Acoustic Guitar String Guide: Perfect Strings Quest

Table of Contents

Introduction

Choosing the right acoustic guitar strings is one of the most important decisions any guitarist can make. The strings are responsible for producing all of the tone from your instrument, so the materials, gauge, and construction have an enormous impact on both sound and playability. That’s why taking the time to find the ideal strings for your guitar, playing style, and musical needs should never be an afterthought.

The truth is, there is no universally "best" acoustic guitar string. What sounds bright and lively on one guitar may be shrill and harsh on another. And strings that feel comfortable for fingerpicking may cause painful finger fatigue when strumming. The key is matching your strings to your individual guitar and playing style. Even small factors like the climate you live in and the amount of sweat and oils on your fingers can influence what strings work best for you.

This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the process of selecting acoustic strings. You’ll learn how different string materials, gauges, and construction methods impact tone and feel. We’ll provide tailored recommendations based on your skill level, guitar type, and playing style. And we’ll cover all the essential buying considerations – from getting the right strings for vintage instruments to determining when it’s time to change your strings.

With the wisdom in this guide, you’ll be able to upgrade your acoustic guitar’s tone and playability. The right strings can make your guitar easier to play, enhance its voice, and allow your technique to shine. Let’s get started on the path to finding your perfect match!

String Materials 101

The materials that make up acoustic guitar strings have a significant impact on their tone, feel, and longevity. The three most common types of materials for acoustic strings are bronze, phosphor bronze, and stainless steel.

Bronze strings have a bright, crisp sound with strong fundamentals and overtones. The bronze alloy contains up to 92% copper along with tin, zinc, and small amounts of other metals. Bronze has a raw, vintage tone but is less resistant to corrosion and buildup compared to other materials.

Phosphor bronze contains up to 5% phosphor and has a warmer, smoother sound compared to traditional bronze. The phosphor gives the strings added hardness and longevity while retaining pleasing overtones. Phosphor bronze has a well-balanced tone suitable for many playing styles.

Stainless steel is the most durable and corrosion resistant material for acoustic strings. It has a very bright tone with pronounced highs and detailed note separation. Stainless steel can sound harsh on some guitars but works well for slide and blues playing. The slick surface also makes stainless steel ideal for smooth sliding.

Understanding how each material impacts an acoustic guitar’s tone and feel allows you to select the right strings to achieve your desired sound. Balancing tone with the strings’ expected lifespan and suitability for your climate is also important for getting the best performance.

Understanding String Gauge

String gauge refers to the thickness of guitar strings and is measured in 1/1000ths of an inch. Acoustic guitar strings typically come in light, medium, and heavy gauges. Each gauge has its own unique feel and tonal characteristics:

Light Gauge Acoustic Guitar Strings

Light gauge acoustic strings range from .012 to .053 inches and have the thinnest construction. The pros of light strings are:

Require less finger pressure to fret notes and bend strings
Allow for faster, intricate playing with easier fingering
Produce brighter tone with more articulation and "sparkle"
Create less tension which can help prevent guitar neck bowing

However, light strings also have some downsides:

Project less volume and fullness
Can lack the warmth and low-end of heavier gauges
More prone to intonation issues from excessive string bending
May not properly drive large-bodied guitars

Overall, light acoustic strings are ideal for beginners, players with small hands, fingerstyle players, and situations where playability trumps big tone.

Medium Gauge Acoustic Guitar Strings

Medium gauge acoustic strings range from .013 to .056 inches and offer a versatile middle ground. Benefits include:

Provide a balanced feel between playability and fuller tone
Offer a warm, well-rounded tone with good volume and projection
Resist tuning instability from string bending better than light gauges
Work well on most body sizes from parlor to jumbo guitars

Mediums may feel slightly tougher on the fingers than lights during long practice sessions. However, many players feel this gauge provides the best all-around acoustic tone and performance.

