Does Acoustic String Gauge Make a Difference?

[@matthewgordon2655]

I only just discovered that Rick has a second channel. Missed opportunity to name it Rick Bea-two

[@MashaT22]

Omg someone has to make him aware of this suggestion - he can still change the name!

[@clementsolomon727]

Nice

[@dbearss]

this is why the comment section exists

[@DMSProduktions]

LOL!

[@TexanUSMC8089]

It's easier to remember and search for Rick Beato 2. LOL

[@KeithFinnie]

I switched to lighter gauge strings to ease the load on my arthritic hands. A significant improvement in my ability to play, and to the length of time I can play. I've recently put d'addario 10-47's on my Taylor 114ce. Never sounded better to my ears. I was stunned that the lower frequencies cleaned up, plus much more even across the spectrum. Plus, F/B/G/C barre chords much easier on my fingers.

[@capohd28]

I did the same. I own several Martins and switched from .013 to .012s due to arthritis and playing home a lot more due to the pandemic. It does make me play better with less hand pain. What I didn’t expect is how good the instruments still sound. It actually opened the mid tones and highs a bit, and with a bit of hearing loss, I can hear the guitars better. I find the .012s a bit better balanced and less stiff than 0.013s which I had been using the previous 40+ years. Another bonus is that a bit less tension, it is a bit easier on the instruments as well, likely prolonging the time between neck resets.

[@smilernok]

try eating ginger root , if you have wrist pain

[@garrolou]

Same Here although my guitars sound a bit better with bigger strings I definately go for 10s for the ease to lay with my old hands...

[@capohd28]

@@garrolou Wow, 10’s are really light for an acoustic. Not sure I’d like the sound of that, but you got to do what you got to do to keep playing!

[@GRJ-uz7kf]

Anybody who doesn't have big, strong hands rightly values the playability of lighter gauges.

[@AugustThor438]

I am a bassist and am a big believer in light gauge strings, I feel I can control the dynamics a lot more by how hard I play. On a heavy gauge strings, especially flatwounds, you have to play very hard all the time to get a decent sound out of them. For some guys light gauge strings just feel like rubber bands because they are so used to playing hard on a heavy gauge strings. But you have to adjust to them. Play dynamically and have the amp do the work.

[@bryanrulz3904]

August, agree 10000% man. I was just going to say the same thing. The big myth, in my opinion, with bass strings is that lighter gauges can't sound big and fat. That has not been my experience at all. You don't have to play with anchor cables on your bass to get a big sound.

[@hififlipper]

It's always easier to play on lighter strings, but does it really sound better?

[@jmwicked]

@@hififlipper from what can be heard in this video, and in my opinion, it sounds different, not better or worse. But the playing (and ease of) makes a lot more difference.

[@activese]

I agree 100% with your assessment.

[@MrWhit30]

STFU Donny, you're out of our element.

[@daddygad]

I think it's always good to try different gauges on different acoustic guitars because they respond differently. It really depends a lot on the player too. There's no "one size fits all" string gauge for acoustic.

[@douglasholdenjr.45]

Spot on, brother!!!!

[@nakiarobby3996]

Agree

[@ramspencer5492]

Bingo. And for sure different guitars respond differently under load

[@nocaster51]

I'm a preacher of the D'addario NickleBronzes (NB). Not many people realize, nickled strings were a standard for 60's acoustic guitar so if you're looking for vintage tone, bronzes are not the way to go! I play a 90's Yamaha and OMG what a difference it makes. ALSO nickel is softer and easier to play and get's oxidized way slower than bronze, so they just LAST and, to my ear, sound their best after at least 2 weeks worth of playing. Last but not least, they are a studio producer's dream. Record and mix seamlessly.

[@skylark5789]

agree 100%

[@thomashall9641]

Agree! NB last longer, play easier, and sound the best on my Yamaha SF5 Red Label and Martin OM-21. I use the 12-53 light.

[@funkster007]

Taking note 👍

[@montehall5593]

10-47 both styles of playing...all day

[@maxheadroom5532]

.010: 2:25 strumming, 2:54 picking .011: 3:35 strumming, 4:02 picking .012: 4:43 strumming, 5:13 picking .013: 5:58 strumming, 6:28 picking

[@GTRxMan]

Thanks for validating my preferences! After playing for years on "light" gauge, I made the switch to "extra light" and haven't looked back. To me, while the overall tone of the heavier strings is a bit fuller, the ease of fingering and bending the lighter strings more than offsets the slight loss of tone. Using the lighter guage strings also minimizes the difference in feel when switching back and forth from electric to acoustic.

[@rebelquadronfpv1065]

Social media is designed to validate your opinions. Generally gets better as you teach it what you like.

[@frederickglasser5617]

I'm still at the beginner stage. Started 6 months ago. I started out with 12 gauge strings. I really couldn't achieve bar chords. Nearly everything was plunk and chunk. My teacher said I should change to a lighter gauge. I went to 11 gauge. Immediately noticed a wonderful difference. Not only was I finally able to play bar chords, but also my sound on all my other chords was so much better.

[@Felix-dx2ci]

So you're learning on steel strings, that's great, when I kicked off fifty five years ago I played a Spanish and the nylon strings were a bit easier to play besides I couldn't afford a dreadnought. For the rest of my life I played electric until recently where I've packed the electrics away and play acoustic i.e. a Hummingbird and a Sigma Jumbo both with 0012s which suit me the best.

[@JamesThomas-zl9er]

Try the EJ26 11-52 Custom Light - I usually play EJ16s 12-53 but just put some 26s on and love them, just a little easier all round…

[@lilgreenmomo]

This is the comment I came for. I really need to change my strings.

[@kaushalsuvarna5156]

​@@lilgreenmomo please do, makes a world of difference I also like (extra)lights for finger style, the treble comes through better, but overall for strumming I prefer medium

[@ndeavor9135]

That's an interesting experience, I'm a beginner as well and I'm switching to a lighter gauge for the same reason. Thanks for sharing!

[@gcapeletti]

It's been more than 15 years since I play only on nylon strings, but maybe my input can be of any help: I think string gauge affects the sound since it affects playability, mainly. I used to play on hard/super hard tension strings and my left hand used to hurt a lot. When I switched to normal tension, I never looked back. My sound really improved, just by feeling more comfortable.

[@despurvoa3]

I used to worry I was missing a whole lot of range by playing my 10’s, but not so much now. Thanks for doing this!

[@gssong7111]

Whatever gauge pulls the bridge off my Martin is perfect!

[@dougsmith1622]

That is a real concern if it is an old guitar, so be careful.

[@dimiaraujo90]

To be honest, the 0.11's, maybe 0.12's at the most, just hitted the sweet spot to my ears. But I would be a lot more curious to hear different string materials, like Silk Steels, Silk Bronze, Flat Tops, Flatwounds, 85/15 Bronze, Phospor Bronze, and so on...

