Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (8)
$36.33
Guitar Center
4.0 (1)
$39.99
Amazon
4.4 (146)
$36.33 New
$13.21 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
$34.12 25 available New
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$39.99

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Bass Strings (40-95)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unlock a new dimension of sound with Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Bass Strings (40-95). Designed for bassists seeking both comfort and performance, these strings feature a revolutionary cobalt alloy that delivers unparalleled output and clarity. The cobalt composition is the most magnetically responsive alloy available, ensuring a stronger connection with your pickups for a bolder, more expressive sound.

These strings don't just sound incredible—they feel incredible too. The extra-slinky design is silky smooth under your fingers, making fast runs and complex passages feel like second nature. Whether you're laying down beefy rhythms or intricate solos, the enhanced low-end growl and precise high-end definition ensure your music cuts through the mix with ease.

Resistant to sweat and moisture, Ernie Ball's cobalt strings also promise longevity without sacrificing their bright, crisp tone. Precision-engineered and manufactured in the USA, these strings set the standard for quality and consistency, making them a must-have for any serious bass player.

Key Features:

  • Revolutionary cobalt alloy for higher output and clarity
  • Round-wound for maximum clarity and punch
  • Increased sustain and harmonic response
  • Superior resistance to sweat and moisture
  • Silky smooth feel for effortless playability
  • Gauges: .040, .060, .070, .095
  • Made in the USA

Product specs

Guitar Type Electric Bass
Number of Strings 4
Coated No
Gauges .040, .060, .070, .095
Winding Type Round Wound
Core Material Steel
Winding Material Iron/Cobalt Alloy
Scale Length Long

FAQs

What are the benefits of using Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Bass Strings?

These strings provide enhanced output and clarity due to their iron/cobalt alloy, offering a brighter tone and increased sustain compared to traditional nickel-wound strings.

Are Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Bass Strings suitable for all playing styles?

These strings are particularly well-suited for genres requiring bright and articulate tones, such as funk and pop, but their versatile sound can complement various styles.

How do the gauges of Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Bass Strings affect playability?

With gauges of .040, .060, .070, and .095, these strings offer a lighter tension, making them easier to play and ideal for fast finger movements and intricate playing techniques.

Do Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Bass Strings last longer than traditional strings?

While they are not coated, the use of cobalt provides greater durability and longevity, maintaining their bright tone longer than typical nickel strings.

Can Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Bass Strings be used on any bass guitar?

These strings are designed for electric bass guitars with a long scale length, making them compatible with most standard bass models.

Axe 2 Grind

Axe 2 Grind

Ernie Ball Slinky Cobalt 40-95's Review - The Best Bass Strings Ever Made.

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Slinky Cobalt 40-95's Review - The Best Bass Strings Ever Made. by Axe 2 Grind

Ernie Ball Slinky Cobalt 40-95's Review - The Best Bass Strings Ever Made.

Axe 2 Grind

Axe 2 Grind

Video thumbnail for Bass String Gauge Comparison - Extra, Super, Regular Slinky by Klemens Cathcart Bass

Bass String Gauge Comparison - Extra, Super, Regular Slinky

Klemens Cathcart Bass

Klemens Cathcart Bass

Video thumbnail for COMPARATIVA cuerdas ERNIE BALL  Extra Slinky VS COBALT 45-105, Cual te GUSTA MAS??? by ISMAEL TERÁN

COMPARATIVA cuerdas ERNIE BALL Extra Slinky VS COBALT 45-105, Cual te GUSTA MAS???

ISMAEL TERÁN

ISMAEL TERÁN

Reviews

PROS

  • Remarkable longevity and sustained brightness compared to traditional strings

  • High output and clear articulation in band settings

  • Balanced tone with a low-mid boost and tightened high end

  • Smooth feel similar to nickel round wounds

  • Works well with headless bass systems

  • Enhances tone on specific bass models like Rick 4003 and Ibanez

  • Loud and full sound, even unplugged

  • Boosted EQ and natural volume interaction with pickups

  • Versatile across different bass models and playing techniques

  • Durable, withstands heavy playing without breaking

CONS

  • High strings prone to breaking with aggressive playing

  • Feels rougher compared to some smoother strings

  • Tendency to rust more than other brands

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Bass Strings (40-95).

Comparisons

  • Ernie Ball Cobalt flats are considered as bright as D'Addario Chromes out of the pack, with more mid-focus and aggressive tone compared to other flats.

    Source
  • Cobalt flats offer a tone similar to a deader roundwound, with brightness unmatched by other flatwounds but still less than any roundwound.

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  • Users contrast these strings with LaBella Deep Talkin’ and Fender 9050s, highlighting the latter for better durability and a warmer vintage sound.

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  • Cobalt flats are compared to GHS Pressurewounds for lack of squeak and brightness, though the Cobalts are a bit grabby initially.

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User experience

  • Owners report maintaining brightness for months, with highs mellowing over time but remaining bright for flatwounds.

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  • Owners appreciate the hybrid sound, describing it as a blend of flatwound feel with bright, roundwound-like tone, suitable for genres needing clarity and punch.

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  • Owners note that Cobalt flats are the only strings available in specific gauges required for certain tunings, such as using the bottom four of a five-string set for C tuning.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A user experienced intonation issues with the G string on Cobalt flats, suggesting potential for quick wear compared to typical flatwounds.

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  • To prevent rust, it's recommended to wipe down strings after playing, especially if played outdoors or in high humidity.

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  • It's advised to wipe down Cobalts with alcohol or WD40 before installation due to residual machine oil, which can cause a metallic smell.

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Build quality

  • Multiple owners report rust issues, especially in outdoor or humid environments, with some experiencing rust after just one or two uses.

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  • Some users noted rough spots on the A string, suggesting possible quality control issues with the string windings.

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  • Some users reported that new Cobalt flats might smell strongly of metal until they are broken in.

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Features and functionality

  • Strings are described as having lower tension compared to traditional flatwounds, offering a smooth slide and bright sound without the typical thud.

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  • The cobalt alloy outer wrap in these strings provides higher magnetic output compared to steel or nickel, contributing to their bright, roundwound-like sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Cobalt flats suit aggressive basses like the Stingray, taming their tone while maintaining versatility for slapping without a dull thud.

    Source

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