Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (7)
$11.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (6)
$11.99
Amazon
4.6 (520)
$11.39
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$10.51 29 available New
Musician's Friend
4.0 (3)
$11.99

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Guitar Strings (8-38)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Discover the Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Guitar Strings (8-38), a game-changer for musicians seeking exceptional tone and performance. These strings are crafted with a cutting-edge cobalt alloy that offers an unmatched magnetic relationship with your guitar pickups, resulting in a powerful output that will make your music stand out. This innovative material not only delivers beefy lows, clear mids, and crisp highs but also ensures longer-lasting string life, even under the most demanding playing conditions.

Ernie Ball's Cobalt Strings are renowned for their silky-smooth feel, providing effortless playability whether you're shredding solos or strumming chords. The extra slinky gauge enhances flexibility, making it easier than ever to execute intricate bends and fast passages. Musicians like Slash and John Petrucci rave about the enhanced clarity and punch these strings offer, transforming their sound with a new level of detail and dynamics.

Ideal for players who demand the best from their gear, these strings promise a brighter, more vibrant tone without sacrificing comfort or durability. Made in the USA with precision manufacturing, the Ernie Ball Cobalt series is designed to keep your playing at its peak.

Key Features:

  • Innovative cobalt alloy for stronger magnetic interaction.
  • Enhanced output and tone with rich lows and clear highs.
  • Silky feel for ultimate playability and smooth bends.
  • Long-lasting performance, resisting sweat and corrosion.
  • String gauges: .008, .011, .014, .022w, .030, .038.
  • Made in the USA.

Product specs

Guitar Type Electric Guitar
Number of Strings 6
Coated No
Gauges .008, .011, .014, .022w, .030, .038
Core Material Steel
Winding Material Iron/cobalt alloy
Winding Type Round Wound

FAQs

What makes Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Guitar Strings different from regular nickel strings?

Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt strings provide a stronger magnetic relationship with pickups, resulting in a higher output and a more dynamic range compared to regular nickel strings. They also offer a smoother feel and a more powerful tone.

Are Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Guitar Strings suitable for beginners?

Yes, these strings have a light gauge (.008-.038), making them easier to press down and bend, which is ideal for beginners who are developing finger strength and dexterity.

How do Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Guitar Strings affect tone?

These strings enhance the clarity and sustain of your guitar, offering a bright and articulate tone with a strong low end, thanks to the cobalt alloy's interaction with magnetic pickups.

Do Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Guitar Strings last longer than other strings?

While not coated, the cobalt material used in these strings is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, potentially offering a longer lifespan than traditional nickel strings.

Can I use Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Guitar Strings for drop tunings?

These light gauge strings are not ideal for lower tunings due to potential string tension issues. They are best suited for standard tuning or slightly lower tunings where light gauge strings are preferred.

Barista Bear

Barista Bear

Guitar String Test: Ernie Ball Extra Slinky vs. D’Addario EXL130 vs. Ernie Ball Cobalt Super Slinky

Video thumbnail for Guitar String Test: Ernie Ball Extra Slinky vs. D’Addario EXL130 vs. Ernie Ball Cobalt Super Slinky by Barista Bear

Guitar String Test: Ernie Ball Extra Slinky vs. D’Addario EXL130 vs. Ernie Ball Cobalt Super Slinky

Barista Bear

Barista Bear

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Slinky Cobalt 8-38 guitar strings by rmenga

Ernie Ball Slinky Cobalt 8-38 guitar strings

rmenga

rmenga

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Cobalt Guitar Strings (8-38).

Setup and maintenance

  • 8-38 strings may cause fret buzz in Drop D due to low tension, affecting tuning stability and clarity.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • These strings are not ideal for Drop D tuning; they may feel too loose and lack tension for clear sound.

    Source
  • Extra Slinky strings are favored by players with a light touch, offering a comfortable feel but sometimes lacking in tonal preference.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A typical D string gauge is 24 or 26; the 38 gauge in this set is much lighter.

    Source
  • Users often compare Ernie Ball Extra Slinky strings to D’Addario, noting a difference in perceived tension despite similar gauges.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Consider using a single 42 or 46 gauge string for the low E when frequently using Drop D tuning.

    Source

User experience

  • Some players find the tone of Extra Slinkies less appealing and are considering trying 8-38 pure nickel strings for a different sound.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • One user broke a high E string within a week, suggesting possible fragility or tension issues with these strings.

    Source

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