Electric Guitar Strings

Electric guitar strings are typically made of nickel, stainless steel, or cobalt-wrapped steel, influencing tone, feel, and longevity. Early electric guitars used plain steel strings, but modern advancements provide a variety of coatings, gauges, and materials to suit different styles. Notable manufacturers include Ernie Ball (Slinky series), D’Addario (XL and NYXL series), Elixir (Nanoweb and Optiweb-coated strings), and DR Strings (Veritas and Hi-Beam). Lighter gauges (.009–.042) are favored for lead playing and bending, while heavier sets (.011–.056) provide more sustain and tuning stability, especially for drop tunings. Used across rock, metal, blues, and jazz, string choice affects playability, tone, and longevity.