11 best guitar string acoustics

Guitar string acoustics are a fundamental aspect of how acoustic guitars produce sound. Understanding the physics of how strings vibrate and interact with the guitar's body is essential for both players and luthiers. Here are key points related to guitar string acoustics:

  1. String Materials: Acoustic guitar strings are typically made of materials like steel, phosphor bronze, or nylon.The choice of material significantly impacts the guitar's tone. Steel strings produce bright and crisp tones, while nylon strings create a mellow and warm sound.

  2. String Gauge: String gauge refers to the thickness or diameter of the strings. Thicker strings generally produce a louder and fuller sound but can be harder to play, while lighter strings are easier on the fingers but may have a brighter and less resonant tone.

  3. String Tension: String tension is the force exerted by the tightened strings on the guitar's neck and body. Higher tension strings can affect the playability and neck relief of the guitar. Some players prefer higher tension for fingerstyle playing, while others opt for lower tension for ease of bending notes.

  4. Vibration Modes: When a guitar string is plucked, it vibrates in various modes, including the fundamental frequency and harmonics (overtones). These vibrations create the guitar's sound. The fundamental frequency is the pitch you hear, while the harmonics contribute to the overall tone.

  5. Sustain: The sustain of a guitar string refers to how long a note continues to sound after being plucked. Factors like string material, tension, and the guitar's body shape influence sustain. Longer sustain is often preferred by lead guitarists for solos.

  6. Resonance: Acoustic guitars are designed to resonate and amplify the sound of vibrating strings. The body of the guitar, including the soundboard (top), back, and sides, plays a crucial role in shaping the guitar's tonal characteristics.

  7. Soundhole: The soundhole on an acoustic guitar allows air to move in and out of the body, contributing to resonance and sound projection. The size and shape of the soundhole can influence the guitar's sound.

  8. Bridge and Saddle: The bridge is the part of the guitar where the strings are anchored. The saddle, a small piece on the bridge, transfers string vibrations to the guitar's body. The height and material of the saddle affect string action and tone.

  9. Nut: The nut at the top of the neck guides the strings to their respective tuning pegs. It plays a role in string spacing and can affect the guitar's intonation.

  10. Harmonics: Guitarists can produce harmonics by lightly touching certain points on the string while plucking. These harmonics create bell-like tones and are used for artistic effects.

  11. Damping and Vibrations: Techniques like palm muting or using a dampening device can be employed to control the vibrations and sustain of the strings, allowing for a staccato or percussive effect.

  12. String Age and Maintenance: Over time, guitar strings lose their brightness and sustain due to oxidation and wear. Regular string changes and proper maintenance are essential for maintaining optimal tone.

Understanding guitar string acoustics helps players select the right strings for their preferred style and achieve the desired tone. It also informs luthiers in designing and crafting guitars to maximize their acoustic properties.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best guitar string acoustics on the market
  

Elixir Strings Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings w NANOWEB Coating, Custom Light (.011-.052)

Elixir

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Strum confidently with the same premium acoustic guitar strings that experienced players worldwide trust to keep their incredible tone longer than any other string available. Unlike other string brands, Elixir Strings coats the whole string. This protects not only the outer string surface but also the gaps between the windings where common tone-deadening gunk typically builds up in other brands’ coated and uncoated guitar strings. Anti-Rust Plating on plain steel strings ensures longer tone life for the entire set. Who wouldn’t love more quality playing time between the hassle and cost of string changes? Engineered to endure, these acoustic strings constructed with phosphor bronze wrap wire boast a dynamic balance of rich, full-bodied tone and sparkling high-end clarity. Compared to our original POLYWEB Coating, the ultra-thin NANOWEB Coating allows a more traditionally textured, “uncoated” feel. For a slicker, gentler feel, try a set of strings with our original POLYWEB Coating. The 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings with POLYWEB Coating, for example, might be a good fit if you want a more robust and rounded tone. On the other end of the tone spectrum, our 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings with NANOWEB Coating deliver a brighter, crisper tone alongside the same traditional feel as these phosphor bronze strings. Of course, the kind of string you play is all a matter of personal preference. Not sure what tone or feel is right for you? Try them out for yourself, and find your new favorite string from Elixir Strings. For a more in-depth look at what makes our strings so special, scroll to the branded info further down the page. Elixir Strings: Great tone. Long life.

  • Acoustic guitar strings constructed with phosphor bronze wrap wire
  • Played for a dynamic balance of rich, full-bodied tone and sparkling high-end clarity
  • Ultra-thin NANOWEB Coating provides a traditionally textured, “uncoated” feel
  • Our patented coating technology protects against common corrosion, extending tone life longer than any other brand’s coated or uncoated strings (Elixir Strings player survey)
  • Custom Light gauge: .011 .015 .022 .032 .042 .052

User questions & answers

Question: Would you recommend this for a Taylor 816ce
Answer: Yes, they are lightweight strings.
Question: how many strings are in the package
Answer: Wide enough. These are 12's. Light gauge string. They'll fit just about any acoustic guitar. The width of the neck (if that's what you mean when you say "how wide?") doesn't matter. These are the strings Martin recommends for most of their guitars by default.
Question: Are all 6 strings supposed to be bronze and nano coated, or are the E-1 and B-2 anti-rust plain steel
Answer: The custom light strings are a bit smaller in diameter than the light as shown below, per martin specs. Actually, there is an even lighter gauge called extra light. I like using the extra light for finger picking. I'll list all three categories. The gauges are listed starting with the 1st string (small E) etc. I won't bother to list the medium gauge strings. Extra light: .010 .014 .023 .030 .039 .047 Custom light: .011 .015 .023 .032 .042 .052 Light: .012 .016 .025 .032 .042 .054 The strings you mention being light gauge 92/8 Phosphor Bronze, model MA140S. The Phosphor Bronze type are much better than the cheaper 80/20 Bronze. Martin sells both types with all different gauges, but they ship most of their guitars with the 92/8 Phosphor Bronze. Stay with them. If you are using your guitar for your own enjoyment you might try using the extra light in 92/8 Phosphor Bronze type. Works good for me. They are listed as model MA170S
Question: What is the difference in sound between an 80/20 and phosphor bronze please? And poly and nano web? Which is warmer, less bright
Answer: Bronze. Perfectly safe. Just the skin oils pH reaction to bronzing. Not harmful and it is the same with all guitar strings that are coated with bronze. Nothing to be worried about.

