Watch: Ernie Ball explains why every guitarist will find a suitable Slinky size, plus new VPJR pedal tuner

NAMM 2020: Ernie Ball has unveiled a slew of new offerings for 2020, including brand-new Slinky lines, an updated VPJR pedal, new patch cables and a collection of straps.

New Slinky lines

Following repeated requests from fans, Ernie Ball has bolstered its Slinky collection of strings with a whopping eight new packs. These packs offer additional gauge combinations, designed every kind of guitarist.

Turbo Slinkys

Turbo Slinkys – 9.5, 12, 16, 26, 36, 46 – sit between Regular Slinkys and Hybrid Slinkys. These are designed for players who want added playability without differences in tone and tension.

Available March 2020.

Mondo Slinkys

Mondo Slinkys – 10.5, 13.5, 17.5, 30, 42, 52 – are perfect for those who want a heavier low end, with minimal difference in tension on the plain strings.

Available March 2020.

Skinny Top Beefy Bottom Slinkys

Skinny Top Beefy Bottom Slinkys – 10, 13, 17, 32, 44, 54 – offers the playability of the Regular Slinkys and slightly heavier wound strings than the Beefy Slinkys. Ernie Ball claims this is ideal for players who love to bend for solo work but still want some heft for chords and rhythm.

Available March 2020.

Mighty Slinkys

Mighty Slinkys – 8.5, 11, 15, 22w, 30, 40 – sit between Super Slinkys and Extra Slinkys, offering light tension across all six strings.

Available March 2020.

Hyper Slinkys

Hyper Slinkys  – 8, 11, 14, 24w, 32, 42 – sit between Super Slinky and Extra Slinky for great playability, a light feel and less tension on the top strings.

Available Summer 2020

Hyper Slinkys Bass

Hyper Slinkys Bass – 40, 60, 80, 100 – Similar to the electric guitar set, these sit between Super Slinky and Extra Slinky bass strings. Designed for moderate tension on lower strings and lighter tension on higher strings.

Available Summer 2020

Magnum Slinkys

Magnum Slinkys – 12, 16, 22w, 32, 44, 56 – quite simply, are for players who want a heavier set with a wound G. Perfect for heavy riffs and chugging.

Available Summer 2020

Skinny Top Heavy Bottom 7-String Slinkys

Skinny Top Heavy Bottom 7-String Slinkys – 10, 13, 17, 30, 42, 52, 62 – were made so seven-string players can enjoy the benefits of this popular line too. Like the six-string set, these are ideal for players who like to bend for solos but still want a heavier bottom for chords and rhythm.

Available Summer 2020

Updated VPJR pedal

The VPJR was launched at NAMM 2019, packing a digital tuner and volume control in a convenient package. NAMM 2020 brings about an update to the pedal, from enhanced touchscreen settings – including a locking mode – to a more durable Kevlar cord for constant tension. Learn more in the video above.

Available March 2020.

New Straps

Ernie Ball’s accessory line-up has also been beefed up with 14 new stylish straps. These feature polypropylene webbing, embroidered leather ends and an extra-long design (41 inches to 72 inches).

Available in February 2020.

Flat Ribbon Patch Cables

Wrapping up Ernie Ball’s accessories offering for 2020 are new flat ribbon patch cables. These combine a flat cable design with low-profile connectors to help optimise pedalboard layout. They also feature a PVC jacket exterior to withstand the rigours of use. Available in 3″, 6″, 12″, and 24″.

Available in February 2020.

More information at ernieball.com.

Check out all NAMM 2020 news here.