What are the best guitar strings you can buy? | A common sense review of the choices | Tony Mckenzie

[@jessehuerta2028]

Can ALWAYS count on Tony for an honest review. And, he does it with a little humor for fun. This man buys gear he reviews...no "commercials" here. The real deal. Thanks, Tony, for always keeping us informed.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Jesse! where have you been my friend... I trust you're doing OK there... and thanks for those kind words. BTW because I use music from my CD at the end of my videos KZbin flags me up as copyright infringement :) (silly boys... they need to understand who owns the copyright.... myself and Alan Bruce!). So anyone that sees ads on these newer videos that is the reason you see them. Purportedly I would get paid... but I think maybe in a million years from what I see of the music business these days. Thanks for watching Jesse and great to hear you.

[@jamalabdul2009]

It's about time someone does an honest video about guitar strings!!!! There's not enough attention paid to the outrageous difference in price of strings and what they claim they do. Thanks for sacrificing £80 for this video! Cheers!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

It's a very difficult thing to try and review really - I must have been mad :) Ha the money matters not - I'll use them anyway, but I never did see ANY video that reviewed a whole bunch in this way so thought it would help guys at least a bit. But honestly, it's hard to get across the info other than just giving an opinion. At least I have used all of these at one time or another so it's a fair overall view I think. Thanks for watching.

[@divided1729]

I was in the very same shop on Monday thinking exactly this. I ended up buying the d'addario xl but only because that's what I normally get. Not put them on yet, the old ones have only been on a year.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Ha... a year! you WILL tell the difference unless the guitar has stayed in its case :) Good to know you have been in there - its like 1000 other music stores and we all just stare at the way wondering if there is something on there that is 'life changing' for the tone of the guitar or maybe make those strings last longer. I'm currently in Florida battling with Irma... Thanks for watching.

[@divided1729]

tonymckenziecom I play every day, quite like the less bright sound of older strings. Normally wait for one to break before replacing the set 😀 Hope you don't have too much mither with the weather.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I DID have aggro with the weather... but was on one of the last planes out of where I was - phew! it was incredible timing. And it all seemed to increase the jet stream towards the east as the plane was averaging 680 MPH and in about 6 hrs 50 minutes I was back in the UK. Yes I know what you mean re the tone on older strings and new are always brighter for a while. The Ibanez I have does not get strings quickly either and has them on for many months usually.

[@RonayKarcsika]

Great review, and thank you for sharing your perspective about the strings. I used the simple d'addarios, but now i have to try the Ernie Ball Super Slinkys. I wanted to ask you, these Ernie Ball Super Slinkys, tend to break easily? - i head stories about the durability, that is not their strong point, could you confirm that? Again, thank you for the great videos and for the rich content!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Some people say they do. But I don't find that. I don't sweat on my hands and they last some while (months) even though I play all the time. What does happen as someone pointed out, is that the strings on the fret side get flats on them and then they need changing. I have a Jimmy Page Les Paul and that used to break 1st string all the time, but to be honest, I don't play as intensely as I did in the mid 90's and I put the string breaks down to that. I have used those super slinky 9's for a very long time, but more recently spent time on other strings. Overall bearing in mind the price and durability they still stand up... but the Marshalls are exactly the same I found. Thanks for watching.

[@RonayKarcsika]

Thank you for the reply, have a great day!

[@bluesingmusic3443]

When it comes to strings, I used to buy Ernie Balls Super Slinky exclusively, but I kept breaking strings so had to buy more. I got lucky, back in 1985 I lived in Atlanta Georgia, there were 3 music stores within walking distance. 2 were next door to each other, one was across the street. (They were always trying to under sell each other). The guy at the smallest shop, introduced me to Dean Markleys, plus I got 2 sets for $3.50. They outlasted the previously mentioned strings as well. I was young & put a lot of stress on strings. Now Dean Markleys are (Blue Steel) are around $13 A set! I may try the strings you recommend. I found a lot of the bigger companies make strings for the "little guys". Hey Fender Strings aren't bad, but they're expensive now too. Btw the guy at the Atlanta shop told me to buy 10 electrics for my acoustic. I took his advice, have used them since 1985.(gone are the days of the finger ruining, guitar ruining Black Diamond Strings for acoustics. They were terrible.)

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Ouch! I always found the Super Slinky strings good myself... but years ago did break them a bit like you did. Interesting about the competition and pricing :) Over here the Marshall strings are cheaper by far than Super Slinky and are the same... but where you are it could be different. I shied away from acoustics a bit because of the heavy strings - I could not handle it (call me soft!). Thanks for posting the info... and stay safe.

[@bluesingmusic3443]

@@tonymckenzieofficial I actually checked for Marshall strings, seems theyre "Not in stock"

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

:( well worth getting if you see them anywhere and half the price of most!

[@daveg4311]

You know...you wait ages for a Tony McKenzie video...and then 3 come along at once! Ha ha! 🙂 Great videos as always! 👍🏻🎸👍🏻

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Yep it does take me a while and generally because I'm a bit slower these days, but also because thinking of something 'different' is actually hard to do. However I do have coming up that Klon Version 2 as well as a hopefully great sustain pedal and a Roland Boss MS-3 which looks interesting. Thanks for watching.

[@keithcarter9396]

Great review Tony, and very sensible comments and recommendations. I have played guitar for 50+ years and have used many string brands and gauges but always seem to return to EB regular or super slinkys. I really liked the feel of NYXL but could not justify the price. I have never seen Marshall strings in Australia but will check. I generally buy my strings in bulk from USA (Strings and Beyond) and save money. Rock on.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Me too it was slinkys 9's for some time and I still have them here of course. The price of some of these sets can be eye watering for simple strings (no matter what the maker claims) but the Marshall's were truly surprising... I expected cheap and nasty, but instead I got cheap and good. Thanks for watching.

[@jessehuerta2028]

Until watching this video I would have sworn by the NYXL strings. I'm going to have to try the Cobalts and see how it goes. Thanks again, Tony.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Yes check them out. Very good strings but a bit expensive. Great on Stratocasters for increased output.

[@brianfromoregon2244]

I'm one of those Elixer guys. They last so much longer for me. There is defiantly a difference in feel compared to the non coated strings which I'm not a fan of, but due to the fact that I can go for months instead of weeks between string changes makes it worth it for me. Thanks for videos Tony!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Good comments and views from users means so much more than views from makers really. I don't have any issues with most strings so Elixers in my case are too expensive. But the fact is if they work then that always matters. Some have commented that keeping changing strings is a chore and I can believe that. It's a fair enough argument to get Elixir's also. Thanks for the info and for watching.

