Comments on: Cheap Acoustic Guitar Strings

Question: Cheap Acoustic Guitar Strings

symbollocks — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:15:35 -0800

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?

By: jeffamaphone

jeffamaphone — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:23:22 -0800

These are the ones I like!

By: PFL

PFL — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:00:39 -0800

I like John Pearse acoustics. Been using them about 7 years and have yet to break one.

By: boba

boba — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:00:57 -0800

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.

By: quarterframer

quarterframer — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:08:55 -0800

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.

By: uncleozzy

uncleozzy — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:14:47 -0800

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.

By: breaks the guidelines?

breaks the guidelines? — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 12:38:04 -0800

"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.

By: Ironmouth

Ironmouth — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:41:58 -0800

I prefer the Martin Marquis, myself.