I've been playing electric guitar for quite some time now, but I have always used the extra-light strings, just because that's what my guitar came with, and when I was learning that was just fine. However, I've noticed that playing my acoustic is almost easier in some respects because the strings are thicker and I have more to 'push' against when I play (I hope you all know what I'm talking about...the strings just seem tighter and more responsive). So I want to change to some lights or mediums but I have a few questions. I know that changing the string gauge will change the action on my guitar, but will I need to make an adjustment when I change strings? I mean, can I just change to the heavier strings and, as long as the new action isin't anything unbearable, just leave it, or will I need to make a bridge adjustment either way? My electric has nice bridge adjustors (I'm not sure what the technical term is) so it would be doable...it's just that I haven't done it before and would have to learn and would rather just try out the heavier strings without having to worry about it. Any advice from anyone a bit more knowledgable in these matters than I am?
-Jason
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To those about to rock, we salute you!
http://www.soundclick.com/jasonwittenbach
Changing the gage of the strings does not always make it necessary to make adjustments but most of the time it does. So give it a try and see what happens. You change use the setup instructions on my site for checking to see if adjustments are needed and make them if necessary.
However, the biggest problem might be with the nut. The nut slots are probably cut for the thinner strings so the slots may need filing to open them up so the strings don't bind.
Hey Nils, thanks a bunch. Your webpage is helpful beyond belief. It's definitely going in my bookmarks!
-Jason
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To those about to rock, we salute you!
http://www.soundclick.com/jasonwittenbach
You will more than likely have to adjust the intonation after you change the string gage, You might want to take it to a good guitar tech and have him set it up for you :wink: --the dog
EDIT: But then I'm kinda lazy that way :lol:
Oh, that's a good point. The thought of the intonation changing hadn't even crossed my mind. Haha, I guess that's why I have to ask questions like this in the first place!
-Jason
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To those about to rock, we salute you!
http://www.soundclick.com/jasonwittenbach
As others have suggested moving up a size usually you can get by checking everything out with minimal adjustments. it's when you jump a couple sizes that adds extra tension to things and creates more tp setup.
Joe
