Next-Generation Slinky Flatwound Electric Bass Guitar Strings

(PRESS RELEASE): Ernie Ball Inc., the world’s leading manufacturer of guitar strings, musical instrument accessories and hand-crafted high-end Ernie Ball Music Man® guitars and basses, announces the introduction of its new Slinky Flatwound electric bass guitar strings. These highly innovative new offerings feature an “industry first” – combining two equally important bass tones in one – literally creating a “new category” of strings. This allows bass players to achieve a vibrant round wound sound, paired with the silky smooth feel of traditional flatwound strings. The announcement was made by Ernie Ball President Brian Ball and represents the latest groundbreaking product in the company’s legacy of innovation. It is also part of an intensive series of Ernie Ball product rollouts to be unveiled through the end of 2015 and into 2016.

“For over five decades, Ernie Ball has had a rich history of driving innovation in the Musical Instrument space and providing artists with pioneering products that allow them to create and develop their signature sound,” stated Brian Ball. “Developed with Ernie Ball's patented cobalt/steel alloy, our new Slinky Flatwound electric bass strings provide significantly more tonal versatility than any other bass string ever produced.”

As part of the development of the Slinky Flatwound electric bass stings, Ernie Ball’s R&D department road-tested the strings with some of today's most respected bass guitarists, including Pino Palladino (The Who, Paul Simon, John Mayer Trio), Matt Mangano (Zac Brown Band), Juan Alderete (Mars Volta, Deltron 3030), Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel), Mike Herrera (MxPx), Ed Friedland (The Bass Whisperer) and more.

“Having been involved in the development of Ernie Ball’s Slinky Flatwound strings, I can honestly say that they offer an innovative combination of feel, tone and durability unlike any other string I’ve played.  A game changer for bass players” – Pino Palladino, The Who, Paul Simon, John Mayer Trio

“The perfect balance of deep bottom, punchy mids, a smooth top-end...the quest for the perfect flatwound string is finally over.” - Matt Mangano, Zac Brown Band

“A successful hybrid of old and new-school characteristics that sounds great on vintage-style passive axes or modern machines with active electronics.” – Ed Friedland, Bass Player Magazine

Available in five four-string sets (40-95; 45-100; 45-115; 50-105; and 55-110) and a five-string set (45-130), the Slinky Flatwound electric bass strings are made using cobalt ribbon wire wrapped around hex cores with cobalt under-wraps for unmatched clarity and projection. Additionally, the strings feature an optimal core-to-warp ratio for comfortable tension and playability.

The new Ernie Ball Slinky Flatwound electric bass strings will be available in stores early May 2015 with an estimated U.S. street price of $34.99 (4-string) and $39.99 (5-string).

Learn more about the new strings here: www.ernieball.com/flatwound