I Tried Classical Guitar Strings on My Baritone Ukulele SO YOU DON'T HAVE TOO!

[@Panurg81]

just as a side not and please note it should not come off as "mr. know-it-all": lemon oil is actually more of a cleaner than a finishing oil. it's main ingredient 'limonene' is rather volatile and will evaporate quite quickly. so for cleaning it is good, but for re"hydrating" I would recommend an actual oil. also, when using an actual oil, I wouldn't really recommend letting it soak in for a long time as it reduces the hardness of the fretboard. thanks for all your great content, love to see the uke channel thrive :)

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

I put Classical Guitar strings on my Ukulele & it worked

[@prodabu7884]

Which classical guitar string should I put for low g on a concert ukulele

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@@prodabu7884 The D String. Magma Microflatwound Bariuke Strings would theoretically double as Low G Concert sets as long as they don't break. So be careful.

[@johnstephen7610]

As others have posted here, you would likely have a better outcome by using the A, D, G and B strings from the classical guitar set, and tuned them up to D, G, B and E on the baritone uke. I have done this with good results. I used Savarez classical guitar strings.

[@taegikimin5994]

hey. could you please elaborate on it as I'm planning to change my strings and bari strings are pretty expensive here

[@johnstephen7610]

@@taegikimin5994 If you buy a set of classical guitar strings -- I used Savarez, as I mentioned -- take the A string from the set of classical guitar strings, and use it for the D string on your bari uke. Tune it up to D, just like you would with a bari string. Then take the D string from the classical guitar set, and use it for the G string on your uke, tuning it up to G. After that, take the G string from the classical guitar set and use it for the B string on your uke, tuning it up to B. Finally take the B string from the classical guitar set and use it for the E string on your uke, tuning it up to E. Online, you can get a set of classical guitar strings for anywhere from $6.99 on up to $20 plus.

[@Graham-tm2jx]

I use classic guitar strings to tune gdae as octave mandolin, depending on scale length of uke and tension i like I tune strings up to or down from stated note..

[@Graham-tm2jx]

and if I wish for more balanced tensions I use silver wound lute strings, which are available in all string gau ges, apart from the top E, which I use a savarez twisted guitar string.

[@georgefrench1907]

It seems unfair to criticize the guitar strings for going out of tune. In my experience, at least, it takes at least a week for nylon strings to settle in fully. Also, proper intonation is mainly a function of proper nut-to-saddle distance, relative to the 12th fret, not the makeup of the strings. That said, thanks for posting this informative, provocative video.👍

[@nigeldavey1043]

It occurs to me the minimal amount of detriment in intonation could possibly be rectified with a compensated saddle. You'd probably have to do it yourself as were only talking about a single course. Personally I couldn't be arsed ,I'd just put Worth Browns on it . Fluorocarbons are much less temperamental and would not be wrong spec for the scale length. I've been there with low G on a Concert scale and it just sounded wrong whatever i tried so I bought a Tenor scale Concert body uke. The tone I desired ( from the body dimensions) and the correct intonation and playability from the longer scale. After all it's why you can't tune a sopranino to standard tuning. The scale length just doesn't allow for it.

[@Retro6502]

The main problem here is string gauge. These strings were chosen because they would have a certain tension when tuned to pitch on a 25-26 inch scale length. Putting them on a 19-20 inch scale instrument, they'll be at a lower tension when tuned up to the same pitch. This makes them less pitch stable and why there's so much trouble with tuning stability and intonation. It'll also take them longer to stretch out because they're not under as much tension. The shorter scale needs thicker strings to have the right amount of tension when tuned. That's also why the G string on a baritone ukulele is usually a wound string, where it's a plain string on a guitar.

[@ellenrik]

Stings are designed to give a certain pitch under a set tension over a set distance, so it makes sense that you would have intonation problems. I would never put guitar strings on my mandolin. A really helpful video, thanks.

[@mikeregan3265]

Use your pro artes but skip both E strings and install what's left so you have wound strings for D and G.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

Actually for Baritone Ukuleles you need to use the middle 4 strings from the Classical Guitar set set (some Classical Guitar string sets have a Wound G so that would produce an interesting Wound B string) to get a solid sound

[@ChadDippyDora]

I dont haves baritone. I enjoyed your playing!

[@josephukedaddy0548]

You are so great!! As always! Try tuning B-e-b-e then rock out- watch James hill Bebe tuning. Watch til the end. Last couple minutes is amazing!!!

[@JHTenor]

I use classical guitar strings to tune my Tenor to baritone.. I use TI flatwound classic series and it works amazingly well.