Heavy Gauge Acoustic Guitar Strings

Heavy gauge acoustic strings go from .014 to .059 inches and higher. Heavier gauges provide:

Fuller, louder tone with enhanced bass response
Excellent projection and volume even when played softly
Stability staying in tune even with aggressive strumming
Can better control overtone ringing on large-bodied guitars

The tradeoffs of heavy gauges are:

Require greater finger pressure to fret and bend notes
Can cause finger fatigue more quickly, especially during long gigs
May induce neck bowing on some acoustic guitars over time
Not ideal for intricate fingerpicking styles

In summary, heavier acoustic strings are often favored by aggressive strummers, rhythm players, and those playing jumbo-bodied guitars optimized for volume and projection. The tonal benefits outweigh playability concerns for some players.

Coated vs. Uncoated Strings

Acoustic guitar strings come in both coated and uncoated varieties. Coated strings have an extra layer of polymer or metal applied to the winding. This coating is designed to protect the strings and give them a longer lifespan. There are a few key differences between coated and uncoated strings to consider:

Benefits of Coated Strings

Extended string life – The coating prevents corrosion and buildup of oils, sweat, and grime on the strings. This allows coated strings to maintain their tone and playability for significantly longer.
Reduced finger squeak and noise – The slick polymer coating greatly reduces the friction on the strings when sliding or bending. This results in less finger noise.
Resistance to humidity/climate changes – The protective coating helps the strings hold their tune better in humid environments or extreme weather changes. Uncoated strings tend to rust and corrode faster in these conditions.

When to Choose Coated Strings

Coated strings are ideal for players who:

Sweat heavily on the strings or live in humid climates
Dislike changing strings frequently
Seek maximum string life span and consistent tone over time
Want to minimize finger squeak and noise when sliding and bending

Potential Tonal Differences

Some players feel coated strings sound slightly less bright and organic than uncoated strings, especially when brand new. The coating needs to be broken in before the strings achieve their optimal tone. With playing time, coated strings end up sounding very close to uncoated.

Others argue coated and uncoated versions of the same string brand and gauge are tonally identical. Much of this comes down to player perception and preference.

When to Choose Uncoated Strings

Uncoated strings may be preferable for those who:

Prefer a more organic, raw tone from the strings
Don’t mind changing strings more frequently
Dislike any perceived dampening effect from string coatings
Want the strings to mellow out in tone naturally over time

In the end, choosing coated or uncoated acoustic guitar strings comes down to your playing style, preferences, and guitar maintenance habits. Be sure to try both types to determine what works best for your needs.

Flatwound vs. Roundwound Strings

Flatwound and roundwound strings have very different constructions that produce distinct tonal characteristics and playing feels.

Roundwound strings are made by wrapping wire around a hex-shaped core. The outer wrap wire has a round, textured surface. This gives roundwounds a bright, crisp tone with metallic high overtones and good grip under the fingers for techniques like bending and vibrato. The textured wrap also produces more finger noise.

Flatwound strings have a smooth, flat outer wrap wire. This gives them a mellow tone focused on the fundamental and overtones, with a reduced metallic zing compared to roundwounds. Their smooth surface reduces finger squeak and facilitates jazz-style comping and chord melodies. However, their slick feel can make techniques like bending more challenging.

In summary:

Roundwounds have a bright, textured feel optimal for strumming and lead playing.
Flatwounds have a smooth, muted tone and feel suited for jazz, blues, and mellow fingerstyle.

The choice between roundwound and flatwound acoustic strings comes down to the tone and playing feel you desire for your style of music.

Best Acoustic Strings for Beginners

When starting out on acoustic guitar, it’s crucial to choose strings that enhance playability and avoid finger fatigue. This allows you to practice comfortably while building finger strength and calluses.

The Importance of Playability

For beginners, lighter gauge acoustic strings typically offer the best experience. The decreased string tension makes it easier to press strings down to the fretboard and bend notes. This reduces hand strain and sore fingertips while learning basic chords and scales. Many beginners prefer light gauge sets starting at .012 or .013 on the high E string.

