What is the gauge range for the Ernie Ball 2013 Earthwood 12-string set?

The Custom Light set features gauges ranging from .010 on the thinnest strings to .048 on the thickest bass string. This provides a balance between playability and full-bodied acoustic resonance.

What are the benefits of 80/20 Bronze alloy?

The 80/20 Bronze alloy, made of 80% copper and 20% zinc, is known for providing a very bright and crisp tone. It is often preferred for 12-string guitars to enhance the shimmer and chime of the doubled strings.

Are these strings treated for longevity like the Paradigm series?

No, the standard Earthwood 80/20 Bronze strings do not feature the Everlast treatment or plasma-enhanced wrap wire found in the Paradigm series. They are designed as a traditional, non-coated string option.

Is the core of these strings round or hexagonal?

These strings utilize a tin-plated high-carbon steel hex core. The hexagonal shape helps the wrap wire grip the core securely, improving tuning stability and durability.

Can these strings be used on a 6-string guitar?

While you could technically use six of the strings, this is a dedicated 12-string set with octave and unison pairs. For a 6-string guitar, it is more economical and functional to purchase a standard 6-string Earthwood set.

How does the 'Custom Light' tension affect a 12-string guitar?

12-string guitars have very high neck tension; 'Custom Light' gauges reduce this physical stress compared to medium sets. This makes the guitar easier to play and can help prevent bridge lifting or neck bowing.

What is the typical price for this string set?

In the UK market, these strings typically retail for approximately £15.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.

Do these strings sound different from Phosphor Bronze?

Yes, 80/20 Bronze strings are generally brighter and more 'brilliant' than Phosphor Bronze. Phosphor Bronze tends to be warmer and has a longer tonal life, whereas 80/20 is chosen for its initial sparkle.

Are the strings in this set loop-end or ball-end?

These are ball-end strings, which is the standard configuration for most modern acoustic guitars. They are compatible with bridge pins found on the majority of 12-string acoustic models.

Where are Ernie Ball Earthwood strings manufactured?

Ernie Ball strings are manufactured in the United States, specifically in Coachella, California. They are produced using high-quality components to ensure consistent performance.

Are these strings suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the Custom Light gauge is popular among fingerstyle players because the lower tension allows for easier fretting and more expressive note bending. The bright tone also provides excellent note separation.

Why should I choose Earthwood over Ernie Ball M-Steel strings?

Earthwood strings are designed specifically for acoustic guitars using bronze alloys. M-Steel strings are high-output electric guitar strings and would not provide the correct acoustic resonance or tension for an acoustic instrument.

Gear article

Ernie Ball Earthwood 80/20 Bronze 12-String Custom Light

The Ernie Ball 2013 Earthwood 80/20 Bronze Custom Light is a dedicated string set designed for 12-string acoustic guitars. Part of the long-standing Earthwood series, these strings utilise an alloy of 80% copper and 20% zinc to deliver a bright, expressive tone suitable for various musical genres.

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Overview

The Ernie Ball 2013 Earthwood set is engineered specifically for the unique tension and tonal requirements of 12-string acoustic guitars. The 'Custom Light' designation refers to the specific selection of gauges, ranging from a .010 high E to a .048 low E. By utilizing a lighter tension than medium sets, these strings provide increased playability while reducing the significant physical stress that 12-string instruments exert on the neck and bridge.

Composition and Construction

These strings feature a hexagonal steel core wire, a design choice intended to provide more 'bite' and prevent the wrap wire from slipping. The wrap wire is composed of 80/20 bronze, an alloy consisting of 80% copper and 20% zinc. This specific ratio is favoured for acoustic instruments because it produces a crisp, clear sound upon installation. Unlike the Ernie Ball Paradigm series, which uses plasma-enhanced wrap wires and Everlast treatment for break resistance, the standard Earthwood series focuses on traditional materials and authentic acoustic resonance.

Tonal Character

The primary characteristic of the Earthwood 80/20 Bronze series is its brightness. New sets provide a shimmering, metallic top-end that complements the natural chorusing effect of a 12-string guitar. Over time, the 80/20 alloy mellows into a more balanced, warm tone. The Custom Light gauges ensure that the lower strings do not become overly muddy, maintaining clarity across all twelve strings.

Suitability

This set is particularly suited for players who find standard 12-string sets too difficult to press down or those playing vintage instruments that require lower tension for structural safety. The bright tone makes them a popular choice for folk, pop, and rock recording sessions where the guitar needs to cut through a dense mix without excessive low-end boom.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to Phosphor Bronze strings, the Earthwood 80/20s are generally brighter out of the box but may lose their 'new string' zing faster as the alloy oxidises. Within the Ernie Ball range, players seeking extreme durability might look toward Paradigm Phosphor Bronze sets, which feature ultra-high-strength steel and Everlast treatment. However, the 2013 Earthwood set remains a cost-effective standard for those who prefer the classic 80/20 feel and response. Other market alternatives include D'Addario's various violin and viola strings or specialized guitar sets like the Tim Henson Signature Slinkys, though these cater to entirely different instrument types and playing styles.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the gauge range for the Ernie Ball 2013 Earthwood 12-string set?: The Custom Light set features gauges ranging from .010 on the thinnest strings to .048 on the thickest bass string. This provides a balance between playability and full-bodied acoustic resonance.
What are the benefits of 80/20 Bronze alloy?: The 80/20 Bronze alloy, made of 80% copper and 20% zinc, is known for providing a very bright and crisp tone. It is often preferred for 12-string guitars to enhance the shimmer and chime of the doubled strings.
Are these strings treated for longevity like the Paradigm series?: No, the standard Earthwood 80/20 Bronze strings do not feature the Everlast treatment or plasma-enhanced wrap wire found in the Paradigm series. They are designed as a traditional, non-coated string option.
Is the core of these strings round or hexagonal?: These strings utilize a tin-plated high-carbon steel hex core. The hexagonal shape helps the wrap wire grip the core securely, improving tuning stability and durability.
Can these strings be used on a 6-string guitar?: While you could technically use six of the strings, this is a dedicated 12-string set with octave and unison pairs. For a 6-string guitar, it is more economical and functional to purchase a standard 6-string Earthwood set.
How does the 'Custom Light' tension affect a 12-string guitar?: 12-string guitars have very high neck tension; 'Custom Light' gauges reduce this physical stress compared to medium sets. This makes the guitar easier to play and can help prevent bridge lifting or neck bowing.
What is the typical price for this string set?: In the UK market, these strings typically retail for approximately £15.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
Do these strings sound different from Phosphor Bronze?: Yes, 80/20 Bronze strings are generally brighter and more 'brilliant' than Phosphor Bronze. Phosphor Bronze tends to be warmer and has a longer tonal life, whereas 80/20 is chosen for its initial sparkle.
Are the strings in this set loop-end or ball-end?: These are ball-end strings, which is the standard configuration for most modern acoustic guitars. They are compatible with bridge pins found on the majority of 12-string acoustic models.
Where are Ernie Ball Earthwood strings manufactured?: Ernie Ball strings are manufactured in the United States, specifically in Coachella, California. They are produced using high-quality components to ensure consistent performance.
Are these strings suitable for fingerstyle playing?: Yes, the Custom Light gauge is popular among fingerstyle players because the lower tension allows for easier fretting and more expressive note bending. The bright tone also provides excellent note separation.
Why should I choose Earthwood over Ernie Ball M-Steel strings?: Earthwood strings are designed specifically for acoustic guitars using bronze alloys. M-Steel strings are high-output electric guitar strings and would not provide the correct acoustic resonance or tension for an acoustic instrument.