? Black Phoenix Bar Wear

David Farlow · Post by **David Farlow** » 17 Jan 2003 4:16 pm

Purchased a Carter Starter PSG a few weeks ago and the only bar I have at present is a Black Phoenix . My problem is that the black coating is really wearing off quickly. I read here that the Carter Starter is shipped from the factory with nickel strings. Also read that Stainless strings were harder on the finish of these types of bars. The coating is getting very rough and has worn through in a small spot. Still does not sound bad but looks like the bar is on its way out, sure has not lasted very long, even on nickel strings, if that is what they are. Has anyone out there had a real problem with this Black Phoenix bar like I have on nickel strings. Guess I had better order that BJS bar before long.

David

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Mark Kelchen · Post by **Mark Kelchen** » 18 Jan 2003 7:36 am

If you get a BJS, you will NEVER be sorry. Recently I bought my first BJS in the new 15/16ths size. It is VERY slick on the strings and maintains excellent, and consistant tone. I also got a Red Rajah bar that gets a lot of use. The coated bar seems to change the tone somewhat, but also sounds good. Coating not wearing as of yet. Being a new steel player, I have learned there is a lot of fish bait out there designed to catch the fisherman, and not the fish. I look at the BJS as not only a great bar, but an investment.Several great reports on this forum make reference to the BJSs. Bobbe Seymour has a good stock of the BJS bars at Steel Guitar Nashville. Trying one now, may save a few bucks in the long run.

[This message was edited by Mark Kelchen on 18 January 2003 at 07:37 AM.]

Jack Klein · Post by **Jack Klein** » 18 Jan 2003 12:07 pm

I have a Red Rajah that is wearing badly.
very dull already. got it at ISGC last labor day. I've read where they are guaranteed for life but can't remember who to contact. maybe I have stainless strings but there was no mention of that when I bought it. Jack

Rick Aiello · Post by **Rick Aiello** » 18 Jan 2003 3:43 pm

Email Chuck at: chuckguitar@msn.com

He will replace your bars ... and probably throw in a pair of his "coated fingerpicks" ...

His new black powder is much harder than the originals and the Red Rajahs ....

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My Steel Shoes Site

Larry Bell · Post by **Larry Bell** » 19 Jan 2003 5:09 am

Chuck makes some great products -- I LOVE the coated picks and the Rajas work great for non-pedal, but the Black Phoenix is not the best choice for pedal steel IN MY OPINION. If you use one, then use a BJS for 15 seconds, you'll never go back to the Phoenix. The coating is a great idea that doesn't quite work in that application. (once again, IMHO)

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Larry Bell - email: larry@larrybell.org - gigs - Home Page
2000 Fessenden S-12 8x8, 1969 Emmons S-12 6x6, 1971 Dobro

David Farlow · Post by **David Farlow** » 21 Jan 2003 5:01 am

The very day that I posted this problem I received an e-mail from Chuck in response to the post. He is backing his product and will replace the Black Phoenix. I just mailed him the bad one and will be getting a replacement. I appreciate doing business with people that will stand behind their product. Also ordred a BJS bar as many of you have recommended. Thanks for your input.

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