D&#39;Addario EXL165-5 Nickelwound Long Scale 5-String Bass Set 45-135

$28.99 $21.99 $7.00 · All time low

4.6 (338)

$21.99

4.0 (3)

$28.99 $21.99 $7.00 · All time low

4.7 (196)

$28.00 $27.00 $1.00 · All time low

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "D'Addario EXL165-5 Nickelwound Long Scale 5-String Bass Set 45-135". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Elevate your bass playing experience with the D'Addario EXL165-5 Nickelwound Long Scale 5-String Bass Set. These strings, beloved across a spectrum of genres, are precision-engineered to cater to the nuanced needs of discerning bassists. They are renowned for their distinctive bright tone and versatility, fitting seamlessly into any musical setting. The EXL165-5 set combines the ideal balance of comfortable playability with a rich, rounded tone, ensuring your bass sounds its best whether you're laying down the groove in the studio or bringing the low end live on stage.

Crafted with D'Addario's state-of-the-art winding technology, each string in the set maintains excellent intonation, ensuring your bass not only sounds good but also feels right under your fingers. The nickel-plated steel wrap wire not only enhances durability but also contributes to the strings' bright, clear sound, making your bass lines cut through any mix with clarity and definition. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, the D'Addario EXL165-5 set offers a harmonious blend of tone, comfort, and reliability, making it a go-to choice for bass players worldwide.

Key Features:

Precision-wound with nickel-plated steel for a distinctive bright tone
Ideal for all playing styles with a universally appealing sound
Regular light top/medium bottom gauge combination for balanced playability
Long scale length suitable for a wide range of 5-string bass guitars
Gauges: .045, .065, .085, .105, .135 for versatile tonal options
Ensures excellent intonation and unparalleled consistency across the fretboard

Product specs

Guitar Type	Electric Bass
Number of Strings	5
Coated	No
Gauges	.045, .065, .085, .105, .135
Winding Type	Round Wound
Core Material	Hexagonal Steel
Winding Material	Nickel Plated Steel
Scale Length	Long, 36.875"

FAQs

What are the benefits of using D'Addario EXL165-5 Nickelwound strings for a 5-string bass?: D'Addario EXL165-5 strings offer a balanced combination of bright tone and smooth feel, thanks to their nickel-plated steel winding. They are designed for long-scale basses, providing excellent intonation and durability, making them suitable for various music styles.
Are D'Addario EXL165-5 strings suitable for all 5-string bass guitars?: These strings are optimized for long-scale basses with a scale length of up to 36.875 inches. Ensure your bass supports this scale length to achieve optimal performance and tuning stability.
What is the string gauge of the D'Addario EXL165-5 set and how does it affect playability?: The D'Addario EXL165-5 set features gauges of .045, .065, .085, .105, and .135. This regular light top/medium bottom configuration provides a balanced tension, offering both ease of playability and a full, punchy tone.
Do D'Addario EXL165-5 strings have a coating?: No, D'Addario EXL165-5 strings are not coated. They are nickel-plated steel roundwound strings, which contribute to their bright tone and smooth feel.
How do D'Addario EXL165-5 strings compare to other nickelwound strings?: D'Addario EXL165-5 strings are known for their consistent quality and reliability. The nickel-plated steel winding provides a bright yet warm tone, making them a popular choice among bass players seeking a versatile sound.

Reviews

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PROS

Excellent for down tuning, providing a rich and bold sound
Nickel strings are gentle on frets, reducing wear
Responsive feel and smooth to the touch, enhancing playability
Consistently high quality and durable, even with heavy use
Balanced tension set enhances bass feel, especially on a fast neck
Light-top medium-bottom strings offer long sustain and punchy tone
Great value for the price, offering quality at an affordable range
Versatile fit across various bass setups, including 34 and 35-inch scales

CONS

B and E string lengths might be short for some long-scale basses
Some users find the tone too clanky and stiff initially
Not all players enjoy the specific D'Addario sound and feel
Gauge selection may feel unconventional for those used to traditional sets

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about D'Addario EXL165-5 Nickelwound Long Scale 5-String Bass Set 45-135.

Comparisons

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Some owners prefer GHS Pressurewounds over D'Addario Halfrounds for a similar tone but better performance.
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0 0

EXL165-5 strings are used as a reliable alternative to Fender .045-.105 nickel rounds, which are less expensive.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

EXL165-5 strings are favored for maintaining a punchy attack suitable for funk and slap styles.
Source
0 0

EXL165-5 strings are recommended for players looking for strings that perform well both for slap techniques and warm tones in jazz settings.
Source

User experience

0 0

Owners of EXL165-5 strings note they remain reliable without breaking during gigs, even with extensive use.
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