Strings Choice

I studied technique and performance at various conservatoriums and used these strings constantly. They are strong, neutral, transparent and enable a lot of timbrel tone colour using free or rest stroke and a lot of variation between ponticelli and dolce. Perfect intonation and consistency.

Scale length 21.75", tuned 1 octave down from mandolin. Strings chosen according to D'Addario String Tension Pro tension calculations. Started with concert ukulele strings changing tuning and strings until tensions approximated original concert uke. Mandolin tuning was chosen because I play mandolin and am interested in other voices but don't have time to commit to learning additional tunings.

Restored Concertone tenor with goat skin head. 17 fret steel string tenor banjo with a scale length of 21", tuned 1 octave down from mandolin (Irish tuning). Strings chosen according to D'Addario String Tension Pro tension calculations. Started with Irish tenor banjo strings changing scale length strings until tensions were all approximately 15 lbs. Mandolin tuning was chosen because I play mandolin and am interested in other voices but don't have time to commit to learning additional tunings.

I have paired the Aquila Rayon basses 900 with Bow Brand Pedal Natural Gut strings: No. 6, 9, and 16. These work beautifully together giving me that softness characteristic of Romantic era guitars with enough tension to give the basses clarity and liveliness.

The Pyramid nickel 8s have great tone (much better than expected really), outstanding playability, stay in tune once settled in, and bend like madness when needed. Love the round core. They take a lighter touch as might be expected. Why are you working so hard?

Mellows the active pickups' brightness; less floppy Low-B; adds more slide.

Over the years, I keep experimenting with lighter and lighter gauges. Started out with 12-52 many years ago, then 11-48, then various custom 10-46 sets. This combination is the ultimate solo set. Plays very fast, with easy vibrato, and can even go for 2 step bends! Those with a heavy hand probably won't like this tension. Those with a light touch, be ready to play for hours upon hours without strain.

Smooth to the touch for both left and right hand. Fun to play because they are elastic and play like an electric. Amazing unique chime like tone when amplified.

They sound great and balanced, appropriate tension, and last for three weeks of heavy playing.

Very even/nice intonation settles very quick. Bass strings less scratchy than others. Booming sounds! My favorite to show guitars with. Works well with either my spruce guitars or cedars.