Does it matter if I use Nylon strongs on my acoustic guitar, if it originally came with steel strings?

Question

I heard that I could damage my guitar if I tried this. Is it true?

Answer 1

It won't damage your guitar, but the strings probably won't take it. Nylon strings are normally made for a shorter gauge.

Steel string guitars won't sound good with nylon strings anyway. You might not even be able to tie the nylong strings as steel strings usually use pegheads.

Just use steel man, it's way better...

Answer 2

There is silk and steel strings that are a cross breed available also.
the thinnest strings are steel.

With Nylon there is a little different technique used to insure the strings through the winding pegs don't slip. Someone should show you.

but I have to ask if your guitar just needs a little TLC (or has problem and needs replaced) to play easier. If you were to take it to a shop they might be able to recommend some changes like a new saddle or a neck adjustment or something else that might help the ease of playing.

The answer to your question is NO.

Answer 3

Musical style speaks volumes when it comes to this issue. Those who want high volume will be unhappy with unamplified nylon string guitars. From my perspective, the basic difference between steel and nylon is this: steel strings ring and nylon strings resonate. The volume produced by steel is generally much greater than nylon but, to my way of thinking, the sound resonance produced by the wood of your guitar is largely masked by steel strings. If you have a decently made guitar (generally, around a thousand dollars and up), the sound interplay between the wood and the strings in a nylon guitar is magical across the entire frequency range. With a steel string guitar, the sound produced by the vibrating string overpowers the wood resonance at all but low frequencies. Personally, I'll take a nylon string guitar any day for the sensitivity gained from the interplay between wood and vibrating string.

Answer 4

Nope it won't damage your guitar, it's possible to use different strings, but know that it won't sound half as good with Nylon strings, they take all the feeling out......... in my opinion.

Answer 5

The problem is, can it even be done? These 2 types of strings are attached to the guitar differently.

Answer 6

I've never had a problem, however, you will kill the 'soul' of the music you make. It won't sound half as good, and will feel softer, muted... lacking.

Steel strings give it its depth and richness of tone.

Answer 7

thats awful, quickly get a classical guitar. for guitarist sake dont do it again.

Answer 8

not unless they're some super heavy gauge

Answer 9

DO NOT DO THIS!