Your fretless string of choice?

[Bob Faulkner]

I use Smith Compressors.. I've also been known to use Smith slicks (currently on my Smith fretless). I'm moving to the Compressors exclusively though.. You get most of the round wound zing, but they're much easier on the fingerboard.

Here's my take on string types (focusing on Smiths)

Slicks give you a little more round wound zing than flats, and virtually no fingerboard wear.

Compressors give you almost as much zing as round wounds, and less fingerboard wear, but they do still wear more than slicks.

Rounds give you the best zing, but the most fingerboard wear.


As far as finger/playing comfort:

Slicks barely exhibit any finger wear. Slides are smoother than rounds, but your fingers can tend to "stick" to the slick metal surface..

Compressors are harder on the fingers than slicks, but no where near as rough as Rounds. Slides are generally smooth on these.

Rounds are hardest on the fingers, slides can be like rubbing sand paper..