Ernie Ball has introduced a new signature electric guitar string set developed in collaboration with blues-pop icon John Mayer. This innovative set marks a first for the brand and features a custom gauge described as “unique.”
Every guitar player eventually faces the dilemma of whether their string gauge is appropriate. Some seek guidance from influential figures, like when Billy Gibbons helped BB King by suggesting he use lighter strings, enabling King to channel his signature style on a set of 7s. Others emulate their idols, such as the Stevie Ray Vaughan fans who favor the heavier gauges reputedly used by the legendary guitarist.
However, most players navigate this journey through trial and error, searching for the ideal balance between thick strings that provide weight and thin strings that allow for easy bending.
Unexpectedly, Mayer offers a potential solution with his Silver Slinky strings, designed to change how you view your electric guitar. These strings might just inspire you to rush to the music store, even if it’s the last train home.
The Silver Slinkys—named after Mayer’s Ernie Ball Music Man signature guitar—feature a gauge range of 10.5 to 47, striking a balance between heavy and light. They also incorporate Mayer’s preferred core-to-wrap ratio, aimed at enhancing the playing experience. Although we’ll need to test them to truly appreciate the core-to-wrap aspect, the unique gauge of 10.5, 13.5, 17.5, 27, 37, and 47, along with reinforced plain strings designed for durability during bends, certainly makes them worth exploring.
Mayer expresses his enthusiasm for the strings, emphasizing their significance in his playing. “I’ve always said that I don’t play the guitar, I play the strings,” he states. “Having a feeling of fluidity is so important in my playing, and Ernie Ball strings have always given me that ability. With the creation of the Silver Slinky set, I have found an even higher level of expression, and I’m excited to share it with guitar players everywhere.”
The John Mayer Silver Slinky strings are available in several formats: a collectible three-pack tin (£44.99/$29), a six-pack (£84.99/$54.99), or individual sets (£14.99/$9.99). We might opt for an individual set first before committing to the six-pack. For further details, visit Ernie Ball.
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