Kala U-Bass Flatwound vs. Roundwound vs. Rubber Strings Comparison
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 มิ.ย. 2024
- This video compares and contrasts Round Wound, Flat Wound, and Rubber (technically polyurethane) strings for the Kala U-Bass. First is a demo of all three strings back to back, then I compare and contrast them based on: string tension, slide-ability, tone, string noise, price difference, and I provide some alternative strings.
For Skype Lessons (U-Bass, Upright Bass, Bass Guitar, and Ukulele): www.stephencoxmusic.com/skype
To find out more about each string and where to buy them:
Aquila Thunderguts: www.stringsandbeyond.com/aq68...
Galli/Kala Flat Wounds: amzn.to/417NuSN
Kala Round Wounds: amzn.to/2NXjmpZ
Galli Nylon Round Wounds: www.gallistrings.com/en/strin...
Kala Pahoehoes:amzn.to/34Euqyc
Aquila Thunder Reds: amzn.to/2NXjqpJ
For the U-Basses:
Kala Exotic Mahogany: amzn.to/2NXjSnV
Kala Journeyman: amzn.to/31esrP4
Kala Wanderer: amzn.to/305uh3t
*All of the Amazon links above are affiliate links. This means that buying through these links supports the channel.
To support the channel through Patreon: / stephencoxbass
00:00 Intro
0:27 Plugged In "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
0:35 Plugged In "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
0:43 Plugged In "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
0:51 Plugged In 2 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
1:02 Plugged In 2 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
1:12 Plugged In 2 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
1:22 Plugged In 3 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
1:32 Plugged In 3 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
1:43 Plugged In 3 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
1:53 Plugged In 4 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
2:00 Plugged In 4 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
2:06 Plugged In 4 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
2:13 Plugged In 5 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
2:16 Plugged In 5 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
2:20 Plugged In 5 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
2:24 Plugged In 6 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
2:38 Plugged In 6 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
2:49 Plugged In 6 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
2:58 Testing them Acousticly (Unplugged)
3:00 Unplugged "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
3:08 Unplugged "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
3:15 Unplugged "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
3:22 Unplugged 2 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
3:29 Unplugged 2 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
3:35 Unplugged 2 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
3:41 Unplugged 3 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
3:44 Unplugged 3 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
3:47 Unplugged 3 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
3:51 Unplugged 4 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
3:55 Unplugged 4 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
4:02 Unplugged 4 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
4:07 Talking about Differences between the Strings
4:12 String Tension "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
4:34 String Tension "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
4:54 String Tension "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
5:13 Sliding "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
5:41 Sliding "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
6:05 Sliding "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
6:49 Tone
7:42 String Noise "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
8:27 String Noise "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
8:48 String Noise "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
9:37 Pricing
10:22 Alternatives - Galli Round Wounds, Kala Pahoehoes, Aquila Thunder Reds
11:20 Outro - เพลง
Thank you for this second great review.
As an act of appreciation i made timestamps for you, feel free to use them (and/or adapt them)
00:00 Intro
0:27 Plugged In "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
0:35 Plugged In "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
0:43 Plugged In "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
0:51 Plugged In 2 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
1:02 Plugged In 2 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
1:12 Plugged In 2 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
1:22 Plugged In 3 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
1:32 Plugged In 3 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
1:43 Plugged In 3 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
1:53 Plugged In 4 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
2:00 Plugged In 4 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
2:06 Plugged In 4 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
2:13 Plugged In 5 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
2:16 Plugged In 5 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
2:20 Plugged In 5 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
2:24 Plugged In 6 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
2:38 Plugged In 6 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated Round Wounds
2:49 Plugged In 6 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
2:58 Testing them Acousticly (Unplugged)
3:00 Unplugged "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
3:08 Unplugged "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
3:15 Unplugged "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
3:22 Unplugged 2 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
3:29 Unplugged 2 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
3:35 Unplugged 2 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
3:41 Unplugged 3 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
3:44 Unplugged 3 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
3:47 Unplugged 3 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
3:51 Unplugged 4 "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
3:55 Unplugged 4 "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
4:02 Unplugged 4 "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
4:07 Talking about Differences between the Strings
4:12 String Tension "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
4:34 String Tension "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
4:54 String Tension "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
5:13 Sliding "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
5:41 Sliding "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
6:05 Sliding "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
6:49 Tone
7:42 String Noise "Rubber Strings" (Polyurethane) - Aquila Thunderguts
8:27 String Noise "Metal Round Wound Strings" - Kala Silver Plated
8:48 String Noise "Flat Wound Strings" - Kala/Galli Strings
9:37 Pricing
10:22 Alternatives - Galli Round Wounds, Kala Pahoehoes, Aquila Thunder Reds
11:20 Outro
Thank you so much! That was very kind of you!
I just pinned your comment to the top so that others can find it easily while watching. Thank you, and I'm glad you enjoyed the review.
@@stephencoxbass you should try copying it to the bottom of your description, this way you get video annotations for each part
@@Sonstwer Thank you, I appreciate you teaching me how to do that! Cheers!
It would be helpful to further describe what the different comparisons are, i.e, I was looking for the slapping comparison again, but had to end up watching the video again to find it (no great loss!). Thanks.
