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Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience the Power of Cryogenics with Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Raise your performance to the next level with the Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings. Trusted by renowned artists like Yngwie Malmsteen, Joe Bonamassa, and Metallica, these strings have been crafted to deliver unparalleled sound quality and durability.

What sets the Dean Markley's strings apart is their unique cryogenic treatment. The strings are frozen to -320 degrees Fahrenheit and then carefully brought back to their original temperature. This process realigns the molecular structure, producing a more brilliant, longer-lasting string. The result is a smoother string with minimized transient frequencies, eliminating harsh highs and spongy basses.

But it's not just about the sound. The Blue Steel strings are also known for their ability to stay in tune better than other strings on the market. This makes them the perfect choice for both live performances and studio recordings.

Join the league of legendary artists and experience the difference with the Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings.

Key Features:

  • Cryogenically frozen to -320ºF to tighten the molecules and minimize microscopic cracks
  • Regular gauge: .010, .013, .017, .026, .036, .046
  • Roundwound for a smooth and rich sound
  • Material (winding): Nickel Plated Steel
  • Trusted by world-renowned artists
  • Made in the U.S.A.

Product specs

Brand Dean Markley
Model 2552 Blue Steel Electric Guitar Strings - Light (09-42)
Finish Standard
Year 2010s
Categories Guitar Strings

FAQs

What is the benefit of using Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings?

Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings are cryogenically treated, which enhances their durability and provides a bright, consistent tone. This treatment also helps the strings maintain their tuning stability longer than untreated strings.

Are Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings suitable for beginners?

Yes, Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings are suitable for beginners. Their light gauge (09-42) is easier on the fingers, making them a good choice for players who are just starting out and want to build finger strength without excessive discomfort.

What kind of tone can I expect from Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings?

Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings offer a bright and clear tone with a strong sustain. They are well-suited for genres that require articulate, crisp sounds, such as rock and blues.

How long do Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings typically last?

Due to their cryogenic treatment, Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings tend to last longer than many standard strings. While longevity can vary based on playing style and conditions, these strings are known for maintaining their tone and integrity over extended use.

Are Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings good for all electric guitars?

Yes, Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings are designed to fit most standard electric guitars. Their light gauge is versatile and can accommodate a variety of playing styles and guitar setups.

AskAGuitarPro

AskAGuitarPro

Dean Markley Blue Steel Strings Demo

Video thumbnail for Dean Markley Blue Steel Strings Demo by AskAGuitarPro

Dean Markley Blue Steel Strings Demo

AskAGuitarPro

AskAGuitarPro

Video thumbnail for Cordes Dean Markley Blue Steel by La Carte Musique

Cordes Dean Markley Blue Steel

La Carte Musique

La Carte Musique

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings.

User experience

  • Owners find the initial tone bright and appealing, ideal for clean styles, but report significant tone degradation after just a few days of use.

    Source
  • Long-term users appreciated the Blue Steels for maintaining quality over years, noting their affordability compared to other non-coated string options.

    Source
  • Players report Blue Steels can feel "rusty" despite appearing visually fine, particularly for those with sweat issues or in specific environments.

    Source
  • Some users have experienced inconsistent quality, with one person reporting a dead E string straight out of the package.

    Source
  • Despite occasional string breakage, long-term users remain loyal, suggesting a strong following even with minor quality issues.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users switched from Blue Steels to DR heavy bottom blues strings or Cobalts, suggesting a preference for different tonal characteristics as playing styles evolved.

    Source
  • Compared to Rotosound Jazz 77 Monel Flats, Blue Steels provide a brighter sound, while the Rotosounds offer a more muted tone, suitable for different bass styles.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Blue Steels are favored for bright sounds on active basses, with long-time users noting they "sit in the sweet spot" for extended periods.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Dean Markley Blue Steel Strings MED 11-52 Review | David Boles, Blogs

bolesblogs.com

The Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings promise cryogenic innovation but fall short of expectations. Despite their futuristic allure, the strings disappoint with a harsh, brittle sound lacking vibrancy and depth. The stainless steel construction, while aiming for brightness, results in discomfort and a lack of tonal warmth, with some users noting an unpleasant tactile experience. Additionally, concerns about corrosion due to non-hermetic sealing add to the woes. At twice the price of competitors like D’Addario, these strings fail to deliver the smooth, balanced playability expected, making them a poor choice for those seeking a mellow, resonant tone.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 31 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
hunterm1992

Best strings I've used

Stay sounding new for a very long time and don't break easily.

celsinho

heavy gauge FTW

so heavy i really loved this strings, way better than ernie ball not even slinky

dj_woki

Ich schreibe Musik und spiele gerne Yamaha Electone.

