I Put Super Light Strings on My 7 String Guitar and This is What Happened

[@VanishedMediaOfficial]

The difference is there. My theory is once you have a guitar set to your personal liking your playing will be more confident and consistent. That extra bit of comfort leads to better playability which equals to better playing leading into better tone. I rock 10s on my 7 string but I tune down a whole step. Morale of the story trust your gut and not what people tell you to do. Stay metal 🤘

[@jasonstallworth]

You nailed it...we have to go with what feels most natural and best for us! And I'm loving the 9s

[@Scarlatamusic]

I was just thinking of switching to a lighter gage string on of my guitars too!! I think you officially convinced me it's time as well!!🤘

[@JohnStuttgen]

I use 9’s in D Standard with a 60mm pick. It’s more comfortable and I play better. I also haven’t noticed it being less heavy at all

[@jeremiahglogg4100]

Dude that is so true. My main tuning is drop G and I use 11-54 & 74 gauges. They're real heavy gauges but I pick the strings very hard so it's comfortable for me. Anyone who asks what string gauge to use should simply experiment with different strings and gauges and find what's best for you.

[@brians1793]

Yeah, it doesn't make as much difference as people think in plugged tone or in the way people might think, you hear it more unplugged and feel it more in how the guitar resonates. But you mostly hear it in the difference it makes in how bends sound depending on the guitarists, you might be able to do some wide vibratos with a ton of control you can't do with higher gauge strings. But then guitarists like SRV can do crazy bends with his extra heavy strings, and Zakk Wylde needs more tension for optimal picking I'm guessing, not sure the exact reason. It pretty much just creates more tension and it depends on tuning and scale length, you mainly just don't want a floppy string, but a tighter string is most noticeable with harmonics as far as the difference it makes from what I hear in tone. I think scale length makes a bigger difference, even at the same tuning with the same tension, the scale length will still affect how it sounds like if you have an 8 string at 30" scale compared to a 27" that uses a heavier gauge for the same tension, it'll sound very different even if it's the same string brand, pickups, and everything else. You'll never get that 27" to sound like the 30".

[@randomcompdude]

You seem like a good stand up dude, and your speaking voice makes me feel motivated.

[@jasonstallworth]

🙏 that's what it's all about!

[@randomcompdude]

@@jasonstallworth not gonna lie, you also make me want to tackle the quarterback.

[@the_campfire_official]

I just recently set up my 8 String with a much thinner set and I couldn't be happier. My leads are sharper and my lows seem to still have enough balls to djent. As far as the full mixes they both sounded solid. The 9's almost sound crisper but it's not a HUGE difference. Love the video man! Keep it up!

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, I bet it's a lot easier on your hands, too! And those lighter strings on lower tunings help the bass guitar stand out so your mix is better.

[@rurkovmj]

Glad you are back Jason

[@jasonstallworth]

🤘

[@algrundau9441]

BRILLIANT.....The "thin string" on top was originally how Steve Vai approached to whole 7 string idea......Before the dudes from Korn had everyone downtuning to the abyss....(Still have baritone guitars from that era) But another excellent point about "how small changes in 1 or 2 area's can make MASSIVE difference's in all area's of life." THAT is SO true. We often look for the big "home run hitter" big change. And often, a slight change to diet, training, playing guitar. reading, money, whatever.....Can make a HUGE difference. Well said Jason. Cheers!

[@jasonstallworth]

Man, I'm so glad you pointed all of that out in your comment, and thank you!

[@algrundau9441]

@@jasonstallworth The whole World needs "little changes" ...Where else do we start? Cheers Jason!....Long Live Metal.

[@jrock8233]

Sounds killer my man! 🤘🤘 Dino Cazarez from Fear Factory i read an interview like many many years ago and he says that he uses 9-52 on his 7 because he noticed that he loses a lot of the crunch if he went thicker.

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah I noticed that as well!

[@Bjornsguitarspecials]

I did the same. I changed from 10s to 9s and it made a difference. I can control my bends better and lighter strings wil brighten the tone a bit. I’m happy with the change

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, that one little change makes a big difference!

[@Sublight77]

As an older dude where arthritis and tendons and everything is a mess lol, lightening up on strings can make a world of difference, actually lightening up on your playing and fingers too, big difference, can play faster and smoother playing really light, then dig in when you need the extra chug. but hell its all to personal taste, part of the fun is floating around trying different stuff.

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, the joints and all aren't the same as we age. And lighter strings help so much with that. And I think that's been part of my struggle with my off and on relationship with my 7 string guitar. It's a much larger neck and that can cause pain over time.

[@Sublight77]

@@jasonstallworth i hear ya loud and clear, 7 strings are a bit tougher on my hands

[@scottgroves5204]

Yes...Difference is pretty noticable. Lighter string are less muddy sounding and cut through the mix a lot better. Just so you know...I just purchased my 1st 7 string a LTD SN-1007 HT , and am following your tips! And so far so good. Making my transition so much better than I expected. Otherwise...I may have wanted to sell it a stick with 6! Thanks Jason! Been so very helpful! :)

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah the lighter strings made all the difference for me!