For such a niche community like the U-Bass one, you make a surprising amount of quality and informative content. As someone who is looking to start, you answered so many of my basic questions that I thought would be impossible to find. Keep up the great work man.
Thank you! I'm trying...because I had a lot of the same questions before finding the answers!
@@stephencoxbass I'm an electronic player, and I pretty much put my own basses together, so I've had to take my fair share of blind jumps and hope that things work. Channels like yours help people like me make the jump without the fear of things not working out.
Agree, this seems to be THE spot to learn U-Bass, and the only reason that I feel I can even try in the first place. Really appreciate the channel 👍🏻
@@chaoticcollagen794 Thank you so much!
@@EnforcerX I'm glad I can help! Cheers!
you can really tell the time and effort you put into your videos and that you really care about giving us fair standpoints. thanks man
Thank you, Henry! I greatly appreciate the time you and everyone takes to watch my videos.
@@stephencoxbass well I just bought the standard mahogany ubass stay comes with the rubber strings. I really like how the flatwounds sound and was wondering would it be a bad idea to put them on that ubass? I’m just worried it could be harmful to the pickup or fretboard since it was intended originally for the rubber strings.
Now this is what I call informative content. Thank you!
Glad I could help! Thanks for watching!
Thunder reds are high-tech. Formerly the only way to make a string deeper was to increase the diameter but these strings have in increased density by adding copper to the formula. They have a much more full sound, and are not sticky so they have less finger noise.
I'll have to try them out sometime soon!
@kenstephanie8445, the three factors in string pitch are diameter, mass, and tension. Change any of those and you change the pitch.
Change any two or all three, and that math you said you’d never use after high school comes into play!
I definitely liked the sound of the flats best. If I ever get a U-Bass (or any copy thereof), flats will be going on it.
They've been a lot of fun so far! Totally worth the price in my opinion!
Awesome comparison. Thanks for posting. It's really helpful to hear the difference
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
Very thorough and comprehensive. Thanks for answering every question I had.
You're very welcome! Thanks for watching!
Awesome comparison video thanks, and thank you for all your Ubass vids. Great work and a great talent you have! Cheers!
Thank you so much! Cheers!
Fantastic review. I very much appreciate the consistently carried-out technical-factors demonstrations (exactly the kind of thing I do when visiting a guitar shop). And informative comments too.
Thank you! I'm glad I could give an in depth review. Cheers!
great review thanks for including the acoustic recordings
Thanks for watching!
This was really instructive, great work! I had my rubber ones, and it has been kind of difficult find them, I wanted to know about the other options that I was seeing out there and this was the perfect video. I still love the upright bass sound from my Kala, so I just bought those again after have watched your video. But now I know about the other ones. Thanks!
I'm glad I could help! Thanks for watching!
Thank you for the effort and the time you have taken for this video! I like the sound of the flatwounds best!
Thanks for watching the video! I'm glad you got some value out of it!
Excellent video, very comprehensive and complete comparison!!!
Thanks, and thank you for watching!
This is a great and very informative video, you should totally have more subscribers!
Thank you! I think this channel will grow as more people get U-Basses :)
Thanks for the very analytical comparison. Finally someone that knows how to explain differences.
You're welcome. Thanks for watching!
I saw someone asked about "is it possible to change from Roundwound to Rubber Strings" then I have the same question, so I asked Kala's support, their answer is - "The only issue would be the size of the nut and the holes in the bridge. The rubber strings are larger and may need both the nut widened and the bridge holes drilled out. The neck can handle the tension of either but it may need truss rod adjustments." So I am just posting here and I hope this information is useful :)
It's very accurate info :) I haven't had to widen the holes on any of mine, but the grooves in the nut did need to be widened for the flat wounds. Thanks for watching!
Thanks! I came searching the comments for info about this because I ordered rubber strings and the luthier said he couldn’t fit them… which had me perplexed as to why Kala would sell strings that didn’t fit.
Flats sound great, no wonder they're more expensive. would like to see a review of the nylon wounds. Which is the perfect travel /camping/ beach bass???
If you're jamming with people, you at least want metal strings to project some. If not, any U-Bass should do fine.
Thank you! Best string review I’ve ever heard! I am a round wound fan on my electric basses as they are bright and punchy but on a Ubass, the flat wound are almost as bright and punchy but seem a little smoother.
Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the review!
Thank you so much for this extensive discussion on the difference between these 3 types of strings. I just ordered my Aquila Thunderguts and am very excited to try them out.
You’re welcome! What strings did you have initially? Thanks for watching!
@@stephencoxbass
My micro bass had those bronze round wound acoustic bass strings strung from the shop. It's so hard to find a replacement set. However, when I tried the Aquilas, I discovered that the slats of my string pokes were too small and could accommodate the very thick E string. Oh well.
Many thanks for the comparison. It's really helped me decide to stick (no pun intended) with the polyurethane strings originally fitted to my Laka ukulele bass, as they really are best for the upright bass tone I bought it for.
I'm glad I could help you stick to your strings! 😂
I've got the striped ebony with round wound strings on the way, but I think flat wound will be my next purchase. Thanks for making informative videos, your channel helped me decide to purchase a u-bass to learn on.
You're welcome!
I removed roundwounds from every actual bass I have and went for flatwounds, but now I'll be putting them on my rubber-stringed ubass.
