I think I can coax a decent tone out of any gauge. My preference for strings is more of a feel thing and being open to lower tunings. I play with a somewhat light touch, but occasionally like some moderate down tuning (D or Eb). So I stick with 10s.
edit: On a sidenote, it really isn't that crazy that Stevie used such big strings. 25.5 scale, Eb tuning, and mucho bending. Or Brian May with skinny strings - his Red Special is a 24" scale.
What strikes me as odd is Jimi played 8-38 apparently, but with the same abuse and guitar and tuning as SRV. I kind of don't believe it.
I really don’t think I can tell a difference in sound between 9s or 10s but I like the feel/tension on 10s. I think you should pick your string gauge to what feels and plays the best to you. What feels comfortable. You can dial in anything missing tone wise at the amp.