DR Strings - Hi-Beams - Bass Guitar Strings 4-String Set - Medium 45-105 - Stainless Steel Round Core - Bass Guitar Accessories (MR-45)

Over the last 10 years or so, I've been pretty obsessive about trying out new gear - amps, instruments, effects, etc - always wondering if there's something better for me out there. As I've evolved as a player, my tastes have also changed a bit. I've been with DR Hi-Beams for a while now, though, and usually only buy another brand if I'm in a pinch (got a show tonight and I forgot to buy new strings, that kind of thing). Here are some reasons I prefer these strings over your run-of-the-mill roundwounds: First of all, I personally cannot tell a difference in sound or feel between most strings of similar gauge and materials. D'Addario, GHS, Ernie Ball, etc all have their standard nickel roundwound strings, and they all sound and feel the same. DRs are different, though, and I suspect this is due to their round-core construction. The majority of strings out there are constructed with a hexagonal core. A round core makes the string a bit more flexible and appears to affect the tone. So, compared to other stainless strings, I find that the Hi-Beams have a bit rounder of a tone, not quite as bright or as "clangy" as most stainless strings. The softer feel makes them play just a bit easier than other stainless strings of the same gauge, in my opinion, which keeps my left hand a bit more relaxed - always a good thing. They also appear to last quite a while while still maintaining a useful tone. Don't get me wrong, they have a "zing" when they are fresh that fades quickly like any other string, but they maintain a solid tone for quite a long time. I find I don't have to change them nearly as often, and in some cases I actually like the sound they have when they are well-worn. They don't seem to become quite as "dead" sounding as other strings. Also, in terms of feel, they don't feel quite as rough as other stainless strings I've tried. They aren't as smooth as nickel strings, but they are closer to that feel than most stainless strings I've used. When playing an instrument with "standard" stainless strings, the strings feel more like sandpaper compared to the Hi-Beams. So, in summary, if you are like me and want a versatile string with a unique feel, these strings are perfect. I prefer to have a hi-fi string and then roll off the treble when I want a darker sound - you can always cut frequencies, but you can't put them back in if they aren't there to begin with. This is why I almost never use flatwound strings - they sound great, but when I need that treble back for another song, I have to switch instruments. These sound good on every bass I've tried them on, and will likely be my go-to string for quite some time. Until I feel the need to try something new again, that is.

I've played, recorded and performed with nearly every bass string out there. For me the DR Hi Beams are the absolute best string I have used - Period. They have a great, flexible feel, sound fantastic with plenty of high-end bite, a nice smooth mid presence and a deep, satisfying low-end and they stay in tune extremely well. They also last a reasonably long time for this "I ruin strings 1/2 way through a set" bassist. Anyway, strings are a very subjective item, so I cannot promise these will be loved by everyone. But if you're looking for a great set of SS bass strings and have not tried Hi Beams yet, please do so. One warning: Because Hi-Beams are wound on a round core, they must be bent at the end before you cut them. DR includes an insert to explain this in detail. Please follow these instructions or your strings will sound and feel dead and lifeless. Also, make it a point to wind them up to pitch slower than you normally might. If you follow these two suggestions, you'll at least have the strings at their best for you to evaluate. Hope you enjoy. Cheers to laying down the low-end!!

I just love the feel and sound quality for my Bass guitar

awesome strings delivery was great

My favorite electric bass is a passive Warwick Corvette. I was looking for a bit more edge to it's sound. I can't describe what I mean exactly, but a bassist would know. I guess I needed a bit more punch. The DR High-Beams improved the sound of my Warwick. The strings are easy to fret cleanly and the note definition is clear and true. These strings sustain well and slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs are all easy accomplished. The strings are bright but not overly so. Chords have a tasteful sound and harmonics are clean and true. The DR High-Beams even put the thump back in my thump. I would recommend these strings to any bassist looking for a full sound but not wanting a glaringly bright response. I'm thinking of putting a set on my 5 string Warwick Thumb Bass as well.

So far, comparable to Rotosound ground round wound for slap. Clean and sharp tone, nice duration, and i can feel the low end bass cut through. As I was unable to find the specific set I was after, this seems to be a close second to what i was looking for... also similar to Rotosound 66's. Hoping these hold the sound as advertised.

I have been experimenting with several brands of strings on my Rickenbacker 4003s. Nothing seemed to feel right, sound right or last long enough. The DR Hi-Beam strings were recommended by several players in the Rickenbacker forums that I belong to. I had never tried them before. Well, I'm hooked! These strings have the sound & feel of Rotosounds while lasting way longer. I can kill a set of those in one show. The tension feels good. I hate floppy strings. I like them tight because I am an aggressive player & I need that resistance from the strings. I am very happy with these. They will be the only strings I use on my Ric & maybe a few of my other basses too.

I used to buy these strings at a music store, until he went out of business. I was glad they still had them through prime. They have the sound that I prefer over others.

These strings have been a great addition to my VM '77 Jazz Bass. Even after wearing in the brightness remains while keeping that authentic jazz bass tone.

Der Hammer!

Gros son, puncher et très précis

These strings are great! They have a really nice sound and arrived fast too.

excellent product