[@davelanciani-dimaensionx]

As I've gotten older, and just don't play as much, I prefer less tension in my strings. So I use .009's for E Standard tuning, and .010's for D Standard tuning. Nothing heavier than .010's. I find lighter, thinner strings tend to vibrate better and longer. You get better feedback and sustain. Heavier strings don't vibrate as much, and tend to stop vibrating sooner. Tony Iommi used .009's and tuned down to C# Standard, and his tone was always killer.

[@jasonstallworth]

Brother, it's time for you to start playing more and I want to encourage you to jump in! And yes, having less tension really helps with your hands as we age!

[@Nickshreds890]

Thank you Jason ! I’ve been looking online to see any examples of people playing 7 string guitar with super slinky strings ! I am looking to use them as I want my 7 string to playas easily as possible ! My 6 strings have 9 gauge strings so why not make it easier on the 7 string too! Now it’s time for me to watch the video and hear how they sound !! :) If the 09 gauge strings mean I don’t have to push down as hard ( yes im working on reducing how much I push down ) and they make bends and vibrato easier then I will be super duper happy !!!

[@Nickshreds890]

I might be foolish but I didn’t hear a huge difference . The 7 string guitar does sound a bit more chunky and I noticed that even on lower string riffs it sounded very tight and there was no noticeable loss in tone to me ! I look forward to trying it too :)

[@jasonstallworth]

Man, the 9s made a huge difference and I was just talking to a good friend today about not makings more difficult than they need to be, aka lighter strings!

[@WhiskersJelly]

I loved playing my guitars with boat anchor ropes as strings. At least I thought I did ..... My 6 string in C was set up with 13-62. I played 11s in standard E. I'm now playing 9s again and have similarly rediscovered my enthusiasm for playing. As a bonus, I get much less fatigued with my fretting hand. I still am working on relaxing my grip on the neck and the pick with the lighter strings.

[@jasonstallworth]

The fatigue is a big thing, too, and I may talk more about that in a different video.

[@scsreaper]

In all honesty, I love playing 8s. Smooth and comfortable. But you turned me on to elixirs, which seem to only come in 9s as the thinnest through my sources. I'm torn. But I thoroughly enjoy the elixirs. It works for me now. Adaptability.

[@jasonstallworth]

Dude, I've never tried 8s that I can remember. But yeah, I've been using Elixirs for over 20 years now. Anytime I tried another brand, I quickly went back to Elixir

[@x--LeethaL--x]

Rock on brother 🖤

[@jasonstallworth]

🤘

[@brandoncondatore1051]

Thank you for making this video. I have been recently experimenting switching back to 9's on my 6 strings. I bought my first 7-string it is a multi-scale 9-62. Also I just say it sounds like you've gotten a lot more comfortable on 7 strings seeing this video vs. Some of your earlier videos with 7-strings.

[@jasonstallworth]

I struggled with it for sure, but yeah the lighter strings made a huge difference. I need to change strings now that we're talking about it!

[@Hicks-g1m]

That sounds so awesome Jason I would love to learn how to play a 7th and even 8 string guitar but my hands would have to get used to how big the fret board is LoL 😆 happy holidays 🎄⛄🦌👍🆒🤶🎅🤘

[@Emily_M81]

Believe in me who believes in you. I would say play them if you can find them; I like ESP 7-string necks better than Ibanez, and I like my Legator 8 multiscale over my 27" 8-string Ibanez.

[@jasonstallworth]

Man, that was a concern for me as well! And it was part of my ongoing struggle with the 7 (I'm honestly not interested in playing an 8 string). I can say that the lighter gauge strings have solved that problem. It's much easier to play now

[@jasonstallworth]

Emily, I was considering selling my ESP and getting an Ibanez 7 string because I'm a big fan of their wizard necks. But going with 9s seems to have helped...my ESP is much easier to play now

[@zAvAvAz]

emg's bright crunch on the chordal chugs loves the smaller strings. Even with the 10-56 it was absent enough that i prefer the 52's. You could still use the 10 set with a 52 on the low. My custom Scourge 8 string by Monson guitars is going to be short scale with a floyd and tune up high.

[@jasonstallworth]

I noticed that as well, and prefer that in the mix

[@jimberjamber8540]

So I primarily play baritone 6 strings, and the main reason is because I just don't like the tension I get for B standard on my 25.5" scale 7 string. I really love playing 7 strings though, so I decided to do a similar experiment with a set of 9-42's and a 52 for the low B, but instead I tuned a full step up to C# standard instead. Of course the 9 can't handle being tuned up to F# so I ended up keeping it tuned to E so it's tuned down a third (kinda like DADGAD tuning). I LOVE the tension I get now. Nice and tight but not to the point of the strings being too hard to bend. I kinda wanna try an 8 or maybe a 7 and see if I can get that high string up to F#.

[@jasonstallworth]

Man, I've had a weird relationship with my 7 string and I actually have it up for sale on Sweetwater used gear site

[@joelhenry2254]

I can hear the super light strings react slightly faster when u hit notes

[@deadheadbetty6663]

Nice guitar bro great channel man

[@jasonstallworth]

Thank you, glad you enjoy it and hopefully the tips help. I've got some cool stuff coming out this week (metal lesson and amp demo)

[@jethrotannis5673]

The tens sounded way tighter and better to me before the mix. The 9s had pretty uncontrolled lows and mids. In the mix there was so much compression there was virtually no difference between the two sounds. But I agree with your general sentiment the most important thing for shaping your tone is your personal comfort.