Product features

Made For Musicians Who Just Want To Play More Music

Ever since pioneering coated string technology in 1997, our reason for making premium guitar strings has remained simple—we want you to have more quality playing time between the hassle and cost of string changes. And gig after gig, session after session, lesson after lesson, we’ve delivered. In fact, experienced players worldwide trust our corrosion-defying strings to keep their tone longer than any other brand’s coated or uncoated strings,* and we’re proud to stand as America’s #1 acoustic guitar string brand.**

We now offer three premium acoustic string options, each featuring our patented coating technology, to help you find exactly the tone and feel you’re looking for. Thanks to the unique differences between metals and coatings, we offer a long-lasting set for any style. From bright and sparkling to rich and robust, the dynamic range of available sound is yours for the picking. Of course, finding the string that’s right for you is a matter of personal preference. So try them out for yourself!

* Elixir strings player survey | ** mI salestrak (us $ vol) | gore, elixir, nanoweb, polyweb, optiweb great tone long life, 'e' icon, and other designs are trademarks of W.L. Gore & Associates.

Less Sweat, Debris, And Finger Squeak

The way your strings sound has a lot to do with what you normally can’t see. While both of our patented coatings reduce noisy finger squeak, they also cut down on a large number of other pesky annoyances common to your average uncoated string. Sweat, skin, dirt, and even air, for example, can do a lot of damage to your strings. And if you live in a hot, humid area, the moisture in the atmosphere can wreak total havoc on your strings’ tone life. But with Elixir Strings, you’re getting world-class protection that’s engineered to endure.

Polyweb Coating Vs NANOWEB Coating

POLYWEB Coating was our first coated string innovation all the way back in the '90s. It tends to warm and mellow the string’s tone and has a fast, slick feel that’s gentle on the fingers, which lets players keep jamming without the strings getting in the way. As a response to players who said they prefer a more traditional feel, NANOWEB Coating was then designed. This ultra-thin coating allows a brighter, crisper tone while offering the same amount of tone-life protection as its predecessor.

Coated Like No Other

Unlike other string brands, Elixir Strings coats the whole string. This protects not only the outer string surface but also the gaps between the windings where common tone-deadening gunk typically builds up in other brands’ coated and uncoated guitar strings. That’s why Elixir strings retain their tone longer than any other brand’s string, coated or uncoated. Simply put, build-up and corrosion kill your tone, and Elixir strings protect against elements that cause build-up and corrosion. All while sounding exactly how you’d expect a premium set of strings to sound.

Anti-Rust Plating

Corrosion protection between wrap wire windings is all well and good, but you may be asking yourself, 'What about the strings that don’t have a wrap wire?' And we’re proud to tell you, don’t worry—we’ve got those covered too. Literally. With our signature Anti-Rust Plating, even your plain steel strings defy the elements. This ensures longer tone life not just for your coated wound strings, but for your entire set. When we say you’ll have more gigging, jamming, touring, or practice time between string changes, we mean it.

High Praise For Elixir Strings From The Pros Themselves

"I put my first set on my guitar, and two weeks later they still sounded awesome."

-Kaki King, Golden Globe-Nominated Guitarist/Composer

High Praise For Elixir Strings From The Pros Themselves

"Sometimes someone comes up with a different idea. It changes all the rules of the game..."

-Bob Taylor of Taylor Guitars

High Praise For Elixir Strings From The Pros Themselves

"I use Elixir Strings in the studio and on stage. They always feel right and seem to complement any guitar I use. They're the perfect string."

-Wayne Sermon of Imagine Dragons

High Praise For Elixir Strings From The Pros Themselves

"I don't have to change them all the time and they still sound fantastic."

-John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin

Elixir Strings 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings w NANOWEB Coating, Medium (.013-.056)

Elixir

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Prolong your tone with the same acoustic guitar strings that experienced players worldwide trust to keep their incredible tone longer than any other string available. Unlike other string brands, Elixir Strings coats the whole string. This protects not only the outer string surface but also the gaps between the windings where common tone-deadening gunk typically builds up in other brands’ coated and uncoated guitar strings. Anti-Rust Plating on plain steel strings ensures longer tone life for the entire set. Who wouldn’t love more quality playing time between the hassle and cost of string changes? Premium by design, these acoustic strings constructed with 80/20 (80% copper, 20% zinc) bronze wrap wire boast a crisp, bright tone with an expressive, vibrant presence. Compared to our original POLYWEB Coating, the ultra-thin NANOWEB Coating allows a more traditionally textured, “uncoated” feel. For a slicker, gentler feel, try the original POLYWEB Coating on our 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Strings, which also feature a more robust and rounded tone. For more of a balance between bold and bright, our Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings with NANOWEB Coating deliver full-bodied tone and sparkling high-end clarity alongside the same traditional feel as these 80/20 bronze strings. Of course, the kind of string you play is all a matter of personal preference. Not sure what tone or feel is right for you? Try them out for yourself, and find your new favorite string from Elixir Strings. For a more in-depth look at what makes our strings so special, scroll to the branded info further down the page. Elixir Strings: Great tone. Long life.

