Help! Flatwound strings for my bongo...

[ivbenaplayin]

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... thanks

 

[Basspro]

Im sure Jack will be along anytime now. I'm still waiting to play a Bongo!

 

[bovinehost]

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.

 

[oddjob]

... and the Lord Bongo, Master of Flasts has spoken

 

[ivbenaplayin]

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.

No ill effects, but are there advantages in tone/overall sound quality in using heavier gauge strings? (thanks for the input by the way...)

 

[Basspro]

It would effect string tension reather than a BIG change in tone.

 

[Aussie Mark]

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.

 

[Ole Man Blues]

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

 

[bovinehost]

I've always thought of us as Bongoloids.

 

[Basspro]

I've always thought of us as Bongoloids.

I like Bongoloids, but it looks like Bongoheads is sticking.

 

[shakinbacon]

No ill effects, but are there advantages in tone/overall sound quality in using heavier gauge strings? (thanks for the input by the way...)

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

 

[djaxup]

Bongoloid all the way!

My favs are group 3 btw, but i only tried grp 3 and 2 yet.

 

[mammoth]

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.

 

[MrMusashi]

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

MrM

 

[JohnnyBoy]

Try Group III, 45-100 flatwound. I replaced a heavier set with these and find them better for me. I don't use a pick.

 

[ivbenaplayin]

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?!