As a veteran session and live performance bassist of 45 years, string quality has always been an important aspect. I had tried at least 5 different name-brands before settling on the Ernie Ball "slinky" series. For my vintage fretless 5 string, I use the 2836 regular slinky "Bass 5" set. The strings break in quick and the harmonic response , tonality and flexibility seem to last for up to 8 months even under heavy use! Likewise, the slinky strings don?t "eat" my fingerboard, which is very important when using round wound strings on a fretless bass. I will add to all the above that Ernie Ball bass strings are in my opinion, the best "band for the buck" for any professional bassist .I will remain a loyal endorser of the "Slinky Bass 5" set and highly recommend it as the best all around string to my fellow "5 stringers" for durability, harmonic response and affordability. In 3 words: These Strings last!!!