The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #128396 Message #2876438
Posted By: deepdoc1
31-Mar-10 - 09:08 AM
Thread Name: Medium gauge vs light gauge strings...
Subject: RE: Medium gauge vs light gauge strings...
I'll add my voice to the design crowd. HD-28 - mediums; Baby Taylor - lights, Guild F50 - mediums (have tried heavys once or twice, but it's like playing telephone poles), Sigma 12-string - lights. Since I don't play much in public, I have enjoyed the Elixir strings with a coating that keeps them alive longer. If I ever get more serious, I'll switch to uncoated, but these do last quite a bit longer.
If you know what your guitar is designed for and decide to go a different weight, just keep an eye on possible adjustment changes or excess stress.
From the Martin Guitar FAQ (and yes, I realize there are many other brands, this is just a f'rinstance):
Q: Is it safe to use medium-gauge strings on my scallop braced guitar?
A: Yes it is safe. All of our six-string guitars designed for steel strings have been tested to withstand the tension of a medium gauge string. However, since each top is unique, take note if the top starts to raise abnormally. If this happens, go back to the lighter-gauge strings.
Q: What type of strings came on my Martin?
A: From time to time we change the type of strings used on new Martin guitars. Generally, all non-cutaway dreadnoughts and jumbos get medium gauge. All X-Series, cutaways and smaller models such as the 000 and 00 get light gauge strings. All 12 string guitars get extra light gauge. Of course we have a few exceptions with nylon string guitars and bass guitars. For the most current information of what type of strings came on your Martin, please refer to the model spec page for recommended strings.