Acoustic and Electric String Tension Names Explained
An issue players face is how manufacturers across the globe name their gauges as tensions with such a wide range.
To simplify, tension names listed on our string filter are standardized to what most manufacturers use.
Acoustic strings for example, show "Light" as a standard 12-52 set. Then, + and - refer to thicker or thinner variations based on the standard set.
Electric strings for example, show "Light" as a standard 10-46 set. Then, + and - refer to thicker or thinner variations based on the standard set.
We believe that selecting the right diameters for your instruments and your playing style is VERY important. We hope that our precise categorization helps you filter your specific needs. If you are unsure what strings to purchase and would rather use a human player filter, don't hesitate to contact us.
Shop By Filter - How To
You can filter strings by either Full Sets or Single Strings. Classical strings offer additional filters for Bass Sets or Treble Sets.
After you make your selection, the filter will display product results along with deeper filter options with a number count for each available.
After making selections, notice the black filter result tabs above the products. These show what criteria is being filtered, such as gauges or materials. You can X or delete these to remove a particular filter or remove all to reset.
Example: Let's say Mr. Smith would like to know all the possibilities for what he already plays, Acoustic Phosphor Bronze. He knows the first string is a .012 gauge and last string a .054. His budget is $9 max per set. While visiting the Acoustic Guitar Strings page or sitewide in our header:
- Select Product Type "Full Set" (page will refresh)
- Select Full Set # of Strings "6"
- Select Full Set Material "Phosphor Bronze"
- Select Full Set by 1st string gauge "0.012"
- Select Full Set by last string gauge "0.054"
- Input Max Price "9.00"
Once you click away out of price, you should see (at the time of writing this) 17 results across 8 manufacturers. Mr. Smith now has a nice collection of similar strings to compare and experiment with from different manufacturers. Follow this link to see the above result.
If you'd like help from our friendly human string filters, don't hesitate to contact us.
D'Addario Acoustic Guitar Strings
Consistent quality set after set draws guitarists to
D'Addario's acoustic guitar strings and keeps them coming back.
Working musicians are particular fans, since with D'Addario they can keep their strings fresh without breaking the bank. They're simply hard to beat for the money.
D'Addario provides lots of flavors in its acoustic sets. For your convenience and to help you save money, we offer many D'Addario acoustic guitar strings in multipacks and as single strings:
- Nickel Bronze: Wrapped in bronze plated nickel with NY Steel cores and plains, clear projection
- Phosphor Bronze: Steel core wrapped in phosphor bronze with steel plains, warmer
- EXP Phosphor Bronze: Coated phosphor bronze wrap with NY Steel cores and plains
- 80/20 Bronze: Steel core wrapped in 80/20 bronze with steel plains, brighter
- EXP 80/20: Coated 80/20 bronze wrap with with NY Steel cores and plains
- Flat Tops: Ground down for a smooth semi-flat feel, reduced friction, and warm tone
- Gypsy Jazz: Django fast playing style - Silver plated copper wound on high carbon steel
- Silk and Steel: Silver plated copper wound with a layer of silk on a steel core for easy, mellow playing
- Single Strings: Single strings from most D'Addario acoustic sets for replacements or to create custom sets
Have a question about D'Addario acoustic guitar strings? Call 800-513-8271 to talk with our friendly music, strings, and gear experts or contact them
online. They’re available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. EST.
And remember: On weekdays, international orders received by 7 a.m. EST and U.S. orders received by 3 p.m. EST ship the same day!
