Detail 01
11-48 gauge
Noticeably stiffer than a standard 10-46 set. More tension, harder bends, more push behind the pick.
Product detailSKU #1273887998510
Ernie Ball2220 Power Slinky Nickel Electric Guitar Strings - (11-48)
1/2
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Ernie Ball's heaviest common nickel-wound electric set at 11-48. For players who tune down, dig in hard, or want stiffer feel under the fingers.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Drop tunings and down-tuned rhythm playing that needs tension
- Heavy-handed strummers who choke out lighter gauges
- Slide players wanting a stiffer string above the fretboard
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Fast lead players who bend a lot at standard pitch
- Beginners still building finger and hand strength
- Guitars set up for 9s or 10s without a tech visit
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
Nickel plated steel wrap
The common electric wrap. Warmer and less abrasive on frets than pure stainless, magnetic enough for any pickup.
Detail 03
Wound third string
As with all standard electric sets in this gauge, the G is plain, keeping bends on that string manageable.
Detail 04
Round wound construction
Textured surface gives brightness and pick attack, plus the usual finger squeak when sliding positions.
Detail 05
48 low E
Thicker bass string holds pitch better in drop D and lower, with less flop on palm mutes.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Moving up from 10s usually needs a truss rod tweak and intonation reset
- 02Heavier gauge can require nut slot filing on some guitars
- 03One set of six strings, no picks or winder included
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Will 11s fit my guitar without changes?
Often not directly. Going up in gauge adds neck tension, so the truss rod and intonation usually need adjusting. Nut slots may also be too narrow.
02Are these good for drop tuning?
Yes. The 48 low E keeps tension usable in drop D and half-step-down tunings where lighter sets go slack.
03Is the G string wound or plain?
Plain. This is a standard electric set, so the top three strings are unwound and the bottom three are nickel wound.
04How do these compare to 10-46?
Stiffer across the board. Bends take more hand strength, chords ring with more push, and the low end stays tighter under heavy picking.
Reference
Full specifications
The complete catalog record, organized around the decisions musicians make when comparing gear.
1 detailsBody & build
- Color
- (11-48)
