US
Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Earthwood P02047 Silk and Steel Extra Soft Strings

  • Gauges 10, 14, 20, 28, 40, 50
  • Silk layer between core and wrap
  • 80/20 bronze wrap wire
  • Tin-plated high-carbon steel core
  • Made in California, USA

Last refreshed Sep 7, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A soft-feel acoustic set with a silk layer under bronze wraps for players who want a mellow tone and easy fretting. It trades brightness and volume for comfort.

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ASIN: B0002DVB7QCategory: Acoustic Guitar Strings

Sizes Available

3-PackSingle Pack

Styles Available

Soft (11-52)12-String Soft (9-46)Regular (13-56)

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Overview

A silk wrap layered between a tin-plated steel core and bronze windings gives the Ernie Ball Earthwood Silk and Steel set its soft touch. The bronze brightness is mellowed by the silk, giving a warm tone with a comfortable feel.

Comfort is the point: lighter gauges and a silk cushion make fretting easy on tender fingertips. Expect less volume and sparkle than a standard bronze set.

Who it's for

New players with sore fingers and quiet fingerpickers get a softer touch. Players who need a bright, cutting acoustic sound for a band should look at standard bronze.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Silk layer softens feel
  • Light gauges ease fretting
  • Warm, mellow tone
  • Made in California
Cons
  • Less volume than standard sets
  • Coating not listed

Performance notes

The silk layer damps some vibration between core and wrap, mellowing the bright bronze attack. Lighter gauges lower tension, so fretting takes less pressure but projection drops.

Specifications

BrandErnie Ball
String Material Type80/20 bronze wrap with silk
InstrumentAcoustic guitar
Gauges10, 14, 20, 28, 40, 50
CoreTin-plated high-carbon steel

Frequently asked questions

What does extra-soft mean on the Ernie Ball Silk and Steel set?

It refers to the lighter gauge spread and the silk layer under the bronze wrap, which soften touch and tone.

Are Silk and Steel strings nylon?

No. They have a steel core with silk and 80/20 bronze wraps, for acoustic guitar.

Where are Silk and Steel strings made?

In California, USA.