Ernie Ball Nickel Wound Short Scale Electric Bass Strings are made from nickel plated steel wrapped around a hex shaped steel core wire. How to change guitar strings: The best way for both round core and hex core guitar strings. Traditional wound acoustic strings are based on a hex –shaped core wire with a single wrap of metal. I actually first became aware of the more traditionally made round core strings around 2010 and used them on my non-locking tuner guitars a great deal!So, what's the difference? For slap players, roundwound hex-core is usually what gets “that sound” more than any other – unless you like an easier-bending string, in which roundwound round-core may better suit you. Nowadays, it is considered a vintage style because the industry standard is a hex core. This core type has less tension when tuned to pitch, and fingers can bend it easier. Flatwound strings also have either a round or hex core. Compared to round core strings, hex strings have a slightly tighter attack and brighter tone. The typical bass string core is made from steel. You don’t have to use those exact gauge measurements, but that’s pretty close if not exactly what you should use for each heavy-core tuning. Hex-Core - Most bass strings have a hex core wire. round core) and they are absolutely fantastic hand made strings. If seeking out something really easy on the fingers, flatwound round-core works great. La Bella Deep Talkin’ Bass. DR Strings Bass Strings, Black Beauties BASS Black Coated Nickel Plated Bass Guitar Strings on Round Core 4.6 out of 5 stars 326. Core: The shape of the wire — hex core and round core. That’s why we use hex cores for our Signatures, Naturals, & Brights lines. For roundwound strings (which most likely came stock on your bass when you bought it), the wrap wire is a round wire, and you can feel the ridges of the individual wraps under your fingers. As a reference, DR’s Hi-Beam, Sunbeam, Flat Wound Legend, and Rare models use a round core. Thin cores are usually (but not always) reserved for more classical instruments, such as upright bass. Only 3 left in stock - order soon. And yes, you will feel the difference between round-core and hex-core. To us, hex cores hold tune better, break less often, and have a clearer, more natural top end. Accurate Core Technology™ was designed to reinforce the core wire and fill in imperfections along the length of the core wire. That day I was at Guitar Center and pressed for time, and the guy behind the counter showed me a pack of “DR Strings”, the “Pure Blues” kind. Many thanks. Lo-rider stainless steel bass strings are round wound and constructed on a hexagonal core. Supposedly the round core strings bend easier and resist breaking better. Supposedly round core is more flexible than hex core. Installing these has a different procedure to prevent this from happening. I tried heavy gauge rounds once and they were pretty uncomfortable for my fretting hand. For example, a brand new set of hex-core strings will have a “bowwwww” sound to them no matter how lightly you pluck, whereas round-core can give some more control over the string’s sound just from plucking strength rather than having adjust a tone knob to get the desired sound you want. Comparing D'Addarios and Newtones, for example, the D's hex-core strings will sound edgier than the round-core Newtones. And on many bass guitars, a hex-core string makes for easier intonation. Everyone has an opinion on the round core vs. hex core debate—and everyone you ask will tell you different reasons for why they like either one. Hex core wire is also stiffer and less flexible than round core wire, all of which can negatively affect the vibration characteristics and tone produced by the wound string. Metal bass players that drop low need a string that can be struck that holds its tuning without wavering out-of-tune constantly. The wrap wire is wrapped around the core, and this wrap wire makes up the key difference between flatwound and roundwound strings. As there are no crimps in the wind, there are no gaps for dirt to rest meaning they can often last longer than an un-coated hex core, retaining a consistent tone right across their lifespan. DRAGON SKIN™ Bass Strings feature DR’s K3™ clear coating on the stainless-steel wrap wire to prevent dirt and perspiration from reaching the round core wire, preventing corrosion. Super Slinky Nickel Wound Short Scale Bass Strings - 40-100 Gauge. $30.95. I have found that when playing long gigs with long sets, my finger tips hurt more on hex cores compared to round cores. That’s why we … This gives the strings consistent performance and intonation according to the materials … He told me that they were 100% nickel strings (not nickel wound), and that they had a “round” core instead of “hex”. Hence we have nickel plated. D'Addario XL ProSteels Singles. Roundwound hex-core definitely does the job here, and for the super-low tuners out there, consider the heavier core string sets if you’re encountering issues with your thickest strings wavering out of tune when striking hard. Love them too. Unlike most electric guitar strings, the pure nickel winding on these Pyramid strings is wound on a round core, not the hex core found on most electric guitar strings. The difference with round vs hex is simply a matter of feel and flexibility. