Metal riffs lean on the low strings, often in lower tunings. Tuning down makes strings feel looser, so the lower you go, the heavier the low end needs to be to stay tight and articulate. Pair the set with your tuning.
How to choose:
- Standard or Drop D: .010–.052 keeps a light top for leads and a firmer low end.
- D Standard or Drop C: .011–.056, or .012–.054 for a firmer feel throughout.
- Lower still, or a 7-string: use a 7-string or baritone set rather than forcing a 6-string set down.
- Tone: stainless steel gives more attack and brightness. Nickel-plated steel is the middle ground.
After a big tuning or gauge change, expect to adjust truss rod, action, nut slots and intonation. Wider strings may not sit properly in a nut cut for lighter gauges.
S.I.T. options:
- S1052 Heavy Bottom (.010–.052) and S1156 Heavier Bottom (.011–.056) in Power Wound Nickel
- PS1052 Heavy Bottom in Power Steel Stainless
- S71058, S71060 and S79564 for 7-string guitars
- SU107 Extended Range in Universals Balanced Tension for an even feel across seven strings