Rotosounds and Frets?

SGT. Pepper · #1 03-13-2007, 05:30 PM

How bad are they on frets? I here mixed opinions about them so im not sure myself. I have only used them once or twice and didn't keep them on that long.
I am a melodic style player, and I don't use much vibrato or do bends. With that in consideration would Rotos still be detramental to my frets? I really dig the tone from them but I don't want to ruin my frets. All those experienced with Rotos please advise.

saxnbass · #2 03-13-2007, 05:32 PM

More than usual fretwear, but not that bad. Use them if you like the sound.

CrapolaRockNRol · #3 03-13-2007, 06:11 PM

There was a time when there was reason for concern about Rotos and fret wear.
That was long ago, when fret wire was nickel, ca 1970 and before.
Now most frets are steel.
Know what I mean?

G

detracti · #4 03-13-2007, 06:14 PM

I have two newer basses - a G&L L2K from like '98, and a Fender Precision that is newer.

I used to run the classic Rotosound strings, but I do a lot of vibrato and bends. I had metal shavings and grooves on both basses in a very short time. Not enough to require immediate attention, but enough to make me stop using them.

I get the nickel-plated ones now. They don't sound as ballsy, but its an okay compromise.