Differences Between Guitar Strings: Which Are the Best for You?

Finding the perfect guitar is a process where you have to think about a number of factors. After you've picked the perfect guitar, you have another decision to make: what strings to get. You may not think too deeply about your strings, but they're a crucial part of your guitar. There are tons of different strings, and finding the right ones are important.

Here's a look at how guitar strings differ and what that means to you for finding the right set.

Gauges

A string's gauge simply refers to how thick it is. The thickness of the strings will vary from light to heavy. Finding the right gauge will depend on a few factors, including the following:

• Playing style: How you play can help you determine the gauge you need. If you like to play hard using a pick, a heavier gauge would be a good choice. A thicker gauge will help your strings last longer and survive harder playing techniques better than a lighter gauge version of a string. If you're a strummer with your fingers, a light gauge would be a great pick. A lighter gauge will be much easier on your fingers. However, if you apply a lot of pressure when picking and playing, picking a heavier gauges string which can sometimes be associated with a fuller low end in your tone may be best.

• Tone: Heavy-gauge strings will have a deeper tone, while light-gauge strings will have a higher tone. If you have a tone preference for your guitar, choosing the right gauge for the strings will help you achieve the tone you're looking for.

• Instrument characteristics: The age of your guitar and its body size can help you pick the right gauge. If you have a vintage guitar, a heavier gauge will put extra stress on the neck, which could lead to damage. A lighter gauge would keep your older guitar in better condition. When considering the body size, a good rule of thumb is that a light gauge is better for small-bodied guitars and a heavier gauge is better for large-bodied guitars.

Cores

The interior of guitar strings can be made with a variety of different materials, including:

• Stainless steel

• Copper

• Titanium

• Nickel

• Chrome

The core material is related to the string's gauge. However, this factor only applies to metal strings. Nylon strings will not have a core material. The tougher the core material, the heavier the gauge the strings will have. And similarly to gauge, the core will also affect the tone you'll get.

The core will also come in one of two shapes: round and hex. The shape of the core will affect the tone and feel of the sound the guitar will make.

The type of core you choose will depend on what type of tone you'd like your guitar to have. This factor will really come down to your own preference.

Coatings

You can buy your guitar strings uncoated or coated. There are advantages and disadvantages to choosing either option.

Uncoated strings will be less expensive and can also give you a purer sound from the guitar. However, when you play with uncoated strings, oil and dirt from your hands will build up on the strings over time, affecting tone.

Coated strings will be more expensive and some guitarists say the coating affects the tone. The positives of this type of guitar strings are that they will last much longer than uncoated strings and can actually make the tone better than uncoated. The uncoated strings may sound brighter and cleaner at the beginning, but the gunk left behind from your hands will muddle the tone. The coated strings can actually give you a cleaner tone over time by repelling that gunk.

You may want to see whether you have coated or uncoated strings on your guitar right now and then decide if you want to keep the same type or go the other way to try something different.

Nylon vs. Metal Strings

The factors we've talked about up to this point apply to metal strings. A different type of material for guitar strings is nylon, which may be a better choice for you than metal strings.

Nylon strings are great for beginners and kids. They're a lot kinder to your fingers, letting you avoid those painful calluses that players of steel strings get. The lighter tone of nylon strings is also better suited to different genres, like jazz. Just note that nylon strings need to be tuned more often.

Again, choosing between nylon and metal strings will come down to your personal tastes and style.

If you need help finding the right strings for your guitar, we've got the selection and expertise that will help you make the right decision. Visit us in-store or online for great deals on your next set of guitar strings.