I try Flatwound strings for the first time!

I’m not sure how I feel about these strings.... I’ve listened to the playback a couple of times now and I’m hearing both advantages and disadvantages.
So I’m gonna play the heck out of them and see if I should invest in a set for my ES-335 😁
Anyway, equipment used today:
Fender Telecaster ‘52 heavy relic (2017) with Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound bridge pickup and a Bare Knuckle Stormy Monday neck
Vox AC30S1
No pedals at all
No computers, no audio interfaces, no special microphones.... all recorded straight to my iPhone, which was placed a few inches from the amp’s grill cloth.
__________________________________________
If you have any questions or want to contact me directly, then my contact details are:
EMAIL: [e-mail]
or to donate:
PAYPAL: [e-mail] (or 078900 67773)

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

These Flatwounds have a Flexible Wound G to achieve a more consistent tone. Fun fact, the Telecaster was originally designed to be strung w/ Flatwound Strings

[@lsmith869]

Yep the 52 came with flat wounds.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@@lsmith869 Yes this is that original Fender Sound. Flatwound Strings really bring those Fender Guitars back to their Original Glory.

[@allrequiredfields]

Every electric guitar regardless of make came with flats until the early-mid 60s and basses came with flats until the late-70s.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@@allrequiredfields Actually Flatwounds came as early as 1874 by Hamilton to replace the Gut strings on Bowed stringed instruments because they last many times as long, hold tune better, & the flat surface increases the contact area w/ the bow for faster responce.

[@marciamakesmusic]

​@OscarStern723 you misread their comment. They weren't saying flats were invented in the 60s, they're saying it was standard to get flats on your guitar by default until then.

[@Olibertau]

Wow. Speechless. Wonderful playing and pice of music. I find the flatwound bring stability, warmth and suit very well to this kind of music art. I love how you play, intensely focused and inspired. Thank you so much Paul.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

What a lovely comment! Thank you Oliver, much appreciated 🍻

[@guilhermebatlleyfont7577]

That intro playing was hauntingly beautiful Paul, wow. An inspiration, as always

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you so much Guilherme 🙏

[@georgealty]

Stunning. I came for the strings, but stayed for the music.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you sir, that’s appreciated 🍻👍

[@Walks-With-Pride]

The flatwound strings sound so much fuller and don't produce unwanted string noise. About two years ago I started using D'addario Chrome 11-50 Jazz Light strings on all of my guitars. I love them and will probably never go back to roundwound strings again. Before I go, just let me say that your playing is magical. Really enjoyed the Latin flavor!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you for that compliment Buffalo Lodge 🙏. Appreciated.

[@bmav007]

Man, That is some of the sweetest tele tone I have ever heard! Absolutely stellar playing 🔥

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you bmav007, appreciated 👍

[@viniciuscomacento]

Dude sorry with all due respect but you're a BEAST. What an amazing masterclass in tone and playing. Thanks a lot for that

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Ah, thank you Vinicius 🙏

[@belo1971]

I saw Clint Eastwood in a Sergio Leone film when you take your pick out of your mouth to kill us with your lovely target notes...I am touched...in my heart ! Paul , you are awesome 🎸🥰

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Really appreciated Belo, thank you so much 🙏

[@prodevus]

I am touched...on my ass 😳

[@yourefromdownsouth9728]

First off, epic playing Paul, just fantastic! I also can’t believe how good it sounds given your microphone of choice. Second, for this piece, solo as it was, the flats added warmth and richness in a subtle and organic way that I don’t think you can get from the tone nob or EQ without big compromises. They were perfect here. For general use, particularly in a band setting, the high end of the rounds will cut better, and I’d imagine they are more flexible across styles, gain settings, etc. I can’t see ever switching permanently to flats, but after this video I am certainly going to get a set and have fun figuring out what they excel at. Informative and inspiring video across the board!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Austin, delighted you liked my playing 👍. Yes, I’m liking the flats more and more..... someone said they made my guitar sound “old”..... which is an adjective I really like.

[@amandabaynham-swales9222]

The playing is outstanding. They both sound incredible. Hard to to select a preference. The flat wounds have more clarity and sparkle. 12s?! My poor fingers would be mincemeat!

[@theoverunderthinker]

you can get them in .10 as well. I know that they have them in Chromes (d'addario) so I think other brands should have them as well.

