Pricing and availability

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ernie Ball 50-105". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your bass playing with the Ernie Ball 50-105 Slinky Bass Strings, the choice of legends and emerging artists alike. Crafted with precision in the heart of Southern California, these strings are designed for musicians who demand clarity and punch from every note. The nickel-plated steel wrap ensures a vibrant resonance that complements any playing style, while the high-carbon steel core offers strength and stability for those powerful low-end grooves.

These strings are engineered with Ernie Ball's signature formula, providing a balanced and rich harmonic output that bass players have cherished for over half a century. The 50-105 gauge set delivers a robust yet flexible feel, perfect for both aggressive slap techniques and smooth, melodic passages. Each string is wound with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring consistency and durability, while the Element Shield packaging keeps them as fresh as the day they were made, ready to deliver that iconic Slinky feel every time you plug in.

Whether you're rocking the stage or jamming in the studio, the Ernie Ball Slinky Bass Strings promise a timeless tone that stands out in any mix. Trust in the strings used by icons like Jimmy Page and Slash, and experience why these strings remain a staple in the world of music.

Key Features:

  • String Gauges: .050, .070, .085, .105
  • Roundwound for maximum clarity and punch
  • Nickel-plated steel wrap with a tin-plated high carbon steel core
  • Suitable for all bass guitar types and playing styles
  • Crafted in the USA with premium materials
  • Element Shield packaging for prolonged string life and freshness

Product specs

Guitar Type Electric Bass
Number of Strings 4
Coated No
Gauges .050, .070, .085, .105
Winding Type Round Wound
Core Material Hexagonal Steel
Winding Material Nickel Plated Steel
Scale Length Long

FAQs

What type of bass guitar are Ernie Ball 50-105 strings best suited for?

Ernie Ball 50-105 strings are designed for electric bass guitars, providing a balanced tone suitable for various music genres, especially rock and pop.

What is the winding type of the Ernie Ball 50-105 bass strings?

The Ernie Ball 50-105 bass strings feature a round wound design, which offers a bright, full tone with a smooth feel, ideal for versatile playing styles.

Are Ernie Ball 50-105 bass strings coated?

No, Ernie Ball 50-105 bass strings are not coated. They are made with nickel-plated steel, which provides a classic, bright sound without the added smoothness of coated strings.

What is the scale length compatibility for Ernie Ball 50-105 bass strings?

Ernie Ball 50-105 bass strings are designed for long-scale bass guitars, ensuring optimal tension and tone across the fretboard.

How do Ernie Ball 50-105 strings affect the sound of my bass?

These strings offer a punchy, bright tone with a balanced frequency response, making them ideal for cutting through mixes in live and studio settings.

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent longevity, lasting months without losing punch

  • Consistent quality and reliability over years of use

  • Retain a strong, punchy tone even after extended use

  • High-quality metal construction with a premium feel

  • Suitable for various bass styles and gauges

  • Easy to handle with a comfortable feel

  • Quick break-in period, ready to play in about a day

  • Offers great value for the quality provided

  • Versatile across multiple bass and guitar models

CONS

  • May corrode quickly with high sweat or PH levels

  • Loses initial "zing" after a short period

  • Some users find them less value for the price due to tone fade

  • Not groundbreaking; similar performance to other brands

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ernie Ball 50-105.

Setup and maintenance

  • Heavier 50-105 strings offer higher tension, making them suitable for lower tunings compared to lighter 45-100 sets.

    Source
  • A 105 gauge string struggles with tuning below D, making it unsuitable for achieving a low B without compromising sound quality.

    Source

User experience

  • Beginners often favor lighter strings for ease of fretting, while seasoned players may prefer the stability of heavier gauges.

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Comparisons

  • LaBella Deep Talkin Bass flats are suggested as an alternative for those seeking a different tonal quality from Ernie Ball strings.

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Features and functionality

  • Flats are stiffer and higher tension than rounds, suggesting a gauge downshift for players accustomed to roundwound strings.

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Use cases and applications

  • The 50-105 set is recommended for traditional and simple bass lines, while busier, melodic playing might benefit from lighter gauges.

    Source
  • Playing metal in EADG tuning is suitable for styles like Iron Maiden but not for bands like Korn or Slipknot, which require lower tunings.

    Source

Other

  • Ernie Ball cobalt flats may appeal to users preferring a brighter tone compared to traditional flats.

    Source

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