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7, 8, and 9 String Electric Guitar Strings

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Love the extended range and versatility you get with 7 string and 8 string electric guitars? If you play jazz or metal, you're especially likely to love these instruments.

Whether you prefer 7 strings or more, we've got plenty of great sets for you to choose from. They include popular sets like the D'Addario ECG24-7 chromes, the D'Addario EXL120-7 nickel, and the Elixir 12057 coated, along with strings from other top manufacturers like Dean Markley, GHS, and La Bella. You're bound to find your favorite strings, and perhaps some new sets to try.

We've got more, too, like wide selections of strings for 6 string electric guitars and guitar accessories.

Have a question about 7 string and 8 string electric guitar strings? Call 800-513-8271 to talk with our friendly music, strings, and gear experts or contact them online. They’re available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. EST.

And remember: U.S. orders received weekdays before 3 p.m. EST ship the same day!

FAQs

What makes 7, 8, and 9-string sets different from standard 6-string sets?

For 7, 8, and 9-string guitars, the key difference from a standard 6-string set is the addition of one to three extra low, heavy-gauge strings that extend the instrument’s range. These sets are tailored for specific down-tunings and are intended for purpose-built extended-range guitars with wider necks and often longer scale lengths to maintain proper tension and intonation.

What are the most common gauges for 7, 8, and 9 string electric guitars?

The most common gauges are:
- 7-string sets in .009-.054 or .010-.059/.060 (low B ~.056-.064)
- 8-string sets in .009-.074 or .010-.074/.080 (low F#)
- 9-string sets that extend an 8-string pack with ~.080-.090 for the 9th string (typical overall .009–.084 to .010–.090).

Can I use a regular 6-string set and just add a single low string in my 7, 8, and 9 string electric guitar?

Yes, you can add a single heavier low string to a regular 6-string set on a 7, 8, or 9-string, but purpose-built extended-range sets usually give better balance, intonation, and feel.

What are the popular brands that make strings for 7, 8, and 9-string electric guitars?

Popular brands that make strings for 7, 8, and 9-string electric guitars include D’Addario, Ernie Ball, Stringjoy, DR, GHS, and Dunlop.

How often should I change the strings on my 7, 8, and 9-string electric guitar?

You should change strings on 7, 8, and 9-string electric guitars about every 4-6 weeks if you play regularly, 1-2 weeks for daily/gigging, and 2-3 months for occasional use or when they sound dull, won’t intonate, or feel corroded.

How does string gauge affect the tone of the lower strings on a 7, 8, or 9-string guitar?

String gauge directly shapes the tone of the lower strings on 7-, 8-, and 9-string guitars: heavier gauges increase tension for a tighter, clearer low end and steadier intonation in down-tunings, while lighter gauges feel looser and can sound brighter but risk flub, buzz, and muddiness.

What's the best string gauge for drop tunings on these guitars?

For drop tunings on extended-range guitars, use heavier, balanced sets: 7-string drop A typically 10-59/60 (or 11’s for extra tension), 8-string drop E/F# about 10-74, and 9-string drop C#/D roughly 9-90, adjust slightly for your scale length (25.5″ vs. 26.5″-27″) and feel.

Do I need a specific string type (e.g., stainless steel, nickel-plated) for djent or other heavy music genres?

You don’t need a specific string type for djent or heavy styles; both nickel-plated steel and stainless steel work; stainless tends to sound a bit brighter and snappier, while nickel-plated feels smoother in the mids.

How does string tension on a multi-string guitar compare to a standard 6-string?

Multi-string electric guitars are similar to a standard 6-string when you use balanced, extended-range sets, but the overall load is higher because of the extra strings.

Is it okay to replace just one broken string on a 7, 8, or 9-string electric guitar?

Yes, it's okay to replace just one broken string on a 7, 8, or 9-string, but for older sets you'll get the most consistent tone and feel by changing the whole set.

Do I need to adjust my guitar's truss rod or intonation when changing string gauges?

Yes, you’ll likely need to adjust the truss rod and re-set the intonation when changing string gauges on a 7, 8, or 9-string, because heavier gauges raise tension (often bowing the neck forward) and different diameters change the string’s effective length. truss rod

How do string materials interact with humbuckers or active pickups on these guitars?

String materials shape how humbuckers and active pickups respond because pickups sense the string’s ferromagnetic core.
- Nickel-plated steel is the balanced standard
- stainless steel adds a brighter, snappier attack
- pure nickel sounds warmer
- cobalt-alloy options can boost output.

What's the purpose of a "tapered" or "exposed core" low string?

A “tapered” or “exposed-core” low string lets the thinner core sit on the saddle, instead of the whole winding, which reduces stiffness at the contact point so heavy, low-tuned strings intonate more accurately, ring clearer, and fit standard bridges more easily. saddle

Are there strings made specifically for guitars with a fan-fret or multiscale design?

Yes, there are string sets that are marketed specifically for fan-fret/multiscale guitars, but any steel-core extended-range set will work as long as the winding length and taper placement suit your scale and bridge. multiscale guitars

How does string choice affect the sound of a 7, 8, or 9-string guitar through a high-gain amplifier?

String gauges and materials drive clarity, tightness, and note separation on extended-range guitars with high gain, especially on the lowest strings. Heavier gauges keep the low end tighter; stainless steel or cobalt windings add bite and cut, while nickel-plated steel gives a smoother, warmer midrange. Coated versions last longer but can slightly soften the top end.