[@shapdanone]

You can even get 9s flats from Labella. They are a bit hard to find but they sound great

[@tonyboyhume3878]

those flats have a gorgeous sound - great, full of character. top piece by the way. i'm learning that immediately

[@silviopimentel7247]

Ur tone is very impressive & advanced with either strings. Best video to compare I've seen so far!!

[@RiotBike]

Are we supposed to judge it by what we hear or how satisfied you look? Great playing as usual

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

🤣, good point. Cheers for watching

[@MojoMedicineMan]

Lovely tone and playing 👍

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you! 🍻

[@Jethlin2020]

Man, you can make any face you want cause you earned every one of them with that playing. Bravo.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you Guardian Weaponry 🍻👍

[@Jethlin2020]

@Paul Stafford Cook No doubt, you're welcome. I wish I hadn't wasted so many years just noodling around. I'm finally starting to get a solid hold of the fret board and it really opens up an entire new world of options.

[@XLBiker13]

Well no one will ever be able to accuse your playing of being predictable. As always, truly beautiful. While your playing suffered no deficit from roundwounds I do think I preferred the tone of the flatwounds for what you decided to play today. They certainly didn't seem to put you at any disadvantage and you adapted seamlessly.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you XLBiker13 👍. Delighted you liked my playing. It’s funny, I’m enjoying these flatwounds more and more..... I can see me putting them on my ES-335. On a different note, I featured one of your questions on my latest Q&A video (#5). Cheers 👍

[@bobhardie6895]

Paul you are a diamond you always make me smile I always look forward to yor vids.Keep safe keep well Bob H

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Ah, thank you so much Bob 🙏

[@ushnicyuvnikof2748]

Why did it take you so long brother? I'm mad at you for not seeing the light earlier - but welcome to the flatwound brotherhood, we embrace you. Never leave us, it is the way. 🎸 🙏🏻 🎉

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Ushnic! I’m smiling at your comment 👍. Actually, my Flatwound journey continues! I’ve tried them on many of my guitars…. they seem to go brilliantly with the Telecaster. And I currently have them on my black Les Paul Custom. But I’ve been lusting after a Fender Jazzmaster for about a year…. simply because I feel the sound in my head is a Jazzmaster with gauge 13 Flatwounds, tuned down a step or two. Any thoughts on what guitars suit them best (from your experience?)

[@S-be6hp]

This video reminded me of the beauty in playing truly authentically, thank you. Just had the best noodle I've had in a long time, and I'm blissed out :) Love the flats by the way, they sound so rich. Though you are a wonderful player and would still sound great on a half-size classical strung up with feathered, tetanus inducing cheese wire. Iykyk.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you Iykyk, I appreciate that lovely comment 🍻👍

[@Mosey410]

Real talk I used to use my Moms nail clippers to trim my strings .

[@scm1716]

Mainly wanted to say: Wow, that’s some of the most interesting and mesmerizing playing I’ve heard in a long time. Great job! I love the sound of the flatwounds, and I think the guitar sounds better tuned down a bit too.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks man. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@martinrohr8462]

Amazingly soulful playing as usual. Thanks for entertaining us. You're videos are exremely enjoyable to watch. I myself have changed to flat wounds and love them. I started with 12s and am now using 10s. I also replaced the wound G with a standard 18 string. This works perfectly for me and I love the sound I get.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Martin, I appreciate your compliment 👍😁. I like your idea of substituting a normal G string. I might try that.

[@davidpepper442]

I think the piece you were playing (very moving, by the way) was really well suited to the flat wounds. They had a warm, classical tone. Cheers Paul!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks David! Yes, I’m gonna buy a set for my ES-335 😁

[@thepickerhat6996]

Absolute lovely playing. Great Upload! :)

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you, I appreciate your compliment 😁👍

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

You would wanna go to the Lightest Set (10s) for E Standard on the Telecaster w/ Flatwound Strings. Fender Guitars were originally designed for Flatwound Strings so this is that Authentic Fender sound.

[@archiekay274]

Lovely playing Paul. I would like to see this revisited with similar string gauge and tuning. The half step down and different gauge gave the impression of a more mellow tone compared to the rounds.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Yes, fair point Archie. Actually, I’m going to buy another set today for my 335.... so I’ll buy 11s, that way I can compare 11s with 11s 😁. Cheers for watching

[@Tonetwisters]

When I originally started playing (1959), flats were about all there was in my neck of the woods ... Eventually found Gibson 340 and 340 Light Sonomatics and was a very happy camper. Closest thing I have found to them are the heavier Stringjoys ...

