It doesn’t matter whether you are a professional or just starting to play the guitar, there will come a time when you need to replace the strings for your favorite instrument and then the difficult task of choosing them will arise. In order to choose good, and most importantly “correct” strings, you need to know a few things. We'll talk about them.
Important!!! Strings different types, can only be used on the corresponding instrument. Using strings for other purposes may lead to undesirable consequences, including failure of the instrument.
Today we will talk about how to choose, which is very popular in the market musical instruments, and . But before that I would like to say a little about what a string is. By and large, any wire or fishing line that can not deform or break after repeated use can be considered a string.
But if all the strings were the same thickness, then the sound of all 6, 7 or 12 strings would be the same. In order to make the sound of each string unique, in the 18th century they began to use winding, which can be made of various metals:
Bronze:
- Yellow- a bright clanging sound with good percussion, loud, beautiful, but yellow bronze requires care - it quickly oxidizes, the winding acquires a characteristic greenish color. It is better to store in a case in a dry place.
- Phosphorus- there is no such characteristic clanging, but the sound is more even, deep, with clear bass.
Which bronze to choose is an acquired taste, but personally I prefer the first option. I would like to note that if you choose bronze from a good manufacturer, you definitely won’t regret it. Cost from 60 - 100 UAH. average.
Copper- a cheaper string option. Although their sound is clear, with a good midrange, they do not have the same individuality as the bronze ones. In general, they sound approximately the same for different brands.
Silver- quite thin in structure. Their sound also has subtlety and clarity. Voiced, perfect for picking with both fingers and a pick. But, as for me, they do not have as much power when playing in combat as bronze ones.
And also be of different types:
- Round winding. These strings have a ringing and bright sound.
- Flat winding. These strings have a more matte, slightly muted sound.
In this regard, the sound of the guitars was filled with great power, which guaranteed the performer unforgettable success. In the 20th century, the range of strings became even more diverse. They are starting to be made on a steel cable, synthetic, with profile and multilayer winding, combined, bimetallic.
When choosing strings for your guitar, we must not forget that all strings are divided into 3 types: thin, medium thickness and thick (light tension, medium and strong, respectively)
- Thin strings It’s easier to press, your fingers don’t get so tired, but their sound is quieter
- Thick sets strings sound more juicy and rich, but they are harder to play.
- Average thickness ideal for beginning musicians and combines ease of string clamping and pleasant sound
In terms of thickness, sets 0.10 - 0.48, 0.11 - 0.52 best convey sound. Strings 0.12 - 0.56 add volume, but are very hard, so it is advisable to lower the tuning with them a little.
Synthetic strings are used only for classical guitar, so it is not surprising that such a guitar is recommended for learning by beginning musicians. When playing on such strings, your fingers don’t get so tired and it’s easier to press them to the frets. Typically, the top three strings are synthetic nylon line, and the rest are made of polyfilament backing. Often craftsmen use round wire for winding.
Also, I would like to note that synthetic strings come in higher density. Their inventors are considered to be Japanese scientists, who at the end of the 20th century began to use carbon in their work, which has a density higher than that of nylon. For example, the 3rd string of this type has a diameter of 0.85-0.92 mm. The main disadvantage of such strings is high price, since such material is 5-7 times more expensive than nylon. But despite this, high-density synthetic strings will provide you with enjoyable guitar lessons that are sure to be productive!
- Synthetic (nylon) strings. In such sets, the first three strings are made of nylon fishing line, and the three bass strings are made of many threads of the same nylon and covered with an outer metal winding, mainly copper, sometimes silver or brass (phosphor bronze).
- High density synthetic strings. These strings are made from carbon line, which gives them increased density and a thinner diameter. Such strings have a ringing, pronounced sound. The disadvantage is the high price.
- Strings on a steel cable. These strings are relatively soft and have different string wraps: the first three are with nylon tape, and the 4th to 6th are with silver plated copper. Such strings hold tuning very well and practically do not stretch. They are not very popular because the price is very high.
- Synthalic strings. These are strings that, even at the metal level, are characterized by high brightness of sound and the usual softness, like nylon strings. They tune up very quickly, the winding wears out much less from contact with the frets, and these strings also make it possible to make “braces.” The tune and rich sound remain unchanged for several months.
