DR Strings UFO-40 Jonas Hellborg Signature Series
It’s a string recipe that sounds more like an order at Starbucks (“Light-gauge, round-core, pure-nickel single-wrap, please”). But for Jonas Hellborg, it’s the makings of the perfect bass string. More than a decade ago, Hellborg approached New Jersey’s DR Strings with the request for custom-spec bass strings. Since then, the two have worked together through countless iterations to arrive at DR’s newest addition to its product line, the UFO-40 Jonas Hellborg Signature Series, a 4-string set gauged .040, .060, .080, .100.
The UFO-40’s single-wrap design was born out of Hellborg’s assessment that a standard bass’s G string sounds more pure—with a stronger fundamental—than its larger counterparts (which he says tend to emphasize the first harmonic, an octave above the fundamental). Jonas theorized that this was due to G strings’ construction: Whereas lower strings typically combine inner and outer wraps around a steel core, most G strings utilize a single wrap. Hellborg also noted the use of single-wrap bass strings in concert grand pianos. Seeking both flexibility and clarity, Hellborg opted for a round—rather than hexagonal—core, since it has greater contact with the outer wrap.
Fundamental Feeling
Though the strings’ outer winding looked like it would be rough on the fingers, it actually wasn’t. The UFO-40s felt like no other roundwound I’ve tried, but that proved to be a good thing, as their nubby edges and springy feel invited me to stretch beyond the same tired test licks I often employ. The softer pure-nickel exterior (especially compared to stainless steel) minimized string chatter as I slid up and down the fingerboard, and I suspect it contributed to the strings’ agreeable high-end personality, which was forward, but not overbearing.
On a Lakland Darryl Jones 4-string, the UFOs had flexibility and give that was great for expressive vibrato and bends, yet they felt sufficiently firm and sounded more substantial than their light gauge might suggest. I’m not much of a slapper, but the string set’s pleasant top end and big bottom seemed to demand a bit of rough play. Pickstyle playing felt tight and sounded focused (a rare thing with strings this light), but the strings’ subtleties seemed best-captured fingerstyle.
A key concern for Hellborg in the set’s development was maintaining an even character across the fingerboard (an A played on the G string’s 2nd fret should sound identical to one played on the D string’s 7th fret, for example). The strings indeed possess a consistency of tone I haven’t encountered with other roundwounds. Notes played farther up the neck typically sound more muffled, but the Hellborg strings keep their resonant sound well beyond 1st position.
Quite simply, there’s no reason not to try out a set of DR’s UFO-40s to see if they’re to your taste. A simple and cheap way to pimp your bass, these unique strings just might steer your fingers to play in ways you haven’t tried before. And at $30, you’ll only have to skip a few of those nonfat, no-whip, sugar-free caramel macchiatos.
Made in U.S.A.
Warranty Defective string replacement
Street $30
Pros Clear, open fundamental; well balanced in all positions
Cons None
Bottom line A great way to explore new tones.
Contact (201) 599-0100 www.drstrings.com