[@wheaty64]

I have used the same TI JS flatwounds on all my guitars for close to 20 years now. Use 11s on Fenders, 12s or 13s on archtops. Love them! Also.... rarely change the strings. You will be amazed how long they last.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks wheaty64. I’m looking forward to sampling their longevity (because they’re rather pricey 🤣).

[@wheaty64]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 They sure can be. A friend of mine uses the Daddario flats which I find have a little more top end but arent as supple feeling under the fingers. That may be to do with the TI JS gauging - 12s are gauged more like a 11 set towards the lower strings.

[@pickersgrip]

Great playing Paul!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Pickersgrip 👍

[@georgesims-z4u]

Jeeez what a monster of a player

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you! Cheers 🍻

[@christophergriffin8756]

Beautifuf playing, for me as with the others the flatwound strings, gave your playing much more body and tonality, which suited the track you were playing

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Christopher 🍻

[@davidharris794]

The flatwounds do it for me! Fabulous playing too

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you David 👍

[@NintenDub]

Damn fine playing. Your beyond good

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you NintenDub! 👍

[@phillipholt6005]

I started buying Ernie Ball strings because of not only quality but they make every type string you need!!

[@Marquee_69]

I use them for years… 10 or 12 … brilliant strings from Vienna. Cool playing 🎸

[@aftertheendtimes]

Beautiful playing man! I am using Flatwound on my Jazzbox for the first time and also on my J-Bass too an it is a great experience,..Thanks dear for shareing. Love cheers from Sweden😃👍🙏

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you man, I’m delighted you liked my playing. And greetings to you in Sweden, from a rather cloudy Edinburgh Scotland 🍻

[@matthewhanson3204]

fantastic playing

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Matthew 👍

[@The2ndProtectsTheRest]

Absolutely INCREDIBLE TONE!!!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you RoughRide666! Delighted you like it 👍

[@TeleCaster66]

Excellent! Exactly why I think the Telecaster is the benchmark for solid body electrics.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you Tele Caster! 👍

[@HenryChinaski614]

Beautiful composition and playing.

[@borisburger688]

Ho MAN !! What an hight class playing !! Always a great pleasur to hear you . Cheers from Paris

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you so much Boris 🙏. And hello back to you from a (surprisingly) sunny Edinburgh! Oh no, wait a minute, that’s the rain on ☔️ 🤣

[@borisburger688]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 Thank you , sun will shine one of this days on Scotland

[@gertzpalma]

THANKS, PAUL!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

My pleasure, cheers for watching 👍

[@HMJohnsonGuitar]

Nice demo and super tasteful playing!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Sir! I just checked out one of your videos - “How to get a little jazz in your blues”. Wow! Man you can play! 👌

[@Drunken_Hamster]

The flats sound cleaner and more focused. I like them.

[@topisantakivi1512]

Found the video via searching info on flatwound strings, stayed for the amazing playing

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Ah, well thank you Topi Santakivi, delighted you liked my playing 👍. Cheers to you 🍻

[@sneakerhead6184]

I love flatwound strings on my Telecaster!! I prefer the Thomastik-Infeld strings or the Dogal Evolutions 👍👌

[@Illneverremember1]

I love them. I don't see the disadvantage. Many say not bright enough but for me, brightness is never an issue with electric guitar. More guitar players need to try them. I'll never go back.

[@PROpaganPro]

That was great, man... thank you!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Cheers, delighted you liked it 🍻

[@PhaseLockedLoop]

love the intro jam, would love a tab of that! great playing

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks man. Unfortunately I’ve no experience with Tabs…. but hopefully you can get something out of it by simply watching or slowing the KZbin play back speed. Cheers 🍻

[@Glicksman1]

I've been using flats on my guitars fora while and I like them. Yes, with flats the top frequencies are somewhat attenuated on the three low strings, but this can be compensated for with EQ, On bright guitars such as Fenders, Rickenbacker's, P-90 Gibsons, and Dynasonic pickup Gretsch's, flats are more appealing to me than rounds regarding the feel, attack, sustain, and tone. On a humbucker pickup guitar such as a Les Paul, an ES-335, or a Filtertron pickup Gretsch, rounds would be my choice. It's a matter of taste.