Strings for acoustic (pop) guitars:
- Monolithic steel strings. It is definitely worth mentioning the strings on a monolithic steel base. They can be seen on acoustic guitars, which are often used in pop music. These strings are based on high strength steel. The winding is most often made of copper or phosphor bronze and varies in hardness and elasticity. These parameters affect the sound of the guitar and the comfort of the fingers.
- Steel strings in a thin synthetic sheath Americans are known to us not only for inventing new types of guitars, but also strings. For example, the creation of steel strings in addition to a synthetic shell of bass strings. This means that the bottom layer is made of metal material, covered with synthetic elements. Such a successful selection is ideal for those guitarists who want to practice for a long time musical creativity on his acoustic guitar.
- Steel strings with semicircular or flat winding. Such strings are a type of strings with a monolithic steel base. When sliding your fingers along the string, there is no “whistle” characteristic of ordinary strings. They have a matte sound on the bass strings and a more sonorous sound on the first three, which are without winding.
Note:
- - on the frequency of winding turns: Once I bought a rather expensive set of phosphor bronze, which had a more frequent winding. As a result, I got a completely different sound - more dull, with bass and without my favorite clanging.
- - on the manufacturer: Choose strings that are more expensive and from well-known brands that have proven themselves in the market - the strings will last longer and you will get more pleasure from playing.
- If you are a beginner and do not particularly understand the choice of strings and do not see any fundamental differences in them, you should consult with the consultants in the store. They will be happy to help you choose exactly what suits your guitar best. Very often, beginning musicians mistakenly put strings on the guitar that are not typical for it, as a result of which, at best, you will simply get a low-quality sound, at worst, the guitar will fail.
- If you have a musical idol (it is possible that you have an analogue of his instrument), I advise you to find out which strings he plays on. Knowing his preferences, you can always find a lot useful information about the parameters of its strings and make your choice based on this knowledge. For each style of music you need to select your own set, and who, if not famous guitarists, know better than anyone what is needed for a good game.
In general, choosing strings is a very individual process: look at what companies your idols use, try playing with sets of different thicknesses and different manufacturers, because the most best experience- personal. Only after trying many options can you choose the best one for yourself.
P.S. After playing the guitar, run your finger along the bottom of the string, from the nut to the nut. You will see dirt that has accumulated there; it needs to be removed. Do this every time you finish playing - the strings will last you much longer. I do not recommend wiping them with a cloth that is not intended for caring for strings - the micro fibers that remain on the strings accumulate between the turns of the winding and interfere with the vibrations of the string, muffling the sound.
Good luck!
This article will give you necessary information O different types strings for acoustic and electric guitar. Next we will talk in detail about the thickness of the strings, the types of strings for acoustic guitar and electric guitars, about coated and uncoated strings, about nylon strings, flatwound and roundwound strings, about the materials from which strings are made and their effect on sound.
String thickness
Strings vary in size, and more specifically, in thickness. It is usually measured in thousandths of an inch. As a rule, the thickness of the strings in a set is indicated by the first string. Sometimes you can hear guitarists say something like: “I play ten.” This means they use a set of strings where the first string is 0.010 inches thick.
Acoustic guitars typically use strings ranging from 9 to 13 gauge. The most common are very light gauge strings, 10 gauge, and light gauge strings, 11 gauge. Thicker strings produce a richer, louder sound, but are more difficult to play. These will work well for you if you like your acoustic guitar to sound really tight and loud. Using thin strings will make playing easier, but you will sacrifice volume and fullness of sound.
Electric guitar string gauges range from 8 to 13 gauge. Thicker strings can be found, but they either come with flatwound or are made for baritone guitars. Most electric guitars are set to 9 or 10. For jazz and hard rock, thicker strings are used. Thick strings are also useful if you play in low tuning.
The thickness of the strings is indicated on the packaging
Acoustic guitar strings: bronze and phosphor bronze (Bronze, Phosphor Bronze)
Bronze strings are characterized by a more sonorous and bright sound compared to phosphor bronze. Their golden color is given by the alloy from which they are made: 80% copper and 20% tin. Bronze is softer than steel and also resists corrosion well, which is useful in humid climates.