[@MikeGgeetar]

I've done this kind of testing a couple of times. I'm not a particularly sweaty handed kind of player and I can get months out of a string anyway. Acouple of years ago I went for the cheapest kind i could find on Aliexpress and went through all sorts up the price scale and I ended up with Rotosound British Steels being the choice. I did plumb for NYXL'S initially, but after snapping a string five or six gigs running I lost faith in them. The rotosound yellows are great too. Definitely going to test out those Marshall's, never seen them before.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Yes Rotosound usually can be bought at good pricing too. I did not have a set here but I have used them too without any real issues. Thanks for the info and for watching.

[@BudMovies]

Another really informative video! I've probably tried every string out there and I have to say that my favorite ones are the GHS Boomers (010-046). They sound great and have a very nice feel to them. By the way: the difference between the Nanoweb and the Optiweb is indeed the coating. The Optiwebs do feel like regular strings whereas the Nanowebs don't. I know a very famous local guitarist who swears by them. I might give them a try as well. I also absolutely loved the Dean Markley Vintage Reissues. Super cheap and sounded amazing. Pity they don't make them anymore.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

To be honest this was a very difficult video to make. It is nigh on impossible to come up with any real way of actually showing what each set is really like but at least I tried :) Hmmm I have not tried the GHS Boomers (at least for a long time) and maybe I'll get some to check out. The *web strings are just expensive though. Over the years I stuck with extra Slinkey's 9-42 which seem good but they came out with those new ones that apparently don't break! I'm sure they will :) but we shall see. Thanks for posting that about the *web strings as guys are always reading this stuff and I'm sure it all helps. Thanks for watching...

[@Leo_ofRedKeep]

I was pleasantly surprised by the GHS Boomers I got on a guitar I recently bought. They are very affordable, by the way but definitely no "bright wires". I liked them for their softer sound and feel. Now I'm out to try the German Pyramids, in the same price range (below 4€ / 3.5GBP). I refuse to give in to the "D'Addario is a must" mantra I keep hearing from people who play metal ;-)

[@nigeladams9819]

I agree, Tony, I have used most of these expensive strings. Some do feel a bit more slinky. I love changing strings, and like new strings. I only buy Rotosound, now. Absolutely fine, no rusty plain strings, when you open the pack. I use electric and acoustic. All good, English and cheap.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Hey I found some on eBay recently (super slinky) for a very low price - about £3 or £4 I think they were... I might bring them on a video to check if they are counterfeit? or not of course... Rotosound been going longer than me :)

[@nigeladams9819]

​@@tonymckenzieofficial I'm 69, do you remember, Black Diamond strings? When I was a kid, you always bought just 1 string, and it was always brighter than the old dull stings 😂 You could get them at record shops. When I was older, I would go to Kay Westworths, Jones and Crosslands, Woodroffes, Smallwood Pianos and Ringway music. All in Birmingham.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I remember the brand of course, but I never did get them.... interesting point though that you could buy just one! I know of most the suppliers but not all... I'm about 50 miles away...

[@johnnysguitarcorner5510]

Great review Tony, I got lost with strings for many years and I do sweat and corrode a lot. I use WD 40 for string cleaning in combination with ernie ball paradigm strings which Work fantastic for me. Started using ernie ball all my life, started with them because of there different gauges wich are perfect for lower/different tunings.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Hey watch the wd40 on the fretboard!... might be aggro. But interesting point. Yes Ernie Ball are cool... I normally use 9-42's but bought some extra light 8-38 just last week to try... very near to Hendrix sizes... he detuned also :) I cant imagine detuned on 8's :) Thanks for watching.

[@TomaisMac]

i use super slinky (9s on HB and 10s on SC) and love them, they do FEEL differently to other brands, my son uses elixer nanos and loves them, I also think they are great but too expensive for my pockets. like electronics, they are all probably manufactured in the same factories with similar materials, but to me, across the brands that I have used the slinky's and elixers are the ones that FEEL significantly different to other brands . nice video, cheers!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I need no converting on super slinkies... just FYI I was at the Dallas guitar show just about a year ago and bought boxes of them with ten packs in each box for around $10 or so :). Best bargain I ever saw... directly from Ernie Ball. I think they are the best too and many of the others as you see on here are .. well OK but not for me. Thank you for watching and stay safe.

[@GuitarZenMan]

Tony I went through the same process and went with Ernie Ball Cobalt for both the sound and the feel. I buy them on Amazon a box of 6 packs is approximately $49 or 39 quid. The interesting thing about Ernie Ball is that they are very much into researching metals and alloys and trying to move the ball forward this is how they came up with the Cobalt line and the Paradigms.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

There is no doubt that there is a difference in those cobalt strings. I was pleasantly surprised when I bought them (probably 6 months ago or more) and the paradigms are interesting in so much as they will replace a set if the strings break... that has to be a first... but I have yet to see the price of course. Thanks for your info - it reinforces exactly what I found with them too. Thanks for watching.

[@briancrete5873]

Absolutely love your videos, Tony! Thanks for all the great info. If I'm ever in England let me treat you to a pint haha! Cheers my friend.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Mine will be PG tips :) Thanks B for watching - these are useless without guys to watch them.

[@davetats6331]

Have you got any semi hollow guitars? ES Gibson's etc. Do you like them ?

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Hi Dave, actually no I don't own any of those. I have tried them - even back in the day so to speak. The amps were always too loud and there was bad feedback then. Today its different I agree, but semi 335 types of guitars I don't own primarily because of the style of music I play. Thanks.

[@nialloreilly]

Great video Tony! very interesting.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks Niall.... and thank you for watching.

[@TimBrannen]

I used EB 10s for ages but getting older I changed to EB 09-46 for easier bending. As soon as I did I started breaking the little E string like mad, to the point that I'd bought a stack of single .010s to replace the .090 with when they snapped. A few months ago I switched to D’Addario NYXL0946 and haven't broken a string since. They are a bit brighter than regular EB and XL Nickel Wounds. I did like the Cobalts but ultimately stopped using them after reading that there was a question of increased fret wear. Note: the NYXL0946 set runs between $11 - $13 (US) where I live.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks for the info... I did not hear about fret wear on the cobalts but it might be the case? anyone have a definitive answer on that? I certainly don't but they are pretty great strings for the general result. Thanks for the info Tim... every post on here is useful in one way or the other. Thanks for watching.

[@garywordsworth9302]

Great video as always and 3this week you are spoiling us ha ha The elixir are d'addario xl strings just shipped to gore polymer coated and sold as elixir. I used the elixir polyweb as I have the same acidic affliction as your grandson 2 hours of playing with nickel strings and they are black and dead by morning.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

You have my sympathy... and it hacks strings very quickly. In any case where this happens those coated strings will probably do it like you say. I see his guitar all the time and the strings are literally black and toneless. Thanks for watching.

[@MyriophyllumTuberculatum]

Great video as usual!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks... and for watching too.

[@TheSixfinger1]

Another string worth checking out are John Pearse Acoustic # 200L 80/20 Bronze Wound Light Gauge. They also do Nickel strings for acoustic as used in 60's

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I honestly can't check these myself, but if you think they are OK its cool to list them on here... thanks for the info and for watching.