Because I crave that volume.
Great review. No story telling-bullshit upfront but an overview was given first and then you came up with some playable basslines that are then covered on each version of strings so that actual reproducable comparison was achieved.
Thanks. Very helpful! If every review on youtube was so straight forward. Billions of GB on harddrives and a lot of time would have been saved. Best Regards
Thank you! I'm glad it was helpful!
I love this video Stephen, thank you. I like the Countryman bass body because of the jazz vibe of the f holes but I think I'd like the rubber strings the most because of the closer proximity to an upright bass sound.
Some people like the Journeyman that came with the rubber strings best. Thanks for watching, Andy!
very informative, very clear explanation. thank you
Thank you! I'm glad it was helpful!
Really helpful, thanks. I have the black Aquila strings on the U-Bass I bought second- hand . I'm looking to replace them and this video has helped me know what is available and how the different strings sound.
I'm glad I could help! Thanks for watching!
Excellent, informative video. Liked and Subscribed.
Thanks for watching!
Nice review.
Have seen another vid showing the thunder reds and they sounded great.
Thank you! I still need to try those and the thunder browns. Thanks for watching!
Thunderguts for me! Awesome video. Super helpful
I keep hearing good things about the Thunder reds. Have you tried those? Thanks for watching!
Great comparison!
Thank you, Adrián!
I have the rubber strings on my Ubass and I solved the "sticky" problem with String Fuel from Music Nomad. I like it better than Finger Ease because you don't spray it on the strings. I can slide without detuning the note.
Awesome! I'll have to look into that. Thank you for sharing!
I’ll check it out. The stickiness is the one thing I don’t like about my ubass.
String Fuel is awesome for any regular guitar or bass strings as well. If you use it regularly and wipe the strings they last about 3 times as long.
This is very helpful. Thank you.
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!
Love the comparisons especially because you play the same song on all the various strings.
Thanks, I do my best to make the comparison straightforward. Thanks for watching!
Thank you so much for this detailed video.. so useful..
I'm glad I could help. Thank you for watching!
Thanks for doing this comprehensive review on string types. My EKO Fretless U-bass came with Aquila Thunderguts and although it sounded warm and mellow, I had a couple of issues with them. As you said, sliding up on the strings affected the intonation, this seems to be unavoidable. The other issue for me was my fingers tended to stick on the strings. I had no intention of putting lubricant or powder on the strings, so I ended up wearing thin cotton gloves, a bit like Scott does. I play an Epiphone EB3 with Rotosound flatwound Jazz bass strings which slide and produce a warm tone. With that in mind, saved up and got a set of Galli black nylon wrapped flatwounds. They solved both my issues and play well, especially when amplified. The only downside is they are much quieter if unplugged.
I'm glad you found this helpful! I still enjoy my flat wounds. Cheers!
This is actually more helpful that some of the bigger subscription channles who've commented on strings.
I'm glad I could help! Thanks for watching!
Thanks for this comparison. It's just what I was looking for. Each string type has it's own pros. This typed, what attracted me to this type of bass (ukulele) outside of the size is that with the "rubber" strings, it sounds akin to an upright bass... so those are my favorite sounding strings. As an aside, the coral colored Kala with the f-holes is nice. I've not seen that color before. All the best!
Just got a short-scale acoustic bass. it came with D’Addario EXPPBB190GS nylon core strings. Of course, now I have to go get other options just to hear the difference. Thanks for the great video.
Congrats on the bass! Have fun trying different options!
best ubass string vid on youtube.. thanks!
Thanks for watching!
Just got my Galli Kala flat wounds. Love them. I’m an upright player and liked the rubber strings but the flat wounds are the bomb. Thanks for sharing about them.
You're welcome! They're great for sure!
stephencoxbass I’ve been playing with them for a bit, but they are noisy. Slightest touching makes a tapping kind of noise. Wasn’t expecting that. Thoughts? Also the D and G string don’t pickup as well as the A and E
I went with the roundwounds. My U-Bass came yesterday, and I can't believe how clear it sounds!
Awesome! The roundwounds are definitely the clearest sounding. They're the best for slap and harmonics. Congrats on your new U-Bass!
Thank you. I needed that info. I bought a Ubass to noodle around on without having to pick up my full size bass. Mine came with the rubber strings, which to me feel so so weird. I’m having a hard time getting used to the feel of them. In your demo, as an alternative, I did like the sound of the flat wound strings and the warmth of the rubber strings.
I like all of them, but the flats are the best of both worlds for me. Thanks for watching!
Great review
Thank you, Jim!
Thanks for the detailed info! I have a Hadean U-bass and I like the polyurethane strings, but some things (like slapping) just sound better with metal strings, IMO.
I agree, each have their strengths. That's why I have all 3 :)
thanks for uploading this. i'm planning to get u-bass some time this month and since it comes with round wounds i wasn't sure whether to leave them on the bass, but after watching this, i think i will. keeping in mind that, if i ever happen to purchase a fretless one, i might as well use flatwounds for that full-on upright sound :)
Cool! Which model are you looking at?
@@stephencoxbass either the exotic mahogany or the wanderer, not quite sure yet
Great vid, thanks a lot!
Thank you!
