What is the gauge of the Ernie Ball 1446?

The string has a gauge of .046 inches, which is typically used for the low-E string in acoustic guitar setups.

What materials are used in the wrap wire?

The wrap is made of 80/20 bronze, which consists of 80 percent copper and 20 percent zinc.

What is the core shape of the Ernie Ball 1446?

The string features a hexagonal brass-plated steel core for improved wrap grip and tuning stability.

How does the 80/20 bronze alloy affect the sound?

The 80/20 bronze alloy provides a bright, articulate tone with a warm edge, offering more clarity than darker alloys.

Is this string suitable for drop tunings?

Yes, the .046 thickness provides a strong bass response and stable tension that suits drop-tuned acoustic playing.

Can I use this on an electric guitar?

While it can physically fit, it is specifically designed for acoustic resonance; electric players usually prefer nickel-plated sets like the Ernie Ball Slinky series.

What is the typical price for a single 1446 string?

The typical price for this single replacement string is approximately £2.00.

Why would I buy a single string instead of a full set?

Single strings are ideal for replacing a broken string, creating a custom gauge set, or stocking a spares kit for emergencies.

How does this string handle heavy strumming?

The gauge and hex-core construction are designed to withstand heavy strumming while maintaining a consistent feel and articulate response.

Does the brass plating on the core serve a purpose?

The brass plating helps protect the steel core and can contribute to the overall resonance and durability of the string.

Is this string expressive for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, its 'thick expressive' nature allows for rich acoustic textures and nuanced bass notes even in softer playing styles.

How does this compare to the Ernie Ball Tim Henson Signature strings?

The 1446 is a single acoustic 80/20 bronze string, whereas the Tim Henson 3826 set is a full nickel-wound set designed for electric guitars.

Gear article

Ernie Ball 1446 Earthwood 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Single String 46

The Ernie Ball 1446 Earthwood is a .046" gauge replacement single string for acoustic guitars, featuring an 80/20 bronze alloy wrap. It is designed to provide a thick, expressive low end with high clarity, making it suitable for drop tunings and heavy strumming styles.

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Overview

The Ernie Ball 1446 Earthwood 80/20 Bronze Single String is a specialised component designed for acoustic guitarists who require specific tension or replacement for their low-end strings. Measuring .046 inches in diameter, it belongs to the Earthwood series, which is one of the most established lines in the Ernie Ball acoustic catalogue. The string is constructed using a traditional 80/20 bronze wrap wire, providing a balance between bright projection and warm resonance.

Construction and Materials

The technical foundation of the 1446 model is a hexagonal brass-plated steel core. This hex-core design is engineered to ensure the outer wrap wire grips the core tightly, promoting tuning stability and a consistent feel across the length of the string. The wrap itself consists of 80 percent copper and 20 percent zinc. This specific metallurgical composition is chosen for its ability to deliver a bright, articulate tone that remains resonant over time, distinguishing it from darker alloys like phosphor bronze.

Sound Character and Performance

This string is characterised by its articulate bass response and bright tonal edge. The .046 gauge provides sufficient thickness for rich acoustic textures and heavy strumming, yet remains flexible enough for expressive playing. Its high copper content produces a crisp initial attack, while the zinc components contribute to the depth and warmth of the low frequencies. It is particularly effective for players who find standard lighter gauges too thin for drop tunings or aggressive rhythmic work.

Applications

The Ernie Ball 1446 is primarily used as a replacement for the sixth string in a standard light or medium-light acoustic set. However, its properties make it ideal for:

Custom String Sets: Players who prefer tailored tension across the fretboard.
Drop Tunings: The .046 gauge maintains better tension than lighter strings when tuned below E.
Spares Kits: A practical addition for touring musicians who need a reliable single replacement for broken low-E strings.
Heavy Strumming: Providing the physical resistance required for players with a forceful right-hand technique.

Comparison and Market Context

Within the Ernie Ball ecosystem, the Earthwood 80/20 Bronze offers a brighter profile compared to the Earthwood Phosphor Bronze variants. In the wider market of single strings, it occupies a similar utility role to individual D'Addario or Dunlop strings, though it is specifically voiced for the 'classic' acoustic brightness associated with 80/20 alloys. While Ernie Ball also produces multi-string sets like the 2921 Regular Slinky M-Steel or the 3826 Tim Henson Signature Slinky, those are electric-focused; the 1446 remains a dedicated acoustic component designed for wood-bodied resonance.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the gauge of the Ernie Ball 1446?: The string has a gauge of .046 inches, which is typically used for the low-E string in acoustic guitar setups.
What materials are used in the wrap wire?: The wrap is made of 80/20 bronze, which consists of 80 percent copper and 20 percent zinc.
What is the core shape of the Ernie Ball 1446?: The string features a hexagonal brass-plated steel core for improved wrap grip and tuning stability.
How does the 80/20 bronze alloy affect the sound?: The 80/20 bronze alloy provides a bright, articulate tone with a warm edge, offering more clarity than darker alloys.
Is this string suitable for drop tunings?: Yes, the .046 thickness provides a strong bass response and stable tension that suits drop-tuned acoustic playing.
Can I use this on an electric guitar?: While it can physically fit, it is specifically designed for acoustic resonance; electric players usually prefer nickel-plated sets like the Ernie Ball Slinky series.
What is the typical price for a single 1446 string?: The typical price for this single replacement string is approximately £2.00.
Why would I buy a single string instead of a full set?: Single strings are ideal for replacing a broken string, creating a custom gauge set, or stocking a spares kit for emergencies.
How does this string handle heavy strumming?: The gauge and hex-core construction are designed to withstand heavy strumming while maintaining a consistent feel and articulate response.
Does the brass plating on the core serve a purpose?: The brass plating helps protect the steel core and can contribute to the overall resonance and durability of the string.
Is this string expressive for fingerstyle playing?: Yes, its 'thick expressive' nature allows for rich acoustic textures and nuanced bass notes even in softer playing styles.
How does this compare to the Ernie Ball Tim Henson Signature strings?: The 1446 is a single acoustic 80/20 bronze string, whereas the Tim Henson 3826 set is a full nickel-wound set designed for electric guitars.