What source for the freshest bass strings?

[agplate]

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).

 

[phatduckk]

no clue dude ... ive never run into that problem ... good luck

 

[bigjohnyeti]

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]

That's crazy! I've never had that problem before. When you find out what's going on. let us know.

 

[Freddy-G.]

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]

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.