What is the gauge of the D'Addario PBB130?

The gauge of this specific single string is .130, which is typically used for the lowest string on an acoustic bass.

What material is used for the winding?

The string features a phosphor bronze winding, which is known for its balance of warmth and brightness.

Is this string suitable for short-scale basses?

No, this is a long-scale string designed for instruments with a scale length of up to 38 inches. It may not fit or intonate correctly on short-scale instruments.

Is the PBB130 a coated string?

No, this string is uncoated. This design choice provides a more natural feel and a very responsive playing experience.

Where is this string manufactured?

D'Addario manufactures this string in the USA, ensuring strict quality control and consistent engineering standards.

Can I use this on an electric bass guitar?

While it could physically be installed, phosphor bronze strings are designed for acoustic resonance and may not interact with standard magnetic pickups as efficiently as nickel or steel strings.

What is the typical price for a single PBB130 string?

The typical price for this single string is approximately 8 GBP, making it an affordable option for repairs or custom sets.

How does phosphor bronze affect the tone?

Phosphor bronze provides a full-bodied, balanced tone that offers clear note definition, helping the bass blend well in acoustic mixes.

Does this string offer good tuning stability?

Yes, D'Addario engineers these strings for dependable performance and high tuning stability, even during rigorous play.

Is this string sold as a set or a single?

The PBB130 is sold as a single string, allowing for individual replacements or the assembly of custom sets.

What is the maximum scale length supported?

This long-scale string is built to accommodate acoustic basses with a scale length of up to 38 inches.

Is this string recommended for recording?

Yes, its clear definition and balanced tonal character make it a solid choice for recording sessions where acoustic clarity is required.

Gear article

D'Addario PBB130 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Bass Single String

The D'Addario PBB130 is a phosphor bronze single string designed for long-scale acoustic bass guitars. It is engineered to provide a balanced, full-bodied tone with clear note definition, suitable for recording and live performance applications.

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Overview and Design

The D'Addario PBB130 is a precision-engineered single string for acoustic bass, featuring a phosphor bronze winding. This specific string is a .130 gauge component, often used as a replacement or part of a custom-gauged set. It is manufactured in the USA using high-quality materials to ensure tuning stability and structural integrity.

Designed specifically for long-scale instruments, it accommodates string tension and length for basses with scales up to 38 inches. As an uncoated string, it focuses on providing a natural tactile experience and immediate response, which is often preferred by players who prioritise traditional feel and tone over the extended lifespan of coated alternatives.

Tonal Characteristics

The PBB130 is characterised by its phosphor bronze construction, a material choice known for its specific harmonic profile. It offers a warm yet bright sound, striking a balance that prevents the acoustic bass from sounding either too muddy or overly metallic.

Key sonic features include: * Clear note definition across the low register. * Full-bodied resonance that complements the natural woody acoustics of the instrument. * A balanced frequency response that allows the bass to blend effectively within acoustic ensembles.

Applications and Suitability

This string is suitable for a wide range of musical contexts, from home practice to professional studio recording. Because it is sold as a single string, it is particularly useful for: * Replacing a broken or worn-out string without needing to purchase a full set. * Creating custom tension sets for players who prefer non-standard gauge combinations. * Maintaining a consistent sound profile across the instrument by using the same series and material as other strings in the set.

It is an ideal choice for acoustic bassists who require a dependable, traditional phosphor bronze sound for genres like folk, bluegrass, and acoustic rock.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to nickel-wound or stainless steel bass strings, the PBB130 Phosphor Bronze offers a warmer and more 'acoustic' character that interacts better with the hollow chambers of acoustic bass guitars. Unlike coated strings, which may have a slightly dampened high-end, the PBB130 provides a more immediate, bright attack.

While D'Addario produces various orchestral and electric strings—such as the Zyex violin series or M-Steel electric guitar sets—the PBB series is specifically voiced for the lower frequencies and larger scale requirements of the acoustic bass, ensuring the instrument retains its distinct unplugged volume and clarity.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the gauge of the D'Addario PBB130?: The gauge of this specific single string is .130, which is typically used for the lowest string on an acoustic bass.
What material is used for the winding?: The string features a phosphor bronze winding, which is known for its balance of warmth and brightness.
Is this string suitable for short-scale basses?: No, this is a long-scale string designed for instruments with a scale length of up to 38 inches. It may not fit or intonate correctly on short-scale instruments.
Is the PBB130 a coated string?: No, this string is uncoated. This design choice provides a more natural feel and a very responsive playing experience.
Where is this string manufactured?: D'Addario manufactures this string in the USA, ensuring strict quality control and consistent engineering standards.
Can I use this on an electric bass guitar?: While it could physically be installed, phosphor bronze strings are designed for acoustic resonance and may not interact with standard magnetic pickups as efficiently as nickel or steel strings.
What is the typical price for a single PBB130 string?: The typical price for this single string is approximately 8 GBP, making it an affordable option for repairs or custom sets.
How does phosphor bronze affect the tone?: Phosphor bronze provides a full-bodied, balanced tone that offers clear note definition, helping the bass blend well in acoustic mixes.
Does this string offer good tuning stability?: Yes, D'Addario engineers these strings for dependable performance and high tuning stability, even during rigorous play.
Is this string sold as a set or a single?: The PBB130 is sold as a single string, allowing for individual replacements or the assembly of custom sets.
What is the maximum scale length supported?: This long-scale string is built to accommodate acoustic basses with a scale length of up to 38 inches.
Is this string recommended for recording?: Yes, its clear definition and balanced tonal character make it a solid choice for recording sessions where acoustic clarity is required.