[@TroyBoyleAtheistAdvocate]

To my ears, the .10s sounded the best on fingerstyle, but I noticed a pronounced improvement in projection and articulation with the .12 set in Rick's strumming. He may prefer .13s out of habit, but the .12s had clearer resonance to me.

[@joemess98036yahoo]

Agreed, the 13s almost have a muted quality.

[@DaVinci0963]

I agree Troy. My first feeling upon the demo played was the same as yours.

[@loontil]

the notes being played is what sticks out to me

[@someguy5826]

flatpicking the light gauge sounded awful. so much chitter-chatter mish-mash noise. 12s did sound good but i prefer the 13s as its cleaner - free of that chitter-chatter mish-mash noise! ...fingerstyle didnt seem to make as much difference - i expect as a player the lighter gauge much more enjoyable. ...with both flatpick and fingerstyle heavier gauge made them play slower - guitar seems to sound fatter.thicker.more bloom - so forces u to want to play slower. (and the thicker gauge may slow you down anyway)

[@thomastucker5686]

I preferred the thinner sound on the strumming with the 10s. I put 9s on my Takamine and it still sounds huge, but plays way easier.

[@benbryson6598]

As someone who used to play out acoustic, my experience is that the thicker strings absolutely sound a little fuller and the lighter strings sound thinnner, but when you're playing for 3-4 hours that string thickness makes a difference on your fingertips so I used Elixer 11s (nanoweb I think) to play out. Even though they were a little thinner sounding, I just upped the bass a little on the EQ and close enough.

[@surfrunnerd8457]

Medium gauge is a nice balance between the 2. I like Martin Bronze Wound.

[@plantain.1739]

Downtune it. Its amazing. Oh also drop d sounds really nice.

[@susanroycroft89]

Yes indeed I now Downtune a semitone, the guitar neck loves it my voice loves it and a slightly more flexibility in the strings 😊😊😊

[@piperlynn9060]

I did the same. Elixir 11's

[@jhesbol]

When Covid hit, my daily and weekly playing dropped considerably, so when I started doing acoustic gigs again I switched from .12s to .11s on my Martin OM-28. The change was so much easier on my hands and I didn't notice that much of a change in the performance of the guitar. Great Video!

[@strange_logic]

Good to know, I'm thinking of doing the same with my new 000-28.

[@loontil]

ohhh covid...............there's things coming that're gonna make you piss your slacks...

[@nuthinbutlove]

I use light gauge on acoustics as well and it's all about hand comfort. I find the difference in tone minimal and and changes that need to be made can be done using eq.

[@tjh780]

@@loontil 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@sawdustcrypto3987]

Me too. Tendonitis in my forearm. I can pay much longer now. I like 13s a lot, but I really didn't notice a difference between 12s and 11s sound wise and there is no buzzing so I stuck with the 11 s

[@richardpayne5101]

Be interesting to put the recordings through frequency analysis to see whether the harmonics change.

[@CB_ChaosLove]

seems like they missed out on an opportunity there. or they would be so similar the difference could be imperceptible.

[@mjrausch]

Considering you could never have the microphone in the exact same spot during each recording, a frequency analysis may not show the difference in tone from string gauge in isolation. There would be TWO variables in that experiment: mic position and string gauge. My ear tells me mic position would provide a bigger change in sound/harmonic content than gauge of string.

[@jerrypalmer3534]

Early in my playing experience , I had seen a guitar player called Michael Hedges. I had been listening to his first 2 records, and thought they were really ground breaking as far as the acoustic guitar and composition goes, after the concert he invited everyone backstage to talk if they wanted to, no one showed but me, I was kind of blown away by that..we talked and the first question out of my mouth was, "What kind of strings do you use? He smiled and said " what ever is there". I laughed, in other words, Its like the old Frank Zappa album..."Shut up and play your guitar". I ended up opening for him in Colorado in 1997..What a talent! I was one of the best days of my life..I was terrified !!! But what a great experience !! There has really been no one like him since, in my humble opinion !!

[@j.r.9380]

Michael Hedges is a name I haven't heard in a while. I heard him play on record (it was a studio session as far as I remember) one day and was blown away by his rendition of "All along the Watchtower". I bought his "Live on the Double Planet" and have listened to this record quite often, though never got anything else by him. I just learned by the way your comment was worded and looking it up that he passed away two decades ago.

[@chapmanmartin4341]

Thanks Jerry, I had never heard of Michael and am loving what I am hearing. It's inspiring to hear so much soul come through a guitar in a way I've never heard. Soul can make any guitar sound good. Sure, love and care can help a guitar sing, but at the end of the day the guitar just wants to sing.

[@Rod_Daigle]

Many players like Andy McKee for one emulate Micheal Hedges "heavy mental" style, it was a huge loss to the guitar world when Michael was killed in 1997 in a car accident. Like Lenny Breau, Hedges, outside of a small devoted fan base, never got the recognition that genius such as theirs deserves.

[@ddiegelman]

I was fortunate enough to see Michael in his early career many times at the New Varsity theatre in Palo Alto. He was a game-changer for acoustical guitar. His playing was effortless and demeanor always fun. Such a tragic loss.

[@matthewoconnell114]

I used to listen to Michael Hedges in college and thought that he was absolutely amazing.

[@marcknight9334]

Went from 12s to 10s after watching that video. So much easier to play and the sound is not that different. Thank you so much for testing everything out for us!

[@thecheeseman31415]

How's the volume difference? Considering 10's on my Yamaha but I play unamplified somewhat regularly so I need a volume acoustically.

[@jtrumbach]

i think it totally depends on the guitar. different acoustics have different shapes, sizes, materials, bracing and voicing. even between the same models, the grain of the wood may effect tone. based on that, i say every guitar is different and only thing to do it try this at home with your own guitar and see what sounds best.

[@msPaulaA1]

I agree. On my Gibson J30, Adirondack spruce top, mahogany back and sides I have 11s and it’s a complete sound for un-mic-ed playing my other is a Martin DCG16 auria spruce top with rosewood back and sides and that I play 10s. Because it sounds best for that particular guitar and it’s internal mic-Ed with a pickup that I like though a sound system. Do strings make a difference? Hell yeah. The trick is finding which set lights your instrument on fire.

[@PragmaticDany]

... thats why they used the same guitar for the tests, to remove that variable.

[@jtrumbach]

@@PragmaticDany understand. But unlike the electric guitar string challenge, the guitar itself plays a much bigger factor in this experiment. All I’m saying is that 12’s is best for THIS guitar. But on my Martin om-28, the best sounding strings (balanced eq) may be 11’s.

[@PragmaticDany]

@@jtrumbach Okay I see what you're saying, now. Understandable, have a good day, sir.

[@lisarazzilier-lavoie5750]

In total agreement. I learned at start of pandemic on my Yamaha FS800. No knowledge at the time what gauge I had but had it setup with 11s 4/5 months later b/c wanted bend easier. I couldn’t *stand* the sound and asked luthier to setup back to PB 12-53 and my Lola was back 😎 Now I’m set on the XS Lights.

