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15 messages

Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?

08 Oct 12 - 04:25 AM (#3416184)
Subject: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: Henry Krinkle

I'm curious. Does it help? Your playing? String life?
I think I read Earl Scruggs would run his fingers through his slicked up hair. Vitalis anyone?
(:-( ))=


08 Oct 12 - 04:40 AM (#3416195)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: GUEST

I use spectacle cleaning cloths to clean my strings


08 Oct 12 - 04:43 AM (#3416197)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: Henry Krinkle

I've used metal polishing wadding. Works.
(:-( ))=


08 Oct 12 - 05:44 AM (#3416215)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: GUEST,999

There is a substance called Fastfret that works well. Not a lubricant per se, but it does help preserve the strings.


08 Oct 12 - 06:17 AM (#3416224)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: Henry Krinkle

I'm wondering about lubricant. I think Roy Clark uses it too.
(:-( ))=


08 Oct 12 - 06:38 AM (#3416230)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: kendall

Fast fret


08 Oct 12 - 06:42 AM (#3416232)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: JHW

No but I use a fretboard dressing oil on the wood when I change strings. Recommended when I bought the guitar. Does it make any difference? Don't know. Its a habit, like turning out at folk clubs. Reminds me though I've just changed strings and forgotten all about the oil. Now I'll have to think where it is.


08 Oct 12 - 07:16 AM (#3416245)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: Stanron

I use a special digital lubricant that is absolutely state of the art. It's called sweat. Rub your fingertips between your nostril and face. Job done.


08 Oct 12 - 08:35 AM (#3416283)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: GUEST,999

http://voices.yahoo.com/ghs-fast-fret-string-lubricant-cleaner-fails-to-849341.html

The article at that site is very good.


08 Oct 12 - 09:02 AM (#3416295)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: GUEST,leeneia

I use Fast Fret on my fretted dulcimer. My fingers come off the strings more smoothly, producing less twang. I like it that way.


08 Oct 12 - 12:17 PM (#3416404)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: Henry Krinkle

I'll try it. I never liked that Fingerease stuff.
(:-( ))=


08 Oct 12 - 12:38 PM (#3416414)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: Girl Friday

My other half uses Fast Fret, and he says Baby Oil works well.


08 Oct 12 - 01:29 PM (#3416444)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: GUEST,Tony

The article that 999 linked to recommends against Fast Fret, but only on the basis of build-up. It didn't say anything about the obvious solution, which would be removing the last layer and any dirt stuck to it before putting a new layer on. Like a bicycle chain.


08 Oct 12 - 06:53 PM (#3416652)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: GUEST,999

I try to wash my hands before practicing or using my stage guitar for performance. I try to wipe the strings before she goes back in the case. I use Fast Fret about once every two weeks or so. Sweat and other acids from the fingers begins a corrosion process on strings. Keeping them clean as possible both extends their 'shelf life' and their clarity.

Tony makes a good point.


09 Oct 12 - 08:19 AM (#3416874)
Subject: RE: Tech: String Lubricant: Do you use it?
From: GUEST,Roj

Stringlife works a treat. Strings really do feel as if they're coated and are beautiful to play on. You get the advantage of being able to use the strings you prefer, but then the get the benefits that Elixirs offer - strings do last longer if you use it right, and sound better for longer. As guest, Tony says - getting the muck off after is as, if not more, important than what you put on.

Only problem is, I can never remember to put it on before I play - every time - then polish it off, and re-apply it - every time I finish. I'm just not good enough at all that routine stuff.

I have no commercial interest in Stringlife, but recommend it anyone who asks what I think about Fast fret and the rest.

It definitely helps with acid sweat issues. I used to knock out a new set of strings by the end of a 2 hour gig (totally - wouldn't even stay in tune) and now don't, even with chaotic use of the stuff.