Elixir Strings Nickel Plated Steel Bass Strings with NANOWEB Coating

In this review the Elixir Nickel Plated Steel 4-string bass strings with NANOWEB coating are evaluated for working bassists who want long-lasting tone and a smooth feel. These strings stand out for their ultra-thin NANOWEB coating and nickel-plated steel wrap that deliver a bright, rounded tone and a pronounced mid-range. The set is aimed at players who value longevity and clarity over the raw, uncoated break-in brightness, and the option to add an extra long Medium B 5th string makes customization straightforward.

Key Features

• Nickel-plated steel wrap: provides a bright but rounded tonal character with strong mid-range presence that suits punchy bass lines and clear articulation.
• Ultra-thin NANOWEB Coating: redesigned for bass guitars to deliver a natural feel and improved grip while protecting the core and wrap from corrosion.
• Extended tone life: patented coating technology helps the strings retain their tone significantly longer than typical coated or uncoated strings according to player surveys.
• Custom 5th string option: the Medium B extra long scale 5th string (taperwound 130tw) allows players to expand a 4-string set for extended range without buying a full 5-string set.
• Smooth playing surface: the coating produces a buttery feel that many players find comfortable for fast runs and fingerstyle work.

Who It's For

These strings suit gigging bassists and studio players who need consistent tone over long stretches of play and who prefer a coated string that keeps brightness without feeling plasticky. Players who like a pronounced mid-range for cutting through mixes will appreciate the voiced character of the nickel-plated wrap.

Casual players who prefer the very first-day raw brightness of uncoated strings or those on a strict budget may want to look at uncoated alternatives, since the coated set is positioned for durability and long-term value rather than the sharpest initial sheen.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent longevity and corrosion resistance thanks to the patented NANOWEB coating.
• Consistent, rounded tone with clear mid-range presence that works well in mixes.
• Comfortable, smooth feel that many players describe as buttery for fast playing.

Cons

• The coated surface slightly alters the immediate break-in brightness compared with uncoated strings, which some players notice and may not prefer.

Specifications

Brand	Elixir
Wrap material	Nickel-plated steel
Coating	Ultra-thin NANOWEB Coating (redesigned for bass)
Optional additional string	Medium B extra long scale 5th string, taperwound 130tw
Intended instrument	Electric bass guitar
Tone characteristics	Rounded tone, strong mid-range presence, clear articulation

Our Verdict

For bassists who value long-term tone retention and a smooth playing feel, these Elixir nickel-plated steel strings with NANOWEB coating are a solid investment and offer very good value for gigging and studio use. The option to add an extra long Medium B 5th string makes them flexible for players who need expanded range without buying a full new set.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these strings feel coated or slick?
They have an ultra-thin NANOWEB coating that feels smooth and slightly grippy, described by many players as buttery rather than slick.

How long do they keep their tone?
Elixir reports and player feedback indicate these retain tone longer than many coated or uncoated sets due to the patented coating protection.

Can I add a custom 5th string?
Yes, the line offers a Medium B extra long scale taperwound 130tw to customize a 4-string set into a 5-string configuration.