What string gauge would be best to use for a Fender Stratocaster?

Answer 1

The lighter the gague of string that you use the less sustain it will have and will sound thinner, the heavier the gague, better tone however, more tension is placed upon the neck so, there are other issues to be considered there as well like neck warpage etc.
Sevie Ray Vaughn played 13 gague strings on his Strat and it sounded fat however I wouldn't recommend it, I'd say give 10's a try and then maybe bump up to 11's if that doesn't do the trick.
I would NEVER reccomend Ernie Ball strings to anyone, they sound great however, they break just a bit too easy, I briefly used their strings a few years ago and busted them left and right, never the same string twice, and on different guitars so the set up wasn't an issue.

The verdict? GHS BOOMERS or GHS FATTIES 10 gague.

Answer 2

Try adding more springs in the back or if you're hardtail, make sure those set screws are cranked up tight (about a quarter inch or less to the wood). Also, if you currently have 3 springs, make sure they are oriented like this I I I, not / I \. Doing this will increase tension on the bridge. It's also the proper way to set up, I don't know why they do / I \ at the factory! The middle spring will fall out when bending up you're semi-tone with the tromolo! It's basically useless, or at least not as useful - that middle spring, unless you set it up properly I I I.
Doing this may allow you to use the heavier gauge strings that you prefer, however... If you do this, you really need a V shaped or ball bat type '70's neck on the strat. I like these personally, but have never found them on strats off the wall at the shop. At least the ones i could ever afford. It must be a custom request. I've seen them at the stores, but their always way up near the ceiling you know what I mean? The 4000 dollar jobs and such. Regardless, the issue is neck relief. A heavy gauge string will put too much tension on the neck and you'll have to crank the trussrod like a mofo. Use a drop of oil and take you're time if you want to do this. Please don't strip the nut ladies and gents!
Also, for a gauge string heavier than 11, I believe you'll have to file the nut a bit. Remember, there is still a fretboard radius at the nut too! It's not hard work, but it's a lot of work and all for a heavier gauge string. Strats are engineered for 9 or 10's only, so I've heard. I think you're better off with a tele if you want to play with 12's. Still, a beautiful tone! The guitar is just engineered to accomodate heavier strings without extensive mods. Stevie Ray payed dudes a lot of money to rig his guitars so he could play 13's, don't forget! Anyway, hope this helps.
Idk, maybe I'm full of ****

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
What string gauge would be best to use for a Fender Stratocaster?

Answer 4

Light gauge high strings (EBGD), heavy gauge bass strings (E&A). I think Ernie Ball has a set like this. Light gauge strings are the best for bending and vibratos but light gauge bass strings sound "tinny". Ernie Ball Super Slinky are about the best there is!

I have a 1973 sunburst Fender Stratocaster with a maple neck.

Answer 5

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Answer 6

yes I agree .009-.046 would do the trick. and strings- I would sugest ernie balls

Answer 7

.009-.046"

probably have to add springs to the trem if you try 10's