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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.

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Description

When it comes to achieving the perfect balance of brightness and clarity, the D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels bass guitar strings are a game-changer for any serious bassist. Crafted with precision, these strings are known for their exceptional magnetic properties, making them D'Addario's brightest offering yet. The secret lies in their unique ProSteel construction, which utilizes a special alloy to deliver rich, harmonically complex highs coupled with robust, precise lows. This combination ensures every note you play resonates with unparalleled clarity and vibrant tone.

Designed for versatility, the EPS165-5 Pro Steels are your go-to strings whether you're laying down a groove in the studio or dominating the stage. With a regular light top and medium bottom, they offer a balanced tension that provides both comfort and control, allowing for smooth transitions and dynamic playability. The long scale design further enhances their performance, making them ideal for a variety of playing styles and musical genres.

Key Features:

  • Regular light top / medium bottom ProSteel construction
  • Gauges: 045-065-085-105
  • D'Addario's brightest and most magnetic bass strings
  • Special alloy for rich, harmonically brilliant highs and precise lows
  • Long scale design for versatile playability

Product specs

Available since November 2004
String gauge 045 - 105
Material Steel
Scale Long Scale
Taperwound No

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels bass strings?

The D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels bass strings are known for their super bright tone, offering excellent clarity and articulation. They are D'Addario's brightest and most magnetic bass strings, making them ideal for cutting through in a mix.

Are D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels strings suitable for all bass guitar scales?

These strings are designed for long scale bass guitars. It's important to ensure your bass is compatible with long scale strings to achieve optimal performance and tuning stability.

What is the string gauge of the D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels set?

The D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels set features a light top and medium bottom gauge, specifically .045" to .135". This combination provides a balanced feel and versatile playability across different music styles.

Are D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels strings roundwound or flatwound?

The D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels strings are roundwound, which contributes to their bright tone and enhanced magnetic properties, making them ideal for genres that require a punchy and articulate sound.

What material are the D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels strings made from?

These strings are crafted from a specialized steel alloy, which enhances their brightness and magnetic response, providing a lively and dynamic playing experience.

Wicker

Wicker

testing my Cort with D'Addario EPS165 PROSteels

Video thumbnail for testing my Cort with D'Addario EPS165 PROSteels by Wicker

testing my Cort with D'Addario EPS165 PROSteels

Wicker

Wicker

Reviews

PROS

  • Produces a bright, punchy sound ideal for slap and solo bass

  • Maintains brightness longer than other nickel strings

  • Excellent clarity and playability for non-professional musicians

  • Strong price-to-quality ratio compared to similar strings

  • Consistent tone quality from set to set

  • Comparable brightness to higher-priced Roto-sound 66's

  • Durable, with long-lasting performance

CONS

  • Limited versatility for rock and other traditional bass tones

  • Dull grey appearance might not appeal to all users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels.

User experience

  • D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels are praised for their long-lasting durability compared to Ernie Ball's smoother but less durable strings.

    Source
  • A user noted the Pro Steels' zingy tone becomes more mellow over time, which pairs well with the bass's natural sound evolution.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Elixirs, while more expensive, maintain a "new string zing" longer than D'Addario Pro Steels, which tend to mellow out faster.

    Source
  • DR Black Beauties offer an aggressive sound with longer lifespan due to their coating, contrasting with the Pro Steels' raw brightness.

    Source
  • When compared to DR Hi Beams, Pro Steels are favored for their longer shelf life and frequent sales, offering a practical choice for extended use.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A thicker E string, like .110, is suggested to reduce floppiness without requiring nut work on some bass models.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Stainless steel strings like the Pro Steels are recommended for their brightness, essential for modern metal with heavy distortion and detuned setups.

    Source
  • Stainless steel, hex core strings are preferred for maintaining clarity and brightness in heavily distorted metal performances.

    Source
  • Pro Steels maintain a bright tone ideal for aggressive playing styles, like metal, even when detuned, making them suitable for songs requiring a massive sound.

    Source
  • The Pro Steels' bright, lasting tone suits varying genres, from classic rock to alternative, allowing players to cover a broad range of musical styles.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Pro Steels' stainless steel build offers a bright tone that lasts without frequently breaking the bank, providing a cost-effective option for those needing durable strings.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Bryan Beller uses D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels

Bryan Beller

Bassist

Dethklok

...
Verified via Bryanbeller

Bryan Beller uses D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels strings, as detailed on his official website, bryanbeller.com.

See how Emma Anzai uses D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels

Emma Anzai

Singer, Bassist

Evanescence

...
Verified via BassPlayer.com

In an interview on BassPlayer.com, Emma Anzai of Sick Puppies mentions using D'Addario EPS165-5 Pro Steels strings, specifically utilizing the B, E, A, and D strings.

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 EPS165-5 Pro Steels, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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