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D'Addario XL Chromes Flat Wound Bass Guitar Strings - ECB81M - Medium Scale - Regular Light, 45-100
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Return this item for free
Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select the return method
- Ship it!
Return this item for free
Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select the return method
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Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | D'Addario |
String Gauge | Medium |
Color | Silver |
Instrument | Bass Guitar |
String Material Type | Chrome |
About this item
- MELLOW TONE - XL Chromes are a flat wound electric bass string, which provide a mellower tone than round wound strings.
- SMOOTH, DARK TONES - Chromes stainless steel flattened ribbon wrap wire is precisely polished for unparalleled smoothness and a dark, yet warm tone.
- HEX-CORE - Like all D’Addario bass strings, XL Chromes are made with our proprietary Hex-Core, ensuring perfect intonation, consistent feel, and reliable durability.
- EARN REWARD POINTS - Chromes sets have a code on the recyclable VCI bag, which you can register to earn Players Circle points.
- MADE IN THE USA – D’Addario bass guitar strings are made in the USA—drawn to our exacting specifications at our New York production facility.
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This Item D'Addario XL Chromes Flat Wound Bass Guitar Strings - ECB81M - Medium Scale - Regular Light, 45-100 | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | |
Price | $34.99$34.99 | $19.99$19.99 | $45.95$45.95 | $10.49$10.49 | $59.99$59.99 | -20% $16.00$16.00 List: $19.99 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it Mar 29 - Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Longevity | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.7 | — | 4.6 | 4.7 |
Versatility | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.7 | — | 4.4 | 4.3 |
Brightness | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.2 | — | 4.3 | 4.0 |
Comfort | 4.8 | — | 4.8 | — | 4.8 | 4.0 |
Value for money | 4.5 | — | 4.6 | — | 4.5 | 4.3 |
Sold By | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | GearNuts | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Clickandship |
instrument | Bass Guitar | Bass Guitar | Bass Guitar | Bass Guitar | Bass Guitar | Electric Guitar |
string material | Chrome | Nickel-Plated | Stainless Steel | Nickel Steel | Chrome | Chrome |
string gauge | Medium | .045 - .105 | Light | Medium | Medium | Jazz Light |
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Product information
Item Weight | 2.8 ounces |
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Product Dimensions | 6.61 x 5.98 x 0.59 inches |
Country of Origin | USA |
ASIN | B000H28IPA |
Item model number | ECB81M |
Customer Reviews |
4.8 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #776 in Musical Instruments (See Top 100 in Musical Instruments) #3 in Bass Guitar Strings |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | March 8, 2007 |
Color Name | Silver |
Scale Length | Medium Scale |
String Gauge | Medium |
String Material | Chrome |
Number of Strings | 4 |
Size | Medium Scale |
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Product Description
Product Description
XL Chromes are among the warmest, mellowest bass strings we have to offer. These flat wound strings provide an ultra-smooth feel and a dark, yet warm tone, while allowing movement across the fretboard with no finger noise. Made with a high carbon steel core, Chromes stainless steel flattened ribbon wrap wire is expertly wound onto a series of interlocking under-windings, then precisely polished for unparalleled smoothness and a tonal presence which blends beautifully into the mix. This 45-100 Regular Light set is a medium scale version of our best-selling bass gauge, known for its even tension, bright tone, and tight low-end.
From the Manufacturer
ECB81M, a medium scale version of D'Addario's best-selling Flatwound bass strings, are known for their warm, mellow tone and smooth polished feel. Chromes deliver a deep, rich low bottom end which makes them the flat wound choice of Jazz, R&B and Pop musicians. Fits medium scale basses with a string scale length of up to 34 inches.
D'Addario Chromes Bass strings are wound with flattened stainless steel ribbon wire which is polished to an incredibly smooth surface. Delivering a distinctive damped, but tone-rich sound that only flatwounds can produce, D'Addario Chromes are the world's most popular flatwound strings.
D'Addario, the world's largest manufacturer of musical instrument strings, is known as The Players Choice with a reputation for unsurpassed quality and consistency. D'Addario's innovative packaging reduces waste and provides protection from corrosion. All D'Addario strings are manufactured in the U.S.A. using proprietary, digitally controlled, state-of-the-art machinery for unmatched performance, set after set.