[@ianjones1751]

Found this video so informative Rick thank you for making it. I had 13's on and as I'm a beginner I wanted to know if a lighter gauge would help after watching this I decided to put 10's on. I found it so much more comfortable to play and barre chords became easier to play helping me become a better player . Love your videos, thanks again!

[@nathanmarineau3993]

I've played for year, but finally got a new guitar with 13s and I just end up playing my old guitar because its easier. Time for a change.

[@sunMMVIII]

Same. I've been considering lighter strings. This helped.

[@666legnadibrom]

you know it deosnt take very long to build up the hand strength to play 13's comfortably

[@rroades]

As someone who hasn't played in 30 years and just getting back into it, I always kept lightest gauge on my 12-string, mainly for playability. Now, because old hands can't remember much less have the strength, I was really glad to see this. Rhett's playing was beautiful. I have so much to learn, re-learn, re-enjoy.

[@omairsh8]

Yeah agreed the thinnest strings give the most control and nuance, which I like

[@rickmorse9884]

Great video, guys! As someone who prefers 80/20s to PH/BRs, I like the sound of 12-53s best to get plenty of depth while still retaining brightness. I find this is especially important when playing higher capo positions, such as many of Jethro Tull's tunes with the capo at the 5th fret.

[@Ryan_Poff]

The .12 seems the most even and balanced for sure. The smaller gages are as if you used a HP filter. .13 feel like it's LP with a bump in the low end.

[@ramspencer5492]

Some guitars want that bump... Some, it's bloating on

[@masterbrian57]

Fingerstyle and strumming both sounded best on the lowest gauge. Thank you for the detailed demo.

[@smhdpt12]

It's subjective. Strumming? Heavier gauge sounds better (except for the 13, those just sound muddy). Fingerpicking? Lighter strings are always better.

[@lt_johnmcclane]

@@smhdpt12yeah it’s subjective and the guy just gave his opinion on what he thought sounded better. Not sure why you’re acting like he’s wrong

[@666legnadibrom]

@@smhdpt12 you just dont like heavies becauase you butter soft hands cant handle the tension

[@zachrichard7558]

11's seem like the best compromise tonally. I think the high end starts to get lost in the 12s and 13s especially. The 10s to sound just a little more jangly, which could be why you and Dave perceived a difference in the midrange. I recently switched to a 10 set on my acoustics because I'm teaching a friend who hasn't built his finger calluses yet and I was surprised at how good they sounded! Lighter gauges are coming back!

[@azharaz4140]

I tried 12, didn't like it, as felt hand stress after long hours...10 is ok for me...

[@RNHJZ]

@@azharaz4140 It really depends.. Havier strings give more "depth" to the sound imo, however they require more finger strength. If you feel comfortable with 10th, you've got what you want. 12th and 13th are harder to pull off just because of the pressure you need to put on a string. As for me I'm used to D'Addario 12, which makes it a breath to get tricks on lighter strings. However, I need to adopt with a struming pattern and play it closer to the neck to get the sound I want.

[@kotymccallister5150]

They got noticeably mellower as the strings got heavier. However, when you move to the 11s on the finger picking the extra tension allowed him to pluck harder and it brought out a lot of the guitar there.

[@cheezyridr]

i had the same thought

[@lindamorgan2678]

Very true I noticed that myself on my guitars bought some used ones with med strings on them and did not like playing them at all

[@xthexadvantagex]

Something to consider especially on acoustic is the volume. Recorded I tend to like the lighter strings, my fingers prefer playing them too. I recently restrung with 10s to play bendy leads on acoustic and while the tone is nice the volume and fullness is very gone.

[@nathanielranney3546]

I play a Yamaha parlor steel-string. You've convinced me to stay with the 10's. Easier to play (have some arthritis issues developing), and use both hybrid and finger styles. Great demo for us acoustic guys!

[@randallsandmann2579]

Roto sound offers a 9 gauge acoustic set... that’s what I use on my D 35, and with my tech’s expert setup, it plays like a Les Paul. I’ve never bought into,the heavier gauge strings sound better mantra, as there are so many tone shaping tools now available, that you can easily compensate for any perceived loss of tone. To me, the gains in playability far outweigh any supposed loss of tone.

[@michael52250]

Agreed, but they seem to go out of tune easier to me... I use 9s on my electrics and 10s on acoustics

[@carlosreira2189]

Probably smart on the lighter braced 35 too!

[@penoyer79]

try 12 gauge elixers. thank me later

[@ericf3688]

From my personal experience, the biggest difference when I play heavy vs light strings live, acoustic is the dynamic range. The light gauge is very even, so when I want to kick a solo, or any type of expression, the light gauge will be lost, I have to play that much harder to get a tiny bit of volume increase. Meanwhile, the heavy gauge have more room to get louder if I hit them harder, so I cut through the mix better by controlling my volume through my playing.

[@stevelestermusic]

My experience exactly. Light strings are great if your style doesn't include leaning on them heavily at times.

[@RockandRollOver]

i use the heaviest chrome flatwounds. i totally agree. dynamic range.

[@2musiclover534]

I think this very much depends on the guitar. I have a 3.5 lbs 12th fret Martin dreadnought that has huge dynamic range with lights. Mediums give more sustain due to more mass but may actually cut down on dynamic range. Some lightly built guitars, built for extra lights for example, will get choked in the dynamic range with medium strings. So it is guitar dependent. Most factory guitars are overbuilt to reduce insurance claims and these can benefit from heavier gauges.

[@StevenLeeMusician]

Yes. Light gauges sounded more even to me as well. Which is what I'm looking for just strumming a solo acoustic act. Plus, methinks it will be easier on my arthritic hands.

[@bernieweller320]

Which bears out what they say in their summing up. More mid range = more projection, which is what they said heavier strings produce.

[@Billywagner22]

I went to a friends acoustic duo gig. He had a really killer acoustic tone. When I played his guitar it had a 10 set with a plain 3rd and played easier than my electrics. I learned a lesson that day.

[@NewBlueType]

What does a plain 3rd mean?

[@Billywagner22]

@@NewBlueType unwound string

[@ChrisHayworth100]

@@Billywagner22 how did he keep his third in tune. My experience of that set up is that the G string goes out of tune to easily.

[@2musiclover534]

It depends on the guitar - his must be lightly built or perhaps had a superb pickup and processed signal. Likely both.

[@jasonstallworth]

Man, they all sound great but I'm so with you on the ease of playability and impact on your performance being the most important factor. I recently went from 12s to 11s on my Martin (GPC 13e). I play 2-3 live solo acoustic shows a week and the lighter strings are so much better on my fingers.

[@natalirivero467]

IMHO, 11s are great on full scale lenght guitars like yours. That's my preference, I own a GS Mini now (short scale), they come with 13s, I want to switch to 12s.

[@scupking]

@@natalirivero467 I just switched to 12s on my mini after using 13s for 10 years. The 12s sound great and it plays much easier now! I will never go back to 13s.

