Rotosound Flats - Which Gauge?

[theevilplankton]

Currently using Rotosound nickels, 45-105. Nice, but I'm wanting to go down a flats route.

Looking to go for the Rotosound ones.....however, any suggestions on gauge? Am I better off sticking to 45-105? Only ask as I have read they play a little differently from the rounds. I used to use Fender flats, some years back.

I'd like to keep any instrument adjustments to a minimum, as my tech expertise ends at a quick crank of the truss rod!

 

[michael_t]

Currently using Rotosound nickels, 45-105. Nice, but I'm wanting to go down a flats route.

Looking to go for the Rotosound ones.....however, any suggestions on gauge? Am I better off sticking to 45-105? Only ask as I have read they play a little differently from the rounds. I used to use Fender flats, some years back.

I'd like to keep any instrument adjustments to a minimum, as my tech expertise ends at a quick crank of the truss rod!

Roto Nickel Rounds 45-105 = 184.97 lbs. in total tension.
Roto 77 Flats 40-100 = 178.57 lbs. in total tension.
Roto 77 Flats 45-105 = 214.41 lbs. in total tension.

Go with the 40-100 set for the flats as they're the closest in total tension to the Nickel rounds 45-105. The flats are also stiffer in overall playing feel, so it's better to go with lighter gauges for playing comfort as well.

 

[GIBrat51]

Roto Nickel Rounds 45-105 = 184.97 lbs. in total tension.
Roto 77 Flats 40-100 = 178.57 lbs. in total tension.
Roto 77 Flats 45-105 = 214.41 lbs. in total tension.

Go with the 40-100 set for the flats as they're the closest in total tension to the Nickel rounds 45-105. The flats are also stiffer in overall playing feel, so it's better to go with lighter gauges for playing comfort as well.

^^THIS^^ As usual, michael_t's said everything that needs to be said. I use the 45-105 Roto 77s myself, but they're on basses that I always play with a pick. I've played flats - usually heavy ones - for 50+ years; I'm quite used to stiff strings and high tension. But, that's just me. I most definitely concur with michael_t's recommendation...

 

[theevilplankton]

Thanks chaps!

I've ordered a 45-105 set.....knowing they're stiffer.....but I'm primarily a pick player. So hoping for flat thump without going fingerstyle. Just find rounds to zingy these days.

That's the plan.......I do love the Lynott/Glover, etc., way with Roto flats.

 

[theevilplankton]

Update......fitted on Monday. Few very small truss adjustments, tiny increments over a few days that didn't even add up to a quarter turn. Action now super low, just as I love it.

Love the feel, and cranked up, the sound amazing! Exactly the tone I was after.

Only downside is that the D and G are massively duller than E and A. Hopefully not an issue, as they should eventually all sound as dull once they're worn in a bit!