Diving Into Flatwounds

[Cunamara]

And what is the difference between the Dogal Expressive, Red Tag and Evolution flats?

I've now tried the D'Addario Chromes 11-50 on my Tele and GB10. In both cases the G string is sitar-y. Other than that I like the feel and the tone, which is a first with flatwounds for me.

[garybaldy]

Not dense questions at all. Just a few thoughts:

First, TIs and Pyramids are round core strings. Chromes are hex core which I have found to be very different in feel from round core and not desirable for me.

Second, I don't spend time thinking about tension figures from manufacturers. They might mean something, I suppose. But, like I said above, round core is what matters to me. There are only about three manufacturers that make flatwounds with round cores. TI and Pyramid are two of them. I also tune down a full step. I prefer that feel for string tension and also the lower note range of the guitar.

As far as action goes, I just set up and play. You may have to adjust higher with larger diameter strings, but it probably won't be noticeable.

Hi. I'm interested in the fact that you tune down a full step. Does that mean two semitones? Also do you play in bands with that set up? Thanks

[lammie200]

And what is the difference between the Dogal Expressive, Red Tag and Evolution flats?

I've now tried the D'Addario Chromes 11-50 on my Tele and GB10. In both cases the G string is sitar-y. Other than that I like the feel and the tone, which is a first with flatwounds for me.

You might want to try a plain G string. For years I have resisted and used a wound G. Now I seem to like plain G's better.