[@rorshakks]

New to your channel, great stuff, tasty licks. What year Tele is this and what's the neck pickup? I just bought a Tele and the guy has flatwounds on it so I'm looking forward to trying them. Joe Gore also played with Les Claypool and he used to work for Guitary Player magazine.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks rorshakks. Yes, it’s a Custom Shop heavy relic ‘52 reissue that I bought new in 2017. I knew it had more to give, so after 6 months or so I got my local guitar tech to swap the stock pups for a Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound in the bridge and a Bare Knuckle Stormy Monday in the neck. I also changed the tone pot from a stock 250k to a Bare Knuckle 550k. I just love this guitar 🙏

[@silviopimentel7247]

I ment where one can bye feel like u have! AMAZING 👏brother. Very well done 👏✔

[@grahamt33]

Beautiful individual style !

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you 👍

[@biglog6402]

Not really bothered about the strings I just love listening to your playing. I find it inspirational. I think the flat wound sound a bit like a Flamenco or Classical guitar being warmer in tone. Both sound great but I reckon it’s your playing. I think the flat wound perfectly suit this Spanish type tune. I thought the intro was great but when you played it on the flat wound I thought WOW! Almost acoustic tones. By the way I loved the tune and flat wound strings are buggers to cut through, instead of cutting they start to unravel 😖

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks for the compliment Big Log, appreciated mate 👍. And it’s good to know that I’m not the only one who found a difference to roundwound when cutting them.

[@TheAsrgrant]

No expert but I think the flat sounds richer, almost a clarinet wood tone or something. I like. Masterful Paul, as usual.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Observerse One, delighted you like the Flatwounds…. I like them so much I’ve kept them on that guitar. Cheers for watching

[@PeterDad60]

Next detune to C#/D flat a minor 3rd. down = 3 half steps down. That shall make string bending so much easier even with Flatwound 12's. Also an even deeper more mellow jazz tone too! -Peter age 71

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Peter, I think you’ve hit the nail on the head here. A few days ago I dropped it another semi tone, from E flat to D, and the “flatwound magic” seemed to increase further. So I’m guessing you’re right, in that an extra semi-tone will give me even more gorgeous results. Another reason I believe this is because I’ve just put gauge 11 flatwounds on my ES-335...... and because 11s is normal for me I haven’t dropped the pitch. But the magic is nowhere near at the same level as the downtuned Tele.

[@livergen]

Dear Mr. Paul , that was absolutely beautiful playing Sir, engaged with such emotion. And your telecaster Is gorgeous by the way, I have an old Stratocaster & fairly new telecaster that I love having only Flatwounds installed on. My acoustics have always had roundwounds because of the sound I like coming from them, something of a brassy earthtone I guess you might say, A little more character you're able to draw from the string tension and the different subtleties as you're playing. Anyway, many many years ago as a young teenager I stumbled upon flatwound strings for the first time And never looked back, I play 10s , and enjoy blues and jazz along with Neo-funk you might say, I played through a VOX modeling amplifier with some nice assorted pedals. But for me personally I love how they feel, like smooth butter or the silkiness that glides through your fingers. Every time I pick my old Stratocaster up It feels absolutely amazing with flatwound 10s strung on it, It's almost as if the guitar is playing me. Anyway, I'm glad I stumbled upon your video and channel some how, truly beautiful guitar playing Sir, mesmerizing and haunting, Love your style that's for sure.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Danny! What a lovely comment 😊. Genuinely has me smiling from ear to ear. Cheers to you

[@benwyse]

Since I started using Thomastik-Infeld Jazz Guitar Swing Flat Wounds, I never looked back. Actually, I was playing some flat wound on a Fender strato, 30 years ago. I was in a city where that's was all one could find at the local store. Later on, when I moved to the US, I couldn't find those string (since I never bother to know that they were called flat wound). I had to rediscover them on KZbin, 2 decades later. Lol

[@kaevox]

oh my golly, beautiful playing brother

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Kaevox 👍. Appreciated

[@jonasgravlund9056]