Phosphor bronze strings have a soft and warm sound, unlike regular bronze. Many guitarists believe that this makes them better suited to fingerpicking. As for color, they have a red, copper tint. The composition of phosphorus bronze is similar to ordinary bronze, but it contains a small proportion of phosphorus. It prevents rapid oxidation of the metal. Approximate composition: 92% copper, 7.7% tin, 0.3% phosphorus.
Bronze (left) and phosphor bronze (right)
Electric guitar strings: nickel plated, pure nickel and steel (Nickel Plated, Pure Nickel, Stainless Steel)
Nickel plated strings are probably the most common type of electric guitar strings available today. The winding on their thick strings is made of nickel-plated steel, i.e. nickel plated steel. The steel from which the string is made has good magnetic properties and is ideal for magnetic pickups, while the nickel plating helps balance its bright sound. Nickel also makes the string smooth on your fingers and protects it from corrosion. It is softer than steel, so nickel and nickel strings will wear less on the frets than steel strings.
Pure nickel strings have a softer, warmer tone than steel and nickel-plated strings. If you play blues, jazz or classic rock, then you will truly appreciate the fat sound of pure nickel. Nickel resists corrosion very well and is well suited for magnetic pickups.
Steel strings have the brightest and most sonorous sound of all types of electric guitar strings. They also retain their sound over time because... Made of stainless steel, which resists corrosion well. Stainless steel actually feels different to the player than other strings. Some say they feel "dry" and are not as slippery as nickel. Steel is a fairly hard metal, so frets with these strings will wear out a little faster, but if you want bright, ringing sound, then it's worth it.
Nickel plated strings
Strings with and without polymer coating (Coated, Non-Coated)
Polymer-coated strings have a kind of film on the surface that prevents oxidation and corrosion of the string, and also prevents dirt from getting between the turns of the winding. This helps the string sound like new for a long time. Such strings are about 2 times more expensive than uncoated ones, but if you don’t want and don’t like to change strings often, then they will be worth the money. They retain a fresh, new sound for about 3 times longer than uncoated strings. These are best for you if your hands get sweaty, you play a lot, or you live in a climate with high humidity.
Uncoated strings are cheaper, but retain their original sound for a shorter period of time.
String with polymer coating (left) and without it (right)
Nylon strings
Nylon strings are designated and graded by tension, rather than by fractions of an inch like metal strings. There are 3 tension levels for them: medium (Normal), strong (Hard) and very strong (Extra-Hard). Medium tensions are fairly easy to play, but can feel too flexible if played loudly and quickly. Strong in tension nylon strings better suited for playing loud and fast music, but O A higher tension force may negatively affect the comfort of play. Strings with very high tension are needed to perform even faster and loud music. They cause more discomfort on the fingers when playing than other nylon strings.
There are two main ways to attach nylon strings to the bridge of a guitar: with balls and knots. Usually, if you look at a guitar with nylon strings, you will see knots in the fastenings. They require a little more work when changing strings, but they are more popular.
Nylon strings attached with balls have a small plastic or metal ball at the end, a reel, thanks to which you do not have to tie a knot to attach to the bridge. These strings are less popular and more difficult to find.
The strings are attached to the bridge of a classical guitar by knots
Fastening strings with balls
Round and flat winding strings
Round wound strings are what most of us see when we think of a regular guitar string. The winding usually has thicker three or four strings (the winding is around the steel cord) and on this type of strings, as the name suggests, it has a round shape in diameter. The sound of such strings is louder than that of flat wound strings.
Flatwound strings have a warmer, softer sound. This is why they are commonly used in jazz and some types of blues.
Their winding is, accordingly, flat, reminiscent of flattened wire. These strings are more durable because there are fewer crevices on their surface where finger dirt can get trapped.
Round winding string (top) and flat winding (bottom)
How to determine when it's time to change strings to new ones
There are three factors that can be used to determine whether strings need to be replaced: their sound, appearance and how they feel on your fingers when playing. Of course, the most important of these is the sound of the strings. If you think the strings sound quite good, then there is no need to change them. If you find that they sound hollow, unclear and dull, then it would be a good idea to replace them with new ones.
As for the feel of the strings with your fingers, good strings should be smooth and clean, without the need to change them. Strings that are dirty, rusty or dry to the touch should be replaced.
They should look shiny, as if glossy. Dull, stained, rusty strings also need to be replaced.