This is interesting. There's not as much difference according to what I'm hearing as I expected. It's cool that there are string choices now for these things. Thanks for sharing this.
There are some big differences, but the playing is the biggest difference. I find the flat wounds easiest to play. Thanks for watching!
@@stephencoxbass Great comparison video, and this comment about flat wounds being easiest to play is also very helpful. Flat wounds are not available as a stock choice on a new instrument, so between round wounds and the Pahoehoe black strings which would be easier for a beginner to play (a beginner that has to order a UBass from one of the big online retailers without being able to audition it).
Your videos are incredibly helpful!
I'm really hoping to get a Journeyman Ubass(I love the look of the mahogany with the f-holes), but you can only seem to buy them with round wound strings these days, and I really want to use Thunderguts.
Do you know if it's easy to switch the strings? I've heard the bridge needs some modification, and I'm not sure I'd trust myself to make any modifications haha.
I think you can switch them out fairly easily, but you'll probably have to replace the nut...I don't think the bridge needs anything. I hope that helps!
Think I'll still use my rubber strings, as they give the natural bass sound. If the price were lower, I might have tried the flatwound, to give a bit more of an electric bass sound, with less scratchiness than the round strings.
Price does play a big part. Flatwound and rubber are my two favorites. I seldom use the round wounds these days.
I play uke and have been looking for a ubass for while. I wanted one with flat wound strings standard but got a Hadean with rubber strings 'cause the price was right. I thought I changed the strings but you make the rubber sound great. Gives me something to work towards.
Thanks! Both strings are great. I'm really enjoying the flats the most, but rubbber do have a certain vibe you can't get from either metal string.
Great video.
I think I'll buy one for me and my son
They are fun! I'm not sure how young your son is, but kids seem to love the rubber strings!
very good video, very organized
Thanks for watching!
Your Personal Linguist sez: Every letter in Hawai’ian words is pronounced. So “pahoeho” (which is a type of lava) is pronounced “pa-HO-ay-HO-ay,” NOT “pa-ho-ho.”
Otherwise, this video ROCKED. Have played bass since 1970, but am brand new to the uke and looking for guidance.
You have answered one question already: It’s round-wound strings for me, on my Hadean cutaway fretless ukulele bass!
Once again, thank you sir.
You're very welcome!
Awesome video
Thank you!
Excellent video!!! I'd love to change out the strings on my Oscar UBass.
Thank you! I'm not sure if they are the same scale, but I'm sure there are multiple options for it either way. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the informative video, Stephen!
I just bought the metal round wounds model, ebony as it was available. I wanted to buy the solid mahogany one - as long they are still available - but the store could not offer metal strings for it...
My new Ubass works well with our garage rock band, the guys liked the sound and versatility of the acoustic model when amplified. No feedback issues so far, aside from the positive fact that the instrument has better sustain when amplified.
I'm now considering to buy a mahogany and maybe change strings, or rather maybe not, now that I have the round wounds. Having many basses is... well, basic luxury :-)
I think the ebony model looks great, I'd love to get a fretless one! Congrats on the new U-bass!
Wow, I really dig the flat wound strings sound! Question, Steven or others who know, I have a Kala U-bass, solid spruce top model that of course came with the Kala black rubber strings. If I switch to the flat wound, would I need to get a luthier to adjust the nut, saddle or action first? Thanks much!
With mine, I had to widen the nut, but the ones designed for the rubber strings should have the right sized grooves for the flats (they are thicker than the round wounds, so a bit more like the rubber). The only reason you might need any adjustments like that is if the string height is too high. I haven't put them on a U-Bass that had the rubber strings yet, but that's my thought on it. I hope that helps!
Those flat wounds sound incredible, definitely gonna put some on mine when I get it
I think you will like them. I'm still enjoying them, for sure! Thanks for watching!
Amazing review! Would love to see you use the flat wounds on the violin u bass you were using in that one video you made a while back. Wanted to know if that made any difference in the tuning and play ability of that bass in particular. I’ve looked around and haven’t really seen any other comprehensive videos about that bass.
Keep it going you sound great !
I’m not sure if you mean the Hadean that looks like a Hofner, or the fretless Chinese bass. If you mean the 2nd one, I did put Flatwounds on that one and have a couple of videos with it. Thanks for watching!
Great video
Thanks for watching!
It's pronounced pah-ho-eh-ho-eh, every vowel in Hawaiian is always pronounced, no silent vowels.
Thank you. I had no idea, and have never heard it properly pronounced.
Thanks! That's a perfect comparison video! I'd go for the flats :-)
I'm glad I could help. Cheers!
man, i’m from Brazil, and i’m thinking about buying some uBass, thanks for the review!
I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for watching the live stream, too!
yo thanks for linking this vid to me, and you even thoroughly covered this (especially the tension/action)! but ooohhh damn, 50$ for a set of flats?!! I mean, I understand flats are already an investment (currently rockin' a ten year old set, can't even remember the brand now lol (yes, they totally still hold, and weirdly I even have to often tune *down* the E)), did you use actual sized/scaled strings (probably since you said *50$!* ) or is it possible to use regular flatwounds cut down??
These flats have a nylon core (I believe), so they put less stress on a U-bass. They're also thicker than regular flats, and are sized to the instrument. To me they're worth spending a bit extra for.