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for DR Strings Bass Strings Fatbeam, Marcus Miller Signature Stainless Steel Round Core Bass 45-105 at Amazon.com. Do note that with round core strings the wound strings needs to be tightened prior to tuning to preserve the stability of the wrap wire. At DR while we use both types of core wire over a wide range of strings, we do manufacture more strings with round cores. Hex cores are able to remain stable at smaller diameters (which is why you'll notice we use hex on the .024 or smaller Boomer gauges). VERITAS ACOUSTIC STRINGS DEMO VERITAS™, we believe is a completely new category of long lasting acoustic strings. But these Round Core/hex core/coated details might be one thing to bare in mind if you've experimented with a few different types already. The former has a brighter and louder sound, while the latter has a more mellow sound. As with anything, it's all personal taste. I've experimented quite a bit with various brands and types over the years. They're a British outfit. A thinner core can make the string feel more pliant, and smoother, softer metal alloys can be used on windings to improve feel. For example, if you really like the current thickness of string you’re using now, but say to yourself, “I really wish this could bend just a little easier,” try a round-core set. Probably the most coveted flatwound string brand during the 1960s and 70’s. String Core. Compared to round core strings, hex strings have a slightly tighter attack and brighter tone. Many players believe that round core strings have a feel easier to play with less tension and have a clearer tone. Comparing a set of Bass Boomers to Round Core Bass Boomers (since the only difference IS the core shape), the hex set has 4% more tension (186.5lb vs 178.7lb on a 45-65-85-105 set). Wound on a round core, Hi-Beams are more flexible and less harshly bright than other stainless steel strings. To importing brands myself like Pyramid or DR which were harder to get hold of (albeit much easier now with some large online retailers stocking them in more recent years). Jazz Flats are wound around a supple core that creates a low-tension feel, a less-choked response, and better intonation than their stiffer competition. That usually results in a string snapping fairly quickly, particularly on the thickest strings. The titanium core wire is round, not hex, and titanium is more flexible than steel, providing a very comfortable playing experience while remaining strong and durable. Carbon steel hex core with stainless steel underlay. Included in this series are 4, 5, and 6-string sets and long, extra-long and short scale sets. Hex core strings are more durable and have consistent intonation. >I was cruising ebay and saw a link to 'Round Core vs Hex Core Guitar > Strings,' which turns out to be by none other than our trusty and > well-beloved Lumpy, and also succinctly explains why TIs sounds the > way they do. Either that, or you may encounter some odd-sounding overtones. Question: are round-core strings less stable regarding tuning? Finally, consider coated strings, which, though primarily designed to aid longevity, keep your strings feeling fresh, smooth and easy to play for longer. The best bass strings … However, we can get them for you. In bass strings, the hex cores are a bit stiffer and are deeper in sound than round cores. Home > Strings and Accessories Listed by Manufacturer > DR Strings > DR Strings Electric Bass Guitar Strings > Long Necks (Tapered) > DR Strings Bass Long Necks Tapered Stainless Steel Hex Core Compression Wound, .030 - .125, TMH6-30 Stainless Steel Round Wounds w/ Hex Core; Stainless Steel Round Wounds w/ Hex Core. Tx, Lumpy. Ernie Ball Stainless Steel Round Wound Singles. Why? (Note: We do carry Dunlop strings, but not the Heavy Core series. However, some manufacturers (DR in particular) often string sets with a round core wire. The GHS Boomers offer nickel-plated steel around a round steel core, which delivers a nice, bright tone. As a reference, all D’Addario bass strings as far as we’re aware have a hex-core. The wound wrap winding can slip on the round core more easier than hex. But then of course the wrap around that core affects the sound as well. In its round form, this is the same wire used for the plain steel strings (high