Strings question [HELP!]

[WesDutchMaster]

What kind of strings do you guys and some famous players use?

Right now I put on a set of Elixir Nanoweb custom lights [.011-.052] after using Elixir Polyweb Extra Lights [.010-.047]. I think maybe I liked the extralights a little better although I'm not sure.

Can anyone explain the sound/playing difference between polyweb and nanoweb? And between custom lights and extra lights etc?What are known pros and cons for using lighter strings over heavier ones and vice versa.

I know it differs per person and playing style [mine is jazz, percussivy, melodic] so don't give me that shit.:p I would love some real/personal answers.

[cutigerbtf]

I went with the elixir nanoweb custom lights for a while- i just recently switched to medium gauge- which i like better- gives me a fuller sound- i like to play loud [but I only play to myself?]

anyway- for the difference in nanoweb/polyweb- the physical difference can be read off the back of the box :) as for audio- not sure.

dave plays d'adarrios or something- a buddy of mine just bought them- and was thuroughly pleased.

he may not play d'adarrios- but I read somewhere in this website that he does.

[cj4258]

Light strings = lower action (less tension on the neck to tip over), easier bends, give a little easier under tension, etc. Overall better for your fingers and good for more technial playing styles (i. e. jazz and "percussivy" sounds :p)

Heavy strings = bigger sound in most cases, last longer, good for a strong rhythm guitar sound.

Medium strings = best of both worlds.

I'm a light string lover because I never stick to one genre of music and I write the weirdest stuff you'll ever hear. I just like to experiment, and light strings make it easier to accomplish.

If I can get them, I'll get a set of extra/custom lights. They just rock my world.

Hope that helps, Wes. :D

[soups41]

I play Martin SP Phosphor/Bronze Mediums or D'Addario Medium Phospho/Bronze mediums. Light strings dig into my fingers, and Martins are not braced heavy enough for heavy strings. Most acoustic guitars aren't :)

I love my D'Addarios

[DaveMatthewsRec]

i was thinking about trying D'addarios, but do they have the same sliding as elixirs? that soft easy sliding?

[Mathers420]

Originally posted by DaveMatthewsRec
i was thinking about trying D'addarios, but do they have the same sliding as elixirs? that soft easy sliding?

the EXPs do, I am currently using D'addarios EXP Lights and I love them

I tried the elixers but I find the EXPs have a much better sound, they aren't as slippery but still slide good. I think I saw somewhere that is what dave uses, but that certainly isn't why I use them

I tried mediums and went back to lights, i find them more comfortable

[WesDutchMaster]

thanks guys!

cj4258: so you extra lights are better for Jazzy things? Hmm another person told me heavier strings are better for jazz because they sound warmer?

[cj4258]

Originally posted by WesDutchMaster
so you extra lights are better for Jazzy things? Hmm another person told me heavier strings are better for jazz because they sound warmer?

It's arguable.

To start, flatwounds are the warmest. You'll see hardcore jazzers using flatwounds for their tone and warmth.

Light strings are used for more technical playing, whether jazz or not. I'd say heavier strings for a jazzer would be for more chordal playing, but I could be wrong.

When you boil it all down, it comes to personal preference. I like light strings because I can be technical, and others don't because of comfort (like Chris). Just experiment a little and you'll find your strings.

[WesDutchMaster]

I hate experimenting! Don't give me that crap! I want instant happiness! now!

;)

[nonewdirections]

i have tried nano and polyweb elixir lights, and i think i prefer the polyweb. they just seemed a little nicer to me, it's totally subjective though. i think i like the sound more, but it's hard to pick between them. i know the polywebs just feel better to me though. i play mostly dave matthews stuff, and i'm fairly new to guitar, but hopefully that gives you some perspective on it.

[groovemaster88]

hey dude

i myself prefer to use the D'addario EJ16... they seem to give the best feel. They are also oil resistant, and i have only had to change them 2 times in about 1 1/2 years. I myself play a range of stuff, but most of it is jazzy/ straight edge acoustic. That's my recommendation.