Guides
The reference layer of the site. Tension math, install how-tos, gauge-by-tuning lookups, and the long-tail questions that don't fit inside an individual string review.
Pillar references
All guides
- 7-string guitar string gauge guide: the tension math for B standard, Drop A, and extended lows
The gauge-and-tension targets for every common 7-string tuning on 25.5", 26.5", and 27" scale guitars. Plus the sets that actually ship in 7-string form.
- 8-string guitar string gauge guide: F# standard, Drop E, and the lowest playable extended-range tunings
Tension targets and string-gauge picks for 8-string guitar in F# standard, Drop E, and the rare-but-shipping E standard / Drop D 8-string tunings. Plus the actual sets that ship in 8-string form.
- Ernie Ball Cobalt Slinky gauges explained: the full 8-set lineup, picked by tuning
All eight Ernie Ball Cobalt Slinky gauges compared: from Extra Slinky .008–.038 to Not Even Slinky .012–.056. Pick by tuning first, scale length second, hand strength third.
- Drop C string gauge and tension chart: pick the right set for 25.5", Gibson, and baritone scales
The gauge-and-tension targets for Drop C tuning across Fender 25.5", Gibson 24.75", and baritone 27" scale lengths, plus the three Ernie Ball sets that actually work and the two that don't.
- Switching to heavier electric guitar strings: the truss-rod-aware install guide
Going from a .010 set to .011s, .012s, or a Drop C rig? Here's the full install and setup walk-through, truss rod adjustment, nut slot check, bridge height, and intonation, so the guitar plays right from the first note.
- Top 10 7-string guitar players: who plays 7-string and what strings they use
The most influential 7-string players in metal and prog, from Korn's 7-string pioneers through Dream Theater to modern djent. Documented strings, gauges, tunings, and signature rigs.
- Top 10 8-string guitar players: who plays 8-string and what strings they use
The most influential 8-string players in metal, djent, and prog, Tosin Abasi, Fredrik Thordendal, Stephen Carpenter, and the rest. Documented strings, gauges, tunings, and signature rigs.
- Who plays Ernie Ball Cobalt Slinky strings: the 30 documented pro users
The full ranked list of guitarists and bassists with documented Ernie Ball Cobalt Slinky use, 20 confirmed with primary-source citations plus 10 provisional Ernie Ball artists where Cobalt use is inferred.