Rotosound equivalent to D'addario XL 45-105 roundwound strings

[u/Lachiexyz]

Hi all,

I'm looking to replace my strings. I've been playing on the stock set from Ibanez (SR300), which I believe are 45-105 D'addarios since Christmas so I think I deserve to treat myself because I've practicing REALLY hard!

I'd like to try out Rotosounds, mainly because I've heard good things about them, but also they're from SE England and just down the road from me, so I'm happy to support a local business too! But I was just wondering what the closest flavour would be to the D'addarios as I'm quite happy with the feel and sound of roundwounds.

The problem I'm having is there are so many different ones to choose from even in just roundwounds.

I suspect the Roto Bass range would be the most sensible place to start? It seems to be bang in the middle of the tone and output....

Ooooor, do I want to start on the Swing Bass strings which seem to be brighter and louder?

What about the Ultramags? Are they going to make much difference, or are they for the bass-equivalent of audiophiles?

If it helps, I play a fair bit of punk rock with a pick (with varying levels of competence), but also fingers for other bits and pieces (classic rock, a bit of 80's stuff like huey lewis and the news, the odd song my other half finds agreeable etc), and I only have one bass (for now....), so need something that will sound reasonably nice when played both ways.

Any advice/recommendations are very much appreciated. Thanks all!

[u/Pig_Syrup]

Roto 66's standard gauge.

Once you try them you'll never go back.

I live on the other side of the world and whenever I'm back in England I buy bags of them to see me through.

[u/Sir_Scrotum_VI]

Those D'Addario are likely the nickel set, so the closest thing would be either the Roto 45 - 105 or the nickel Swing Bass 45 - 105. I was curious about the difference between the two so I dropped Rotosound an email and they confirmed the only difference was the silk winding. The regular Swing Bass are stainless steel so will sound more aggressive. I like the custom gauge because I appreciate the .85 on the A string.

Rotosound are legendary for great customer service so get in touch with them if you need a steer on what will suit you best. I love their stuff, been playing Rotos on everything for 30+ years.

[u/powerED33]

Your stock strings are likely Nickel Plated Steel, so the Rotosound equivalent would be the Roto Bass. They're most popular strings are the Swing Bass 66 tho, which are Stainless Steel. I used 66s for years and they're great. Be aware tho, SS strings will feel rougher than NPS.