[@TheShinyShow]

Cobalt is an intrinsically magnetic element like Nickel and Iron so I can see where they're coming from with them, never tried them myself though may give it a go at your recommendation. I tried the NYXL's and did notice an initial difference, but after going between guitars with normal d'addarios I forgot they were any different. Don't feel the need to buy them again. I bought a used guitar in January that the guy had set up with Elixirs and they haven't aged a day, really impressed with them. I think I'll try them again - I don't notice the coating so the longevity is probably worth it for me with my Floyd Rose guitars.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Yes the cobalt strings over every other set here really did sound louder. I laughed at the time but ate my words later. On the others, TBH I did not really see much difference between them except (maybe) the claimed longevity. But I don't really sweat at all and my strings last a long time so that was never really a problem and maybe why I did not see any real gain for myself. Really interesting subject but hard to review for sure. Thanks for watching.

[@TheShinyShow]

I keep my strings on for months at least with daily playing, I'm interested to see how long they will go. I got a job lot of the super slinkys from gumtree really cheap so won't be buying strings for a while anyway. Ultimately the cheapest decent strings are the best, all gimmicks aside. Thanks for the video Tony.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Exactly correct... thanks for watching.

[@antoinefleuriot2509]

Interested in the Marshall strings 9 to 46. Do you know where on line I can buy them as I could not find them. One annoying thing is the prices for the same set of strings vary so much in price depending on where you buy them. Overpricing in music shops for strings is bad business as it puts musicians off buying from a shop & potentially buying something more expensive while in the shop, Guitarist are suckers for hype as we are always searching for the holy grail of guitar sounds.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I guess Marshall (but then wrong price). They were at the dealers at the beginning of the video for sure (as you see I bought some) so they should be out there. Well, music stores have generally a hard life and they have to make money especially if bricks and mortar... its one reason I go to the local dealer. Price does matter though so they generally offer a bit of discount if asked. But you are right... the 'holy grail' really does not exist. Thanks for watching.

[@achillesStar]

My thoughts about the expensive strings are the same as yours, they might not rust as quick but they will still wear out just the same and wont last 4 time as long. I used to use Ernie ball super slinkys but I found they didn't last very long, they would go black very quickly (I don't have overly sweaty hands), so I switched to d'addario which seamed to last a bit longer and were roughly the same price. One thing about the d'addario is you can buy them in packs of 10 which can make a bit of a saving. Keep up the good work

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

How weird! I used super slinkys for a very long time and I never had any 'black' on the strings. I can confirm that they appear slightly softer than some other strings where after a while you see 'flats' where the string has worn from touching the frets. Thanks fore the info and feedback on D'addario strings also. Thanks for watching.

[@SocksworthRiffs]

I have very corrosive sweat personally, so normal strings rust very fast despite me liking your average daddarios .10s. after I tried elixirs and them lasting me nearly a month initially (and I play a lot) one finally gave up, and that was way before rusting stage ( I have a feeling it was heavy handedness) and I gave it my seal of approval since then. They last me at least 4 tubes longer than normal strings and feel amazing as well as very good tone. It's a godsend for me. Also thanks for this vid, fantastic!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

You are not the first with sweat problems to say that - so confirmation that they work for you is great... and thanks for watching.

[@SocksworthRiffs]

No, thank you for making videos! So many of them I found helpful and you're one of the most knowledgeable people there are on youtube :)

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks that is a very kind comment.

[@bigpops74]

I haven't bought a set of strings in about a decade, so I was amazed to see a set of my then favourite 10-46 Slinkys still cost exactly the same (£5.50), despite the massive fall in the pound and VAT rises in that time.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Those could have cost more (no price on them) but I quoted the sort of price I think from guitar shops etc. and yes the £ drop actually equates to around a 20% hike in anything imported in $US. I have to deal with that every day and it soon adds up to hundreds of thousands of pounds a year more than before June 2016. Scary at best and they really need to get the confidence in the UK back sooner than later really or if things change we won't be able to afford anything! Good point and thanks for watching.

[@Jamesfoofighter]

D'Addario 10-46 for me. Ernie Balls die out too quickly for me. I used a small drop of WD40 to clean my strings most times after playing and it does help to keep strings feeling fresh. thanks for the review Tony. always good to hear your thoughts

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Hey watch that wd-40 on the neck... it WILL do harm to the wood if you are not very careful. Yes that's a good point though - clean strings sound better! if it was me though I would look at those things you can get for that purpose.. I love wd-40 but would not want it on the neck... be careful Jim. Thanks for the info and for watching.... appreciated.

[@Jamesfoofighter]

tonymckenziecom I apply it to a piece of kitchen roll and then wrap it around each string and pull from the nut to the bottom of the neck. very little if any gets on the actual fretboard. I just wipe away any excess. it really does a good job of getting all the muck off the underside of the strings

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

OK I just wanted to mention it... thanks Jim....

[@paintbox48]

Hi Tony - just came across this video so I'm a bit late with comments. My gripe is with the Elixir coating - I tried them with my acoustics and found they frayed in places where they are played most - fluffy strings! Also my fretting fingers seemed to slide off them after playing for a while - certainly more noticably than with non coated strings. I prefer D'Addario, or Martin, strings on acoustic, and Earnie Ball Slinkies on electric - but I like trying out new brands, and enjoy having a new set on any guitar. Paying a fortune to keep the same strings on for longer doesn't work for me.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Yes others have commented about the skin falling off those strings. Indeed I like Ernie Ball super Slinky's and used them for years. But those Marshalls are they say the same so check them... and thanks fore the info and for watching.

[@LPCustom3]

Forgot to ask you if you know about the old "Sound City" strings made by Clifford Essex in Wales. The ones made in the early 70's had Clapton's photo on the front. I've been trying to find some as I use to use them back in the day and they were great strings and lasted considerably longer. BTW, the Pyramids will last 5-6 times longer than your Ernie Ball's! Cheers Tony!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Unfortunately not. I know about Sound City as a brand which were common back in the day, but not about the strings. Rotosound were very common back then and I forget all the brands I used there were many... and at one time I used 8's :)

[@ankerguitar]

I have tried Nyxl, Ernie Ball slinkys, fender strings. Yesterday i put on a set of elixir nanoweb strings on my les paul ! Have to say they are the best i have tried so far

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks Thomas for the info - there are a few guys on here that like the coated strings and especially if they have sweaty hands it extends the life of the string. Thanks for watching.

