It is said that nickel is to steel as tube is to transistor, and the Pyramid Gold True Vintage Flatwound strings absolutely prove it. Boasting loads of warmth and twang, the 13s can be a bit heavy, but as your fingers get used to them, the feel is very solid and hands-on. After a gig with these bad boys you can tell by the gentle burning sensation in your finger joints that you have put in a good day's work. That said, as an ex bassist I feel right at home with them. They're harmonically rich, long-lasting and, above all, can take a serious beating.