[@tangobayus]

A classical guitar D string makes a good Low G. Use the top 3 from a Uke set for 5ths tuning. Tune it in 4ths starting at E at the bottom (down from low G). EADG. Gives you more room than standard tuning without the constant position changes of 5ths tuning.

[@angelacherrington208]

Classical guitar strings are fine if you choose correct gauge.

[@StevenDoyleLuke]

I have the exact same Kala Ziricote Baritone that you are demonstrating. Currently, I have it strung with an Augustine Single Gold D Classical guitar string combined with UkeLogic Hard Tension/Clear G, B and E. Changed the tuners to closed gear gold Ortega's (best ever). For Aquila, I like the Sugar strings. Hannabach makes a really nice Baritone set, as well as Galli UX780, Magma Black Nylon, Ko'olau Aho, Kanila'e 'Exclusive' Baritone, and Dogal D119B. For Classical guitar Strings, I like TI Classical N Superlona Guitar String Set and a combo of Savarez Blue classical Strings for the B+E with TI Chrome Steel Flat CF30, CF27 for the D+G.

[@timakey4678]

I put a set of Worth CB63 Fluotocarbon Strings on my Mitchell MUB-70S/N Baritone and am completely satisfied with the sound and the feel. Though it must be admitted that my ears are nowhere near as discerning as yours. I also like that the “D” is not wound. I really don’t like the squeak that seems so common with wound strings. My low “g” tenor string is wound and I hope to find a not-wound replacement for the next change.

[@jsdixon6960]

I have trouble with the wound strings too, can't stand the squeak or feel. (even Oasis "super smooth" wound was ugh) Pepe Romero has sop/concert size low g wound that is so smooth and doesn't bother me, so relieved because I love the low g. Maybe they have a tenor size low g

[@jsdixon6960]

Concert size is the best for me though I can get by with tenor as long as I don't have to make Fm! It was a gift from hubby, hate to get rid of it, LOVE baritone deep sound so decided to try making it a "tenor " baritone to play around with, though now two strings are wound D G...maybe I will get used to them but fun to play with

[@jimbagsh9569]

I use D'Addario Pro-Arte Classical Guitar Strings - EJ46 on my baritone and it's tuned like an octave mandolin. Sounds great to me but I'm just a beginner. :)

[@margaretshepherd9983]

One of the most knowledgeable people on ukulele strings in the ukulele world is Alex of Southern Ukulele Store in the UK give him a ring and have a talk with him Marco you won't regret it .

[@DB-fd6ho]

I would suggest using Living Water 100% clear fluocarbon low D Strings. Edited info. I have a Pono UL4-1 braced for steel strings that I have used these strings on for several years.

[@grahamfrazer8936]

Yes the g string didn't sound right on my baritone either so i put a tenor c string on it and tuned it to g . It sounds great now ( talking about classicl guitar strings). Cheers Marco

[@genesmith555]

I appreciate this. I have two bari ukes to restrings and was considering trying guitars strings...

[@MarcoCirilloUkulele]

I am happy I could help :)

[@kunaikai]

I have my concert uke tuned to C2 F2 A#3 D#2. I used the low eadg of a classical guitar set.

[@stevenmay2863]

I have a solid spruce top baritone that I felt just did not project as it should. I tried a couple strings (different makes, etc.) over several months but was not happy. I tried Aquila Sugar 156U Baritone strings and that made a huge positive difference. I know sound is personal, but I am satisfied with these strings.

[@williamstewart5244]

I have the same uke and like Martin strings. Good balance of warmth and distinct notes. I am going to try d'addario titanium too. (Next set)

[@diatonicdelirium1743]

Question: tissues are made of paper (partly wood pulp), which is abrasive, so rubbing on the oil with has a slight sanding effect. Do you do this intentionally? The safer alternative would be to use some old piece of microfiber cloth. Cotton may also be a little abrasive, I'd be careful with that too. Then again, I may be overthinking this ;)

[@joyofanimation]

Please tell us what strings for the baritone you finally choose. I just got the same baritone for Christmas and the 3rd string it came with already does not sound right. Love your videos!

[@paulapaul525]

Living Water strings sound beautiful to me. I use them on several of my ukes, including my Baritone.

[@DB-fd6ho]

My suggestion as well. I have used them for several years now.

[@addran1210]

To me it really depends on the instrument itself. Fluorocarbon strings sound most of the time better on lower quality intruments. But I like the fact a ukulele sounds more like a classical guitar than a uke. For smaller instruments I prefer aquila strings to fluorocarbon. I also tried red strings but they make a squishy noise while playing on a tenor.