Coated strings can also improve playability for novice players. The coating reduces friction against the frets for smoother chord changes and fretting. Popular coated options like Elixir Nanoweb and D’Addario EXP help keep strings feeling new longer. This consistent feel aids development of muscle memory.

Recommended Beginner-Friendly String Sets

Here are some top acoustic string sets for starting out:

D’Addario EJ16 – A phosphor bronze light gauge set starting at .012. Provides a warm, balanced tone.
Elixir 80/20 Bronze Nanoweb – These coated phosphor bronze lights offer extended life and a bright, defined sound.
Ernie Ball Earthwood – Made from an eco-friendly, non-corrosive alloy. Warm tone with a silky feel.
Martin M140 – Light phosphor bronze strings with good longevity. Nice balance of volume and playability.
Fender FA-135 80/20 Bronze – Quality budget-friendly lights for Fender acoustics.

The key is finding a beginner string that makes learning fun while allowing you to develop proper technique. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different gauges and materials until you find your ideal set.

Choosing Strings Based on Your Playing Style

Best Strings for Fingerpicking

Fingerstyle players will want to choose strings that enhance the warm, rich tones of the guitar. Phosphor bronze and silk-and-steel strings are ideal choices, as they provide a smooth feel and balanced warmth across the strings. Light or extra-light gauges allow for intricate fingerpicking while reducing finger fatigue. Popular options include:

Martin M140 Phosphor Bronze Light
D’Addario EJ40 Phosphor Bronze Extra Light
Elixir 80/20 Bronze Nanoweb Light

Best Strings for Strumming and Rhythm Playing

When strumming chords, projection and clarity are key. Bronze and nickel-plated steel strings cut through the mix with bright, vibrant tones. Medium or light-top/heavy-bottom sets provide a balanced feel and full low-end. Great choices include:

Ernie Ball Earthwood Bronze Medium
D’Addario EJ16 Phosphor Bronze Light Top/Heavy Bottom
GHS Vintage Bronze Medium

Best Strings for Lead Guitar and Soloing

Lead playing requires strings with a balanced tone across all strings and good bending capabilities. Nickel-plated or stainless steel strings offer clarity and definition for solos. Light or extra-light gauges provide great bendability. Recommended options:

Fender 150 Original Pure Nickel Wound Light
Gibson Masterbuilt Phosphor Light
Elixir 80/20 Polyweb Stainless Steel Light

Acoustic Strings for Different Body Sizes

The size and shape of an acoustic guitar’s body significantly impacts its tone and volume. Larger-bodied guitars tend to produce louder and deeper tones, while smaller-bodied guitars offer more balanced and focused sound. Choosing the right strings to complement the guitar’s body style is key.

Concert and Parlor Guitars

Concert and parlor guitars have a compact, comfortable body size. Their smaller soundboards and bodies produce a focused, articulate tone that excels at clean fingerpicking.

For these smaller-bodied acoustics, lighter gauge strings are recommended. Heavier strings create excessive tension which can overpower the soundboard. Light or extra-light phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze strings in the 11-53 gauge range help produce warm, intimate tones without overtaxing the guitar. Silk and steel strings are also an excellent match when a mellow tone is desired.

Grand Auditorium and Dreadnought Acoustics

With their versatile body shapes and characteristic hourglass profiles, Grand Auditorium and Dreadnought acoustics are exceptionally popular guitar styles. Their balanced, projecting tone works well for both fingerpicking and strumming.

Medium gauge (12-54) phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze strings pair nicely with these body styles. They provide a blend of comfortable playability, warmth, and volume. Lighter gauges can also be used to reduce tension on the larger soundboard. Coated strings help extend tone life.

Jumbo Guitars

Jumbo acoustics produce extremely loud, booming tones thanks to their large bodies and soundboards. The expansive soundboard allows greater vibration and projection.

To properly drive these large-bodied guitars, heavier string gauges are recommended. Medium-heavy to heavy phosphor bronze and nickel-plated steel strings in the 13-56 gauge range help produce full, rich jumbo tones. The heavier gauges bring out the guitar’s potential for volume and sustain.