[@natalirivero467]

@@scupking That is great, I did go back to 13s after trying the 12s, not so much for the sound but they just felt a little loose to my fingers. Just personal preference though, I am glad you are enjoying the 12s :)

[@hkguitar1984]

I specific choose my model of guitar due to its incredibly loud projection to compensate for my use of lighter gauge strings. I’ve been playing guitar since 1974 and need ease of play more than volume or EQ profile. It doesn’t matter how loud or full the guitar’s tone is if I can’t play the piece with ease.

[@rickmilam413]

Interesting. I've developed hand issues but have stuck with 12's because I always believed that was the lightest acceptable acoustic I actually liked the 12''s the least - the attack transients seemed over emphasized. I'm definitely going to try 10's and 11's. My acoustic is one of the Breedlove DR Deluxes, a Martin copy and the only Breedlove I've ever liked. Nicely balanced. Thanks, guys.

[@TribalGuitars]

I took a lot of grief for years from guitar friends about using 9s on my electrics and 10s on my acoustics and with Rick's two videos I feel vindicated! The same people that gave me shit about it would play my guitars and wonder why they were easier to play and sounded better.

[@jeramym9506]

Exactly. I once put a set of 8s (!) on an old gibson and it sounded phenomenal.

[@TribalGuitars]

@@jeramym9506 I figure if light gauge strings are good enough for BB, Billy Gibbons, Jimi, and the Wrecking Crew, good enough for me!

[@skeeterman7144]

Completely agree. We are vindicated!

[@penoyer79]

everyone has their preferences. I messed around for a few year until one day i slapped on 12 gauge elixers and haven't looked back in like 20 years.

[@TribalGuitars]

@@penoyer79 "If we all liked the same thing everybody would be hitting on your grandma." - Grampa

[@denmar355]

I like the 11’s for the best of all worlds. I play a 000 24.75” scale and 11’s are great. On my Breedlove C25 I like 12’s in my ear, but 11’s under the fingers. So, for me 11’s are the go-to after playing a variety of gauges for 30 years+.

[@cleanhit777]

I like the lightest strings I can get away with, I would always sacrifice a little tone for maximum playability.

[@brendonelton]

Lighter gauge strings will sacrifice volume on an acoustic unfortunately.

[@8MinuteAxe]

I totally agree. I know I can get a little more mid out of heavier strings but for live performances I always use 10s on my acoustics and 12 strings. 8s on my electrics. Without 'maximum playability' as you say, there isn't going to be any good tone. LOL.

[@jefferp]

I agree with you. I’m an old geezer with hand pain so I need all the ease of play I can get.

[@MrBarnejstinson]

@@brendonelton Or fortunatly if you singing while playing and you are not the loudest singer.

[@rookmaster7502]

After a while, one can get used to playing with heavier strings. You just need to give them a chance.

[@roman0robert]

I am a rank amateur. I played drums for 10 years or so with garage bands and decided to learn guitar. A relative gifted me a Washburn D10 they never learned to play which has been sitting in a closet for 15 years. I figured a string change was probably in order so I picked up 2 sets of Ernie Ball Earthwood medium lights (in case I break the first set). This video helped me decide to stick with lighter gauge strings as I learn. Next, armed with a brand new string winder in hand, on to a video on how to restring!

[@MrWhit30]

On my D28 I only run 13s playing straight up bluegrass, purely acoustic & competing with F5s and Mastertones, the little extra punch& vol in the bass is worth it. Otherwise for normal all purpose playing I run 12s. Almost as good as the 13s but easier to play and less stress on the guitar. But I'm pretty much a flatpick only guy with perhaps a bit of hybrid thrown in. For delicate finger style like in this vid the 10s sounded great. IMO Ricks strums sound best with the 13s, nice and fat, but the 12s were pretty close. the 11s and 10s sounded too thin and stringy. Of course all this goes out the window when you add pickups and eq into the equation.

[@288beetle]

I agree... My 28 was made for 13’s,,, but I noticed that when I recently went to 12’s it was a completely different guitar......

[@fishelbresler9418]

I largely agree with MrWhit30 that if you do a lot of acoustic (i.e. not EQ'd) strumming, the lighter gauge strings are just too stringy and slappy sounding. I play all day every day doing therapeutic music in hospitals. I have to be able to get a really fat rhythmic strum, plus I do a lot of fingerpicking. After years of experimentation, I go with Thin Core phosphor bronze 13-56. Is it a bit harder to play? Yes - especially fingerpicking. But there is simply no way for me to get the sound I need with lighter strings. It's live - no PA to compensate. I am astounded at the people who have said here that they heard no difference in the strumming on different gauges. To my ear it's very clear: heavier strings = more mid, less high edge, and much meatier strumming. It all depends on what setting you're working in, and what you like. Everybody's right!

[@noahtrock]

THANK YOU for making this video!! Awesome education! I hear something different. I did hear the change in mid-range, but I heard much more tinny-ness (like Steel guitar) in the lighter gauges. light = more pronounced highs. Heavy gauge had less dynamic range - more equal in highs and lows. Heavier were warmer, and less tinny. I heard more difference in strumming than picking. Excellent point on better consistency of playing with lighter gauge! I guess acoustic string guage is about compromise: easier to play on lights, but more tinny highs; warmer heavies, but harder to play (more pick sound?).

[@escargotomy]

I've always always played 11's on an acoustic and I've been playing 38 years. With anything heavier I start making mistakes and feel like I'm fighting the strings. 10's sound a little too jangly to my ear.

[@leonpetersen7346]

agree on the 10's being more jangly i play 12' /54 Earthwood 80/20 mostly ....except for Ibanez brand...almost impossible to play above the 5th fret in the EBG..they sound GREAT tho..i but Ibanez when the Earthwoods are out of stock and just change the basses. I would play Elixir's but a bit pricey for consistent use...Earthwood's are as good, and the basses brighter, which i like.

[@escargotomy]

@@leonpetersen7346 I've jumped around on brands and types so many times its been like a merry-go-round and i'm sure I've gone all the way around at least twice. Back in the 80's I liked Adamas...thought they sounded really bright and loud, almost electric. For some years after that it was a rotation of Earthwoods & Blue Steels. Got to be a bit of a cork-sniffer in the 2000's and spent about 10 years only playing Thomastik Infeld Plectrums & Markley's coated Alchemys. These days I've been enjoying DR Sunbeams when I want bright and D'Addario Nickel Bronze sound nice and balanced across the frequency range.

[@colinmiller2000]

the 13 guage strings are great for live gigs in a strum heavy role, especially if the acoustic guitar is the "driving force" sonically. They are louder and don't break as easily if you are playing hard especially if it's a hot and humid environment. However, the toll on the hands is noticeable and if you're prone to aches after playing, they can really take their toll if you are playing a lot.

[@ztornow]

Dude so true. I lead worship at my church and the acoustic is a big timekeeping piece for us. I use it to set tempo and change dynamics. Mediums let me dig in without worrying about the strings and I can get loud if need be. It's unrefined... but it serves the purpose. Bonus, they add a little depth to my Taylor to nudge it a bit closer to the Martin side of the spectrum.