Hi Paul! Thank you for showcasing your amazing playing on this channel. If you’re still on your flatwound journey I’d suggest taking a look at Pyramid strings. They have their old school flatwound (Pyramid Gold) which I think are the best in the market. They sustain better, have a more complex tone that stay the same during their lifetime. I’d also suggest you take a look at their new flatwound, the Fusion Flats. They are designed for blues and rock guys and are brighter than normal flats. Plus the 10s and 11s in these sets come with a plain G-string so the gauges should feel familiar to you. Thanks again and happy holidays!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Jonas! Yeah, I’ve not yet tried Pyramid….. I’ll be sure to give them a whirl. At the moment I’ve got Thomastiks on my LP Custom and now I’ve got them on my Epiphone. But maybe next time I’ll try the Pyramids 😊

[@jonasgravlund9056]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 Nice! Thomastiks are also really nice. They are weird with gauges, they lower the bottom strings one gauge compared to the top. So their 12s are in reality a set of 11s with the plains of a set of 12s. Pyramids are more regular. Both are round core and pure nickel which is really nice. Different flavors, both great strings. If you try the Fusion Flats I suggest staying with them for a while, because they might feel weird at first. I’d call them half-flats (kinda like half rounds but opposite). They are flatwound with a flat wire, but the wire seems to arched or something like that. Pretty cool! Thanks again for your playing and thoughts on this channel!

[@BADBRAINSO]

you do that guitar justice brother just plainly awesome!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Ah, thank you Joseph. Cheers to you 🍻

[@ChristopherLightfoot-zu3kb]

Sounds beautiful dropped down to Eb using gauge 12 flat wounds. I thin every one should have 1 guitar in their arsenal, tuned down a semi tone. I want to put flat wounds on my ES 335 and will most likely go for 11-47 or even 12. But then i will get it set up to take the heavier gauge.

[@stevec.1802]

Flatwound’s are just a different tone colour and feel we adapt to, or not. Your playing and expression are stellar.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Steve, appreciate your compliment 👍

[@blackie5566]

Awesome playing - thank you for the comparison...

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

My pleasure Blackie 🙏

[@fivethumbsfrank]

Love this vibe, excellent. those flat wounds sound awesome in your hands, I tried them on an SA2000 yamaha I liked them but not for an everyday guitar for me.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks fivethumbsfrank 👍. Yeah, they’re great for the occasional bit of fun.

[@macbruce7562]

Flat wounds on a tele are beautiful, it rolls off some spank but keeps clarity and adds a touch of warmth. When I started playing guitar, I started with a set of 12s and moved to 13s. My fingers got tough in 6 months. I heard that SRV played with them, could of been a lie but the Internet wasn’t really a thing yet or at least wasn’t heavily used for sharing guitar knowledge. I will say though that heavier gauge strings bring back some pain and make every note feel intentional, you don’t just get them given to you. Real good playing!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Mac 👍

[@BaritoneOneFive]

Watched this video several times. Thinking about putting flats on my baritone for less string noise. Paul, you would still sound good if that tele was strung up with rusty wires. Great playing as always, love that tele!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Stuart! Delighted you like my Tele. I’m a very lucky boy. By the way, the thought of flats on your baritone sounds like absolute tone heaven. 👌

[@johnianknox1629]

Love the tones again Paul and nice use of mild reverb, I wanted to tell you about 2 guys I used to jam with from Edinburgh back 45 years ago, they were going for a pint when one of them said "You go and get them in, I'm nipping into Boots to get something ", so 5 minutes later he sits down with his mate and says if I give you the money will you go and get us a couple of whiskies, so he stands up to pull out his wallet and a whole load of condoms fall onto the floor, his mate says "What's all this then ?", his mate says "Och I was too embarrassed to ask for a Sydney Devine album". Take care buddy and cheerio from Glasgow.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

I’m literally laughing out loud! 🤣Seriously mate, I just burst out laughing . I’m 51 years old and so that joke is bang in my ballpark. Wonder what happened to old Sidney..?