The strings wear off on the frets
How often should you change strings?
It depends on many things: how often you play, what climate you live in, how sweaty your hands are, and how you keep your strings clean can all affect the lifespan of your strings.
Some guitarists change their strings every week or even after every gig, while others play with the same ones for months. How often you play will determine how often you change strings.
How to extend the life of strings
There are several rules that will help you not to lose strings good sound for a long time. First, wash your hands every time you play the guitar. Thanks to this, less dirt from your hands will accumulate between the turns of the winding, and sweat will not corrode them.
Secondly, after playing, wipe the strings with a rag or a special polishing cloth for strings. These two things will help you reduce the cost of new strings.
For many, both beginners and fully professional guitarists, the process of choosing the best strings for their own guitar becomes a real problem. For your own money, you definitely want to get something of very high quality, durable, comfortable and good sounding. And in this material We will try to consider absolutely all aspects of selecting strings for various types of guitars, and will also tell you about the most popular brands and models, the choice of which is always a good decision.
Choosing the Right Guitar Strings
In order to find out which best guitar strings are right for you, you will have to experiment repeatedly. It all depends very much on style and preference, as different windings sound very different, and even the gauge of the string makes a difference. great importance. However, you should start your search with really worthy and popular models in order to immediately feel the maximum quality and be able to later compare it with products from other famous manufacturers, forming your own, unique taste.
What you should not pay attention to when choosing strings
Before choosing the best guitar strings, there are a number of parameters you should pay attention to. Not all of them may be important at one level or another of your game. If you are a beginner, then you should prioritize comfort and ease of play. This means that thinner strings with traditional windings without any special frills will suit you. It is important to understand that to extract a unique sound, for example, from thick silver strings on an acoustic, you need to have certain skills and master advanced techniques such as fingerstyle. Well, an uninitiated young musician with such strings will most likely encounter a number of difficulties that are unnecessary at this level.
Also, you should not chase cheapness, making deals with your conscience, purchasing relatively cheap strings from unknown Chinese manufacturers. All this will only lead to the fact that you yourself will be dissatisfied with the sound, and low-quality products will very soon require prompt replacement. It is worth remembering that strings are not an element that can be neglected and on which you can save money, because the most important thing in an instrument is the sound, and strings play one of the most important roles in its formation.
Best Strings for Acoustic Guitar
The acoustic guitar is an extremely popular and widespread instrument, and its sound largely depends on the correct selection of strings. And in the process of choosing them, you should rely on:
- row technical characteristics and features,
- your current skill level,
- affordable budget,
- preferred play style.
Ernie Ball Earthwood 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Strings
Why this model? For a ringing, clear and at the same time very warm and deep sound, characteristic of high-quality bronze winding.
Characteristics. Bronze braided thick strings on a steel core, wide variety of diameters available.
Advantages and disadvantages. Great sound that you will find very difficult to give up in the future. The downside is that it wears out quite quickly. With active play, replacement may be required within a few months.
Strings D "Addario 80/20 Bronze Acoustic
Why this model? For the characteristic rich sound achieved due to the bronze circular braid.
Characteristics. Round bronze braid, big choice various calibers.
Advantages and disadvantages. Classic acoustic sound ideal for a variety of playing styles. Among the minuses, it is worth highlighting the not very long service life. After 2-3 months, the strings will gradually begin to lose their properties.
Elixir NanoWeb Phosphor Bronze Acoustic strings
Why this model? For a warm and deep bronze sound, and impressive durability, which is achieved using proprietary manufacturing technologies.
Characteristics. Bronze wound strings with added phosphorus. A wide range of available gauges and a proprietary fluoropolymer protective coating that prevents any negative effects and does not have any negative effect on the strings in terms of sound.
Advantages and disadvantages. Amazing durability, soft sound and no need for complex maintenance. The disadvantages include a significantly higher cost, for which, however, you get strings that last 5-6 times longer than usual.
What strings to buy for an acoustic guitar?
Obviously, when choosing the best strings for an acoustic guitar, you need to start from such parameters as the thickness of the string, its winding and its type itself. For beginners, thinner and softer strings with a diameter of 0.010 inches with flat copper or bronze winding are perfect, but pros should take larger caliber models with round winding to get the most rich sound with good depth and maximum overtones.