Hi Stephen. I have used the Thunder Reds on my Kala Acoustic for about five years and they are by far my favorite non-metallic string for the U-Bass. They are thinner than the Thunderguts, not as sticky and have a punchier tone that is still very upright-like. I use a plastic container with a sponge soaked with mineral oil that I dip my fingertips in. This virtually eliminates string noise and lets the fingertips of my right hand release the strings smoothly which greatly improves the tone. On my solid body SUB I use the Galli UXB 810 Blacknylon strings. They sound and feel great and really last. I've had them on since last December and there is still no wear on them. I found that the Kala roundwounds are to soft and thin and the frets and my acidic hands tear through them very quickly. I also want top say that both the Galli flat wound and Galli nylon roundwound contain steel and should work with magnetic pickups for those with the skills to install them in a Kala solidbody.
Thank you for all the info! I never would have thought to use mineral oil. In the future I may have to see about trying to install the type of pickup you mentioned...that should reduce string to fret noise a bit, too.
I agree - the Thunder Reds are less sticky than the Thunder Guts. Thinner too. I've had hand issues so, experimenting, I've used Gorilla Tips on my left hand fingertips, then wear a tight-fitting silk (or cotton) glove over that - I can slide easily on the Thunder Reds and my fingertips are protected (which I need b/c of my injury). I'm considering the Flats but the added tension concerns me....
For some reason I cannot fit the white Thundergut 68 U, thru the bridge holes of my Kaka Bakhiti Kumalo. By any chance do you use any other gages /brands or did you use a drill and make those string "cavities" bigger? thanks 🙏
thank you for this! contemplating getting one of these but comparing string sounds isa big part of it.
Which strings did you like best? Thanks for watching!
I got the fretted model (Nomad a/e) with the rubbery strings - i'll be using this bass mainly for emulating the upright sound, which it does very well. Busking with my string band and not hauling the doghouse, yay! Sounds great through my old battery-powered Pignose, will be upgrading to a smaller better amp this year.
Unplugged, I like thewarmer sound produced by the poly strings. Pugged in they all have their advantages and disadvantages that can be either accentuated or overcome with amps and what not. I've been looking for a little bass of some sorts to use as an accompanyment on a boat when we're hanging out on the water. A little Kala with rubber strings appears to be the ticket. Cool comparison, thanks.
The one downside with the rubber is that they are much quieter than the others unplugged. Keep that in mind if you plan to play acoustically. Cheers!
During normal playing where I never really slide up more than 2 semitones I've never really noticed the intonation/sliding problem on Rubber strings. I'm using the ThunderGuts btw on a Harley Benton, I don't know if the 21" scale makes much of a difference (longer scale = more tension, so in theory it could help). If I get sweaty hands the strings do get hella sticky, so it might be an issue then, but for casual 30 minute couch sessions it's not a problem for me.
Oh yeah the red Aquila strings have a bit more brightness to them according to the website. And according to some reviews they're also less sticky than the thunderguts.
Sorry for spamming your channel full of comments, as you can tell I've been binging a lot of your content :P
I think the longer scale does help, but it's also only super noticeable on long slides. Thanks for the info on Thunder Reds...I knew about the stickiness, but not the brightness. Thanks again for watching. Cheers!
I have always loved how flats sound and feel but I did notice they almost sounded muted compared to the other two on this video.
I love the ticking on the frets with the round wounds but that doesn’t work for all songs. And they are just too rough for my tender fingers.
The rubber strings, I have no experience with but I really like that upright sound. I may give those a try since they’re so affordable.
Thanks for the help!
The flats do sound a bit more muted, but I prefer them over all. The polyurethane strings are great, but the rubbery feel takes some getting used to. Thanks for watching!
Stephen... Great Comparison video! I just subscribed to your channel a couple of weeks ago, as I happen to come across some reviewing videos on the KALA U-Basses, as I was researching information on them. I have a question for you, Stephen.. I am looking into purchasing a KALA U-Bass to add to my 3 electric basses (and 4 Lap & console Steel Guitars.... and 9 harmonica's. lol), in my quest for as close to an Upright bass sound as I can get, for playing Country, Country Gospel, Western/Texas Swing & Bluegrass.
Which of the Kala U-Basses and String combinations, would you consider to best fit that "wish list" for that Upright / Dbl Bass sound??
Also, is there Really any appreciable difference in sound, quality and overall longevity, between the "Fishman" (made in Mass. USA) electronics on the "higher end" ($429.+) KALA U-Basses, and those on the next step down ($300. - $400.), that would make it a "game changer" to "own the best they have"??
In other words, and besides the type of woods used on the different models.... do I really "need" to spend $449. to get the best Upright bass sound from the Mahogany or Ebony U-Basses, or can I get the same sound & Quality from a $300.+ U-Bass? Are the $449.+/- U-Basses with the Fishman electronics, and the HipShot tuners (as nice as they are) really worth the extra money, in comparison to the slightly lower price range and their components??
I CAN afford them.... but, is it really necessary to do so, and get what I'm looking for in sound and longevity??
I am Not currently playing with any bands... and am now 73 years "young", so I'm now playing for my own pleasure, and jamming with others, who are also "getting up there" in their years, but have also been playing for decades as well.