[@johnianknox1629]

Thanks for your lovely reply pal, you know Paul most utubers don't take the time to actually type anything back so when I get something back from you it's always appreciated. Sadly a couple of months ago Sydney passed away, although he was a bit of a joke figure for a classic rocker like me, you had to admire his show business longevity and it give him a good life unlike us who had to have a real job to raise a family. Always look forward to your channel kid, keep up the good work and take care.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Cheers John

[@joshfeatherstone8546]

That playing is incredible. Rounds or flats, that’s how you play a guitar

[@timothydietrich5119]

Damn fine pickin, Thank you!🎸🎼

[@chuckbouscaren3898]

Nice demonstration and sweet playing Paul! I'm not sure that I could say that I liked one set over the other but the flat wounds are definitely warmer sounding. I have flat wounds on a bass guitar and I really enjoy the feel of them too.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Chuck. The more I listen to the clip the more I’m liking the flatwounds 😁

[@vittigo]

I'm on the fence as well. And it's going on for years. I'm switching back and forth D'Addario Chromes (12) and D'Addario NYXL (11) for my Ibanez AS 103. One thing to be noted - in your case difference in sound is more subtle. In my case i get much more drastic difference. But cannot say what i like more. And on top of that, your playing is as always pleasure to listen. Thank you and keep it coming.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Hubert. Yeah, maybe if I try them on my ES-335 I’ll experience a more obvious difference. Cheers for watching 👍

[@robertpopielaski8154]

Great tone great feel as always

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Robert, cheers for watching 👍

[@andrejgregoric1324]

I can relate... am using heavier gauge strings, 11s on electrics and 12s and 13s on acoustics. Tried Labelle flatwounds 12s on semihollow... Each set has it's own advantage, and i see how you explore those tiny differences in subtle tone and feel change. I catch myself sometimes in those situations, each change adds something and takes away something. But I found most joy with D'Addario blues 11s.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Yes, I’m going to try a set on my 335..... I’m liking them more and more. Cheers for watching Andrej

[@mobius8002]

E flat will alter the tone so pointless comparing really but you can tell there is a sweeter more mellow tone. I use flats on es 125. And rounds on gretsch but I'm considering flats on my tele. At 62 I'm struggling with arthritis after being pro player for over 45 years. I found some 10 to 48 flats which suit .your tone and style are right up my street lol love it.

[@gwbuilder5779]

You definitely enjoy playing that guitar. The two primary differences round vs flat are the crisp edge of the note and the snap that drives the sound with the round vs the muddy waters feel and the deeper tones with the flat. I use to play flat wound nickel strings on my 71 Fender Jazz Percision bass (yes an original jp bass). You can use the eq and lighter string to get some of the brightness back, but the flats are just a different kind of string. The wound portion of the string is wider and that broader contact with the core string gives that warmer tone. I originally bought the flats to reduce finger slide noise because the louder you play, the more amplified those noises become. I've always loved the smooth feel of the strings, but some people like the bite of the rounds because they feel like they have more precise control of their slides that way. I'm surprised you got 12s, especially if you usually play 10s or 11s. The heavier strings will be in the deeper warmer range for sure. Run em hard and see what you think. The worst thing to happen would be that you stay with the rounds. I like that you are willing to give the flats a try, you never know unless you try. Right? Nice chops man. Don't forget to tell the Mrs Happy Mother's Day! 👍🤙👌🎶🎵

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks GW! Yes, I’m really enjoying the flats more and more. I’ve had a few comments coming in telling me they make my guitar sound “old” and “classic”.... I’m liking those adjectives.... they kinda fit with my idealism for guitar. 😁

[@gwbuilder5779]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 Awesome! I would love to put flats on my acoustic, but they are just too heavy. Lol

[@That52TeleGuy]

I put 11 gage set of flat wounds on my 52 Hot Rod Tele that has the Duncan mini HB in the neck. I love the result except needed to tune to Eb for tension but that also helped to get tone I was after. Next would try 10’s to reduce tension a bit. Normally use a jazz/rock gage of rounds. Have multiple Tele’s so it is great for this guitar but not every one. Tough to bend. I think the unwound high E and B are no different in the flat sets vs. round sets? G is wound.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks William. Actually I think you inadvertently hit the nail on the head there. In that, to me, it’s the COMBINATION of down tuning and Flatwounds that reveal the magic. I say this because I’ve since dropped another semi tone (for excess tension reasons) on that Tele.... and it sounds even lovelier! I have also now added Flatwounds to my ES335, but I went for 11s and therefore haven’t needed to down tune. But alas, the magic is not there.... nice, but not a particularly noticeable difference. Hmmm.....

[@mikec6733]

Personally I like the flatwound, although I haven't actually tried them yet, because I think I'm slightly autistic or something, and I find their stoic sound, without the extra incidental sound, very reassuring.

