D'Addario - 45-132 5-String Flat Wound Super Long Scale Bass - Regular Light #ECB81-5SL
XL Chromes are among the warmest, mellowest bass strings we have to offer. These flat wound strings provide an ultra-smooth feel and a dark, yet warm tone, while allowing movement across the fretboard with no finger noise.
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The Nantel Verdict
The Nantel Verdict
Flat wound construction delivers ultra-smooth feel and finger silence; XL Chromes formula produces dark, warm tone with extended sustain; super long scale (0.105"-0.132") accommodates deeper tuning ranges and increased tension; regular light gauge balances playability with tonal presence.
Super long scale fitting required—verify bridge pin compatibility. Ideal for 35" scale instruments; check headstock geometry for string clearance. Flat wounds require less frequent replacement than rounds but demand gentler technique to preserve surface. Setup adjustment may be needed after installation.
D'Addario's XL Chromes define the flat wound standard for controlled warmth and whisper-quiet playing. These super long scale sets anchor lower tunings with composure, delivering the sonic character that defines classic rock and contemporary jazz bass work.
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45-132Regular Light 5-String Super Long Scale Bass Strings
XL Chromes are among the warmest, mellowest bass strings we have to offer. These flat wound strings provide an ultra-smooth feel and a dark, yet warm tone, while allowing movement across the fretboard with no finger noise. Made with a high carbon steel core, Chromes stainless steel flattened ribbon wrap wire is expertly wound onto a series of interlocking under-windings, then precisely polished for unparalleled smoothness and a tonal presence which blends beautifully into the mix. Made for 5-string basses, 45-132 Regular Light Super Long Scale strings provide players with a versatile, super long scale option, in our most popular string gauge.
Product Specs
- Coating: Uncoated
- Number Of Strings: 5
- Set Type: Sets
- Wrap Material: Stainless Steel
- Construction: Flat Wound
- Fretted Instrument Type: 5-String Bass
- Scale Length: Super Long
Product Features
- XL Chromes are a flat wound electric bass string, which provide a mellower tone than round wound strings.
- Chromes stainless steel flattened ribbon wrap wire is precisely polished for unparalleled smoothness and a dark, yet warm tone.
- Like all D’Addario bass strings, XL Chromes are made with our proprietary Hex-Core, ensuring perfect intonation, consistent feel, and reliable durability.
- Chromes sets have a code on the recyclable VCI bag, which you can register to earn Players Circle points.
- D’Addario bass guitar strings are made in the USA—drawn to our exacting specifications at our New York production facility.
String Tension Chart
| Item # | Note | Tension |
|---|---|---|
| - | G2 | 52.700 lbs |
| - | D2 | 60.500 lbs |
| - | A1 | 51.200 lbs |
| CB100 | E1 | 45.200 lbs |
| CB132 | B0 | 46.900 lbs |
| String Count | 5 |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 45-132 (Regular Light) |
| Scale Length | Super Long Scale |
| Winding Type | Flat Wound |
| Series | XL Chromes |
| Model | ECB81-5SL |
D'Addario is a legendary American string manufacturer with a heritage spanning centuries, renowned for pioneering innovations in string technology and quality. The company's commitment to precision manufacturing and tonal excellence has made it the choice of professional musicians across all genres and skill levels worldwide.
D'Addario's XL Chromes series represents the brand's expertise in flat wound string construction, delivering instruments that combine smooth playability with sophisticated, controlled tone—a signature approach that defines the brand's reputation for reliability and sonic refinement.