E, B, etc.). Brands. Fans of vintage sound and instrumental music as well as vintage guitar collectors will appreciate the amazing tone of these strings. The effort took over a year, and the result is a "fatter, deeper, smoother" string that satisfied Marcus Miller's demanding standard. Hex core strings have six sides. We then wrap the modified core with the silver-plated copper (silk & steel) or 92/8 phosphor bronze (Silk & Phosphor). So Ive been advised to try Round core strings..most are hex core… I'm going to talk more about The gts.co strings in detail in future blog posts, but I hope this one today helps those that perhaps haven't come across round core strings prior and what makes them different to hex core strings. 80/20 Bronze (aka “gold strings”) – which is preferred over silver-plated copper by some players because of its brightness and projection. Round core construction is more labor intensive than hex core requiring special materials and techniques to get the desired sound results “a silky, silver shimmering tone” with unbelievable tone and sustain. Thicker core strings, which is probably the one you’re more interesting in knowing about, are designed for use with very specific tunings. Not all round core wire is equal. Wound on a round core, Hi-Beams are more flexible and less harshly bright than other stainless steel strings. A lot of string “flop” and buzz happens, and not necessarily the kind you would like. The articulated edges of the core wire create a tighter wrap and allow for higher string tension, resulting in a crisper, more … Thomastik-Infeld IN344 Superalloy Round Wound Hex Core Bass Guitar Strings - Thomastik-Infeld IN344 Superalloy Round Wound Hexcore Bass Guitar Strings are the bass string for today's modern player! Contact us and ask.). Chrome steel wrapped around a nylon core, the U•BASS® Flatwound 4-String Set by Gallistrings enables fast and stable intonation, ... Kala Metal Round Wound U•Bass Strings-from $31.99 MSRP. Round core is as it says on the tin, the central core is completely round in construction meaning the wind evenly wraps around it. Therefore it's very important to think about what set you choose for you & your guitar, as they can affect the playing feel feel & in many players ears, the tone significantly. Strings are a pivotal part of our interaction with an instrument. Yeah, more tension means less give. Strings have always been one of the main details I would continue to experiment with to try and refine the feel of my guitar & longevity too. Once the only choice for steel string guitar players, round core strings eventually transitioned to a hex core design in the late 1960's. But the downsides of hex is that It can gather grime, dust & dirt in the gaps between the core and the wind, meaning the strings can go dead much quicker. The primary advantage of round core construction is that more of the surface area of the core wire is in contact with the winding (in theory, nearly 100%) which means a greater density for a string of the same gauge, vs a hex core string. Fortunately, which to go with for which tuning is fairly easy to figure out. To us, hex cores hold tune better, break less often, and have a clearer, more natural top end. This is not an article about string brand, although some will be mentioned. La Bella Deep Talkin’ Bass. The wound round core strings might sound a tad more piano-like and the wound hex core strings are just a hair brighter, but that's about it. String core. However, most players prefer the reliable quality of hex core strings, which make them a very popular choice. Locking tuners tend not to grip onto the core of a round core string as well as it does with a locking tuner.I'm going to talk more about The gts.co strings in detail in future blog posts, but I hope this one today helps those that perhaps haven't come across round core strings prior and what makes them different to hex core strings.James. A round core string has a vibration when plucked that does not necessarily last as long as hex-core, but for some is more controllable in sound to the ear. The disadvantage of a string using hex-core is that it’s more difficult to bend due to the higher tension of the string, and the high-tension nature can cause pain both for plucking and fret hand. The proprietary K3™ coating, which is applied to all strings in the set, is ultra-hard … No need for coating! Also, as string gauges get thicker, the added stability that the hex core provides makes it ideal to retain clarity and definition on lower strings, specifically the B and F# strings found … These strings have brightness and clarity, but are "pressure wound" to reduce finger noise/fret wear. Round Core Strings - are generally wound by hand to ensure quality and have 100% contact with the core wire making them more dense, providing