Product Overview
Electric Bass RB Pure Nickel FLATWOUND Strings
Tension: Medium
Scale: Long Scale
Diameter: .045 .057 .077 .100
(note: the packaging is printed with low E at .104 and this is a misprint, confirmed by Optima. We also gauged them to find they are indeed .100. Optima's website states this too, but rest assured .100 is the gauge!)
ROUND CORE: as with any round core string, take caution when installing. If you bass requires a pre-cut, best practice is to bend the string at a 90 degree angle where it will naturally bend around the tuning peg, then cut at proper length to install. The bend "locks" the winding to the core.
With the 4440.L, OPTIMA introduces a flatwound bass string set inspired by the unmistakable tone of the early 1960s. Its foundation lies in a historical string concept from that era, closely associated with the classic sound of vintage Rickenbacker basses.
From the very first note, it becomes clear: this set does not follow modern trends. Instead, it delivers a warm, deep, and slightly muted tone that defined an entire generation of music.
A defining and intentional characteristic of this set is the low E string. Unlike modern flatwound sets, the E string is designed to sound noticeably darker and softer than the other three strings. This is not a flaw, but an essential part of the original vintage sound concept. It provides a deep, supportive low-end foundation that blends naturally into the overall tone, just as it did on many classic recordings of the 1960s.
Players accustomed to modern sets may initially notice this difference. However, it is precisely this unique response that gives the 4440.L its authentic character and vintage correctness. Compared to modern flatwound sets such as the 4099.L, the 4440.L offers less brightness but significantly more depth, warmth, and historical accuracy.
Key points:
- Inspired by historical flatwound string designs of the early 1960s
- Authentic vintage tone with a warm, rounded low end
- Intentionally darker and softer low E string for true vintage response
- Reduced overtones and a naturally blended sound profile
- Ideal for vintage-style bass setups and traditional tones
For players who do not just want to play, but to truly feel the sound of a defining musical era.
