ive just changed from permanent E tuning to permanent drop-C tuning, and with that ive had to change string guages. i think my E string is a .52 or so... i find it easier to speed pick with heavier strings, but harder to solo, and atm speed picking is more important.
my guitar case is covered in Blue Steel strings and they have always been great, but the store i go to didnt have the blue steels i wanted so i had to get the Signature Series, and i must say im not so impressed!