My Overall Rating:

Ernie Ball Ernesto Palla is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK

I love the black and gold tones of these Ernesto Palla strings, I play classical guitar and the bluesy sound I get from the nylon strings is perfect – works well every time. I like how stiff the strings are, as a intermediate player, it gives me great control over the sound than some of the other classical strings I’ve tried, and since I’m still working on my sound and learning, I didn’t want to invest a lot in a top-quality set of strings, for my needs and budget, these strings work out very well.

Ernesto Palla strings have the ball end, so it is a good fit for someone who isn’t as adept at replacing their guitar strings. I like how clear and crisp the sound is when I use these and while they don’t produce nearly the volume of some strings, I found it great because I’d prefer to control the volume more and produce a more intimate, bluesy sound and of all the classical guitar strings I’ve used, these give me that elusive tone I was looking for.

With the old guitar my grandfather gave me, it’s been a treat learning how to play and remembering that lonesome twang he was able to produce. Since I’ve switched to these classical guitar strings, I feel like I’m getting closer to the sound my granddad used to make and it’s been a real blast, especially these last few nights, being able to sit outside or just kick back on my couch and play. Every set of nylon strings gives you a different kind of sound, it’s true, but I just love the slightly muted sounds I get from these strings, it really is amazing and they’ve made an amazing difference in the way I play.

The strongest selling points of Ernesto Palla strings would have start with the sound – kind of low and bluesy, not too loud, and a little bit crisp and clean when you need it. It’s an unusual blend of folk, country, and blues if you play them right. Second thing, I have to admit, is what a value these are. I’ve paid a lot more money for classical guitar strings I wasn’t nearly as happy with. Sad, but true. In this economy, you have to factor in value and for the money, I have not found nylon strings that work as well for me. Last selling point for these – you get a great look with your classic guitar – the black and gold colors of the strings look as good as they sound.

The only cons I can really think of are how firm the strings are and if you’re used to a less firm string, it could be a big adjustment for you. Just like the overall sound, it what you are comfortable with and I’m very comfortable using Ernesto Palla strings. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Ernie Ball Ernesto Palla
Model	2409
Type	Nylon Classical Strings
Gauge	First = .028, Second = .032, Third = .040, Fourth = .030, Fifth = .036, Sixth = .042
Ball end	First, second and third strings are black ball end, gold ball end fourth, fifth, and sixth
Wire wrap	80/20 bronze alloy wrapped around a nylon floss core
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

A clip from YouTube on Ernie Ball Ernesto Palla nylon strings.

My Overall Rating:

Dean Markley Blue Steel Strings is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

I had never try Dean Markley strings before and out of curiosity, I decided to give it a shot on these Cryogenic processed Blue Steel strings. Seriously, I didn’t put too much of expectation but to my surprise, these strings turned out to be pretty good!

At my first impression, DM Blue Steel Acoustic Strings produced bright and mellow sound. They are easy to install and the action is gentle on my fingertips. This is very useful if you are a guitar beginner with no callouses on your fingers. They are light and sound very nice with fingerpicking style. And these strings also hold a tune very well and stay in tune after playing. They did last quite a while if compare to my other D’Addario or GHS strings.

To me, Dean Markley Blue Steel produces rich and big sound at moderate levels. These strings are quite touch-sensitive and expressive. They are worth for a try if you looking for alternatives to your current acoustic strings. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Dean Markley
Model	Blue Steel Acoustic
Type	Acoustic Strings
Coated / Non-coated	Non-coated
Gauge	2034
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Other user’s comment:

Maverick B.

I bought these because I wanted some heavier strings on my guitar and I read that they ring out differently. Whoa, I was supprised on how clear and metalic these strings rang as I started tuning my “travel” guitar. It almost made it sound like a full sized guitar. Totally recommend these type strings for anyone looking to liven up their guitar sound. [Read full review..]

B. Astrup

I have always liked these strings, every time I try something else I wish I had gotten these. Sound is a subjective matter, I just happen to like the sound of these and their action. [Read full review]

A clip from YouTube on Dean Markley Blue Steel Strings.

My Overall Rating:

Martin M130 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK

When learning to play the guitar there are very few teachers who are going to tell you the benefits of having the right strings to go with it, which is a pity as the Martin m130 may just make the difference that you – and your neighbors – have been waiting to hear.

Have you ever picked up your guitar and wondered why the sound coming out of it bared little to no resemblance to the Jimi Hendrix riff that you’re trying to play? Some people may say that it’s down to a lack of practice, a lack of skill, or even a lack of any sort of musical ability, but that’s not always the case; sometimes you just need the right equipment to get the right sounds coming out, and that’s where switching to silk and steel strings has helped many people out.

Refusing to believe that I wasn’t going to be the next Chuck Berry – and clearly giving my age away – I would practice for ages on my old four string guitar, but nothing really helped. It wasn’t until some years later that I discover that it should actually have six strings, and that the strings I did have weren’t all that good for a beginner – that and the previously mentioned lack of any musical talent. I started to look around for a full set of strings that would be easier to play, wouldn’t have a dull sound to them, wouldn’t sound as twangy, and would make me sound like a rock-star; well, the first three things would do, for a start.

