Electric guitar strings > Info > Selecting Guitar Strings

Selecting Guitar Strings

There are more things to take into account when you're changing your guitar strings than you may realize.  The question extends well beyond the brand and cots, and into what sort of sound you'd like and what sort of material you're comfortable playing on.  Whether you're pplaying classic guitar, electric guitar, standard acoustic, or something else will all mean that you'll need to look for different features in your hunt for the perfect guitar strings.

First of all, keep in mind that certain guitars require different types of material.  A classic guitar, for example, will require nylon strings.  On the other hand, electric will typically do much better with some brand of metal strings – such as chrome series strings.  The exact type of string that you play on will also be something that you'll want to suit to your own tastes.  Some prefer flat wound strings, while others prefer a bulkier setup.

The gauge of your strings should also be adjusted depending on your age and playing ability.  Younger players who are new to guitars may want to stick to a lower gauge of guitar strings (such as eight gauge).  Other new players may want a nine or ten gauge.  On the opposite end of the scale, those who are playing jazz may want heavier strings for the rich sound quality, while those playing metal may want to go for lighter strings so they can truly shred.