[@gatergates8813]

I play mainly on the sidewalk, unamplified, and play with the heaviest strings I can find for this reason. Heavier strings respond better to being hammered away at and can take the abuse

[@leearft8605]

I've found the tonal difference between Phosphor Bronze and 80/20 Bronze strings to to be more pronounced than string gauge. The overall play-ability and articulation of 10s on my acoustic is an absolute must for me compared to any tonal deficiency they might have compared to heavier strings.

[@omairsh8]

The 80/20 Bronze is so much brighter which I prefer. The original strings I had were 80/20s, and now I have the Phosphor Bronze which definitely sound duller and darker

[@joepetroske2945]

As a rock climber, I’ve noticed over the years I can play much thicker strings with ease now. I guess that’s to say it could be worth experiencing with increasing finger strength as a way to help with playing guitar

[@jc.1191]

Yeah. I don't play enough acoustic to not be on the lightest gauge. But I've also never not bought others. I've played other players guitars with thicker Guage and never thought much about it tho either.

[@user-hn2wc3fy7y]

Absolutely love how you give a full rig rundown so we can get a full picture of the sound we’re hearing. It might not mean much to many, but for the people who care, it’s a welcome feature of the videos with tracked audio.

[@EclecticHillbilly]

I started playing in the 70s and I've always liked the lightest strings and lowest action I can get.

[@73challenger5031]

I agree. If your playing an acoustic/electric or with a pickup, you can EQ the sound you need, if necessary.

[@joepalooka2145]

I like Martin's Eric Clapton Acoustic Light set 12-54. They sound real good to my ear. There's so many different strings that I tend to stick with whatever pleases me.

[@djmoulton1558]

I kinda knew what to expect on this test. In person, as the player, I find the heavier gauge strings sound best. They resonate better in the space I'm in. But once you start going through a mic all that is lost, and the ease of play on the lighter gauge strings plus the way the mic evens all the gauges out makes the lighter gauge strings win hands down.

[@zx7-rr486]

Yes, that's what I thought. After many years shredding an electric, I just started playing acoustic. I don't even know what gauge is on my guitar I just bought from the shop. I am determined to learn fingerstyle and proper strumming - and was really wondering about string gauge and action. A lot to figure out. But as you say, whilst one gauge might sound great acoustically in a room you are sitting in, that might be cancelled out by the recording process. I actually thought the 11 gauge sounded best (when recorded), and that is probably relatively easy to play fingerstyle. I'll try those next.

[@qua7771]

@@zx7-rr486 I play electric, but I'm getting an acoustic for practice, so I can play it where ever. I'm thinking of going with 11's. 10's are what I'm used to, but it seems thin for an acoustic. IDK.

[@seayak]

just switched from a set of Elixir 12-54's to a set of D'Addario 11-52's (both in phosphor bronze with a view to lowering the action and easing the pain in my fingers a bit, and was happy to discover how much it also improved the playability and articulation of finger picking on my 43 year-old Martin D-18, without much apparent loss of volume or tonal balance.

[@bootlebeats6331]

Leo Kottke gave me a tip on string gauge. He uses a standard set tuned down half a step and replaces the 12 and 16 to a 13 and 17 for strings 1 and 2. He felt the guitar just sounded better. Great video. Something to be said for making a guitar easier to play.

[@billdelunalewis7171]

Thanks for answering questions i had watching this vid. Like what about mixing and matching string gauges and such

[@stogies3]

Do you mean 1 and 6 ? Because 1 and 2 doesn’t make sense. 13 and 17?

[@bootlebeats6331]

We were just talking about six string guitars, not twelve strings. Where the open high E string was a .012, he switched to a .013 . Where the open B string was a .016, he switched to a .017. Because the string action is generally lower plus the string break angle over the bridge is less on the upper strings, the additional string tension offsets the affects of a lower bridge The end result brings out the melodies for fingerstyle players in a positive way. Hope this clarifies this . If it doesn't, I'm happy to keep trying ways to explain this. :)@@stogies3

[@stogies3]

@@bootlebeats6331 ok 13 17 and the rest? Thank you

[@bootlebeats6331]

@@stogies3 Third string- .024 |Fourth string-.032 |Fifth string-.042 |Sixth string-. 053 or .054 depending on string brand. Remember that all six strings are to be tuned down half a step from standard tuning. You could go lower if you want less tension or like lower pitches.

[@matthewoconnell114]

I’m so glad you did this episode b/c I play more acoustic than electric, although your electric show helped out a lot. I actually thought that the 13s sounded muddy, especially on the fingerpicked song. It was hard to differentiate between the others, though, which would suggest that going with the lighter gauge is a better option b/c they are easier to play. I thought you might show the variation on the computer - because frankly, why even show it if you’re not going to present the results. In any case, helpful video as always. Thanks.

[@666legnadibrom]

the finger picking one was probably becasue the guy was just too physically weak to play them correctly

[@shakarocks]

Attack changes with string gauge. For myself I prefer a hybred set (J19 Bluegrass set) which gives the high strings of a light set and the lower strings of the medium set. This allows me some versatility as far as tunings, especially those tunings which have you detuning the low strings significantly.

[@ZRJZZZZZ]

In an experiment you have to have a “control“ by which to compare the “variable.“ The point to the experiment was “do different gauges of strings sound different?“ In this experiment the control was the riff played by each musician. The “variable” was the change in string gauge. Rick‘s experiment worked because he had consistent technique regardless of the string change. Rhett, who is primarily an electric guitarist, lacked the strength to play his riff across the string changes, so the change was the result of his lack of ability instead of the string change. I think the result would change for Rhett if he had some practice time with a heavier gauge strings so that they would be more familiar under his fingers. Rick was readily familiar with the heavier gauge strings because that’s how he strings his guitar; he was used to it.

[@supersonicej]

Couldn't agree more

[@millennialanimal]

Never thought about it like this, I use heavy strings and when I play a guitar with 9s or 10s I find the strings so unstable, so I can see how it would work in the opposite direction with someone with no strength in their hands.

[@bassesatta9235]

@@millennialanimal not to mention Rhett was finger picking an intricate piece (lots of hammer ons and pull offs) which like you said would be noticeable for someone who never plays heavy

[@meanmr.mustard3511]

Fair point

[@waynetozer3881]

I’m a little surprised that there wasn’t a little bluesy string bending in the test samples as I think this is really where the lighter gauge strings maximise their playability advantage. As an intermediate player learning acoustic blues, the lighter gauges have been invaluable. Maybe when I get a lot better and have more finger strength I may try a heavier gauge but playability and having fun with an easier learning curve are my current priorities. Each to their own - just enjoy what you are doing and stay safe everyone. 🙏❤️

[@boomshankah1123]

Yep, just open position strumming and arpeggios, not a comprehensive comparison.

[@GTRxMan]

You're exactly right. String bending, particularly at the lower frets, is substantially easier with lighter strings.

[@jeremythornton433]

I could never in a million years bend a 13 set. I struggle with 11s.