[@jasonstallworth]

As far as the mix, I did not put any compression on but what you're probably hearing is there are two rhythm tracks hard panned left-right and that makes a big difference in overall tone. But yeah, I prefer the playability of 9s

[@BranniganCarter]

I looked at getting an E2 but settled on a Schecter Reaper for the multi scale. Can’t wait til it gets delivered. I’ve been learning a lot from your channel man!

[@jasonstallworth]

🙏🤘

[@darksaga6095]

Cool channel and music. Awesome comment about playing whatever you find comfortable. I personally play Light top and heavy bottom D'Addario. Sometimes go heavier bottom.

[@jasonstallworth]

Thank you. Yes, going with what feels most natural is always best

[@darksaga6095]

@@jasonstallworth you got it man. You should check out our music. It's king diamond, slayer and maiden in one.

[@jackbootshamangaming4541]

I've been looking at changing gauge, but going up. I use the Ernie Ball Cobalt Slinkies. I use the standard gauge right now, was going to go to the Skinny Top Heavy Bottoms, although now I want to give these lighter gauges a try. Sadly EB doesn't have any lighter gauges for 7 string packs. I am in Drop G. I could tell a small difference, not at all substantial.

[@jasonstallworth]

🤘

[@jackbootshamangaming4541]

I went all the way to 80-13, with a 36w for the 3rd. Loving it. @@jasonstallworth

[@dce2119]

For 7 string guitars with floyd rose bridges I changed from 10s to 9s because I wanted to loosen up the bridge. The extra tension brought by an extra string forced me to use one more spring at the back of my floyd than I'm used to. I'm happier than ever with the result, but it all boils down to my preference and the bridge I'm using. I'm sure there are other bridges which handle 7 string .10 sets just fine with less springs.

[@jasonstallworth]

It's definitely a lot less effort with 9s

[@alecsmith5150]

Please do an instructional lesson on those riffs. Your songs are really fun to play! Anywho, your older lessons with you playing the LTD and Prestige, I've been jamming those on my 7-string. Doing that in order to get use to the thickness of those 7-string necks.

[@jasonstallworth]

That lesson will be out in a day or so!!

[@nesbittinstrumentals]

I've been using 10-56 in standard on my 7, and after a couple hours of playing, my hand needs a break. I just ordered a set of 9-54. Hoping that the left hand doesn't get as wore out. Also dropping the pick gauge from 1mm to 88mm

[@jasonstallworth]

That's one thing I notice, in general, on a 7 string. My hands get tired (maybe I'm just old! lol) But the 9s certainly help

[@nesbittinstrumentals]

My Jackson was strung in the factory with 9-52s.

[@BazonBlades]

Tuning preference can be all over the place depending on the person. I have played guitars that have made me shake my head....But the owners could throw down on them. Go figure. I set up all my guitars the same. 25.5" scale length, strung with 10's and tuned one step flat. Both 6 and 7 string guitars are the same and I never deviate from that set up.

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, I think 10s are perfect for that E flat or even D standard tuning

[@p0kerp1aya]

I'm watching this video on my phone, so I can't hear any subtle difference that may be there. However the most important thing is how the 9's feel to you, and if they inspire you to pick up your guitar and play. Keep rocking brother. 🤙🎸🎶🎵

[@jasonstallworth]

It's definitely about feel and I really love the 9s. It's ignited that fire for playing 7 string

[@Datakenta]

I want lessons on this🎸🤘

[@jasonstallworth]

I'll be working on that video soon!

[@MorrisChannel4]

The thickest i used have been .065. My main 7 has .056 on there at the moment. I may moved back to .09 but have the low b at .054

[@jasonstallworth]

🤘

[@MORTIFICER]

Subscribed. Like the content and vibes.

[@jasonstallworth]

Thank you, I appreciate that

[@jeffreyschned4200]

I like the 9s tone and fluency in playing seemed a little more relaxed... i went from 10s to 9.5-44 on my 6strings made a diff in my playing and tone...

[@jasonstallworth]

It's definitely personal preference. Some folks play better with heavier strings.

[@jeffreyschned4200]

@@jasonstallworth true ... i do use a 10 or 11 depending on how the guitar takes or sounds while down a full step or more... i guess that while down tuned the strings are looser and a 10 or 11 would feel like a 9.5...

[@Ramble1234]

I use 9-62 gauge strings on my 26.5" 7 string Jackson in A standard, and I couldn't be more happy with it. Super flexible when soloing and chunky with the low end. For my 6 strings, I use 9-42 elixirs in E for my Floyd rose, 10-52 in D and 11-56 d'addarios in C/B Standard. Light strings really work great for what they are, especially since you can't really hear a difference with distortion on. I would use 8 gauge strings on my floyd rose, but I prefer elixir strings since they're coated and last so much longer. (I have sweaty hands) shame that the don't make 8s, but it's totally worth not changing stings every damn week lol. Hell, even on my short scale acoustic I use 11-52 elixirs and they play and feel great! I don't regret it!

[@jasonstallworth]

I need to go down to 11s on my acoustic, so I'm glad you mentioned that. I have 12s on my Martin and it's kind of tough to play 3-4 hour shows with.

