Easier on fingers, roundwound or flatwound strings?

[vibrostrat43]

I actually had more trouble playing flatwounds when I had them...they seemed to make my fingers want to stick to them, they were the Fender flatwounds, and I guess flatwounds just aren't for me. Just my experience, and I didn't like the dark tone either. Of course some roundwounds are way too bright for me.

I agree with what everyone has said here though, they definitely feel much different, and are harder on your fingers in different ways

[Lublin]

I love D'Addario Chromes! Give them a try. Great zing and the comfort of flatwounds.

With that said, flats will provide more friction due to increased surfaced area.

[tkozal]

Flatwounds: Higher tension (save for TI's etc): Need more finger strength, Can do very low action.

Roundwounds: Lower tension, typically, and harder on the pads due to the edges.

[ChipGraham]

i like the half-round strings. a little goodness from both worlds.

[Master Flash]

Without a doubt, flatwounds. So comfortable and soft. I play the D'Addario ECB81s on my EB-3.

[Bass Mentor]

I can see how flats may not work in a metal band....they were used quite a bit for the hits of the 60's and some of the 70's

[CavePassivePedals]

Originally Posted by Bass Mentor

I can see how flats may not work in a metal band

Steve Harris of Iron Maiden uses Rotosound flats - he has his own signature gauge

[russ]

After playing flats for the past 10+ years, I totally dislike the feel and sound of round wounds. I'll never go back!

[wolfmancharlie]

I have Chromes on all 9 of my basses. So smooth on the fingers great tones available. Won't be seeing rounds on mine anymore.

[s2y]

Originally Posted by CavePassivePedals

Steve Harris of Iron Maiden uses Rotosound flats - he has his own signature gauge

Yep. He hits the holy hell out of those strings. Up until recently, I had no idea he used flatwound strings.

Anyway, after playing enough, my fingers don't care too much either way. I just grab whichever bass/strings I want for particular sounds.

[NashSG]

I think flatwounds are way easier on the hands, especially the pick hand.

[Dr Git]

The last bass i bought had Rotosound 77 Flats and i love them..