I soon discovered that many people were recommending switching to the Martin guitar strings, and the Martin m130 silk and steel strings in particular. I thought ‘what the hell’, they were cheap enough, and the neighbors couldn’t be any more upset with me than they already were, so I decided to get a set.

Now, the Martin m130 silk and steel strings seem to work on most guitars, but it may still pay to check that they work with your guitar, and they wouldn’t instantly make you sound like the next Carlos Santana, but they were pretty much the only ‘drawbacks’ that I could see when I was doing my research in to them; but hey, you could say the same thing about any strings that you settle on getting, not just the Martin guitar strings.

As far as it making a difference to my actual playing, well, I always thought I was good, so you’d really have to ask the neighbors. The Martin m130 strings did seem to have a better feel to them, were easier to use with just my fingers, and produced the type of sound that I was aiming for, a more sort of melodic sound; having a full complement of strings also made a bit of a difference, but I was still just using the same three chords anyway.

So, will Martin m130 silk and steel strings make you in to the next Eric Clapton? Well, that all sort of depends on the commitment you put in to your practice, the talent that you have to start with, and getting the correct number of string for your guitar; but switching from what you already have, to the Martin guitar strings, and especially the Martin m130 silk and steel strings, is going to make a difference no matter what your current level and ability is – take it from me, the new Slash. Read more reviews.
 

Brand	Martin
Model	M130
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	Silk & Steel
Gauge	Light, .0115; .014; .023; .028; .038; .047
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

A clip from YouTube on Martin M130 Silk and Steel Strings.

My Overall Rating:

Elixir Acoustic Guitar Strings are currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

Elixir acoustic guitar strings are the best-made strings I have ever played on. After burning through strings on my Taylor GA, I decided I had to try something new. Most acoustic guitar strings fall out of tune easily, sound tinny and artificial when you first put them on, and then just after they start feeling comfortable and sounding warm, they begin to rust, or the coating starts to fray around the soundhole.

I was beginning to get used to the idea of putting up with these facts for the rest of my guitar-playing life, and then I decided to give Elixir strings a try. These guitar strings sound wonderful from the get-go, so they’re especially great to have if you break a string halfway through a set, and they retain their vibrant sound for ages. I do think they sound best after a couple days of breaking them in though, like most strings.

Elixir uses a nanoweb coating on some of their acoustic strings, a super thin coating which makes them feel and sound like uncoated strings. They also tend to last longer than polyweb coated strings. In my opinion, nanowebs feel better on the fingers, and make playing far smoother and easier. Elixir makes their nanoweb strings without sacrificing tone, and that’s something that is hard to find.

The tone of these Nanoweb strings is crisp and rich, and differs with the type of acoustic string. For instance, the nanowebs give a brighter sound, while the phosphor bronze strings have a deeper tone to them. I like to alter the strings based on the type of music I’m playing—bluegrass vs. blues or jazz, for instance. I’ll want the brighter sound for bluegrass, and deeper for jazz. All of Elixir’s strings have that same wonderful playability and rich tone though, so there’s a pack of strings to suit anyone!

One of my pet peeves is guitar strings that won’t hold a tune. Few things are as annoying as playing a gig, and gradually falling out of tune with the rest of the band. Luckily, these particular guitar strings hold their tune longer than most others I’ve played with. That, if for no other reason, makes Elixir strings worth buying.

Elixir has excellent customer service, too. If there’s ever a problem with a pack of strings, or even a single string within a pack, if you let them know, they’ll send you a whole new pack! The company knows they have high-quality strings, so they have no qualms about making sure their customers are satisfied.

Now that I’ve tried Elixir strings, I won’t be buying any other kind. They’re the best deal I could hope for, for the price. They are a little more expensive than some other brands, but the fact that they last more than twice as long, not to mention that they play and sound better, seals the deal for me. Elixir acoustic guitar strings are the way to go for anyone who wants to get the most out of their guitar. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Elixir
Model	11102
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	80/20 Bronze with Nanoweb coating
Gauge	Medium: .013, .017, .026, .035, .045, .056
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Steven M.
I have over 15 years playing experience and I would not have any other strings on my guitar. I have messed around with many different brands and even the $1/pack I found online (which I wanted to change half way through a set) but there is simply nothing else out there at this price which lasts as long, sounds as good and makes playing such a pleasure as these. [Read full review]

A clip from YouTube on Elixir 80/20 Nanoweb acoustic guitar strings.

My Overall Rating:

D’Addario EJ17 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Playing acoustic guitar can be an awesome experience. Whether you are playing for fun or playing to expand your musical knowledge, you will always need to have the best guitar strings possible. Having weak and frail strings will mean that you will have to change them frequently. Picking quality strings will ensure that you can play day after day without worrying about changing strings monthly. High quality strings will mean that you will get the best possible sound for your guitar. The D’Addario EJ17 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings is an example of high quality strings that provides the best sound and clarity possible.

