Detail 01
80/20 bronze
80% copper, 20% zinc. Brighter and more scooped than phosphor bronze, but the top end fades faster as they oxidize.
Product detailSKU #1273887998341
Ernie Ball2004 Earthwood 80/20 Bronze Light Acoustic Guitar Strings - (11-52)
1/2
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Light-gauge 80/20 bronze acoustic strings, 11-52. For players who want a bright, forward sound and an easy-bending feel.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Flatpicking or strumming where you want treble cut
- Players with hand fatigue on medium gauges
- Recording where a brighter top end sits well in a mix
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Players wanting warmth and long-lasting tone from phosphor bronze
- Heavy strummers who need more volume and tension
- Anyone who dislikes retuning as the strings settle in
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Light gauge (11-52)
Lower tension than mediums. Easier on the fingers and easier to bend, with somewhat less volume and low-end push.
Detail 03
Wound strings on a steel core
For steel-string acoustics only. Will not work on a classical or nylon-string guitar.
Detail 04
52 low E
Fairly substantial bass string for a light set. Keeps the low end defined rather than thin.
Detail 05
Uncoated
Full brightness and natural grip out of the box, but sweat and skin oils dull them faster than a coated string.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Coming from mediums, expect to check the truss rod and intonation
- 02New strings stretch — plan on retuning several times the first day
- 03Single set only; no picks, winder, or cutters included
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
0180/20 or phosphor bronze — which should I get?
80/20 is brighter and more scooped, good for cutting through and for recording. Phosphor bronze is warmer with more midrange and holds its tone longer. Pick by the sound you want.
02Are light gauge strings too light for strumming?
No, but you get less volume and low-end than mediums. If you strum hard and want maximum output, mediums push more air. Lights are the easier-playing tradeoff.
03Can I use these on my classical guitar?
No. These are steel-core strings for steel-string acoustics. Putting them on a nylon-string classical can damage the top and neck, which aren't built for that tension.
04How fast do 80/20 strings lose their brightness?
Faster than phosphor bronze. The zinc content that makes them bright also oxidizes quicker. Frequent players often notice the top end dulling within a couple of weeks.
