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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Optima Gold 2028BM Brian May Electric Guitar Strings". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 23, 2026.

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Description

When it comes to capturing the essence of Brian May's legendary tone, the Optima Gold 2028BM Electric Guitar Strings stand in a class of their own. Designed for the discerning guitarist, these strings offer a truly distinctive playing experience. Brian May’s signature strings provide a unique blend of flexibility and stability, ensuring that each note rings out with crystal clarity and rich harmonics.

What sets these strings apart is their 24-carat gold-plating, which not only adds a touch of luxury but also provides practical benefits. Ideal for those with nickel allergies, these strings are as comfortable as they are stylish. The gold-plating also enhances the strings' longevity, ensuring they withstand the rigors of regular play while maintaining their vibrant tone.

Crafted in Germany, the Optima Gold strings promise quality and reliability. Their roundwound design contributes to a balanced sound profile, perfect for achieving both mellow and bright tones effortlessly. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a budding guitarist, these strings offer the versatility and durability you need to let your music shine.

Key Features:

  • Brian May signature strings
  • Gauges: 009 - 011 - 016 - 024w - 032w - 042w
  • 24-carat gold-plating
  • Suitable for people with nickel allergy
  • Roundwound construction
  • Made in Germany

Product specs

Available since January 2006
String gauge 009 - 042
Strength of the strings 0,009" – 0,042"
Material Gold
G-String Wound No

FAQs

What makes the Optima Gold 2028BM Brian May Electric Guitar Strings unique?

These strings are unique due to their 24K gold plating, which provides a bright tone and enhanced durability, making them a favorite for those seeking a premium sound and feel.

Are the Optima Gold 2028BM strings suitable for all electric guitars?

Yes, these strings are designed for use with most electric guitars, offering a balanced gauge of 009-042 that suits a wide range of playing styles and preferences.

Do the Optima Gold 2028BM strings include a wound G string?

No, the G string in this set is not wound, which is preferred by some players for easier bending and smoother playability.

How do Optima Gold 2028BM strings compare to regular nickel-plated strings?

Optima Gold strings offer a brighter tone and greater longevity due to their gold plating, while nickel-plated strings typically provide a warmer sound and are more common.

Are these strings suitable for replicating Brian May's tone?

Yes, these strings are designed to help replicate Brian May's iconic tone, as they are his signature set and reflect his preference for bright, articulate sound.

Sean Pierce Johnson

Sean Pierce Johnson

Optima Strings Brian May Signature Gold Guitar Strings Review - Do Gold Strings Have Better Tone?

Video thumbnail for Optima Strings Brian May Signature Gold Guitar Strings Review - Do Gold Strings Have Better Tone? by Sean Pierce Johnson

Optima Strings Brian May Signature Gold Guitar Strings Review - Do Gold Strings Have Better Tone?

Sean Pierce Johnson

Sean Pierce Johnson

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Optima Gold 2028BM Brian May Electric Guitar Strings.

User experience

  • Optima Gold 2028BM strings deliver a warm, full-bodied tone and ease of playability, though they may lack some bite in the attack.

    Source
  • Some owners note these strings feel slightly stiffer and heavier than regular strings of the same gauge.

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  • Users with nickel allergies find these strings essential, as they don't cause allergic reactions.

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Features and functionality

  • Gold plating on these strings results in less magnetic pull, contributing to their warmer tones and reduced twangy highs or boomy lows.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Caution is advised during installation; folding or creasing the strings can lead to permanent bends.

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Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for guitars with gold hardware, enhancing aesthetic appeal alongside sound quality.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Brian May uses Optima Gold 2028BM Brian May Electric Guitar Strings

Brian May

Singer, Guitarist

Queen

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Verified via Optima-strings

Brian May uses his signature strings (link to the Optima website). Here is also a link to the Rig Rundown where you can see a set of Optima Strings (back of the packet). Visible at 12.44.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJ_OamX-PA8

I have personally toured with Queen and been given a set of these strings by his tech.

See how Álvaro Castilla uses Optima Gold 2028BM Brian May Electric Guitar Strings

Álvaro Castilla

Guitarist, Composer

Heleven

...
Verified via Photo

Álvaro Castilla uses Optima Gold 2028BM Brian May Electric Guitar Strings, as revealed in his Instagram post expressing excitement about receiving the strings for his upcoming tour with Heleven.

Genre Usage

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

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