[@msi1985]

I am currently rocking a 26 and a 1/2 inch scale length, and I've found using 9-46 with a 58 or 60 on the low B. It feels wonderful to play! If I stay in B standard or tune up to drop A# with the rest of the guitar tuned F to F! But some songs I've been working at learning are either in A# standard or Drop A... so I've switched to 10-60, and it's held solid and sounds great, but I'm stuck not being able to tune UP to that keith merrow tuning used in pillars of creation 🙃

[@jasonstallworth]

🤘

[@damonwolf793]

The difference is subtle but noticable. Lighter gauge strings do make a difference in tone and feel,but it does all boil down to preference. I personally like heavier gauge strings but that's because I tune down a half step. For instance I use 10-46 on me E flat guitar my V sharp standard guitar had 11-49s on it and my 7 string has 10-59s because it's down a half step. The important thing is the feel and playability of the instrument,and if lighter strings do it for you than fine. It's all up to the player.

[@jasonstallworth]

I think the 10s are perfect for the E flat tuning. You're right, it's all in what inspires us!

[@robertgrubs]

What's up brother. Do you do any private lessons if so, what do you charge? By the way your an awsome guitarist. I dig your style. Keep on Rockin🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘.

[@jasonstallworth]

Thank you. My schedule doesn't allow for private sessions but I do have guitar courses online and this is my beginner's metal guitar course: www.jasonstallworth.com/courses/

[@DavidTaylor-ml3wx]

It's a very subtle difference, but the difference is there. The 10's are a little beefier sounding. Personally I think it sounds better, heavier, but that's just me.

[@jasonstallworth]

Thanks for the feedback. I think it was more of a feel type of thing for me as I'm used to 9s on a 6-string guitar

[@cmdrbobert9862]

Your video has helped me decide. I've been using .010-.056 on my Ibanez RGIF7, and I think it was a mistake. The action is far too high, and it's much harder for me to play. I'm going to grab a pack of .009-.054 and see what happens.

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, check out the 9s. I even like the tone better with the lighter strings and plays much easier

[@ericsmith6633]

On all my baritone 7s I run 9-58g for drop A and it’s perfect for me. I have a EII horizon baritone and those strings on that guitar is just killer!!! Biggest thing is the guitar just needs to be set up properly, neck set right, and the guitar will play way better! But I’m not a thick gauge string player either. I think lighter g strings sound better, more crisp, and don’t lie as fast as thicker strings. To me anyway

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, just that small change made a huge difference and I'm loving my 7 a lot more now

[@gearhead2017]

For years I used ghs boomers and tried the evh strings and that made a difference in tone,they were louder and brighter,was on amazon and saw they had 9 46 and got a pack,I'm sold on ernie ball strings! So I'll get the 3 pack of the hybrid ernie balls,they are more comfortable on the fingers,after watching this you have a new sub 🤘

[@jasonstallworth]

Thank you for the sub. I’ve tried so many different strings but always when back to Elixirs. I think I’m so used to those coated strings that it’s hard to play anything else’s

[@mikerauter1859]

The winner here is Elixir strings they slap hard Bro!

[@jasonstallworth]

They're both Elixirs but I just went from 10s to 9s. I've been using Elixirs for over 20 years! Anytime I've tried another brand, I quickly went back to Elixir

[@Mr.krabz2182]

I had these before, i feel like the output is a little bit weaker but thats about it as far as ive found, comfy to play and last a good while

[@jasonstallworth]

As far as the brand Elixir, I've been using those for a couple of decades now and anytime I've changed brands, I wasn't happy and quickly went back to Elixir. I do like the feel of the 9s overall much better

[@將軍英雄MILITARYHERO]

The heavier the more muddier & bottom end! The lighter the more punchier & clarity! I would take string 7,6,5 with all same heavier gage, while string 4,3,2,1 all super light gages but of course on the non floating bridged & reverse headstock guitars. By the way, is there a possible for you & Kevin Frasard doing some guitar stuffs together? That would be awesome! 👍🤘🙏🙌

[@jasonstallworth]

That's a great point! And that's something I noticed as well. Oh, and Kevin and I did a collab a while back: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4SziaWMmbF2d6c

[@將軍英雄MILITARYHERO]

So good! You and Kevin made for each others! 👍🤘🙏🙌

[@zyxwfish]

I have 8-38 plus a 56 for the low B on my 7 string

[@jasonstallworth]

I didn't realize they made 8s but that's interesting!

[@zyxwfish]

@@jasonstallworth I put together my own custom pack. Even 7’s exist.

[@brandonbryson3317]

Jason, been watching you for years and was horrified to see I wasn’t subscribed hah I just fixed that. Anyways, I def feel you on the light gauges being more inspiring to play. Just gotta adjust the pick attack. That being said, 52 is REALLY light for a Low B haha I’m used to a 64, and often use a 52 for me E flat 6 strings haha but I think I’m gonna drop down to a 59 - 60 on my 7 string, as the 64 is a bit much.

[@jasonstallworth]

Dude, thank you so much for the support and the sub! Yeah, it really comes down to what you're comfortable with. I never cared for heavy strings but a lot of metal players love them.

