What is the gauge of the strings in the EPS170-5 set?

The set features light gauges consisting of .045, .065, .080, .100, and .130 inches.

What material is used for the wrap wire?

These strings utilize a specialized stainless steel alloy for the wrap wire, which is nickel-free.

Are these strings suitable for a 4-string bass?

No, this specific set is designed for 5-string basses as it includes a .130 gauge low B string.

What scale length do these strings support?

The EPS170-5 is designed for long-scale bass guitars, accommodating standard full-size instruments.

How does the Hex-Core design benefit the player?

The Hex-Core allows the wrap wire to grip the core more effectively, resulting in better tuning stability and more accurate intonation.

What kind of tone can I expect from ProSteels?

Expect a very bright and crunchy tone with high harmonic content and a punchy, tight low-end response.

Where are D'Addario EPS170-5 strings manufactured?

These strings are manufactured in the United States to exacting quality standards.

Are these strings safe for players with nickel allergies?

Yes, the ProSteels range features a nickel-free design, making them a suitable alternative for those with nickel sensitivities.

What is the typical price for this 5-string set?

The typical price range for this specific set is approximately £43 in the United Kingdom.

How are the strings protected before they are opened?

They are sealed in recyclable VCI bags which prevent corrosion and ensure the strings remain fresh until they are installed.

Can I earn rewards for purchasing these strings?

Yes, the packaging contains a code that can be registered with the D'Addario Players Circle rewards program.

How do these compare to nickel-wound strings?

ProSteels are significantly brighter and offer more magnetic output than nickel-wound strings, providing a more 'metallic' and aggressive sound.

Gear article

D'Addario EPS170-5 ProSteels 5-String Bass Strings

The D'Addario EPS170-5 is a set of light-gauge stainless steel strings designed specifically for 5-string bass guitars with a long scale length. These strings are engineered for maximum brightness and harmonic definition, utilizing a proprietary stainless steel alloy to enhance interaction with magnetic pickups.

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Technical Composition

The EPS170-5 set is constructed using a specialised stainless steel wrap wire wound over a high-carbon steel Hex-Core. This hexagonal core design is a signature D'Addario feature, intended to ensure the wrap wire grips the core tightly for improved tuning stability and accurate intonation. The nickel-free composition of the ProSteels series provides a distinct tactile feel and a high level of magnetic response compared to traditional nickel-plated sets.

Tonal Characteristics

ProSteels are marketed as D'Addario's brightest and most corrosive-resistant bass strings. The EPS170-5 set delivers a 'super-bright' tone characterized by crisp, harmonically rich highs and a tight, focused low end. This frequency response is designed to provide maximum definition, which is particularly beneficial for the low B-string on 5-string instruments, preventing the common issue of 'muddiness' in lower registers.

Playability and Gauge

As a 'Light' gauge set, the string diameters are .045, .065, .080, .100, and .130. This specific configuration strikes a balance between physical power and ease of play. The lower tension of the light gauge allows for easier string bending and a faster response, while the stainless steel wrap provides a smooth, consistent feel under the fingers for the performer.

Manufacturing and Packaging

Produced in the USA, these strings undergo strict quality control to maintain consistency across batches. D'Addario employs environmentally friendly packaging, using recyclable VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) bags that protect the strings from oxidation while in storage. Additionally, the packaging includes a unique code for the D'Addario Players Circle rewards programme, allowing users to earn points for future purchases.

Target Audience and Applications

The EPS170-5 is suited for bassists who require a modern, aggressive tone that cuts through a dense mix. They are highly effective for genres such as metal, prog-rock, and funk, where slap techniques and clear articulation are paramount. Because they are designed for long-scale instruments, they fit the majority of standard 5-string basses currently on the market.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the gauge of the strings in the EPS170-5 set?: The set features light gauges consisting of .045, .065, .080, .100, and .130 inches.
What material is used for the wrap wire?: These strings utilize a specialized stainless steel alloy for the wrap wire, which is nickel-free.
Are these strings suitable for a 4-string bass?: No, this specific set is designed for 5-string basses as it includes a .130 gauge low B string.
What scale length do these strings support?: The EPS170-5 is designed for long-scale bass guitars, accommodating standard full-size instruments.
How does the Hex-Core design benefit the player?: The Hex-Core allows the wrap wire to grip the core more effectively, resulting in better tuning stability and more accurate intonation.
What kind of tone can I expect from ProSteels?: Expect a very bright and crunchy tone with high harmonic content and a punchy, tight low-end response.
Where are D'Addario EPS170-5 strings manufactured?: These strings are manufactured in the United States to exacting quality standards.
Are these strings safe for players with nickel allergies?: Yes, the ProSteels range features a nickel-free design, making them a suitable alternative for those with nickel sensitivities.
What is the typical price for this 5-string set?: The typical price range for this specific set is approximately £43 in the United Kingdom.
How are the strings protected before they are opened?: They are sealed in recyclable VCI bags which prevent corrosion and ensure the strings remain fresh until they are installed.
Can I earn rewards for purchasing these strings?: Yes, the packaging contains a code that can be registered with the D'Addario Players Circle rewards program.
How do these compare to nickel-wound strings?: ProSteels are significantly brighter and offer more magnetic output than nickel-wound strings, providing a more 'metallic' and aggressive sound.