Thank you in advance, Stephen... for your time and any experienced insights and suggestions you can make in helping me with my decision in acquiring my first (and most likely, Only) U-Bass from KALA... your response will be Greatly appreciated, and taken into consideration of which one I choose to purchase. I will let you know which one I get...... IF, it's even in stock.
At the moment, it's seems they're Out of Stock on just about All of them (11.14.2022 on the KALA website store), except for the two High End models, and the one for $389.... unless they have more for sale on other online websites or dealers... like Sweetwater or possibly even Guitar Center, etc, etc.... but I would prefer to buy directly from them. Thanks Again.
Thanks for watching! You would probably be happy enough with any that come with the polyurethane strings, but I do feel like it can be worth the step up for quality and quality control on the more expensive models.
I thought the Pahoehoe strings sounded the most like an upright, but there are more options at this point I have yet to try. I hope that info helps a bit. Cheers!
P.S. I don't know if any of it is a "game changer" specifically, but I would probably spend the extra for the upgraded pickup if I were only getting one.
@@stephencoxbassThank you Stephen for your reply.... I really appreciate it and your thoughts on it. I found a Mahogany U Bass used on a site, but it does Not have the Fishman electronics, I think it might be an "older" model, and it has Kala round wounds on it, although it comes with a New set of Aguila Thundergut strings (new, in package), as well as the Kala Custom Bass Bag, and a 2" Velvet strap (New) - all for less than $400. I haven't moved on it yet... but thinking I will... Soon.
I was looking at some of the Rondo/Hadean versions.... and the prices are certainly "right".... but, I don't trust them for any kind of worth while quality.
I also looked at the Luna line... No Truss rods... I don't like that. The Lanakai's looked good, but I don't care for the way they're set up with those Phosphorus Bronze strings.... not "bassy" enough for me.
Not much sense in going "cheap" then have to turn around and spend another $150.+/- to make it "right". So, will most likely stick with the Kala.
Great video! This might be a stupid question, but would it be possible to simply use longer roundwound/flatwound bass strings and cut them down to size? My upright is currently out of commission, and I was wondering if I could harvest the flatwounds for my new u-bass. I don't mind the rubber strings, but I am a big fan of the flatwounds.
Thank you! The flat and round-wounds for U-bass have a nylon core to lessen tension on the bass. I highly reccommend not using strings that aren't intended for U-bass for that and other reasons. Maybe you could clean and sell your upright strings used, and buy some flats with that money. Since new upright strings are notoriously expensive, some people will buy them used.
I have a Makala Ubass (cheaper Kala brand thing) I really like the flatwounds to stick on it. did you have to change the truss rod tension at all? or was the only thing filing the nut?
I did not have to adjust the truss rod, just filed the nut under the E string and possibly the A string. Thanks for watching. Cheers!
nice video man, what about volume (acoustically of course) ? Do you also find round-wounds to be louder than rubber strings ?
Round wounds are definitely louder. Are they loud enough to be in a jam setting with a guitar? Almost...they're still a little too quiet when acoustic, but they are louder than rubber.
Thanks, i love the rubber strings. ;)
You gotta love that classic U-Bass sound!
@stephencoxbass
Hello there,
I'm late in the conversation, but I have a question. It'll probably sound strange, and it's because I don't play bass, ukulele or otherwise (at least not yet!).
BUT, here it goes: When doing slides with the "rubber" strings, do you think it would be possible to figure out, like in a trial and error way, how to play the intended note on the wrong fret?
Let's say the note is flat, like you said (and I understand it on a theoretical point of view): what if you played it on the next fret? Then, if it's still flat, you'd play it another fret further. If it's sharp, however, you could push a little harder on the string while sliding.
Am I making sense? Anyway, thanks for your videos, I saw most of them and you're doing an awesome job.
Great idea! I've thought about things like this, and the main problem is that there are pitches between the ones we use. When we go further up to the next fret, the string hasn't adjusted quite the right amount to get that note in tune to either. The factor that affects this more is the amount of friction from the finger sliding up the string. Some people combat this with powder (or some liquid maybe?), which reduces the friction. However, on a fretless U-bass, your theory could work if the player has a great ear and a quick reaction time!
I have a Kala U Hutch Hutchinson model. It came with yhe black pohoehoe strings and the volume of the low E and the A strings are so much lower in volume than the D & G strings, especially when plugged in. Could this be remedied by changing to the white polyurethane thundergut or an other type of string? Or perhaps there's something wrong with the piezo pickup...? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
With the newer type of pickup, I know the fix is to cut the saddle in 4 places so the strings are able to push down on the pickup evenly, but I think you have the other style pickup. I would contact Kala. Some have been able to fix this by loosening the strings and tightening them in different orders, though. I hope that helps. Cheers!
Great comparision!! The U bass seems to be a good option for someones like me who suffered neck and hands pain :( ... I have a question, what about TAPEWOUND strings? There's a version for U Bass?
Thank you! I agree that U-Bass is better when there are injuries. I don't know of any tapewound strings, but if you hear of any, please let me know. I would love to review them when they come out!
Subscribed today from Philippines. Hard to get a Ubass in these times hopefully i could get one.
I hope you can soon! Maybe someone is making bass ukuleles there?
@@stephencoxbass yeah but its hard to get one now because of this covid19 issue all essentials are closed now except only food and medicine.
