Elixir Strings Stainless Steel 5-String Bass Strings Light/Medium

In this review the Elixir Stainless Steel 5-String Bass Strings are assessed for bassists who need bright, long-lasting tone without frequent restringing. The single biggest reason to buy is the ultra-thin NANOWEB coating that protects the entire string including the gaps between windings, which players report preserves tone and feel far longer than uncoated sets. For anyone who values consistent brightness, low-end clarity, and strings that stay playable for months, these strings deliver a reliable, modern stainless sound with a surprisingly natural feel.

Key Features

• Stainless steel wrap: Delivers a bright but balanced tone with clear mids and crisp highs while retaining deep, defined lows for five-string basses.
• NANOWEB coating: An ultra-thin coating protects against corrosion and buildup, extending usable tone life compared with uncoated alternatives.
• Redesigned for bass: Coating and construction are tailored specifically for bass guitar tension and response, improving feel and attack for electric bass players.
• Smooth natural feel: The coating provides a comfortable touch that still allows grip and articulation, similar to the feel some players liken to upright strings.
• Long scale, light/medium gauge: The.045-.135 set balances playability and punch for players who need a versatile low B and solid midrange presence.

Who It's For

The Elixir Stainless Steel 5-String set is best for gigging bassists, session players, and hobbyists who want a bright, sustaining stainless tone that resists finger oils and grime over time. Players who change strings infrequently or who hate losing tone rapidly will appreciate the extended life and consistent feel.

Those seeking an extremely warm, vintage flatwound sound or an uncoated feel that changes quickly with playing might look elsewhere, since the NANOWEB coating preserves brightness and limits the rapid tonal darkening some players prefer for specific vintage tones.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Long-lasting tone retention thanks to full-string coating that protects windings and gaps.
• Bright and articulate stainless steel sound with clear mids and strong lows suitable for modern bass styles.
• Comfortable, smooth feel that still allows good finger grip and articulation.
• Durable performance reported by players to last several months before noticeable decline.

Cons

• Coating preserves brightness, which may not suit players seeking a rapidly mellowing, vintage-dark tone.
• Light/medium gauge may feel too loose for those who prefer very heavy tension or thick thumb-style playing.

Specifications

Brand	Elixir
Set Type	5-String electric bass strings
Coating	Ultra-thin NANOWEB full-string coating
Wrap Wire	Stainless steel
Scale	Long Scale
Gauge	Light/Medium.045.065.085.105.135
Designed For	Bass guitars, tailored construction for bass tension and feel

Our Verdict

These Elixir stainless steel 5-string bass strings are a strong choice for players who prioritize sustained brightness and reduced maintenance. The NANOWEB coating and bass-specific redesign give reliable tone life and a comfortable feel, making them good value for gigging and recording bassists who want consistent performance over months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do these strings typically hold tone?
Many players report sustained tone for several months; the NANOWEB coating slows corrosion and buildup compared with uncoated strings.

Will these strings suit drop B and low tunings?
Yes, the long scale and light/medium gauges including a.135 low string provide usable tension and clarity for extended low tunings.

Do the coated strings feel sticky or slippery?
The ultra-thin coating yields a smooth, natural feel that still offers enough grip for common finger and pick techniques without feeling sticky.