[@rroades]

I agree with the points above as valid, certainly. But being a beginner at 60, I'll be happy if I can ever just play what Rhett played in this video. Technique, constant rhythm and dexterity are my only goals at this point.

[@Angus.Maclean]

I think it also depends on the guitar. With that particular guitar, strumming sounded very stiff with 10s, much better with 12s and the top seemed to get moving with the 13s, but on a lighter braced acoustic 10s may work well. I agree with Rhett that with fingerpicking it was just frequency emphasis rather than better. However, the 13s fingerpicking again had a bloom around the note from the soundboard.

[@DaniToledoMusic]

I think Rick's Gibson is short scale, and that makes the 13 gauge more playable; in 25,5" guitars is a bit too much for most people.

[@RobertVeasquez]

I have found that out with a new beautiful Taylor. Even with 10’s it’s a bear to play. I’ve been thinking of letting it go. I have a 1992 Taylor Dreadnaught and it feels like an electric. I have looked up the specs but do I really need to? My fingers tell me all I need to know.

[@rolandcox5162]

@@RobertVeasquez you need to either adjust the truss and or sand down the bridge. Getting a closer action will make it not feel that way.

[@footnotedrummer]

My Guild is roughly 26" scale and .013 gauge are quite easy to play on it. I'm unsure if it's the way the fretboard radius is or not, but it feels like .012 gauge does on many other guitars. I'm not sure if Rick's fretboard radius is the same as mine or not, but this might also be playing a factor in the comfort of .013 gauge on his as well????

[@sspbrazil]

13’s are way too thick for me.

[@stevealdridge6827]

@@sspbrazil That's what she said.

[@greggesaman535]

The first thing I always do when I get a new acoustic - or one to work on - is to put 10s on it and then do any necessary adjustments to get the action down as low as possible with no - or minimal buzzing. There are a few exceptions like short scale length guitars that get 11s - otherwise it's always 10s. This just transforms the guitar. It still sounds great, but it plays so much easier. Playing guitar is difficult enough without fighting to pull the strings down while playing intricate parts. Playing is smoother, easier, more accurate, and more enjoyable. Any slight change in tone isn't worth giving all that up. I've switched all electrics to 9s for the same reasons.

[@thegrandpencil4374]

The difference in tone between 13's and 10's is not slight, though. It's pretty massive.

[@MrMd5555]

I guess that's why we have options, id rather get the best tone possible & adapt to & get used to heavier string gauge if it means more low end where it's needed. There's Nothing worse to me than settling for pretty good tone but with something missing when you know you're capable of getting perfectly balanced great tone but again that's just me. I totally understand those in the other camp, I go back & forth on this myself from time to time

[@davidkelly1220]

@@thegrandpencil4374 not as massive as clean smooth in time playing more likely from easier strings to play

[@MilesTippett]

Im actually surprised how subtle the difference was.

[@andsalomoni]

It's the difference in volume that is not subtle.

[@GTRxMan]

I think that a lot of the difference is lost on KZbin. It is apparent the first time you play one after the other. I think that we become accustomed to the sound after a short while, though.

[@southsideronnie]

Yes, very subtle. So why are we busting our hands to play 13's?

[@rebuiltbyusn]

I aways had the impression that the string gauge was for ease of use. When I use medium gauge strings I notice I am uncomfortable playing them and do not like that feeling. Where Light and Extra Light strings feel right and so I play more. It seemed to me that the sound went from bright to Mello. You pointed out that the extra lights also made it easier to do hammer ons and offs.

[@666legnadibrom]

yeah you need to stick with the heavies so you get used to them. if you are waffling back and forth constantly of course they will be very uncomfortable

[@wfly81]

I always say play what feels comfortable. Performance is leaps and bounds more important than tone, and you perform best on what you're comfortable with. The tonal difference is so subtle between string gauges, that mic type and placement, preamps, etc are going to color it so much more than string gauge. When buying strings, don't even consider tone...just get what feels good.

[@EclecticHillbilly]

Exactly. Doesn't matter how good the tone is if you can't play it.

[@damonreynolds6775]

Yup. Some of the physically messiest tone I ever heard comes from Maestros Tommy Emmanuel and Vic Wooten. Both obviously lean towards playability first with lighter gauges and dead low action.

[@JohnsDough1918]

@@damonreynolds6775 Doesn't Tommy Emmanuel play 12s and 13s? Not exactly light by the standards of this comment section.

[@damonreynolds6775]

@@JohnsDough1918 If so I stand corrected. Does he detune at all? Whatever he's doing the amount of noise he makes speaks to dead low action and/or lower tension. Whatever it is, clearly nobody cares given the sheer magic produced.

[@zx7-rr486]

Yes, if you are talking tone from string gauge alone, which is subtle, as evidenced by this video. However, tone from amps and pedals (electric world) and the guitar itself (acoustic world) - well that kind of does matter !!! 🙂

[@monkmchorning]

A lot depends on the guitar. A friend of mine strung his lovely vintage Martin parlor guitar with mediums. It was hard to play and the tension on the bracing was wound so tight it sounded like crap. I tuned it down a step and a half and it opened right up. So we strung it at standard tuning with extra-lights and it played and sounded beautiful. Mediums and medium-heavies are for driving big dreadnaughts and jumbos with a flatpick. Smaller guitars and lighter picking techniques want lighter strings.

[@Kamikaze3557]

Curt Mangan 9-42s are my string of choice now, age 64 , arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and a repaired detached bicep tendon on my left arm. I was shocked that I found the tone of them on my Ovations to be useable, obviously not much projection but I’ve never been really picky sense I mainly write songs and play covers for my personal enjoyment .

[@PageMarker1]

I answer the phones when I take my gear into the local music shop so the owner can resolve issues a bit quicker without interruption. One time I asked who it was that was calling and lo & behold it was Curt Mangan himself. Was more than a bit surprised and told him I buy his strings. Whenever I stop in the store I make it a point to buy at least one set of Mangan's. I owe it to myself and to Curt.

[@Old_Sailor85]

Same here, only steel-string 9's on a Taylor. I only own one acoustic and usually play electric, so the string tension is similar. Plus also in my 60's, so arthritis and hand pain....

[@TheSpydersBand]

I use Ernie Ball Super Slinkies…I get to do most of the solos at acoustic jams.

[@itsjavaman]

I think the 12:53's sounded the best, but I really appreciate the insight into playability. Thank you gentlemen.

[@editorjuno]

Back in my pro days I used a 10-47 set on my 1967 D-18 and it sounded glorious. Unless you're playing rhythm in a bluegrass band around a single mic and need to fill that gap between the upright bass and loud, higher-pitched instruments (banjo, mando, fiddle) I don't think there's a reason to go with heavier strings, even on a big dread or jumbo.

[@RobertVeasquez]

Exactly!

[@greghill1936]

Rick, I've been using D'Addario .010-.047s on my Guild G37 for 50 years. Love 'em.

