Upgrade Your U•BASS® Tone: A Look at the KA-BASS-4FW Flatwound String Set by Gallistrings

If you’re a U•BASS® player looking to refine your tone and improve playability, flatwound strings might be your next best upgrade. The KA-BASS-4FW Flatwound 4-String Set by Gallistrings, designed specifically for the Kala U•BASS®, offers a smooth feel, rich tone, and improved durability—all while bringing your sound closer to that of an upright bass.

But are they the right strings for you? Let’s dive in!

Why Switch to Flatwound Strings?

If you've been using traditional polyurethane or roundwound strings, you may have noticed some common issues:
✅ Finger noise while sliding or shifting positions
✅ A slightly “rubbery” feel with stock polyurethane strings
✅ Overly bright tones with some roundwounds that don’t match the deep, warm character of a U•BASS®

Flatwound strings solve these problems by offering:
🎵 Smooth Playability – The chrome flatwound tape lets your fingers glide effortlessly.
🎵 Warm, Upright Bass-Like Tone – More controlled highs and a deep, mellow sound.
🎵 Better Intonation & Stability – Thanks to the nylon core and steel wrap, these strings hold their tuning better than polyurethane options.
🎵 Less Wear on Frets & Fretboard – Particularly useful for fretless U•BASS® players!

KA-BASS-4FW Flatwound String Set: What You Need to Know

The KA-BASS-4FW Flatwound 4-String Set is built for acoustic-electric U•BASS® instruments and provides a high-tension feel with a traditional EADG tuning.

Specs at a Glance:

• Material: Flatwound Chrome Steel wrapped around a Nylon Core

• Tuning: EADG (Standard Bass Tuning)

• Compatible With: 20”-21” Scale Acoustic-Electric U•BASS®

• String Gauges:

  • E: .130 (3.30 mm)

  • A: .100 (2.54 mm)

  • D: .080 (2.03 mm)

  • G: .060 (1.52 mm)

• Feel & Sound: Smooth, warm, and stable—closer to an upright bass

What Makes These Strings Stand Out?

Unlike polyurethane or roundwound strings, the KA-BASS-4FW set gives you a balanced mix of warmth, clarity, and smooth feel. The flatwound design reduces friction, making slides and finger movement effortless.

Perfect for:
🎸 Fretted & fretless U•BASS® players
🎸 Jazz, blues, folk, and acoustic bassists who want a more organic sound
🎸 Players transitioning from an upright bass

Installation & Compatibility: A Few Important Notes

Because these strings have a higher tension than traditional U•BASS® strings, some adjustments may be needed:

⚠️ Nut Slot Modifications: These strings are thicker than polyurethane strings, so the nut slots may need widening. The Flat Wound U•BASS® Nut by TUSQ® is available as an easier fix (professional installation recommended).

⚠️ Truss Rod Adjustment: Due to the increased tension, adjusting the truss rod may be necessary for optimal neck relief.

⚠️ Warranty Considerations: If you modify the nut or drill string holes yourself, you may void your instrument's manufacturer warranty. If unsure, take your U•BASS® to a professional luthier for installation.

🚫 Not compatible with solid-body U•BASS® models.

Final Thoughts: Are These Strings Worth It?

With a 4.8/5 rating from 112 reviews, the KA-BASS-4FW Flatwound set is one of the most well-loved U•BASS® string upgrades on the market. Whether you're looking for a more upright bass-like tone, a smoother feel, or just better stability and intonation, these strings deliver.

If you're ready to take your U•BASS® playing to the next level, check them out here: Order Here!

Have you tried flatwound strings on your U•BASS®? Drop a comment below and let us know your thoughts!