The D’Addario EJ17 is a type of string that posses a heavier tension that provides users with better strumming capabilities and sound quality. Guitarists love the rich and full acoustic tone the D’Addario EJ17 delivered. You will be surprise to find these acoustic guitar strings sound as vibrant as some of the non-coated strings. They hold the tune well and last a reasonable amount of time.

The quality of the strings is unparallel to others and no other company can come close to their reputation. Made from high carbon steel, the D’Addario Strings will last for months without losing sound quality or tension.

Another great feature of D’Addario EJ17 is their new packaging style. Instead of being wrapped into paper sleeves individually, the strings are now bundled together into a single plastic bag. This is a great move from the string maker to contribute some effort to our environment.

Here are some of the pros and cons I found about D’Addario EJ17 strings.

Pros:

• The strings produce a nice warm sound
• The range of sound is excellent
• String durability and long lasting quality
• Price of the strings is very affordable
• Consistent sound quality

Cons:

• A finish on the string comes off after a while from playing

The D’Addario EJ17 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings is a brand that is often looked upon as the best acoustic strings for musicians to buy. As you can see, the sound and build quality is something that most users will applaud. As always, sometimes there are issues with specific users, but the vast majority of users prefer this string. If you are looking for a new string to try or need just a quality replacement, you should take a look and try out any brand of D’Addario guitar strings. You will not be disappointed and you may become a D’Addario user for life. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	D'Addario
Model	EJ17
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	Phosphor Bronze
Gauge	Plain Steel .013, .017, Phosphor Bronze Wound .026, .035, .045, .056
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Sledman

Not much to say here. Strings are a very personal thing to a guitar player. You need to try different gauges and brands till you find the ones that work best for you and your style. These are the string of choice for my acoustic and have been for many many years. I replace my strings about once a month with casual play and proper maintenance so why run to the store or pay for shipping 10 times a year. The strings are great, priced great and was on sale which made it even better. There is less waste with the packaging which help the planet just a bit so that’s good too. [Read full review]

A clip from YouTube on D’Addario EJ17 Phosphor Bronze Guitar Strings

My Overall Rating:

Martin MSP4150 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

Martin MSP4150 is a combination of high performance and great string quality. This Studio Performance Series is ideal for musicians with high expectation. It is made of high quality steel core and plain strings plated with an acoustic bronze finish.

Guitar strings are not just guitar strings – they are very personal because everyone has a different “ear”. Not everyone hears the same tones or quality in guitar strings. Martin guitar strings are one of the better quality stings. You don’t even have to own a martin guitar to use their strings. It depends on the sound you’re looking for in your guitar.

Martin Guitars has been around since 1833 and are considered one of the finest in guitar making. They are also one of the oldest guitar makers in the world. They have been setting the standards for styles of guitars for many years and their guitar strings are some of the finest around. They have been hand made since the inception of Martin Guitars and even though technology has come to the life of guitar making they still produce the finest in strings.

The Martin MSP4150 SP strings can be used on any guitar but they are designed for the Martin Guitar so naturally they sound best on one. They have been used by some of the biggest in icons rock stars, country, folk and bluegrass stars. You can see Martin guitar strings in videos and on MTV and even on television shows. But they are a personal choice.

Unlike other medium gauge strings, Martin MSP4150 will not exerting too much tension on your guitar. These light-medium strings exert exactly the right amount of pull on your guitar and give you a beautiful and loud tone. These strings are very finger friendly and give you a good feel on your fingertips.

Whether you’re just starting out learning to play a guitar or are a veteran guitar player, you’ll find owning and using Martin strings gives you the sound you’re looking for on your guitar. If you’re looking for a bright, deep supporting tone plus longevity then Martin strings will bring out the best in your playing. You might even be surprised at how long they last no matter how many gigs, rehearsals and shows you do, they do resist breakage better than other guitar strings. If you’re looking to make your guitar shine with beauty then the golden bronze finish of the Martin SP strings will enhance the beauty of your guitar while providing superior tonal quality.

Martin has been making quality strings for a very long time. The MSP4150 is simply a great set of light-medium strings at a very affordable price. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Martin & Co.
Model	MSP4150
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	Phosphor Bronze
Gauge	Light-Medium, .0125 - .055
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

K. Perry
I have been playing with Martin acoustic steel strings on my Takamine acoustic for years. All Martin products in general have been good. (Playing guitar for 11 years.) [Read full review]

My Overall Rating:

Martin MSP4200 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

If you already own an acoustic guitar or are looking to buy one the one of the important things you need to consider is what strings are you going to use. This can be a challenge for a novice as there is such a wide variety within the strings section of the market. Strings are sold based on strength, material they are made from and brand. Martin MSP4200 Phosphor Bronze strings are ideal for guitarist who loves deep, rich basses and clear tone. These 92/8 phosphor bronze are wounded to precise specifications and designed for daily picking.

Martin MSP4200 acoustic guitar strings use a winding alloy that makes crisp and clear treble tones while offering the deepest and richest of bass tones. They are specifically made to endure all manner of everyday playing and provide good longevity with that in mind.

