[HANASHIR:5661] Re: New Guitar Strings

[Ellen Allard <ellen...>]

We use DR strings also and they're quite good. 
-- 
Ellen Allard 
Worcester, MA
http://www.PeterandEllen.com

----------
>From: NBudin (at) aol(dot)com
>To: hanashir (at) shamash(dot)org
>Subject: [HANASHIR:5660] Re: New Guitar Strings
>Date: Mon, Apr 3, 2000, 8:38 AM
>

> 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
>

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