The Guide To String Gauges!

[@jackbard2623]

now i understand why some people own many guitars

[@TheBsavage]

It's one reason. Change the tuning changes the neck tension changes, intonation necessarily changes. It's a total hassle to try to tune your "main" guitar to a different tuning on the fly (although Floyd Rose offers a drop-D gizmo), and so I have drop-D tuning on a different guitar entirely, a dedicated "drop-D guitar." Thus I can tune it, set it up, and then when playing a song with drop-D tuning I grab that guitar. That's for normal 6-string guitars. Getting into the 7 & 8-string complicates things more.

[@samusranzer]

I have 5 guitars and play in 4 different tunings...By the way, there is no such thing as too many guitars xD

[@cameronpeterson6734]

Yeah, I have multiple guitars depending on what genre and style I want to play.

[@St0n3r_St3v3]

Jack Bard i only own one, and it’s a vendetta dean 6 string not the best shape

[@abrahamrodrigues1049]

Me too ma

[@holdenwalters5670]

What about DROP OUT OF SCHOOL Tuning?

[@pandawithanorange]

I think that's just an alternate name for drop D

[@CaptainKirk007]

Nirvana fans 10-46 or 9-42 will work fine.

[@GohnAce]

5 years later and I’m still using this video for guidance. Thank you Ryan. ❤️

[@SArthur221]

i once used a 12-56 on a 25.5 scale in standard tuning. Nothing broke, but it felt like i was pressing down on fence wire

[@elijahbrian669]

I did that on my baritone... something broke.

[@Julian66666666666666]

I use 10-65 on standard

[@jeanrunkle1059]

I prefer a 6 string bass string set, G standard man!

[@briang2907]

I have used huge strings for years with no problems after a proper setup. 72-13 in C standard. Never had anything break.

[@brianearl877]

i use a 9-54 in 7 string B standard... a 56 in E? that's gross... it's like me using an 80 for A standard... but to each is own... no disrespect

[@MobileDecay]

String gauges are as follows 1. Djent 2. Djentier 3. Xtra Djentier 4. Xtra Djentier plus 5. Xtra Xtra Djentier plus

[@e.l.i.o6846]

You forgot the brown note signature set

[@jacobmarcelino3584]

6. XXXTRA Djentest MAX

[@triledink]

It should go like Djent, Djentier, Extra djent then just pure gorenoise tuning.

[@ryzyooritzz]

My friend played 9s then he said he was gonna need some thicker strings to play Bb on his les paul. He bought 10-48.😂

[@phantomtearsca]

That's... way too little for Drop A#/Bb on an LP.

[@raydog_97]

Yeah your friend needs thicker strings 😂🤘

[@RoachDoggJr2112]

I play 11-48/52 in C standard on a Les Paul, and 12-60 for B Standard. Some people just like their strings loose, man.

[@RoachDoggJr2112]

@@stevestevestevesteve6466 Oh, I use a pretty effective string winding technique. Basically, when I insert the string through the post, I turn it a little, and when I'm about 1/4 around the peg, I bend the string 90 degrees the opposite way I'm winding the peg. It's hard to describe over text, but that Rob Chapman guy, as much as I intensely dislike him, has a good explanation of it on one of his older videos. To put it in perspective how effective this technique is, my SG is tuned to C# Standard..... with NINES! Because Iommi is life lol. It states in tune very well, and I only really tune it once a day, and even then I don't do much tuning- Usually, it's still in tune! Also, I love your Crack the Sky profile pic. That was the first Mastodon record I heard waaaayyyy back in like 2013! My brother turned me on to them, and I went and saw them with The Russian Circles, Devin Townsend, The Eagles of Death Metal, Gojira, and Opeth back in 2017. It was sick! Although Brent had a little hissy fit about one of his monitors lol.

[@kinniecas9004]

ur friend needs mammoth slinky

[@MarcusFleck]

10-52 standard for me, I just like that extra tension when tremolo picking

[@retrorewind6042]

Marcus Fleck i agree with you on that. But i play alot of metallica and it gives me bad cramps playing on the lower strings

[@MarcusFleck]

YellowCharizar d yeah that happens. I think it differs for each person, for me doing bigger movements with my right hand takes all my stamina away

[@retrorewind6042]

same here. i downpick everything so i get tired real fast but im getting better at it

[@MarcusFleck]

YellowCharizar d wow, fullon hetfield mode. Everytime i play songs like motorbreath i get real tired, but iced earth songs have a special way to drain out every little drop off stamina out of my picking arm

[@retrorewind6042]

Marcus Fleck i used to play with a 56 on the low E and over time i just built up stamina but i dont recommend doing that cause at first its gonna hurt like hell and there were days when the pain kept me from playing.

[@obundoben82]

I use 12-56, in E standard. Because I can.

[@CannibalSoggoth]

I use that in my Les Paul, the tone is quite magnificent!

[@LifeEnjoyer463]

You wuss, I use bass strings in standard tuning on my telecaster

[@brianaceabella7720]

Did you adjust your truss rod/neck relief?