Being a Martin strings fan for years, I could tell that these Martin SP strings are produced to strict, exacting standards. They never intentionally send out below par strings for retailing. They are wound with expertise and finesse to ensure that they sound great, last long and are easy to use. What make Martin MSP4200 different from other strings is they are good quality strings at low price. These strings deliver beautiful tone and last long too. You don’t have to worry about easy breakage with Martin MSP4200.

Reviews of these Martin MSP4200 strings on the whole have been positive. A few niggles here and there are dwarfed in comparison to the raves about the ease of stringing a guitar with these and the different in sound they can give to a guitar in comparison to other brands. The price seems to be a shining glory as they out price many big guns in the string business, but offer the same quality and in some cases even better quality than their rivals.

Many reviewers have commented that now they have used Martin strings that they would never use another make of strings again. They are best matched with a smaller guitar as there is less string tension and therefore more comfortable to use than if you used them on a full-size guitar. Smaller guitars by nature are less powerful and often harder to project sound with, by using these Martin medium strings this will lend a helping hand to produce more vibrant, attention grabbing sounds.

Whether novice or seasoned pro, the reviews speak for themselves, the Martin MSP4200 strings are strings that offer more than their competitors for a fraction of the price. Simply put Martin MSP4200 on your guitar and tune it, you will be amaze by its fabulous tone. They will definitely blow you away. Read more reviews.
 

Brand	Martin
Model	MSP4200
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	92/8 Phosphor Bronze
Gauge	Medium
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Anton Lemeza
Put these on a Hohner Acoustic to replace some nylon strings it had. SUCH an improvement. Completely different sound. Crisp, clean, just amazing. Cant beat that price either. Snag a set of these! Not much else to say, Martin knows what they’re doing. [Read full review]

A clip from YouTube on Martin MSP4200.

Great saving! Buy through Amazon with more than 50% discounts!

Learning acoustic guitar is a process which is full of fun. Beside strumming and other playing tricks, you can also try different type of strings and discover which string sounds the best for you. One of a very important step before you start your learning journey is to make sure your guitar is properly ‘setup’. This could be done by sending it to music store and get the staffs there to help you out. In general, setup a guitar will cost you around $50. After setup done, your guitar had been adjusted and you will find it easier to play.

Wrap Wires

Guitar strings have a steel core. The bottom 4 strings are “wound” with a wrap wire. For acoustic strings, the wrap wires are normally phosphor bronze or 80/20 bronze (which is actually brass). Phosphor bronze has a brighter and prettier tone, but it tend to be slightly fuzzy. 80/20 bronze is initially brighter but then will mellow in a day or two. Phosphor bronze will mellow also, but not quite as much. Strings wound with pure nickel normally used on electric guitars, but they will make an overly-bright guitar sound quite mellow and good. Similarly, nickel-plated steel can sound very good on an acoustic guitar. That is what Tony Rice uses, and he’s a great guitarist. There are also strings which have an 85/15 formulation. These strings are very mellow sounding and are good for an overly-bright guitar. Lastly, Rohrbacher makes Titanium strings, wound with either phosphor bronze, nickel or coated bronze wire. These strings will last longer than steel, since Titanium is non-corrosive. They are a bit pricey (in the $20.00 per set range) but will last a year or more. They have a slightly softer, sweeter sound than steel strings.

Coated Strings

In general, all string makers have a line of own ‘coated’ strings. These strings have been either dipped or sprayed with a fine coating of polymer that protects the string. However, the coating dampens the sound of the string and the guitar. If your hands perspire a lot, you can use coated strings or the Rohrbacher Titaniums. But if your hands always stay dry, then coated strings are not necessary. They cost a lot more and really do not sound as good as uncoated strings. To me, coated strings are just meant to be made for those people with sweaty palm. Amazon is currently putting some pretty good stuffs on sales. You can get a D’Addario EXP16 almost half the price through this link to Amazon.

Strings Gauges

Guitar strings come in various gauges (thicknesses or diameter). A 56 gauge string is thicker than a 54 gauge string. Generally, the most common gauges for acoustic strings are Extra-light (11-47), Light (12-54) and medium (13-56). Do note different string makers may have slightly different string gauges for their products. If you have a dreadnought guitar, I recommend medium strings. Why? Because medium strings have a greater tension than Lights or Extra-Lights, and will transfer more sound to the top, or soundboard, of the guitar. This is recommended for a new guitar, especially, because the top is tight and needs to be “played in.” However, medium gauge strings are harder to finger than Lights or Extra-Lights. Therefore, I only recommend medium gauge to beginner who can take the pain on their fingers. If this is tough for you, then go for light or extra light gauges. Smaller guitars, such as parlor guitars, O, OO or OOO models will do well with Light gauge strings.

String brands

D’Addario is the most famous brand and their strings are very good. D’Addario also makes other brands such as John Pearse and Dean Markley (a not-very-well guarded industry secret). Elixir is another trusted brand in America. These strings are very durable. Martin & Ernie Ball make a variety of strings and they are also very good choices. The Martin SPs strings are excellent and have a core of high-tensile steel. This is a fine string for blues, or if you are bending the string.

