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Help! Flatwound strings for my bongo...

ivbenaplayin

ivbenaplayin

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 14, 2009
Messages
688
Hello fellow knuckleheads...
I'm looking to try a set of flatwound strings on my bongo 4HH since i've read that it should be done, but i've never tried them before... my question is this: should the strings be approximately the same gauge, or should they be heavier or lighter in gauge than the stock super slinkys that are being replaced? Any input would be greatly appreciated... :confused: thanks
 
I've gone up and down a few sizes either way with no ill effects other than having to adjust the truss rod just a bit, which is no biggie at all.
 
bovinehost said:
I've gone up and down a few sizes either way with no ill effects other than having to adjust the truss rod just a bit, which is no biggie at all.
Click to expand...

No ill effects, but are there advantages in tone/overall sound quality in using heavier gauge strings? (thanks for the input by the way...)
 
It would effect string tension reather than a BIG change in tone.
 
Last edited:
If you've not played flats much before, you'll find heavier gauge flats very stiff. I find that medium and lighter gauge flats are more responsive for finger style playing. Heavy gauge might work fine for a pick player though.
 
I believe the proper term to use now for Bongo owners is "Bongoheads" per another thread of Forumites pictured with their Bongo over their head......

What do you think Jack, can we adopt the Bongohead name or should we continue in the tradition of Sterlings's "Knuckleheads"?

Your call..........OMB
 
ivbenaplayin said:
No ill effects, but are there advantages in tone/overall sound quality in using heavier gauge strings? (thanks for the input by the way...)
Click to expand...

I've found the heavier the string the more the bass is emphasized and the treble deemphasized. visa versa for lighter strings

This is one reason I like medium gauge strings - they are often a good balance between the two
 
Bongoloid all the way!

My favs are group 3 btw, but i only tried grp 3 and 2 yet.
 
i've just had to put rounds back on the bongo (purely through an urgent change issue) & I can't believe how much I miss the flats....

I go for group 2 as they're closest to what I normally play on rounds... no other logic required for me.
 
one thing is for sure.. group 2 are waaay softer than rs77 rotos ;)

and the oohmff you get.. the oohmff from a flatbongo.. nuthn quite like it :D

MrM
 
Thanks to all for the input... I think i'll just get a couple different sets to try and go from there, "nothing ventured, nothing gained..." right?!
 
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