Musicman Stingray strings

[rolo79]

Hello all. 
 

I know you’re all much more knowledgeable than I am about this, so here goes… 

 

I have a 79 Stingray. Looks and feels great. I love the neck. Probably one of the nicest to handle. 
 

I bought it, the next day I went into the studio. Used it on a song that was released as a single and it sounds amazing on that track and the tone just gives the track an edge. 
 

However, I’ve never managed to get a sound that suits that song and the others on the set. When I play live, I can get tones that cover this track and all the other songs in the set. 
 

Could the strings be part of the reason for the lack of versatility? The strings (that came with it) are probably thinner than any I’ve ever used before. 
 

I’m looking for string (and gauge) recommendations to get the most out of the Stingray.

 

or

 

Is it the case that the Stingray isn’t the one?

 

 

[itu]

You want:

1) zing - SS RW 30, 35, or 40 set

2) flatter response - Ni RW 45, or 50 set

3) dull sound - flats or tapewounds

 

But on top of this, you need to find the set that speaks to you under your fingers. Yes, changing strings costs, but the bass may become the machine you want after few trials. And a new bass costs much more.

[rolo79]

Good advice. I’m thinking I’ll try some nickels on it for a flatter response. 
 

I’m hoping it evens the sound out a bit too. 
 

[Steve Browning]

Interesting. I have spoken with a few Stingray players (I owned an early one and have a Stingray type still) and many agree that the botttom two strings are great, but the top two just disappear when playing live.

[Lozz196]

Yep, when I`ve had Stingrays I`ve used gauges like 45-100 or 50-105 to balance out the low/high thing, and nickels to get some warmth and low-mids into the equation. I love the playability of Stingrays but I can never really get them to sound how I want - which is me being a fool as I just want everything to sound like a Precision.