Question Big al string suggestions

[lefenton]

Hey Big Al Users,
I have been using my BA4 SSS endlessly since I picked it up just over a month ago.

I have been using the strings with which it came which are obviously Ernie Balls. Does anyone know what type of EB string they come equipped with from the factory?

This is honestly the first set of EBs I've ever played and I must say I really like the feel and sound.

All my other (F*#&%r)basses are equipped with DR High Beams or Lo-Riders, but I must say, I don't miss these on my Big Al.

Has anyone else tried using any different strings on this bass? I would love to hear your impressions and preferences.

Cheers,
Lefenton

PS- The Big Al is killer!!!

 

[mynan]

Welcome. The BA4 comes with Super Slinkies.

Big Al | Basses | Instruments

 

[Grand Wazoo]

#2834 in the purple/fuchsia bag as in this pict

 

[Grand Wazoo]

Has anyone else tried using any different strings on this bass? I would love to hear your impressions and preferences.

I wouldn't dare use other strings, not even other gauge withing EB. Those are perfect.

PS- The Big Al is killer!!!

Wait til u try a 5 strings BA5SSS

 

[lefenton]

I wouldn't dare use other strings, not even other gauge withing EB. Those are perfect.



Wait til u try a 5 strings BA5SSS

I agree with you GW that the super slinkys are perfect. I haven't even missed the DRs one bit on this bass, the feel and attack are perfect with the EBs. I find them very gentle on my fingers too which is nice as I never use pics. I guess if it ain't broke, don't fix it...Super Slinkys it shall be from here on out. Great string!!!

What's their life span like from anyone's experience? I'm playing this at least 4 nights a week if that helps in estimating.

BTW- GW I am dying for a BA5 to come through town so I can try it out and hopefully swap out one of my F*$#@rs for it...although I did play a nice LE2008 SR5 that was pretty sweet.

 

[Grand Wazoo]

I agree with you GW that the super slinkys are perfect. I haven't even missed the DRs one bit on this bass, the feel and attack are perfect with the EBs. I find them very gentle on my fingers too which is nice as I never use pics. I guess if it ain't broke, don't fix it...Super Slinkys it shall be from here on out. Great string!!!

What's their life span like from anyone's experience? I'm playing this at least 4 nights a week if that helps in estimating.

BTW- GW I am dying for a BA5 to come through town so I can try it out and hopefully swap out one of my F*$#@rs for it...although I did play a nice LE2008 SR5 that was pretty sweet.

Life span on my strings, bear in mind I am a bloke who never have sweat on my hands, even when its hot, is about 3-4 months. I could keep them longer but once they are beaten, with fret marks and loss of roundness (ovalization) they are difficult to keep in pitch so I replace them.

 

[bassmonkeee]

I've got a set of TI Jazz Rounds on my fretless Big Al right now. I like the singing quality I get with them. But, it is just a matter of time before I put some EB Flats on there. After playing my FrankenBongo 5HSp with them, I remember why I fell in love with them in the first place.

Use the strings you like. The bass will not be any less awesome.

 

[lefenton]

I've got a set of TI Jazz Rounds on my fretless Big Al right now. I like the singing quality I get with them. But, it is just a matter of time before I put some EB Flats on there. After playing my FrankenBongo 5HSp with them, I remember why I fell in love with them in the first place.

Use the strings you like. The bass will not be any less awesome.

Saw the pics of the Franken Bongo...very interesting.

As for using the strings I like, I have always used DRs as they felt the best, and got me that bite I was after, that is until I bought my Big Al and tried the Super Slinkys. I'm sure the fanastic electronics have something to do with the sound, but as for the feel, I'm not missing the DRs or their price tag one bit. I sense a full conversion.

 

[five7]

Give the coated strings a try. They will last longer than any other type of strings. I am like everyone else, once you go Ernie Ball strings you don't want to use any other string.

 

[shakinbacon]

Give the coated strings a try. They will last longer than any other type of strings. I am like everyone else, once you go Ernie Ball strings you don't want to use any other string.

+1 see my sig

 

[lefenton]

Give the coated strings a try. They will last longer than any other type of strings. I am like everyone else, once you go Ernie Ball strings you don't want to use any other string.

Coated super slinkys??!!!?? My mind has just been blown...

I forgot to add that I experimented with Elixir's for a while and went back to the DR because they lacked some of the bite and attack I was accustomed too. Great tone on certain levels but a bit too mellow for my tastes at times. Really depends on what bass I had 'em on.

But to be able to get the super slinky sound with the longevity of a coated string may be just what I'm after. Thanks for the insight fellas. Greatly appreciated. I am going to have to check those coated ones out.

BTW shakinbacon that is a good review!

 

[danny-79]

+1 more vote for the Coated Slinkys, appart from lasting a bit longer they feel nice to, double bonus

 

[Aussie Mark]

Use the strings you like. The bass will not be any less awesome.

This.

 

[DTG]

I got a promo deal where I got free strings from a big player in the strings department I just had to promote them when I was out gigging! I used them for a while( sorry bp)but they diddnt play as well diddnt feel as tight and diddnt last as long as my slinkys.

Its better to pay for good stings then get bad strings for free. I will never play another string again.

 

[phatduckk]

Considering the other brands you've tried I'd suggest giving the Stainless Steel Super Slinkys a shot. I play those and the Stainless Hybrid Slinkys and they're awesome (and cost less than other brands' stainless string)