[@iduncanw]

Any difference seemed mostly pretty subtle to me, might be KZbin compression though. Both still sounded pretty sweet and if 9s help Keep it Metal that's all that counts 🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, KZbin kinda kills the sound! lol

[@bierutki]

Super lights have a slight change in the higher tones. Light seems to muffle the higher tone ever so slightly.

[@jasonstallworth]

It's definitely a preference. I'm loving the playability of the 9s...kinda made me love my 7 string more!

[@Jeremy-zj2jo]

It's all about the wiggle!! Not, the size!!! Never forget! Lol

[@jasonstallworth]

😂

[@stevemoutard1972]

The .009's seemed brighter. I'm liking it

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah I like the 9s much better

[@patrick3443]

I have 52 on mine but have to keep it at Beadgbe or it's to sloppy

[@jasonstallworth]

🤘

[@Twy7chTec_Shop]

Yea dude, mos def do a lesson on that sorta thing, lol why not?? And I am totally with you when it comes to lighter strings too. I've got (4) 7-Strings lol and they each are in there own tuning, have specific string gauges depending on the tuning 😄 The most temperamental, customized Guage I have is on my 7-string Multi-Scale FanFret (9.5-58, Standard B)

[@jasonstallworth]

🙏🏻🤘

[@Twy7chTec_Shop]

@@jasonstallworth 🦾🤘🏻💯😎🤓🎸

[@ToneD5150]

Sounds a little brighter, which sounds good. Did the intonation change at all...???

[@jasonstallworth]

The only thing I messed with were the screws in the back but didn't mess with the intonation at all and the action is still setup where I want it.

[@nickkoabel]

I use 9-42 with a 56 on my 27" scale Ibanez RG2027XL tuned to Bb and it is perfect to me. I can only use 10s if I'm tuning down to A or lower. I use Nanowebs, too. I kill every other type of string. lol

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah I love the Nanowebs!

[@entyzst]

I feel like the small preference details is what really matters when playing guitar. I have bought jackson js 7 string which was equipped with 9-52 strings stock and I did shocking thing of downtuning to G# Standard and it's the first time I'm tuning that low with such light strings and Its most comfortable I've ever been on guitar. And my picking technique gotten much more precise just because you need to hit more accurately and evenly with lighter strings. But then If you think about it, Iommi was playing .42 in C# on gibson scale with no problem and I have .42 on C# on 26.5 on 6th string which means I could probably go down a halfstep more haha. But if you go to the internet everybody is like "you need .74 for that tuning or it will be too floopy" which is not whole truth. You gotta try yourself and see if it works for you.

[@jasonstallworth]

Very true…it’s all about what works for you 🤘

[@bgomusicco]

For me, I love the cleaner sound of heavy strings (I have a heavy picking technique) but I don't like to play them. I have also settled with 9s.

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, a lot of that comes with your style and pick attack

[@schecter7elite801]

Those 9s sound amazing on that 7 string. 🤘 Id love to hear thinner strings on a baritone. 🙂

[@jasonstallworth]

I do love the 9s on pretty much all guitars!

[@schecter7elite801]

@@jasonstallworth hell yeah brother. 🤘 I have 10s on my Ibanez. This convinced me to go to lighter gauge. 🤘

[@JMDV1]

I wonder if 9-54 would work for Bb standard

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah I think you could get by with that

[@daveklein6585]

Yo!!!.. I liked the sound of the .9s better.. more clarity it seemed.. so what is the Low B string gauge on that .9 set?? .. and what is the scale length of your Jackson???

[@jasonstallworth]

Man, that's exactly what I noticed more clarity. That could have something to do with my style being less aggressive that most. Guitarists that play with an aggressive attack may benefit from heavier string. But I'm loving the 9s on this thing!

[@daveklein6585]

@Jason Stallworth totally... So are you tuning to B standard? And what is the low B string guage?

[@jooyoonchung3593]

So … question. How old were the 10s before you switched them out with 9s? Is part of the reason why the 9s sounded brighter simply due to them being newer? I agree 100% about playability. I played 9s for years; then took a break. Picked up a new EC1000 a few months back to get back into it, and it was strung with 10s. I remember thinking, man, did I really lose so much hand strength? And it took me a long time to realize: DUH you used to play with 9s! Lol. So I switched to 9s and I’m back in the zone. Anyway love the riffs, and love the content. Keep it up!

[@jasonstallworth]

Those were several months old but Elixirs don't really lose their tone, especially when the guitar isn't played as much and sitting in your room (I haven't used this guitar live for a while). But yes, the 9s feel so much better

[@joshlogan3337]

Try them Curt Mangen 8's........

[@jasonstallworth]

🤘

[@GoBuyMulk]

If u didnt mention having super light strings on your 7 we probably wouldnt have noticed ahahah. Sounds great

[@jasonstallworth]

Lol...that's a great point! I should have started the video out comparing both and not saying anything!

[@crypto_skull_z3910]

It is a matter of preference with string gage unless your down tuning really low then you need a little thicker gage to keep things tight. Quick question, what IR’s are you using with bius fx 2 to make it not sound muddy? Mine all the IR’s that come with it sound like my amp is under water. Even when I import some other ones I have it still doesn’t sound anything like what your getting. I have the elite edition and I want to use it but I can’t get the tone to sound full and open. Love your video and your playing!!!!

