Ernie Ball strings vs everything else

[Coma]

This isn't about what's better, I just need some help from the hive mind.

I swapped from GHS Low Boomers (11 - 52) to a set of Ernie Ball Magnum Slinky (12 - 56) on my Les Paul (tuned to C standard) to tighten things up. I swear the low E is as loose if not looser than it was with the old strings.

Is this a thing with Ernie Balls? Could I get higher tension with a .56 string from something like D'addario, or should I just switch to the next size up in the Slinky series?

 

[uOpt]

Next size up will probably get you into trouble with your nut slots.

It is hard to say whether you just have a string from a bad batch. Generally the differences between string makes and products can be significant.

If you like the sound otherwise I would first get another identical set and try that.

 

[jeremy]

different brands do have different "recipes" for strings. thinner core vs wrap or vise versa for the same gauge string. id dont know if ghs makes anything bigger. yes, the next size up in slinkys might solve the issue, but as uopt mentioned, you might need to widen the nut slot. a different brand might be a better option

 

[marcello252]

In my experience Ernie Ball tend to be looser and easier to bend than other brands, but they become very dull in a shorter time (I personally do prefer D'addario instead, harder but more consistent over time)

 

[LesStrat]

When I switched to DR, they were noticeable “looser” than previous brands when tuned to pitch. I like the easier bends.