Cheap Acoustic Guitar Strings

August 7, 2008 10:15 AM

What are the best cheap acoustic guitar strings and where is the best place to buy them?

I've noted this post but I don't play that much so I'm looking specifically for cheap acoustic strings (Less than $10 per set). Other criteria: the lighter the gauge the better (Nothing above 12 for sure).

Also, is Amazon the best place on the net to buy strings? Are there any places with a wider variety or cheaper prices?

posted by symbollocks to media & arts (7 comments total)

These are the ones I like!
posted by jeffamaphone at 10:23 AM on August 7, 2008

I like John Pearse acoustics. Been using them about 7 years and have yet to break one.
posted by PFL at 11:00 AM on August 7, 2008

I don't know about "best", but goingToday.com occasionally has specials on strings. Once in a while, they will sell a bulk pack of ten for dirt cheap.
posted by boba at 11:00 AM on August 7, 2008

I don't know acoustic guitar strings, but I've been buying for other instruments from JustStings.com for about eight years. Superfast delivery, great prices, friendly if you have a problem/question, and an incredible variety of strings.
posted by quarterframer at 11:08 AM on August 7, 2008

I play D'Addario bronze phosphor strings. Usually the "light" gauge (12-53), but they also make 11-52 and (!!) 9-45. Should be $5-7 a set, depending on how many you buy (Musician's Friend will sell you the 10-pack for $49.99 + shipping, Sweetwater wants $59.99, but the shipping is free). If you've got a local music store, shop there instead; might cost you an extra dollar a set, but it's worth it.
posted by uncleozzy at 11:14 AM on August 7, 2008

“Best” is subjective here. The only way to determine what you think is best is to try several different types. I like the D’Addario and Martin brands in 10 or 11 gauge. Most of the common brands should cost less than $10 at your local music store. (Support independent merchants!)

If you want really flexible strings, you can use lighter-gauge electric strings on an acoustic guitar, no problem. If you don’t play often, though, I’d stay away from nickel strings (e.g. Ernie Ball “Super Slinky.”) In my experience, at least, they tend to oxidize much more quickly than bronze phosphor.
posted by breaks the guidelines? at 12:38 PM on August 7, 2008

I prefer the Martin Marquis, myself.
posted by Ironmouth at 2:41 PM on August 7, 2008