Rotosound – British string legend since 1958

Rotosound is one of the world's most iconic string manufacturers. Since 1958, Rotosound strings have been proudly crafted in England and used by countless legendary artists—from The Beatles and The Who to Jimi Hendrix , Pink Floyd , Iron Maiden , and Nirvana . Rotosound strings have an unmistakable tone that set the tone for rock, punk, metal, funk, and grunge—and still set the standard for quality and character.

A story that starts with craftsmanship and passion

The Rotosound story begins in the 1950s with James How , a British violinist and engineer from Kent. In 1952, he was captivated by the sound of the zither, but when the strings for his instrument became unavailable, he decided to make them himself. Using a self-designed winding machine and sheer ingenuity, he produced the first handmade strings—the beginning of a revolution in string manufacturing.

In 1958, James and his brother Ron founded a company called Orchestral & Jazz Strings , which would later form the basis for Rotosound. Their first clients were notable: The Shadows, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. It quickly became clear that these new British strings had something special.

The birth of the Rotosound brand

In 1963 , the name Rotosound was officially born. The name combines the Latin "Roto" (round shape) with "sound"—a reference to the revolutionary roundwound string technology the company developed. This innovation gave guitars and basses a clarity and power previously unheard of.

A significant milestone followed in 1966 , when John Entwistle of The Who collaborated with James How to develop the famous RS66 Swing Bass strings. This model was an instant success—and is still used worldwide today. The unique combination of a steel core and a round winding provided greater tone definition, sustain, and power. It was the string that literally set the tone for modern rock music.

The era of rock legends

In the 1960s and 1970s, Rotosound became the hallmark of the British music scene. Jimi Hendrix and Noel Redding used Rotosound strings during their legendary London performances. Pink Floyd used them during the recording of Piper at the Gates of Dawn at Abbey Road Studios. Even a parody of a Rotosound ad appeared on the album The Who Sell Out – testament to their cultural impact.

Throughout the 1970s, Rotosound strings became standard equipment for countless artists: Chris Squire (Yes), Brian May (Queen), John Deacon , Herbie Flowers (Lou Reed), Phil Lynott (Thin Lizzy), and Paul Weller (The Jam). With their Swing Bass, Tru Bass, and Jazz Bass 77 series, they dominated the world stage. The Rotosound sound became the sound of a generation.

Innovation and craftsmanship

In addition to their famous roundwound strings, Rotosound continued to experiment with new designs. In 1974, the company introduced the Superwound series —a patented construction where only the core extends over the bridge, providing extra sustain and precise intonation. The 1980s saw new innovations such as the Linea™ (pressure-wound) strings and the Funkmaster series , used by Mark King (Level 42) and Geddy Lee (Rush).

Rotosound was also a pioneer in the field of effects pedals . The renowned Rotosound Fuzz from the 1960s—built in collaboration with Solasound and Vox—was re-released in 2012 and has since become a cult classic. The pedal line was later expanded to include vintage-style phasers, wah effects, and compressors, all with the same British build quality as their snares.

From punk to grunge – Rotosound remains the leader

In the 1970s and 1980s, punk bands like The Sex Pistols , The Damned , The Stranglers , and The Jam embraced Rotosound's powerful, raw sound. In the 1990s, bands like Nirvana , Pearl Jam , Oasis , and The Cure continued the Rotosound tradition. Their strings appeared on legendary albums like Nevermind (Nirvana) and Definitely Maybe (Oasis).

While musical trends changed, Rotosound remained true to its core: authentic British manufacturing, pure tone quality, and innovation. In the 2000s and 2010s, the company completely modernized its production lines, with every aspect still being handled in England. Thanks to automated winding machines, environmentally friendly packaging, and new coatings—such as the Nexus series —Rotosound remains one of the most progressive brands in the string world.

Legendary artists and modern ambassadors

Over the decades, Rotosound has collaborated with an impressive list of artists, including:

• John Entwistle (The Who)
• Steve Harris (Iron Maiden)
• Geddy Lee (Rush)
• Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, Sons of Apollo)
• Roger Waters (Pink Floyd)
• Chris Squire (Yes)
• Brian May (Queen)
• Duff McKagan (Guns N' Roses)
• Mark King (Level 42)
• Michael Amott (Arch Enemy)

These artists have each left their mark on music history – and Rotosound has been there every step of the way. From Iron Maiden 's fat bass lines to Queen 's sparkling guitars, the Rotosound sound remains distinctive and powerful.

A modern brand with classic roots

Today, Rotosound is still run by the How family from their factory in Sevenoaks, Kent . Under the leadership of Jason How, the brand has further automated its production, while maintaining the British quality standards that have distinguished it since 1958. The machines, partly designed by James How himself, are still used and maintained to ensure maximum consistency and tonal balance.

Rotosound strings are shipped in environmentally friendly, airtight packaging that keeps them fresh and prevents oxidation. Each product is rigorously tested before leaving the factory – a tradition that has endured for over sixty years.

Popular Rotosound series

• RS66 Swing Bass: The original roundwound bass string, famous for its clarity and punch.
• Tru Bass 88: Black nylon bass strings with a deep, double bass-like tone.
• Jazz Bass 77: Flatwound strings with a warm, classic sound – a favorite with jazz and soul bassists.
• Roto Guitar Strings: Nickel-wound strings with smooth playability.
• British Steels: Bright, stainless steel strings with that typical British punch.
• Nexus Coated Strings: Coated strings with a soft playing feel and long-lasting tone.

Rotosound at Viool-kopen.nl

At Viool-kopen.nl you'll find a carefully selected range of Rotosound violin strings . Each model combines over sixty years of experience with modern technology. Whether you're a rock fan, funk bassist, or metal guitarist – Rotosound offers the perfect string for your playing style.

Discover the Rotosound Strings range at Viool-kopen.nl and experience the power of British string tradition that has inspired generations of musicians.

In summary

Rotosound is more than a string brand—it's a heritage. Since 1958, the company has shaped the sound of rock 'n' roll, punk, grunge, and metal. With an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and musical expression, Rotosound remains the choice for musicians who refuse to compromise. From London to Los Angeles, from jazz to heavy metal—Rotosound has been setting the tone for over sixty years.