[@badtimesworse]

Great video guys, thanks for filming and posting this! I'm no Doc Watson but I've been playing guitar as a hobbiest for 20 years. I really appreciate the differentiation that was demonstrated between strumming vs fingerpicking. However, one thing I noticed in the video is that no one mentioned setup. It seems that the different gauge strings were just slapped on the guitar with no additional tweaks. The action alone could have possibly allowed Rhett to play the heavier gauges a with a little more ease as was mentioned during the playback. Several years ago I put 13s on my Martin D16, which I use mostly for strumming. I had it setup professionally and the tech explained that the action required being lowered slightly from when I had 12s on it. So although the string gauge was a little heavier, with the lower action I honestly haven't noticed much more difficulty in playing. I also have a Yairi OM, which I use exclusively for fingerpicking. I have 12s on that one but it is setup for 12s. I would consider bumping down to 11s but if I stuck with them, I would probably have the action adjusted for that gauge if it was deemed necessary by my tech. What do y'all think? Does anything I say resonate with anyone?

[@greggesaman535]

I agree that adjusting the setup will help on any gauge, but holy cow using 10s with the action adjusted down for them is like playing butter. I’d only put anything heavier on if I liked torture (which I don’t).

[@badtimesworse]

@@greggesaman535 Very true about the butter part, haha. I never really considered it torture, though. With a little hard work, discipline, and callouses, the transition to 13s wasn't all that difficult for me.

[@SpoonsnStrings25]

Fabulous playing, my favourites are the 10s as well... great idea to do something like that, too, thanks a lot!!

[@jbryn004]

I have a Martin D28 and love the sound of the 13 gauge however they really eat away at the frets and after having a fret job lam now using 12 gauge instead and haven’t lost any of the tone.

[@celticlofts]

I did a test a few years back on my Lowden and Avalon guitars using 12s on the Lowden and 11s on the Avalon and I found the Avalon more comfortable on my fingers which in turn allowed me to play it longer without my fingers getting sore. I'd definatley recommend new players use extra light strings like 11s.

[@briangrobe9544]

I’ve been using D’Addario 10’s since the beginning. I’ve always thought they sounded better than heavier strings. Feels better for me too.

[@philipdeppen3189]

I really dig custom lights .11 .52 gauge strings. I don’t find enough difference in tone fullness etc from them to mediums especially on a good acoustics that actually resonate the wood tones. What I like about the custom lights is I can do bends easily but they aren’t to light to where I’m doing bends when I ain’t trying to. I get more dynamics as well. They are easier on my fingers without being to easy on my fingers where I’m doing things I don’t want done lol. Perfect balance for easy playing yet still have control not doing bends when I don’t want to from chord changes if that makes sense.

[@gazzie12000]

This was very interesting, I was waiting to totally disagree - as I was expecting the old "higher gauge sounds better" argument - but no! I was pleasantly surprised by Rhett's summing up on both strumming and picking tests, what he described was exactly what I heard and exactly what I thought. I always use lighter strings on acoustic, so much easier to play, and to me sounds better too.

[@alextalada7353]

I use 13's on all my 6 stringed acoustics because I have an absolute iron right hand when strumming and I often find that anything lighter gets knocked out of tune too easily. Also, because I pick so hard the 13's really help balance out the top and bottom end for me. Hope that helps for somebody. 🖤 I use D'addario 80/20 bronze strings and Herco 75 picks. Glossy nylon picks get the best tone for both acoustic and electric guitars in my opinion. I've tried them all. Pick gauge and material has a big effect on the sound of any guitar as well as the strings.

[@swampscott2670]

The 12s were my favorites and are incidentally the same set I ended up choosing for my Gibson J45 (with a less scientific method over a longer period of time). Choices for different types and sizes of acoustic guitars may lead to different results.

[@michaelpurkerson4414]

I just put Dadarrio gypsy jazz 10-44 on mine before I saw this. The playability is so good, the tone is different. So good to see this video as I have been questioning this for a while.

[@Jesse19405]

Yes, they have small tonal differences. But playing whatever feels best to you and ispires a better performance will be a much bigger benefit to your overall sound in the big picture.

[@keendeesjarlais3636]

finger-stylist here ,using larivee [mahogany back and sides] and Taylor [ Tasmanian Blackwood] back and sides and mahogany top. my preference are elixir 12- 53 - great clarity, sustain and girth under your left hand. thx for the video

[@tommybrown4191]

The 12s sounded best to me all across the board. I couldn't hear much of a difference between the 10s and 11s. The 12s and 13s sounded more balanced with more low end. The 13s had a little extra low end to my ears than the 12s. Cool video.

[@Jeff_Pendleton]

I've always used 10's on my Alvarez and loved the feel and sound.. But shop owners and luthiers have always degraded that choice. Light strings might wear out a little faster but I play them plenty long anyway. Hard to beat new strings though.

[@wulfman15]

I've been using 10's on my acoustic for 20 years. Never understood the need to put utility pole cables on a guitar and have to fight the guitar. I always get weird comments at guitar center when I buy strings.

[@Lawrence64]

Thank you for putting this together ....I always credited the instrument for the good and bad ...for playability and pleasure, I take the 10's. But this is me, a non profissional almost 60 YO, that plays acoustic nylon and steel string guitars since I was 13. I currently own an Ovation, a Yamaha FG-830 and a very good for the buck Yamaha C-40. Blessings.

[@mikite57]

I've found that not only does the string gauge make a difference on my Breedlove Atlas Series guitars, but so does string composition and brand. I've been using Ernie Ball Earthwood 11s for a while, and am very happy with the balance I get from them. Especially once they have been on a while. I cringe when I change a set of strings, because to me they seem better with some age.

[@euan724]

I've also settled with Earthwood but with 10/52's skinny top heavy bottom, it's the plain G .017" that's the main reason as I find that a wound G lasts me no time at all and I used to have to swap them out for a plain17 or 19, Ernie Ball also do the same set in Nickle for Electric.

[@williams.1130]

Right there with you. I honestly usually can't stand the sound of a new set of strings for a pretty good while

[@pablokagioglu2546]

First of all, I love all the work you do (including the rants and all the WTF moments)…. You are a national treasure dude… I relate to your views a lot, we are from the same era, basically like the same stuff I am subscribed to both of your channels and Rhett’s.. Does string gauge make a difference... Hell Yeah!! BUT... It is not the only variable for any given player (electric or acoustic) there are many factors Given the same guitar and signal chain, and ignoring personal choices (live work vs studio) or stylistically what the song needs, finger/flat picking (slow or fast) tapping or lots of legato... a) Picks: material, thickness, profile, edge finish b) Attack: strength, location (bridge or neck) and angle of the pick C) Material: string alloy, core and wrapping, coating d) Processing: you never just plug another guitar into a rig or change the strings and not "tweak" some parameter to optimize the sound you are lookign for. Nowadays, you can make anything sound like anything. Would love to see a video on: If we change the string gauge, can we get back to the sound we had (or wanted)

[@act.13.41]

If you intend to try this, understand ahead of time, that this will likely require a truss rod adjustment. I went from 13s to 10s on a carbon fiber guitar that never moved a bit, but all the others required an adjustment. The reason is simple, in that thinner strings have less tension on the neck at the same tuning.

