Ernie Ball Unveils New Hermetically Sealed Protective String Packaging

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA (January 17, 2008) -New this year, Ernie Ball's modernized packaging methods ensure that your new string sets sound factory-fresh from the moment you open the package - and will retain their just-opened tone and appeal for even longer than before.


A recognized pioneer in the world of strings, Ernie Ball has revitalized its more than 45-year-old packaging concept, utilizing a new process that hermetically seals the strings into their packaging for increased resistance to moisture and impurities. Produced and packaged at Ernie Ball's desert headquarters in Coachella, CA, the strings are exposed to minimal airborne pollutants and humidity from factory to retailer - ensuring that all products are as fresh upon opening as they were the day they were made.


"This is the first time we've redesigned our packaging in over 45 years - and we've done ourselves proud," said Brian Ball of the Ernie Ball Company. "New technologies are allowing us to take string preservation to the next level, and what better place to start than with the packaging? This is yet another way for us to ensure that your strings play the same and last as long as if you snagged them right off the factory floor."


The new packaging also employs use of a high-gloss foil and Ernie Ball's signature color coded system, making the right Ernie Ball strings easy to find and impossible to ignore under bright store lights - plus, the company has put an end to counterfeit strings through the application of a genuine Element Shield Hologram.


Looking to bolster your collection of fine Ernie Ball strings, equipment and accessories? These previously introduced products are now available and shipping in March 2008.


Ernie Ball Wah Pedal - Combining a classic Wah sound with Ernie Ball's unmatched engineering, precision and strength.


Ernie Ball Straplocks - Mechanically engineered with a quick-release, 360-degree connection for instrument protection.


Ernie Ball Ultraflex Cables - Flexible, heavy duty instrument, speaker and microphone cables for purity all around.


Be sure to check out these and other Ernie Ball products at booth #5440 of the 2008 Winter NAMM show, taking place January 17-20 in. Anaheim, CA.

Ernie Ball is a leading innovator of guitar strings. The company was the first to offer rock strings with the introduction of Slinkys, and further revolutionized the market by offering guitarists Custom-Gauge® single strings. Ernie Ball also produces Music Man® guitars and basses, volume pedals and other accessories. Strings and accessories are available in more than 5,500 music stores throughout the U.S. and in 75 countries. For more information, contact the Ernie Ball Company at (805) 544-7726, or visit their website at .

These products are Ernie Ball trademarks registered in the USA and many foreign countries:

ERNIE BALL®     CUSTOM GAUGE®     SLINKY®     EARTHWOOD®
MUSICMAN®
STINGRAY®     SILHOUETTE®     AXIS®
STERLING®     4+2®     3+1®

Trademark ownership is indicated by the symbol ®, however, for the sake of brevity it is omitted during the story.

Contact:
Derek Brooks
Ernie Ball, Inc.
(800) 543-2255

Media Contact:
Keith Negrin
MORSEKODE
(952) 853-9555