[HANASHIR:5660] Re: New Guitar Strings

[NBudin <NBudin...>]

If you play out a lot, especially if you perform, I think changing strings on 
a regular basis is a must. The sound becomes dull and the strings become hard 
to tune.

I change mine about once a week. This varies depending on how much I've 
played and what brand I'm using. Lately, I've experimented with lots and lots 
of different brands to find just the right sound for my guitar and my liking.

Yes, I put off changing strings as long as I can stand it, because it's not 
exactly "fun." However, It only takes me about 10 - 20 minutes to do it and I 
consider part of my job as a professional. (And I have learned an excellent 
method from another guitar player, which I can't describe in writing -- at 
least not here -- and which prevents the strings from slipping with a little 
"slip knot" at the tuning peg, and "pre-streches" them with a method called 
"crinching" (I think). (I'll be glad to demonstrate at Hava nashira -- yes 
I'll be there this year -- or CAJE for anyone who is interested.)

I used to use Martin Marquis. I love the sound of them...for the first three 
days. I would buy them by the case and change them every 4-7 days.

I've tried Elixirs (they've been on the market for about two years now) and 
they do last longer, but I'm not satisfied with there over-all sound. I can 
get away with not changing them for 2-4 weeks. They are easier on the fingers 
because of their coating. But I've also found them to be inconsistent from 
set to set and I've given up on them.

Right now, I've discovered and am using with regularity a brand I really 
like. There are called DR. Not DR as in doctor. Just DR. They advertise that 
they are hand made. They sound good, they have a longer life than most brands 
and they are moderately priced -- somewhere between Martins and Elixirs.

Cleaning your strings can (and should) be done after every time you play. You 
will extend their life. You can do this with nothing more than a soft cloth. 
Just wipe them down. I carry an old white cotton T-shirt in my guitar case. 
You can also buy a bottle of string cleaner and lubricant. There are several 
brands on the market, all comparable. I have the Yamaha brand in my case 
right now. It's a small bottle, has a built in applicator and lasts nearly 
forever. I use it just before I play if my stings are sounding dull. It 
removes the harmful oils and dirt the strings accumulate from your fingers 
and hands.

Choosing strings is a very personal and subjective thing. Experiment with 
brand and gauge and find what works for you.

That's my lesson on guitar strings. Anyone care to discuss capos. It's Kyser, 
hands down.

Noah Budin
Singer/songwriter
Cleveland, OH
NBudin (at) aol(dot)com

------------------------ hanashir (at) shamash(dot)org -----------------------+