Spirocore Obligato Bass String Set Upright Bass String Set

When it comes to Double Bass strings, sometimes the best thing to do is mix it up a bit.  At UptonBass we have tested many combinations of upright bass strings on thousands of basses, and here you have one of our favorites.  Gary's Blended Set involves Thomastick Spirocore S42 mediums and Pirastro Obligato's - two popular double bass strings working hand in hand, bringing forth the strengths of both string types. 

Gary's thoughts: "This blended set still achieves that great strong growl of the Spiro's for the jazz player, but without the plunky thin sound of the Spiro's D and especially the G.  In a blindfold test (plug your ears too) you truly cannot feel that you're playing two different string types.  Furthermore the diameters feel very well matched and step down very evenly.  At pitch, with my calipers, I get readings of (metric) E=2.9mm  A=2.15mm  D=1.75mm G=1.45mm and (imperial) E=.113"  A=.085"  D=.070" G=.055"  What I further enjoy is not having the "roll" of the Obligato E and A.  Walking a fast hard bop I find the Obligato A and especially the E become wishy-washy as the string does not seem to "zero" back to the point in which I started it quickly enough. Problem solved with the Spiro E and A.  With the bow I feel the Spiro E and A are very tamable and they also cross over VERY comfortably with the Obligato.  The bow start-up speed for all four strings feels very even.  I hate bowing the Spiro D and more so the G, once again problem solved with the Obligato's warmer response and lack of harsh scratchiness.  A great combo for the player that needs a string set that can play on Monday night with the Big Band, Tuesday with a Jazz Trio and Wednesday with the Orchestra.  No, this string setup won't offer the darkness of say a Flexocore or Evah Pirazzi when played with the bow but a terrific compromise that can truly wear both hats."

We use Spirocore S42 E & A medium gauge strings and Pirastro Obligato D & G strings for a fantastic double bass string set combination.  Great for pizzicato, works very well arco, and you still have that easy to play growly response.

Upton Bass is a double bass specialty company located in Stonington, Connecticut. We are ready to offer advice and answer any questions you have regarding your double bass, strings for your double bass, or related topics. Please contact us here or call our shop at (860) 535-9399. Our hours of operation are Monday through Saturday 10 am - 6 pm.