string install question

[Calvin Marks]

With Pirastro strings, think original flexocore or flat-chrome - they come with these white felt rings that are already threaded through the string and touching the "balls". Do you install these? I always take them off because I was told they "mute" the sound of the strings. Perhaps with a gut-core string like Oliv it would be good to have the white felt on?

Thanks.

[Ken Smith]

Originally Posted by Calvin Marks

With Pirastro strings, think original flexocore or flat-chrome - they come with these white felt rings that are already threaded through the string and touching the "balls". Do you install these? I always take them off because I was told they "mute" the sound of the strings. Perhaps with a gut-core string like Oliv it would be good to have the white felt on?

Thanks.

I think not even dog ears could hear that difference. This is the after length under the bridge, under the tailpiece under the tailpiece saddle. Mutes the sound? When you hold the bass, YOU mute the sound. The little Felt at the ball? There is probably more dust, dirt and grease mass in and on your bass than the size of those little pieces that if anything, protect your tailpiece from wear over time.

If those little felt pieces mute your bass, then you need a better bass.

[Calvin Marks]

Originally Posted by Ken Smith

If those little felt pieces mute your bass, then you need a better bass.

I was waiting for a comment like that, why am I not surprised?

[Ken Smith]

Originally Posted by Calvin Marks

I was waiting for a comment like that, why am I not surprised?

You asked!.. That's why you weren't surprised.. Any more trick questions up your sleeve?

[Calvin Marks]

Well, I don't know if the felt pieces have muted my bass, because I never install them, on any bass. I was just curious if you're supposed to install them or not - like if it's supposed to protect the balls of the strings or not.

[Ken Smith]

Originally Posted by Calvin Marks

Well, I don't know if the felt pieces have muted my bass, because I never install them, on any bass. I was just curious if you're supposed to install them or not - like if it's supposed to protect the balls of the strings or not.

Why do you think they put them there?