Certainly not normal (one exposed core) for the Stick. Or the Warr Guitar. Or any set of strings I've ever seen.

ok.... what do we mean by exposed core, do we mean that the core is exposed where the string passes over the bridge ??

I had a complete set of exposed core strings on my Steinberger L2 prototype, and man, she sang like a grand piano !!

The clarity and definition not to mention dynamics of the sound of those strings I could never achieve with regular bass strings but you do have to make bridge adjustments as the action changes dramatically when going with exposed core strings.

Sorry for the long delay.
Yes, exposed core the way stick strings are. Also the same on Warr guitars. I think it makes a differance, but it's probably all in my head and not my ears.

Glad you received it back. What a nightmare! I had a similar experience with that company and will never buy from them again. Nor will I recommend them. Go with Stick Enterprises or Hanewinckle.