Which Acoustic Guitar String is the best will be subjected to you personal preference. One string sounds excellent to you may not sounds the same to other people. The best is, buy 2 or 3 pack of different strings and test them yourself. Once you get your own best pick, stick to it.

Good luck!

Update: Get a value pack of D’Addario EJ16 Phosphor Bronze Strings at Amazon with up to 50% off through this link.

My Overall Rating:

Ernie Ball Earthwood is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK

We all know Ernie Ball makes top notch electric guitar strings. But what about acoustic strings? To my surprise, I find they sound pretty good too. I tested Ernie Ball Earthwood 2003 on my Gibson and I’m actually quite like them. These Ernie Ball strings sound clean, resonant and lasting.

Other than clean tone, another thing makes Ernie Ball Earthwood Strings attractive is the price. They are cheap, but give you good and crisp tone. Unlike those “high-end” strings which cost you twice or even 3 times of the price (but you couldn’t tell that they sounded or lasted any better), the price of Ernie Ball strings are very reasonable. And I found they sound great for fingerstyle playing.

These strings are sturdy and easy to play. They tune up very quickly upon install and stay in tune. I would recommend you to try them up because Ernie Ball strings are simply good and cheap! Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Ernie Ball
Model	Earthwood 2003
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	80/20 Bronze
Coated / Non-coated	Non-coated
Gauge	Medium Light
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Comment from another happy user:

I. T. A

I use these on one of my acoustics that has a nice warm sound but not a lot of punch. Lights are a bit too light for this guitar, and these particular strings seems to be the perfect match for fast light action, and warm tone on this particular instrument. [Read original review here..]

A clip from YouTube on Ernie Ball Earthwood Strings.

My Overall Rating:

Martin MSP4100 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

C. F. Martin & Co. not only produce guitar, they design and make guitar strings as well. This Martin SP strings (Studio Performance series) is one of their great launch and ideal for live performance or studio. The Martin MSP 4100 are made to deliver outstanding tone.

I bought my pack of Martin MSP4100 not too long ago. Had always been a fan of D’Addario acoustic strings, this is the first time I try on Martin SP. And I must say I’m very please with the result. These strings use a brass electro plating on the non wound strings. What you will get is a softer and fuller tone.

Like D’Addario strings, Martin MSP4100 is also very consistent. From day one I put them on my Martin guitar, they sound absolutely amazing. Is almost 2 months now, and they haven’t lost any of that perfect sound. While I slight, the Martins seems singing in fuller and more complete tone if compare to the D’Addario.

I must agree with many people’s opinion that your perfect string is ultimately come down to your guitar and your ears. It’s kind of personal preference. So I would suggest you to give Martin MSP4100 a try. Feel them on your guitar. You might found they are perfect for you. Read more reviews.
 

Brand	Martin & Co.
Model	MSP4100
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	Phosphor Bronze
Coated / Non-coated	Non-coated
Gauge	Light
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

What other user comment about Martin MSP4100 Strings:

D. Leach

Prior to using these I would break strings constantly. After a very long period of trying every string out there it was an easy choice. They are the only strings I use now, and occasional efforts to find something better have failed. Super reliable, tough, and they sound fantastic on my Rainsong Jumbo. I haven’t done a lot of reviews, but I truly think these are the best acoustic strings you can buy. [Read original review here..]

A clip from YouTube on Martin MSP4100.

My Overall Rating:

Elixir Nanoweb 80/20 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK

I was looking for new strings for my Yamaha acoustic guitar. I had played on Ernie Ball and D’Addario acoustic strings, and I wanted to try something new and different. So I decided to give Elixir Nanoweb coating 80/20 with a try, after browsing through some good reviews online.

Generally, Elixir acoustic strings come in 3 major types: Polyweb 80/20, Nanoweb 80/20 and Nanoweb Phosphor Bronze. I opted for Elixir Nanoweb 80/20 after being told by a friend that Polywebs are a bit dull in tone and that Nanoweb coating is not as thick as the Polyweb. You will get a brighter tone, and the coating doesn’t peel like the Polyweb.

So I put these strings on my Yammy. I found that they sound great and lively! The Nanoweb coating is so thin that it feels no different from playing an uncoated string. My guitar sounds beautiful; the tones are soft and bright. It is simply amazing!

Another great feature of Elixir Nanoweb strings is their consistency. They sound great when you first play them. And they still sound that good months later! Other strings may sound good at first, but after a couple of days, they start to sound dead. I’ve been using my Elixir Nanoweb strings for almost two months now, and they seem to maintain their original tone.

These are the best strings I’ve ever tried. You should try them out, seriously. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Elixir
Model	11052
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	80/20 Bronze
Coated / Non-coated	Nanoweb Coating
Gauge	Light
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Other user’s comment on Elixir Nanoweb 80/20:

O. BLGN

I have a 25 year old Yamaha FG-200D(Domestic model, made in Japan) acoustic guitar. When I bought it, it was around 200 – 250 USD. I always liked the way it sounded. It was always loud, bass rich, but a little dull in high tones. Recently I purchased a set of Elixir Nanoweb Light strings. Afterwards, it sounded so great that I won’t change it for a thousand dollar worth Martin. I realized that the difference was not in high strings, it was the coated low ones which now sounds crystal clear and still rich. I strongly recommend to any acoustic player. [Read original review here..]