  • Acoustic guitar strings constructed with 80/20 (80% copper, 20% zinc) bronze wrap wire
  • Played for a crisp, bright tone with an expressive, vibrant presence
  • Ultra-thin NANOWEB Coating provides a more traditionally textured, “uncoated” feel
  • Our patented coating technology protects against common corrosion, extending tone life longer than any other brand’s coated or uncoated strings (Elixir Strings player survey)
  • Medium gauge: .013 .017 .026 .035 .045 .056

User questions & answers

Question: What is the difference between poly web and nano web? Which is warmer, less bright
Answer: I've tried both, and I'd say the polyweb coated strings are less bright. I prefer a brighter sound so I go with the nanoweb.
Question: Why do I pay for amazon prime to get 3 day expedited shipping order these strings and ten days later no strings
Answer: Because Jeff Bezo's needs money to pay for his expensive divorce.
Question: I own a Wasburn D10N guitar and can't decide between the Elixir Light Nanoweb 80/20 Bronze and Phosphor bronze. Any suggestions - spruce top
Answer: I have used almost every brand of strings on my various Martin acoustics. Elixirs stand above the crowd in terms of tone quality. 80/20 bronze bring out the best but need changing about every 2-3 months max for a daily player. Phosphor-bronze have less nuanced tone but still excellent, and seem to last almost twice as long. Recommend 80/20 for the regular player who wants the most "detailed" tone, P-B for more occasional playing and longer life. Discerning players will be happy with either in any case.
Question: What is the difference in sound between the 80/20s and the Phosphor Bronze nano web? I enjoy ease of fingering, warm sound, projection. Which one
Answer: 80/20s bronze will initially be brighter. Phosphor bronzes will be warmer. 80/20s become warmer after use more quickly and may become undesirable to use more quickly because the strings are no longer giving you the desired tone you started with. Phosphor bronzes hold their initial tone longer, but are by design, warmer. Projection (beyond gauge of the strings~heavy vs medium vs light vs extralight) and ease of fingering have much more to do with the guitar you're using, style of playing (use of a pick/how hard you're strumming/finger-picking), and setup (tuning~you drop down a half a step, the strings will have less tension and will be easier to bend).

Product features

Made For Musicians Who Just Want To Play More Music

Ever since pioneering coated string technology in 1997, our reason for making premium guitar strings has remained simple—we want you to have more quality playing time between the hassle and cost of string changes. And gig after gig, session after session, lesson after lesson, we’ve delivered. In fact, experienced players worldwide trust our corrosion-defying strings to keep their tone longer than any other brand’s coated or uncoated strings,* and we’re proud to stand as America’s #1 acoustic guitar string brand.**

We now offer three premium acoustic string options, each featuring our patented coating technology, to help you find exactly the tone and feel you’re looking for. Thanks to the unique differences between metals and coatings, we offer a long-lasting set for any style. From bright and sparkling to rich and robust, the dynamic range of available sound is yours for the picking. Of course, finding the string that’s right for you is a matter of personal preference. So try them out for yourself!

* Elixir strings player survey | ** mI salestrak (us $ vol) | gore, elixir, nanoweb, polyweb, optiweb great tone long life, 'e' icon, and other designs are trademarks of W.L. Gore & Associates.

Less Sweat, Debris, And Finger Squeak

The way your strings sound has a lot to do with what you normally can’t see. While both of our patented coatings reduce noisy finger squeak, they also cut down on a large number of other pesky annoyances common to your average uncoated string. Sweat, skin, dirt, and even air, for example, can do a lot of damage to your strings. And if you live in a hot, humid area, the moisture in the atmosphere can wreak total havoc on your strings’ tone life. But with Elixir Strings, you’re getting world-class protection that’s engineered to endure.

Polyweb Coating Vs NANOWEB Coating

POLYWEB Coating was our first coated string innovation all the way back in the '90s. It tends to warm and mellow the string’s tone and has a fast, slick feel that’s gentle on the fingers, which lets players keep jamming without the strings getting in the way. As a response to players who said they prefer a more traditional feel, NANOWEB Coating was then designed. This ultra-thin coating allows a brighter, crisper tone while offering the same amount of tone-life protection as its predecessor.

Coated Like No Other

Unlike other string brands, Elixir Strings coats the whole string. This protects not only the outer string surface but also the gaps between the windings where common tone-deadening gunk typically builds up in other brands’ coated and uncoated guitar strings. That’s why Elixir strings retain their tone longer than any other brand’s string, coated or uncoated. Simply put, build-up and corrosion kill your tone, and Elixir strings protect against elements that cause build-up and corrosion. All while sounding exactly how you’d expect a premium set of strings to sound.

Anti-Rust Plating

Corrosion protection between wrap wire windings is all well and good, but you may be asking yourself, 'What about the strings that don’t have a wrap wire?' And we’re proud to tell you, don’t worry—we’ve got those covered too. Literally. With our signature Anti-Rust Plating, even your plain steel strings defy the elements. This ensures longer tone life not just for your coated wound strings, but for your entire set. When we say you’ll have more gigging, jamming, touring, or practice time between string changes, we mean it.

High Praise For Elixir Strings From The Pros Themselves

"I put my first set on my guitar, and two weeks later they still sounded awesome."

-Kaki King, Golden Globe-Nominated Guitarist/Composer

High Praise For Elixir Strings From The Pros Themselves

"Sometimes someone comes up with a different idea. It changes all the rules of the game..."

-Bob Taylor of Taylor Guitars

High Praise For Elixir Strings From The Pros Themselves

"I use Elixir Strings in the studio and on stage. They always feel right and seem to complement any guitar I use. They're the perfect string."

-Wayne Sermon of Imagine Dragons

High Praise For Elixir Strings From The Pros Themselves

"I don't have to change them all the time and they still sound fantastic."

