Universal Bass Strings

[jpage@capecod.net]

>Dear list,
>   It's been about 2 years since I last used a universal bass string.  The
>last two that I used were dead, so I stopped using them opting to take
>string measurements and call them into one of the suppliers. It's true the
>strings have been stored in my car for quite some time and I'm sure the
>heat and humidity caused them to go dead.  My question is: does anyone have
>a way of predicting if a universal bass string is dead before installing
>it?  Also, does anyone have a quick method for removing the excess copper
>wrap from universals?
>   Ted Simmons
>
Ted,
        I stopped using uni's 20 yr ago. I found that storage/cartage was
more of a
problem than having the option of instant-temporary replacement. If a splice
doesn't hold (even on speaking length - it does work), I phone the specs and
have
it drop shipped to the customer for the next time I'm in that town or next
tuning.
If a string is needed that urgently, overnight shipping; or getting one out
of a
similar Steinway (concert desparation).
        What damage does the hex core do to the agraffee or pressure bar?
On any good piano the uni is only temporary until the proper string arrives.
And,
if it's one of a bi-chord; I may replace the pair to insure match (harmonic).
        To remove the excess copper, twist the excess opposite the winding and
slide off. Unwrap winding a few turns at the cut first, hold the unwound
section
between fingers and whip the string in the direction opp. winding, slide off.
Long stretches need to be done in sections.  Heavy copper still needs to be
done *a mano*. As I recall (it's been a  l o n g  time), that's how I did it.
Jon Page
Cape Cod. Mass
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