When learning the guitar, choice of strings always comes up as a question. Beginners see the wide selection offered in most music stores and don’t know what to pick.
Gauge of strings
In a nutshell, heavier strings mean more tension, harder on the fingers, and create a louder sound. But, there is more to the story than just that. You need to know what is suited to your particular guitar.
First of all, you need to know the proper gauge of strings for your guitar. Most acoustic guitars will require a medium or medium light gauge, meaning the first string may be a “12″ or “11,” whereas electric guitars choose around “9.”
Find out what gauge strings are already on the guitar before you change them. Guitars are set up to handle a certain tension. If you take your guitar in to your local music store, they can help you find the right gauge. Changing the gauge of strings on your guitar, without making adjustments, is not recommended. You could potentially harm your guitar or at least make it less playable.
Nylon strings versus steel strings
A classic guitar is designed for nylon strings. You can tell a classic guitar by it’s smaller body, lack of pick guard, design around the sound hole and the strings tied at the bridge. The tuning keys on the head, stick out the back, and the strings are wound around little barrels.
An acoustic steel string guitar has a pick guard, the body is generally bigger and the strings have little balls on the end. The bridge, either has little pegs that push the string ends into the guitar, or it has a tail piece that the strings slip through. The tuning keys on the head, stick out the side of the head, and have little posts that the strings are wound around.
Each guitar is built slightly different, and meant for the strings it was designed for. Switching either of these is very bad practice. It won’t sound good and, will eventually, cause damage to the guitar.
Different sounds
Strings made of different metals have different characteristics. You really need to try them out yourself and decide what you like. You will find most of the difference being in the bass strings. The first two strings will sound pretty well the same with every set.
Choices are bronze, nickel, and silver. I have found that the bronze have a brighter sound. You really need to experiment. I would suggest, keeping the cover to the strings in your guitar case, so that when you try your next set, if you liked the previous ones better, you’ll remember which ones they were. It can be frustrating to find some strings you decide you like best and can’t remember which ones they were.
Easy on the fingers
Some people put nylon strings on a steel guitar for the sake of their fingers. Bad practice, I wouldn’t recommend it. However, I do have a solution. There is a type of string called “slinky folk”, that has silver over nylon. They are a bit easier on the fingers. One drawback is that they don’t keep their sound too long.
Coated strings
There are many coated strings available now. They tend to be more expensive than the regular strings, however, the coating causes them to retain their sound longer and they can be a great choice for students. In the end, they are more economical because they do outlast the others.
Most brands are good
I find that most brands are good. If you are looking for a real deal, sometimes music stores will buy strings in bulk, package them, put their name on, and sell them cheap as a promotion. It can be a good deal.
As a rule, I just don’t buy the cheapest. I have found that they are usually inferior. But, once you get into the main brands, they are all good.
Most music store staff are quite knowledgeable and very helpful. Just ask them, “what are the most popular brands?” and then make a choice.
So, there you go. Now you know something about choosing strings for your guitar. As long as you choose the right gauge and proper strings, (nylon or steel) it’s hard to go wrong. Good luck with your guitar.
Gail Karen (G.K.) Eckert is a vocalist, musician, songwriter, author and teacher. She founded Musikhaus Studio of Creativity in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada in 1987.
Get a free copy of her new e book Be Creative – a step-by-step guide to a More Creative Way of Life.
She has written numerous articles on all aspects of the music business. Find out more about learning to be a pro.