Best Strings for Bass Guitar
Choosing the best strings for a bass guitar is a very responsible process, because they are not changed as often as on regular guitars, they are more expensive, and therefore the set you choose will become your faithful companion for quite a long time.
Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Bass Strings 50-105
Why this model? For its distinctive and well-recognized sound, chosen by thousands of professional bassists around the planet.
Characteristics. Round nickel-plated steel braided strings on a hexagonal steel core. Wide range of available diameters.
Advantages and disadvantages. Branded clear and ringing sound, high level comfort when playing. The disadvantages include the average service life and the need to care for the strings using special cleaning solutions at certain intervals.
Strings D"Addario Nickel Wound Bass 50-105
Why this model? For a classic, slightly vintage sound with characteristic accents.
Characteristics. Classic bass strings with round nickel-plated winding on a hexagonal steel core.
Advantages and disadvantages. High quality, excellent balanced sound and affordable price. The disadvantages include the average service life.
Elixir NanoWeb Bass Strings 45-105
Why this model? For amazing durability, excellent sound unaffected by protective coating and maximum playing comfort.
Characteristics. Strings with round nickel-plated braid on hexagonal steel cores, with a proprietary polymer protective coating made of fluoropolymers. Wide range of calibers available.
Advantages and disadvantages. Excellent protection against any impact, and a service life measured in years. The disadvantages include the high cost, which not every beginning musician can be prepared for.
What strings to buy for a bass guitar?
Be that as it may, the best bass strings are the ones that sound great for many months, even years, without having to change them too often. Of course, this is a matter of taste and skill, but it is better to immediately invest in models with a protective coating, forgetting about replacement for a long time. It is also worth emphasizing that the bass guitars themselves come in both 4-string and 5.6-string versions, and for each of these models you will have to look for specialized strings.
The best strings for an electric guitar
Best Strings for electric guitars combine high-quality deep sound, high durability and reliability. But at the same time, they necessarily have some kind of proprietary sound feature that distinguishes a particular model from many other options.
Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottom Strings
Why this model? For the unique sound achieved by combining super-thin bottom strings with thick top strings.
Characteristics. Thick strings with nickel-plated winding on a steel hexagonal core. Thin strings are made of high carbon steel, making them durable.
Advantages and disadvantages. Chic and varied sound, great for various styles of music and playing techniques. The disadvantages include relatively quick “aging” and the need to regularly care for the strings using special means.
Elixir NanoWeb strings
Why this model? For a pleasant, balanced sound and decent protection, which means versatility of use in all situations and circumstances.
Characteristics. Nickel-plated winding of strings on a hexagonal steel core. Thick strings have a protective fluoropolymer coating, while thin strings are coated with a special anti-corrosion compound.
Advantages and disadvantages. The highest level of durability, almost complete immunity to any negative influences. The disadvantages include the rather high cost and slightly muffled sound compared to unprotected strings.
Strings D "Addario Nickel Wound
Why this model? For beautiful, clear and balanced sound. It’s no wonder that this model is the most popular in the D’addario brand line, and is regularly chosen by famous professional guitarists around the world.
Characteristics. Nickel plated steel round braided strings around a hexagonal steel core. Wide range of possible calibers.
Advantages and disadvantages. Great sound and affordable price. The disadvantages include relatively short period of time strings of life, because in just a few months active play you may need replacement.
What strings to buy for an electric guitar?
Choose the best strings for electric guitar not that difficult. Many famous manufacturers will be happy to provide you with their own models, among which you can easily find something ideal for yourself. All that remains is to spend a little time and effort on the search itself.
Best Strings for Classical Guitar
Classical guitar strings are traditionally made from polymer materials, in some cases with the addition of some metal. However, it is interesting to note that 50-70 years ago such strings were created from animal tendons, soaked and seasoned in a certain way. Classical strings are very soft, and therefore they are most often recommended to be used in the learning process. However, classical and western guitar are actually two completely different instruments And it’s not just the strings that distinguish them.
With choice classical strings There are almost never any particular problems, since there are not many options available on the market, and the varieties presented vary greatly in price, so the choice is often made precisely on the basis of this parameter.
