SUNGHWAN BYUN - BROKEN VALENTINE
"As a bassist and producer, I never compromise when it comes to low-end sound. Whether I’m playing powerful riffs that shake stadium stages or recording crisp lines in the studio, I insist on one thing above all else: a powerful attack, clarity, and stable tension that doesn’t break easily. In particular, the DR NICKEL LO-RIDER (45-125) guarantees an overwhelming presence that cuts right through even the roughest mixes. But the true appeal of these strings doesn’t stop there. When expressing Broken Valentine’s signature lyrical and dramatic songs, the strings deliver an incredibly faithful reproduction of the deep, warm resonance that maximizes the song’s emotional arc. They deliver not only the power required for a raw, heavy sound but also the deep, rich emotion that completes the song’s narrative during lyrical performances. Whether on stage or in the studio, DR is the only string set that allows me to perfectly control both the raw heaviness and the delicate narrative of modern rock."
PRODUCTS
Nickel Lo-Rider™
Nickel-Plated Hexagonal Core Bass Strings
Model: NMH5-45
Nickel Lo-Rider™ bass strings are specifically designed for a softer feel and a traditional warm nickel sound. With nickel-plated steel wound on a hexagonal core wire, Nickel Lo-Rider™ bass strings have an even, long lasting and loud tone with a strong midrange growl. They are an excellent string for fretless basses and funk.
BIO
Sunghwan Byun is the bassist, leader, and producer of Broken Valentine, one of South Korea’s leading post-grunge and alternative rock bands. Known for his explosive energy that commands the stage, his uncompromising heaviness, and his razor-sharp low-end tone, he has been a leading figure in the Asian rock scene for over 20 years. After proving their capabilities on the global stage by winning the Grand Prize at the 2008 *Asian Beat Grand Final*, Broken Valentine solidified their strong standing by headlining major music festivals both domestically and internationally. At the core of it all, Sunghwan Byun has built a reputation as the band’s rock-solid backbone—a bassist and producer who meticulously crafts their sound. Characterized by a crisp, aggressive, and heavy tone coupled with a solid groove, his bass lines have served as the bedrock supporting Broken Valentine’s signature heavy sound. Furthermore, he demonstrates a broad musical spectrum that perfectly embraces not only the band’s raw, heavy sound but also their uniquely lyrical and dramatic songs. His delicate tone-shaping and dynamic playing, which maximize the narrative of each song, are key elements that complete Broken Valentine’s musical depth and multifaceted charm.
Instagram: @bvbass_sunghwan