-John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin

D’Addario EJ16-3D Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, Light Tension – Corrosion-Resistant Phosphor Bronze, Offers a Warm, Bright and Well-Balanced Acoustic Tone – Pack of 3 Sets

D'Addario

Based on 30 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Pursue your passion with D’Addario’s most popular acoustic guitar string set, the Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings. Pioneered by D’Addario in 1974, phosphor strings are known for superb tone and comfortable playability. These light acoustic guitar strings help you achieve amazing performances, as they offer a warm, bright and balanced acoustic tone with excellent intonation. They have become the stage and studio choice of top guitar professionals worldwide. D’Addario leverages centuries of string-making experience to bring you the most durable, consistent and enduring guitar strings. Made in the USA for the highest quality and performance, only D’Addario strings are sealed inside and out. They feature a precision wound corrosion resistant phosphor bronze wire that is carefully drawn around a hexagonally shaped, high-carbon steel core. The result is long lasting, bright sounding tone with excellent intonation. And thanks to the environmentally , corrosion resistant packaging, the strings are always fresh. The string gauges in this acoustic string set include: Plain Steel .012, .016, Phosphor Bronze Wound .024, .032, .042, .053. The six "edges" of the core wire bite into the softer wrap wire, securing it all along its length. Since 1905, D’Addario has been providing artists and players with the tools they need to perform their magic. As musicians ourselves, we have the unique ability to engineer products that inspire other musicians. The D’Addario family’s vision, creativity, passion and tradition have made us the world’s largest musical instrument string manufacturer. We put our family’s heart, soul and love for making music into every string and instrument accessory we create, and we never stop inspiring performance.

  • MOST POPULAR – Pursue your passion with D’Addario’s most popular acoustic guitar string set, the Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings. Since 1974, phosphor strings have been known for superb, long lasting tone and comfortable playability. They are the choice of professionals worldwide.
  • INSPIRING PERFORMANCE – These light acoustic guitar strings help you achieve amazing performances, as they offer a long lasting, warm, bright and balanced acoustic tone with excellent intonation.
  • CORROSION-RESISTANT – These strings feature a precision wound corrosion resistant phosphor bronze wire that is carefully drawn around a hexagonally shaped, high-carbon steel core. The result is consistent, long lasting tone.
  • STRING GAUGES – The string gauges in this acoustic string set include: Plain Steel .012, .016, Phosphor Bronze Wound .024, .032, .042, .053.
  • MADE IN THE USA – D’Addario leverages centuries of string-making experience and advanced computer-controlled winding technology to bring you the most durable, consistent and long-lasting guitar strings. Made in the USA for the highest quality and performance, only D’Addario strings are sealed inside and out.

User questions & answers

Question: Do these work with first act acoustic guitars
Answer: They should work with most guitars. My guess is they will be way too long, but can be cut down. Make sure you do it after stringing and cut both wires on the wound strings so they don't unravel.I had to cut off about 8 inches on my acoustic Seagull.
Question: Have a EJ200 Epiphone. Would like to replace strings. What type of D'Addario strings do I use
Answer: I have a 45 year old Martin d-28 I use the extra light strings EJ 15 3 Dbecause I like to fingerpickthey have a very good warm soundif your guitar is fairly new try the light gauge strings they sound very good too and you can buy 3 packs for under $15 at Amazon. D'Addario makes a good string and I find they last a long time. I highly recommend!
Question: I bought these for my son and the first two strings broke when he was putting them on. We are on the third set in twenty minutes
Answer: When you put on a string, you have to allow enough slack for the string to coil around the tuner post. Feed the string through and leave enough slack so you can pull the string about 4 inches above the fret board and then slowly wind it up and as it tightens, pause once in a while let the string stretch. Some strings can take a day to stretch, some don't. Be patient. Good luck...but if you don't leave slack for coiling strings will break.
Question: So does this come with all 6 strings? Im completely new to guitars
Answer: Yes, this is a full set.Specifically this is a set of 3. If you want just one select the 1 pack. (I tried to include a link but Amazon defaults it to the 3 pack for some reason)It is possible to look up and find individual strings, but honestly that ends up being more difficult in my opinion and for the cost you might as well grab a set.I am fairly new to guitars as well, so let me just take a moment to say these strings are highly recommended. Great choice.

Product features

D'Addario's Most Popular Acoustic Guitar String

Pioneered in 1974 and still revered today, Phosphor Bronze has become synonymous with warm, well-balanced acoustic tone. Phosphor Bronze strings are precision wound onto a carefully drawn, hexagonally-shaped high carbon steel core. The result is long-lasting, bright sounding tone with excellent intonation.

PHOSPHOR BRONZE FEATURES:

  • D'Addario's most popular acoustic guitar string set
  • Warm and well-balanced acoustic tone
  • Corrosion-resistant packaging
  • All D'Addario strings are designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA

SIX SIDES OF STABILITY.

Precision drawn hexagonal core was pioneered by D’Addario. This innovation allows the wrap wire to grip the core for superior dimensional stability, enhanced durability, and precise intonation.

EXACT STANDARDS, EXTRAORDINARY SOUNDS.

D'Addario's in-house wire drawing machines produce musical instrument wire to our exact specifications. Control over materials, equipment, and quality allows us to deliver high performance products.

WOUND TO PERFECTION 700,000 TIMES A DAY.

String winding equipment is designed and built by D'Addario's engineering team, guaranteeing a production range of 500,000 to 700,000 strings per day. Digitally-controlled string winding machines ensure productivity, accuracy, and consistency.

Ernie Ball 2146 Earthwood Medium Light Acoustic Phosphor Bronze String Set (12 - 54)

Ernie Ball

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ernie Ball Earthwood Phosphor Bronze acoustic guitar strings are produced with an exclusive phosphor bronze wrap wire. Engineered to meet the demands of acoustic musicians worldwide, these concert quality strings provide deep, rich bass notes with clear bright trebles. Ernie Ball Earthwood Phosphor Bronze acoustic guitar strings are played by The Counting Crows, The Edge, and Maroon 5 amongst many other touring musicians. Made with the finest and freshest raw materials, all Ernie Ball strings are hermetically sealed to ensure your strings stay as fresh as the day they were made. Gauges .012 .016 .024w .032 .044 .054. Part number 2146.

