This review dives deep into the Dean Markley Blue Steel Cryogenic strings, exploring their performance and overall playing experience. The author details their initial impressions, highlighting the unusually smooth feel compared to other strings they've used. From setup and signal chain details to a thorough examination of the clean and overdriven tones, no aspect is overlooked. The impact of the strings on sustain, clarity, and responsiveness is meticulously assessed, providing a comprehensive understanding of their sonic capabilities. Expect a detailed analysis of how these strings perform across a range of playing styles and gain settings, offering valuable insights for guitarists seeking a tonal upgrade.The review thoroughly evaluates the strings' performance with a focus on their unique qualities. The author's observations on the unexpectedly high output level, coupled with the consistent smoothness and powerful tone throughout different gain stages, offer a nuanced perspective. Detailed descriptions of the gear used, including the guitar, amplifier, and effects pedals, provide context and credibility to the findings. Ultimately, this review serves as a robust and informative guide for guitarists considering investing in Dean Markley Blue Steel Cryogenic strings, highlighting both their strengths and any potential considerations.
Pros And Cons
- Smooth feel and tone
- Higher output level
Read more: Top 5 Elixir Guitar Strings: A Buyer's Guide
Initial Impressions and Setup
Right off the bat, these Dean Markley Blue Steel Cryogenic strings felt different. The packaging is simple but effective. The strings themselves felt unusually smooth, a stark contrast to any other strings I’ve used before. I strung them up on my Atilla guitar—I didn't even trim the ends yet—and was excited to see what they’d sound like.
The setup was straightforward; no major issues or snags during the process. I plugged into my Fender Hot Rod Deluxe, which was double miked for optimal sound quality during recording.
My signal chain included the Toof audio and Universal Audio preamps going into Logic X. I was using my all-time favorite pedal, the Elements by Dr. Scientist, for effects. This pedal has been a staple for some time now and has always delivered.
Clean Tone Test
The clean tone was immediately impressive. The strings produced a smooth and rich sound, devoid of harshness or unwanted buzzing—even with the strings untrimmed. The clarity and detail were exceptional, making individual notes ring out beautifully. This is something that's very important for clean sounds.
The sustain was also very noticeable. Notes resonated for a surprisingly long time, even on the higher frets. The overall impression was one of effortless playability and a warm, inviting sound. It’s a tone perfect for both clean and slightly overdriven playing.
Overdriven Tone Test with Effects
Adding the Dr. Scientist Elements pedal introduced a wide array of tonal possibilities. The strings handled the overdrive exceptionally well, retaining clarity even at higher gain levels. The responsiveness to the guitar's volume knob and picking dynamics was excellent, allowing for nuanced expression.
The combination of the strings and the pedal created a powerful and dynamic sound, perfect for a variety of genres. I found that the tone retained its warmth and smoothness even with the added gain. This combination makes them incredibly versatile.
Unexpected Volume and Conclusion
Interestingly, I noticed a higher output level than expected. I had to turn down the amp to prevent it from becoming too loud, despite my usual settings. This might be unique to these strings or an anomaly from my recording process. However, the higher output doesn't detract from the experience.
Overall, the Dean Markley Blue Steel Cryogenic strings are exceptionally impressive. The smooth feel, the warm yet powerful tones across various gain settings, and their sustain—all contribute to a truly exceptional playing experience. It's likely the strings I'll use for all my playing from now on. These strings are a great investment for any guitarist seeking a significant upgrade in quality and sound.
The higher output level was a pleasant surprise, though it required adjustment. The combination of smooth feel and robust sound makes these strings worth considering for guitarists seeking high-quality strings with a rich tone.