|
|
Omas Phoenix Gold, Silver & Bronze Fountain Pen Set $30,000.00 |
|
|
Cast Bronze Bear Family Statues Set FREE SHIPPING $22,730.00 |
|
|
Chinese royal Bronze 12 Zodiac animal head Statue Set $13,680.00 |
|
|
BRONZE Lifesize Wild Mustang Horse Set Sculpture Statue $13,500.00 |
|
|
64″Bronze cloisonne Three Saints of the West Buddha Set $12,888.00 |
|
|
Cast Bronze Deer Family Statues Set FREE SHIPPING $12,650.00 |
|
|
19th Century Fine 3 Piece Bronze Sevres Clock Set $12,500.00 |
|
|
1.2M”Large Tibet bronze three lotus flower buddha a set $9,995.00 |
|
|
SEVRES 19 C. 3 PIECE LARGE BRONZE/ PORCELAIN CLOCK SET $9,900.00 |
|
|
Cast Bronze Boy w/ Dog Statue Set FREE SHIPPING $8,300.00 |
|
|
Set 4 Antique Silvered Bronze Louis XVI Torch Sconces $7,800.00 |
|
|
20″Bronze Cloisonne 24K Gold 3 Lucky God Immortals Set $6,999.00 |
|
|
A SETS BRONZE CLOISONNE 24K GOLD “FU LU SHOU” STATUES $6,889.00 |
|
|
Set of 4 antique Bronze sliding french doors – elevator $6,500.00 |
|
|
Set of 4 antique Bronze sliding french doors – elevator $6,500.00 |
|
|
Huge Life size Bronze Garden Statue set of 3 Flamingos $6,400.00 |
|
|
CHARRIOL CELTIQUE 18K YG SET DIAMOND BRONZE PVD CABLE $6,000.00 |
|
|
52″Huge Bronze Three Saints of the West Buddha Set Folk $5,990.00 |
|
|
Sydney Olympic 2000 Gold Silver & Bronze Coin set $5,293.08 |
|
|
27″Chinese Bronze Gilt Statue 4 Great Heavenly King Set $4,960.00 |
|
|
Aug Moreau French Bronze Lady w/ Cherub Clock Set $4,800.00 |
|
|
ANTIQUE 19C TIFFANY CLOCK VASE URN SET BRONZE MARBLE $4,499.00 |
|
|
Immemorial Historic Old Bronze Carved Bell Set /7 piece $4,200.00 |
|
|
ANTIQUE SET OF BRONZE CHURCH LIGHTS – CHALICE – STATUES $4,200.00 |
|
|
Gilt Bronze & Marble Figural Clock set Charles X c.1840 $3,500.00 |
|
|
CRYSTAL & BRONZE LIQUER SET by CRISTEL ET BRONZE FRANCE $3,250.00 |
|
|
CRYSTAL LIQUER & BRONZE SET by CRISTAL et BRONZE FRANCE $3,250.00 |
|
|
Antique Louis XV style Bronze Rococo Fireplace Set $3,200.00 |
|
|
Breathtaking and Exclusive Bronze Clock Set !! $3,150.00 |
|
|
PRESIDENTIAL BRONZES 1977 FRANKLIN MINT PRESIDENTS SET $3,000.00 |
|
|
Passage Lever Set, Bronze $33.51 Passage Lever Set, Bronze |
|
|
Privacy Lever Set, Bronze $35.73 Privacy Lever Set, Bronze |
|
|
Ferguson 8-pc CW Set – Bronze $75.47 Ferguson 8-pc CW Set – Bronze |
|
|
Ghs Strings S325 Set Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings (light Gauge) $6.45 GHS STRINGS S325 SET Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings (Light Gauge) |
|
|
Minuteman VW-22Z Garland Collection – Tool Set – Powder Coated Roman Bronze $194.56 Drape your fireplace in garlands of blooming flowers and leaf vines with the Garland Tool Set. Handmade in Europe using old world forging methods the Garland Tool Set reflects the time honored arts tradition of the 18th Century. The Garland Tool Set includes a shovel broom poker and log tongs gathered in a lovely floral stand. Finished in long wearing Roman Bronze Powdercoat the Garland Tool Set features a solid steel build. Measures 12 Wide x 8 Deep x 32 High. |
|
|
Bronze Swarovski Pearls Pendant & Stud Earrings Sarkling Simulated Diamond Set $17.25 Pearls Pendant and earrings Jewelry Set Genuine Swarovski Bronze 10mm Pearls surround with simulated diamond Pendant and earrings. Affordable Bridal Bridemaids Wedding Jewelry this is Special Color for Brides or Bridemaides. Custom Handcrafted Jewelry Necklace Set. Each piece of jewelry is timeless and made with the finest Swarovski Pearls quality genuine Pearls and beautiful Swarovski Material Used: 10mm Swarovski Bronze Pearls with good rhodium silver chain Necklace Length: measures 15 1/2 inches and extended 2 inches with lobster clasp for adjustments Earrings: Genuine Swarovski Bronze Pearls Stud 10mm surrounded with sparkling simulated diamond Guarantee: 100% Satisfaction for Material & Workmanship used in making this Jewelry We can make matching Bracelet and/or CUSTOMIZE the Jewelry per your style size. color choices |