[@tvalla]

@@CannibalSoggoth in 24.75 it fell softly

[@iagopedroni2451]

I use 0.9 to tune to drop F

[@treyxaviermusic]

I want to make a sample library of your BWOOW sound so I can play it with a keyboard

[@serafim7779]

D'Addario's 11-52 are amazing for down-tuning. Always used ernieballs 10-46 but decided to give 11-52's a try when shopping for new strings a week ago and they feel really good. If you mostly play in Drop C#, Drop C, Standard C and Drop D I recommend them, pretty versatile

[@atthispointband485]

Wow I’ve been doing it all wrong, I was using 11s for drop B on my Ibanez RG350MZ (25.5” scale). I’ve been trying to figure out what gauge to use to improve the playability, this video helped me out a ton...thank you so much!!

[@rljeric]

didn't talk about drop Q Fluff, I am disappoint

[@drpibisback7680]

Why do they even make those?

[@sirdougieaudio]

NoEsUnKZbinr Why not (':

[@calebengland77]

Use 548-162 on that tuning.

[@Flux799]

RelativelyLargeJohn toilet paper will do the trick, little cocaine too.

[@ehs03y3ol]

feels slappy to much tension

[@xxbrkdwnxx]

I play in D standard and D'addario makes a set that is just perfect for it (both scale lengths) at 11-56. ugh. so good.

[@bdwitt66]

Good old red pack. 10-52 is the most versatile gauge. On the same guitar, it can do E standard down to C standard before totally flubbing out. Also drop B on 24.75" scale is workable, where only the lowest string is detuned not all 6 (Zakk Wylde or Tool style). Just don't play as hard.

[@lucam.5236]

bdwitt66 You're totally right. Sometimes I also tune down to Drop B with this set, but i won't go any lower

[@NeilDjents]

bdwitt66 if only the lowest string is dropped, how the heck can i play?!?!?

[@phantomtearsca]

@@NeilDjents It's like playing in B Standard tuning but without the low E. It's basically playing low octaves.

[@whytewavestudios3039]

Hey what guitar strings should i use to play zakk wylde songs such as lost prayer

[@heyimjoshnicetomeetya]

I can get to Drop B on 10-52 with a 25.5 scale guitar

[@SteelSkin667]

Oh wow. I ended up using completely different gauges. But again, string gauges are kind of a personal thing. I'm a big fan of the balanced tension sets from D'Addario : 10-46 in E or Eb, 11-50 in Eb or D.

[@testingthings81]

If it feels goodt,rock on! :D

[@erikscott1554]

I recently tried the Daddario 10 gauge balanced NYXL on my Ibanez RT650 and love them. Changing all my Ibanezes over to NYXL balanced sets.

[@brandoncurtin1947]

I am pretty sure he has his graphic flipped on a few settings. Typically, the Gibson should be heavier gauge than the Fender on all variations.

[@noisytim]

"I like 'em a little flabby." - Ryan 'Fluff' Bruce, 2016

[@alvaromurosotelo]

5:52 "It's a little loose for me"

[@noisytim]

Giggety !

[@tristangorman]

What about Drop A on an acoustic guitar? Genuinely serious question.

[@ethanaubrey858]

Sunset Sunday try 12-74

[@septicemic39]

Might I ask why you have a drop A acoustic?

[@joefelkins7930]

LeopardSniper12 It sounds like a new door to me

[@royalcat10]

LeopardSniper12 Probably just to make it super easy to transition a Drop A song from electric to acoustic or maybe that tuning just suits that persons voice better. For me personally, I really enjoy the key of A minor and singing in anything higher than drop C or C standard just sounds like ass (Mostly because I'm an ass singer in general). Having it in Drop A means you can play the music you want in the key of A minor/major without having to transcribe or put a capo on the 5th fret (From E Standard)

[@areeyeveeeeare4881]

I played slipknot. Drop A on my acoustic once

[@arkivik]

Ive been playing for like 10 years now and never new anything about strings and their prefered tunings, I always change my tuning on my guitar alot too. Explains alot.

[@ScoDiddley]

8-46, here, and I use a heavy pick 🤘😎🤘

[@pawelos4]

BEST SET

[@rosev.7007]

my set: .008, .010, .016, .024, .046, .056 I play in standard btw 🤘

[@Yamagatabr]

What pack can you get with it asides of Fender's Yngwie set??

[@netcodeerror9420]

Same here and I put it in E flat standard. Not even trying to copy Yngwie I just love the ease of bending with it

[@zplayer182]

Finally! Been looking for a string gauge explanation for years! Good to know that I've been spot on with my gauges on my guitars for the past five years. Thanks for the great video Fluff!

[@tobiastk5391]

I use 10 - 52 in Drop C on my SG, and it's perfect for my taste, it's not floppy at all actually.

[@MegaBitterMan]

same here with my Flying V

[@The10000lbGorilla]

Just tried setting my Jackson up for Drop B and picked up some 10-54s, WAY too floppy. Gonna have to buy a fatter set.

[@PorscheJon]

Same here.

