Do you want a strong, full tone in the high register and a tight feel while playing? Then .050 bass guitar strings are an excellent choice. This .050-inch gauge G string offers extra tension, stability, and a richer tone than lighter alternatives. In this article, you'll learn why more and more bassists are choosing .050 strings, what the advantages are, and which sets you should consider.
What are .050 bass guitar strings?
A .050 string is the G string on your bass guitar with a diameter of 0.050 inches. This is thicker than the standard .045 or .040 string and is often used in medium-heavy or heavy string sets such as .050–.110 or .050–.105. This gauge provides:
- More tension and resistance
- More control over the tone
- A deeper, warmer sound in the high register
These properties make .050 strings popular with bassists who play powerfully, tune lower, or are looking for a solid, round sound.
Benefits of .050 bass guitar strings
Bass guitar strings with a .050 G string are ideal for bassists who:
- Want more sustain and tone stability
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Playing in a lower tuning or using drop tunings
- Playing powerfully with a pick or strong fingerstyle
- Want a warmer sound in the high range without sharpness
Thanks to the higher tension, these strings deliver a controlled and tight playing feel, even during intensive playing or live performances.
Popular string sets with .050 G string
There are several string sets on the market that come standard with a .050 G string. Some recommendations:
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Ernie Ball Power Slinky Bass (50–110) – Powerful roundwound strings with plenty of punch and definition
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D'Addario EXL160 (50–105) – bright tone with plenty of sustain and reliable tension
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DR Lo-Rider (50–110) – stainless steel strings with a tight attack and long life
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La Bella 760M Flatwound (50–110) – classic flatwound set with warm vintage sound
For those who want to put together their own string set, individual .050 strings from brands such as D'Addario, GHS and DR are also available separately.
What do you pay attention to when choosing?
When selecting .050 bass guitar strings, it's wise to consider the following points:
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Scale Length : Choose strings that fit your short, medium, or long scale bass
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String type : roundwound for brightness and bite, flatwound for warmth and softer attack
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Material : nickel for a balanced tone, steel for extra clarity
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Set Balance : Pair a .050 string with matching gauges such as .070 (D), .085 (A), and .105 or .110 (E) for a consistent feel
A well-tuned set contributes to ease of play, tone consistency and tuning stability.
More grip and character with .050 bass guitar strings
Ready for more control, tonal stability, and a fuller tone? Then .050 bass guitar strings are a powerful choice. Whether you're working in the studio, playing live, or just want to refine your sound, this gauge will help you get the most out of your playing.