|
|
Do it Best Imp Blnd-Y Oil-Rubbed Bronze Set $28.71 Oval design. Metal curtain rod set. Thickness 0.8mm rod. Adjustable. 2 brackets and 2 finials included in each set. Clear box package. Oil-rubbed bronze finish. Refer to model No. 601640 for oval design drapery hold backs and model No. 630381 for black clip rings. No. 601575: Extends 28” x 48” No. 601594: Extends 48” x 86” |
|
|
Minuteman WR-11Z Manor House Tool Set – Powder Coated Roman Bronze $438.35 Make a stately impression around your hearth with a tool set that demands respect and recognition. Hand forged of wrought iron using old world forging methods the Manor House Tool Set is constructed of a 3-legged base that towers into an attractive urn at the peak. Four branches spread out toward the top of the stand to provide individual uncluttered hanging space for a broom shovel poker and log tongs. Each piece is accented with an urn handle for a comfortable grip and decorative twist. Finished in vintage Roman Bronze Powdercoat the Manor House Tool Set is designed for very large fireplaces measuring 52 High. Each tool measures 40 Long. |
|
|
Minuteman WR-36Z Arts and Crafts Tool Set – Powder Coated Roman Bronze $113.19 Keep your fireplace clean and tidy with a Tool Set that offers dependable strength and unique craftsmanship. The Arts and Crafts Tool Set features an enclosed oval top with square window cut-outs and an enclosed oval base. On each side of the stand a single hook is placed for convenient hanging for a broom shovel poker and log tongs all with wide handles for a comfortable grip and a small hole at the top to hang each tool in its provided spot. The Arts and Crafts Tool Set features a vintage Roman Bronze Powdercoat finish and Measures 9 Wide x 33 1/2 High. |
|
|
Bronze Bow $5.99 Set in Galilee in the time of Jesus, this story tells of a young Jewish rebel who is won over to the gentle teachings of Jesus. A Newbery Medal Book. |
|
|
Belisi Singapore Muse Bronze Necktie $37.5 East meets West in this luxury silk tie featuring delicate brown flowers set against a bronze background. Like all Belisi ties, the Singapore Muse Bronze tie is made with more silk per inch than standard ties for a fuller necktie knot the hallmark of true luxury silk neckties. |
|
|
The Bronze Age Computer Disc $17.63 When author Alan Butler discovered a 15-centimeter clay disc in a museum in Crete, he set out to unravel the mystery of the spiral by hieroglyphs inscribed on each side. The discovery of this Phaistos Disc crystallized Butlers previous convictions that Bronze Age peoples in Europe had been excellent mathematicians and astronomers. |
|
|
Combo Tri Pearls Color Bronze Ivory Brown Necklace Set Custom Your Wedding Prom Jewelry Set $36 Beautifully feminine Jewelry in Genuine Swarovski Bronze Ivory and Brown Pearls accented in beautiful Necklace Sleek and dainty invisible chain with dangling earrings and double stranded bracelet Handmade Exquisite Set! All A Grade and Genuine Material are used to make this Choker Necklace Set this dramatically elegant Necklace adds a touch of the exotic and gorgeous and lustrous piece Material Used: Genuine Swarovski Bronze Pearls Ivory and Brown 7mm Pearls accented beautiful invisible Necklace Necklace Length: 16 inches with 1 inch extension Earrings: Silver chain Dangling with Genuine Swarovski 4mm Bronze and brown Pearls with 8mm ivory Pearls measures 1 1/4 inches long Bracelet: Double Stranded Bracelet Genuine Swarovski Bronze Ivory and Brown 7mm Pearls measures 7 1/4 inches long Guarantee: 100% Satisfaction for Material & Workmanship used in making this Jewelry We can CUSTOMIZE the jewelry per your style color choices |