[@jasonstallworth]

Definitely a matter of preference, and thank you for the kind words. For this video, I used the Loomis amp (in the Metal Pack, which is extra) with the Celestion V30s. To me, those Celestions (in the Classic Pack) made a big difference. I have another video posting today or tomorrow with all of the amps in the Metal Pack but just using the default cabinets they're paired with, which sounds decent. As far as their other IRs, man, I didn't care for them at all!

[@epicmetalness]

the 10s sound better. slightly less top end and slightly more compressed and even tonal range. not a big deal and can be compensated (in either direction) with the smallest EQ tweak

[@jasonstallworth]

I think we'd also have to listen on a better sound source. The only difference I could tell was the 9s were a little brighter...that could have also been that they were new strings. But Elixirs are great about keeping their tone for weeks.

[@epicmetalness]

@@jasonstallworth good point about them being new, I hadent thought of that

[@Sammgm]

I've been running a 9's set with a 59 bottom string to get a more even tension across the strings. 10's on a 26.5 scale always felt like overkill to me and as you say, it kills the tone

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah dude, I noticed that the tone sounded a little muddy with the 10s The 9s have more clarity, at least to my ears

[@charleschastain829]

Axseipian atomizer... sweet 7 man..

[@jasonstallworth]

🙏🤘

[@instrumentalist28]

You didn't have buzzing problems with the .52 low b??? I always did on my 7 string guitars with trems, I had to use a .60 gauge

[@jasonstallworth]

That's usually a setup issue and I take my guitars to a local shop to get them properly setup

[@80s_kid]

IMO for the low B string, 52 is not enough for stable intonation. Beyond that, it's a matter of taste.

[@jasonstallworth]

Love the name 80s kid...that's totally us! Yeah, string gauge is definitely a preference. As I'm playing with the 9s more, I seem to have more clarity with that lower string now. I always thought there was a slight bit of muddiness with the heavier B string. But I think a lot of that comes down to style. I have a lighter touch than many, so that could be the difference.

[@80s_kid]

Thanks for the detailed explanation, Jason! Yes, the strength of picking, string action and playing style also matter. I don't have a strong touch either (in my opinion), I use 6 strings with 25.5 scale length, low string action and I don't go thinner than 54 for C. For drop B, I use 56 at the moment but it is a bit loose for my taste, 57 (maybe 58) would be better. (D'Addario.) As many people, as many different priorities and sounds. I think the too thick and tight strings don't affect the sound well beyond a certain point. Of course this is very much a matter of taste, see the late Stevie Ray Vaughan who used 0.13 on his Fenders - OK, in Eb tuning but it is still thick. Or Phil Collen (Def Leppard), who (also) uses 13-56 strings (not in drop tuning) with a metal pick, which is brutal. :)

[@michaeltobin3547]

The heavier strings sound a little heavier, elixir strings is what I use, been learning guitar for just over 2 years. Your videos inspire me to keep playing. Thanks for such great videos. Keen to hear your thoughts on the Australian Maton guitar? And I’m in Australia 😂

[@jasonstallworth]

Awesome to hear that and thank you for supporting the channel! I've never heard of that brand but would love to try one

[@michaeltobin3547]

@@jasonstallworth Tommy Emanuel plays Maton. So does Keith Urban.

[@trevordolhan1060]

I gotta be honest. Listening to the comparison in my studio headphones I feel like the heavier strings actually had more punch and clarity. While the lighter string gauge was noisier and had less definition. While the SL's were better in the highs, the lites were better in the lows. Just my eery opinion of course. lol

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah it’s weird how we all hear things differently. The main thing for me was the playability with lighter strings. I’ve never been a fan of heavier strings.

[@trevordolhan1060]

@@jasonstallworth Cool vid though man. On the flip side of what I heard from your guitar I watched a shootout from Beato with string gauges ringing from 8 to 11. The 8's had phenomenally better clarity and punch than the 11's. So perhaps its just the response I'm getting through my headphones. Thanks for the vid. Keep it metal brotha!! \m/

[@nufit7]

thanks jason. lighter string for more comfortable play, it's a good advice for me

[@jasonstallworth]

Yes, to me it's all about comfort!

[@catalyzed8457]

I have the optiweb 9-52 on mine and love them, I tried the 10’s once and hated them. More clarity for me and easier to hit pinch harmonics on that low b string. I’m not sure if they measure the string thickness before or after the coating either?

[@jasonstallworth]

That's a great question...I don't know how they measure that either. But yes, I am loving the 9s for all the reasons you mentioned!

[@jotunbjorn]

That's a baritone, I take it? I've got a 28" Schecter 8-string and I'm using .008-.042, 56, 74 custom Ernie Balls. It's impossible for me to bend the high e unless it's a .008".

[@jasonstallworth]

It's just a normal 7 string, ESP E-II Horizon FR-7. Yeah, I would imagine a baritone would need even lighter strings for those bends.

[@ricksanchezito8972]

That's a kick ass guitar 🤘🤘

[@jasonstallworth]

Thank you! I've got an entire video on it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYOxq32qo5aUh6c

[@donbishop6994]

If anything, the 10s seem to have a little more "presence". Maybe a very slightly more volume? If you didn't tell us you made the change, and didn't tell us when the changes happened in the mix, we probably wouldn't have been able to notice it. Add crowd noise and I doubt anybody could tell live.

