Gauge labels give you a quick idea of how a set feels, but the numbers tell you exactly what's inside. The same word means different gauges on different instruments. Here's how S.I.T. names line up, using top and bottom gauges. Compare by numbers when switching between instruments or lines: the first number (the thinnest string) shapes how a set feels for bending, and the last (the thickest) shapes the low end.
Electric, from Power Wound Nickel:
- S838 Ultra Light: .008–.038
- S942 Extra Light: .009–.042
- S1046 Light: .010–.046
- S1150 Medium Light: .011–.050
- S1252 Medium: .012–.052
- S1356 Heavy: .013–.056
Acoustic, from Phosphor Bronze:
- P946 Ultra Light: .009–.046
- P1048 Extra Light: .010–.048
- P1150 Pro Light: .011–.050
- P1254 Light: .012–.054
- P1356 Medium: .013–.056
Bass, from Power Wound Nickel Bass: NR45100L Light (.045–.100), NR45105L Medium Light (.045–.105), NR50105L Medium (.050–.105), NR60120L Heavy (.060–.120).