  • Rich Expressive Sound
  • Excellent Clarity
  • Made in California, U.S.A. Featuring the finest and freshest materials.
  • Made from 92% copper, 7.7% tin, 0.3% phosphorus wire
  • Element Shield Packaging Prolongs string life and keeps strings as fresh as the day they were made
  • Previously packaged as Regular Slinky Acoustic
  • Packaging may vary from pictured

User questions & answers

Question: Can I put nylon strings on a guitar that use to have metal
Answer: I've tried both, and I'd say the polyweb coated strings are less bright. I prefer a brighter sound so I go with the nanoweb.
Question: Are the first 3 strings nylon
Answer: Because Jeff Bezo's needs money to pay for his expensive divorce.
Question: What would be the best string size to use on a used acoustic guitar to be played by a 9 year old boy
Answer: I have used almost every brand of strings on my various Martin acoustics. Elixirs stand above the crowd in terms of tone quality. 80/20 bronze bring out the best but need changing about every 2-3 months max for a daily player. Phosphor-bronze have less nuanced tone but still excellent, and seem to last almost twice as long. Recommend 80/20 for the regular player who wants the most "detailed" tone, P-B for more occasional playing and longer life. Discerning players will be happy with either in any case.
Question: What would be the downside of putting these strings on an old classical guitar I bought for $25. Would it cause the neck to bow
Answer: 80/20s bronze will initially be brighter. Phosphor bronzes will be warmer. 80/20s become warmer after use more quickly and may become undesirable to use more quickly because the strings are no longer giving you the desired tone you started with. Phosphor bronzes hold their initial tone longer, but are by design, warmer. Projection (beyond gauge of the strings~heavy vs medium vs light vs extralight) and ease of fingering have much more to do with the guitar you're using, style of playing (use of a pick/how hard you're strumming/finger-picking), and setup (tuning~you drop down a half a step, the strings will have less tension and will be easier to bend).

Product features

Earthwood Phosphor Bronze

Made from 92% copper, 7.7% tin, 0.3% phosphorus wire wrapped around tin plated hex shaped steel core wire. These guitar strings have a light orange, gold color and provide a mellow, ringing sound, with excellent clarity. Available in Extra Light (10-50), Light (11-52), Medium Light (12-54), Medium (13-56), Rock and Blues (10-52), and 12-String Light (9-46).

Plain String

All plain strings feature a series of lock twists to secure the wire around the ball end preventing slippage and ensuring a long lasting string within minimal break in time.

Wound String

Earthwood Phosphor Bronze strings are precision wound with phosphor bronze wire providing a warm, balanced tone with superior intonation and consistency.

Core Wire

The core is made from brass plated high carbon steel hex wire providing excellent durability.

Martin MA540T Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 92/8 Phosphor Bronze Light 12-54 (3-Pack Bundle)

C.F. Martin

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price

Product description

From Martin: Martin’s next generation Lifespan 2.0 strings are engineered using a new, patented technology only available from Martin. This technology was developed to protect the core wire and the wrap wire to prevent corrosion without compromising tone – the single most important attribute of the guitar strings. Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 strings look better, sound better, and feel better, providing a smooth playing experience that reduces finger drag. We invested two years developing our next generation Lifespan 2.0 strings to ensure they will sound better, longer than any other extended-life string on the market. Gauges: 12-16-25-32-42-54

  • This bundle includes three packs of Martin MA540T Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 92/8 Phosphor Bronze Light 12-54 strings.

Ernie Ball Earthwood Light 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Set, .011 - .052

Ernie Ball

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Made from 80% copper, 20% zinc wire wrapped around hex shaped tin plated high carbon steel core wire. One of the most popular acoustic guitar strings as used by the Eagles, Elvis Costello and Joe Bonamassa. Ernie Ball 80/20 bronze acoustic strings provide a crisp, bright sound with pleasing overtones. Gauges .011, .015, .022w, .030, .042, .052. Part number 2004

  • Wound Strings are 80% copper, 20% zinc wire wrapped around hex shaped tin plated steel core wire
  • Plain strings are made of specially tempered tin plated high carbon steel
  • The most popular acoustic guitar string alloy provides well balanced projection with crisp pleasing highs
  • Element Shield Packaging Prolongs string life and keeps strings as fresh as the day they were made
  • Made in California, U.S.A. Featuring the finest and freshest materials.

User questions & answers

Question: I am thinking of getting this extra light set for the reason that it is easier on the fingers. is there better alternative to it? f.e. silk $ steel
Answer: I have a 614ce and these are perfect! The custom lights (.11) are also acceptable but you may lose some volume, still they sound good. I would play around with gauges and get the best feel and sound for you! Taylors are high class!
Question: would these work for an electric acoustic
Answer: This is a full set of 6 strings for acoustic guitar.
Question: Trying to get something for my husband. I see the one labeled 12-string. But he also needs a 6 string. Is that just the basic package
Answer: On the individual strings' paper packets, only the wound strings (G-3 through E-6) have "Nanoweb coating" text. The E-1 and B-2 strings say "anti-rust plain steel" instead.
Question: Size: 2 Pack What does it mean? Is it on sale you can get 2 packs or "2 pack" means for something else? Thanks
Answer: 80/20 is very bright and crisp... Phosphor bronze is far more articulate and warm. And over all a more balanced sound. Hence why they cost a bit more than 80/20. As for poly vs nano? Poly has more coating to protect the strings.. But dull the sound a bit. Nano has less coating but last a bit less than poly. Hope that helps.