[@Wafty-]

The10000lbGorilla If you're using a string through or hardtail, I'd use 11-56 or 12-58 for drop b, some where around those lines. If its a floyd you have, use 11-56. Just from personal experience.

[@MegaBitterMan]

The10000lbGorilla for Drop B I use 11-60

[@brunodk11]

I use 13 - 59 in a Fender Telecaster 24,75 with humbuckers, from D Standard to Drop A#. Really good.

[@Sgt_Rash]

Dunlop Heavy Core: 10-48 - Drop D/Drop C# 11-50 - Drop C/Drop B 12-54 - Drop A#/Drop A

[@raydog_97]

That’s way too light 😂

[@raydog_97]

Drop D - 10-52 Drop C# - 11-54 Drop C - 12-60 Drop B - 12-62 Drop A# - 13-62 Drop A - 13-64

[@brettandlaos5792]

I've been searching for a good video that properly explains strings for a good hour or so, then i found this video and it's like a god ray of sunshine lighting up the dark. About time.

[@tito9107]

What about for 7-string guitars? WE EXIST!!!

[@korasie]

Thanks Fluff! I don't think I've seen anybody talk about this as extensively as you have. I will probably use this PDF for the rest of my life btw.

[@tk4x431]

Best string guide on youtube!

[@peterbrynildsen1485]

I like your videos. You get right to the point and explain things in a both audible, visual and strategic way, without wasting the viewers time. I kind of like that you don't constantly do the whole vlogging, faq, meet the wife game, making 30 minutes long videos where only 1 or 2 minutes are of actual value and relevant. Or are making tutorials not telling the full story and are keeping the best tricks for your self. It just gets too much with certain guitar youtubers, and I almost cant stand watching them anymore. The actual content and info in your videos are usually quite good and are of a bit higher quality than most others. Keep up the good work.

[@raydog_97]

We need another guide to string gauges video especially since Ernie Ball has some new sets. Like this comment if y’all want Guide To String Gauges Part 2👍🤘

[@ActuallyPhil]

Just watched Robs video on string gauges and just as I was finished this pops up. I call that timing!

[@MrCaedoTV]

Just an alternative view: It bothers me, that the E (lowest string) is always a little floppy in standard packs and the A and D strings have much more tension than the others in a heavy bottom set... so I ended up with: 25.5" E standard: 10-13-17-26-36-49 (10's + '49) 24.5" E standard: 11-15-19-28-37-52 (11's BT + '52) 25.5" Drop B: 12-16-20-34-46-68 (12's + '68) This gives me balanced tension with a slight increase towards the lower strings.

[@bobisadrummer]

This. I use a 9.5-13-17-25-35-50 for my E standard 25.5" Like you, I can't stand how the low E is so much floppier than the A and D and the b being tighter than the high E and G.

[@Mr.Goldbar]

tried a 9-46 (with a 50 instead of the 46) for E standard on my strat, wanted to move to 10-52

[@OwenNZ]

Because everyone is going to say 'but I use ____ so you're wrong' note that Fluff says 'recommend'. It's all up to the individual player, but in terms of 'standard' gauges for various tunings, this guide is spot on. I mean hell, I play a 25.5" 7 string with a .013-.064 on my top 6 strings and a .089 on the bottom tuned to FCGCFAD, because that's my personal preference, but based on that premise I wouldn't call Fluff wrong whatsoever, I just like a weird string gauge.

[@ChristianIce]

I think a 60 on a gibson scale in drop B is too light, at least for me. Not much about the feels, you can get use to it and not kill the tuning by hitting too hard, but more for the left hand, cause you really have to mind not pressing the string too much, expecially on the first fret.

[@raydog_97]

I use a 64 for Drop B 😂🤘

[@brettpanzer]

i know this is a 4 yr old comment, but the ernie ball 8 string slinky 10-74 is perfect on a gibson scale to me for drop b and drop a. throw out the first 2 strings and it's 17-74.

[@LuckyThreeLeafson]

@@brettpanzer Damn bro a 17. How's the tension on that set?

[@notoriusdrifter40]

Bro i got a 0.60 for drop c and i cant set my intonation now

[@gr3y_eminence]

@@LuckyThreeLeafson Holy crap...2nd string is a 17? If that's unwound, then it probably would cut through uncalloused skin like a hot knife through um skin.

[@buzzardsinuses4780]

Skinny Top and Heavy Bottom on a fender for E standard a/ Drop D is perfection! I just put a set on, and I immediately loved it. I used to use Regular 10 to 46 slinkies.

[@broondjongen]

When you play Drop B on a Jackson with super slinkies

[@trainsanddominoes1]

My favorite string brand is Cleartone. And the string gauge I use for E Standard tuning on a Gibson scale guitar are the Light Top Heavy Bottom 10-52s. And for a Fender scale guitar I use Hybrid 9-46 set but I would replace the 11. with a 12 for the B string. An 11 tuned to B feels a little weird to me. For Drop D on a Gibson scale guitar I would use the 10-52s with the 52 replaced with a 56 so the low E string can have balances tension with the rest of the strings. For Drop D with a Fender scale length guitar I would use the hybrid 9-46 with the 11 replaced with the 12. And also replace the 46 with a 52 because a 46 for me is too light to be tuned to D as well as unbalanced tension with the rest of the strings. For a Fender scale length 7 string guitar I would use the 9-12-16-26-36-46 and use a 60 for the low B. For Drop A I would use the same set but replace the 60 with a 70. For other tunings I use the Digitech Drop pedal. I tune to C# Standard 90% of the time.

