Which acoustic guitar strings 85/15 or phosphor bronze and brand would you recommend?

Question

right now I'm playing with D'dario 85/15 , model: ez910 (011-052).

And I hate it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It sounds terrible.......

It's too hard to play.........

Please recommend some better stings!


thanks!

Answer 1

I find each different guitar responds differently to different strings. I recently had some good results from Martin Acoustic SP 80/20 bronze strings (012-054), which aren't very expensive,on one guitar, and on another guitar I have the Elixer strings.

The Elixers have some kind of space age ceramic coating on them to make them last longer, so they're in the $20 range. These are getting a bit dull sounding now because I've used the same set for 2 1/2 years....I used to change sets every week or two.

So, basically, you'll have to keep trying different sets until you find one you like.

Sometimes having a JDL Bridge Doctor installed in your guitar improves the sound and increases the volume. I know quite a few builder/ repair people who have installed these, but check with your local repair person first because they don't always improve things.

http://www.jldguitar.net/

See them here:
http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Tools/Special_tools_for:_Bridges/1/JLD_Bridge_Doctor/Pictures.html#details

Answer 2

Question one--what kind of guitar is it and what does manufacturer recommend for it?

I use D'Addario extra light acoustic strings, EJ15-3D, which are the recommended ones for my current acoustic--a Washburn Rover backpacker model that sounds eerily good for such an instrument (and has a Fishman under bridge pickup installed so that it can sound even better).

I used to use D'Addario mediums on my Ovation acoustic back when I was playing rock and roll regularly. But I forget the exact model number.

Y'know, the more I think about it, "hard to play" isn't generally a string problem but a set-up problem. Have you considered taking the instrument to a good guitar shop and consulting them on whether the action needs to be adjusted?

Answer 3

Yes you can. In fact, I prefer phosphor bronze strings to standard steel on my acoustic guitar. I think they play better, feel better, and sound better. My favorites are the D'Addario phosphor-bronze medium gauge.

Answer 4

I echo Chris's comments about using Martin Studio Performance acoustic strings or Elixers. Currently, I have Martin Phospher Bronze mediums (M550s) on my Martin and their longevity are great. They keep the calluses tough without a lot of pain. Further, they stay in tune well.

I much prefer medium gauge strings on all my guitars because of projection and tone. I care not for the thin, tinny strings that many place on their guitars.

Answer 5

I like Martin Marquis Phosphor bronze lights. But like the other post says - if it's hard to play with 11's on there now, it may be the setup not the strings.