Product features

Earthwood 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Strings

Made from 80 percent copper, 20 percent zinc wire wrapped around hex shaped brass plated high carbon steel core wire. One of the most popular acoustic guitar strings as used by the Eagles, Elvis Costello and Joe Bonamassa. Ernie Ball 80/20 bronze acoustic strings provide a crisp, bright sound with pleasing overtones. Available in Extra Light (10-50), Light (11-52), Medium Light (12-54), Medium (13-56), Rock and Blues (10-52), 12-String Light (9-46), and 12-String Medium (11-28).

Plain String

All plain strings feature a series of lock twists to secure the wire around the ball end preventing slippage and ensuring a long lasting string within minimal break in time.

Wound String

Earthwood 80/20 Bronze strings are precision wound with 80/20 bronze wire providing a bright, balanced tone with superior intonation and consistency.

Core Wire

The core is made from brass plated high carbon steel hex wire providing excellent durability.

Martin Retro Acoustic Guitar Strings, Medium - .013-.056 (MM13)

MARTIN

Based on 46 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Martin retro strings are the real deal. Not an imitation. With Martin retro strings, You get one tough set that offers true, consistent tone and sounds like nothing else on the market. Martin’s solid nickel/copper alloy blend provides a reduced pick attack that allows the guitar’s tone woods to be heard, not overshadowed. Martin’s proprietary Monel wrap wire is naturally corrosion resistant, so you can play them for a long time with nothing to get in the way of your music. Discover your guitar’s true voice.

retro strings offer enhanced longevity with warm natural tone, and they sound great plugged in.

  • Nickel/copper alloy acoustic Guitar strings
  • Monel Wrapped strings naturally resist corrosion
  • Medium Gauge; .013/ .017/ .026/ .035/ .045/ .056
  • Enhanced longevity
  • Natural WARM tone
  • Sounds great plugged in
  • Tension @ 190.94
  • Made in Mexico

D'Addario EJ11 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, Light, 12-53

D'Addario

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings are sometimes referred to as Brass strings. 80/20 Bronze strings are known for their crisp bright tone, and are popular with stage and studio professionals.

From the Manufacturer

D'Addario's best selling 80/20 Bronze gauge, EJ11s offer the ideal balance of volume, projection and comfortable playability.

80/20 Bronze, commonly referred to as brass, is the original acoustic string alloy selected by John D'Addario Sr. and John D'Angelico in the 1930s. 80/20 Bronze strings are popular for recording due to their crisp, deep and projecting tone and appeal to many traditionalists and vintage enthusiasts for their historical significance. All D'Addario acoustic strings are wound on a hexagonally shaped, high carbon steel core, resulting in long lasting, bright sounding tone with excellent intonation.

D'Addario, the world's largest manufacturer of musical instrument strings, is known as The Players Choice with a reputation for unsurpassed quality and consistency. D'Addario's innovative, packaging reduces waste and provides protection from corrosion. All D'Addario strings are manufactured in the U.S.A. using proprietary, digitally controlled, state-of-the-art machinery for unmatched performance, set after set.

  • D'Addario's most popular acoustic gauge, ideal balance of tone and playability
  • Extra-bright tone mixed with deep and projecting bottom end
  • String Gauges; Plain steel .012, .016, Nickel Wound .024, .032, .042, .053
  • Corrosion resistant packaging for fresh strings, always!
  • Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance

User questions & answers

Question: Does this set have a wound third
Answer: You can. You will need to do a neck adjustment to makeup for the lower tension. These strings are metal that the question was asked under.
Question: I am very sensitive to high pitches and tones. I'm looking for warm low mellow strings. Which set of strings (type and gauge) do you recommend
Answer: No, they are plain steel as in other acoustic sets. Nylon would only be found on classical sets.
Question: how many strings in the pack
Answer: The lighter the guage...the easier to bend. The easier to bend...the harder to control. Since its an acoustic guitar, i would start with 10's ...try .10 to .46. Thats a pretty standard guage. He should be able to tell if he would like a smaller guage in which case go to 9's. Better yet....take him to a guitar shop and let him try some different guage strings. If hes just strumming, he may like the 10's. When hes ready for more sophisticated play, and until his hands get larger and stronger, he may need the 9's. Happy playing!
Question: are these ball end or do these come in ball end versions
Answer: I have never had a neck bow on me but I feel it is safer to go no smaller than .010 on acoustic guitars. One of my acoustics has delicate, thin wood and is doing fine with these strings. You'll be OK.

Product features

A HISTORIC SOUND

80/20 Bronze is the original acoustic alloy introduced by John D'Addario Sr. and John D'Angelico in the 1930s, popular for recording due to its crisp, deep and projecting tone. 80/20 Bronze strings appeal to many traditionalists and vintage enthusiasts for their historical significance.

80/20 BRONZE FEATURES:

  • Bright tone mixed with deep and projecting bottom end
  • Corrosion-resistant packaging
  • All D'Addario strings are designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA

SIX SIDES OF STABILITY.

Precision drawn hexagonal core was pioneered by D’Addario. This innovation allows the wrap wire to grip the core for superior dimensional stability, enhanced durability, and precise intonation.

EXACT STANDARDS, EXTRAORDINARY SOUNDS.

D'Addario's in-house wire drawing machines produce musical instrument wire to our exact specifications. Control over materials, equipment, and quality allows us to deliver high performance products.

WOUND TO PERFECTION 700,000 TIMES A DAY.

String winding equipment is designed and built by D'Addario's engineering team, guaranteeing a production range of 500,000 to 700,000 strings per day. Digitally-controlled string winding machines ensure productivity, accuracy, and consistency.