[@1961jscofield]

As a 30+ year guitarists, I've tried nearly every string out there. I worry the Cobalts might wear down frets faster than nickel and coated strings have a habit of shedding after lots of play, like dead skin after a sunburn! The "bullet" end on the Fenders has a tendency to sometimes snap off on a trem bridge, bad news at a gig for sure! I like the Ernie balls but find them to have a coarser texture and more finger squeaks than the D'Addario I use now. (cheapest option in the US as well) I used to love GHS Boomers decades ago after learning SRV preferred them, but now they are overpriced. My 2 cents, great video Tony!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Great input there JH and that's worth others reading. It is hard to review strings (basically playing them on a video won't work really) but the input that is generated by each post is priceless because each guy is a guitarist. I can't say about the cobalt and wear, I have had them on the black Ibanez but I was not looking for that so that's a great point to bear in mind (anyone else seen wear from cobalt strings?) for sure. EB do squeak as you say :) I used to blame the wife, but later realised it was not her :) it was the EB's (believe that if you will). Thanks for watching.

[@1961jscofield]

I recently treated myself to a set of the NYXL's on my Les Paul, cost $12 at Sam Ash. They've held up really well after a LOT of playing and what I really liked was that they came in a hybrid set ranging from 9.5 to 44.5 respectively. Great strings, but still will likely opt for the 10 pack sets on Ebay of the regular D'Addario since that averages out to $3 a pack and I have 6 guitars to restring.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

You get NYXL's cheap over there for sure! I priced them up here in the video and they are actually £14.99 which is about $US 18! You lucky devils... I have to say I never noticed the hybrids (they might have been there but there are loads at music store pro here in the UK. See, you guys get strings so much cheaper than here in the UK. I never checked Rotosound strings in the video but they have been around as long as I have been playing and those can be bought for a keen price in the UK. Thanks for the info and for watching JH.

[@1961jscofield]

tonymckenziecom rotosound makes great strings, best of all is throw in an extra 9 string should you break one

[@1961jscofield]

tonymckenziecom rotosound makes great strings, best of all is throw in an extra 9 string should you break one

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

:)

[@guitarconservatory]

A number of years ago I had a tour of SIT string factory with the owner of the company. He shared with me that there are only 2 suppliers of wire (Mapes and American wire) to all string manufacturers in the US. There can be differences... core diameter, wrap diameter, round or hexagonal core etc. etc. But, the bulk wire...if you're using American sourced wire...they are all buying from the same 2 companys.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Very useful info and thanks for putting that on here... there are other wires these days though? so maybe the info might not be current? I can't say... as I simply don't know. Thanks for watching.

[@theartist124]

I have played the Extra Slinky's (pink pack) for about 30 years I think, I tried the Elixir's and couldn't tell if they lasted longer.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I did too. EB pinks (we'll call them that) had been a 'go to' set for so long. Singularly the cobalt strings were different to me. Try them if you can and swallow the difference in money just once - I did and there was a marked change in volume. Also if you like the 'pinks' as I did try those Marshall strings they are exactly the same. Thanks for watching.

[@theartist124]

Yeah I will try those, thanks for the tip, and I thought you had been playing the pink ones just by how you looked at them😝 thanks man!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I had been playing super slinky 9-42 for years but in more recent times I decided to check out many different strings. And the real tip is, that if you use super slinky then get the Marshall ones as they are identical but probably cheaper.

[@theartist124]

Ahhh thanks!

[@kevinpaul1719]

Thank you! I use the Ernie Ball 8 to 38 and I change my strings often. Not that often when I don't play out, bars, clubs and art festivals. The light strings give my old paws a break. No it's Marshall strings. Ty great investigation sir.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Aha an 8's man! I used to use them all the time some years ago. I liked them too :) but I did move up to 9's to 46 later and stayed there. There has been a move by many makers to hike the strings up to 10's but those for me are a bit too much so I stay on 9's. At one time 8's seemed to get a bit harder to buy and I switched. But remember this that if 8's (hybrid) are good enough for Tony Iommi they are certainly good enough for anything. Not sure if Marshall has 8's but check them they were good. Thanks for watching.

[@kevinpaul1719]

tonymckenziecom I used 10s then 9s now 8s. I play one night a week and to get past three hours some day 7s. I keep ice and aspire on the side for my break. The Trauma unit is killing my hands the rest of the week. Getting old Tony, I will have a tuff time seeing a 7 .

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I bet you do have a tough time getting 7's... I have never even seen any. I'm older too but probably don't do what you do at work... it all adds up over the years. I used to get lots of cramp at one time, but that now seems to have gone away and the only thing I get really is tough skin on the end of my fingers. I always check my grandson for that when he comes around because contrary to his mouth.. it never lies :) by telling me if he has been practising or not.

[@artisanwest9730]

I have tried a few types mainly because the guitars I bought came with NYXL on one and Ernie Ball regular Slinkys (still on a new guitar) on the other. The only strings I have bought are Dean Markley Blue Steel, which are about $5 a set.. My hands sweat and the high three strings turn black after a week or two but I don't notice any difference in tone while the Markley low (bass) strings almost no change in color in over two months. I can see one big reason for using Elixir strings with their high price and that is on guitars with tremolos. It is a pain to change strings since the tuning on one strings changes the tremolo position and detunes the others. Not having to spend a lot of time may make this worth the price (in my case I installed a tremolo block on one guitar). Otherwise, you have a good point about the prices.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Those Elixir should help on the sweat thing... my grandson has that problem and the strings do last longer for him with the Elixirs... Thanks for watching and for the input.

[@GlennMichaelThompson]

Hey Tony, great topic... I don't think there are more than a few string manufacturers who make all the many different brands. I've been trying different "superior" brands to compare over the last 40+ years. My last comparison were Elixir Polywebs.... They certainly didn't last 5x longer; not even 3x longer. Since the 1980's I keep going back to Dean Markley Blue Steel strings. The tone lasts for months in my experience; and even when they start to lose some tone they still stay in tune. They cost about $5 to $7.50CDN depending where I buy them. I believe Thomastik Infeld were the most expensive set I've ever tried at almost $30. Never again. Not sure who makes the Dean Markley's, but I use them on both acoustic and electric. They've ALWAYS outlasted and outperformed other brands in my experience. I just may try the Cobalt's though. Great review as always.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks for that info... these sort of comments help many. Strings are such an emotive subject and probably subjective and like I said in the video... it only really hits you when you stand there and there are literally many tens of sets and brands all vying for the same business. Hence the video. Thanks for watching...

[@dalepal]

I wonder how much difference there really is between brands even though so many guitarists swear by certain brands. My guess is there are only a few manufacturers and many sting brands/companies have their stings made for them with perhaps slight changes to their specifications.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Dale, I'm sure you are right. Many of the strings if you look close seem exceedingly the same/similar. It seems to be the packaging, coating, price that changes... except for those cobalts I found. They were different for sure. Thanks for watching.

[@TheSixfinger1]

Ernie Ball Super Slinky 9-42 ! Only other string came close was a string called Nashville Straights. Anyone remember those? They came in a long box.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Those were (are) my favourites... but try those Marshalls as they are honestly EXACTLY the same. I have not heard of the others you mentioned... thanks for watching.

