Description
Ernie Ball’s 2816 Regular Slinky Flatwounds give five-string bass players a set that plays like vintage flats but responds like modern rounds. At the core of this construction is Cobalt, an alloy engineered to couple more strongly with pickup magnets than standard string materials, resulting in a hotter output, richer tonal detail, and extended playing life before the strings go dull.
- Gauges: .045, .065, .080, .100, .130
- SuperBright Cobalt ribbon outer wrap for a polished, flat surface feel
- Cobalt under-wrap layered beneath the flatwound ribbon
- Hex-core to wrap-wire ratio tuned specifically for balanced tension and response
- 5-string set built for extended-range bass setups
What sets this set apart from typical flatwounds is how it behaves under the fingers and through an amp. You get the low-friction, fret-friendly surface that flat players chase, but the Cobalt formulation keeps the top end from going muddy or lifeless. Instead of the usual dark, closed-off voice associated with flats, these strings retain a touch of growl and brightness more commonly found in roundwounds, making them useful for players who want flatwound comfort without sacrificing articulation on the low B or upper strings.
Whether you’re tracking in the studio or playing live, the .045-.130 gauge spread offers a familiar medium tension feel across the five strings, suited to players moving between flat and round setups without a jarring adjustment period.






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