Why do roundwounds have less longevity than flatwounds?

[Christcr]

That's one of the better reasons I've heard for not trying EB Cobalt flats.

Yep, those who like the typical "flatwound sound" probably aren't going to like the cobalt flats. They tend to appeal more to guys that like the roundwound sound even though they don't quite get there (close). I think the best way I could explain what my ears hear is that your standard flats have more of a "frowny face" EQ curve that heavily favors the left side of the mouth (so sort of a frowny Billy Idol smirk) and typical rounds have more a "smiley face" EQ curve (Like say a smiling Linda Ronstadt in 1975 ). Well, the cobalt flats are closer to the smiley face than they are the frowny face... I know, a really WEIRD analogy, but that's the way I hear it.

 

[J-Bassomatic]

Roundwounds have all those valleys in between all those ridges to collect skin, oil and general gunk that makes them get dull. Flats are smooth. Just in case you wanted someone to answer your question.

So in a short time Round wounds become flats? Maybe that explains why I never change my strings?
I worked with a guitarist who said (sarcastically) "well, it was in tune when I bought it"

 

[GIBrat51]

Flatwounds last longest because the Earth is flat. Roundwounds die off quickly because they are contrary to nature.

Exactly so. And people who foolishly insist on using rounds invariably wind up;
like this... flatwounds are the True Way, brothers and sisters. Join us, and be spared this horrible fate...