[@johannesbrahms9528]

Tony, will you please review Ernie Ball Paradigm strings?

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Strings are extremely hard to use as a review subject... there is no doubt I'll try them as they sound (from the specs) interesting for sure... I'm not so keen on the price in the UK though... when I get some I'll post on here what I thought just to add to the conversations. Thanks for watching.

[@Happy-Me.]

The best strings I've found are D'Adarrio 10-46 in every way!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Nothing wrong with them. Actually there's little wrong with most strings... its just that some are better :) and as newer materials are used these days I could tell the difference. Thanks for the info.

[@mrbigstuff6149]

How come you left out the who's favourite Rotosound ? Wound/unwound G strings ? Which do you prefer ?

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Pure chance :) I had what I had.... and I prefer unwound 3rd myself!.

[@Kanthon]

I used to use a wound 3rd but the core was so fine, like a hair, that it would snap at the bridge.

[@SaccoBelmonte]

my two cents....I was buying Optima Gold for my Red Special....20 Euro a set. Then just to try, I bought 10 packs of Thomann 09 Value strings. Guess what? they're the same exact quality (minus the gold coating). They're all made by Daddario at the end. My technique to test them was playing the Gilmour solo from another brick in the wall (pt2) and after playing it many may times they behaved in the exact same way as expensive strings. They're so "good" (read: normal) that I bought 10 packs of value 010s too :D

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Clearly Thomann get them made by others and just rebrand theirs. But that's the case with 'Marshall' strings and super slinky's too and to be honest these days Thoman and the british £ don't get on so I buy in the UK for strings. Thanks for the info and for watching.

[@SaccoBelmonte]

Yeah. My point was more like "get value strings, they're just fine" no matter where you get them. Great video as usual. :)

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Oh I get you OK on that... I agree to a point... if like the ones you mention and the Marshall ones you KNOW they are brand X that's cool but there are some less than perfect strings out there. You raised a good point and I too mentioned the Marshall stuff so we're both on the money :) Thanks Sacco...

[@stephensmith799]

I've tried scores of strings over about fifty years and reckon Elixir Nanowebs definitely last a lot longer. They start off a little less bright but after a week they are brighter than the rest.... and stay bright for three months which is pretty goodgoing....

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Elixir's are a reasonably well liked string from the responses on here re the life of the set. I don't gain from them personally (my strings tend to last a fair while) but thanks Stephen for the info as it all helps other guys. Thanks for watching.

[@baronvonchickenpants6564]

Super Slinky the work horse string, Used them for years, but changed to fender super bullets for my strats for better trem tuning, then they went up in price

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Check those Marshall strings for lower cost super slinky... they are exactly the same! Can't advise on bullets though. Thanks.

[@dadmamouth]

I've been using Elixirs for ages. I was killing a set of super slinkys in a week, Elixers last me 2-3 months.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Do you sweat from your hands much? sometimes that's a cause and likely the elixir's will help. Thanks for watching.

[@Thomasdgolden]

Tony! Great review

[@Thomasdgolden]

Tell u the truth; this past two years, I tried Daddario, GHS, Elixir, and a few others...(i too was a slinky man.) So after all that, I got so busy with guitar work, I bought a bulk box of dean markleys (very very cheap by bulk). And the winner? Dean Markleys. Why? They do the same friggin thing as the rest.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Hi Tommy... good to hear you. Yes once you get past all of the wrappers (read them first to enjoy the same thing about 12 times ) and use them, I guess that most strings operate and work as they should. But man the marketing (especially when you try and make any review of strings) can drive you batty. The one set that really were different were those cobalt from EB. But expensive so I don't really buy many of those. Great on a Strat though for increased output. Thanks for watching Tommy and I trust you're doing OK.

[@Thomasdgolden]

tonymckenziecom I'm so bulked up on strings it will be awhile. I'll try the Cobalts. But you know what? I don't think my ears would be able to tell.

[@antmax]

I tried a few strings recently. I found that different models of different brands can be different. Sometimes different tension when tuned to pitch. I Found the NYXL's needed the least stretching to get into tune. But damn! the little e string feels hard, almost like a cheesewire on bends. There would be great if you are short on time for say a gig and have a floyd rose that you want to get up to tune in a short time because they only need a couple of stretches before they are pretty much set. I also found among my friends who corrode strings, that there are two camps. People who rust out Ernie Ball slinkys do better with D'addario XLs and vice versa. Another thing I a friend online mentioned is that a lot of people build up some sensitivity to nickel over time and can get allergic to the metal. This chap swears by the cobalts which he says are hypoallergenic. he had all his guitars refretted to EVO fret wire and uses these cobalts. No more weird finger pains and itchy scalp when playing. I really liked the NYXL 9.5's on my strat. have been using quite a few ernie ball regular sklinky and super slinkys. Tried those new Paradigm strings which are similar but do actually last longer just not really long enough to warrant the extortionate price. Plus they take forever to stretch and stay in tune. I'm currently drifting towards cheap slinkys since I use a fixed bridge more these days which makes changing strings a pretty simple affair.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Good point about how they stretch and I don't think I mentioned that. Interesting on the aspect of sensitivity to materials... I have not seen that though from anyone I know, but I'm sure that it does happen. The Cobalt's did seem louder in reality compared to the super slinky I normally have. Yes a number of guys have commented on the NYXL strings too citing them as really nice. I thought the cobalt's offered something different than most other strings but also probably overpriced really. Try those Marshall ones... I heard about them being super slinky (ernie ball) and was very surprised to see that apart from the printing I could see no real difference whatsoever except the price... (The Marshalls were at least £2 ($3) cheaper) so overall if you like EB SS then the Marshalls will likely fit the bill. Thanks for your comments as well... useful stuff... I always like to see content like that because lots of guys actually DO read it and it's another point of view.. I'm NOT always right :). Thanks for watching.

[@antmax]

I did look for Marshall strings after your video. I'm an expat in California and it looks like the strings aren't sold over here. Not even on Amazon. Having said that, a lot of the american strings are quite a bit cheaper over here. I really like your reviews. I'm one of those people who once they get interested in something, has to know how everything works. So your inside and out videos are really interesting. Started off with guitar setup, modding, refretting. Then I got my first valve amp about a year ago so I'm digging into that too now :)

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Pity the Marshall strings are not available there - but having said that, Marshall gear in the USA costs more anyway (rather like Mesa here). Thanks for that feedback on the 'inside and out' review stuff. I love top see exactly what we're all buying and it can show a great deal about some brands that maybe they don't want customers to see re quality wise for example. Modifying stuff is OK but you just have to be careful and even I know that I have changed or 'fixed' perceived issues that later I'd wished I had not fixed :) Yes the tube amps are different than the non-tube amps and while the simulators often get somewhere near, somehow, they don't quite 'feel' right when played through compared to the tube amps I have. I am currently awaiting a very special tube amplifier that is likely one of the best (of not the best) tube amp in the world right now. It will be scrutinised extensively from top to bottom and inside and out and I know when you see that review you will really like the video. I was introduced to those amps by a dear friend now sadly passed on, but he was an incredible professional player and had played with many of the worlds greatest guitarists - so I trust his word entirely. It's a completely hand made amp (way out of any reasonable persons price range including mine really) but for a top professional then it is nigh on perfect if they play rock. That is currently being built by the inventor himself and I can't wait to show that amp. Watch for it!

