Flat wounds on an A-Jr

[dorenac]

Am playing a Gibson A-Jr. and am curious if anyone is using flat wounds in stead of phosphors. And if so how do the two types compare? Do you like the flat wounds(either JM11's or T-I's) better? Or is it only a matter of difference? I tend to favor FW's. Do they sound too "dark" or subdued? I play mostly jazz, as a matter of reference.

[woodwizard]

I like TI Starks flat wounds the best but they are so exspensive. I also like the coated phosphor bronze too. So I use the bronze more simply because they are cheaper. It's nice to get a set of TI's every once and awhile. I thought the coated strings last a long time until I tried the TI's. They last so long. Both really sound good tho ... it's kinda like splitting hairs.

[OzMando]

Both really sound good tho ... it's kinda like splitting hairs.

Are you saying they are similar or that you like the sound of both?

[dorenac]

Let's not discuss string price. Yes T-I's are expensive, that's a given. So price notwithstanding, and specifically on the A-Jr, I would like some input and opinions about how they play and sound.

[mandroid]

Risk adverse,? buy D'addario FT they feel smooth but are flattened bronze wound ,
so will sound more like what you are used to ..
Just don't lay into the wound A strings hard , the core wire is thin.


It has been said ''writing about music is like dancing about architecture''.
:disbelief: :popcorn:

[dorenac]

Have tried D'addario FT, didn't like them. I'm not looking for further recommendations but for specific info about flatwounds for this specific mandolin. I'm being picky, I know, but for the time being this is what I would like to learn about.

[Stephen Lind]

i use the TI starks on my '20 A
they feel very good and are not to dark at all

i got lucky with my plain jane A Brownie
it's got a very big sound with J74's or the TI's
it's a bit easier to play with the TI's and i really like the way they sound
give them a try
bet they'll work well on your AJ for playing jazz

[pops1]

Try a GHS Silk and Bronze. They are like bronze, but warmer and seem to last. They are nowhere near the silk and steel strings. These have only been out a couple of years. Been playing them for those couple of years since i cant afford the Elixer's. Like them nearly as much as the Elixer and much better that the regular bronze. Nice gauge 11 16 26 40 too.

[Philphool]

Have tried D'addario FT, didn't like them. I'm not looking for further recommendations but for specific info about flatwounds for this specific mandolin. I'm being picky, I know, but for the time being this is what I would like to learn about.

I hear you.
The flatwounds feel great. Good tone to my ear; not bright or metallic. Main disadvantage to me is a slight loss of volume.
Not a great difference between JM-11s & TI starks except wound 2nd.