Hi Normans,
I've got a second hand acoustic guitar and want to change the strings, but I'm a bit overwhelmed by all the choice - do I need Light or Extra Light for example, and does it matter what brand, Martin, Ernie Ball etc?
Thanks in advance for any advice you can give me.
Jeff
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Hi Jeff,
Thanks for your email.
Asking what strings you need is a bit like asking what beer to drink - everybody will have their own opinion on what's best and what isn't. There's no exact science I'm afraid, but you can narrow the choice of Heavy, Medium and Light down with few factors which I've detailed below.
The Heavy, Medium and Light wording refers to the string gauge - essentially, how thick the strings are. Some makes will give you the measurements of all of the strings, but strings are commonly measured by the thinnest - so you'll hear other guitarists say things like "9 gauge" or "I'm playing 10s at the minute...". Obviously the thicker the string, the fuller the sound but the harder they are to bend and manipulate. I generally say that thicker strings are more suited to strumming and the thinner strings (extra lights especially) are more suited to solo or finger moving work.
In terms of what brand, you will eventually after a few string changes find one you like. I was recommended Ernie Ball by a local guitarist and never looked back. A friend at University swore by Martin strings and a colleague here at Normans uses Rotosound. That really does come down to personal preference - try a couple and see how you get on!
You can see our full range of guitar strings here.