You might want to have a read through
THIS thread - lots of good information there. If you're not comfortable making the adjustments yourself, take it to a shop and ask them to do a setup on your guitar. You'll be amazed at the difference.
As far as "softer" strings, it's probably more about the lower action on his guitar, which doesn't require as much finger pressure to fret the strings. Having your guitar setup properly would make tons more difference than any string change. As EddieZ said, his strings may have been a lighter gauge (thinner) than yours, which would make some difference.