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah man, I think you're right. If you didn't know there was a change, no one would really hear any difference. I love the way the 9s feel though and really glad I made this change.

[@alaindouge5499]

Freaking Cool!

[@jasonstallworth]

🤘

[@Emily_M81]

it gets worse, Jason. I looked up the E-II and it's like my SC-607; 27" scale length AND you were using 10s :D I'm actually using a .120 to .035 set on one of my 5-string basses and it's my favorite bass right now. it's a little tricky to find 9s for 7-string sets in general which is kind of sad. EB makes a Super Slinky set, D'Adarrio makes an XL set; I might buy their NYXL 009-080 set for my 607 and drop the thicc string. There's a few others, but I guess they expect everyone to tune their 7s down or something. I could pretty easily hear the difference on your guitar, just like I can hear the difference on my 8-strings where one has a .074 and the other a .080 tuned to G1. More crisp, tighter definition, etc. Neither is bad per se, just what the player wants :)

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, Elixir didn't have 9s in production for a while and that was irritating! I'm so glad they started making them again! The 9s seems to have more clarity. The heavier strings on those lower notes were always a bit muddy to me. Now, that could be just my style. I don't have an aggressive playing style. More so a lighter touch. Folks that have more of an aggressive attack may prefer heavier strings. I need to find bass strings for my 5 string that I'm happy with. I've yet to try Elixirs on that (I think I've just used the GHS strings). One thing I've noticed is that there's a big change of tone going from the A to D string, and it doesn't sound natural. So I'll take any recommendations you have!

[@TwistedIdentity]

What's your action at the 12th fret with those 9 gauge strings? And are you able to go to drop A or no? I'm sure ours are setup totally different but the 7 string I have HAS to have a minimum of like a 58 for the 7th if I want drop A without it sounding like fart.

[@jasonstallworth]

I've got the action as low as possible without buzzing. Sweetwater did a great job at the initial setup and I've never messed with it (going from 10s to 9s didn't impact that at all). I never drop tune so I wouldn't know about that

[@TwistedIdentity]

@@jasonstallworth ahh okay. Lol I'm always tinkering, I've had a piss poor experience with Sweetwater any time I buy a guitar from them though. I decided to go for 9-46 with a 59 on the bottom last night then I lowered the action a good bit. I'm digging it

[@dekjeg]

I think for me the 9s were quite a bit brighter And yes do a vid on the lead 🍻

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, they stand out a bit more. And I love the playability of 9s over the 10s.

[@rev1023]

I only heard a significant difference on the the rhythms, the rest the very little difference. The 9 were much crisper and with solid chunks sound. Those 10's were a bit muddy on the rhythms.

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, thats what I had always heard with my 10s...it was like something was missing. Really loving the 9s

[@brandonbryson3317]

Gotta say…I’m shocked it intonates correctly on the B string. 52 on a 25.5 is super light. Haha I have used a 52 in standard before. Couldn’t imagine it on a B string.

[@jasonstallworth]

I was a little concerned at first but it turned out perfectly. I've never been a fan of heavy strings

[@charleschastain829]

Metallite, 🪓 chop chop chop love it...

[@jasonstallworth]

🙏🤘

[@ZinoAmare]

I did hear something, but It won't matter, if it sounds good it sounds good :D

[@jasonstallworth]

That's a great point!

[@dimahunter1797]

What is your scale leight on this 7 strings?

[@bucknasty69]

27 inches

[@jasonstallworth]

Coleman has it in the comment below. But I have a video on this guitar here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYOxq32qo5aUh6c

[@dimahunter1797]

@@bucknasty69 seems like 9-54 must be good on this 27 scale for standard B. I didn't try, I use 6 strings.

[@bucknasty69]

@@dimahunter1797 Longer scale lengths are going to raise string tension, so using a lighter set of strings can’t hurt. I also misspoke, it looks like the guitar in this video has a 25.5 inch scale length according to ESP’s website. However, Jason’s guitar is several years older than the current version so they could have changed the specs. I only said 27 inches because all of ESPs other 7 string Horizons have a 27 inch scale length.

[@bucknasty69]

@@dimahunter1797 Also as far as strings go, use whatever you’re comfortable with. On electric guitar it isn’t going to make that much of a difference tone wise, especially with distortion and effects. With a good amp you can eq out whatever tone differences you may notice.

[@leonidaspapanikolaou3165]

It is hard to hear a difference. I believe what is more critical is how the strings feel to the player, because it will also affect the tone I use both sizes for my 7 string. I use Elixir exclusively. You are right, I remember their production problem!

[@jasonstallworth]

That's what I noticed, too. I don't hear a substantial difference in tone. But the playability for me is so much better now with the super lights.

[@leonidaspapanikolaou3165]

@@jasonstallworth, I agree. And both have advantages and disadvantages. Heavier strings will stay in tune better. But lighter strings are handier for bends and solos.

[@tedwrink]

What tuning are you in on this guitar please ? Thanks

[@jasonstallworth]

always standard

[@duayynnneremm757]

Before I joined the band I am currently in I played 6 strings in standard E with 10-48's. Then I joined the band and all the sudden I'm playing 7-strings in drop A tuning. After some trial and error I ended up with 9-42's then a 59 for that low b that's dropped to A. Feels absolutely perfect

[@jasonstallworth]

That sounds like a good plan for the drop!