D'Addario Acoustic Guitar Strings (NB1253)

D'Addario

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

D'Addario's premium uncoated acoustic string set that provides a crisp and clear sound to accentuate the unique tone of your guitar. NB1253 delivers the ideal balance of volume, projection and comfortable playability. Nickel Bronze strings are the premium uncoated acoustic strings by D’Addario. Featuring an innovative combination of nickel-plated phosphor bronze wrapped onto a high carbon NY steel core, these strings bring out the unique tonal characteristics of any guitar, allowing its natural voice to truly shine. Nickel Bronze delivers unrivaled clarity, resonance and projection, as well as outstanding balance and harmonically rich overtones. Players will also enjoy improved tuning stability and higher break resistance, thanks to D’Addario-engineered NY Steel cores and plain steel strings.

  • Delivers a full tonal spectrum, revealing the unique tonal qualities of your acoustic guitar
  • Increased corrosion resistance for a longer lasting uncoated string
  • Feature D’Addario’s exclusive high-carbon NY steel for unprecedented strength and tuning stability
  • Environmentally-friendly, corrosion-resistant packaging keeps strings fresh
  • Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance

User questions & answers

Question: Do you recommend these d'addario nickel bronze strings for strumming ? (vs d'addario phosphor bronze
Answer: I am a strummer and I love these string. I have them on both my Taylor and my Martin. They have a rich tone whether picked, plucked, or strummed. I was one of the beta testers of these strings, sense then they are the only strings that I have used.
Question: is the 3rd string wound
Answer: Yes! A wound 24 third string
Question: What light and medium and custom light means
Answer: Light and medium are the width of the strings. Medium strings resonate more but are harder to hold down. Light strings are easier to play but can buzz a little if played too hard. The custom strings try and give you the best of both worlds...lighter bass strings that are easier to play and thicker treble strings which resonate a little better. I like the customs myself.
Question: is therea ball at end of the string
Answer: Yes they are made for steel string acoustic guitars

Product features

Nickel Bronze

The acoustic string that delivers balanced clarity, outstanding resonance, and enhanced projection to reveal the real, natural sound of your instrument.

Tone Revealed

Nickel Bronze features nickel-plated phosphor bronze wire wrapped around a high carbon NY Steel core. This unique combination preserves the familiar low end depth and warmth of phosphor bronze, while boosting mid and high range frequencies to deliver greater clarity, projection, and harmonically rich overtones.

Enhanced Pitch Stability

Nickel Bronze strings are engineered with NY Steel, D’Addario’s proprietary high-carbon steel wire that increases pitch stability, break strength, and overall string life, so you can spend less time tuning and more time revealing the unique sound of your instrument.

Martin Guitar Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 MA540T, 92/8 Phosphor Bronze, Treated Light-Gauge Strings

MARTIN

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Martin Guitar Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 Strings provide unrivaled quality, craftsmanship, and tone for your acoustic guitar. Designed to produce true, consistent tone, these light-gauge strings provide excellent tuning stability and playability so your guitar can stand up to rigorous practice and performance schedules. Made from 92/8 phosphor bronze, these strings feature a patented anti-corrosion treatment that protects the core and wrap wire from corrosion. This pack of professional-grade guitar strings will last through long jam sessions, late-night campfire songs, and plenty of picking. It's an ultra-reliable set of strings that you can take on tour or keep in the studio.



Designed to bring out your guitar's true tone, these 92/8 phosphor bronze guitar strings can be used for fingerstyle blues, Americana, country, bluegrass, ragtime, and many more styles. With this pack, you'll receive 6 guitar strings designed for optimal playing performance. The low E string measures 0.054", the A string measures 0.042", the D string measures 0.032", the G string measures 0.025", the B string measures 0.016", and the high E string measures 0.012". This total set of strings features a tension of 168.5, making it easy to get a rich, bright tone with a softer feel. Add these professional guitar strings to your touring and performing equipment today!



Martin Guitar has been producing high-quality, musician-choice guitars and guitar accessories since 1833. The Martin Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 Guitar Strings are the real deal—not an imitation. Discover your guitar's true voice with this professional-grade guitar string pack.

  • BRIGHT TONES: Martin Authentic Acoustic Strings provide excellent tuning stability and playability with bright and rich tones. Discover your guitar's true voice with this professional-grade guitar string pack.
  • TREATED FOR A LONG LIFE: These heavy-duty guitar strings are engineered using a new, patented anti-corrosion treatment that protects the core and wrap wire without compromising tone, tune, or feel.
  • STRING SOUNDS: Designed to bring out a full and balanced tone from your guitar, these phosphor bronze acoustic guitar strings can be used for fingerpicking, pick playing, and other methods. Play with these strings for any genre—rock, bluegrass, country, folk, blues, and more.
  • LIGHT ACOUSTIC STRINGS: Measuring from a 0.012" high E string to a 0.054" low E string, these are high-quality acoustic guitar strings that brighten the natural tuning of your guitar, including tenor, mid-tones, and bass. They feature a tension of 168.5.
  • AUTHENTIC ACOUSTIC TREATED: With Martin Authentic Acoustic, you get a total set of strings designed for performance and playability. Martin guitars and accessories remain the choice for musicians around the world for their unrivaled quality, craftsmanship, and tone.

User questions & answers

Question: Are the strings, lite or medium
Answer: Short answer, yes they should be fine. Long answer, the comparability between strings and guitars doesnt matter, its the string slots that in the nut that matter. The les Paul's usually use bigger strings anyway.
Question: how wide
Answer: Slinky is just a line of strings from Ernie Ball, the "Slinkier" they are the thinner they are, regular Slinky are 10 gauge strings, super slinky are 9s, and "Not Even Slinky" strings are 12s (the number represents the gauge of the lightest string in the set).
Question: What is the difference between light, custom light, etc? I just receivrd my new Martin acoustic snd want to get a spare identical pair
Answer: All 6 of the strings are in the pack, they just put each string into its own paper envelope for easy identification. The ball-ends aren't color-coded like D'addario. Hope this helps. :)
Question: What are these strings coated with? Leaves black greasy residue on my fingers & causes indentations in fingers with black stuff inside
Answer: Put a hook on one end. Unless your record bass has a floyd rose on it's back, and it pulls back too hard, you'll catch it!

