What is the gauge of the D'Addario EXL165SL set?

The set is a 'Custom Light' gauge, featuring string thicknesses of .045, .065, .085, and .105.

What does 'Super Long Scale' mean for these strings?

Super Long Scale refers to the physical length of the string, designed for basses with a longer distance between the bridge and the nut, often 35 inches or more, or those with through-body stringing.

What materials are used in the construction of the EXL165SL?

These strings are constructed with a high-carbon steel core and a wrap wire made of nickel-plated steel.

How would you describe the tonal character of these strings?

They are described as having a bright, balanced tone with a tight low-end response and clear highs.

Are these strings suitable for studio recording?

Yes, their consistent brightness and reliable performance make them a trusted choice for both studio recording and live stage use.

What is the typical price for a set of EXL165SL strings?

The typical price for this specific set is approximately £25.00.

Can these strings be used on a standard 34-inch scale bass?

While they can physically fit, the extra length of 'Super Long' strings may result in too much silk or thick winding around the tuning posts, so they are best reserved for super long scale instruments.

How does the 'Custom Light' gauge differ from a standard light set?

The Custom Light set blends lighter G and D strings with slightly heavier A and E strings (.085 and .105) to balance playability with low-end punch.

Are these strings coated for longevity?

No, the EXL series are standard nickel-wound strings; they are not part of D'Addario's coated string lines like the XT or XS series.

What genres of music are these strings best suited for?

Due to their versatile and balanced tone, they work well across almost all genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and funk.

Do these strings provide a smooth playing feel?

Yes, the nickel-plated steel wrap is designed to provide smooth playability compared to the rougher texture of stainless steel strings.

Who is the manufacturer of the EXL165SL?

These strings are manufactured by D'Addario, a prominent American brand known for producing a wide range of musical instrument strings.

Gear article

D'Addario EXL165SL Nickel Wound Bass Strings

The D'Addario EXL165SL is a set of custom light nickel-wound bass strings designed specifically for super long scale instruments. They feature a high-carbon steel core and nickel-plated steel wrap wire to provide a balance of bright highs and tight low-end response.

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Overview

The D'Addario EXL165SL Nickel Wound Bass Strings are engineered for bassists who require extended length for super long scale instruments. This 'Custom Light' set combines the top strings of a light set (.045 and .065) with the bottom strings of a medium set (.085 and .105). This hybrid configuration is intended to offer a versatile playing experience that maintains clarity in the upper register while ensuring the low-end remains punchy and defined.

Construction and Materials

The foundation of the EXL165SL is a high-carbon steel core, which provides structural integrity and tuning stability. This core is precision-wound with nickel-plated steel wire. The use of nickel plating is a standard in the industry for achieving a 'balanced' tone—one that is brighter than pure nickel strings but warmer and more fingerboard-friendly than stainless steel alternatives. The manufacturing process focuses on consistency, ensuring that the strings perform reliably in both live performance and studio recording environments.

Tone and Playability

The sonic character of the EXL165SL is defined by its 'bright balanced' profile. The nickel-plated wrap contributes to a magnetic response that highlights the natural harmonics of the bass guitar. In terms of playability, the custom light gauge offers a slightly more flexible feel on the higher strings, facilitating easier bends and melodic work, while the .105 low E-string provides enough tension to prevent 'floppiness' during aggressive fingerstyle or pick playing.

Suitability and Scale Length

These strings are specifically designated as 'Super Long Scale.' This is a critical distinction for players of basses with extra-long necks or through-body stringing designs where standard long-scale strings may not reach the nut or tuning pegs properly. They are suitable for a wide variety of musical genres, including rock, funk, and jazz, due to their neutral yet articulate tonal footprint.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the D'Addario catalogue, the EXL165SL sits alongside other specialised strings like the Helicore or Zyex series for orchestral instruments. Compared to guitar-focused sets like the Ernie Ball M-Steel or Tim Henson Signature series, these bass strings are built for significantly higher tension and lower frequency response. While brands like Dunlop offer specific sets for smaller instruments like the Ukulele Concert Pro-4, the EXL165SL represents the heavy-duty end of the string spectrum, prioritising durability and sustain for the modern electric bassist.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the gauge of the D'Addario EXL165SL set?: The set is a 'Custom Light' gauge, featuring string thicknesses of .045, .065, .085, and .105.
What does 'Super Long Scale' mean for these strings?: Super Long Scale refers to the physical length of the string, designed for basses with a longer distance between the bridge and the nut, often 35 inches or more, or those with through-body stringing.
What materials are used in the construction of the EXL165SL?: These strings are constructed with a high-carbon steel core and a wrap wire made of nickel-plated steel.
How would you describe the tonal character of these strings?: They are described as having a bright, balanced tone with a tight low-end response and clear highs.
Are these strings suitable for studio recording?: Yes, their consistent brightness and reliable performance make them a trusted choice for both studio recording and live stage use.
What is the typical price for a set of EXL165SL strings?: The typical price for this specific set is approximately £25.00.
Can these strings be used on a standard 34-inch scale bass?: While they can physically fit, the extra length of 'Super Long' strings may result in too much silk or thick winding around the tuning posts, so they are best reserved for super long scale instruments.
How does the 'Custom Light' gauge differ from a standard light set?: The Custom Light set blends lighter G and D strings with slightly heavier A and E strings (.085 and .105) to balance playability with low-end punch.
Are these strings coated for longevity?: No, the EXL series are standard nickel-wound strings; they are not part of D'Addario's coated string lines like the XT or XS series.
What genres of music are these strings best suited for?: Due to their versatile and balanced tone, they work well across almost all genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and funk.
Do these strings provide a smooth playing feel?: Yes, the nickel-plated steel wrap is designed to provide smooth playability compared to the rougher texture of stainless steel strings.
Who is the manufacturer of the EXL165SL?: These strings are manufactured by D'Addario, a prominent American brand known for producing a wide range of musical instrument strings.