[@DennisHicks78749]

So interesting how subjective these things are. I used to put Aquilas on everything, but as I began to use higher quality solid wood ukes, I changed. When I discovered clear fluorocarbons I liked thrir sound much better on nicer ukes. Now I would only use Aquilas on starter grade laminates, and mostly use fluorocarbons on my nicer ukes.

[@nicholasshore430]

You need to use EHT strings like the EJ44C from Daddario. I use an octave tuning (1 octave down GCEA) even with low G and it rocks. It doesn't sound like a Uke of course, it's something completely different.

[@erichtht]

I've put the Martin Baritone 22 fluorocarbon strings on my cheap baritone uke and I can't believe how good it makes it sound! The package says the strings are fluorocarbon and the D and G strings are wound (copper and aluminium) so you'll get the scratchy sound if you don't lift your fingers, but it's worth it. Unbelievable sustain and volume. The first couple of times I was playing them I kept thinking they were steel strings. I would highly recommend them.

[@DB-fd6ho]

I tried this set and was disappointed that the D/G strings were wound. I suggest Living Water Fluocarbon bari strings.

[@rosco1pug]

Thanks for your presentation. Interesting to know what objective differences there are between the ukulele and guitar strings (from the same manufacturer), if any. That would help to better understand the performance differences you describe.

[@wtpwtp]

I would love to see GCEA (high G) strings on the ziricote baritone ukulele. Thank you!

[@dh2602]

Am so glad I found you. I'm in this for the long haul. Thank you Marco.

[@Ezio214]

My favorite is the worth strings. Low G, on my Tenor Uke

[@stevefranklin9176]

I use Aquila on my Baritone and are a fine medium priced well established product. I’m only using a Mahalo but enjoyable.

[@ro66e]

I was considering putting classical guitar strings on my baritone when I came across your video. I would use the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th (B,G,D,A) strings to compensate for the shorter scale length. And then use the regular baritone tuning of course. After all the scale length of the baritone roughly equals the scale length of a guitar with a capo on the fifth fret. This way the string tension will be the same as on the guitar. Then the two high strings are plain and the two low strings are wound just like on a baritone set. What are your thoughts on this ?

[@canavarro]

That's exactly what i do on my baritone. High tension classical guitar strings 2nd to 5th but tuned like a normal baritone. Sounds and feels great.

[@DennisHicks78749]

Interesting. Comparing D’Addario Bari sets of similar composition with the guitar sets and based on string gauge, I would guess that the A, D, B, & E strings, omitting the E and G, would pair the best. But though I use some guitar strings, I only buy singles to I can try to find the best match for each string position.

[@stoneyrunva]

I noticed you did not subtract the two E strings but used the top 4 from a classical set. I use the 4 middle strings of a classical set. Also, the filing of the nut was more likely the problem with your string sounding poorly than the scale length. I love the sound and encourage others to experiment with different strings and tuning to find something they fit with.

[@stevefranklin9176]

Hi Marco can you teach us Cavatina if you have the time. baritone please

[@harryrobinson18]

I use the D’Addario string set and really like them

[@silliaek]

My Flight Diana tenor came with brown worth strings, which play so sweet. So I tried Brown Worths on my baritone, and they're not working out. They feel a bit flubby and don't hold tuning. My D string (tuned DGBE) is acting up similarly to what you were experience with your G. I would love to find the perfect strings to emulate a classical guitar sound/feel on my baritones. Keep trying for us!

[@rkroshanprince]

try flamenco guitar strings on baritone ukulele

[@debankurmajumder4646]

Hi! I also have a Kala Ziricote and am planning to change the strings. However, I am a little confused between EJ88B (Nyltech) and AQ 21U (Nylgut). Don't know which one would sound fuller and warmer! Shall await your next video on EJ88B.

[@Schliitzz]

Sir, what is the song called you play at 3:40? :) it sounds angelic

[@officeinfo8431]

I just put Ej88Bs on my Baritone Uke, Hate the way the B string sounds and feels. It also feels like the gauge is not right. But I am a beginner, so take that for what its worth.