[@Rooster7six]

For drop A or drop B I just buy a 7 string set and drop the high e string

[@arnizach]

I got my first 7-string a couple of months ago and I'm still experimenting with gauges and brands. I put on Dunlop Heavy Cores on it the other day and I've been really happy with it. The gauges are 10, 13, 17, 28, 38, 48 and 60. Really good balance between high and low strings for me. The high strings are comfortable for bending and shredding, while the lower strings don't flop around under my relatively heavy attack.

[@johnrigdon5308]

What beardcare products do you use?

[@coolx9357]

is your les paul 24.75 inches? if so you can use same gauge or go next one up

[@ivonahora]

Probably Dunlop formula 65

[@DoomBunnyKiller00]

This actually really helps me. I just got my first Les Paul, a used Epiphone standard and the 10-46's that are on it just don't feel right in Drop D. But on my Fender strat i like to use 10-46's, even if i play in Eb (although its just tuned to E right now). I guess the scale length really does make a difference.Thanks for the tips man.

[@randyrrs7028]

CyberDreams what about half a step down

[@Winterhe4rt]

no love for drop A#? ^^'

[@TOTO-nr8vu]

Daddario EXL158 13-62

[@Winterhe4rt]

remmeber A# is basically just a C standard tuning with 1 dropped string. playing 13s is without a doubt way too tight and feels uncormfortable. I tested this set already. its not really great on a fender scale tbh.

[@TOTO-nr8vu]

What string set ???

[@Winterhe4rt]

the one you suggested?

[@TOTO-nr8vu]

Sorry i m french and my english is bad....

[@josuastangl7140]

Kerry King plays 9-42s in Eb standard and 10-46s in C# standard

[@euan6424]

You can play 10-52 at C Standard fine as well, gives it a nice slacked sound but keeps its tune when playing hard. Ideal for stoner rock/metal stuff.

[@christineblack4654]

10s at C standard??? not!

[@armandoarrojo9841]

I love the guitar community! ROCK ON GUYS!

[@tetanusforbreakfast3500]

@5:01, D standard... WTF? 54 for a Fender (25.5") scale but just 48 on a Gibson (24 3/4") ??? Are you sure it is not the other way around ?

[@kuzWich]

Tetanus forBreakfast, Agreed! Fluff slip called the 11-48 ‘The Beefy Slinky’ also. I go switch crossing 10-52 with 11-50 sets for my 2 axes in Dstd, and while 10-50 feels spot-on with 25.5, the 11-52 somewhat urges for a 54 instead on a 24.75

[@raydog_97]

Use that 11-54 set for D Standard on a 24 3/4, it’s way better

[@QueenFrisky]

I'd use a 56 for D Standard and Drop C for the 24 3/4 scale

[@Lollerkid]

I use earnie balls too, however a little bit different gauges: 25,5" - E-Standard : 9-46; Eb-standard: 10-46(or 10-46 and a 48-49 for E6); Drop D: 9-46 w/48-49; Drop C# - 10-52; D-standard: 10-52; Drop C: 10-52 w/54; C#-standard: 11-52 or 11-54; Drop B: 11-54 w/58 or 59. 25,5" 7 String 10-74(8string) w/o 74 for 'Korn' tuning; 9-52 w/58 for standard. These custom sets gives me (i think) well balanced tention and i recomemnd them to floyds and great for bending 1,5 notes without breakage. 24,75" - 24,5" - 25": E-Standard : 10-46; Eb-standard: 11-48; Drop D: 10-46 w/48-49; Drop C# - 10-52; D-standard: 11-52/54; Drop C: 11-54-56 w/54; C#-standard: 12-54; Drop B: 12-56 w/58 or 60/64. Baritone 7 String 10-64 for Korn tuning; 9-52 w/60 for standard. 8 String standard F#-F 9-80 or 10-74 9 string like 8string: C#- C: 9-80 w/95 or 105 Bass: E/Eb Standard: 45-105; D-standard/Drop C#/C: 50-110; 5 string: 45-130/45-135; Limp bizkit Nookie style G# 40-95 or 45-95

[@gmodollas6685]

No wound thirds? For drop B I buy a 7 string set and throw away the high string. I hate the big unwound 3rds that come on the larger 6 string sets. They sound dead to me.

[@XxXSKYCHIEFXxX]

Ryan Bruce I tried it once and never went back. absolutely love the wound third!

[@nathanlawler2245]

Yeah I mainly stick to heavier 10's to 11's but I'm always in Standard and if I want to go tighter (No problem with tension for me) but I have to use a wound g, mainly because they make the unwound G strings too thick and too tight for me, so when I use the wound G it keeps the tension in uniform, but it still looks and feels like it's right. I also have problems tuning g strings so the winding helps.

