Exploring the Use of Roundwound Strings on Fretless Basses

While flatwound strings are the standard choice for fretless basses, roundwound strings can provide a unique and desired sound, especially for those who prefer a brighter, more pronounced attack and sustain. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and drawbacks of using roundwound strings on fretless basses, drawing inspiration from the experiences of experienced bass players and luthiers, as well as the pioneering work of Jaco Pastorius.

Understanding the Differences

Roundwound strings and flatwound strings are the two main types of bass strings, and each has its unique characteristics. Flatwound strings are smooth and produce a warmer, more mellow tone, making them ideal for fretless basses that require a certain level of fingerboard smoothness. On the other hand, roundwound strings have a louder, brighter tone and a more aggressive attack, which can suit various genres, including rock and funk.

Routing the Tone: Jaco Pastorius and Roto Sound Swing Bass Roundwound Strings

One of the pioneers of using roundwound strings on a fretless bass was the legendary bassist, Jaco Pastorius. He utilized Roto Sound Swing Bass roundwound strings on his Fender Jazz bass, which became a defining characteristic of his sound. His choice of strings not only highlighted his playing style but also influenced many modern bass players who seek a balanced tone with plenty of attack.

The Roto Sound Swing Bass 66's that Pastorius used are known for their crisp and articulate tone, which perfectly complemented the naked rosewood fingerboard on his bass. This combination of roundwound strings and fingerboard material created a unique sound that is still celebrated today.

Personal Experiences and Preferences

Many bass players have unique preferences when it comes to string choice. For example, Samuel](true_name "Samuel"), a professional bass player and luthier, exclusively uses Rotosound Swing Bass 66's on his basses. Unlike flatwound strings, which might not produce his desired tone, roundwound strings provide the "mwah" sound that he wants to maintain. Samuel even builds his own fretless basses, using custom configurations and electronics, ensuring that the strings he uses perfectly match his sound vision.

Another bass player who has incorporated roundwound strings into his setup is Matt](true_name "Matt"). He typically uses nickel roundwounds on his instruments. For his Fender fretless Jazz Bass, he experienced minimal wear on the rosewood fingerboard. On his Pedulla Buzz bass, which features an ebony fingerboard with a polyester coating, the wear was also minimal, indicating that the right string material and playing technique can significantly reduce the impact on the fingerboard.

Experimenting with Different Types of Roundwounds

While nickel roundwounds are popular, some bass players are adventurous and try different types of roundwound strings. John](true_name "John"), for instance, has experimented with steel roundwounds on his Pedulla Buzz bass. Although he found the results satisfying, he was cautious about using them on the Fender's naked wood. He ultimately chose D'Addario XL170 strings, which offer a satisfying buzz and are cost-effective enough to change frequently, ensuring a fresh tone.

Conclusion

The choice between roundwound and flatwound strings on a fretless bass is a matter of individual preference and playing style. Roundwound strings can provide a brighter and more aggressive tone, which some players prefer for their chosen genre. However, it's essential to consider the material of the fingerboard and playing technique to minimize wear and tear. Fretless bass players like Jaco Pastorius and modern bassists like Samuel, Matt, and John have shown that using roundwound strings can be a viable and enjoyable option.

Ultimately, the most important factor is the sound. Whether you prefer a warmer, mellow tone or a brighter, more aggressive attack, the right strings can bring out the best in your fretless bass. So why not experiment and find the strings that give you the sound you want?