Detail 01
9-42 gauge
Light set. Less tension means easier bends and vibrato, but more fret buzz if you dig in hard.
Product detailSKU #1273887998614
Ernie Ball2223 Super Slinky Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings - (9-42)
Sale
1/2
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Ernie Ball's 9-42 nickel wound electric set. The standard light gauge for players who bend often and want low fretting effort.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Blues and rock players who bend a full step regularly
- Beginners whose fingers get sore on heavier gauges
- Standard E tuning on a 25.5-inch scale electric
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Drop tunings below D, where 9s go slack and rattle
- Acoustic and classical guitars
- Players chasing thick rhythm tone from heavier strings
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 wound
Nickel-plated steel wrap. Warmer and smoother than pure stainless, with less fret wear.
Detail 03
Electric guitar strings
Steel core is magnetic, so pickups read them. Won't work as a swap for acoustic bronze strings.
Detail 04
Six-string set
One full set, one restring. Not a bulk pack, so stock up if you change strings often.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Switching from 10s to 9s changes tension; the truss rod and intonation may need adjusting
- 02One set only, and no bonus single strings included
- 03Nickel wound strings dull with sweat; wipe them down after playing
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Is 9-42 good for a beginner?
Yes. Lighter tension means less finger pressure to fret and easier bends while you build calluses.
02Can I use these on an acoustic?
No. These are electric strings. Acoustics need bronze-wound sets to sound right unamplified.
03Do I need a setup after switching to these?
If you're coming from heavier strings, likely yes. Lower tension shifts neck relief and intonation.
04Will these handle drop D?
Drop D is workable but the low string gets floppy. For anything lower, go heavier.
Reference
Full specifications
The complete catalog record, organized around the decisions musicians make when comparing gear.
1 detailsBody & build
- Color
- (9-42)