A clip from YouTube on Elixir 80/20 Nanoweb.

My Overall Rating:

D’Addario EJ16 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

I got my D’Addario EJ16 through Amazon with their bundled pack of three. I have no reason to complain, because these strings sound great, and I got them for a steal— almost 50% off! I have a habit of changing my guitar strings frequently to keep the tone right, so this value-pack (three sets) suits me nicely.

I like the sound of my new strings. But oddly, the strings turn colors very quickly— after just a few hours of practice. May be I should blame it on my acidic fingers. Anyway, it’s okay, because the more I play my D’Addario EJ16 strings, the mellower the tone becomes. I love mellow sounds, so these strings are great for me. If you find that these strings sound too bright, give them a few days to settle in. The EJ16 will develop a very nice warm sound after couple of days.

One thing I really like about D’Addario EJ16 is the color code on the ball ends. These make it much easier when I do the restringing. I don’t have to worry about mixing my strings accidentally, and have no trouble identifying which string is which. Another advantage is the packaging: unlike other brands that keep their strings inside a normal paper envelope, D’Addario protects their strings with a corrosion-proof sealed bag.

Some of my friends have told me that Elixir strings are much more durable than the D’Addarios. But I have tried both types of strings on my guitar and tested them for quite a while. I would say my vote is still for D’Addario EJ16. These strings are simply the best! Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	D'Addario
Model	EJ16
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	Phosphor Bronze
Coated / Non-coated	Non-coated
Gauge	Light
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Other user’s comment:

Watch Guy

Sorry about using my credentials in the title, but I want to convey how much experience I have with these strings. Sorry if I sound like an ad. I REALLY love these strings.

I have strung literally thousands of guitars over my 40 years of repairing stringed instruments. D’Addario EJ16s are IMHO the best string money can buy- it is the standard of the industry for good reason… they’re simply the best string available! D’Addario’s corrosion-proof sealed bags ensure you get them as fresh as when they left the factory. Lower grade junky stings are shipped in simple paper envelopes and allow the strings to oxidize just sitting on the shelf or in your case. On the other hand, expensive hand made string, like DRs, are wrapped way too tightly, thus, have too much mass, so your intonation and rod will probably need to be readjusted. [Read full review..]

A clip from YouTube on D’Addario EJ16.

This video shows you how D’addario guitar strings are made.

My Overall Rating:

Martin FX is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

If you are need of quality guitar strings for your acoustic guitar, you may want to consider the Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings. Depending on your particular needs in terms of tone, your experience level and budget, these strings may or may not be a good option. You will find more information about Martin Guitar strings, particular the Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic guitar strings here, in this brief review.

Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings are made with thin core wire. This helps to improve flexibility and harmonic sustain. It also gives guitarists more playing control. What is especially nice is that the advanced core wire manages to do all of the aforementioned without sacrificing playability, durability or tone.
These are light gauge strings with the tension measuring 164.8. String gauge measures the diameter or thickness of the strings. They are measured in thousandths of an inch.

When deciding on which Martin acoustic strings a person should buy, a few considerations need to be made, amongst them, price, string type, string gauge, required tone and the age of the guitar. The right strings will affect the quality of the sound.

Price will be an important consideration for some people, though obviously not for everyone. If it is, it is important to avoid paying more money than one has to on strings. Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings are very affordable and can typically be purchased for less than $5.00.

As mentioned above, the gauge of the string, measures its diameter. There are four primary gauge options for acoustic guitars. They are Extra Light, Custom Light, Light and Medium gauge. The Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings have a light gauge, which measure between 12 and 54. These are often used by professional musicians.
The tone a guitar player is seeking will also affect their strings choice. Bronze strings are great for people who want a bright and clear tone. These strings, however, have one downside. They tone tends to fade. Phosphor Bronze Strings, which the Martin FX740s are, are ideal for warm tones with long holds.

Individuals in need of affordable, high quality guitar strings may want to consider the Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings. This is especially true of individuals that desire to play warm tones with long holds and who want light gauge strings. Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings are a great option for professional players who play their guitars regularly. Martin guitar strings come highly recommended and are generally rated quite high by guitarists.

I used to be a fan of Martin SP. Once I tried the FX series on my Lowden, I fell in love with them immediately! They are the best for finger picking and totally suit my style. These strings produce great tone and note separation. They are easy on my fingers especially for bends and slides. I love the feel and sound. And they seem to last just as well as the others. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Martin
Model	FX740
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	92/8 Phosphor Bronze
Gauge	Light:.012 - .054
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

My Overall Rating:

D’Addario EXP16 Strings is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK

What makes the D’Addario EXP strings really good is the fact that these acoustic guitar strings have a kind of special coating that is applied on the hex core that is of high-carbon prior to the process of the wrap wire wound. This feature is the one responsible behind making the EXP strings not just the sound similar to regular bronze but sustain up to several times much longer durability. This is also the very great feature which made D’Addario EXP16 strings a famous choice of many professional guitarists and will definitely make a big difference in your guitar playing.