From the manufacturer
MORE PUNCH, POWER & POLISH
D'Addario XL Chromes are the industry standard in flatwound bass guitar strings. They deliver a round, full low end without losing punch. Wound with flattened stainless steel ribbon wire, XL Chromes are then polished to unparalleled smoothness.
FEATURES:
- Wrap Material: Stainless Steel
- Wrap Construction: Flatwound
- Coating: Uncoated
- Number Of Strings: 4, 5
- Scale Length: Short, Medium, Long, Super Long
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- Players Circle is D'Addario's rewards program that allows you to get free gear & rewards.
- Look for the “Get Rewarded” Players Circle messaging on select D’Addario products to earn rewards.
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"I have been rockin' on D'Addario strings since I first started." Gary Plays XL Chromes 11-50 |
"I've been using D'Addario strings for over 20 years. They're comfortable, they stay in tune, and they're very consistent." Robben Plays XL Chromes 11-52 |
"I am a professional recording and touring musician with over 40 years of experience. D'Addario strings are the best sounding and reliable strings I've ever played." Rudy Plays XL Chromes 45-100 |
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FLATWOUND CONSTRUCTIONFlat wound strings feature precisely flattened stainless steel wrap wire that is wound and polished to provide an ultra smooth feel and a full, mellow tone. |
HEX CORE CONSTRUCTIONPrecision drawn hexagonal core wire was pioneered by John D'Addario Sr. in the 1930's. This innovation allows the string winding to grip the core for superior dimensional stability and intonation. |
STRING WINDINGString winding equipment is designed and built by D'Addario's engineering team, producing more than half a million strings per day. Digitally-controlled string winding machines ensure productivity, accuracy, and consistency. |
WIRE DRAWINGD'Addario's in-house wire drawing machines produce musical instrument wire to our exact specifications. Control over materials, equipment, and quality allows us to deliver high performance products. |
XL Pro Steels | XL Nickel Wound | XT Coated Nickel | NYXL Nickel | XL Nylon Tapewound | |
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Customer Reviews |
4.7 out of 5 stars
3,111
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4.8 out of 5 stars
9,202
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4.6 out of 5 stars
741
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4.7 out of 5 stars
1,159
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4.7 out of 5 stars
1,501
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Tone | Super Bright | Bright | Bright | Bright | Mellow |
Wrap Wire Alloy | Stainless Steel | Nickel Plated Steel | Coated Nickel Plated Steel | Nickel Plated Steel | Flattened Black Nylon |
Construction | Round Wound | Round Wound | Round Wound | Round Wound | Tape Wound |
Coated | Uncoated | Uncoated | Coated (XT Treatment) | Uncoated | Uncoated |
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the sound quality, quality and smoothness of the musical instrument strings. For example, they mention that they sound really good, provide a warm full woody sound and are very smooth. That said, some appreciate the value, and brightness of the strings. That being said, opinions are mixed on the fit and stiffness.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the sound quality of the musical instrument strings. They mention that they sound really good, and feel great to play. Some say that the strings sound like butter after about three to four months, and have a low thump tone. They also appreciate the smooth feel and the lack of fret noise. Overall, customers are happy with the performance of these strings.
"...But then- after about five months, the TONE became AWESOME. Smooth, silky, right there when you need it. And no scratching...." Read more
"...too dull but while not a zingy as the round wounds they have a nice bright sound and a fuller, rounder tone overall. I highly recommend." Read more
"...setup (neck adjustment, string height and intonation) there is almost zero fret noise. I like that. These are great strings!" Read more
"...With the right tone adjustments on your bass, you can get a very full and balanced sound that is 'there' without being 'on top' or distracting, as..." Read more
Customers like the quality of the strings. They mention that they have a nice rich thump, and age very nicely. They also appreciate the warm full woody sound, and deep soulful funky tones. Some say that the strings have sassy feel and are great for flat picking.
