What is the gauge of the Elixir 19002 set?

The Elixir 19002 set is a Super Light gauge, featuring string diameters of .009, .011, .016, .024, .032, and .042 inches.

How does OPTIWEB differ from other Elixir coatings?

OPTIWEB is Elixir's thinnest coating, designed to provide the feel and crisp tone of an uncoated string, whereas NANOWEB is smooth and POLYWEB is warmer and slicker.

Are these strings suitable for beginners?

Yes, the super light 9-42 gauge provides a comfortably easy playing performance, making them an excellent choice for new players building finger strength.

Do OPTIWEB strings sound duller than uncoated strings?

No, they are specifically designed to offer a crisp tone that mimics the sound of an uncoated string while providing long-lasting protection against corrosion.

How long do these strings typically last?

While individual results vary based on playing frequency, Elixir's coating technology is designed to provide a significantly longer tone life compared to standard uncoated strings.

Can I use these strings for heavy string bending?

Yes, the 9-42 super light gauge is ideal for players who favour string bending due to the lower tension compared to heavier sets.

What is the typical price for a set of Elixir 19002 strings?

In the UK market, these strings typically retail for approximately £16.00 per set.

What instrument are these strings designed for?

These strings are specifically designed for electric guitars and are not suitable for acoustic or orchestral instruments.

Are all the strings in the set coated?

Elixir applies their coating technology to the wound strings, and their plain steel strings typically feature an anti-rust plating to ensure the entire set lasts longer.

Do these strings feel slippery?

No, the OPTIWEB coating is engineered to have a natural, non-slippery feel that is very close to the texture of traditional uncoated metal.

How do these compare to Ernie Ball Slinky strings?

While Ernie Ball Slinkys (like the 2921 or 3826 sets) are popular for their tone, Elixir 19002 strings include a protective coating to prevent corrosion, which the standard Slinky series lacks.

Is the 9-42 gauge good for drop tuning?

Generally, 9-42 is intended for standard E-flat or E-standard tuning. For lower drop tunings, a heavier gauge might be preferred to maintain string tension.

Gear article

Elixir 19002 OPTIWEB Coated Electric Guitar Strings (9-42)

The Elixir 19002 OPTIWEB set is a super light gauge (9-42) electric guitar string kit featuring a proprietary thin coating technology. It is designed to bridge the gap between long-lasting coated durability and the crisp tone and natural feel of traditional uncoated strings.

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Overview

The Elixir 19002 OPTIWEB set represents a specific advancement in string technology, aimed at guitarists who require the longevity of a coated string but prefer the tactile response of bare metal. These strings are manufactured in a Super Light gauge, measuring .009 to .042 inches, which facilitates easier fretting and string bending compared to heavier sets.

OPTIWEB Coating Technology

Elixir's OPTIWEB technology is the brand's most discrete coating. Unlike thicker coatings that can dampen vibration or feel noticeably slippery, OPTIWEB is designed to be virtually imperceptible to the touch. This innovation protects the string from skin oils, sweat, and environmental corrosion, significantly extending the life of the string's tonal clarity while maintaining a 'crisp' high-end response.

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Performance and Playability

Because the 19002 set uses a 9-42 gauge, it offers a comfortably easy playing performance. This makes it particularly suitable for two types of players:

New Players: Those building finger strength who need lower tension to avoid fatigue.
Technical Players: Lead guitarists who favour expressive techniques such as wide vibrato and aggressive string bending.

The natural feel of the coating ensures that the player's fingers do not experience the 'slick' sensation often associated with other coated variants, allowing for a more traditional grip on the strings.

Tone and Character

The primary sonic characteristic of the OPTIWEB series is its brightness. While many coated strings are known for a warmer or more 'played-in' sound right out of the box, the 19002 set is engineered to sound like a fresh set of uncoated strings. It retains a crisp, metallic bite that is essential for various genres ranging from clean pop to high-gain rock, preserving the harmonic content that often degrades quickly on standard nickel-plated steel strings.

Comparison and Market Context

Within the Elixir range, the OPTIWEB coating sits alongside the POLYWEB (warm/slick) and NANOWEB (smooth/bright) options, offering the most 'natural' feel of the three. Compared to competitors like the Ernie Ball 2921 Regular Slinky M-Steel or the 3826 Tim Henson Signature sets, the Elixir 19002 focuses specifically on life-extension through chemical barriers. While brands like D'Addario offer different core technologies (such as those found in their Helicore or Zyex lines for orchestral instruments), Elixir's focus remains on the specific longevity of the outer wrap for electric guitarists.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the gauge of the Elixir 19002 set?: The Elixir 19002 set is a Super Light gauge, featuring string diameters of .009, .011, .016, .024, .032, and .042 inches.
How does OPTIWEB differ from other Elixir coatings?: OPTIWEB is Elixir's thinnest coating, designed to provide the feel and crisp tone of an uncoated string, whereas NANOWEB is smooth and POLYWEB is warmer and slicker.
Are these strings suitable for beginners?: Yes, the super light 9-42 gauge provides a comfortably easy playing performance, making them an excellent choice for new players building finger strength.
Do OPTIWEB strings sound duller than uncoated strings?: No, they are specifically designed to offer a crisp tone that mimics the sound of an uncoated string while providing long-lasting protection against corrosion.
How long do these strings typically last?: While individual results vary based on playing frequency, Elixir's coating technology is designed to provide a significantly longer tone life compared to standard uncoated strings.
Can I use these strings for heavy string bending?: Yes, the 9-42 super light gauge is ideal for players who favour string bending due to the lower tension compared to heavier sets.
What is the typical price for a set of Elixir 19002 strings?: In the UK market, these strings typically retail for approximately £16.00 per set.
What instrument are these strings designed for?: These strings are specifically designed for electric guitars and are not suitable for acoustic or orchestral instruments.
Are all the strings in the set coated?: Elixir applies their coating technology to the wound strings, and their plain steel strings typically feature an anti-rust plating to ensure the entire set lasts longer.
Do these strings feel slippery?: No, the OPTIWEB coating is engineered to have a natural, non-slippery feel that is very close to the texture of traditional uncoated metal.
How do these compare to Ernie Ball Slinky strings?: While Ernie Ball Slinkys (like the 2921 or 3826 sets) are popular for their tone, Elixir 19002 strings include a protective coating to prevent corrosion, which the standard Slinky series lacks.
Is the 9-42 gauge good for drop tuning?: Generally, 9-42 is intended for standard E-flat or E-standard tuning. For lower drop tunings, a heavier gauge might be preferred to maintain string tension.