D’Addario EXP16 strings is something that can deliver the perfect balance of tone, as well as comfortable playability. These guitar strings sound pure and crisp. Your fingers will experience an amazing feeling. The strings have longer life too, and they can sustain much better compared to other coated guitar strings.

Brass ends of the D’Addario EXP16 strings are painted different colors to differentiate each of them. My friend TJ use these on his Ovation, which strings tail-forward through the bridge, so the colored ends are visible and it looks so cool!

As the biggest manufacturer of the world of guitar strings, D’Addario is highly known to be “The Players Choice” that has reputation of great consistency and quality. For those who are just starting to learn acoustic guitar and do not have any ideas yet as to what should be the perfect guitar strings that you should use? Just go ahead with D’Addario EXP16 because these strings can deliver the long lasting and natural sounding, and it is the best coated strings that you can ever find in the market. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	D'Addario
Model	EXP16
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	EXP Coated phosphor bronze
Gauge	Light
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

My Overall Rating:

Elixir Phosphor Bronze Strings are currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

Phosphor Bronze Strings have unique sound and character. But these strings are prone to dull out quickly due to natural corrosion. When guitarists playing their guitars, the oils and other contaminants on their fingers will corrode guitar strings. This will shorten strings’ life. To combat these realities, Elixir Phosphor Bronze Strings had been introduced with Nanoweb technology – microscopic coating. They make your guitar sounds incredible in whatever extreme conditions.

I found Elixir phosphor bronze are above and beyond any strings I have played in the past. They can still sound the same even after 6 weeks of use. This had made them a very good choice for acoustic player like me who change strings often to keep that bright, clear and resonant tone. They may be a little pricey, but that’s okay because they last longer than other brands.

I’m a tone freak and won’t settle for anything less than that rich phosphor bronze sound. I’d tried earlier versions of Elixirs, though I liked the longevity, the sound wasn’t satisfactory in my opinion. But Elixir Phoshpor Bronze string is totally a great find for me! These strings give me more confidence in my playing. Because they simply sound better, which of course makes my playing sound better too. The string noise is minimal and my fingers will just slide smoothly up and down the neck. They are making my $400 Ibanez AE F18 play like a $1200 Martin!

You have nothing to lose by trying these babies out. I assure you, Elixir phosphor bronze strings will make you a better guitar player. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Elixir
Model	16052
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	Phosphor Bronze with Nanoweb coating
Gauge	Light:.012, .016, .024, .032, .042, .053
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Ernie Ball Acoustic Super Slinky 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 strings stay as fresh as the day they were made. You should buy one and see for yourself.

Let me show you one of the satisfied user’s review:

“I originally started buying Ernie Ball strings because I found the package looked killer! But once I tried these strings, they are awesome! They sound great, last long and the price is definitely right! “

You can now buy this string at Amazon and save 55%!

If you ask me to pick the most durable acoustic guitar string, Elixir will definitely be my answer to you. These strings give bright and lively tone. They used ultra thin nanoweb coating which make them different from other traditional 80/20 bronze strings. They are designed to handle any toughest strumming.

Nanoweb coating actually cuts down unnecessary finger friction. It will keep strings last 3 – 5 time longer than regular strings. In other words, these are strings which you could count on their durability. You will see the quality yourself once you have them on your guitar. The difference will be dramatic – it will make your guitar sound completely different and totally awesome.

You gotta buy these strings!

You can now buy EXP16 through Amazon and save more than 50%!

A micro-fine layer of EXP Coating is bonded to the phosphor bronze wrap wire which is then wound onto the hex-shaped core wire. This creates a built-in barrier against the corrosion and wear that can quickly sap the life out of the strings and tone.

EXP16 strings have a natural round wound feel and extra-bright tone that lasts three to four times longer than traditional guitar strings. Here are some of the user’s comments:

“These EXP16s sound better, in my opinion, than the Martins, Elixirs, and othersI have tried. The EXP11s aren’t quite as good (they are an 80/20 blend instead of the Phosphor Bronze used here. I have them on my Gibson J-100 Xtra, and I love them.

”These are pretty much the best sounding strings. They came on my acoustic, which is a Jasmine Takamine, and I couldn’t figure out for the life of me what they were until I discovered on the website that it was D Addarios… Great strings!”

There’s something special about Martin strings. They give excellent clarity, tone and response. They are ideal for live studio performance with deeper, louder tone plus great sustainability. One of their best selling model among guitarists is Martin Phosphor Bronze MSP4100 Light SP, which is a light gauge made better by SP coating. With 92/08 Phosphor Bronze, it will give you a very warm tone.

If you are looking for rich bronze sound but on a tight budget, Martin Acoustic Guitar Strings could be a great option for you. These strings are best to bring out the character of your guitar!