"...not a zingy as the round wounds they have a nice bright sound and a fuller, rounder tone overall. I highly recommend." Read more
"...compared to the other strings but with this set the string-to-string balance is excellent and, most importantly, my upper register notes have plenty..." Read more
"...Even when the bass is adjusted for a bright sound, it is a fuller, fatter bright and not so tinny...." Read more
"...They also age very, very nicely, in that each string ages equally, even the E string, which is really surprising since I've found that the E string..." Read more
Customers find the musical instrument strings so smooth that they can no longer feel the fret wires below. They say the flats are perfectly smooth, and the action is now smooth. The strings provide outstanding smooth lows and bright highs, and handle tuning exceptionally well.
"...But then- after about five months, the TONE became AWESOME. Smooth, silky, right there when you need it. And no scratching...." Read more
"...Very smooth playing, easy on the fingers, QUIET and they hold their tuning...." Read more
"...These strings handle that tuning exceptionally well at extremely low string height...." Read more
"...' without being 'on top' or distracting, as well as a bright but still smooth and full lead for great jazz, country or rock...." Read more
Customers find the musical instrument strings easy to use. They say the sound, smooth feel, and play-ability are a pleasure to play on. Customers also say the scale bass strings are able to produce excellent sound with no finger noise. They also say that the flat winding is super easy on the fingers. Overall, customers are happy with the ease of use and recommend the strings to others.
"...Very smooth playing, easy on the fingers, QUIET and they hold their tuning...." Read more
"...The flatwounds feel smooth slick and amazing to play. They are a bit stiffer with more thud than rounds and also have less ring...." Read more
"...much fuller on the Labellas and they are way, way, smoother and easier on the hands...." Read more
"...What i found was the pleasure of playing increased dramatically...." Read more
Customers like the value of the musical instrument strings. They say they are excellent value for the money, well worth the investment, and smooth. Some customers also mention that the seller is great and the best on the market.
"...This is worth the cost of admission and completely makes up for some of the strings cons...." Read more
"...I feel this was a good upgrade, and worth the effort and cost, and this is the best intonation this bass has seen!..." Read more
"So much nicer than round wound. Worth the extra money" Read more
"...n't very familiar with D'Addario flatwound strings, they are well worth the investment to check them out...." Read more
Customers like the brightness of the musical instrument strings. They mention that they have just the right amount of brightness, making the bridge pickup sound less muddy. They also appreciate the outstanding lows and smooth flatwounds.
"...Even when the bass is adjusted for a bright sound, it is a fuller, fatter bright and not so tinny...." Read more
"Bright enough to slap, fat enough for even sound across the neck. Long lasting too. My new go-to for every day gigging" Read more
"Useful to reduce string slide noise. Still ok bright on electric (Fender Mustang Bass) , but very dead on acoustic bass (Fender Kingman)...." Read more
"...The strings provide outstanding smooth lows and bright highs as well." Read more
Customers are mixed about the fit of the musical instrument strings. Some mention that it fits perfectly on their 30 1/4" scale Rogue VB100 Violin Bass Guitar, while others say that the strings wouldn't fit.
"These strings are a perfect fit on my Fender Kingman V2 acoustic bass...." Read more
"...And for you fellow Rapture owners, the B string was a tiny bit tight but fit in the bridge without modification...." Read more
"...They're quite evenly tensioned with very relative string sizings and sound like butter after about three to four months when the zing wears off...." Read more
"...Silks look new. Great! Go to put them on my bass... these are short scale strings, silks run to the 2nd fret!..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the stiffness of the musical instrument strings. Some mention they have relatively high tension, while others say they feel stiff and rough.
"...They are stiffer, so you will need to adjust the action a tad.-Good luck!" Read more
"...They're quite evenly tensioned with very relative string sizings and sound like butter after about three to four months when the zing wears off...." Read more
"...mind them being steel, however, therein lies the problem of tension being TOO HIGH for an acoustic instrument...." Read more
"...They have relatively high tension.I like this to be able to set the action low as possible and more easily play the quick licks...." Read more
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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The strings took a little getting used to, and i wasn't completely sold at first. But then- after about five months, the TONE became AWESOME. Smooth, silky, right there when you need it. And no scratching. Its hard to describe, but you will notice. I use fingers style for almost everything, so I haven't' had a need to use a pick. But that being said, I can't see why it wouldn't work with a pick.