[@DolusXIII]

Same here, I hate not having a wound 3rd in drop C. It sounds like its always a little sharp.

[@heretictemple9830]

I agree. Big unwound 3rds sound horrible. They don't feel comfortable for me when I play octaves and they don't sound so clear.

[@evansgoff476]

I swear by wound thirds. I support this statement. Good on you brother.

[@jcspaziano]

Great vid as always fluff. Ill throw in my worthless specs for the other extended range players. I use: 009-062 in drop A 7 string @ 26.5inch (Jeff Loomis FR) 009-072 in F# Standard 8 string @ 27inch ( Carvin DC800) I do a fair bit of weedly's so this change from 10s was really nice feeling on the left hand. I did have to relax my right hand for faster alternate picking stuffs.

[@eirikauneboehmer7980]

What about the Extra Slinky set (8-38)? They are quite fun.

[@andrewreichert15]

I use 10-52 for c standard on my strat and it works BEAUTIFUL. Very helpful video for folks who don't know

[@andrewreichert15]

For my sg I had I used the not even slinkys and gave a similar feel

[@TheMusicfan189]

Ernie Ball regular slinkys 10-52 every day, all day. I started out with 9's but there was something "twangy" about them that just didn't sit right with me. Moved up to 10's and while it took some getting used to (amazing how big a difference one gauge up is) the stability of the strings themselves and tuning in general is miles above 9's.

[@TheMusicfan189]

10-52's for Standard and Eb, 11-56 for drop C for me.

[@dylanwillis1473]

TheMusicfan189 Try Dadarrio NYXL'S they are amazing. they are about 5 extra dollars but they last three times as long.

[@TheMusicfan189]

Generic Name Might give em a go sometime, I've heard good things about them. I've played Ernie Ball the entire time I've played guitar and just haven't felt like moving haha!

[@dylanwillis1473]

TheMusicfan189 I did too then a guitarist at my local music store recommended them. Haven't looked back since. You get a sticker in every pack which appeals to my inner five year old.

[@nandor1964]

TheMusicfan189 Ernie Ball slinkys wear down much sooner than Dean Markleys or Cleartone. It's worth spending the extra few dollars if the strings last a few extra months. Cleartones last forever and sound great

[@TheOtteroo]

I have Been playing guitar for 50 years now. Recently I found out something quite interesting and quite surprising. I received a Brian May signature gold top guitar for Christmas about 5 years ago. Brian May uses Optima Gold strings, and naturally, I wanted to set up the guitar like Brian May, and what the heck, gold would look cool on a gold top guitar. So I ordered some Optima Gold 9-42's Brian May signature series 24 karat gold strings and put them on the guitar. Well that was five years ago and that same set of gold strings are still on my guitar to this day. Gold strings don't tarnish, so they simply never "go dead" and you don't ever have to change them. I used to change my strings every month. These strings, although pricey, have wound up saving me money not ever having to buy new ones. I do a lot of bending so they are also durable. I now purchase Optima Gold strings exclusively, even for my acoustics and they come in all your standard sizes. You don't necessarily need the Brian May signature ones, but his signature gold strings are virtually the same price as the regular gold strings now. So whatever, I personally don't see or hear any difference. I will say, Optima Gold strings do have a brighter sound when you first put them on but that settles out over a short period of time. I now call that period of time, "the break in period". That break in period is similar to what a normal life of a steel string would be, and once they are "broken in", they sound very comparable to what a new set of steel strings would sound like. That sound simply never goes away and what you are left with is a new sounding set of strings that you never have to change. I only found out later that Brian May doesn't change his strings regularly either. He leaves them on until they break which winds up being long periods of time as well and he doesn't like the brighter sound as much as he does a broke in set. Of course if you actually like changing strings and like the way that steel strings go dead, then just disregard this comment.

[@raydog_97]

Here’s what I use Drop D - 10-52 Drop C# - 11-54 Drop C - 12-56 Drop B - 12-62 Drop A# - 13-68 Custom Set Drop A - 13-72 Custom Set Edit: I have updated my comment, I have bumped up my string gauges since then, Ernie Ball strings are what I’m using.

[@raydog_97]

N W That’s something I would use for D# Standard (E Flat)

[@raydog_97]

N W D Standard too if you like loose feeling strings

[@mewlard1170]

How tf do you solo on drop C with that gague

[@raydog_97]

@@mewlard1170 It’s easy lol I know the gauge numbers look scary and not easy to bend but they’re not that tight lol. For Drop C these are just as easy to bend as 10-52’s in Drop D.

[@raydog_97]

@@mewlard1170 Some people change out the 12, 16, and 24 for a 11,15, and 22 so you could try that instead if you think the other gauges are tight.

[@metsat8ll]

I use D'Addario 12-60 on my SG, for drop C tuning. Have been using it like that for a few years now.

[@derekg5674]

Man you said you would talk about low turnings. You didn't even touch drop A or G!