|
|
Southern Enterprises BE3450 Bronze Scroll 3pc Bath Set $129.99 This 3 piece bath set is perfect for fixing your bathroom needs in one stop. The bronze scroll style is attractive in any bathroom. Complete with Etagere, wall shelf and floor shelf, this bath set provides ample storage while keeping everything at arms reach. Each piece has multiple fixed wire shelves and sturdy construction. Solve all your bathroom organization needs with this convenient all-in-one collection. Etagere Dimensions: 23" x 14" x 68" tall Floor Shelf Dimensions: 16.5" x 10" x 35" tall Wall Shelf Dimensions: 16.5" x 7" x 20" tall |
|
|
Luichiny Singled Out (Women’s) – Brown/Bronze Patent $84.95 Edgy and fashionable platform sandal that is set off with croc printed t strap. Has an adjustable strap for a more secure fit. Available Colors: Black/Pewter Patent, Brown/Bronze Patent. |
|
|
Bronze Age of Southeast Asia $75 The Bronze Age of Southeast Asia has been described as an enigma and a challenge. Some specialists have claimed that the earliest bronze working in the world occurred here, suggesting a cultural sequence that fails to fit a world-wide pattern. Others see it as distinct from parallel developments in other parts of the world. This book is the first comprehensive study of the period, placed within its broader regional context. Charles Higham suggests that the adoption of metallurgy followed a period of agricultural expansion into Southeast Asia, originating in the rice growing cultures of the Yangzi Valley. The first acquaintance with copper and tin smelting may have taken place as a result of growing exchange between the late neolithic inhabitants of Southeast Asia and the Shang and Zhou states of the Central Plains of China. The latter provided exotic bronzes, the former adopted the new technology and adapted it to their own needs. However, the chronology remains unclear, and local origins remain a viable alternative hypothesis. When set in a broader comparative framework, the early development of Bronze Age societies in Southeast Asia is found to have more similarities than differences with those in Iberia, the Aegean, the near East and Chinese nuclear area. The author traces the development of Bronze Age cultures into the Iron Age, identifying regionality and innovation. Along the northern borders of Southeast Asia, chiefdoms developed within the context of Chinese Imperial expansion. To the south, societies entered into a growing exchange network which incorporated India and the Roman Empire. Higham shows how these distinct regional developments contributed to the emergence ofSoutheast Asian states. The Bronze Age of Southeast Asia provides a systematic and regional presentation of the current evidence. Using a thematic approach, Charles Higham provides an up-to-date account of the Southeast Asian and Chinese Bronze Ages, documenting evidence site by site. This is the first time these regions have been integrated in research to provide an understanding of how and why their distinct cultures developed. |
|
|