Product features

Martin Authentic Acoustic Guitar Strings

  • Excellent tuning stability
  • Engineered to resist corrosion
  • Highest tensile-strength core wire, tin-plated on all six strings for added corrosion resistance
  • Great playability

Martin Strings

Our goal has always been to make the best guitars possible – guitars that people fall in love with over and over again. We believe that the strings, the very last critical ingredient to the guitar making process, are the vocal cords of any fine guitar. This is why we make our own.

Over 175 Years of Martin

The company, founded in the U.S. has been continuously family owned and operated for six generations. Currently headed by Chairman and CEO Christian Frederick Martin IV, the company has been handed down five times since it was started by German immigrant Christian Frederick Martin Sr. in 1833. "Our signature product and Martin's seamless tradition of quality to this day remain a significant source of pride for my family and all of those who are involved in crafting these extraordinary instruments," said Martin Guitar Chairman and CEO Christian Frederick Martin IV. Embraced by artists all over the world, the Martin guitar has helped define virtually all genres of music, from classical and country to blues, folk and acoustic rock.

The list of Martin players, past and present, reads like a Who's Who of the musical world and includes such legends as Elvis Presley, Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, John Mayer and countless others.

Martin Guitar MA550 Authentic Acoustic Medium Guitar Strings, 92/8 Phosphor Bronze

MARTIN

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Martin Authentic Acoustic strings provide unrivaled quality, craftsmanship, and tone for your acoustic guitar. Designed to produce true, consistent tone, these medium-gauge strings provide excellent tuning stability and playability so your guitar can stand up to rigorous practice and performance schedules. Made from 92/8 phosphor bronze, these strings feature Martin's highest-quality wrap wire for enhanced longevity and durability. They are naturally corrosion resistant so they can hold up after hours and hours of playing. This pack of professional-grade guitar strings will last through long jam sessions, late-night campfire songs, and plenty of picking.



To make these strings extra-durable and stable, we start with our highest-tensile-strength core wire and then tin-plate it on all 6 strings for added corrosion resistance. When coupled with our highest-quality wrap wire, you get a consistent tone that you can count on song after song. Designed to bring out your guitar's true tone, these 92/8 phosphor bronze guitar strings can be used for fingerstyle blues, Americana, country, bluegrass, ragtime, and many more styles. With this pack, you'll receive 6 medium-gauge guitar strings. The low E string measures 0.056", the A string measures 0.045", the D string measures 0.035", the G string measures 0.026", the B string measures 0.017", and the high E string measures 0.013". This pack of medium-gauge strings features a tension of 190.9, and they make it easy to get a rich, bright tone out of your guitar.



Martin Guitar has been producing high-quality, musician-choice guitars and guitar accessories since 1833. The Martin Authentic Acoustic strings are the real deal—not an imitation. Discover your guitar's true voice with this professional-grade guitar string pack.

  • BRIGHT TONES: Martin Authentic Acoustic Strings provide excellent tuning stability and playability with bright and rich tones. Discover your guitar's true voice with this professional-grade guitar string pack.
  • SUPERIOR STRINGS: These strings are engineered to thrive during rigorous practice and performance schedules. These silk and steel folk strings feature our highest tensile-strength core wire paired with quality wrap wire for corrosion resistance and tuning stability.
  • VERSATILE STRING SOUNDS: Designed to bring out a consistent and true tone from your guitar, these guitar strings can be used for fingerpicking, flat picking, and other methods. Use these strings in any genre—country, bluegrass, folk, blues, rock, and more.
  • MEDIUM ACOUSTIC STRINGS: Measuring from a 0.013" high E string to a 0.056" low E string, these are high-quality acoustic guitar strings that brighten the natural tuning of your guitar, including tenor, mid-tones, and bass. They feature a tension of 190.9.
  • AUTHENTIC ACOUSTIC: With Martin Authentic Acoustic, you get a set of strings designed for performance and playability. Martin guitars and accessories remain the choice for musicians around the world for their unrivaled quality, craftsmanship, and tone.

User questions & answers

Question: Martin guitar ma550 authentic acoustic medium guitar strings, 92/8 phosphor bronze, are these ball end
Answer: they are packed in plastic bags
Question: Will they fit a MG
Answer: My Guitar is a Yamaha and they fit fine.
Question: Martin silk and steel strings
Answer: Should be no problem. After installing new strings, you will have to tune often until the new strings stretch out a little.

Product features

Martin Authentic Acoustic Guitar Strings

  • Excellent tuning stability
  • Engineered to resist corrosion
  • Highest tensile-strength core wire, tin-plated on all six strings for added corrosion resistance
  • Great playability

Martin Strings

Our goal has always been to make the best guitars possible – guitars that people fall in love with over and over again. We believe that the strings, the very last critical ingredient to the guitar making process, are the vocal cords of any fine guitar. This is why we make our own.

Over 175 Years of Martin

The company, founded in the U.S. has been continuously family owned and operated for six generations. Currently headed by Chairman and CEO Christian Frederick Martin IV, the company has been handed down five times since it was started by German immigrant Christian Frederick Martin Sr. in 1833. "Our signature product and Martin's seamless tradition of quality to this day remain a significant source of pride for my family and all of those who are involved in crafting these extraordinary instruments," said Martin Guitar Chairman and CEO Christian Frederick Martin IV. Embraced by artists all over the world, the Martin guitar has helped define virtually all genres of music, from classical and country to blues, folk and acoustic rock.

The list of Martin players, past and present, reads like a Who's Who of the musical world and includes such legends as Elvis Presley, Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, John Mayer and countless others.

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