Quote:
Originally Posted by Eddue Johnson
After a long process to find the right strings for my Phretzner bass I am very happy with my choice of Thomastik Dominants, tuned down a whole step with higher than normal string height. I play a mixture of acoustic versions of R&B, country, easy listening , rock and pop standards from the 1930's-90's in my current gig as half a duo with a singer guitarist.
I recently got a great deal on a set of Spirocore Starks and want to put them on a different bass for a different sound, a decent imported carved 3/4 size with a thick top. I want to be able to play without amplification on some gigs, with a piano and vocals, possibly a horn or guitar. But it will be used for not just playing jazz but want to do a lot more bowing in the near future.
Even though I am not an orchestra bassist I thought this might be the best place to inquire about using Spiro Starks as an arco string. This set will also be tuned down a whole step, not the norm I know but it works well for me.
So, anyone here have any experience bowing a bass with a full set of Spiro starks or other heavy gauge string. I have a lot of work to do when it comes to bowing so just looking for some insight. It seems like playing softer might be more difficult than louder playing and not sure how easy it will be to get and control a good arco sound with the heavier gauge.
When it comes to heavy bass arco strings, especially Spiro Starks, what things should I consider. And how long does it take for new Starks to settle in.
|
Any Stark string requires more pressure with the bow. The Original Flexocor(dark blue) are at least as heavy if not more as the Flex 92 Starks(dark red). Years ago I bowed on regular Spiros. It was ok from bowing but it depended on the bass. If they sound bright or scratchy on your bass, then it's not for that bass, period. I can only Imagine that Stark Spiro reds will be even harder to Bow on. I don't know anyone who uses them, the Starks I mean. Perhaps there are some European players that do. I think you can add two other strings that are on the heavy side. They bow well but sound depends again on the individual bass. They are the Belcanto's and the Original Flat Chromes. The Bel's have a bigger E/C extension string than the regula E is or was. I haven't tried the regular set in over a year. Also, why are you tuning down a step?