What Strings Are You Using on Those MTDs?

[Joe Roberts]

I've been wondering what strings all you MTDers are using on those basses.

Personally, I've been sticking with the standard MTD strings (steel, I think?) for almost all of my basses, with one exception.

I replaced the strings on my "main" MTD (535 fretless) with Elixirs, which have a slightly smaller B string. I was more-or-less treated as a blasphemer on TalkBass when I mentioned doing this :-). But I love how the Elixirs feel (though bending the strings took some getting used to, since they don't grip your fingers like steel strings) and I've been impressed with how good they still sound after almost a year of playing (I don't change strings often, usually I go about 1 year before replacing them unless they are seriously worn out).

How about you?

[Michael Wu]

I use the MTD custom medium strings: 30-45-65-85-105-135. I've been a D'Addario string user for the past 20 years, but, these were the strings that came with the bass and I like 'em, so, I've no reason to change.

I don't like to change strings often either. I try to keep them on as long as they still have life...

[Adrian Taylor]

Hi my name is Skip - I just got a beautiful tulipwood spalted top 535. I must say the bass seems a little short - it has 12 frets. My main issue is I can't seem to get the MTD sound or feel I am looking for. The B string was buzzing so I raised the action a little. Not sure what kind of strings are on the bass - they are new rounds. What setting can I try to get a crisp clean growl? My primary bass was a Pedulla Thunder 5 - I am hoping this will take its place.

Skip

[Brian Roberts]

Right now I am using a set of DR high-beams.. While I love the DR's on my Zon and my Joe Osborn, I think that the MTD strings work best for an MTD (IMHO).

[Virgil B. Walker]

I have used Elixirs also, and love them. However, I received proto-type MTD nickels, and I really like them, and am currently using them on my MTD 535. I am going to try a second set, and if I like those as well, I may stick with them. But I agree, the Elixirs are really good strings.

[Joe Roberts]

Thanks, Virgil. How do those Nickels sound? Are they very different to the steel MTDs?

[Virgil B. Walker]

They are warm. You must add more treble to get the bite. But they last a long time if wiped down after you play your axe. I don't get a lot of string noise when I slide my fingers over them like the steels, and they are easier on my finger tips. I just love them.

[Shizz]

I'm using the DR Black Beauties. They are suppose to last longer but my D string seams to dull quicker then the others. I do like the tone and feel of the strings. Also they look nice on the bass.

[Mark Smeets]

The DR High beams were nice on my MTD 5 (Korean) but the MTD strings themselves just sound 100% better so I've got them on both my 5 and 6 now. I've got an exposed core B.

[Vic]

Standard 135x's have been my fave so far, but on the advice of TGS, I'm trying some 130's at my next string change. My second faves are my first faves on other basses, which are DR's. LoRiders and HiBeams. Both SS.

[Mike Dimin]

I'm using TI Jazz Rounds tuned E to C on my 535. They are, without a doubt, the most unique string on the market. At this point I wouldn't play anything else

Mike

[Jan]

I use Elixirs too, the regular set with tapered B. The original MTD strings weren't excactly bad, but they lasted less than 2 weeks.

[Dave Daw]

I have used the MTD stainless med lights since 94.. I have tried a few others over the years but they have only lasted a few hours and had to change back.. I unfortunate for the wallet, change them quite often as I prefer a freshly oiled board and fresh strings..