DR Hi-Beam string set 5 string bass, stainless steel wound on round core,
- 045-065-085-105-125
- 045-065-085-105-130
MR5‑130 is DR’s Hi‑Beam stainless‑steel, round‑core, long‑scale 5‑string bass set in .045–.130 gauge, known for bright tone, flexibility, and long life.
What MR5‑130 Is
A 5‑string Hi‑Beam set using stainless‑steel roundwound wire on a round core
Gauge: .045–.130 (medium to heavy)
Long scale, fitting instruments up to 37 3/4" scale length
Designed for electric 5‑string basses, including those needing a firm, articulate low‑B.
Tonal Character
Across the results, Hi‑Beams are consistently described as:
Bright and musical, but not harshly bright
Highly flexible thanks to the round core
Punchy, with strong clarity and string‑to‑string balance
Long‑lasting, retaining brightness longer than many stainless sets
Players note:
“Lots of Zzing when fresh… still long lasting without losing tone and comfort”
“They don’t eat your frets” — a repeated claim in DR’s own description
Feel & Playability
Round‑core construction gives a softer, more flexible feel than hex‑core stainless strings
Suitable for slap, pop, and articulate fingerstyle; one reviewer highlights them as ideal for bright slap tones
Construction Details
Stainless‑steel wrap for brightness and durability
Round core for warmth, flexibility, and a more “vintage” base feel while still staying bright
Not taperwound (full‑diameter low B)
Hi‑Beams are endorsed by many well‑known bassists, including:
Sting, Geezer Butler, Adam Clayton, Ida Nielsen, Bootsy Collins, Chris Wolstenholme
DR’s site also lists Stanley Clarke, Joey Vera, Eddie Jackson, and others
Summary of Key Specs (MR5‑130)
Type: Hi‑Beam stainless‑steel bass strings
Set: 5‑string
Gauge: .045 / .065 / .085 / .105 / .130 (medium)
Core: Round core
Winding: Roundwound stainless steel
Scale: Long scale (fits up to 37 3/4")
Tone: Bright, punchy, balanced
Feel: Flexible, smooth, easy to play
Durability: Long life, consistent tone
Who MR5‑130 Is Best For
Choose MR5‑130 if you want:
A bright, lively stainless‑steel sound
A flexible feel rather than stiff tension
A strong, clear low‑B
Strings that stay bright for a long time
A set that works across many bass types (Precision, Soundgear, Warwick, etc.)
