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agplate

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 5, 2005
Messages
143
As a regular string buyer, It seems that I often get a set with at least one dead, or soon to be dead string in it. This has been true with most brands including EB. I sometimes think it's because I'm ending up getting older strings that have been on the shelf for a while.

What do you suppose the actual shelf life is for strings, and what would be a good source for the newest batch? Any suggestions? This inconsistency is driving me nuts. FWIW, I have good equipment that is properly set up (including MM basses).
 

bigjohnyeti

Member
Joined
Jul 24, 2005
Messages
12
Location
Holbrook,Long Island,NY
I dunno what the shelf life of strings could be,I`ve never had that problem in almost 35 years.
I`ve been buying my strings (stainless steel 5)from webstrings for a coupla years,and at the prices they charge you can afford to change them twice or three times as often,but they last as long as anything else I`ve ever used.
John
 

Bassplyr

Well-known member
Joined
May 18, 2004
Messages
1,058
Location
Central IL
That's crazy! I've never had that problem before. When you find out what's going on. let us know.
 

Freddy-G.

Well-known member
Joined
Apr 1, 2005
Messages
680
Location
Duluth, Georgia
I recently strung my Sterling fretless with D'Addario Chromes, and the strings were packaged in air tight plastic. The label claims that because the strings are sealed against moisture, that they are as fresh as when they left the factory. That's the first time I've seen strings packaged like that, but it sorta makes sense. Especially in areas where there is high humidity.
 

Postal

Member
Joined
Sep 12, 2005
Messages
24
I would imagine the shelf life could be rated in years.
At least in a climate contolled enviornment.

I am one to try different things, many times it is strings.

Have sometimes bought some new sets & they may sit for a few years before I'd get around to them.

In 30 years , there haven't been any dead ones.
That even includes a 'forgotten stash', that was at least 5 years old.
None of those had any deadness. Even I was surprised at how well they lasted.
No special packing on that bunch.

That leaves me wondering what the source is for your sets.
I have seen a few small stores selling older packaged bass sets at $40 & up (list price).
They places don't sell well & some of those old sets just are museum pieces.

By contrast a busy retailer (big & small) , will usually have a current supply.

Humidity may be an issue. Possibly the enviornment where they are stored.

As far as a source of fresh strings - go to the busiest music store in your town.
 
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