Also, its hard to go back to rounds now. The scratching just isn't there for flats. I just bought a new American P bass, and it came with rounds. I just don't like the round sound anymore, so i ordered another set for the new bass.
Also to note, these 100-45 flats replaced my 105-45 rounds perfectly. They are stiffer, so you will need to adjust the action a tad.
-Good luck!
Pictured is my lovely Pedulla Rapture RBJ2-5 with a set of D'Addario XL Chromes ECB81-5, the lightest gauge set of Chromes. And for you fellow Rapture owners, the B string was a tiny bit tight but fit in the bridge without modification. I was a bit worried at first because I like keeping this bass in original condition. I have a very light piece of foam at the bridge to eliminate unwanted harmonics and add a little Jamerson thump, and yes, these strings do harmonics well. Some flatwound sets do not. I am very happy with this set of strings.
Oh, I need to add that my band plays tuned down one-half step. These strings handle that tuning exceptionally well at extremely low string height. The strings are a bit more taught than the roundwounds I previously had on this bass but not so much I cannot bend them easily. After setup (neck adjustment, string height and intonation) there is almost zero fret noise. I like that. These are great strings!
Reviewed in the United States on November 2, 2018
Pictured is my lovely Pedulla Rapture RBJ2-5 with a set of D'Addario XL Chromes ECB81-5, the lightest gauge set of Chromes. And for you fellow Rapture owners, the B string was a tiny bit tight but fit in the bridge without modification. I was a bit worried at first because I like keeping this bass in original condition. I have a very light piece of foam at the bridge to eliminate unwanted harmonics and add a little Jamerson thump, and yes, these strings do harmonics well. Some flatwound sets do not. I am very happy with this set of strings.
Oh, I need to add that my band plays tuned down one-half step. These strings handle that tuning exceptionally well at extremely low string height. The strings are a bit more taught than the roundwounds I previously had on this bass but not so much I cannot bend them easily. After setup (neck adjustment, string height and intonation) there is almost zero fret noise. I like that. These are great strings!
SCALE/GUITAR: I purchase the SUPER LONG scale for through-the-body set-ups and long scale for standard setups of 34" scale basses on my 4 string basses. The D'Addario long scale came up slightly short and the full windings didn't even make the nut on the through-the-body set-ups. Additionally, it feels like the longer scale actually alleviated some of the excessive neck tension on 4 strings. *On some five strings I stick with the Long scale strings WITH a TTB set-up to keep the B string from feeling floppy. I had to trim some of the sring winding at the nut but this is easily done and the bass really resonds well.
COMFORT: The Flat-wound Chromes are incredibly comfortable strings. If you like to slide all over the place, these strings are for you and produce zero slide noise.
SOUND: I love the full, mellow sound they produce. I have played R&B, Jazz, Rock, and Country, and I also play on a worship team, and these strings can solo on the most reverent of songs, or turn it up on a good Rock riff. With the right tone adjustments on your bass, you can get a very full and balanced sound that is 'there' without being 'on top' or distracting, as well as a bright but still smooth and full lead for great jazz, country or rock. Just don't expect a great deal of growl if you're trying to slap.
CONS: The only con I have is through-the-body Stringing - I wish D'Addario would design a set labeled specifically for TTB set-ups. Although I have had ZERO problems with these strings and have NEVER replaced a set (I'm of the gunk-is-funk camp), it would be nice to not have to figure out what set will work without doing a bunch of silly measuring, or, worse yet, having to buy another set because you guessed or measured wrong; especially since bass strings can get pricey!
Conclusion: It's really simple; if you like a WARM-sounding, foundation bass, get these strings. If you like something a little more ON-TOP of the sound, go with round-wounds.
Top reviews from other countries
well worth the price!
Reviewed in Canada on April 22, 2023
well worth the price!
En cuanto a durabilidad no puedo opinar porque tengo poco tiwmpo con ellas, algo menos de un mes. Pero es conocido que las Flatwounds tiene una durabilidad superior a las Roundwounds.
En cuanto a la relación calidad-precio sin duda es excelente.
Definitivamente son mis favoritas en esta etapa que busco ese tipo de sonido.
Fitted to my Ibanez TMB30 Talman Bass without issues.
Fantastic product - reduces finger noise to near zero and great tone too.