ROTOSOUND 66's OR SWING BASS 66's?

[OPBASSMAN1994]

I have been looking into Rotos, as I know that Geddy, Squire, JPJ, Entwistle and many other notable lead-oriented bassists used them, but I was puzzled, at seeing the standard 66's, and the "Swing Bass" 66's. the only difference I could find is that the Swings have nickle over steel, while the other 66's have nothing but steel. My question is, which will last longer, not eat frets as quickly, sound more punchy, twangy, etc. while still having depth? Tone experience is what I'm asking for. Are the Swings better or the normal 66's. And on a less important note, which ones do/did Squire, Entwistle, and Lee use? Could someone point me toward a recording that had a good example of both types? Thanks.

[guroove]

The steels will be brighter initially, and also eat the frets slightly faster, but the nickels will maintain their sound slightly longer.

[LJ Michaaels]

I uesd Roto strings back in the 70's and 80's. found them to be REAL hard on the frets
Went to D'Addario XL nickel round wounds and never looked back

[pacojas]

Originally Posted by LJ Michaaels

I uesd Roto strings back in the 70's and 80's. found them to be REAL hard on the frets

i've been using Roto's since '78 and never had much fret wear. every few years i take a small fine file and do a quick touch-up. maybe my touch is much lighter than some. YMMV

[I<34080]

They aren't two different strings as you're describing them though, they are both Rotosound Swingbass 66s, just in either stainless steel or nickel.