In theory, gold coated strings are a great idea. Gold is more inert than the titanium alloy that is normally used. The problem is that gold is really weak, it's almost like covering your strings in wax, it rubs off after a week. That means that the nickel core is left exposed to the air. I highly recommend going with the Ernie ball alternative... Those are really quite superior and last 3 times as long. Alternatively, pyramid strings make 008s, though they're not coated, they're 1/3 of the price, so that's also a really good back for the buck. you could buy single pyramid strings to match this gauge exactly for half the price. I, personally, like thinner low strings, so I'll use the Ernie balls
