In this guide, we’ve put 3 of the best string sets on the market for a Gibson es 335.
The string sets in this guide have taken into account:
- Tuning stability – How quickly they settle, and how well did they hold tune
- Playability – Are they comfortable during extended play
- Overall tone – If the strings properly compliment the tones of the Gibson es 335
Ernie Ball Super Slinky
It’s no surprise that Ernie Ball Super Slinkies are the string of choice for countless pros and amateurs alike. Not only are they inexpensive, they feel great, and inconsistencies between packets are almost unheard of. They come as a .009-.042 gauge, which is what Ernie Ball refers to as a custom light.
The light super slinky gauge makes these strings almost effortless to play. Bends are easy, tension is low, so even beginners that don’t yet have calluses will find them comfortable.
The nickel-plated steel wrap is bright and clear, and really compliments the tones that Gibson’s are famous for. The mids are punchy, and note separation is fantastic in all pickup positions.
Ernie Ball strings generally take little time to settle after the initial tuning, and once stretched out, stability shouldn’t be a problem – even after some spirited use of the tremolo arm.
Verdict: Ernie Ball Super Slinkies are truly a do it all kind of string. They work for most genres, from metal, blues, and rock, to country. This is why they work so well on the Gibson es 335 and Gibson’s in general. It’s impossible to argue with the value that these strings bring, with its simple technology, and for a fair price.
D’Addario NYXL Nickel Wound Electric
It probably isn’t a surprise to see D’Addario strings on this list as they’re widely known as some of the best premium strings on the market, but when you pair these balanced tension NYXLs with a Gibson.
The dynamism of these strings is incredible. If you want to play mellow and soft, they’ll react accordingly. Again, if you kick things up a gear and hit them with a sharp attack, they’ll react perfectly with a huge punch in the middle, while still giving you sweet overtones at the high end to cut through a mix.
If you’re easily geeked out by guitar tech, then you’ll definitely be a fan of these strings. They’re made with a high carbon steel core, which allows the strings to maintain strength and elasticity over time. This means fewer breaks and better tuning stability than some other string set brands.
Verdict: If you’re looking for the best possible strings for your Gibson es 335 and the cost isn’t a concern, then you should defiantly consider going with the D’Addario NXYL BT. They feel amazing, they outlast most other nickel-plated steel string set brands on the market, they’re strong, they hold their tone extremely well, and tuning stability is as good as it gets.
Fender Yngwie Malmsteen Signature Bullet End
You probably don’t need an introduction to Yngwie Malmsteen who is one of Fender’s most iconic signature artists. Countless players look to emulate his lightning-fast style, and of course having access to his signature model guitar, complete with scalloped fretboard will help, although if you’re playing a Gibson es 335, then stringing up with his signature strings is a great start.
The Malmsteen signatures are available with a bullet end. The strings hold tune brilliantly, which is really essential if you’re planning to use a lot of tremolo.
When it comes to playability, these strings are definitely better suited to guitarists with a lighter touch. The gauge is very light at the high end with (.008), which can lead to easy breaks if you’re an aggressive player. Where these strings really come through are arpeggiated picking and sweep picks.
The Signature Bullet End strings are made from nickel-plated steel, which as most players know, is par for the course with electric strings.
Verdict: These strings are quite niche, but if you use your Gibson es 335 for shredding, and you’re ok with frequent string replacement, these Yngwie Malmsteen Signature strings are a solid choice. Not only are they fast, but they also hold tune well, and can easily step and a half bends without choking.
Choosing The Best Guitar Strings For Your Gibson ES 335
All guitars come in many forms, so there’s no real one size fits all approach, but depending on how you use your es 335, and which style you have.
Playing Style
If you play as lead, you should look for strings with a lighter gauge. Not only will this allow solo work more comfortable but will allow for more expressive bends and vibratos. You can always up to a heavier gauge as your playing progresses, but light gauges, like the Yngwie Malmsteen signatures, or the Ernie Ball Super Slinkies will work well.
If you’re a rhythm player then may want to look more at a medium or medium to heavy gauge like the D’Addario NYXLs. The NYXLs stand up well to heavy strumming and provide enough presence in the mid-range to keep your band sounding full.
Genre
The genre of music you play is another factor to consider when choosing the best strings for your Gibson es 335.
If you play heavier genres, then heavy gauge strings will allow you to drop tune and retain tension better.
If your preferred genre is blues, then something light will have lower tension, allowing you to play expressively without hurting your fingers and snapping strings.
Finally, if you don’t want to box yourself into a single genre, then a medium string set gauge will provide you with all the versatility you need to play anything you want while still sounding good.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to keep costs down, but you want something that still sounds great and is good enough for some of the world’s greatest guitarists, then you certainly won’t be disappointed by the Ernie Ball Super Slinkies.
Finally, if you want to string up your es 335 with the best that money can buy, then it’s recommended to go for the D’Addario NXYL balanced tension set. Not only do they sound amazing across all genres, but they’re comfortable to play, and they’ll last way longer than you’d ever expect an uncoated string would.