Customized Bridal Jewelry Bronze Pearls w/ Smoked Topaz Swarovski Crystals Complete Set Necklace Ear $35 Beautifully feminine Jewelry in Genuine Swarovski Bronze Pearls And Smoked Topaz Crystals accented in beautiful Necklace Sleek and dainty Chain with dangling earrings and double stranded bracelet Handmade Exquisite Set! All A Grade and Genuine Material are used to make this Choker Necklace Set this dramatically elegant Necklace adds a touch of the exotic and gorgeous and lustrous piece Material Used: Genuine Swarovski Bronze Pearls 7mm and Smoked Topaz Crystals 4mm Bicone accented beautiful Necklace Length: 17 inches with 1 inch extension Earrings: Dangling with Genuine Swarovski Bronze Pearls and Smoked Crystals and measures 1 inch long Bracelet: Double Stranded Bracelet Genuine Swarovski Bronze Pearls and Smoked Crystals and measures 7 inches long Guarantee: 100% Satisfaction for Material & Workmanship used in making this Jewelry We can CUSTOMIZE the jewelry per your style color choices |
|
|
Bronze Pearls Smoked Topaz Swarovski Crystals Pearls Jewelry Set $24.5 Contemporary Jewelry Genuine Crystals Pearls Bronze Pearls and Smoked Topaz Crystals accented in beautiful Necklace and sterling silver earrings this beautiful Necklace Sets boasts the purity and gorgeous jewelry. Authentic Swarovski Guaranteed Swarovski Crystals Pearls and Sterling Silver Earrings Handcrafted Custom Jewelry Material Used: Genuine Swarovski Smoked Topaz Crystals 4mm and Bronze Pearls 6mm Necklace Necklace Length: measures 16 inches long with 2 inches extension and lobster clasp for adjustments Earrings: Genuine Sterling Silver 92.5 hook with 6mm Swarovski Rose Pink Pearls and Swarovski Rose Pink Crystals measures 1 1/2 inches Guarantee: 100% Satisfaction for Material & Workmanship used in making this Jewelry We can make matching Bracelet and/or CUSTOMIZE the Jewelry per your style color choices |
|
|
Heavy Duty – Oil Rubbed Bronze Roller Shower Curtain Rings – Set of 12 $7.99 Our Heavy Duty Roller Shower Curtain Rings in Oil Rubbed Bronze are made of Solid Brass. They are finished in Oil Rubbed Bronze with a durable laquer finish for a corrosion free shower ring. Designed to fit 1″ and 3/4″ diameter shower rods these curtain rings easily roll across the shower rod…. |
|
|
Anolon Advanced Bronze 10-Inch and 12-Inch Open Skillets $42.90 Heat up any stovetop with performance and style. Anolon’s dynamic duo of skillets is crafted in bronze-hued, hard-anodized aluminum and finished with an exclusive nonstick coating for healthier meal preparation done with sumptuous style. Limited lifetime warranty…. |
|
|
Umbra Cadet Double Bracket, Curtain Rod Bracket, Designed by Thea Yuzyk, Set of 2 Umbra is the worldwide leader in casual, contemporary and affordable design for the home. They also have a strong commitment to making a positive and sustainable contribution to the realm of fiscal, social and environmental responsibility. All of these elements come together with the Cadet Double Bracket Curtain Rod Bracket, designed by Thea Yuzyk. This stylish and useful bracket will keep your cu… |
|
|
Classical Blast $3.95 … |
|
|
Russian Fantasy $10.98 … |
|
|
Mirrors: The Bronze Anthology $14.14 … |
|
|
Agatha Christie’s Poirot Bronze Box Set [VHS] $28.95 … |
|
|
Lovejoy – The Complete Season 3 $47.51 Movie DVD… |
|
|
The Great Fox War Movies (Patton – Special Edition / The Longest Day / Tora! Tora! Tora! – Special Edition) $44.99 Studio: Tcfhe Release Date: 12/05/2006… |
|
|
French Fried Vacation (Boxset) ( Les Bronzés ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.2 Import - France ] $36.99 France released, PAL/Region 2 DVD: it WILL NOT play on standard US DVD player. You need multi-region PAL/NTSC DVD player to view it in USA/Canada: LANGUAGES: English ( Mono ), French ( Mono ), WIDESCREEN, SPECIAL FEATURES: 2-DVD Set, Box Set, Collectors Edition, Filmographies, Interactive Menu, Music Video, Photo Gallery, SYNOPSIS: Holidaymakers arriving in a Club Med camp on the Ivory Coas… |