[@donwershba2319]

That was my point, as well. A properly relieved neck will always improve playabilty

[@AnWe79]

To add to that, don't be afraid of truss rod adjustments. As long as you go easy and let the neck settle properly, it's no big deal really. Just take your time and don't go crazy, it only takes a little on most guitars.

[@StevenLeeMusician]

I loved the lighter gauge sounds. I have played Elixr 13's for like...forever. I was thinking of switching to lighter gauge cuz of some arthritis in fingers and this convinced to go for it. I liked them better on strumming as well. I heard a distinct difference with lighter gauge on strumming. Less harsh and more even. Liked it a lot. This was a great demo at a period of my life when I was looking for exactly this. Thank you.

[@django02]

Scale length also factors into this. In my experience, 10s on a short scale neck are too floppy for flat picking for me. I agree that there was not much difference between the sets with strumming, but there was a very noticeable difference for the finger picking.

[@michael52250]

Huge difference... probably more than moving up/down 0.001" in gauge...

[@ScottRandall31]

As a former bluegrass and now more indie folk player, I’ve been playing 12’s almost exclusively. For me they allow me to be my most versatile. And D’Addario and then Martin are my go to’s.

[@jimmyheathmusic3779]

Great video. I really liked the sound of the 10s. Rhett made a great point about the performance. He sounded comfortable and great on the 10s and 11s. I wonder why most acoustics ship with 12s?

[@zx7-rr486]

So another video I watched made the point that manufacturers usually design the guitar to resonate (especially the top) with a particular gauge in mind. If you put too much tension on the top (with a heavier gauge) it may not resonate as efficiently, and you actually lose tone/volume. Vice versa for a lighter gauge. Then there's a whole bunch of stuff about truss rod setting and relief. So perhaps 12s is just an industry standard.

[@kingbryn1692]

Interesting that the fatter gauge wasn’t better enough to pass up the lighter gauge. Player preference and feel is everything. As someone who plays both electric and acoustic it’s pretty apparent how much “easier” it is to manipulate the 10s on my electric than it is the 12s on my acoustic. But I do love both. Thanks for the video!!

[@thebayandurpoghosyanshow]

I started on a nylon string guitar, moved to electric with 09-42 strings, and today I tried an acoustic with 13 strings, and let me tell you, I don't want to play 13 strings ever again. I don't care if they sound marginally better, I'll never trade the playability of the instrument for that.

[@ukulelehans1959]

I play mostly 10,s ,tried different brands, and setteld for ernie ball earth bronze (rock/blues). Great sound, very easy to play/ bend. On electric i even went for 8/38 on strat....Plays like a breeze with wonderful low end.

[@Hendrix.]

Just put on a set of EJ 11's (12-53) and they have very good projection. A good mix of bright and good tone. Bigger strings change your action and the right strings can give you a better overall feel ,bigger strings might have a bigger sound but if you're straining so hard that's it's difficult to play cleanly, that's a win-lose situation. I've noticed that strings that're too big can raise your action high enough that notes are pulled sharp when fretted. 12-53 seem to be a good balance on my acoustic guitars. Anything less than that seems to be a bit thin sounding.

[@alexcorll90]

Lighter gauge always sound brighter to me, heavier sound deeper with more mid emphasis. The bigger factor than gauge is tension. In my experience similar gauge strings from different brands feel pretty different. Martin 12/54 feel much more taut than Dadarrio 12/53, even though on paper they should be pretty similar.

[@jbaranowski1990]

Please do the same with bass strings. I'm really curious about that because I always used medium gauge and maybe I need try other gauges to get better tone or playability?

[@fredherfst8148]

Couldn't agree more. Better control of dynamics and easier on ageing digits.

[@rakentrail]

Rick, I've been working on guitars for 40+ years now and have heard a lot of varied opinions. Talk to a bluegrass flat picker and they want the heaviest strings they can get. (they say the light strings just can't move the top enough) I heard a slight loss of top end with the 13's vs the rest. You guys hit on something most people overlook. The best string is the one that let's you play your best! One thing you guys proved is that light strings sound okay and IMHO should be used on older more delicate guitars unless you don't mind shelling out big bucks for a neck reset!

[@rednoise0]

That was interesting! I almost always use 11s on my Guild acoustic, mostly for playability reasons, not necessarily tone. They make fretting easier, especially in the higher positions. But they also tend to rattle more when I play hard. I occasionally use 13s and, while I get more used to them after a while, I find them more fatiguing to play, less fun. Possibly some of those issues would be mitigated by having the guitar set up for one or the other specific gauge. Tonewise, I think all of them in your examples sound fine. The differences are minor. That's the best lesson I take from this - don't worry too much about one gauge being significantly "better" than the other. Find what works best for my particular instrument and my technique.

[@heatherhiggins5016]

Use 12's

[@Charlie-Oooooo]

I'm late to the party (July 2022) but... my 2 cents: They all sound great for their own unique low/mid/high balance. Rhett's comment about pick noise on 13's is spot on, and mainly why I don't use 13's. Best is 10's to 12's depending on the guitar's own frequency balance and lower-mid (i.e. between low and mid) resonance/response. 3rd cent: My favorite sound is the tight lower-mid / mid sound that a parlor sized guitar brings, for both rhythm and lead parts. Also, humidity can really change the sound, due to the change in moisture content of the wood (for the porch and beach jammers out there). Cheers all!

[@fishypaw]

Good timing. I said to a friend last night, I fancy trying 10s. Never tried them before on an acoustic, based on this, I won't be disappointed with the sound.

[@kaindog100]

I recently went from 12s to 10s and will never go back. So much easier to play and my guitar sounds better as I can play it better. 9s on my electrics.

[@elholt7095]

Just gotta try them on your own guitar...a small investment unless you are using expensive strings but even then it may be worth it in the long run. This video is a great start to finding the best gauge for your playing.

[@swamification]

Cool test! Curious, did the truss rod need adjusting between gauges? If not I imagine the action would be much lower with lighter gauges, most contrast between 10s and 13s. Always thought provoking content. Thanks Rick and Co!

[@donwershba2319]

Yes - I was curious about that as well!

[@arthurgordon6072]

@@donwershba2319 Agreed.

[@kevinalewine3931]

My thoughts exactly. I use 13s but with a low action. More susceptible to humidity, but plays like butter with good balance. 97 Taylor 810 WMB.

[@robertnewell5057]

I've experimented with gauges from 10 to 13 and never needed a truss rod adjustment on any acoustic. They are pretty resilient to string gauge changes. Electrics might be a different matter - lower action; longer area affected by truss rod adjustment.

[@weschesternc]

Nice test. I do like phosphor bronze strings, but i prefer a bit heavier string because of the amount of dropped tunings I play in. Then mediums are much more likely to stay buzz free.