Adamas 8080 Phosphor Bronze mandolin strings are made with ball ends, just like electric guitar strings. This extends life by a great deal, and are used on Ovation mandolins when shipped from their factory. Ovation Mandolins are strung in a nontraditional way, which makes restringing quicker and easier. The bridge design also contributes to a strong, clear sound, both acoustically and acoustic electrically. The stringing method requires that you use strings with ballends. Gauges: .011; .016; .024w; .038w.