Gauges 9-11-16-26-36-46. Ernie Ball 2252 Classic Electric Guitar Strings are crafted from pure nickel wire wrapped around tin-plated hex-shaped steel core wire. Produce a warm, rich tone. All Ernie Ball strings are precision manufactured to the highest standards and most exacting specs to assure consistency, optimum performance, and long life. Ernie Ball is the pioneer of rock and roll guitar strings. Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, Steve Vai, and Slash are among the long list of Slinky players.