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

String gauge and scale length, the complete reference
Which gauges fit which tunings at Gibson, Fender, and baritone scale lengths. Tension math, break-point warnings, and when to step up a gauge.

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.