I used to say buy cheap and change often, too ... but I always have a problem with phospur (especially in summer) and phosphur is what most string makers like to use for their very bright sound. So I started hunting for the best priced, lowest phosphur content. Along the way I tried the Elixers. They have a good sound (not great) they are much quieter (no scraping sound as you move your hand up the neck) but for me the key is they sound good, forever! They just seem to last and last and don't loose their new string quality.

I still prefer the sound of the Martin Bronze (I use mediums on most of my guitars) but I use Elixers on my main performance guitar - so I don't have to change them every week!