Finger-picking strings?

tonedeaf · #1 January 15th, 2007

Hello all,

What in your opinion is the best string(s) to put on a dreadnaught for finger-picking? There's so many to choose from I'm looking for some suggestions. I have light strings on my guitar now. Is there really any difference when it comes down to it?

Thanks,
John

Teddy Madison · #2 January 15th, 2007

I use Elixir light Nanoweb. Light because that's what the manufacturer recommends and the guitar is still under a year old so if the neck comes flying off they can't blame me.

After the year I may try medium or med-light just to see...

Elixir is expensive (17.00 us. w/tax a set) but I find them brighter than the others and keep a nice tone 3 times longer. I tried Martin and they seemed to start getting flat after only two weeks so doing the math, the Elixirs are cheaper in the long run.

Wayne

cshude · #3 January 15th, 2007

I've been using DR lights. They are about half the price of the Elixirs and last pretty well- I've been on the same set now for about 10 weeks, although it's time to change them. A string dressing like Fastfret helps lengthen the life.

si16 · #4 January 15th, 2007

If they are for finger picking you would probably want to try something a bit thicker to improve the tone, however if you haven't been playing for very long your fingers might struggle with a heavier gauge.

Perhaps try starting with a set of .11s and, if it feels OK, move up to .12 or .13.

Teddy Madison · #5 January 15th, 2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by cshude

I've been using DR lights. They are about half the price of the Elixirs and last pretty well- I've been on the same set now for about 10 weeks, although it's time to change them. A string dressing like Fastfret helps lengthen the life.

Good point. I don't use anything on the strings and I'm sure the coating on the Elixers is what is giving the longevity. I recently started using 3 in 1 oil after playing so maybe when these are shot I will try a less expensive set and see what happens...

allthumbs · #6 January 15th, 2007

If your finger picking a dread, you really want to have the action as low as possible. Dreads are set up higher to avoid string buzz with hard strumming.

kbow · #7 January 15th, 2007

Martin Silk and Steel is what I use. I am thinking about switching to elixirs. The Martins seem to wear out quick.

solidwalnut · #8 January 15th, 2007

Ahhh...I remember the Martin Silk and Steels. I used to use those years ago and like them.

But what I use today are phosphor bronze-type strings. You'll just have to do some experimenting to see what sounds good to you. The reason I like phosphor bronze is because they're not as brash sounding as regular bronze 80/20's. But like others have said, these strings won't last as long as Elixirs. On the other hand, and this is just my opinion, phosphor bronze-type strings will give you a better overall sound at first, even though they may not last as long as you'd like.

Steve

pughwilliam · #9 January 16th, 2007

Elixir makes Phosphor Bronze strings. Sound excellent with long life.

solidwalnut · #10 January 16th, 2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by pughwilliam

Elixir makes Phosphor Bronze strings. Sound excellent with long life.

Ahhh, I didn't realize that. I guess I basically stay away from them so I didn't know. For whatever reason, I break Elixirs.

cshude · #11 January 16th, 2007

The DRs I use are phosphor bronze as well. They break in in roughly 90 minutes of playing- take the edge off the highs and the buzziness out of the lows.

tonedeaf · #12 January 17th, 2007

Thanks for all the wonderful ideas and tips. I really appreciate it. I'm kind of intrigued by Kirk's fingerpicking lessons and your responses are just what I am looking for. I'm working on 'Over the Rainbow' and 'Auld Lang Syne'. I'm getting close I can feel it! Thanks again, John