Description
Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottom 10-52
A modern hybrid string set engineered for fast bends on the treble side and tight, aggressive rhythm tone on the lower strings — perfect for rock, metal, drop tunings and versatile players.
Quick Highlights
- Hybrid gauge: light top strings (10-13-17), heavy bottom (30-42-52)
- Easy bending + powerful rhythm clarity
- Nickel-plated steel for bright, punchy attack
- Ideal for drop tuning (D, Drop D, Drop C#)
- Perfect for rock, metal, shredding & riff-driven genres
Ernie Ball’s Skinny Top Heavy Bottom 10-52 set combines light treble strings for effortless bends and vibrato with heavy bass strings for tight, controlled low-end response. This hybrid design has become one of the most popular choices for players who want strong rhythm performance and expressive lead playability — all in one set.
Nickel-plated steel windings offer punchy brightness, clear mids and durable lifespan, making this set ideal for rock, metal, alternative and modern guitar styles.
- Gauge: 10 – 13 – 17 – 30 – 42 – 52
- Winding: Nickel-plated steel
- Core: Tin-plated, hex-shaped steel core wire
- Tone Profile: Bright, punchy, tight bass response
- Feel: Light top for bending, heavy bottom for power
- Ideal Genres: Rock, metal, alt, prog, modern guitar
- Ideal Tunings: Standard, Drop D, D Standard, C# Standard
- Hybrid Gauge Design: Best of both worlds — light top, heavy bottom.
- Lead-Friendly Trebles: Effortless bends and fast phrasing.
- Heavy Riffing Power: Tight low-end for palm muting and drop tunings.
- Premium Materials: Nickel-plated steel for clarity and sustain.
- Versatile Sound: Works well across multiple genres and tunings.
1. Who are these strings designed for?
Players who want light, expressive leads and tight, powerful rhythm tones.
2. Are these good for drop tunings?
Yes — the heavier 30-42-52 bass strings handle Drop D and D Standard very well.
3. Do they feel different from regular 10-46?
Yes — top strings feel the same, but the bottom strings feel noticeably tighter and fuller.
4. Are they suitable for beginners?
Absolutely — the light top helps beginners bend comfortably while still enjoying strong rhythm tone.
5. How long do they last?
Nickel-plated steel strings generally last several weeks to months depending on playing style and care.