If you have budget concern and looking for a lower cost set of strings, Ernie Ball acoustic strings might be a great idea. Known as one of the top choice for players since the early 1960s, these strings are easier to play, they sound better, and they are durable.

One of their best selling model, Ernie Ball 2003 Earthwood provide a crisp, ringing sound with pleasing overtones. This string has a little on the wild side and make your strumming feel like a free spirit. There’s another Ernie Ball model, Super Slinky 2148 worth your further study. These strings are made with concert quality and simply awesome!

Other than Ernie Ball, another great brand with low price is Martin Acoustic Guitar Strings.

Elixir is well known as the pioneer of long-life strings. This string is a symbol of durability and it sounds the test of time.

Back in year 2001, Elixir developed Nanoweb coating, which give us more advanced & anti rust strings. It gives guitarists even more longevity out of a set of strings than every before. These strings have a very nice, crisp and rich sound. The coating feels great on the fingers and probably makes slides a little easier.

Elixir strings may be a little pricey, but they probably will last much longer than those one dollar cheap strings. A small investment goes a long way. Treat yourself with something special like this and you will enjoy the value in return. If you would like to understand further about Elixir strings, here is one of our review on their best selling model: Elixir Nanoweb Light 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Strings.

Other than D’Addario & Elixir guitar strings, there are also some other strings recommendations at very reasonable price. For example like Ernie Ball & Martin.

D’Addario Acoustic Guitar Strings are high in quality with very affordable price. Passed on for generations, D’Addario is the largest manufacturer of strings for musical instruments. This string maker is well-known with excellent packaging - corrosion-proof sealed bags to ensure their customer get the product as fresh as when they left the factory.

The D’Addario family tradition began in the tiny town of Salle, Italy in 1680 where they made assorted instrument strings for over two hundred years before relocating to New York in 1905. As the modern string making industry began to develop, the D’Addario family emerged as innovators by designing the winding machine most string makers still use today. And while their techniques have modernized, the pride that goes into each set of strings dates back to the D’Addario family’s earliest roots. These strings are like an old favorite for a new generation.

D’Addario strings not only provide great tone but they are durable and very resistant to breakage. Phosphor Bronze was introduced by D’Addario in 1974 and has become synonymous with warm acoustic tone. This revolutionary new breakthrough made D’Addario the leader of guitar strings.

To study further on D’Addario string, you may refer to our recommended model: D’Addario EJ16-3D Phosphor Bronze Light Acoustic Guitar Strings & D’Addario EXP16 Phosphor Bronze Light.

If D’Addario strings is not your cup of tea, you may consider another great brand: Elixir Acoustic Guitar Strings, which is well known as the pioneer of long-life strings.

1. Composition
2. Gauge
3. Brand

Composition

Guitar strings made from material like nickel, stainless, bronze, phosphor bronze, etc. Acoustic guitar use steel strings and classical use nylon. Electric guitars usually use steel strings too. In this article, we will review steel strings instead of nylon, since they are the most common used.

Guitar strings types could also be classified as wound & unwound strings.

a. Wound Strings: A thinner wire wrap with a steel core (usually bronze, nickel or steel). Wound strings are thick and strong. It normally used for the lower registers.

b. Unwound Strings: Unwound strings (also known as standard strings) are generally used for the upper registers. It’s thinner with a higher pitch.

Different type of string and wrapping metals will affect the sound of the string. Bronze is usually considered to have a ‘bright’ sound, which steel is more mellow & softer, especially when wrapped in nickel.

How the string is wrapped could also impact the sound. Although ‘Rround wound’ strings are loud and vibrant, it can be hard on the neck of your guitar and produce noise when sliding your fingers over them. ‘Flat wound’ strings are not as crisp sounding and are easier on frets and fingers.

Gauge

Next, we look at the gauge of the string, ie the thickness or diameter. There are 4 main gauges for Acoustic Guitar strings:

• Extra light 10 – 46. Easiest to play and least tension. Good for beginners but prone to producing a thin sound.
• Custom Light Gauge 11 – 52. Ease of playing maintained and produces slightly richer fuller sound.
• Light Gauge 12 – 54. Popular with professional musicians. Higher tuning stability. Not recommended for budget guitar due to higher tension.
• Medium Gauge 13 – 56. One of the highest gauges. Very big, rich tone but difficult to play on some guitars due to high tension.

Thicker strings sound louder, but they are also under more tension to maintain the required pitch. This can make them hard to play, as the pressure required to push the string down behind the fret is considerable.

To avoid buzzing against the frets, thicker strings usually have to be mounted a bit higher off the soundboard than thin strings. This may slow down the “action” of the instrument, making it more difficult to play quickly.

Brand

So which brand to choose? That is up to your own preference & budget. Each brand has its own solid characteristics, but what works for one person might not sound right to another. The best thing you can do is buy 2 or 3 packs of strings from different makers. Test it and see which one sounds the best to you.

One thing for sure is, choosing appropriate strings will aid technique, enhance quality and improve confidence of the guitar player.

So by now you had basic understanding on guitar strings types, let’s move on to next article: When Should We Replace Guitar Strings?