maximum sustain and a more vintage sound of yesteryear. Round cores offer a fatter, vintage-like tone that is balanced and more flexible. Only 3 left in stock - order soon. Whereas in the past string brands solely utilized pure nickel, for whatever reason it was found that this wasn't viable any more. Nickel-plated is typically “darker”; stainless steel is typically “brighter”. DR Strings Lo-Rider - Stainless Steel Hex Core Bass 45-105 4.7 out of 5 stars 74. Stainless Steel Round Wound Electric Bass String Singles w/ Hex Core from Fret Nation . Included in this series are 4, 5, and 6-string sets and long, extra-long and short scale sets. If the string type you want is “stiff-feeling and bright-sounding”, you’d want a string with a hex-core and stainless steel wrap around it. It's quite a simple one really & refers to the 'core' of the wound string. There are many factors to this, such as acidity of sweat when playing, particularly oily skin etc, we're all human after all huh. Both have a hex core. First & foremost they're what our fingers come in contact with, they're what our pick strikes & what our pickups, well, pick-up! Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. Martin’s Titanium Core strings use true titanium for the core wire of this new breed of strings. As you probably guessed, round-core uses a literal round core. Instead we’re just going to talk about hex-core and round-core, and why it matters when making your string choice. Winding: 36 3/4" Nickel wound strings are made by winding nickel-plated steel wire around a tin-plated, high-carbon steel core wire. round core string has a vibration when plucked that does not necessarily last as long as hex-core, but for some is more controllable in sound to the ear. That's handy for some players, but these coated sets are definitely 'Marmite' as some players are against coated strings, some love them. Up next… 3. This makes it slightly easier to bend and also means that you can go up to a slightly thicker string gauge in round core and have the same feel as a thinner hex core string. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. Who has not gone to .011's cause..its just not right to do on an acoustic. DR Strings Bass Strings, Black Beauties BASS Black Coated Nickel Plated Bass Guitar Strings on Round Core 4.6 out of 5 stars 326. Round core strings have full contact between the wrap wire and the core wire creating a denser string. Im one of those guys that use extra extra light ele guitar strings which always found .012's(light) to be a bit burdensome to do what I usually do. Carbon steel hex core with stainless steel underlay. What are the advantages of thicker core strings? The two basic cores are round and hex. DR Strings Lo-Rider - Stainless Steel Hex Core Bass 45-105 4.7 out of 5 stars 74. Curt Mangan 45-105 Nickel Wound Bass StringsGauges: 45-65-85-105Total Length 53 inches. round core vs hex core strings Guitar strings were first made with round cores, though for manufacturing efficiency and string stability, hex cores were then adopted. Rotosound Swing Bass 66 (Steel) Swing Bass 66 are available in either nickel or stainless steel varieties, the stainless steel naturally being the brighter. Locking tuners tend not to grip onto the core of a round core string as well as it does with a locking tuner. For flatwound stri… A quick overview covering the difference in feel and sound of round core and hex core guitar strings. Diagram sourced from Google - musicbytodd.com/. Pyramid round core strings represent a return to the way strings were made in the '50s and '60s, with audibly enhanced tone and sustain. DaveAceofBass, Trabeenand mcnachlike this. Who has not gone to .011's cause..its just not right to do on an acoustic. Designed to fit 30.5" scale basses, the string length is 48" with a taper at 32.5". Some strings have thin cores and thick wraps, while others have thick cores and thin wraps. Please note: comments must be approved before they are published. A 45-105 set would be for D, 55-155 would be for C and a 55-120 would be for B. Windings go around the core to create larger, wound strings. Diagram sourced from Google - musicbytodd.com/Most brands offer what's known as hex core strings, these are an industry standard really due to it's ease of mass production & lower manufacturing costs. We start with a round core wire and wrap it first with a soft material. Because the total circumference of a round core comes into contact with the wrap, round core strings are denser and more flexible—which can make them easy to bend, but more susceptible to breakage and tuning issues. I also use Newtone Electric Masters (i.e. Im one of those guys that use extra extra light ele guitar strings which always found .012's(light) to be a bit burdensome to do what I usually do. They provide more depth of