I use Aquila Thunder Reds and I am very pleased with them, they are not sticky and sound excellent.
I still have yet to get a set, but I hear good things about them every time. I should get some soon! Thanks for watching!
@@stephencoxbass Unfortunately, the Thunder Reds dry out relatively quickly (few months) and then tear. That quickly becomes expensive to play Thunder Reds. ...sounding great and less sticky.
Hey Stephen great review. thanks! My wife has a u-bass (made by me :-)) with rubber (ok polyurethane) strings - I want to buy some flat wounds and see what they sound like and if easier etc. Two questions - if she hates them can she re-string with the old rubber strings? Or will it have to be a new set? And how much additional tension do the flat wounds put on? Her u-bass has not got a metal truss-rod - just a carbon fibre insert. cheers
Hi Simon, I think it's fairly easy to put the rubber strings back on if you want, but I'm not sure how much tension your design can take. They have a nylon core, but the flatwounds have a decent amount of tension in comparison. One day I might try them on my fretless that also lacks a truss rod, so I'll have a better answer then. Thanks for watching. Cheers!
Hey Stephen, thanks for these. Question: you mention EQ'ing out the finger noises on the rubber strings. Do you have a video where you talk more specifically about how you do that?
I'm not sure...it might be in a live stream somewhere. Basically it's just taking the treble out as much as possible. If you had an eq pedal with "8 bands" or "16 bands" you could find the specific frequencies that are causing the noise, but with just a bass and an amp, turn the hi or treble down and that should reduce the noise a bit.
Turning down the treble took out all the weird noise in mine. Boosted the mid a bit
Hey Stephen! I usually play my electric in Drop D, and if I get a U-bass I’s want to keep it that way. Which strings do you recommend for Drop D?
I imagine either of the metal strings would hold fine at the lower pitch. However, I think they do make five string packs...maybe they can go even lower. I would probably say the round wounds would be my best guess.
Dear Stephen, do you think it's possible to install the Aquila Thunderguts on the Kala Journeyman (originally set up with the round wounds)? Will the spaces in the nut and the wholes in the bridge be big enough for the thicker polyurethane strings? I'm looking into which Ubass to buy (totally new at ubass though been playing e-bass for a long time) Do you think is also possible to instal flat wounds or round wounds in the Journeyman that comes originally with the Thunderguts (they wooden mate finish)? Would you need to adjust the truss rod for that? I would totally appreciate your help!
Juan, the spaces in the nut on the round wound Journeyman are too small. I had to file them to make them large enough for the flat wounds, which are thicker like the Thunderguts. I'm pretty sure the holes in the bridge aren't a problem...at least they weren't for the flat wounds. I've never heard anything about having to adjust the Truss rod for adding flats...I put flats on my red Journeyman and it has been fine after just filing the bridge. I hope that helps! Great questions!
@@stephencoxbass Thank you so so much for your help!!! I was just thinking of getting the Journeyman that comes with the Thunderguts, and maybe try the flatwounds on it, like changing strings often a bit depending of the style of music, from the Thunderguts to the flats but since the flatwounds put more tension on the neck (I guess) then I thought neck adjustments would be necessary every time. --
I love your videos by the way!! Keep them coming!
@@JuanDavidGarzon The only truss rod adjustments I've made have been for the rubber strings in certain cases...probably because they vibrate wider, and this was to avoid fret buzz. otherwise, I haven't noticed any need for truss rod work. Thank you!
@@stephencoxbass Got it! Thanks for sharing all your experience!
I like them all. The flatwound are my favorites though.
I go back and forth, but I'm also still enjoying the flat wounds a lot.
Do you find much difference in the unplugged sound level between the kala models you play in the video (when using same strings, of course)? I know they need to be plugged in in most settings, but wondering if there is a difference for when i want to mess around on my couch and don't want to plug in.
You lose a lot of the power of the low frequencies, but it’s fairly similar otherwise. The metal strings definitely project better unplugged, so you might want to stray from the polyurethane ones to hear yourself better unplugged. Thanks for watching!
Hi Stephen, thanks for all the great information. Do you know if tape wound strings will work on a Kala? like D'addario flat tape wounds or Labella deep talking?
That's a great question. I personally would not try it for a few reasons: The gauge is different for full scale bass strings, so they would be very loose on a U-Bass. Also, the tape wounds have a metal core while U-Bass strings have nylon cores, and since the strings wouldn't taper at the ends soon enough, they would put stress on the tuners. If you were to get a 5 string pack to get around the first issue I mentioned, you might amplify the 2nd issue. Maybe one day they will make tape wounds designed for such a short instrument, but I have yet to see any on the market. Thanks for watching!
Stephen: I just found and love your videos. I have a question, though. What 20" scale bass uke strings or bass uke and strings combination would you recommend for maximum acoustic volume? It can be pretty hard to hear myself in the traditional Irish sessions I play in. Thanks! TL
Purely louder volume acoustically would have to be the round wound metal strings, but it tends to sound more like an acoustic bass guitar than the sound you are used to.
@@stephencoxbass Are the flat wound strings far behind? I never liked the buzz I got on my beloved Ibanez acoustic bass with round wound.
