If you play the double bass long enough, you’ll eventually notice how much your sound can shift based on something as small as rosin. People commenting on my socials ask me all the time what rosin I use, and the short answer is: I often reach for Pop’s Rosin. But the real answer takes a little more explaining, because rosin is one of those deceptively simple tools that may shape your tone, your articulation, and even your confidence under the bow.
So let’s break down why Pop’s could be a great fit for many players, why it works for me in certain situations, and what you might want to consider if you're deciding between rosins.
What Makes The Pop’s Rosin Stand Out?
According to BassViolinShop, Pop’s Rosin was created by Len “Pops” Manno, who played double bass for 41 years in the Houston Symphony. It's hand-mixed in small batches in Houston, TX. The Chamberlain Music notes that Pop’s rosin is extremely soft, light amber, packed in a hinged plastic container, and has been used by bass players for more than 30 years.
The Pop’s Rosin has developed a reputation for being one of the softest and stickiest bass rosins available. That quality can make your bow feel more “locked in” when you start a note, especially if you want a strong, immediate attack. The response can feel quick, full, and satisfying, which is why so many bassists rely on it.
The Gollihur Music notes that the Pop’s Rosin leans toward the sticky side and may help players get cleaner articulation with only a small amount applied. They mention that softer rosins like Pop’s could be especially helpful in colder or drier climates, where harder rosins sometimes struggle to grab the string. They also highlight one important detail: a FRESH Pop’s Rosin works best, because it may become less effective when exposed to air. Keeping the lid tightly sealed could extend its life and performance.
Jason Heath from Double Bass HQ also talks about the “immediacy of attack” that a fresh cake of Pop’s can create. He notes how satisfying the stickiness can feel and how quickly a bow stroke may speak with new rosin.
Why I Personally Use Pop’s
I’ve experimented with a lot of gear over the years, from strings to bows to rosin that could work for different musical styles. Pop’s fits into my setup for a simple reason: it offers power without forcing you to work too hard for it.
When I’m playing pieces that require clear articulation or I want more bite at the start of each note, Pop’s gives me that extra security. The bass feels responsive. The bow feels grounded. The sound comes out warm and bold.
At the same time, I always encourage players to try different rosins because your climate, your strings, and your bow can all affect how any rosin behaves. The Pop’s Bass Rosin might feel perfect to you, or you may discover you prefer something a little harder, like Carlsson Swedish rosin. There’s no universal choice, only what works for your bass and your hands.
Where You Can Get The Pop’s Rosin
The Pop’s Bass Rosin is widely available and usually affordable. You may find it through:
- Bass Rosin Store
- Gollihur Music
- Amazon
- Many local bass shops
A typical price may sit around 25 USD, depending on where you get it.
My Final Thoughts
A rosin is one of the smallest investments you can make in your sound, but it might have a huge impact on how your bass responds. The Pop’s Rosin may not be perfect for every player in every climate, but it could give you clarity, grip, and the kind of attack that makes your bass feel alive under the bow.
If you’ve been curious about my setup, that’s why Pop's shows up in my case.
Got more gear questions? Feel free to ask! I love diving into the details when it can help you understand your sound better. :)