D'Addario XL Chromes Flat Wound Bass Strings ECB80 - Super Light 40-95

In this review of the D'Addario XL Chromes Flat Wound Bass Strings ECB80, the bottom line is simple: these strings suit bassists who want a warm, ultra-smooth flatwound that tames finger noise and blends well in mixed ensembles. The set reviewed is the long scale Super Light 40-95, and the single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a dark, mellow tone with an exceptionally polished feel that lets fingers glide across the fretboard with minimal squeak. Our review focuses on feel, tonal character, and practical fit for common bass setups.

Key Features

• Mellow tone: Flat wound construction produces a smooth, warm sound that sits comfortably in mixes without harsh high-end glare.
• Polished wrap wire: The flattened stainless steel ribbon wrap is precisely polished for an almost silk-like feel and reduced finger noise during slides.
• Hex-Core stability: D'Addario's hex-core ensures reliable intonation and a consistent feel across the set so tuning and playability stay predictable.
• Low tension playability: Super Light 40-95 gauges give a bright attack with lighter tension, making bends and fingerstyle playing easier on long sessions.
• Made in the USA: Manufactured to exacting standards at D'Addario's New York facility, offering consistent build quality.
• Reward code included: The recyclable VCI bag contains a code you can register to earn Players Circle points if you participate in that program.

Who It's For

The XL Chromes ECB80 set is ideal for jazz, soul, and studio session players who prioritize a warm, rounded low end and a smooth, quiet fretboard feel. Players who value a dark tone that blends rather than cuts will appreciate how these strings remove unwanted brightness while preserving note clarity.

These are less suited to bassists who need aggressive, cutting treble or maximum brightness for slap and aggressive pick attack; round wound or brighter-coated strings are a better match for those styles. Note also that some users with very long 34' scale instruments reported mixed fit, so verify string length on your instrument before purchasing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptionally smooth, low-noise feel that reduces finger squeak during slides and position shifts.
• Warm, mellow tonal character that blends well in ensemble and studio settings.
• Consistent intonation and durability thanks to the hex-core construction.
• Light tension set makes technical playing and long sessions easier on the hands.

Cons

• Not ideal for players who need bright, cutting treble or aggressive slap articulation.
• Some customers report mixed length fit on certain 34' basses, so double-check compatibility.

Specifications

Product	XL Chromes Flat Wound Bass Strings ECB80
Gauge	Super Light 40-95
Scale	Long Scale
Wrap Wire	Flattened stainless steel ribbon, precisely polished
Core	High carbon steel hex-core
Origin	Made in the USA
Packaging	Recyclable VCI bag with registerable code

Our Verdict

For players seeking a warm, studio-friendly flatwound with an ultra-smooth feel, the D'Addario XL Chromes ECB80 Super Light set is a strong value. It delivers quiet playability, reliable intonation, and a pleasingly dark tone that blends into mixes, making it a sensible choice for jazz and session work while remaining easy on the fingers for long gigs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these fit a 34' scale bass?
They are long scale strings, but some users report mixed fit on certain 34' basses; check your instrument's string length or consult the seller if concerned.

How do they sound compared to round wounds?
They offer a much mellower, darker tone with reduced high-end attack and far less finger noise than round wound strings.

Are these durable for regular gigging?
Yes, the hex-core construction and polished wrap provide consistent durability, though longevity varies with playing style and maintenance.