tone, and are a bit stiffer than hi-beams. Mainly because the six edges of the core “bite” into the surrounding wrap. Pure nickel wrap on a round tin-plated, high carbon steel core. If you like a string with a lot of “pop”, “twang” or sound “piano-like”, hex-core is a good choice. However, round core strings need larger core wire diameters to equal the same amount of stability and strength as hex. What happens if you use a lighter heavy-core set dropped down to B? They offer a mellower sound with more sustain, but they can fall out of tune more easily. Winding: 36 3/4" Nickel wound strings are made by winding nickel-plated steel wire around a tin-plated, high-carbon steel core … Compared to round core strings, hex strings have a slightly tighter attack and brighter tone. Martin’s Titanium Core strings use true titanium for the core wire of this new breed of strings. $31.99 MSRP. Hex Core Strings - are currently the industry standard because they can be precisely wound to ensure tight core tension. Pyramid round core strings represent a return to the way strings were made in the '50s and '60s, with audibly enhanced tone and sustain. We have many different types of 4 and 5 string bass guitar strings for different tastes, preferences and styles of playing. The core is the center of the string. This is where things can get confusing, but we’ll try to explain this as best we can. If you wanted “looser-feeling and dark-sounding”, you’d want a string with a round-core and nickel-plated wrap around it. Probably the most coveted flatwound string brand during the 1960s and 70’s. Strings numbered .10 or .11 are referred to as ‘mediums,’ producing sound between these two extremes. I read on the DR website that their round core Pure Blue nickel strings were made using a thicker core wire. The titanium core wire is round, not hex, and titanium is more flexible than steel, providing a very comfortable playing experience while remaining strong and durable. A round core bass string is brighter, while still remaining more flexible. KA-BASS-4. For finger pluckers, roundwound round-core is a good choice. Round core: Round core strings feature a round core wire. Love 'em. Round core construction is more labor intensive than hex core requiring special materials and techniques to get the desired sound results “a silky, silver shimmering tone” with unbelievable tone and sustain. There is a U.S. distributor. Superior core wire is recognized as the foundation for rich tone, accuracy of intonation, and durability. Namely, drop D and D standard, drop C and C standard and drop B and B standard. Practically all bass strings are based around two components: a core wire and a wrap wire. You can see this in the diagram above. 11-14-18-28w-38-48 These strings are as "vintage" as you can get. La Bella is famous for its deep tone and solid fundamental, and these strings deliver the goods. Round-core strings produce a warm tone without as much edge as hex-core strings. Click this link! Great article, very informative. Bass players who are into slapping, popping and tapping will love the high end and depth of lo-rider. It's harder to make, usually meaning to get the best result they need to be wound by hand. You may have to adjust your playing style slightly, but if you’re looking for easier bends without changing string thickness, try round-core. What happens if you use a really thick heavy-core set in standard E? Round core strings will have greater flexibility and provide the true “vintage” tone. Hex-core is literally a hexagonal core shape, usually resulting in a stiffer overall tension when the string is tuned to pitch. A related topic that gets talked about a lot is round core vs. hex core. Hex core has a hex shaped central wire, it has 6 edges and as the wire is wound around the core, it crimps the wire on those edges. Newtone also uses a round core. They also need something that really cuts through a mix. La Bella is famous for its deep tone and solid fundamental, and these strings deliver the goods. Menu. Hex core wire is also stiffer and less flexible than round core wire, all of which can negatively affect the vibration characteristics and tone produced by the wound string. Also, as string gauges get thicker, the added stability that the hex core provides makes it ideal to retain clarity and definition on lower strings, specifically the B and F# strings found in our 7 String Boomers and 8 String Boomers . High-carbon steel that is either hex-shaped or round on which the wrap wire is applied during the winding process. You can choose from coated or uncoated, nickel flat wound, round wound, half rounds, phosphor bronze, stainless steel and more. $30.95. For the same wound string gauge a string with a round core would be expected to have lower tension than a hex core string (as you note).