Question about flats ...

**OldSchool Noob** · 09-03-2010, 09:05 AM

Originally Posted by Powman

...You could make the argument that the Sterling is more aggressive sounding therefore keep the rounds on the Sterling. Conversely, the Stingray has a smoother tone. Therefore try the flats on the Ray. Now you have 2 quite different sounding instruments ...

This was pretty much what I thought going in but wasn't sure. Making a final decision is further complicated by the fact that the Sterling is "incoming" right now so I don't have it.

I have a set of EBMM 5 String flats that I may just throw on the Ray and see how it sounds. If I like it, when my Sterling gets here, I'll just leave the rounds in place and be done with it.

Jack: Just so you know, my Bongo is wearing a set of <gasp> DR Black Beauties. I tried these based on Ed Friedland's rave review and he was right. For this bass, these look great, FEEL great and sound killer!

**Manfloozy** · 09-03-2010, 11:32 AM

Just FYI, the 2810 5-string set are Group IIIs with a low B .130

**OldSchool Noob** · 09-03-2010, 04:28 PM

Originally Posted by Manfloozy

Just FYI, the 2810 5-string set are Group IIIs with a low B .130

That's exactly what I have sitting here on my desk.

**Steamthief** · 09-03-2010, 06:00 PM

Seeing as the Group III are gauged 45-100, how do they compare tension-wise with a set of nickel Slinkys in the same gauge? All this talk of flats has me looking over at my 30th........hmmmmmm.........

**Manfloozy** · 09-04-2010, 05:44 PM

Originally Posted by Steamthief

Seeing as the Group III are gauged 45-100, how do they compare tension-wise with a set of nickel Slinkys in the same gauge? All this talk of flats has me looking over at my 30th........hmmmmmm.........

IMO the group III flats are about the same as regular slinks, maybe a bit stiffer... But I'll tell you what, I heard group IIIs today on ProjectApollos 30th and it was the best tone I think I have EVER heard. Really really perfect. Step away from the keyboard and slap 'em on NOW kind of perfect.

**Steamthief** · 09-04-2010, 07:18 PM

Thanks for sharing, Matt, it sounds like they would suit me perfectly. I will have to get a set.

**kylierider** · 09-06-2010, 04:03 PM

Originally Posted by Manfloozy

IMO the group III flats are about the same as regular slinks, maybe a bit stiffer... But I'll tell you what, I heard group IIIs today on ProjectApollos 30th and it was the best tone I think I have EVER heard. Really really perfect. Step away from the keyboard and slap 'em on NOW kind of perfect.

I have Group III flats on both my Rays. They both sound good but that fretless 30th is just the WOW bass wearing Group III's. It seems smoother than my other Ray. Less harsh with a darker tone while still maintaining the in your face MM tone if you want.