What is the gauge range of the Ernie Ball 2728 set?

The set features gauges ranging from .010 on the high E string to .056 on the low 7th string. Specifically, the gauges are 10, 13, 17, 26, 36, 46, and 56.

How does Cobalt affect the output of the guitar?

Cobalt creates a larger magnetic field compared to traditional nickel or steel strings. This leads to a stronger signal being sent to the pickups, resulting in higher output and increased volume.

Are these strings suitable for standard 6-string guitars?

No, this is a 7-string set specifically designed for instruments with seven tuners and the appropriate scale length. Using only six of the strings would leave you without a standard set configuration.

What is the primary benefit of Cobalt for 7-string players?

The primary benefits are the extended low-end response and unparalleled clarity. This ensures the 7th string remains defined and punchy rather than sounding dull or muddy.

How do Cobalt Slinkys feel to the touch?

They are designed to be soft to the touch and silky. This tactile quality is intended to be easier on the fingers and reduce wear on the frets over time.

Can these strings help with harmonic content?

Yes, the Cobalt alloy is engineered to enhance harmonic content. This results in a richer, more complex tone with better projection across all frequencies.

What is the typical price for the Ernie Ball 2728 set?

The typical price for this 7-string set is approximately £13.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.

Are Cobalt strings more durable than nickel strings?

While durability depends on the player, the cobalt alloy is marketed as being 'good to your frets.' Its unique composition is designed to withstand heavy use while maintaining its output and clarity.

How does this set compare to the Ernie Ball M-Steel series?

Cobalt Slinkys focus on magnetic output and harmonic clarity with a soft feel. M-Steel strings, like the 2921 set, use a different high-output alloy, whereas Cobalt is specifically known for its unique magnetic field properties.

Is the 2728 set recommended for low-tuning styles like Metal?

Yes, the extended low end and clarity make them highly suitable for metal and other genres that utilise 7-string guitars for heavy, down-tuned riffing.

Does the Cobalt material affect the fret life of the guitar?

According to the manufacturer, the Cobalt alloy is designed to be gentle on frets. This may help in reducing the rate of fret wear compared to some harder stainless steel string variants.

Why should I choose Cobalt over the Tim Henson Signature Slinkys?

The Tim Henson 3826 set uses a nickel wrap and is a 6-string set with different gauges. You would choose the 2728 Cobalt set if you need a 7th string and desire the specific high-output magnetic characteristics of cobalt.

Gear article

Ernie Ball 2728 Cobalt Slinky 7-String Set (10–56)

The Ernie Ball 2728 Cobalt Slinky is a high-performance string set designed specifically for 7-string electric guitars, featuring a proprietary cobalt alloy wrap. These strings are engineered to provide an extended low-end response and increased output through a stronger magnetic relationship with guitar pickups.

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Overview

The Ernie Ball 2728 Cobalt Slinky set is a specialised string package tailored for modern 7-string guitarists. Utilising a cobalt iron alloy for the wrap wire, these strings offer a distinct technological departure from traditional nickel-plated steel. The set is gauged from .010 to .056, providing a balanced tension across the extended range of a 7-string instrument, supporting both standard and dropped tunings.

Material Science and Output

The primary innovation of the Cobalt Slinky line is its magnetic property. Cobalt provides a stronger magnetic relationship with guitar pickups than traditional alloys. This results in a 'larger' magnetic field, which translates to a higher output and improved harmonic content. This increased induction allows for greater projection and clarity, particularly useful for the low-frequency requirements of a 7-string guitar's seventh string.

Playability and Tactile Feel

Despite their high-output characteristics, the 2728 Cobalt Slinky strings are noted for being soft to the touch. The cobalt alloy is designed to be gentle on both the player's fingertips and the guitar's frets. This reduction in friction facilitates easier movement across the fretboard and can contribute to longer playing sessions with less physical fatigue.

Sonic Character

The tonal profile of the Cobalt Slinky set is characterised by enhanced clarity and an extended low-end. The increased harmonic content provides a crisp top end that helps 7-string guitars cut through a mix. By maintaining definition in the lower registers, these strings prevent the 'muddiness' often associated with the thicker gauges required for a low B or A string.

Target Audience and Comparisons

These strings are primarily suited for guitarists who require maximum clarity from their extended-range instruments. While players looking for a more traditional, vintage sound might prefer the 3826 Tim Henson Signature or standard nickel Slinkys, the Cobalt 2728 set is ideal for those seeking modern high-output performance. Compared to M-Steel variants like the 2921 set, Cobalt offers a specific tactile smoothness and a unique harmonic brilliance.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the gauge range of the Ernie Ball 2728 set?: The set features gauges ranging from .010 on the high E string to .056 on the low 7th string. Specifically, the gauges are 10, 13, 17, 26, 36, 46, and 56.
How does Cobalt affect the output of the guitar?: Cobalt creates a larger magnetic field compared to traditional nickel or steel strings. This leads to a stronger signal being sent to the pickups, resulting in higher output and increased volume.
Are these strings suitable for standard 6-string guitars?: No, this is a 7-string set specifically designed for instruments with seven tuners and the appropriate scale length. Using only six of the strings would leave you without a standard set configuration.
What is the primary benefit of Cobalt for 7-string players?: The primary benefits are the extended low-end response and unparalleled clarity. This ensures the 7th string remains defined and punchy rather than sounding dull or muddy.
How do Cobalt Slinkys feel to the touch?: They are designed to be soft to the touch and silky. This tactile quality is intended to be easier on the fingers and reduce wear on the frets over time.
Can these strings help with harmonic content?: Yes, the Cobalt alloy is engineered to enhance harmonic content. This results in a richer, more complex tone with better projection across all frequencies.
What is the typical price for the Ernie Ball 2728 set?: The typical price for this 7-string set is approximately £13.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
Are Cobalt strings more durable than nickel strings?: While durability depends on the player, the cobalt alloy is marketed as being 'good to your frets.' Its unique composition is designed to withstand heavy use while maintaining its output and clarity.
How does this set compare to the Ernie Ball M-Steel series?: Cobalt Slinkys focus on magnetic output and harmonic clarity with a soft feel. M-Steel strings, like the 2921 set, use a different high-output alloy, whereas Cobalt is specifically known for its unique magnetic field properties.
Is the 2728 set recommended for low-tuning styles like Metal?: Yes, the extended low end and clarity make them highly suitable for metal and other genres that utilise 7-string guitars for heavy, down-tuned riffing.
Does the Cobalt material affect the fret life of the guitar?: According to the manufacturer, the Cobalt alloy is designed to be gentle on frets. This may help in reducing the rate of fret wear compared to some harder stainless steel string variants.
Why should I choose Cobalt over the Tim Henson Signature Slinkys?: The Tim Henson 3826 set uses a nickel wrap and is a 6-string set with different gauges. You would choose the 2728 Cobalt set if you need a 7th string and desire the specific high-output magnetic characteristics of cobalt.