Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Rikk, try to get a B string with a gauge of at least .128". I only use .130" B strings on all of my 5 string basses. I don't like the sound or feel of a lighter B string. I'm thinking of trying a heavier string, but that might be a bit too much, but should be worth trying at least once.

Joey, What brand do you use? I tried a .130 GHS and I hated it.

On my 5er's it's always D'Addario. I haven't tried Dean Markley Blue Steels on a 5er yet because the heaviest gauge they offer in a set is .128".
I've had Ernie Ball slinkys on my 5ers, they sound nice when you put them on, but one gig and the tone is gone.
After trying a few sets of GHS strings, I've also been dissatisfied with them, but I know several guys that love them.

If you want rounds that last, try the Thomastik-Infeld Superalloys. TI uses a nickel extrusion process that gives the nickel longer life compared to nickel plating. Stefan Lessard of the Dave Matthews Band uses them. I've been pleased with mine so much that they're on most of my basses.

And as an update, The Lull arrived Thursday and I took it to practice Friday night. The neck is the most comfortable one I've played for a fiver. I had no problems anywhere on the neck. I ordered a J-style Lull with active electronics as a compliment to my P/J5.

Now to get rid of some of this other stuff.

Any 4004's on the "get rid of" list?

Paul Alvarez bought my 4004Cii and had Jeff Rath do a 4-2-5 conversion. I have a 4004C that I was planning to hold onto unless I get a good offer.