Ernie Ball 2220 Power Slinky Nickel Wound Set (11 - 48)
Ernie Ball 2220 Power Slinky Nickel Wound Set (11 - 48) is engineered for players who crave a chunky, guitar-hero rhythm tone without sacrificing string life. This six-string electric set delivers pronounced low end, tight mids, and a punchy top end that sits perfectly in rock, blues, and hard-edged styles. If you want rhythm that kicks in with authority and sustain that carries through every solo, this is the set to reach for.
Trusted by legends like Slash, Metallica, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Power Slinky strings are designed for players who push their gear to the limit. The thicker gauge combination within the 11–48 set delivers more tension, producing a louder, more assertive attack and a fuller overall voice—ideal for rhythm-heavy riffs, palm-muted churn, and heavy blues riffs that demand definition and resilience.
What makes the Ernie Ball Power Slinky 2220 stand out
- Thicker gauge, stronger punch: The 11–48 wound string set provides increased tension, yielding a robust core feel and a barkier midrange that guitarists hear and feel when laying into riffs.
- Nickel-plated steel construction: Wound strings built with nickel plating deliver smooth playability, bright articulation, and durability across the fretboard, helping maintain consistent tone over time.
- Precision manufacturing: Each string is produced to exacting tolerances to ensure uniform tension, reliable intonation, and long life—so your set stays consistent from first string to last.
- Versatile for multiple genres: Whether you’re chasing aggressive blues leads, hard rock rhythm, or classic rock crunch, this set holds up in aggressive picking, drop tunings, and alternate tunings alike.
Who should consider this set
Perfect for players who want a heavier, more sustained rhythm presence without sacrificing clarity on the high strings. Ideal for:
- Rock players who lean into chunky riffs and palm-muted chugs
- Blues-rock guitarists seeking a strong, authoritative rhythm tone
- Players using drop tunings or detuned setups who need reliable string tension and stability
How this set translates to real-world playing
In the studio or on stage, the 11–48 Power Slinky delivers immediate impact—the bass frequencies feel solid and controlled, you get a pronounced midrange bite, and the high strings retain crispness for articulate solos. The thicker wound gauges resist flabbiness when bending or chugging, helping your riffs punch through the mix with confidence.
Installation and care tips
- Carefully thread each string into the bridge saddles and wind around the tuning pegs to maintain tuning stability under heavy playing.
- Stretch gently after stringing to settle them in, then tune up to pitch and retune after playing for a few minutes.
- Wipe strings after playing to reduce oils and sweat buildup, extending their life and maintaining tone.
Upgrade your rhythm game with the Ernie Ball 2220 Power Slinky Nickel Wound Set (11 - 48) and experience the bold, durable, studio-ready response that has made this configuration a favorite among professional players and tone enthusiasts alike.