What is the specific gauge of the low B string in the ECB81-5SL set?

The low B string in this specific 5-string set has a gauge of .132. This provides a deep and rich low-end response suitable for extended-range basses.

What does 'Super Long' scale mean for D'Addario bass strings?

Super Long scale refers to the length of the string from the ball end to the start of the silk or taper. These strings are designed to fit instruments with a scale length of up to 38 inches.

Which musical genres are these strings best suited for?

The manufacturer recommends these strings for Jazz, R&B, and Pop. Their warm and mellow tone provides the foundational low end often required in these styles.

Are the ECB81-5SL strings flatwound or roundwound?

These are flatwound strings. They are constructed with a flattened stainless steel ribbon wire that is polished for a very smooth feel.

What is the typical price for a set of ECB81-5SL strings?

The typical price range for this 5-string set is approximately EUR 36. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and region.

How do D'Addario Chromes differ from traditional flatwounds?

Chromes are known for being slightly brighter than traditional flatwounds while maintaining a smooth feel. They offer a balance of mellow warmth and modern clarity.

Will these strings fit a standard 34-inch scale bass?

While they can be installed, they are specifically intended for 'Super Long' scales up to 38 inches. For a standard 34-inch bass, the regular long scale version (ECB81-5) is typically preferred.

What are the gauges for the entire 5-string set?

The gauges for the ECB81-5SL set are .045 (G), .065 (D), .080 (A), .100 (E), and .132 (B). This is considered a light gauge set.

What is the primary benefit of the polished surface on these strings?

The polished surface provides a smooth feel under the fingers and significantly reduces finger squeak and slide noise. It also makes the strings more resistant to dirt buildup.

Can these strings be used on a fretless bass?

Yes, flatwound strings like the ECB81-5SL are highly popular for fretless basses. The smooth surface helps protect the fingerboard from the wear and tear caused by roundwound strings.

Do these strings have a high magnetic output?

Yes, D'Addario Chromes are designed to deliver a high magnetic output. This ensures that the pickups capture a full and rich signal with plenty of low-end detail.

Are these strings available for 4-string basses?

Yes, while the ECB81-5SL is a 5-string set, D'Addario produces the ECB81 series in various configurations, including 4-string sets in both long and super long scales.

Gear article

D'Addario ECB81-5SL Chromes Flatwound 5-String Bass Strings

The D'Addario ECB81-5SL is a light-gauge 5-string flatwound bass guitar set designed for super long scale instruments. It is distinguished by its smooth polished surface, high magnetic output, and a deep, mellow tonal profile suitable for Jazz, R&B, and Pop genres.

DAddario ECB81-5SL 5-String Bass Guitar Strings Light 45-132

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Overview

The ECB81-5SL belongs to D'Addario's 'Chromes' series, which represents the brand's premier line of flatwound bass strings. This specific set is configured for 5-string basses, featuring a low B string to accommodate extended range playing. The strings are constructed using a flattened stainless steel ribbon wire which is then polished to a high sheen, resulting in a tactile feel that is significantly smoother than standard roundwound strings.

Construction and Fitment

A critical feature of the ECB81-5SL is its 'Super Long' designation. These strings are specifically engineered for basses with a string scale length of up to 38 inches. This makes them suitable for instruments with extra-long necks or those utilizing a 'string-through-body' bridge design where extra length is required to reach the tuning pegs. The gauges include .045, .065, .080, .100, and a substantial .132 for the low B string.

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Tonal Character

While flatwound strings are traditionally known for being dark, D'Addario Chromes are unique for maintaining a degree of top-end clarity despite their mellow nature. The ECB81-5SL provides a warm, rich low-bottom end, particularly noticeable in the .132 B string. This balance of 'thump' and definition allows the player to achieve vintage sounds without losing the presence necessary for modern Pop and R&B mixes.

Player Profile

These strings are primarily aimed at musicians who value a smooth physical feel and a reduced amount of finger noise. They are the 'flatwound choice' for Jazz players seeking a traditional walking bass sound, as well as R&B and Pop bassists who require a deep, foundational low end. The light gauge (.045) ensures that the strings remain playable and relatively flexible despite the high tension typically associated with flatwound construction.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard nickel roundwounds like the Ernie Ball Regular Slinky series, the ECB81-5SL offers significantly less harmonic 'zing' and a much longer lifespan due to the lack of gaps between windings where dirt can accumulate. In the context of other orchestral or speciality strings, such as Thomastik Spirocore or D'Addario's own violin strings, the ECB81-5SL remains a specialized tool for electric bassists needing specific scale lengths that standard sets cannot accommodate.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the specific gauge of the low B string in the ECB81-5SL set?: The low B string in this specific 5-string set has a gauge of .132. This provides a deep and rich low-end response suitable for extended-range basses.
What does 'Super Long' scale mean for D'Addario bass strings?: Super Long scale refers to the length of the string from the ball end to the start of the silk or taper. These strings are designed to fit instruments with a scale length of up to 38 inches.
Which musical genres are these strings best suited for?: The manufacturer recommends these strings for Jazz, R&B, and Pop. Their warm and mellow tone provides the foundational low end often required in these styles.
Are the ECB81-5SL strings flatwound or roundwound?: These are flatwound strings. They are constructed with a flattened stainless steel ribbon wire that is polished for a very smooth feel.
What is the typical price for a set of ECB81-5SL strings?: The typical price range for this 5-string set is approximately EUR 36. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and region.
How do D'Addario Chromes differ from traditional flatwounds?: Chromes are known for being slightly brighter than traditional flatwounds while maintaining a smooth feel. They offer a balance of mellow warmth and modern clarity.
Will these strings fit a standard 34-inch scale bass?: While they can be installed, they are specifically intended for 'Super Long' scales up to 38 inches. For a standard 34-inch bass, the regular long scale version (ECB81-5) is typically preferred.
What are the gauges for the entire 5-string set?: The gauges for the ECB81-5SL set are .045 (G), .065 (D), .080 (A), .100 (E), and .132 (B). This is considered a light gauge set.
What is the primary benefit of the polished surface on these strings?: The polished surface provides a smooth feel under the fingers and significantly reduces finger squeak and slide noise. It also makes the strings more resistant to dirt buildup.
Can these strings be used on a fretless bass?: Yes, flatwound strings like the ECB81-5SL are highly popular for fretless basses. The smooth surface helps protect the fingerboard from the wear and tear caused by roundwound strings.
Do these strings have a high magnetic output?: Yes, D'Addario Chromes are designed to deliver a high magnetic output. This ensures that the pickups capture a full and rich signal with plenty of low-end detail.
Are these strings available for 4-string basses?: Yes, while the ECB81-5SL is a 5-string set, D'Addario produces the ECB81 series in various configurations, including 4-string sets in both long and super long scales.