Hello, I like, if I have a Moments... and the chance for my sound engineering. It self make my feelings happily and I thinking sure, that nothing can do it better than it self ! ..........Can I find a job ( my hobby & my Life ), like a ....sound designer, noise and voice philosopher, .....audio, voice and noise Producer ? .... ... in theWorld-music scene, I can be interesting for the other, they like music. ...my melodic Songs without pessimistic thinking, can make the other people, their Life is unhappy, better ! I have my 5 Songs, what I wrote, I can play it, because I made it... than ... What I must To do to be respected in the Music-World ?

If.i make the Songs, the. First I must playing and performing in the self time...some melodies or rhythms with my orgel ELECTONE YAMAHA C-35N If you want , I can send my one of 5 ????©® recorded song ( it is for my possible publication by musician ) Thanks a lot and... you will seen if I can be interesting for ? "something special for someone special "

dylan_hutto

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kurt Cobain uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Kurt Cobain

Singer, Guitarist

Nirvana

...
Verified via DEAN MARKLEY USA

he used dean markleys .10-.52 gauges according to dean markley themselves

See how Jonny Greenwood uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Jonny Greenwood

Guitarist

Radiohead

...
Verified via guitarworld

He uses Dean Markley Blue Steel .010-.046 according to the page paragraph: "STRINGS/TUNING: Dean Markley Blue Steel .010-.046/Standard.009-.040/ Standard"

See how Steve Vai uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Steve Vai

Guitarist

Whitesnake

...
Verified via Photo

At the second column, you'll read "Steve uses: Ibanez Guitars, DiMarzio Evolution Pickups, Marshall, Bogner, Carvin and Fender Amps, Dean Markley Strings, Morley Pedals."

I also personally asked DM on their FB page:

Me: "Hi, one more question. Can you tell me what specific DM strings Steve Vai used back then? Because that's exactly what I want. ????" FEB 16TH, 8:11AM

DM: "Hi Dave, Steve played the Blue Steels 9-42s"

See how Jeff Buckley uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Jeff Buckley

Singer, Guitarist

Jeff Buckley(band)

...
Verified via Jeff Buckley

Listed among Buckley's gear on his official website.

See how Gustavo Cerati uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Gustavo Cerati

Singer, Guitarist

Soda Stereo

...
Verified via YouTube

En la entrevista a Barakus, guitar tech de Cerati, afirma en el minuto 7:47 que Gustavo usaba las cuerdas Dean Markley Blue Steel calibre 10. 46. en todas sus guitarras.

See how Ace Frehley uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Ace Frehley

Singer, Guitarist

Kiss

...
Verified via Guitar

According to Guitar Geek's rig diagram, Frehley uses the Dean Markley Blue Steels strings.

See how Johnny Ramone uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Johnny Ramone

Guitarist

Ramones

...
Verified via Photo

On the Mosrite forum, it's revealed that Johnny used Dean Markley Blue Steels. Johnny used surprisingly light strings; 9-42 and 8-38!

See how Dave Baksh uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Dave Baksh

Guitarist

Sum 41

...
Verified via Guitar

Dave used these strings on all his guitars until Chuck.

See how Pepper Keenan uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Pepper Keenan

Singer, Guitarist

Down

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar article states he uses Dean Markley custom set .011-.052 with wound third string

See how Dave Farrell uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Dave Farrell

Bassist

Linkin Park

...
Verified via BassPlayer.com

As mentioned in this interview with Bass Player magazine.

See how Jimmy Bower uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Jimmy Bower

Guitarist, Drummer

EyeHateGod

...
Verified via Photo

Jimmy uses Dean Markley Blue Steels on his Sonex and his DTM, according to this Guitar Geek rig diagram.

See how Woody Weatherman uses Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings

Woody Weatherman

Guitarist

Corrosion of Conformity

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar article states he uses Dean Markley custom set .011-.052

Album Usage

The Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Dean Markley Blue Steel Guitar Strings, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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mateusz_obirek

mateusz_obirek

Gear IQ 101

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