[@amphetamineblue4172]

Do any of us really try lots of different brands ? I started using the yellow regular slinky when I was about 18 and just stuck with them ever since

[@amphetamineblue4172]

Mind you I am the same with plectrums, have been using the same ones since I was 14. Maybe I just dont like change :D

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I do :) but it is a gradual check of different strings - clearly I don't go out and buy this lot every time :) but I have tried them all a few times... for me I tend to end up back on the EB SS's (maybe Marshall now) as the 'benefit' of the other strings is not enough for me. It's like the jeans thing I mentioned in the video which was completely true. I reckon that players get a sort of 'feel' for what works for them and that's what they buy. I can understand the guys with sweaty hands going for the Elixir's etc. too as that's a good reason to buy them. It does not happen like that though for me. Thanks for watching Mike.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I also did that... I used those 0.73 plastic grey ones (I think Dunlop)... for well over 20 years or more... but once I started to check others out, I found that the harder picks were better for the change of style from the end of the 80's through the 90's and beyond. Then the 0.73's were 'wimpy' :) The thing is, I can honestly say, changed how I played dramatically. For me it allowed notes to be played faster and with far more 'attack' than the plastic one could ever do. But back in the 70's and 80's the 0.73 was perfect for those styles of those times. Then I learned in about 93 how to tap... a rather unorthodox way (self taught intentionally) and with the harder less flexible pick it really worked very well, for some reason with a wah pedal (check my wah review).

[@amphetamineblue4172]

I think we do tend to be creatures of habit with some things. I liked the feel of the slinkys, and never had one break during a gig so saw no reason to change them. I much prefer harder picks as well, I use the pink dunlop 1.14mm ones ( also handy to tell when your bassist has pinched them ! ). Can't stand the really thin flappy ones that sort of click against the strings when you play

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Yes most likely correct. Notice how many guys on the posts say 'brand X' is it for them? and often people don't try the others. I think that could be a shortcoming though. There is no doubt that 'some' of these sets really were different in use, but to me it all came down to value and as far as the actual tones went they were 'similar' except for the cobalts. Yes those flappy plastic ones are what I used for about 20+ years since I started playing, but I later 'woke up'... in reality the music changed and I could not do what others were achieving with the flabby pick I was using. That happened for me around the early 90's.

[@michaelmasin1996]

I first got interested in strings when I was mainly playing acoustic, and I figured ot that dearer strings (coated) were worth the money, and I thought it was the same for electric, so i went and bought NYXL's and strings of that pricepoint from the start. Now I'm coming down the priceranges, and I'm actually liking more the cheaper strings (0.11-0.48 ernie balls) than D'addarios or Elixirs

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks Michael for the comment... every comment on here helps guys overall and yours is no exception. 11-48 man those are cheese graters :) - actually they are not... it's just that I'm a wimp :) Thanks for watching.

[@Leo_ofRedKeep]

I have different strings on different electric guitars and they can sound very different acoustically but the moment they go through pickups and amplifier, it's a whole new game and the original differences do not determine the sound. So in the end, the sound of strings doesn't matter as much as people are led to think.

[@davetats6331]

Ernie ball bag ,the only ones I've ever bought. I bought some fender once and they didn't last very long. I'll look out for those marshall's👍

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Check the Marshall strings... I use them too and they are EB's :)

[@underpressureman]

you should have included dr's! they are an amazing string! maybe next time?

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I should have found more sets... but I just grabbed what was on their shelves and decided to make the vid. It cost a fortune! :) Thanks for watching.

[@Thomasdgolden]

One more thing. Elixirs do last a lot longer. The polys are coveted by a lot of rockers. The nano webs are a bit "different" but they are dull to me. (A bit). After a year or two, I missed the cracking of a slinky pack and voila! I'm back to cheap strings. (And just as happy). I always bought the elixirs very cheap as I was string testing for them for a awhile. Good company though.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I was really surprised that the technology is GoreTex! something I did not really know before these tests - even though I had used the strings before... something you just don't look for ha on a string pack. Check those cobalt strings... not that cheap but try them once and you will immediately see what I mean.

[@turnerthemanc]

Tony, another Mckenzie Classic I put Ernie Ball Paradigm on the Strat. £16.99 They are their all singing, all dancing, all "not breaking", all "not tarnishing" strings they have been developing for years...lol ok. They seem quite normal. I'm a 9's/10's hybrid kinda guy, so 9-46 will report back how they age etc

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I have not yet tried the Paradigm strings (they had none in or they would have been included). What I was advised was that they will change the strings if they break - you could not ask for more really. Yes do get back to me on those - the guy I spoke with said they were very good. But it's always better getting info from users I think. Thanks for the info and for watching.

[@turnerthemanc]

still like new. purposely not cleaned them. Bending like no tomorrow. Ive got them on the Tele now but tried 10's this time. Tones beautiful The break return is 90 days.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks for that updated info...

[@davehill9951]

Only 3 piano wire companies in the world that supply to all the guitar string companies. yes guitar strings are made from piano wire. I used 10-46 regular Dean Markley's for years till they discontinued them. Playing live full time everynight of the week for 3 60 minutes sets they worked well. But sweat and finger skin will always make strings dead, don't care who you are or what products you use. Dadarrio's are what I use now and they sound fine. Buy a box of 12 sets and save some doe. I pay 60 dollars Canadian for a box of 12 sets. If you want to use Cobalt strings be forewarned, unless you got stainless frets, they knock the shit out of regular frets and the nut and saddles. Great video Tony. Don't forget the kids love to buy whatever hot rod guitar playing is endorsing them.TC

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks for the info and I wish I could get 5$ sets :) You can't here in the UK I don't think. Also interesting about the cobalt strings too. Thanks for posting that - that's great info for sure. Ha you're right about endorsers :) Thanks for watching.

[@Burnt_Gerbil]

I only choose the D'addario strings for all my guitars, except acoustic. I don't really hear a difference in sound. I just like that they have thosee colored ball ends. I watch several guitar reviews on here and they are instantly recognizable. "Hey, they are using D'addarios." It's a subtle marketing thing I guess. I don't know, maybe I'm a little weird. lol

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Ha I get that. I chose my wife because she was different colours in different areas :) is THAT weird? :) only joking of course and thanks for the info - its a fair point actually... and for watching.