Strings D "Addario Classic Nylon Normal
Why this model? Due to the stronger and more sonorous type of nylon used, high-quality silver-plated braiding, which produces perfect sound with precise sound production.
Characteristics. Heavier rectified nylon, a wide range of available diameters, medium tension and silver-plated thick strings.
Advantages and disadvantages. Excellent value for money, high durability of the model. Among the minuses, it is worth highlighting the specific sound of the winding, which may not be to everyone’s liking, especially when playing at a certain rhythm. The most suitable option for experienced musicians.
Ernie Ball Earthwood Folk Nylon Classic Strings
Why this model? Because of the rich and deep sound achieved through the use of bronze winding with a small addition of copper. The model is a true classic, which many musicians have chosen for many years, without changing its bright and characteristic sound.
Characteristics. Thin strings and thick cores are made of nylon. Thick strings have a bronze winding. The model has many diameter options.
Advantages and disadvantages. It has a warm and deep sound, well suited for both beginners and pros. Among the disadvantages, it is worth highlighting the rather rapid wear and tear, due to the fact that bronze is a soft metal, quite susceptible to corrosion.
Strings D "Addario Classical Coated
Why this model? An excellent solution for those who do not want to change strings too often. Combines high-quality sound and a proprietary polymer coating that protects the string from any negative external factors over many months of active play.
Characteristics. Nylon strings with silver-plated braid and special EXP protective coating. The model has many diameters, to suit almost every taste.
Advantages and disadvantages. The product has the highest durability, will easily last 4-5 times longer than conventional strings and at the same time will delight you with the characteristic deep sound of individual notes. Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the higher cost and the fact that silver winding is not suitable for all styles and types of play.
What strings to buy for classical?
When choosing the best strings for a classical guitar, you should focus solely on your taste and financial capabilities. All the options presented are an excellent solution. Some are more suitable for beginners, have an affordable price, but will require regular adjustments, while others are designed for performances, and therefore will easily give you stability and rich sound, but will also cost accordingly.
It has always been an honor to be able to play the guitar. Even after learning a few chords, you can already play simple songs in the yard or near the fire to lift your mood and morale. But there are times when, due to carelessness or prolonged use, the strings on a guitar break. In order not to cut short the holiday, you should always have a spare set of strings with you. This is where it comes in main question: “How to choose strings for an acoustic guitar?”
Types of strings
For an acoustic guitar, you have the choice of installing nylon or metal strings (on the same electric guitar, you can only install metal strings). These are two opposing camps. There is still debate about which strings are best for an acoustic guitar. In fact, it all depends on the person. Acoustic guitar strings sound different. That is why there are such a huge number of them. There are many different sets that differ from each other in various parameters that affect the sound and quality of the game. Don't forget that, among other factors, the acoustic guitar itself also influences your playing. What strings are best for beginners?
Strings for Beginners
The first steps in mastering the guitar are always difficult. It is very important that from the very beginning a person enjoys playing the guitar, otherwise he will soon give up. Since the main element of a guitar is the strings, the approach to their selection should be in the first place. For beginners, nylon ones are best suited, since they have all the parameters useful to them.
Pros and cons of nylon strings
For beginners, nylon strings are best, as synthetic strings are much easier to play. Metal is a much harder material than synthetics, so it is more difficult to pluck your first chords on such strings. Synthetics, in turn, are a softer material, so learning to play on them will be many times easier.
For untrained fingers, the first loads will be quite large, so you need to do everything possible to reduce the load on them. In addition, synthetics are not so harmful to the skin: although at first it will be painful to clamp the frets, but then you will quickly get used to it.
But everything is not as simple as it seems. Synthetic is a soft material, which is why it is susceptible to deformation. Because of this property, the acoustics need to be constantly adjusted as the strings stretch. They are also less durable, so you should be careful and try not to tear them.
Nylon on a guitar does not sound as loud as metal. Its sound is more subdued, but soft. Therefore, when playing forte, you need to put in more effort.
Pros and cons of metal strings
Metal strings are made of a stronger material, which gives them such strength. They are more durable and unpretentious to other conditions. They also don't deform as much. This makes it possible to keep them tight (no need to adjust them every time). The best strings for an acoustic guitar are metal. They are rightfully considered as such, because their sound is more ringing and loud.
