|
Guitar Strings
When purchasing new guitar strings, pricier
strings generally sound and feel better and
last longer; however, this is not always
the case. To get the right strings, consider
the material, sound, feeling, durability,
and size you’re looking for, and also how
much money you’re willing to spend. Also,
remember that strings break unpredictably,
so be sure to invest in some spare strings.
Material
Steel strings have a bright and metallic
sound, and are sometimes wound in order to
lower their pitch. Nylon gives a softer,less
piercing sound. Silk strings are often a
combination of silk and steel, giving you
much more flexibility than just steel strings.
They do, however, have a much shorter useable
playing life. Less common types of strings
are made from bronze or nickel, which sound
and play similarly to steel strings.
Size
Strings come in different sizes, with the
largest gauges generally reserved for bass
guitars, then acoustics and then electrics.
Different gauged strings are designed for
different positions (1st string, 2nd string,
etc.), different guitar types (basses, acoustics,
electrics, etc.), and different materials
(silk vs. nylon vs. steel). They aren't interchangeable:
using the wrong sized string will sound wrong
and could break the nut on your guitar. If
you are unsure, there are plenty of online
stores who will advise you.
Sound
Sound varies with the type, size, and manufacturer
of the strings. Finding the sound you like
best will require some experimentation, but
most sites offer at least a small description
of the type of sound you can expect from
each. For instance, you will find that Elixir
strings have a softer sound than the sharper
Fender Bullets.
Durability
More durable and longer lasting strings are
generally the more expensive ones, but buying
premium isn't your only option for longer
lasting strings. You can also invest in a
string coater. String coaters are special
polymer liquids designed to prolong string
life by lubricating them and creating a microscopic
barrier to prevent corrosion, all while being
unnoticeable both in feel and sound. |
|
|
