Telecaster Guitar Forum - View Single Post

Lance · May 20th, 2008, 07:28 AM

Bassman,
I'd try to narrow things down a bit. If you have a gauge you mostly like with that guitar, get a set of nickel and a set of nickel plated steel. Those are the two main categories (there's also coated but those won't be bright). See which works better and then go to the next step....maybe deciding on a regular gauge set or one with a heavy bottom. Then, maybe try a couple of brands in that spec. You'll find slight differences in bendability between brands.

I know this sounds frustrating but you really do need to try some yourself. What works for someone else may not work for you. There's no reason to take strings off after testing them. Look at this as a long-term project. Get a few sets, play them for a couple of weeks each....make note of the ones that seem better. After a few months, you'll have a good idea.

Personally, I'm a GHS Boomers guy. I get a few different gauges when I buy for my different guitars. It makes it easy and I know what to expect. My gauges are 9, 10, 10.5, and 11....and I also like a set of heavy bottoms on my NOS.

BTW - where are you in VA? There's a few of us here.

L-

May 20th, 2008, 07:28 AM	#5 (permalink)
Lance Friend of Leo's Join Date: Mar 2003 Posts: 2,162	Bassman, I'd try to narrow things down a bit. If you have a gauge you mostly like with that guitar, get a set of nickel and a set of nickel plated steel. Those are the two main categories (there's also coated but those won't be bright). See which works better and then go to the next step....maybe deciding on a regular gauge set or one with a heavy bottom. Then, maybe try a couple of brands in that spec. You'll find slight differences in bendability between brands. I know this sounds frustrating but you really do need to try some yourself. What works for someone else may not work for you. There's no reason to take strings off after testing them. Look at this as a long-term project. Get a few sets, play them for a couple of weeks each....make note of the ones that seem better. After a few months, you'll have a good idea. Personally, I'm a GHS Boomers guy. I get a few different gauges when I buy for my different guitars. It makes it easy and I know what to expect. My gauges are 9, 10, 10.5, and 11....and I also like a set of heavy bottoms on my NOS. BTW - where are you in VA? There's a few of us here. L- __________________ Lance "not very good...but I make up for it by playing loud"