Which guitar strings

To make things simpler, guitarists typically refer to an entire set of strings by the size of the high E string. The 3 standard options to choose from are low , medium , and high tension. Heavier gauges are generally better for :.

Lighter gauges are generally better for :. These are intended for players who use a good mix of picking and strumming. With electric strings , the 3 most common metals used are:. Other less-common metals for electric strings include titanium , cobalt , chrome and copper.

With acoustic strings , the 3 most popular options are:. With classical strings , the most common materials used are:. Beneath the outer winding of the bass strings E6 , A5 , D4 and sometimes G3 …. There is a solid core wire that comes in 1 of 2 varieties :.

Check out the diagram above to see how they look from a cross-section view. This part refers only to electric and acoustic strings…not classical. NOTE : One key detail to remember with round core strings is…you must tune them up to pitch before trimming them. Otherwise, the outer wrapping will slip and unravel. The wire that wraps around the solid core comes in 1 of 3 varieties :. Of the 3, roundwounds are the most popular by far. Flatwounds are 2nd most popular, but are usually more expensive.

Halfrounds are the least popular, and you can pretty much disregard them when shopping for strings. NOTE : While not in the scope of this article, you might care to know that with bass guitars , flatwound strings are more popular. Back in , the Elixir company revolutionized the guitar string industry….

They created a barrier that protected the metal from damaging substances such as oil , sweat , dirt , and skin. But rather than try to explain it in words, check out the cool visuals in this Elixir promo video:. Personally I love this, because it makes the buying process much simpler. Apologies if I left out your favorite brand here.

Over the years they expanded, eventually moving to New York, and abandoning gut strings in favor of synthetic. And in , they became one of the earliest companies to start producing modern day electric guitar strings. When a man by the name of Ernie Ball was first introduced to Leo Fender back in ….

And from that day forward he dedicated his life and business to helping it become the most popular instrument in the world. His most notable contribution is undoubtedly his line of Super Slinky electric guitar strings. Originally developed back in , they are still today perhaps the most instantly recognizable brand on the shelf of any guitar shop.

Players with a lighter touch may find that they also get a better dynamic response from a lighter gauge. When you play your guitar, very small parts of dead skin from your fingers can get caught in between the windings of the strings, and your sweat will corrode the metal.

How regularly you need to change the strings on your acoustic guitar will also vary. Chris Corfield is a journalist with over 12 years of experience writing for some of the music world's biggest brands including Orange Amplification, MusicRadar, Guitar World Total Guitar and Dawsons Music. Chris loves getting nerdy about everything from guitar gear and synths, to microphones and music production hardware.

Guitar World. Included in this guide: 1. Spec: Steel core, aluminum bronze winding, uncoated. Reasons to avoid - Can be too bright sounding at times. Spec: High carbon steel core, nickel-plated phosphor bronze winding, uncoated. Reasons to avoid - Not as durable as coated.

Martin 'Clapton's Choice' Acoustic Strings. First choice acoustic strings from one of the best in the business. Spec: Steel core, phosphor bronze winding, uncoated. Reasons to avoid - Phosphor bronze can lack that 'zing'. Reasons to avoid - Expensive. Fender Dura-tone Acoustic Guitar Strings. Spec: Steel core, phosphor bronze winding, Dura-tone coated.

Reasons to avoid - Coating changes the feel. Ernie Ball Earthwood Phosphor Bronze. Spec: Brass-plated steel core, phosphor bronze winding, uncoated. Reasons to avoid - Not too expensive, but not the cheapest, either. These acoustic strings use nano-tech for long-lasting performance. Reasons to avoid - This level of protection costs. Martin Authentic Acoustic Superior Performance.

A tried and tested classic from one of the best names in acoustic guitar. Reasons to avoid - Not much. Gibson Masterbuilt Acoustic Strings.

Reasons to avoid - Thicker than some strings. Spec: Mandolin-wire hex-core, Nickel plated steel outer wrap, uncoated. Reasons to avoid - A bit gimmicky? Reasons to avoid - Coating isn't for everyone. Spec: Steel core, phosphor bronze winding, K3 coated.

Light strings tend to have a brighter sound and accent more of the high notes. Medium strings bring out more bass and heavy strings are best for booming low ends. String Material The core metal used to make Guitar Strings also affect the tone. Different string materials create different string tensions as well and affect playability. Strings and Playing Style As mentioned, the kind of strings to choose would depend on your tone preference and playing style.

A beginner who is just getting started on fingerpicking, may find lighter-gauge strings easier to play. If you are more of a strummer and use a pick to play, medium-gauge strings may be ideal. Beginners all have difficulty fretting notes without touching the adjacent strings because you are not used to fretting or making the right hand and finger movements yet.

If the great Israel Kamakawiwo'ole could play a tiny Ukulele with his big hands, you should have no problem playing the Guitar! Previous article Next article. Join Us Your email.