The two different types of strings you are most likely referring to are roundwound strings and flatwound strings. Some nice pictures: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strings_(music)
It is down to personal preference as to which strings are best for an archtop guitar. Chromes and flatwound strings are both popular. Light gauge strings are preferable as they put less pressure on the neck.
George Benson typically uses flatwound guitar strings, which contribute to his smooth, warm tone that is characteristic of jazz and fusion music. He often opts for a lighter gauge, allowing for easier playability and bending. While he may experiment with different brands and types, flatwound strings remain a staple in his setup to achieve his signature sound.
Jaco used Rotosound round-gauge strings gauged 46-63-80-102, but it would be easier to get them in 45-105 gauge.
Yes, if the gauges are similarly matched to a set of standard guitar strings made for that particular guitar. Violin strings are flatwound, so the tone would be more muted, nice for an archtop jazz guitar. Normal modern guitar strings are roundwound, making the tone brighter and more zingy.
Jaco Pastorius, the renowned bassist, was known for using stainless steel roundwound strings on his fretless bass guitars. These strings provided a bright and clear tone, ideal for his signature fretless playing style. The stainless steel material also offered durability and resistance to corrosion, important for a professional musician like Jaco who played extensively.
1.000.000$ easy
George had one of the first 12 string electric guitars which he used on Help!
horse hair, and wood.
There are four-string, five-string, and even six-string basses. If you are starting out, go for a four-string. You can play pretty much anything on a four-string bass, and it's best not to complicate matters when you are just getting started. The advantage of the five-string is that it goes lower, down to a B. Modern funk and pop often use these lower notes for a heavy bottom. The six-string bass extends the instrument's scale on both ends.
Originally, the mandolin had 6 strings. Later designs included 8 strings (4 pairs) and the strings were plucked with a plucktrum. Other designs have multiples of 4 strings, up to a maximum of 16 strings.
Violin strings can be made out of a variety of material. Metal strings are very common such as aluminium or steal. Nylon strings are also avalible. Originally, when violins where first invented, the strings where made out of a thread of cats gutt wound very tightly but it is very hard to get cats gutts strings now.