What makes cobalt strings different from nickel strings?

Cobalt provides a stronger magnetic relationship with pickups compared to nickel. This results in a higher output signal and a broader frequency response, particularly in the low and high ends.

What are the gauges in the 2733 Hybrid Slinky set?

The set includes gauges of .045, .065, .085, and .105. This combination is designed to offer a balance between playability on higher strings and thickness on the lower strings.

Do these strings offer more volume than standard strings?

Yes, the cobalt alloy is engineered to increase output. This means they can drive an amplifier harder than standard nickel-plated steel strings of the same gauge.

How do Cobalt Slinky strings feel to the touch?

Many players find cobalt to be softer and more flexible than stainless steel. It offers a unique tactile experience that is often described as silky or smooth for a roundwound string.

Are these strings suitable for all genres of music?

While versatile, they are particularly well-suited for genres that benefit from clarity and punch, such as rock, metal, and funk. Their extended dynamic range makes them a good choice for expressive playing styles.

Will these strings work with active pickups?

Yes, Ernie Ball Cobalt strings are fully compatible with both active and passive bass pickups. Their high-output nature can be particularly effective at pushing passive pickups further.

How is the low-end response on the 2733 set?

The 2733 set is engineered for an increased low-end response. The cobalt alloy helps maintain definition in the bass frequencies, preventing them from sounding muffled.

Are these strings roundwound or flatwound?

The Ernie Ball 2733 Cobalt Hybrid Slinky strings are roundwound. This construction contributes to their bright, clear high-end and harmonic richness.

Do these strings have a long lifespan?

Cobalt is highly resistant to moisture and corrosion. This typically results in a longer-lasting 'fresh' tone compared to standard untreated nickel strings.

Can I use these strings for drop tunings?

The .105 E-string provides enough tension for standard and drop-D tuning. However, for significantly lower tunings, a heavier gauge set might be preferred.

How do they compare to Ernie Ball M-Steel strings?

While both are high-output innovations, M-Steel is a different alloy used primarily for guitar sets like the 2921. Cobalt is the primary high-output choice for the Ernie Ball bass string range.

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

In the UK market, these strings typically retail for approximately £29.00. This reflects their position as a premium, technologically advanced string option.

Gear article

Ernie Ball 2733 Cobalt Hybrid Slinky Bass Strings

The Ernie Ball 2733 Cobalt Hybrid Slinky Bass Strings are high-output electric bass strings featuring a proprietary cobalt alloy wrap. Engineered to provide an extended dynamic range and increased low-end response, these strings represent a significant technological shift from traditional nickel and stainless steel formulations.

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Background and Innovation

Ernie Ball introduced Cobalt Slinky strings as a modern innovation in string technology, moving beyond the industry-standard materials used for decades. By utilising a cobalt-iron alloy for the outer winding, the manufacturer sought to create a stronger magnetic relationship between the strings and the pickups. This development was intended to provide bassists with a 'new voice' that offers higher output than traditional nickel-plated steel strings.

Key Features and Gauges

The 2733 set utilises the 'Hybrid Slinky' configuration, which combines the high-end punch of lighter G and D strings with the deep resonance of heavier A and E strings. The specific gauges for this set are .045, .065, .085, and .105.

The technical benefits of the cobalt construction include: * Extended Dynamic Range: Greater sensitivity to touch and playing intensity. * Increased Output: A stronger signal delivered to the amplifier. * Harmonic Response: Enhanced clarity across the frequency spectrum. * Material Feel: Cobalt provides a distinct, soft-to-the-touch feel compared to standard stainless steel.

Sonic Characteristics

The primary tonal objective of the Cobalt Slinky 2733 is to provide a balanced but powerful sound. Users typically notice an increased low-end presence that remains tight rather than muddy, paired with crisp, clear highs. The harmonic response is notably wide, making these strings particularly effective for bassists who require their instrument to cut through dense mixes or for those who use complex effects chains.

Suitability and Comparisons

These strings are suited to players who find traditional nickel strings too dull or stainless steel strings too abrasive. While products like the Ernie Ball 2921 M-Steel sets offer similar high-output innovations for guitar, the 2733 set focuses on the specific frequency requirements of the electric bass. Compared to traditional series like the Nickel Slinky, the Cobalt version offers a more modern, 'hi-fi' sound character. They are often chosen by rock, metal, and funk players who prioritise clarity and output.

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Frequently asked questions

What makes cobalt strings different from nickel strings?: Cobalt provides a stronger magnetic relationship with pickups compared to nickel. This results in a higher output signal and a broader frequency response, particularly in the low and high ends.
What are the gauges in the 2733 Hybrid Slinky set?: The set includes gauges of .045, .065, .085, and .105. This combination is designed to offer a balance between playability on higher strings and thickness on the lower strings.
Do these strings offer more volume than standard strings?: Yes, the cobalt alloy is engineered to increase output. This means they can drive an amplifier harder than standard nickel-plated steel strings of the same gauge.
How do Cobalt Slinky strings feel to the touch?: Many players find cobalt to be softer and more flexible than stainless steel. It offers a unique tactile experience that is often described as silky or smooth for a roundwound string.
Are these strings suitable for all genres of music?: While versatile, they are particularly well-suited for genres that benefit from clarity and punch, such as rock, metal, and funk. Their extended dynamic range makes them a good choice for expressive playing styles.
Will these strings work with active pickups?: Yes, Ernie Ball Cobalt strings are fully compatible with both active and passive bass pickups. Their high-output nature can be particularly effective at pushing passive pickups further.
How is the low-end response on the 2733 set?: The 2733 set is engineered for an increased low-end response. The cobalt alloy helps maintain definition in the bass frequencies, preventing them from sounding muffled.
Are these strings roundwound or flatwound?: The Ernie Ball 2733 Cobalt Hybrid Slinky strings are roundwound. This construction contributes to their bright, clear high-end and harmonic richness.
Do these strings have a long lifespan?: Cobalt is highly resistant to moisture and corrosion. This typically results in a longer-lasting 'fresh' tone compared to standard untreated nickel strings.
Can I use these strings for drop tunings?: The .105 E-string provides enough tension for standard and drop-D tuning. However, for significantly lower tunings, a heavier gauge set might be preferred.
How do they compare to Ernie Ball M-Steel strings?: While both are high-output innovations, M-Steel is a different alloy used primarily for guitar sets like the 2921. Cobalt is the primary high-output choice for the Ernie Ball bass string range.
What is the typical price for a set of these strings?: In the UK market, these strings typically retail for approximately £29.00. This reflects their position as a premium, technologically advanced string option.