[@gangnamstylegrandpa6352]

Hi Paul ! Greetings from Akron , Ohio USA ! I thought I might give you my take on flatwound strings . I use .011-.049 D' Addario nickel wound steel Jazz and Blues . But when I was 15 ,I was trying to learn all my barre chords and having a hard time .Somehow I heard about flatwounds . Easy on the fingers , reduced string noise . They helped me get my guitar education together . However , they always sound a little dead to me , and lack the sparkle of nickel wound steel . By the time I turned 16 years old I was buying nickel strings again , and using barre chords to the point where I rarely play open chords on electric .

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Gangnam Style, it’s good to get the experiences of players into these comments. On a related note, I’ve dropped the tuning once again on the Tele, now to D standard. And the magic increases. So I’m coming to realise that, for me, it’s the COMBINATION of down-tuning and Flatwounds that gives me that sound I like. I feel this way because I’ve just added a lighter gauge of flats to my 335 (kept at standard tuning).... and I’m not feeling any particular magic. In fact, I strongly suspect that I’ll end up with 1 fender style guitar in my collection that I always keep with heavy gauge flats and always down-tuned to D or maybe even C. It’s a journey 🤣

[@gangnamstylegrandpa6352]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 , I always tune my electrics to Eb , and my acoustics tuned to 440 standard . Except for 12 strings which I always tune to Eb . And so the journey continues ! Cheers to all the good people in Scotland , and keep up the Great videos !

[@sonicobsessions947]

That playing makes me want to start learning guitar again and go with this path this time around hahaha.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you sonic Obsessions, delighted you liked my playing 👍

[@michaelsteven1090]

The flatwounds sound like a very good semi-hollow body.. beautiful

[@Skybluetoo]

Stunning playing.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you so much Marc, I really enjoyed this one 😁

[@Sammywhat]

No string squeak on those flat wounds. There's something to be said for that. The tone was great. Wonder how they'll sound in 4 months... probably not much different really. 😁👍 Great playing as always, Paul!!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Sammywhat 👍. I’m really enjoying them.... in fact I’m gonna buy a set now for my ES-335

[@wololeg]

i really enjoyed your playing on the flatwounds

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Oleg 👍. I’m really enjoying them.

[@zaldum386]

oh you should have done the comparison with both in the same tunning! I was so curious about the difference, but going e flat completely changes everything, tension, highs, lows... anyway I enjoyed your playing as always and will be trying the 12s

[@WayneMemphisMojo]

I'm a bit late committing on this video but I appreciate you posting it as I am considering flatwound strings for an Esquire guitar.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks for watching Wayne. Yes, since this video I’ve become quite the fan of Flatwounds. At any given time I’ve always got one of guitars wearing flats. At the moment it’s my black Les Paul. But overall, I think the Tele suits them best.

[@mjt5576]

I think the flatwounds sound fantastic!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks mjt 👍

[@DanDoroshDetroitMusic]

That bridge pup sounds amazing! What is it? Exactly what I'm looking for. My bridge pickup is shrill and weak.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Dan. It’s a Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound (Tele). I genuinely love that pickup, it completely transformed the guitar. Here’s my video on the comparison between stock and SDQP kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZyyiZmmmrCVodU

[@DanDoroshDetroitMusic]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 thanks for the info and link! Funny thing is I avoided researching that one thinking it may be too much after reading their description. Turns out it's exactly what I want!

[@MisterDaveB]

Nice and interesting video Paul. Keep up the good work, enjoying your videos. I put flatwounds in my Squire Jazzmaster and liked them - they last forever. I am now using half wounds in it. Very similar - sort of half way in tone between round and flat which is what you would expect I guess. Very little string noise. I have DR blues in my Tele and I love them for that guitar but I was thinking of trying halfwounds in the Tele as an experiment.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Fancy that, I’d never even heard of half wounds before...... I’ll do a little research now, because I’m intrigued. Cheers for watching 👍

[@CAGED1702]

GHS has a set called Nickel Rockers, they are rollerwound (roundwounds slightly flattened). Best of both worlds (for me!). They come with a plain or a wound 3rd. Btw: players who used them are Stevie Ray Vaughn and Eric Johnson, amongst others.

