Ernie Ball Power Slinky 5-String Nickel Wound Electric Bass Strings - 50-135 Gauge. The world’s #1 electric bass strings. Ernie Ball’s signature recipe consists of specific gauges and core to wrap ratios for balanced rich harmonics and that signature Slinky feel. Using the finest and freshest raw materials, every string is manufactured using state of the art winding technology and undergoes strict quality control standards. Nickel Wound Slinky bass strings consist of nickel plated steel wrapped around a tin plated high carbon steel core for a balanced tone that compliments all electric bass types and playing styles.