Based on the comments, I think ss strings would not be for me. I also think the fret wear is going to be a serious issue regardless of the downplay. I didn't see any comments from anyone that was not 'just trying' them. (Aside from the guy with the allergy.)
Fretwear is measurable after just a few months (in my experience) using nickel plated. For similar reasons, I'm not overwhelmed by the extra cost of a plecking.
...so ever since then, I always hang on to the buckle.