[@alamosabill201]

I'm with you on price Tone, I get a 3 pack of Rotosound for 12 quid on eBay. 👍

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

If yours last a long time (as they do with me) then that's the way to go I think. Thanks for watching.

[@philipdowns4176]

Interesting fact/story, the original elixir strings were polywebs, however they lasted so long the company was losing out on money as people didn't have to replace them as much so for the money would have lasted or used to last me about 6 7 times longer so worth it. "They say" they changed the coating to nanoweb to make it thinner so felt more like non coated strings, but you and I know the real reason don't we! Haha

[@philipdowns4176]

Also as a second point I and probably most guitarists hate changing strings so would probably pay the difference to not have to change them! Haha

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

A really classic state of affairs :) and I laughed at the 'GoreTex' mark on the packets :) thanks for watching.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

That is also a point at least one other has mumbled! and it's not as 'silly' as we might think. Thanks for watching.

[@paisleyplastic]

7$ for Super Slinkys, those are about 4$ in America

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I know... we get ripped here. But Marshall amps are cheaper :) Thanks for the price check and for watching.

[@TheSixfinger1]

Definitely gonna try the Marshall Super Slinky's. Found this on Nashville Straights www.guitar-list.com/news-story/nashville-straights-strings-long-packets

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks for that link... I'm sure that lots of guys will also check it out.. I certainly will.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I see - they actually ARE straight! :)

[@cgbadtelecaster8646]

thanks

[@conradkriel6279]

Don't understand how anyone can keep strings on for more four weeks at a time , if they are playing daily? The strings "determine" when they require changing as (if you look at them) after two weeks of playing daily - you'll see a whole lot of black Muck under them. The strings eventually start turning a dark colour (i.e. They stop being silver!) If you can't see this , then take a piece of roller towel and wipe the strings - you'll see the dirt on the paper towel, clear as day. It's black!! The strings (no matter what brand) do also start sounding less bright and produce a "duller" sound after 3-4 weeks of daily playing. If you don't believe this , then record yourself after 8 weeks of daily playing using the same strings (use a clean tone, when you record) and then record yourself after the string change - you'll hear the guitar become more "jangly" and bright - it's not subjective - it's definitely brighter - doesn't matter what type of guitar pickups etc. I change strings on average every 3-4 weeks but this is not pre determined , I'll hear the strings start sounding a bit duller and when that happens I'll look at them (side on) and I'll see the discolouration and muck on them) THATS when I change my strings. Saying that a lot of times I'll change them before a gig - to minimise the chance of breaking a string. Agreed , that the audience doesn't know or care but quiet frankly that holds true of your guitar, amp, pedals, cab etc - the audience doesn't know or care about what we guitarists place so much emphasis on. Last word - when you string your guitar make sure you wipe the new strings with a paper towel - you'll be SHOCKED how dirty they are (I use Ernie ball slinkies 9-43 ) and have NEVER got a clean set - they are ALWAYS filthy straight from the pack!!! Thanks for this tony I'll be buying Marshall strings next time round!!!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Hi Conrad, well I did say that different people have different results and experiences with strings in the video. My grandson changes them every couple of weeks or so (they go black from the sweat). But in my case they don't go black and they work perfectly acceptably for a number of months in fact. It's true that when I do change them there are 'flats' on the strings... but rather the strings than the frets which is a good thing for sure.The good thing though Conrad is you offer a lot of solutions to different viewers of this video and that's always a good thing how you highlighted some aspects to show some guys the errors of their ways so thanks for that. It IS always good practise to change them before the gig, but also remember to 'settle them in' also or you might be going flat for a while :)I also used EB 9-42 and they are great for the money but those Marshalls :) well, what can I say :)Thanks for watching.

[@conradkriel6279]

String gauge used is 9-46 !! Sorry guys typo - tony wonderful comments as always !

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

:) I knew that :) but wanted you to work for it :) and thanks for the kind words.

[@TucsonBillD]

Hi Tony... I understand that there are only a couple of companies who actually manufacture strings here in the US. D'Addario and Ernie Ball come to mind... which implies that the strings sold by guitar manufacturers are actually made by either of those two companies. No guitar manufacturer (with one exception) has the ability to make their own strings, and so, repackage existing string sets under their own label. I know that Fender is now selling D'Addario strings (the colored ball on the end is a dead giveaway, although the "bullet" on the end of their "bullet" strings is a custom modification for Fender. I don't know who makes the Gibson strings, but I'm sure it's NOT Gibson. One thing many people do not know is that there is a high markup on strings at music stores... it's a high profit item for them. Some stores (one here where I live) sell strings at full retail, which probably gives them a healthy profit at the end of the day. One more thing... if you think that guitar strings are expensive, check out strings for violins and the like... some sets sell for over $100 (US), for FOUR small strings.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Yes I think you are right about the few makers too Bill. As I examined them close it's reasonably obvious. Thanks for the info re who is making what too - very interesting. Yes, as you saw on these strings I showed they do have high pricing, but in this case the dealer is a 'bricks and mortar' company and they have to make money to stay there. I always get some discount (ha never as much as I would like though) and credit to them for that. But you are right that strings on dealer shelves at marked price are expensive. It adds up VERY quickly if you do what I did for the review but they did help. Ouch I have never been near violin strings but if they cost that I would expect a life time from them - and then - the life of my son or grandson :) Thanks for watching.

[@TheDogPa]

I've tried EVERYTHING! Maxima Golds were what I used 'in the day' (and they were the best then), but today in the US they are the cost of a cheap guitar! I can't afford to compare them, but other than them, NYXL's are hands down the best electric guitar strings I've used in 30 years. Sound better, last longer, stay in tune better, stretch farther without breaking...just beat everything in every way...IM'H'O...LOL! I hate Ernie Balls...ball ends unwind, sound dead in 20 minutes, break like hair. Generic to the hilt! Coated ones are terrible feeling and playing. Unless you have nickel allergies, try NYXLs and forget about the rest of the junk. NYXLs don't just feel and play better, they SOUND better, which is what really matters! I'll use nothing else! If your strings feel better to you, then you'll play better, maybe even more inspired...and that your audience can indeed hear :O)

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Ha at the price of these on here I can't afford it either! So I take it you don't like Ernie Ball :) Don't mince your words Dogpa :) It's OK I'm just having a laugh and joking. The NYXL's are on this video too and while I thought they were OK for me, I really did not think they were worth the extra money (just in my case mind!). But you are not the first to highlight them either so there is surely no fantasy in your comments (I've wanted to talk like a lawyer for some time :) You are EXACTLY right about the strings 'feeling' right to the guitarist and the 'right' ones do in fact inspire you to play. They will hear the inspiration of course... but unlikely the string differences I reckon. That point is like guitar leads, tube brands, and I know you could mention more than me about that subject... actually, thinking about your comment - that would be a REALLY good review of the things that guitarists buy that actually (well probably) don't make a darned bit of difference to the audience... who can't tell ANY difference... hmmm a very good and powerful review if done correctly. Thanks as always for that input and the more the merrier where strings are concerned. But that WAS a good idea and maybe I'll look a that. Thanks for watching.

