Detail 01
Soft/medium gauge
Lower tension than a standard set. Easier fretting and vibrato, slightly less output and low-end thickness.
Product detailSKU #1274034477875
D'AddarioEXL170M XL Soft/Medium Bass String Set
1/4
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
A nickel-wound long-scale bass set from D'Addario's XL line in a soft/medium gauge. For 4-string players who want a lighter feel than standard mediums.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Players who find regular gauge sets stiff under the fingers
- Fingerstyle bassists wanting easier string bending
- Standard tuning on a long-scale 4-string
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Drop tunings — lighter gauge will feel floppy and buzz
- 5-string basses, which need a low B in the set
- Short-scale basses where the winding length may not fit
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Nickel wound
Warmer and less abrasive on frets than stainless steel, with a rounder top end.
Detail 03
Long scale
Cut for 34-inch basses. Check winding length before using on short- or medium-scale instruments.
Detail 04
XL round wound
Bright and articulate when new, with the ridged texture roundwounds give under the fingers.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Dropping to a lighter gauge usually means truss rod and intonation adjustment
- 02Single set — no spares, tools, or winder
- 03Check your bass is 34-inch scale before ordering
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Will these fit a 5-string bass?
No. This is a 4-string set with no low B. D'Addario makes a 5-string version separately.
02Are these string-through-body compatible?
Long-scale sets usually cover string-through routing, but measure your bass from ball end to nut to be certain.
03Do I need a setup after switching to these?
If you are coming from heavier strings, likely yes. Lower tension changes neck relief and action.
04How do nickel strings compare to stainless?
Nickel is warmer with a softer attack and is gentler on frets. Stainless is brighter and more aggressive.