[@thisguy9560]

Derek Gregory if you want drop A and G use the baritone set. it's got a 72 on the lowest string which is excess but ernie ball doesn't offer as much variety as Daddario for gauges

[@xdx2653]

the video is for guitar not for basses :P

[@we_are_nevertheless7305]

XDX he mentioned bass in the video and talked about those gauges too but ok. And some people like myself would like to try those tunings

[@wea69420]

Derek G For going that low just go 11 with a 27" or 28" scale guitar. Intonating that low is basically impossible on a standard scale

[@roosolini7105]

Get a 7 string

[@anthonydallarosa8314]

Bought a pair of Paradigm's turned my guitar into a mandolin and took a shard of maple frag in the neck. I'm currently waiting for EMS to arrive but GODDAMN! Those paradigms are unbreakable!!!

[@felipec3788]

i use ibanez 8 string packs for drop tunings ( i font use all the strings) cause ernieball doesn't sell strings thicker than 56 in my country:) i like ernieball better but i cant go lower than drop c with the strings available on my country

[@Wolf_K]

13-56 with wound third for tuning D Standard / scale is 24” 13-56 with wound third for tuning C# Standard / scales are 24.75” and 24” 14-68 with wound third for tuning A# Standard / scales are 24.75” and 24” (these are medium gauge baritone strings but I use them on guitars) Self made sets of 56-46-36-26-14-14 (or there about) for some custom tunings / scales are 24” and 25.5” I have no guitars in anything above D as I don’t like it much. I can’t play anything under 12-54 as the high strings feel like soft cotton threads to me. It took me quite a while to settle on these gauges. A wound third is a must regardless of the gauge I may use. String gauge is an important factor in one’s own style and sound, and a factor that gets overlooked....along with pick type and gauge.

[@fauntpingu]

What about the differences (feel and tone wise) between the 'normals', cobalts, hexagonal cores, etc ?

[@themightymcb7310]

fauntpingu I've just found that the cobalts have brighter highs, which is a great sound for metal, assuming you aren't trying to be sludgey. Like them better than the regulars and better than coated strings. Haven't tried flatwound or hexagonal cores but they're on the radar. Flatwound bass strings are perfect though

[@birdfishman]

Have used the EB 10-52's for years now playing mainly in Drop D, sometimes in Standard. They're perfect for that on my LTD Eclipse. For the last 6 months or so though I've switched to open C Tuning and looks like I'll be sticking with that for the time being. The tops still felt great for the G, C & E as it's only the C going up a little from standard, but the bottom 3 strings felt too loose. Now in steps my savior in the form of the new Skinny Top Beefy Bottom set. Still get the 10, 13, 17 that I'm used to and love on the top, but the bottom is beefed up just enough to 32, 44 & 54 (+2 on each from the 10-52's). Thanks Ernie Ball for bringing out out the set I never thought I'd need, until I did!

[@AllenHarrison]

But D'Addario though

[@DRLVIRUS]

All the way, man \m/

[@bremsnix]

Only D'Addario ProSteels give me the brutal high end spank that I want for a nice P-Bass punk sound

[@bremsnix]

Only D'Addario ProSteels give me the brutal high end spank that I want for a nice P-Bass punk sound

[@bremsnix]

Only D'Addario ProSteels give me the brutal high end spank that I want for a nice P-Bass punk sound

[@gardhydahl8395]

Only D'Addario ProSteels give me the brutal high end spank that I want for a nice P-Bass punk sound

[@jayteesgear]

Fluff I dont ever see it in the Comments but I wanna point out how professionally you speak. Even years back the editing was also well done. And yep, those guages have put me in a good place. Funny seein a video of pretty much the same guages I use on my different scale lengths

[@jj_zerozero]

10-52 in Drop C. My hands feel rather relaxed.

[@NDCFreedom]

Same. I have the skinny top heavy bottom on my epiphone LP custom prophecy plus. Feels excelent to me. Everyone seems to think you need 11-54 or bigger but these are pretty excelent. And you can go up to c# and still have a good time

[@jj_zerozero]

True. I feel nervous when I think about putting on Neefy Slinkys on my Strat, so I decided to put on the Light Top Hevay Bottom set so it wouldn't take a toll on my truss rod. My hands felt really relaxed, and the fact that I have GraphTech Ratio lockers and String Svaer Saddles just make it even better lol I haven't even broke a string yet

[@raydog_97]

Jaejae Fuentez Too loose for me but I do use 10-52 for Drop D but I replace the plain G string with a wound G string cause it sounds better, tighter and most importantly it stays in tune. I use a wound G string for any tuning, every tuning. Edit: The plain string is usually a 17 gauge but for that wound it’s an 18 and it feels good 🤘🔥

[@raydog_97]

James Brabham If you’re gonna be using this set for Drop C, 25.5 is your best bet. 24.75 is way too loose.

[@raydog_97]

James Brabham If you really really really want to use 10-52 set for Drop C get a 27” or 28” baritone guitar, trust me I’ve done it and it feels amazing 🤘🔥

[@felipelinares1440]

dude one of the best videos i've seen of strings. nice job.