[@johngorman9292]

Are you supposed to put on lemon oil every time you change? I've never even heard of it before today

[@jadenhazelman319]

I wonder if you can use the g string of a classical guitar string set as a low g on a tenor ukulele

[@brendongreenhouse-zq4pl]

D'addario ej53b sweet strings

[@AndyBates451]

The comments show this is a can of worms, but to be fair the title of the video is misleading. I was initially mislead because you didn't state what tuning you were using from the outset. Some of the more knowledgeable comments indicate this setup wasn't going to work for you. I use D'Addario Pro-Arté EJ46 Hard Tension Classical Guitar Strings, the high E, B, D and A strings to tune a Britone (19.5 inch scale length) to EADG. Ie tuned in 5ths. I did read this might not work well on all baritones but on mine tone and intonation are fine. I also play a concert uku tuned in 5ths using the Aquila strings sets. Being a mandolin player, my brain just works in 5ths, but the uke's really allow me to use other techniques / sounds. Great for Irish harp tunes (all those O'Carolan tunes) but also 17th century Scottish lute tunes. For some inspiration check out videos by Rob McKillop.

[@paulstrauch8109]

It's normal that nylon strings (the type of strings used for ukulele and classical guitar) go out of tune when they are new

[@kirolos9058]

Nice man

[@hovistocose...5075]

Sorry tu bother, I want to buy an ukulele and i was just wondering: can't you resolve the issue mounting string for a 1/2 or a 3/4 guitar??? isn't this doable?

[@anitajohannadrost]

🥰👍😁🍀Thank you. Interesting

[@bakmenlangmusic]

Sir I want o cover your Fingerstyl,how much i need to pay for

[@patruelbrick407]

On my Harmony baritone Uke (vintage one, built in the late 40's) i use Aquila Red series. I appreciate the sound of the wounded strings but i'm still not really satisfied with the B and E strings. It's like it may need a bit more tension to sound perfect to my ears. I tried a lot of strings, like the Worth brown you're talknig at the end of the video and i really hate them ^^ Really too soft to me. I also tried some Martin ones but i always come back to Aquila strings and i tried a lot of their strings for my baritone. But for now, Red Series sounds the best to me. I'd like to know what kind of strings you usually use on your baritone uke by the way. It sounds very good but as you often put some reverb on your recordings, it's hard to "feel" the tension of the B ad E strings. Cheers from France.

[@Aryannraghuvanshi]

What's the string name ...?

[@bobjenkins3rd]

Probably better off using 2 wound and 2 unwound from the guitar set.

[@DennisHicks78749]

I am not surpised at your poor results. I use classical guitar strings for certain strings on certain of my ukes, an I know of many others who do as well. But I have never heard of someone just taking a set of guitar strings and using them this way. Everyone I know of, and I, pick specific single classical guitar strings to use for certain specific placement on my ukulele. It takes trial and error and word of mouth, and it is important to consider the materials in the string, and the gauge. So I looked at the D’Addario Pro-Arte EJ65B that use nylon and silver plated copper wound for the materials. I didn’t try very hard to find the exact same materials as used in the EJ45 set, but I think it is a valid illustration of my point. So below for each position on the ukulele I have first the EJ65B Bari string gauge vs the gauge of the EJ45 set. I think this shows exactly why your experiment failed. In fact, I think you probably knew it would, and that for guitar strings to work they would need to be matched as individual strings and not pulled from a set as you did. D: .035 wound vs .029 wound, G: .030 wound vs .040 monofilament B: .034 mono vs .032 mono E: .028 mono vs .028 Based on my trial and error experience, I would think the B and E strings might work, but that the D wouldn’t come close to a working tension, and the G, well, who knows? But this video will influence me not one bit to stop using classical guitar strings, and if you are willing to do your homework, it needn’t deter you either. But there probably no easy set for set swap as done in the video.

[@Graham-tm2jx]

pyramid silver wound lute strings...much better.

[@lunalovegoodwitch]

Interesting video but those strings probably aren't very good for the ukulele even if they fit and strum sound well

[@raghuveerpawar7828]

नंबर लागेल न लागेल पण तुम्ही दिलासा दिला l

[@cecicestmoi]

a video no one needed lol

[@NIGHTSPECTRE.]

"Baritone ukulele"😆

[@DennisHicks78749]

“Hiding under a rock” :- )

[@foljs5858]

This is seriously misleading. You should match the nylon strings with appropriate gauges for the barritone ukelele scale, not just put them on like you would on a classical guitar. I mean, if you take the time to do a video, you could have taken a few hours to research which classical guitar strings are appropriate for your barritone first... The combination of gauge and resulting tension matters, not for what instrument the strings are sold for...

[@valbastiancontraio2795]

You should have used the second third.fourth and fifth .starting.from.the b string

[@DennisHicks78749]

It would have worked better. Also, he could have chosen individual strings rather than a set for the best match for each string position. This was not a serious experiment.