[@MiklosKov]

Flatwounds on a tele are great. I like your playing.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks MiklosKov, I’m delighted you like my playing 🍻

[@norbertantoszewsky7996]

YOU are an Great Player! 👍👍👍

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you Norbert! Cheers 🍻

[@REM1956]

I believe the top two strings of flat wounds are plain anyway, just like the round wounds. I first tried flat wounds on a Strat, I hadn't been playing long. So I switched strings and started tuning them up. They never quite got up to pitch, no matter what. I was so intent on tuning them, I suddenly glanced back, and my trem bridge was pulled up about 2" off the guitar body! Just a little bit more and I'd have snapped the bridge clean off the guitar. Luckily I didn't trash my guitar or got hurt by a fast flying Stratocaster bridge. You make the guitar sound great, no matter the strings.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks REM1956. Interesting.... yeah, since making the video, I’ve dropped the pitch another semi tone for that very reason.... so now I’m down a whole tone in attempt to take the stress out of the neck 😁

[@ewal8556]

I have flat wounds 10s on my LP copy. It sounds really nice, warm and smooth. I have a set for my Hollow body but not put them on yet, and look onward to it.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks E Wal. I’d imagine the flatwounds will sound good on your hollow body. Fingers crossed 🤞

[@MezzMcGillicuddy1]

Sounds great! For the tune you're playing, I think the flatwounds tuned down a half step sounds much better! It's a richer, fuller sound.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks MezzMcGillicuddy1👍. Yeah, I like the sound so much I ended up keeping the flats on that particular guitar. Sounds so woody and lovely. Cheers for watching

[@ue4058]

Exquisite playing.

[@jaycollins9244]

FLATWOUNDS ALL THE WAY! LOVE YOUR PLAYING, BUD! I HAVE JUST PUT 11'S TO 50 FLATS BACK ON MY STRAT. DON'T KNOW WHY I GO AWAY FROM THEM SOMETIMES. I WILL DO A VIDEO WITH THEM SHORTLY.

[@grady9752]

One of my favorite instruments is my Epiphone 175 Joe Pass model. It's a beautiful jazz box that really inspires a certain approach to playing. While I more than respect cats like Brian Setzer for rocking out on big hollow bodies, I personally just get a unique feeling when I pick that ax up that makes me channel Wes, George Benson or Herb Ellis. The guitar came with standard strings on it, but I took them off as soon as I got it home and put flatwounds on it. Took some time to get the intonation right on the floating bridge, but I would never change back on this guitar. Are they for everyone or every instrument? Of course not, but there are very definitely, times when they seem to stimulate your hands and your brain to go off in directions that you normally don't when you are banging away on your LP or Strat or Tele. Every player should have a guitar on a stand with flatwound strings and pick it up once in a while. Hey, for a couple hundred bucks, you can grab a knock off and just have it for jazz noodling! You may surprise yourself.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Grady, I agree. I’m fact, I’d quite like to buy a Jazzmaster for that very reason and leave it permanently flatwound.

[@astewart9410]

That was gorgeous playing, sir! I like both sounds so, while this sounds like a cop-out, I'd say go with what feels best for you. At least now you'll know what to expect either way. Cheers!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you astewart👍. The more I listen back to the clip, the more I’m intrigued by the flatwounds 😁

[@astewart9410]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 I've never tried them myself, so I appreciate you sharing your experiment! I surely don't have nice guitars like yours (still on a Squier Classic Vibe 50s Tele, and nothing wrong with that), but I liked both tones... the flat wounds sounded richer somehow through my headphones over KZbin... probably different in the room... intriguing indeed!

[@gregmock6808]

I love flatwounds on my archtop because they give me a true violin feel sliding up and down the neck without the friction of round wounds...they also don't chew up frets if you are a player that pinches or hammers on strings much.....they don't have the sustain nor do they bend the same...they do have a very smooth lateral feel that's noiseless...less string squeak. I don't think they like Les Pauls much but strats work with them....I have them on an Ibanez Custom 125 archtop hollowbody. and would never change them....that guitar has a wooden bridge as well...I think Tom Bukovac uses them on his Senn strat and quite a few of his guitars but he said they don't work on Les Pauls...

[@iannicholls7476]

Well, who knew? The flat wounds sound great for that style you were playing there. I’ll keep roundwounds on my Telecaster for now. I’m like you and mine is not due for new strings for several months yet!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

I’m laughing reading your comment.... I thought I was the only person who doesn’t change strings for months 🤣