Dull Sounding String

[Bassman324]

I just got some Regular Slinky Bass Strings yesterday, installed them on my Fender Precision Bass. The three higher strings sounded perfect and bright and clean like they're supposed to, but the E string sounded muddy and dull. I assumed this was because the string was wound overlapping itself on the tuning post. I eliminated this by trimming the length of the string. However, that didn't get me anywhere. This has happened to me in the past and I never have figured out why this happens.

 

[Bassman324]

anyone there?

 

[bassmaniac]

Have you wrapped the string properly around the post? The last winding ( before the string goes through the nut ) should be at the bottom of the post. Also check how the string went through the bridge and is it resting in the saddle properly. Another thing to check, is make sure your pickup height is not too high or low under the E string.

 

[bassdude63]

Dull String

Contact the folks at EB. I'm sure they'll send you a replacement string. I had the same problem many years back with an E string from a set of D'Addario's. They had me send back the sets I bought and sent me replacement sets. I've also had this problem with an E string on a set of GHS bass boomers. I switched to EB bass strings, I have'nt had this problem with EB strings, but it happens. I own several different brands of basses, I still use Boomers on all of my basses except my Musicman basses. I figured I'd use the strings designed for my EB instruments. I generally cut the length of my strings so they'll make 2 wraps around each tuning post. I also will boil a set when they start getting dull sounding. After that 1 boiling, I change them and tease my cat with the old G string. Doing the obvious things like wiping them down after playing helps also. Sometimes after I've boiled the strings, I'll wipe them down with Brut aftershave lotion(a trick Billy Sheehan does) before putting back on my bass. I hope these tips will be of some help. Best Wishes, D.M.