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Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ernie Ball 2801 Flatwound Short-scale Electric Bass Guitar Strings, .045-.105, Group 2". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Ernie Ball 2801 Flatwound Short-scale Electric Bass Guitar Strings offer a rich, warm vintage tone that bassists love, especially those who play jazz, blues, and R&B. Designed specifically for short-scale basses, these strings provide excellent tension balance, enhancing your instrument's playability and tone. The polished stainless steel ribbon winding ensures a glass-like feel that glides smoothly across the fingerboard, significantly reducing finger noise and unwanted string squeaks. This flatwound design not only delivers a consistent mellow tone but also withstands the rigors of regular playing, thanks to the sturdy tin-plated steel hex cores.
Crafted in Ernie Ball's Coachella, California factory, these strings meet stringent quality standards through advanced winding technology. Whether you're aiming for the upright bass warmth of classic Motown or exploring modern neo-soul vibes, these strings can handle it all. The short-scale design, optimized for popular basses like the Fender Mustang and Höfner Violin Bass, ensures superior intonation and resonance. Perfect for both seasoned musicians and beginners, these strings offer an easy-playing feel and are a fantastic choice for adding a touch of vintage authenticity to your music.
Key Features:
- Polished stainless steel ribbon winding for a smooth, glass-like feel
- Rich, warm vintage tone ideal for jazz, R&B, and blues
- Short scale design (32.5" taper) for improved playability
- Precision wound for superior intonation and resonance
- Manufactured in Coachella, CA, with strict quality control standards
Product specs
| Guitar Type | Electric Bass |
| Number of Strings | 4 |
| Coated | No |
| Gauges | .045, .065, .085, .105 |
| Winding Type | Flat Wound |
| Core Material | Steel |
| Winding Material | Stainless Steel |
| Scale Length | Short, 32" |
FAQs
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Are Ernie Ball 2801 Flatwound Short-scale Strings suitable for all short-scale bass guitars?
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Yes, these strings are designed specifically for short-scale bass guitars, which typically have a scale length of around 32 inches, making them an ideal fit for such instruments.
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What tone can I expect from Ernie Ball 2801 Flatwound Strings?
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These flatwound strings provide a smooth, warm tone with reduced brightness, making them ideal for jazz, blues, and classic rock genres.
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Do Ernie Ball 2801 Flatwound Strings reduce finger noise?
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Yes, the flatwound design of these strings significantly reduces finger noise, offering a smoother playing experience and cleaner sound.
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Will these strings fit a bass with a 34-inch scale length?
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No, the Ernie Ball 2801 Flatwound Strings are specifically designed for short-scale basses and may not fit properly on a standard 34-inch scale bass.
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How do flatwound strings like the Ernie Ball 2801 affect playability?
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Flatwound strings are known for their smoother surface and lower tension, which can make them easier to play and gentler on the fingers, especially for beginners.
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ernie Ball 2801 Flatwound Short-scale Electric Bass Guitar Strings, .045-.105, Group 2.
Features and functionality
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The Ernie Ball 2801 Cobalt flats are noted for their bright sound profile, which is unique for flatwounds, offering more treble presence akin to some roundwounds.
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User experience
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These strings have been described as having a "cold glass" feel when new, transitioning to a warmer tone upon breaking in, which some users find appealing.
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A common tactile feedback is a "sticky" feel, compared to a spiderweb, which some users find undesirable despite the strings' tonal benefits.
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Comparisons
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Compared to Fender 9050s and LaBella DTF, these strings have a more "organic" matte finish, described as less slick and more tactile.
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Use cases and applications
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Ideal for a range of musical styles, they are favored for producing a bright yet mellow sound that can suit classic rock tones, reminiscent of Led Zeppelin.
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