[@controversywithkdawg6077]

That sounds like it would be an awful and huge jump going from 7th string to the 6th if your going from 59-42

[@swedensniping]

@@controversywithkdawg6077 Why should it be a problem? I play with 10-46 and a 74 in alternate drop F with no problems lol

[@rurkovmj]

for me 10a all the way but you can control gauge by eq a bit then what you like stick to it folks😉

[@jasonstallworth]

Definitely gotta go with what feels best to you

[@sirsaj]

the 9s sound a bit more brighter and crisper. The 10s have a deeper more muffled to tone to them.

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah, I always thought that the 10s had less clarity for my style of playing. I don't have an aggressive attack

[@R1GAMBLER]

what's your favorite tuning for your 7 ?

[@jasonstallworth]

I'm always in standard

[@thomascoolberth2648]

what tuning ?

[@jasonstallworth]

I'm always in standard

[@alexfox4904]

To me the 52s have more mids and a little more clarity in the gallops

[@jasonstallworth]

I'm hearing that as well. I always thought the guitar sounded a bit muddy until I switched to 9s

[@alexfox4904]

Did you used the same Low Cut Filter positions in the Mix as on 56s or did you Cut Out less on the 52s?

[@anthonyfinch550]

"why're you workin so hard" ..... --B. B. KING

[@jasonstallworth]

🤘

[@obsolescentmystic2527]

A couple of factors here to me are, your guitar has actives which always muddy the water a bit and your tone sounds really mid scooped. There's definitely more definition and "fat" with the heavier strings though. I'll always prefer that.

[@jasonstallworth]

That's the one thing I'll do different if I get another 7 string...I'll get one with passive pickups. I've come to prefer those. Like my Ibanez RG1570 it has the stock V7/V8 and I love those better than most active pickups that I've played.

[@obsolescentmystic2527]

@@jasonstallworth yeah, I'm a big Dimarzio pickups player so I like my mids and I will say with super middy tones, you really notice string gauges more. Palm mutes will have almost no power on light strings even with high action to compensate and your clarity suffers.

[@controversywithkdawg6077]

The mick Thomson Seymour Duncan humbucker rocks try it

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

Wow, lighter gauge strings really make a big difference. As alot of people on different websites said, a longer scale allows you to get away w/ Lighter Gauge Strings & a Brighter sound. Since the scale length on a 7 (and more) String Guitar is often the same as a Baritone Guitar at 27 inches or a Short Scale Bass at 30 inches (some 7 String Guitars have a Scale Length that falls in between a Standard 6 String Guitar & a Baritone version), Lighter Gauge Strings certainly help. A guy on KZbin restored himself a lovely Olbrei & Co 7 String Acoustic Guitar:kzbin.info/www/bejne/nniXl4h_qsx1Z6M which is based on the Original 7 String Guitar that came all the way from Russia.

[@jasonstallworth]

Thank you for the info here! I do love how the lighter strings feel on my 7. Much better for leads.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@@jasonstallworth Man how did you not realize the longer scale length?

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@@jasonstallworth I guess you could've gotten a handy folding ruler to measure the scale length from the nut to the bridge so you'd be able to tell how long the scale length is.

[@jasonstallworth]

@@RockStarOscarStern634 It came with 10s and I just kept using those. I wish I had gone to 9s earlier!

[@jasonstallworth]

@@RockStarOscarStern634 That's one of my flaws, I guess. I don't pay much attention to spec and details.

[@joshuasanchez7270]

The difference for me is clear: Jason can play solos, and I can't. I can't even understand how solos work. So it doesn't matter the string gauge, I can't make the guitar sound like that 🤣🤣

[@jasonstallworth]

Dude, I'm working on a lead guitar course and plan to release that early 2023! This will help simplify everything.

[@mehstudio]

More definition ♥️

[@jasonstallworth]

Yeah dude, that's what I noticed and it plays so much better

[@mehstudio]

I use the 7-string Boomers from GHS, I think the tone of the strings is wonderful, but I have an 8-string, and I accidentally bought an extra light gauge and it came with more definition when I played it, then I did the same thing on the 7 strings and it also improved, and suddenly your video. Very cool!

[@Namelessforever_]

Have you ever considered getting a baritone over a 7 string Jason? That’s what I did….but I’m not crazy about my baritone haha. We’re never fully satisfied as guitarists are we!? 😉🤘

[@jasonstallworth]

I've considered a baritone and never played one. But I don't think I'd want a longer neck.

[@MrBaker444]

YEP!! I abso… LUTELY hear the difference!! Sounds more crisp, less muddy & nice and smooth! Total feeding boner!! 💪🏼🇺🇸💪🏼 been wondering if I should try the lighter gauge and make up for whatever top me I lose, on the new STLtones Amp sim I just purchased… just gained yourself a new sub. 👊🏼🇺🇸👊🏼

[@jasonstallworth]

Thank you for the sub! 🤘

[@eduardostone2725]

idk maybe its my tonedeafness but .. the simplest explanation is like .. it went from motley crue to van halens angelic shredding.

[@jasonstallworth]

Definitely some of my influences in there!