But they have a number of disadvantages. Due to their strength, metal strings are made thinner. Especially for beginners, this results in thick calluses on the left hand. If you re-exercise out of a spiritual impulse, your fingers may bleed, and these are not just words. That is why it is important for yourself to choose a norm, several hours a day, in order to avoid overwork and bloody blisters. In addition, pressing chords will be much more difficult than with synthetics, since metal is a harder material. Here you need to use all your strength to make a sound.
Which strings to choose
So what are the best strings for an acoustic guitar? Well, for this it is worth taking into account all the factors. If a person is just starting to study music, then it is better to use nylon strings, since they are the easiest to learn; if you have experience, then metal strings, because they have a more beautiful sound.
How to change strings on an acoustic guitar
If suddenly the purchased guitar turned out to come with a set metal strings, but they needed nylon ones, no problem. The question of how to change strings on an acoustic guitar is resolved very quickly.
The first step is to buy a new set of strings. They are sold anywhere music store, there are still plenty of them on the Internet. After that, all that remains is to remove the old ones and attach the new ones.
Old strings need to be removed starting from the pegs (those things that are attached to the headstock). By reducing the tension, you can easily untangle them with your fingers and remove them from the peg. Then simply untie the knot on the bridge (the base on which the strings are attached near right hand). Then, having done the reverse procedure, new strings are put on, starting from the lower bridge and ending with the pegs.
Valuable advice: it is best to change strings for an acoustic guitar not from top to bottom, but from the sides. That is, first the sixth and first strings are put on, then the fifth and second, and only then the fourth and third. The headstock is made so that pairs of pegs hold the strings in exactly that order. The farthest pair of pegs is responsible for the first and sixth. Same with the middle and third pair of pegs.
In fact, there is nothing complicated here, you just need to practice a little.
Best Strings
You always want to have something of very high quality and reliability. The same applies to strings. As a rule, the strings for an acoustic guitar installed when purchasing it are not of high quality. This is why it is recommended to change the strings after purchasing an instrument. The best option there will be a famous brand dedicated to guitars, Fender. He collected all the best in himself. This pleasure costs more than other strings, but it's worth it.
On any music forum, the same topic is always created. Every new guitarist asks us the same question. And every young musician always faces the same problem - choosing strings for his brand new acoustic guitar. And, indeed, today it’s easier to decide on a guitar than on strings! And everyone around just advises you to try, figure it out and choose for yourself best option. But what about a beginner who is faced with such a problem for the first time?!
We would like to lend a helping hand to aspiring guitarists and tell a little about various types strings and their brands. And although the choice of strings really depends on the preferences of the musician, we will still share with you our personal experience and our opinion about certain manufacturers. Perhaps this will answer not only some of your questions, but also help you decide what you need.
Material bases
The key qualities of strings: sound, durability and playability depend on the material from which they are made. So the first thing you have to decide on is the winding material of your future strings. Go!
Variety of brands
There is no shortage of different brands of strings for acoustic guitars today. And it is not surprising that it is difficult for any beginning guitarist to make an independent choice for the first time. So let's look at the most famous ones modern brands Let’s take a little more detail and see what experienced people say about them.
- Dean Markley. Negative reviews I haven't heard of these strings yet - they sound great and are reasonably priced. Their only drawback is their service life.
- ErnieBall. Another string option that perfectly combines quality and price. They last a long time, sound good, have a pleasant tactile sensation, and they are not very expensive. In a word, also a good start!
- Olympia. Another standard string option that combines an affordable price, good sound and reliability.
- Rotosound. The strings of this brand can probably be described as follows: just strings. They do not have any outstanding qualities, nor do they have any particularly negative traits. Strings and everything.
So we went through all the famous manufacturers of strings for acoustic guitars and their products. And what conclusion can be drawn from all this?! Obviously, many strings from many brands represent a specific accessory, the choice of which is still worth growing up and trying a lot. So if you are purchasing replacement strings for the first time and are not yet in the mood for experiments, our advice to you is to take something simpler, such as D’Addario, La’Bella, Olympia or GHS of medium hardness. They will produce a fairly clear sound and will not create discomfort during the game.
As for the rest, the forums don’t lie – throughout your entire creative activity you will have to try more than one set of strings and give own assessment many manufacturers before you find the perfect option!
