D&#39;Addario ECB81

5.0 (43)

$49.99

4.8 (2724)

$49.69

5.0 (6)

$44.63 73 available New

$42.89 3 available Used

4.0 (39)

$49.99

5.0 (3)

$49.99

4.7 (440)

$48.00

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "D'Addario ECB81". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Experience the unmistakable allure of the D'Addario ECB81 bass strings, the quintessential choice for musicians seeking a blend of warmth and clarity. Known as the best-selling flatwound bass strings from D'Addario, these strings are celebrated for their ability to produce a rich, full-bodied sound that resonates with depth and character. Whether you're laying down thick grooves in jazz or weaving smooth tones in R&B, the ECB81 strings offer a luxurious, silky feel that enhances playability and articulation.

Crafted for standard long scale instruments with a scale length of up to 36 1/4", they are versatile enough to fit most basses on the market. Their flatwound design not only provides a classic, vintage tone but also significantly reduces finger noise, allowing your basslines to flow seamlessly in any mix. With the ECB81 strings, embrace the heritage of flatwound strings that have graced countless legendary recordings, while exploring new sonic landscapes with every note you play.

Key Features:

Best-selling flatwound bass strings from D'Addario
Warm, fat tone ideal for jazz, R&B, and more
Designed for long scale basses up to 36 1/4"
Smooth feel with reduced finger noise
Perfect for both seasoned professionals and aspiring bassists

Product specs

Guitar Type	Electric Bass
Number of Strings	4
Coated	No
Gauges	.045, .065, .080, .100
Winding Type	Flat Wound
Core Material	Hexagonal Steel
Winding Material	Stainless Steel
Scale Length	Long, 36.875" at taper

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of D'Addario ECB81 flatwound bass strings?: D'Addario ECB81 flatwound bass strings are known for their warm, mellow tone with less finger noise, making them ideal for jazz, blues, and classic rock styles.
Are D'Addario ECB81 strings suitable for long-scale bass guitars?: Yes, the D'Addario ECB81 strings are designed for long-scale bass guitars, accommodating a scale length of up to 36.875" at the taper.
How do D'Addario ECB81 flatwound strings differ from roundwound strings?: D'Addario ECB81 flatwound strings provide a smoother feel and reduced finger noise compared to roundwound strings, offering a more subdued and vintage tone.
What materials are used in the construction of D'Addario ECB81 strings?: D'Addario ECB81 strings feature a hexagonal steel core with stainless steel flat winding, contributing to their durability and consistent tone.
Are D'Addario ECB81 strings suitable for slap bass techniques?: While D'Addario ECB81 strings can be used for slap bass, their flatwound construction may not provide the bright attack and sustain typically desired for slap styles.

Videos

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Bassist Naoto Tada

D'Addario VS La Bella【Bass Flatwound】

Bassist Naoto Tada

Reviews

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PROS

Long-lasting durability, even with frequent use
Excellent for jazz and Motown, with a wide range of tones
Smooth feel with reduced sliding noise; great for fretless basses
Retains bright overtones initially but ages well into a warm sound
Consistent string-to-string tonal balance, even on the low E string
Resistant to tarnishing and easy to clean
Works well with various bass models, including through-body Mustangs
Provides a classic, thumpy, and woody tone reminiscent of the 60s
Easy on the fingertips, reducing fatigue during long sessions
Great for players looking for an upright bass sound

CONS

May require truss rod adjustment due to higher tension
Occasional issues with string core slipping, leading to buzzing
Blue silk winding can extend over saddle, requiring trimming
Some users find them slightly stiff and awkward sounding initially
Threading on some strings too long, causing buzz in certain basses

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about D'Addario ECB81.

Setup and maintenance

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A professional setup is recommended to address buzzing issues; finger position close to the fret is crucial for reducing unwanted noise.
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Comparisons

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DR Legends are suggested for those preferring flatwound strings over D'Addario ECB81 CL Chromes for a smoother feel.
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Chromes are brighter initially compared to La Bella DTFs but settle into a modern flatwound sound with strong mids.
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D'Addario ECB81 Chromes are contrasted against Roto flatwounds, with users noting the latter's high tension and 80% flat, 20% regular wound feel, which differs significantly from the smoothness of the ECB81.
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Use cases and applications

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The ECB81 CL strings are considered suitable for beginner players seeking ease of play with small hands.
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Chromes are favored for their versatility, working well in both modern and classic bass tones.
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Chromes are praised for their ability to provide both thump and brightness, making them suitable for diverse musical styles.
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Some players prefer to keep unwanted strings as backups for specific situations like recording sessions requiring a brighter sound, showcasing their versatility in different settings.
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User experience

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Owners note that Chromes have a high tension, which may not be suitable for those who prefer a looser string feel.
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Owners highlight that D'Addario ECB81 strings are "glass smooth" and "silky," enhancing playing comfort and facilitating a seamless transition for guitar players moving to bass.
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Several users express a strong preference for D'Addario ECB81 strings, citing them as their lifelong choice due to their unmatched smoothness and favorable tension.
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Build quality

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Chromes are highlighted for their longevity, maintaining brightness longer than other flatwounds like La Bella.
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Other

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It's common practice among some players to sell or trade barely used flatwound strings, as they maintain their sound quality longer compared to roundwounds, providing a cost-effective way to test different brands.
Source

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

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Michael League

Bassist, Music Producer

Snarky Puppy

Verified via BassPlayer.com

Strings D’Addario ECB81M Chromes (.045–.100); EXL 165-5 Nickel Wound (.045–.135)

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use D'Addario ECB81, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Markbass Minimark 802 Bass Combo Amplifiers

Markbass New York 804 Bass Amplifier Cabinets

D'Addario EXL 165-5 Strings

Avalon U5 Direct Boxes

Ampeg B-15 Bass Amplifier Stacks

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