String gauges

[MattTX_24]

I am probably going to give more than you asked but it is a good topic for other beginners who will read this.

For myself, I’ve been using D’Addario “Hybrid Light.” The strings are 13, 17, 25, 32, 42, 53. I’ve gravitated toward the middle-ground of string gauges. I’m afraid of going too heavy as they are hard on the fingers and they put more stress on my guitar. These strings are coated Phosphor Bronze. I like the feel of these over uncoated as my fingers slide around a little easier. However, I just threw on some 80/20 uncoated strings from Stringjoy and, although I initially didn’t like the feel, I am getting used to them.

Honestly, I don’t know if the tone you’d sacrifice would be THAT noticeable if you bring the gauge down just slightly. Depends on how much of a musical ear you have. You might notice more from a change in going from 80/20 to phosphor bronze than just switching string gauge slightly.

They sell a lot of sets where you can have certain “medium” strings combined with other “light” strings in the same set. Stringjoy allows
you to customize as well. This might allow you to step down just slightly each time you want to experiment without having large sways in string size changes.

I’ve always thought that beginners should always start with lighter strings. Once you’ve progressed to a point where you can handle a larger gauge, then it simply becomes personal preference (but I encourage a lot of experimentation).

I’m a big fan of trying a wide range of string brands/gauges/etc. I think our tastes constantly evolve. I’ve tried new strings and guitar picks that I initially didn’t like, only to end up liking them after I’ve played with them for a week or two.

I bet if you ask 10 people, you’ll get 10 different responses on what types of strings they use (gauge/brand/coated vs uncoated/etc).

One other note, the medium/heavy gauges will put more tension on your guitar. Most well-built guitars are built for it, but if you have an older model, it might be better to stick with lighter gauges which will put less stress on your instrument.

Not sure if I answered your question, but if I had to summarize, I’d say go experiment with all kinds of string types. Even revisit ones you may have dismissed a long time ago (same with guitar pick sizes/types). Sometimes our tastes evolve.

[Skyman911]

I would say to experiment to see what you like. Different playing styles can sometimes dictate the string gauges. Heavy strummers may want heavier strings due to lighter strings buzzing when played hard. Also the size of the guitar can also dictate what strings go on the instrument. Large dreadnought’s usually have medium to heavy strings, where smaller bodied guitars usually have medium to light gauge strings. I have my Martin D-28 strung with lights instead of the mediums it came with. I don’t feel like I sacrificed any tone. My 00-28 and 000-18 are also strung with lights.

Also keep in mind the string gauge can also affect your action. For example, if you had your guitar setup with medium strings, and then change to lights, there will be slightly more spacing between the string and the fret, so your action may be slightly higher.

[jorgemac]

I use mostly .12’s with heavy bass strings.

I do use .13’s if I want a heavier tone but mostly drop the strings down a note

E B G D A E Treble to Bass strings

becomes tuned down to D A F C G D or like, Stevie Ray Vaughn, D# A# F# C# G# D#, which fits my voice better.