[@kiiibfeliciano]

I use Elixir Strings on all of my guitars.

[@WholeLottaBulldog]

Kiev Feliciano they are the best aren't they my friend?

[@Airtrooper719]

horrible, too slippery IMO

[@kiiibfeliciano]

Airtrooper719 XBL Well I think the slippery factor adds to the quick transitions along the fretboard.

[@Airtrooper719]

Kiev Feliciano Kind of, but i've had a few times where the string has popped from under my finger during a bend because of the slipperiness, I never had that happen with uncoated strings.

[@kiiibfeliciano]

ohhh i gotcha cause I experienced both ernie balls and elixirs and I would say that ernie balls are good for gigs and elixirs are good if you don't want to change your strings more often.

[@kawaiirunnersdriftclub]

Same conclusion I got about a year ago on Drop C tunning. 12-56 is the way to go, especially on a shorter scale!

[@liaguitar4576]

I have a 7 string 27" scale length that I tune to drop G (D standard w/ a low G). Would you recommend buying the beefy slinky and throwing a 74 for the low string, or do you think that would be too tight?

[@BushidoMusicOfficial]

So informative, it helped me decide on power slinky 11s perfect for fast playing and downpicking. Not too hard for bends and not too soft so they stay in tune

[@te187tv]

With the way he's sitting and looking at the camera i feel like im in a shop.

[@phantomtearsca]

I'm using the 11-54 set for D# Standard (fight me, I hate calling it 'Eb') and Drop C#. Keeps it nice and tight for me.

[@dylanschad7207]

Typical that this comes out the day after I bulk purchase a load of strings. Still very useful info though

[@sawyerschneider4733]

For me, I like to use a 10-52 on a strat. I'm mainly in E standard, however I will occasionally go as low as drop c#. On a Gibson, I like 11-54. I tune the same way on a Gibson too. I'm MUCH more of a rythym player. I rarely bend. But when I do, those gauges work good enough for me.

[@te187tv]

Now lets talk about the bass for a little *closes video

[@Pengulin]

First comment to make me laugh

[@merf9730]

I'm pretty heavy handed so for standard I use 10-52, Drop C is 12-66, and Drop A# is 13-74 all on fender strats and showmasters (25.5"). For bass I use 50-110 for standard, 55-130 for Drop C, and for Drop A# 60-145 gets the job done on fender jazz basses (34"). It's pretty heavy but maintains tuning very well and allows you to do complex chug rhythms at higher tempos without the strings flopping about and getting in the way.

[@tomscioscia9869]

You probably think I'm crazy for playing Strats with 9-42 Eb.

[@GarrettX001]

I used 9's and 8's, don't worry.

[@mogmason6920]

Your not crazy at all, I use 9's for drop c tuning.

[@lmcf_gtr]

Tom Scioscia that's nearly Yngwie'd.

[@GarrettX001]

Yeah Yngwie uses an altered 8's set.

[@JE12334]

Tom Scioscia

[@Everyday_Reznya]

I have 13-72 baritone on my les paul in drop b and its fantastic !

[@jleverette666]

Did you have to file the nut for the low e to fit?

[@kedamono2562]

Are there any Ernie Ball strings that don't rot off my fretboard in 5 seconds?

[@usoppbarbosa981]

pretty scary indeed. I have yet to find strings that rust as quick as ernie balls. in about 30 minute they lose all their shine, and after about... 10 hours or less, they have to go or i might cut myself on the thinner strings if they don't break before that, just because of how rough the string gets.

[@connorloughran6666]

This may be late, but I use Elixir Nanoweb strings and those things last FOREVER. They're coated, and I love them. They probbaly last a good month or so with every day playing.

[@GIRmight]

Hey Fluff, I primarily use a D tuned or Drop C with D tuned strings on my bass. Personally, I think that for C and D tunings the ideal tuning is 55-75-100-120. It maintains the tuning very well and does not sound sloppy or floppy which tends to happen when droping a tone or two. It's a shame Ernie Ball doesn't sell that type of gauge. Nevertheless, Dunlop sells them in packs, it's called Heavy Core, Heaviest setting. I'm sure you'll know them but maybe they'd fit better than what you're doing with that regular 5 string pack. Either way, I will try out putting a 5-string set on my 4 string to see how it feels. Thank you for this!! =)

[@MrMetalManMe]

I use 8-38s in all tunings for heavy metal. You neglected the blue pack of 8s. Shame on you Fluff.

[@Antonio_bandana0u812]

Same ! 8-38 labella on everything

[@zachary963]

Seriously??

[@silaswintersguitar]

Im among those using a power slinky set in drop C on my jim root strat. Had it professionally set up for it. Holds tune and feels amazing.

[@yvan2218]

I like the 8's set..... just me. I like easy and reaaaaaally high bends. For my SG....... Just me...... Pls dont kill me.

[@Gongasoso]

If you can fret a note without going out of tune because the string is so loose, nobody should "kill you" If you can't, I'm afraid you either work on relaxing your fingers, while keeping 'em accurate and nimble (can be tricky), or I'd play something beefier that isn't as expressive, but allows for more consistent playing. Besides, it allows for more passionate playing on your picking hand.

