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Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ernie Ball 2805 Stainless Steel Flatwounds Bass Strings, .045-.105, Group 2.5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Transform your bass playing with the Ernie Ball 2805 Stainless Steel Flatwounds Bass Strings, .045-.105, Group 2.5. These strings are crafted for those who crave a smooth, glass-like touch and a rich, warm tone that stands out across genres. With precision winding using a polished stainless steel ribbon, Ernie Ball ensures every note resonates with a vintage-inspired warmth, perfect for jazz, R&B, and funk enthusiasts.
Designed and manufactured in Ernie Ball's Coachella, California facility, these flatwounds benefit from cutting-edge winding technology and stringent quality checks. The result is a set of strings that not only feel exceptional to play but also exhibit remarkable durability and consistency. The stainless steel construction provides a robust core and minimizes unwanted string noise, making them ideal for players looking to reduce finger squeak and enhance their expressiveness.
Whether you're laying down a smooth groove in the studio or performing live, these strings offer a balanced blend of low-end thump, midrange punch, and clear highs. Their unique feel reduces hand fatigue, allowing for extended playing sessions without discomfort. Discover the authentic sound of flatwounds with Ernie Ball's meticulous craftsmanship and see why they're a staple among discerning bassists.
Key Features:
- Polished stainless steel ribbon winding for a smooth, glass-like feel
- Rich, warm tone ideal for vintage genres like jazz, R&B, and funk
- Precision wound with custom gauges for optimal sound quality
- Long scale set, perfect for 34" scale basses
- Crafted in Coachella, California with state-of-the-art technology
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 | Long, 37.25" |
FAQs
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What are the tonal characteristics of Ernie Ball 2805 Stainless Steel Flatwounds Bass Strings?
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These strings offer a smooth, warm tone with less finger noise due to their flatwound design, making them ideal for jazz, blues, and classic rock styles.
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Are Ernie Ball 2805 Flatwound Bass Strings suitable for long-scale bass guitars?
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Yes, these strings are designed for long-scale bass guitars with a scale length of 37.25 inches.
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How do Ernie Ball 2805 Flatwound Bass Strings compare to roundwound strings?
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Flatwound strings like the Ernie Ball 2805 provide a smoother feel and a more mellow tone, with less sustain and brightness compared to roundwound strings.
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What is the gauge size of Ernie Ball 2805 Stainless Steel Flatwound Bass Strings?
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The gauge sizes for these strings are .045, .065, .085, and .105.
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Are Ernie Ball 2805 Flatwound Bass Strings coated?
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No, these strings are not coated, which contributes to their natural feel and tone.
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ernie Ball 2805 Stainless Steel Flatwounds Bass Strings, .045-.105, Group 2.5.
User experience
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Owners describe the strings as having a "sticky" feel, similar to a spiderweb, which is distinct from the slick feel of other flatwound strings.
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Some players found the strings to feel cold and less warm, which might not suit those seeking a warmer, more traditional flatwound sound.
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Initially, these strings feel like "cold glass," but they warm up in tone over time, maintaining a balanced sound with pronounced mids and highs.
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The Cobalt flats are preferred for their unique "glass-like" feel and bright tonal character, making them a favorite for those seeking a distinct sound.
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Features and functionality
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The strings maintain a bright tone for flats, even when used over extended periods, making them suitable for players seeking sustained brightness.
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Comparisons
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Compared to LaBella DTF and Fender 9050s, the Ernie Ball flats are noted for their smoother matte finish and organic feel, rather than a polished metallic texture.
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Compared to Rotosound 66s, the initial brightness of these strings doesn't diminish as quickly, offering a more stable bright tone over time.
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Use cases and applications
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Users report that these strings work well with drive effects and can achieve a Led Zeppelin-like tone on a Precision Bass.
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On a Ric 4003, these strings have been described as maintaining brightness even after five years, and can achieve a Jamerson tone with foam muting.
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Users find these strings effective for achieving a Led Zeppelin-like tone on a Precision Bass, particularly when paired with drive effects.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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The Ernie Ball 2805 Stainless Steel Flatwounds Bass Strings, .045-.105, Group 2.5, are confirmed to be used by bassist Joe Dart, as they are the stock strings for his signature basses from Music Man. This is supported by observations of the blue silk at the ends of his basses, as noted on the Music Man website.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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