Ernie Ball Earthwood 5-String Banjo Bluegrass 80/20 Bronze Loop End Strings - (9-20)

The Ernie Ball Earthwood 5-String Banjo Bluegrass Loop End set delivers the crisp, ringing tone demanded by bluegrass players through an 80/20 bronze alloy construction. These strings feature 80% copper and 20% zinc wire wrapped around hex-shaped tin-plated steel core wire, engineered specifically for the bright attack and fast decay that defines traditional bluegrass banjo playing. The lighter 9-20 gauge specification allows for easier bending and faster runs compared to heavier alternatives.

Gauges are distributed as .009, .011, .013, .020 wound, and .009 for the fifth string, optimised for G tuning and aggressive picking styles. The loop end design ensures compatibility with most standard banjo tailpieces and simplifies string changes during rehearsals or performances. The hex core construction provides enhanced string-to-core contact, improving tuning stability and sustain while the bronze alloy produces pronounced overtones that cut through ensemble settings. Each string maintains consistent diameter tolerances across its playing length for reliable intonation up the neck.

Features

• 80/20 bronze alloy: 80% copper, 20% zinc wire composition
• Hex-shaped tin-plated steel core wire for improved core contact
• Bluegrass gauge set: .009, .011, .013, .020w, .009 inches
• Loop end construction for standard banjo tailpiece compatibility
• Lighter tension optimised for G tuning and fast picking
• Crisp, bright tone with pronounced overtones and quick decay
• Fifth string gauge matches first string at .009 inches
• Consistent diameter tolerances for reliable intonation across fretboard