[@yvan2218]

Easy yes but I primarily use the 8's for solo songs coz you know. Bends. I use 10's for the rhythm part coz its a lot more heavy and a lot more beefy than 8's sets.

[@Airtrooper719]

Yuck lol

[@yvan2218]

8's and 10's are the only thing available here, sooooooo.... yeah. It's a small store.

[@yvan2218]

The rest are cheap Chinese strings that snap easily.

[@wmxx2000]

I have a 25.5 scale guitar and I love all Light top/Heavy Bottom sets. Standard E - 9-46, D# Standard, Drop C# and Drop D - 10-52, D Standard/Drop C - 11-56 and finally Drop B - 11-58

[@joelvelazquez4748]

"Now let's talk about basses" *Closes video

[@mihailxslavov]

Great video man! I'm currently using a 10-60 set for drop B on a ESP LTD EC-1000 and it feels great. The higher strings are easy to bend and the lower have punch and attack for chugs and big chords.

[@StayFreshMyFriends]

Does anyone else dislike Gibson guitars?

[@infinidominion]

they're boring and overpriced

[@liquor8396]

Always wanted one till I played one

[@mudkiptm1951]

cave digger I like all their guitars aside from the Les Paul. Les Pauls are wayyy too chunky in my opinion, and over priced.

[@rickymaidens]

i grew up in Memphis around the corner from a Gibson factory and ive been in love with the guitars since i was little

[@cashgardner4425]

Nope. I'm a big fender guy. I've always had a thing against Gibson for their awful prices and equal quality to any fender guitar of the same price. Epiphones give u the best bang for your buck

[@johnsmith-de2py]

My rough guide for string gauges if your one of those people who doesn't need your guitar to feel perfect in every tuning is ernie balls normal set or light top heavy bottom for e standard to about drop c sharp or even normal drop c if your fine with lose strings and the not even slinky set for drop c to drop b. For me this is the simplest and most convenient setup because I don't have a ton of guitars to have different string gauges on so this allows me to play pretty much every six string song comfortably. If you wanna get the best tone or are recording id recommend using what fluff recommend but for me you gotta find the right mix between tone, feel and practicality.

[@ccandrew111]

I pretty much exclusively use elixir 10-46 in drop d on all of my guitars. Really bright, cutting tone that I just love

[@Mr.Goldbar]

the best string gauges for me are: E standard: 10-52 (both scales), 9-46/50 (fender scale sometimes) Drop D: 10-52 (fender scale), 10-52/54 (Gibson scale) D# standard/Drop C#: 10-52/54 (Fender scale), 11-54 (Gibson scale) D standard: 11-54 (Fender scale), 12-56 (Gibson scale) Drop C: 11-54/56 (Fender scale), 12-56/60 (Gibson scale) Drop A: 10-52+70 (7 string baritone scale), 13-72 (6 string Fender scale)

[@okwhocares]

I play a 2004 Gibson SG Special and use 52-10. I play mainly in standard but I play lots of punk rock (Descendents,Alkaline Trio,Green Day) so I love the feel for the top 3 strings ripping power chords and the bottom 3 are good for some of the solos and riffing. I break 9s really really easily so bumping it up was the smartest move I've made and my playing has been more comfortable then it's ever been and it's perfect for me.

[@TheAaron3dg]

Awesome rundown, even better with the scale length accounted for. Thanks Fluff!

[@Kr3wIpath606]

nice job man, I'm glad someone finally did an in depth on this stuff.

[@avispasentuass]

I used 11-52 for Half step down eb,D tuning,and drop C on my les paul and works great very chunky tone

[@bjornustvliennk8090]

What gauge for a Ukulele in drop Qb?

[@elijahbrian669]

I use bass strings on my uke tuned to drop Qb.

[@WimVandewijngaerde]

I play with the 11-54 for my drop C tuning on a Gibson. Pretty happy with these gauges.

[@emmanieuwenhuis2688]

My standard is a Heavy Bottom 10 set of Elixirs on my Gibson SG. I use it for standard, and half step down, and occasionally even Drop C. It's loose and amazing.

[@soundmapper]

Still a great, and relevant tutorial. Broke a string on my tele and about to head out to buy a couple packs.

[@theeobeastone5068]

I use 10-52 for D standard on my fantomen, a wee bit slinky but I love it.

[@ityler95]

I’ve always used 10-46 for E and Eb. But anything lower than that I used 10-52. I’ve only gone as low as drop B though. I have a PRS 24 fret for both and these two always worked SO well for me. :)

[@theonenonlykyler]

Fluff seriously THANK YOU so much for this video. And thanks for including bass as well.

[@KesslerMickschGeorgeII]

I use 13's on a 335 in C# standard. It sounds beefy af, but the middle strings even the whole thing out and bends are still pretty easy to achieve. This is also a good string set for people who have played acoustic for a long time and just went electric.. 13/15/20p/32/44/56