Recommended Acoustic String Brands

Acoustic guitarists have an abundance of quality string brands to choose from. Here are some of the top acoustic string manufacturers and their notable offerings:

Elixir Strings

Elixir is renowned for their long-lasting coated acoustic strings. Their coating technology provides excellent corrosion resistance and decreased finger squeak. Popular models include:

Elixir 80/20 Bronze Nanoweb Strings – A phosphor bronze string with a bright, balanced tone. The coating provides a smooth feel.
Elixir Phosphor Bronze Nanoweb Strings – Warm, robust strings with extended playability. Great for fingerstyle playing.
Elixir Polyweb Strings – A more affordable coated string that still provides great corrosion resistance.

D’Addario

D’Addario is one of the largest string manufacturers, known for high quality and consistency. Notable acoustic lines:

EXP Phosphor Bronze – D’Addario’s premium phosphor bronze string, provides a warm, detailed tone.
EJ Bronze – A robust and bright 80/20 bronze string available in a wide range of gauges.
EZ-Acoustic – An inexpensive coated string designed for beginners.

Martin

Martin is a legendary American acoustic guitar brand, so it’s no surprise they make excellent strings too. Favorites include:

Martin Authentic Acoustic 80/20 Bronze – A versatile all-bronze string, great for both strumming and fingerpicking.
Martin M140 Phosphor Bronze – Warm and smooth phosphor bronze strings perfect for vintage martin guitars.
Martin M150 12-String – A specialized phosphor bronze 12-string set for rich, complex tones.

Ernie Ball

Known for electric strings, Ernie Ball also produces acoustic lines like:

Earthwood Phosphor Bronze – A mellow, flexible phosphor bronze string.
Everlast Nanoweb – A coated string designed for long life.

GHS

GHS offers quality strings at affordable prices. Notable sets include:

Vintage Bronze Wound – An 80/20 bronze string with a vintage-like feel and sound.
Silk & Bronze – A silk/steel core and bronze wrap combination with a warm, delicate tone.

Gibson

Gibson’s string division offers both electric and acoustic strings. For acoustics, they produce:

Sonophone – A phosphor bronze set with optimized warmth and sustain.
Masterbuilt – A premium 80/20 bronze string for balanced tone and clarity.

Fender

Fender is another famous electric guitar brand with acoustic offerings like:

9050 Phosphor Bronze – Warm, punchy phosphor bronze strings perfect for strumming.
150 Pure Nickel Wound – Bright vintage-style strings made from pure nickel wrap.

Buying Tips

When purchasing new strings for your acoustic guitar, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind beyond just choosing the right gauge and material:

How Much Should You Spend?
Acoustic guitar strings can range in price from around $5 to $15 or more. As you might expect, more expensive options from premium brands tend to last longer and hold their tone. However, decent quality strings don’t have to break the bank. Many guitarists are happy with strings in the $10-12 range from trusted manufacturers. Consider how often you change strings and your budget when deciding how much to spend.

Strings for Vintage Guitars
If you have a vintage or antique acoustic guitar, take care in choosing new strings. Always use a lighter gauge than you normally would to avoid placing excessive tension on an older instrument. Coated strings are also a good idea to help minimize string grooves on the fretboard and protect the finish over time. Ask the manufacturer if dedicated "vintage" string sets are available.

When to Change Strings
This varies based on how much you play, but a good rule of thumb is to change your acoustic guitar’s strings every 1-3 months. Signs that it’s time for new strings include dull or muddy tone, string discoloration, fret buzz, or visible buildup on the strings. Changing strings regularly helps keep your guitar sounding its best.

How to Properly Store Strings
Keep unused sets in the manufacturer’s sealed packaging until you are ready to install them. Store strings in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Try to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations. Refrigerating strings can help prolong freshness and shelf life. With proper storage acoustic guitar strings can last for many years before use.