Ernie Ball 2225

I have been using these gauge 8 strings for the past twenty years, and the packet that Thomann sent me are as good as any.

I recommend the lighter gauge to those that want more tonal control over their bends. Being very light, these strings allow for easy bends that might be less comfortable on thicker strings. I prefer a lighter touch, and these strings allow me to perform microtonal bends with high accuracy.

The thin nature of the bass strings also provide a much tighter low end, making crunchier sounds feel less muddy, and allow the guitar to ring out more, due to the lower tension.

Tired of killing your hands trying to reach those higher bends?
Feel like there's something lacking in your bottom end?

BUY THESE STRINGS!

Best-kept secret of the 60's and '70s guitar gods. Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page, Chuck Berry... all these guys used 8's! Eddie Van Halen used 9's but tuned down a half step, the equivalent of 8's in standard tuning).

Other light gauge string aficionados: Zappa, Toni Iommi, Brian May, B.B. King, Frampton, Malmsteen, Vai, Satriani, Billy Gibbons... the list goes on.

Seriously, buy these strings.

These strings feature the lighter gauge in Ernie Ball's string catalogue, but show the same qualities of the heavier ones. Despite being really thin (the high E is only 008) they are loud enough to any kind of music, and the gauge is very well balanced from the first to the sixt string, allowing natural playing and good feel. Brilliant sounding, the quality of materials they're made of allows easy and almost extreme bending with no risk of break even with the thinner string: I think I broke just a couple in years, and I guess it was up to a sharp edged hole in the tuning key. Even after a long time, they never sound "muddy", they just sound "warmer". If you only care cleaning them with a cotton rag after every session (like any other set of strings) they will last very very long. Great value for the price.

Ernie Ball 2225 strings are part of the popular Slinky series, which is known for its quality, reliability and wide range of thicknesses. Here are a few key features of this model:

String Thickness: Ernie Ball 2225 strings range in thickness from 009 to 046 inches (Extra Slinky), making them a great choice for players who prefer lighter resistance and playability. This makes it easier to grip the strings and play at high speeds, allowing for greater maneuverability on the guitar's fingerboard.

Bright and rich sound: Ernie Ball Slinky strings are known for their bright and rich sound, which is perfect for a wide range of musical styles, from rock to pop. They have excellent articulation and sound projection, making them a popular choice among many guitarists.

Durability and tuning stability: Ernie Ball strings are made of high quality materials, which ensures their durability and tuning stability. They can withstand heavy use and still sound great even after long periods of use.

Versatility: These strings are suitable for many different types of guitars, including electric guitars with a standard fretboard. They can also be used for a variety of playing styles, from accompaniment to solo performance.

I've always liked Ernie Ball strings ... I've tried other brands over the years but always find myself coming back to these.

I used a made up set for the past twenty year (gauges 009, 011, 014, 024, 032, 038) when I noticed a set of Extra Slinkies at a local store and thought that I'd give them a try and found them to be as nice to use ... oddly enough the 008 high E string felt a bit odd initially, but after about an hours use I got used to it and now use them on all of my guitars ... i.e. 21 and 22 fret Strats and an Ibanez Jem.

The worries I read about light gauge strings are unfounded in my view ... they are nice to use, string bending is far easier and on an electric guitar the gauge makes little difference. I have found nothing wrong at all with these at all ... for me they are the perfect fit.

Give them a try ...

Phil, England.