RotoSound Jazz Electric Bass Monel Flatwound Extra Long Scale, .045 - .105, RS77EL

RotoSound Jazz Electric Bass Monel Flatwound Extra Long Scale, .045 - .105, RS77EL

UPC: 686194000332

The story of Rotosound and its emergence as a world-leading brand began in the 1950s. Company founder James How, then a violinist, was inspired by the film "The Third Man" and its distinctive zither music. Enthralled by the sound, he purchased a zither, despite it lacking a full set of strings.

Driven by his passion for zither music, James sought to master the instrument. However, zithers were scarce in 1950s Britain and often in poor condition, leading James to acquire over 250 zithers. Using his engineering skills, he created his own zither strings, eventually stringing all his zithers at a time when the instrument was immensely popular. Selling these zithers funded the development of new string-making machines, revolutionizing the industry. Within three years, James established the first semi-automated string winding plant in England, and possibly the world.

Initially, the product was named "Top Strings," but since such a common name couldn't be registered, it evolved into "Rotop," and finally "Rotosound." As guitars became increasingly popular, James How strings were supplied to prominent brands like Vox, Burns, Hagstrom, Hoyer, EKO, Guild, Goya, and Watkins.

Expanding to other stringed instruments, James produced strings for the Double Bass, creating the RS90 Supreme set, which were used by over 60 orchestras and 100 notable soloists worldwide. By the early 1960s, Rotosound strings were played by renowned artists such as Jimi Hendrix, John Entwistle of The Who, Chris Squire of Yes, and John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin. This global exposure fueled demand for the company's products with minimal overseas marketing.

In 1963, bass players faced issues with flatwound strings' lack of tone and definition. Collaborating with top bassists, James developed the Swing Bass RS66, an innovative string combining stainless steel and round wire. This high-output string set a new industry standard, maintaining its handmade craftsmanship to this day. Another notable set, the Black Nylon "Tru Bass," was famously used by Sir Paul McCartney on several Beatles tracks.

The 1970s saw further innovations with the introduction of the Superwound "Piano String Design" bass string in 1974. This string, used by Stanley Clarke and Mark King of Level 42, offered piano-like brilliance, sustain, and volume unmatched by other bass strings. The RS6006 Spacer set followed, designed to resist sweat and last three times longer than standard sets, with color-coded silks for identification.

In 1987, Rotosound created the Swingmaster, a hybrid set combining elements of the RS66LD and RS66LC sets. This 40-60-80-100 gauge set has become a global standard. With the decline of the rock era, Rotosound adapted, supporting new bands like Kula Shaker, Oasis, and Supergrass. Renowned bassists such as Jonathan Noyce of Jethro Tull and Geddy Lee of Rush continue to favor Rotosound strings.

Today, Rotosound maintains its reputation for sound quality, durability, and value, catering to a wide range of musicians and ensuring a set to suit every need and budget.