Official Luthiers Forum!

First, I'd like to apologize. After talking to several people, I started my classical build, and a year later, only have the mahogany neck done. Not enough time in the day with work, kids, etc. So no pictures yet.

Second, I'd asked around about other types of nylon guitars (Taylor in particular) but am now talking strictly strings. I've used most the of basic manufacturers, and am now searching for something that helps brighten up the tone, and can be tuned easier than the standard nylon. By the time you get them stretched enough to hold a tune, they're in need of replacement again. I know thats the nature of the beast with nylon, but was wondering if I could get suggestions.

I want a full, bright tone. Easy tuning. Savarez has several dozen choices - whats the difference between reds, yellows, greens, etc?? D'Addarios are what I'm currently using, and have settled on high tension that gives the best tone. I would prefer ball end, but will definately consider any tie ons. Also, what about the composites?? Are they worth the extra money??

On a side note: I feel the break angle of tie ons can be compromised by the loop and subsequent tying of the string onto the bridge if you aren't careful. Does anyone else think that ball end strings give a better/cleaner break angle and maybe lead to more responsiveness/better tone/and a cleaner look on the bridge??

As always, thanks for the suggestions!!

You might give a set of Oasis composite strings a try.

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Jim Watts
http://jameswattsguitars.com

Here's more than you ever wanted to know about classical strings
http://www.delcamp.us/viewforum.php?f=4 ... 6d692433ae
Like all on-line forums, there is a mixture of the good, the bad, and the ugly, but like many on-line forums there is a wealth of information.
Also, I find that the classical guitar seems to be quite a bit more demanding in the tuning department...
good luck
pvg

I use Oasis Carbon strings when I play, and I put them on my guitars. They are really good strings. They give a guitar excellent sparkle in the sound, and carry the overtones very well. Savarez strings are good, but don't hold up as well as the Oasis.

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Waddy

Photobucket Build Album Library

Sound Clips of most of my guitars

The Delcamp classical guitar forum is excellent.

As for strings, first you are assuming that the guitar in question is capable of the tone that you desire.

Given that it is, I would recommend starting with D'darrio EJ45s. These are widely regarded as a standard reference string with a neutral character, and are a normal tension string.The first step I would explore are the EJ46s, which are a higher tension string to see what that brings out of your guitar. I am not recommending these as an end point, but if you are in search of something else you need to have a reference standard established. Then you can search for a string that has certain qualities relative to the EJ45s.

I have been making lightly built Torres style guitars and find that Aquila Nylgut strings bring out the qualities that I am looking for in them.

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Expectation is the source of all misery; comparison the thief of joy.
http://redrivercanoe.ca/

Interesting comments regarding the differences in nylon/composite strings. They do appear to generally have a brighter tone, easier to keep in tune, and last longer. But there are some questions as to the changes in playability (differing tensions, diameters, retuning, feel, look, etc). So much to learn!! I guess I'm going for the D'Addario composites first, and then branch out from there until I find something that really suits my tastes.

Not to drag the anchor, but am I correct in my understanding that some brands have composite basses with nylon trebles while other brands are completely composite based?? I've seen some brands stating composite basses, nylon trebles, with a composite G just in case... while others are talking about retuning the guitar because all strings are composite and as such, have a smaller diameter and will change the intonation. I saw a few sites that even stated the "full" composites are even recommended for steel string guitars due to the small diameters. Really??

Again, so much to learn!!

I like Savarez 540Js

Regarding the stretching/tuning issues, a lot of that depends on how the strings are tied to the tuners. I find that if I use a "locking" type knot and get as few wraps on the roller as possible, it only takes a day or 2 before they are streched-out.

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Matt Jacobs

"Don't tase me bro"

I've found the D'Addario's to be the best bang for the buck. Have not tried any composites yet though. As for string angle, yes I'd agree that the traditional method of tying probably gives less angle then a ball end would because the knot tends to pull up the string on the front of the tie block. BUt the difference is minimal and if you are having issues with the string break then you have other problems with the guitar. Personally I detest the look of ball end strings on a nice classical guitar but I can understand their convenience

I know it has been mentioned but give the Oasis Carbons a try - just wanted to add in my vote.

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It's this new idea from recent decades that everyone gets a participation award. - MUX

I second on the Aquila. I use the Alchemia Nylagut strings are exactly what I want. They're more expensive, and the tension on the 1st and 2nd string is much higher for a normal tension string, the trebles are bright and there is great balance between the 3rd and 4th string - the problem with most strings.

Steve