We compared six different gauges for bass strings (Ernie Ball Slinkys). Do they have a unique sound? Do string gauges make a difference at all? Decide for yourself and let us know what you think!
I can really only tell a difference when going between extra and power slinky. Lighter gauge is more airy and clear, heavier is a little more wooly. It's very subtle though and absolutely no one other than an experienced bass player could ever tell the difference. String gauge to me is more about feel and tuning, pick the gauge that gives you the tension you feel comfortable with in the tuning you use.
Interesting comparison. The thinner gauge sound clearer but less warmer, maybe, than the thicker one. I will go for the medium/standard set of 45-105 to my playing. Thank you for this great comparison.
It's cool that I wanted to see this comparison and it only came out a few days ago. I have a shorter scale bass but I typically play thinner strings on regular guitar for the 'feel'. All of these sound good, I think in general, thinner strings loose some of their beefier sound, but I kind of think EQ can fix most of what is lost. I like the definition of the note on thinner strings and also they're easier to play for the most part. I think the Super Slinky sounds very good.
I absolutly love that "bounce" of 95's set. They sound really cool at slap and high strings intro, pretty well at fingerstyle and a little bit thin at drop-D and hammer-pull E-string. Personally, I use nickel 100's, playing mostly in EADG tuning.
It's too bad EB doesn't make a 45-110 set. I play a lot of drop D and use the whole neck. 110 gives the tight punch needed at the bottom. 45 is great for hammer-ons, bends & chords. The 55 g-string that comes with the 110 set is just too heavy for my needs.
Thinner strings sound more articulate. The note transients are also more pronounced. They seem to lack a bit of low end though. To me articulation is everythying so I go with 40-95s (but Elixirs).
Yeah,…seems that i best stick with my choice of…105 ~45 EB Slinky set!!..although I NOW have an interest in the EB Slimky 105~50 gauge as well!! 😅Great that this was done!! b(‘_