Great tutorial, thanks a million. But please, folks, stop calling Aquila strings "Aqueela" with the accent on the double ee. It's 'Ah-kwilah, accent on the A. 'A-kwilah. Means eagle, in italian. Thank you
Thanks for the info! I never knew that's what it meant.
Aquila "a-keela" means eagle in spanish.
@@e.miller8943 Aquila is not spanish, where eagle is aguila pronounced ['a-gwilah], but italian, pronounced ['akwilah]. Akeela pronounced like tequila is wrong and does not exist neither in spanish nor in italian, trust me, I am 100% certified italian, and guitarist. Aquila strings are 100 italian made in Vicenza, Italy. So please Aaron don't think you are smarter, do your own research on Google, and please simply call them by their name: 'Akwilah. What do you mean with "I don't believe you" ... Cose da pazzi ci tocca leggere, mannaggia, il primo che passa si inventa qualunque fesseria e monta in cattedra!
@@Lanternamagika Lol vero
@@Lanternamagika How do you say DOUCHEBAG in italian? Just look at your driver's license. I'm sure it's on there somewhere.
Thanks for all your hard work on this. I've been looking hard for a "campfire" option to my pj bass + amp!
I wonder if I can get a u bass fretless with flat wound.
Is there a small portable/battery amp you can recommend in case I need more volume?
I think the Roland Microcube for bass is one option, but there may be many more options. If you are on Facebook, I would join the "ubass freaks" Facebook group and ask on there. Thanks for watching!
Hey Stephen! I come back to this video every so often when the urge to buy a U-bass comes up. I have a strong feeling I'm going to bite the bullet soon HAH. So I've been looking at a solid body fretless Hadean U-bass, I was thinking that perhaps the flatwounds would be best? My reasoning is that roundwounds would tear up the fretboard over time. Also, I feel that the flatwounds sound closer to that vintage p-bass sound which would make it a suitable alternative to those gigs where I don't want to lug my bass guitar. The music my band plays is 70's to 90's pop, funk, and rock. Could you share your opinions/thoughts? Thanks in advance!
I personally prefer the flatwounds as well. I know Kala recommended not putting them on their solid body U-basses for some reason...hopefully that same issue is not the case for Hadean. If you try it, let me know how it sounds! Cheers!
@@stephencoxbass Thanks a bunch!! I guess I can always buy a flatwound set to test out and save the stock strings if needed. I'm not experienced with piezos, so my theory is there could be stronger tonal changes on a solid body. I'll reply back if I find out!
Thanks for the video. Very informative. Those galli strings are definitely not cheap. Wow! I think I would have to go with the Kala metal rounds. Still not a bargain but a little more than half the cost of the galli flat wound strings.
I hear you, they aren't cheap! But they are so worth it to me! The round wounds are still great, though!
I chose the roundwound strings so that I could combine them with classical guitar strings for a GDAE tuning. I definitely want to give flatwounds a try, I think I would prefer a softer, darker tone.
I enjoy the flatwounds a lot. They are definitely better for a soft/darker tone.
Thanks for the great videos. Are there models that can take either strings, or are you committed to the stye of string that came with the u-bass?
Many of the acoustic electric models will take any string, but you may have to change the nut or widen the grooves under certain strings. The strings will work as long as the bass ukulele is the right length and has a truss rod. Thanks for watching!
Hi, thanks for the infos. I'm a beginner to intermediate player. Is it cool to change from rubber to metal strings on the same ubass? Do they come with a truss rod?
Most bass ukuleles (and all Kala acoustic/electric U-Basses) have truss rods in the neck already. Rubber to metal should be fine, although most people recommend replacing the nut with one suited for those strings specifically. Thanks for watching!
Extremelly helpful. Thanks! Liking the upright sound and the higher tension so flatwounds seem like a good (and expensive) compromise for what I want to do. Any comment on which Kala U-Bass has a better upright sound? especially Rumbler, Exotic Mahogany and Striped Ebony. Or is the selection of string more important than the specific instrument? Thanks in advance.
It's more about the strings and the pickup, so those options might sound similar unless they have changed the pickups on one of those models since I last checked. Thanks for watching!
@@stephencoxbass Thank you.
Hey @stephencoxbass
Just discovered the channel after getting my first ubass. In the manual from kala for setting up the ubass it says for intonation, try not to exceed to 2 turns around the tuning peg.
Have you noticed a difference with setup?
I am using the stock rubber strings that came with the bass and its the left handed exotic mahogany model.
I think that's good advice, although mine came with the strings already on with 3-4 times wrapped around and have been fine over all. I have no clue how much it actually affects the intonation, but I suppose it could. I honestly never heard that advice was for intonation purposes, but that's good to know. I'll have to test it out to see what kind of difference it makes. Thanks for watching!
Hey! I have the Journeyman but want to change the strings for rubber, however the aquila strings I bought didnt fit. Do you know the model or name of the strings you have in your Journeyman?
Hey! I put the Galli/Kala metal flat wound strings on my Journeyman. If you want to change yours to polyurethane strings, you may need to buy a new nut intended for those that has wider grooves. If the strings aren't fitting through the holes on the bridge, you may want to see if the string packets mention the gauges of the strings and find a set with a thinner gauge. Otherwise you may need to widen the holes there (which I would try to avoid...). Thanks for watching!