Pricing and availability

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

Guitar Center
4.5 (8)
$14.99
Amazon
4.6 (336)
$14.99
Reverb
$10.28 New
$16.99 Used
Musician's Friend
3.0 (3)
$14.99
zZounds
4.5 (1)
$14.99

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Guitar Strings (9-46)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Guitar Strings (9-46) are the ultimate choice for guitarists seeking unmatched durability without compromising on tone. Engineered with a revolutionary plasma treatment, these strings resist rust and breakage, making them perfect for both aggressive players and those living in challenging environments. Thanks to the patented Everlast nanotreatment, each string remains crisp and clean, repelling sweat and grime. This ensures your strings maintain their legendary Slinky tone, offering the same feel that guitarists have trusted for decades.

Whether you're shredding with a tremolo system or simply looking for a reliable set for gigging, these strings promise longevity and resilience. With a 90-day no-break/no-rust guarantee, Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky strings let you focus on your music without worrying about wear and tear. Trusted by guitar legends like John Petrucci and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, these strings are a testament to Ernie Ball's continued innovation in string technology. Elevate your playing experience with the strength and sound of Paradigm.

Key Features:

  • Rust- and break-resistant design
  • Hybrid Slinky set with gauges .009–.046
  • Plasma-treated for enhanced durability
  • Everlast nanotreatment for corrosion resistance
  • Maintains the iconic Slinky tone and feel
  • Ideal for aggressive playing styles and frequent travelers
  • 90-day no-break/no-rust guarantee

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball
Model P02022 Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Electric Guitar Strings (9-46)
Finish Standard
Year 2010s
Categories Guitar Strings

FAQs

What are the benefits of using Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Guitar Strings?

Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Strings offer enhanced durability and strength, maintaining a balanced tone and feel. They are designed to resist breakage and corrosion, making them ideal for players who require reliable performance in various playing conditions.

What materials are used in Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Strings?

The wound strings are made from nickel-plated steel wrapped around a hex-shaped steel core, while the plain strings are crafted from specially tempered tin-plated high-carbon steel. This combination ensures a bright, well-balanced tone and long-lasting performance.

Are Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Strings suitable for all music genres?

Yes, these strings are versatile and can accommodate a wide range of music genres. Their balanced tone makes them suitable for rock, blues, jazz, and more, providing both clarity and depth in sound.

Do Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Strings require special maintenance?

While these strings are designed to be corrosion-resistant and durable, regular cleaning with a dry cloth after playing can help maintain their longevity and performance.

What is the gauge of Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Strings?

The Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Strings have gauges of .009, .011, .016, .026, .036, and .046, offering a balanced tension that is comfortable for both lead and rhythm playing.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Paradigm: Stronger Than Paul Gilbert

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Paradigm: Stronger Than Paul Gilbert by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Paradigm: Stronger Than Paul Gilbert

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional tone praised by seasoned musicians

  • Long-lasting durability, ideal for heavy playing

  • Superior tuning stability throughout performances

  • Maintains "new" sound for extended periods

  • Minimal string breakage during performances

  • Suitable for various tunings, including drop D and half step down

  • Comfortable bending without sacrificing tension

  • Enhanced sustain and sound quality

CONS

  • Some users experience early string breakage

  • Requires string treatment to prevent corrosion

  • Initial "brand new" sound may be too bright for some

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Guitar Strings (9-46).

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners suggest using a rag or Fast-Fret to clean strings after playing to extend lifespan without needing expensive string wipes.

    Source
  • Downtuning Paradigm strings to Drop B can cause tuning instability, requiring frequent adjustments.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Paradigm strings are noted for their durability during hard bends and maintaining tuning stability, especially when using a whammy bar on a Stratocaster.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Elixir strings are recommended for superior corrosion resistance compared to Paradigms, though they may alter the feel and cost more than regular strings.

    Source
  • DR Dragonskin strings are noted for longevity and affordability, rivaling D'Addario XS and Elixir in performance.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Paradigm strings maintain a "fresh" feel longer and are favored on 7-string guitars for extended playability and tone retention.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Paradigm strings cost significantly more than standard strings, with some users not finding the price justified due to faster corrosion compared to brands like D'Addario.

    Source
  • Some players switch from Paradigm to Elixir due to cost and longer-lasting coating of Elixir strings.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users recommend using heavier tremolo springs for better tuning stability when using Paradigm strings in lower tunings.

    Source

User experience

  • Users note that Paradigm strings can be less comfortable in higher tensions, especially when using gauges like 10-52 in Drop C#.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ernie Ball Paradigm review: The best get better — Chasing Sound

chasingsound.com

Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Guitar Strings are hailed as a breakthrough, offering the familiar feel of Slinkys with enhanced durability, making them a compelling choice for players prone to breaks. While they may sound slightly darker than the originals, their resilience and tone make them a worthy upgrade. The 90-day break or rust replacement is a game-changer, ensuring confidence in longevity. Despite not undergoing rigorous break tests in the review, the strings impressed with their feel and sound across various playing styles. Ideal for guitarists seeking both reliability and the classic Ernie Ball experience, these strings are a solid investment.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
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1 star
skadoodle666

i just use these all the time

They're my go-to for standard, drop D and half step down, i just think they're good lmao

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul Gilbert uses Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Guitar Strings (9-46)

Paul Gilbert

Guitarist

Racer X

...
Verified via Photo

Paul Gilbert uses Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Guitar Strings (9-46), as highlighted on Ernie Ball's Instagram, where he participated in testing their durability.

See how Jeff Loomis uses Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Guitar Strings (9-46)

Jeff Loomis

Guitarist, Composer

Arch Enemy

...
Verified via Photo

As seen in Ernie Ball's Instagram account.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ernie Ball Paradigm Hybrid Slinky Guitar Strings (9-46), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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