[Heather Kulaga]

Thanks so much, Tim. I've never tried another string on this bass - the medium taper cores were recommended to me, and I'm happy to know that I should stick with them.

Thanks for your thoughts concerning the fretboard-wear also (mine is ebony) -- I've read differing opinions, so I'm glad to hear a veteran KS-player's view.

I was surprised at what I heard slapping/popping on the fretless too - it was a distinctive sound, much different than on my fretted 6. I think it was just easier to do on a 4 string also, so maybe my sound improved from that aspect. My band-mates all noticed and said, "yeah! do that!" but I was really hesitant to continue.

Any other opinions?