Re: Will a thicker e string give me better control?
You might like or dislike heavier strings for a variety of reasons, but they definitely won't increase your "control." More control will give you more control, with any strings. Once you get used to a set of strings, control is independent of string gauge, and entirely dependent on the controller.
To me, it just sounds like your setup is not optimized for the techniques you are attempting to employ. You use extremely low strings, IIRC. That makes a few things easier (like playing a lot of notes in a relatively short period of time). But it isn't a versatile way to set up your guitar, because it can make it harder to do a lot of other things, especially in the realm of what you are trying to play. Low strings necessitate a very light touch in order to make the notes have clarity and fullness, and they make bending more difficult. What you are trying to play is full of heavy-handed attack (with both the left and the right hand) and bends. It's not impossible to do that with super low strings, but it's like using a sports car to tow a trailer. It can be done, but it's just plain easier to do that stuff well with the right tool for the job. In the case of the trailer, that's a truck. In the case of what you are trying to do, it's higher strings. I'd start by 1.5x-ing or doubling your string height (and re-intonating to match), and then adjust from there. Also, if certain strings are sounding weaker than others, really put some time into setting up your pickups. There is a great range of tone and volume available by way of simple pickup adjustments.
