I’ve been using the Ernie Ball 2625 set on my 8-string, and it’s a solid choice for players looking for a balance between playability and tonal clarity across an extended range.
Playability & Feel:
The lighter treble gauges (.010–.017) make bends and fast passages comfortable, while the heavier bottom (.064–.074) provides enough tension to keep the low F# (or even drop tunings) from flopping around. On a 674 mm (26.5") scale, the set feels tight enough for riffing without being overly stiff — a good middle ground for both rhythm and lead players.
Tone:
Classic Ernie Ball Slinky character: bright, snappy highs with a strong midrange presence. The wound strings deliver a punchy low end without losing clarity, even in high-gain settings. Chords retain definition, and single notes cut through well. The nickel wound construction gives a slightly warmer feel compared to stainless, which works great for both metal and progressive styles.
Durability:
As expected from Ernie Ball, the strings hold up well under regular practice and gigging. They stay in tune reliably and resist corrosion decently if wiped down after sessions.
Overall:
This set is an excellent starting point for most 8-string players. It offers a versatile gauge spread that works for standard tunings, progressive metal, or experimental extended-range playing. If you’re looking for a dependable, balanced 8-string set with the familiar Slinky feel, the 2625s won’t disappoint.
