This review dives deep into the Ernie Ball Slinky .007 strings, specifically designed for seven-string guitars. The author details their experience switching from a standard 9-42 gauge to the significantly thinner .036 gauge low B string, focusing on the impact this drastic change had on their metal playing. Expect an honest assessment of the pros and cons, exploring the trade-offs between playability, tone, and durability. The review covers installation, feel, sound, and overall suitability for various playing styles, offering valuable insights for guitarists considering a similar upgrade or downgrade in string gauge.From effortless bending and vibrato to the challenges of maintaining control and avoiding breakage, this review provides a balanced perspective. The author meticulously compares the .007s to their usual heavier gauge strings, highlighting the significant tonal differences and the adjustments required in playing technique. Ultimately, the review aims to help you decide if the Ernie Ball .007 strings are the right choice for your specific needs and playing style within the context of metal music.
Pros And Cons
- Easy bending
- Very thin strings, prone to creasing if bent
- Requires lighter touch than thicker strings
- Brittle tone compared to thicker sets
Read more: Top 5 Elixir Guitar Strings: A Buyer's Guide
Initial Impressions and Setup
I recently purchased a set of Ernie Ball Slinky .007 strings, specifically designed for seven-string guitars. The set features a .036 gauge on the low B string, a significant departure from my usual gauge. My initial concern was whether these incredibly thin strings would hold up under the demands of metal playing, particularly chugging.
Before installing the new strings, I took a moment to appreciate the sound of my guitar's current setup, a 9-42 set tuned to standard E with drop D tuning. This provided a valuable baseline for comparison.
The .007 strings looked incredibly thin; I knew I'd need to be gentle during installation to avoid accidentally creasing them. The thinness immediately raised questions about durability and playability.
Playability and Sound Test
After carefully installing the .007 strings, I immediately noticed how effortlessly they bent. It required significantly less effort than my usual strings. This is a double-edged sword; while great for legato and vibrato, it also means greater care is needed to avoid accidental bends or breakage.
The sound was noticeably different than my previous 9-42 set. It had a brighter and more brittle tone, which is a characteristic of thinner strings. The thinner strings require a lighter touch; heavy picking could easily lead to sharp notes.
I tested various techniques, including chugging and legato runs, paying close attention to how much pressure I applied. A thinner pick helped mitigate some of the issues related to accidental sharp notes.
Comparison and Conclusion
Comparing the .007s to my usual 9-42 set, the difference in feel and tone is considerable. The .007s are undeniably easier for bending and legato playing, making it perfect for genres that favor these techniques. However, they lack the fullness and punchier sound of thicker strings.
The thinness of the strings requires a much lighter touch. It takes some getting used to, especially if you're accustomed to heavier string gauges. Accidental sharp notes are a real concern, requiring a lighter hand and possibly a thinner pick.
Ultimately, whether or not these strings are right for you depends on your playing style and preferences. If you prioritize effortless bending and vibrato, and you're comfortable with a brighter, more brittle tone and increased risk of string breakage, the Ernie Ball .007 strings might be a good choice. Otherwise, sticking to a heavier gauge might be more suitable.