Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Some of the string debates on here got me thinking - how many members actually use Rickenbacker stock strings on their basses?

I noticed the gauges are slightly different to my D'addrio's (which are 45/65/85/105) and the Rics (45/55/75/105).

Obviously the change in tension would be fine on the 4003, but tone-wise, I was wondering if there's any benefit with a 'factory' string, or how they differ?

I've long used the Ricky-branded stings. But I wonder if I'd like the ones you use better what with the heavier gauges on the A & D strings.

I prefer the Ric strings on my 4003.They have a nice feel and the tension is good. They also sound great and seem to last.I don't think I would want them on my Fenders as they seem to like a heavier guage string. But I'm happy with the factory strings on my Ric. Roger.

Never tried any of them,except for the the red box flatwounds from the 70's....which were/are fabtastic. I use DR sunbeams,and circle k's for my roundwound needs. Aren't Ric strings made by Daddario? (Sorry i don't remember)

I've been using the bulk strings from Musician's Friend to get the recommended gauges. My Laredo came with factory strings, and the Rougue strings really don't seem any different. I've never had RIC strings on my 4001, and while it sounded/played really well with a wide range of string types, it does seem to play better with the RIC suggested gauges.

Next time on the 4001 I might go for either TI flats or GHS Brite Flats - seems you can order special sets of the GHS strings and get really close to the recommended sizes. But for now that is a future consideration. The 4001 sounds good to me with older strings, while I've recently learned that the Laredo should really have it's strings changed frequently.

Now using them on my 4008 8-string, thanks to Dane Wilder's advice, and am very happy with them.

The strings that came with my new 4003's have been fine, good sound and feel, but due to the price ($35/set from the Boutique), I usually go with something else. I almost always use Circle K's on my Ricks now - about $25/set. You can get them in gauges very similar to Rick strings and they work for me. If I were getting anything other than Circle K's, I'd definitely buy from Bass Strings Online. Great pricing, selection and service is great - not affiliated, just a happy customer.

--jack

I should duck and run after saying this: I use Fender bass strings, and I love them. They sound good, and they last. They're probably made in China, but they work.

I just use pieces of barbed wire of the roll I have for fences...

Barbed wire strings might be bloody good.

I use Rickenbacker strings on Rickenbacker basses and guitars. Not sure I'd like the guitar strings on any guitar other than a Rickenbacker, though.

cjj wrote:I just use pieces of barbed wire of the roll I have for fences...

Barbed wire strings might be bloody good.

That would have quite a barbaric sound to it.

cjj wrote:I just use pieces of barbed wire of the roll I have for fences...

I would think strings like that might be too confining, music-wise. Anyway, I also use Rickenbacker strings on my 4003. I got some of the lights, when they were on sale, just to try out. They sounded pretty d**n good, actually, and are a nice contrast to the nickel flats on my 4001. So they will stay, until they need replacing with another set.

jps wrote:

cjj wrote:I just use pieces of barbed wire of the roll I have for fences...

Barbed wire strings might be bloody good.

That would have quite a barbaric sound to it.

Ba dum bump!

I do on the guitars... 10-42