[@LPCustom3]

Why no Pyramid "Nickel Classics" or "Monel Classics"? They're made in Germany and have been making strings for 168 years! Gibson Strings are made by Daddario and have been for about 10 years. No Rotosound's either....

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

The answer is simple... they were not there to buy in my local store. Had they been I would have likely included them. Indeed there were no Rotosound either. I just bought what was there when I had this idea of making the video. You know how it goes... but thanks for pointing out some of the ones I missed and that's OK but that was the reason they were not included. Well spotted and thanks for watching.

[@LPCustom3]

tonymckenziecom Hi Tony; It usually appears to me that some shops only buy what's convient/ sells more of and don't take chances on stuff out of the norm. Pyramid back in the Sixties/ Seventies was under the "Selmer" badge/ brand. Pyramid uses a small core wire and a large wrap wire. The total opposite of other manufactures. The round core wires and plain strings are silvered German Steel and not the typical Tin plated "Swedish" steel junk that's really cheap and plentiful.. Cheers!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

I'm sure you are right on what shops stock. Here in where I live its a bit of a backwater so you only tend to find the everyday stuff. Thanks for the info on the strings too - I did not know that about Pyramid so maybe I'll fish around a bit and try them. Thanks.

[@jukesters123]

the polywebs last a lot lot longer.no pickscrapes.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Thanks for the info JD....

[@Leo_ofRedKeep]

Of course strings are a lot like jeans, no comparison of prices is meaningful without comparing effective durability. Cobalt strings are louder because the metal in them creates a stronger signal in the pickups. Is it really a quality when any overdrive pedal can do the same job? Isn't it the role of the gain in the first stage of an amplifier anyway? We often see people rave about expensive ways of enlarging a signal ("high output pickups") and wonder if they know they can have it for free by turning a knob. Ok, the Marshall strings are packaged by the same people as the Pinky ones. Are they really the same in tone, feel and durability? The NYXL are said to outlast any others. If it's true, the price might be fine. It depends on the maths. Metal alloys cannot be judged by just looking at them. They can look the same and have very different properties. The only way of testing strings is by using them long enough and monitoring the wear along time. Now some people change strings like underwear and say they "dull out" in an evening, as if anyone would really notice. Then they probably play with distortion ;-) I would have definitely tried those Marshall. I got some GHS Boomers for 3.33€ a set (that's 2.9 Pounds), because I really liked the feel and sound of them when I got to try them. See how long they last. Many musicians seem to care way too much about sound. It's not that important. Beethoven didn't, his music was rhetorical and Bach's too. I do care for the way strings feel, though, it's like the back of the neck. Playing ought to be as pleasant as possible.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

An overdrive pedal is not the same as a string sound that can sustain longer or indeed create higher 'base' output volume IMO. The Marshall strings are EXACTLY the same... I have used both extensively. I think like you that there is a question of durability, tone and longevity to price ratio and the NYXL's to me are over priced so I don't really use them much. Of course it is difficult to even try and make a review of strings and certainly those points you raised on that are relevant, but at least I tried! I am picky on strings and the 'wrong' ones for me just don't feel right, which I believe that the 'feel' of the strings along with durability is important and while some talk about the 'coated' strings I have never really found them either having a 'feel' similar to super slinkys or indeed having any real advantage in any way (just a personal comment). The Marshalls really are the same as SS. Yes you mentioned feel at the end and it really does have a bearing on the playing for sure. Often guys do get really 'hung up' regarding certain aspects of tone... but as I always say if hear something that often only musicians can hear... the audience won't hear it and then you would be wasting your efforts on stuff that critically does not matter to the people you wrote the music for. Thanks for watching.

[@Leo_ofRedKeep]

I believe people who "get hung up" on aspects of tone or any other debatable quality are really only looking for a justification to like and buy into something. They see a pack of strings with a presentation or a name they like, a price they think makes them look better, an advertised feature that looks like the "new real thing" and try to convince themselves the purchase is sensible. Guitar makers are now trying to sell roasted maple necks that will stay straight when played on Mars and we see all their little helpers on KZbin join the choir to sing along the hype. As you said, most of it is clever marketing of minor quality improvements or differences. All I really needed to hear from you is that you've played all those strings for years and found it makes no significant, "life changing" difference. I can't find Marshall strings where I am but will stay with the best of the lower price segment knowing I'm not missing on anything. Thank you for that.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Ha I don't know a single person that has played all those brands for years! Too many sets and indeed some that have not been around for long. I DID reference my own personal taste in strings that I have used for years and those were super slinky's... (probably to be replaced by Marshalls). Strangely, I actually like roasted maple necks... and made a guitar with one of those before it was all getting now common... but I did not choose it because it 'works on mars' :) but because I liked the colour and feel of it because you don't have to have any finish on one of those. I deed a good reason to buy one. I can agree that there really is no 'life changing' thins about strings... except that some of them last longer (it seems) and affect your bank balance. Bear in mind that using cobalt strings does make the guitar have a higher output and if you're using a strat that might matter depending on what you play... and cheaper than buying an overdrive pedal (some people usually younger guys can't always afford an overdrive pedal. Thanks.

[@dykeneuk]

I'm going to get me some Marshalls. A big name like Marshall wouldn't 'tarnish' their name by selling crap strings eh.

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Probably not... but check them out and post on here whether you also think those are EB SS strings... Thanks for watching.

[@mariopirrone2198]

The search is over of an aggressive design that pleases a broad group of guitar players. Access to the highest & outstanding quality no matter how many strings people have tried. '666" Pazuzu strings by Ernie Ball for 2019. These just came out to Canada. No stretching is needed. One pack lasts you over a Year. They are Evil. WoW!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

You taught me something there Mario :) thanks for the info and I'm sure that many other guys will be looking at those for sure. I just love the 666 name :). Thanks for watching too.

[@darthslater6077]

TONY THE VERY BEST STRINGS I USE ARE GHS BURNISHED NICKEL ROCKERS I RARELY EVER BREAK A STRING AND THEY LAST FOREVER GIVE THEM A TRY!! I WONT USE ERNIE BALL THEY ARE JUST SHITE!!

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Ouch :) Well, when you're walking around the Dallas guitar show and they want $20 for 20 sets of Super Slinky's then it's a massive incentive to buy them :) and that was what I did. I know GHS of course and over the years have used them but not for a while. But as you have said, I will try some out and give them a go, recommendations are always useful! and thanks for mentioning them...

[@jeromeburrasca6710]

You bought the wrong Elixirs. Polyweb is the best that will last forever. :)

[@tonymckenzieofficial]

Only got what they had there and then ;-) Thanks for watching.