What is the gauge of the Ernie Ball 1013 string?

The gauge of this specific string is .013 inches, which is considered a medium to heavy gauge for a plain steel guitar string.

Can the Ernie Ball 1013 be used on an acoustic guitar?

Yes, it is designed for use on both electric and acoustic guitars, provided the instrument's nut and bridge are slotted for a .013 gauge.

What material is used to make this string?

The string is made from specially tempered high carbon steel that has been tin-plated for durability and tone.

Is the Ernie Ball 1013 a wound or plain string?

It is a plain steel string, meaning it has a solid core without any outer wire wrapping.

How does the tin plating affect the string?

The tin plating helps protect the high carbon steel from corrosion caused by moisture and finger oils, while maintaining a clear, bright sound.

Which famous musicians use Ernie Ball strings?

Legends such as Paul McCartney, Keith Richards, Jimmy Page, and Pete Townshend are known users of Ernie Ball strings.

What is the typical price for a single 1013 string?

The typical price range for a single Ernie Ball 1013 string is approximately EUR 1.

Does this string offer high output?

Yes, the manufacturer describes it as having the loudest output and maximum volume due to its high-quality steel construction.

Is this string resistant to breaking?

The string uses super-strong tempered steel, which is designed to minimise breakage and reduce the frequency of restringing.

Can I use this string to replace a broken string in a set?

Yes, individual strings like the 1013 are ideal for replacing a single snapped string without the need to buy a full new set.

How does this compare to Ernie Ball M-Steel strings?

The 1013 is a standard tin-plated high carbon steel string, whereas M-Steel strings use a different alloy for even higher output and different magnetic properties.

Is this string suitable for a 1/8 size cello or violin?

No, this is a guitar string. For smaller orchestral instruments, you would need specific products like Larsen 1/8 Cello strings or D'Addario 1/4 Violin strings.

Gear article

Ernie Ball 1013 Plain Steel Single String

The Ernie Ball 1013 is a single .013 gauge plain steel string designed for use on both electric and acoustic guitars. Manufactured from specially tempered tin-plated high carbon steel, it is engineered for high output, durability, and tonal clarity.

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Overview

The Ernie Ball 1013 is a professional-grade individual guitar string measuring .013 inches in diameter. As a 'plain' string, it lacks a winding, making it a standard choice for the higher registers of a guitar—typically serving as a B-string in medium sets or an E-string in heavy sets. It is part of Ernie Ball's extensive range of single strings, allowing musicians to customise their gauges or replace broken strings without purchasing an entire set.

Manufacturing and Material

The 1013 is constructed using high carbon steel that has been specially tempered. This tempering process enhances the structural integrity of the metal, making it more resistant to breakage under high tension. The steel is further treated with a tin plating, which provides a protective barrier against corrosion and contributes to a smooth feel under the fingers.

Tonal Characteristics

Ernie Ball describes the 1013 as offering maximum volume and high output. The use of high carbon steel ensures that notes are delivered with clear definition and brightness. Because it is a plain steel string, it provides a direct, punchy response that is well-suited for both lead playing and rhythmic accents on both acoustic and electric platforms.

Industry Adoption

Ernie Ball strings are widely regarded as a standard in the music industry. The brand is associated with numerous high-profile musicians who have utilised their products across decades of recording and live performance. Notable users of Ernie Ball strings include Paul McCartney, Keith Richards, Jimmy Page, and Pete Townshend.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to specialised sets like the Ernie Ball 2921 M-Steel or the Tim Henson Signature Slinky 3826, the 1013 is a fundamental building block. While M-Steel strings focus on cobalt alloys for higher output, the 1013 relies on traditional tin-plated steel for a classic response. It differs from orchestral strings, such as the D'Addario Zyex or Helicore series, which are designed for bowed instruments and often feature synthetic cores or specific windings not found in guitar strings.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the gauge of the Ernie Ball 1013 string?: The gauge of this specific string is .013 inches, which is considered a medium to heavy gauge for a plain steel guitar string.
Can the Ernie Ball 1013 be used on an acoustic guitar?: Yes, it is designed for use on both electric and acoustic guitars, provided the instrument's nut and bridge are slotted for a .013 gauge.
What material is used to make this string?: The string is made from specially tempered high carbon steel that has been tin-plated for durability and tone.
Is the Ernie Ball 1013 a wound or plain string?: It is a plain steel string, meaning it has a solid core without any outer wire wrapping.
How does the tin plating affect the string?: The tin plating helps protect the high carbon steel from corrosion caused by moisture and finger oils, while maintaining a clear, bright sound.
Which famous musicians use Ernie Ball strings?: Legends such as Paul McCartney, Keith Richards, Jimmy Page, and Pete Townshend are known users of Ernie Ball strings.
What is the typical price for a single 1013 string?: The typical price range for a single Ernie Ball 1013 string is approximately EUR 1.
Does this string offer high output?: Yes, the manufacturer describes it as having the loudest output and maximum volume due to its high-quality steel construction.
Is this string resistant to breaking?: The string uses super-strong tempered steel, which is designed to minimise breakage and reduce the frequency of restringing.
Can I use this string to replace a broken string in a set?: Yes, individual strings like the 1013 are ideal for replacing a single snapped string without the need to buy a full new set.
How does this compare to Ernie Ball M-Steel strings?: The 1013 is a standard tin-plated high carbon steel string, whereas M-Steel strings use a different alloy for even higher output and different magnetic properties.
Is this string suitable for a 1/8 size cello or violin?: No, this is a guitar string. For smaller orchestral instruments, you would need specific products like Larsen 1/8 Cello strings or D'Addario 1/4 Violin strings.