Why are some bass strings tapered?
There are two popular theories that suggest a tapered design is better than non-tapered. The first theory suggests that having too much mass at the string’s fulcrum point (the bridge saddle) effects performance, particularly stability and clarity. In theory, tapering eliminates the problem. The second theory suggests, by eliminating the windings from seating on the saddle, tuning performance can be improved. In theory, tapering also eliminates this problem. Is any of this true?…you be the judge.