What kind of strings should I get for my acoustic guitar?

Is it a classical acoustic guitar (nylon strings) or not (bronze strings). If you are using bronze strings, you have to decide what gauge you need – in other words, do you like the strings to be bendy or very bendy or not bendy at all. It really depends on the type of music you play. Many jazz guitarists like a high gauge since there is not a lot of bending of strings going on; rock-type musicians tend to like low gauge bendy strings. I think if you don’t know, go with a medium gauge string. I like Martin 80/20 bronze medium strings. Remember, the heavier the gauge, the harder it is to press the string down on the fret. With light gauge strings you don’t have to press as hard to get a good sound, which is why it is recommended that beginners use this gauge. I hope this helps.

I have used a bunch of different brands and I’ve have enjoyed the Martin strings most, specifically the SP series, but I’m sure they’re (Martin strings) all good. Stay away from bargain strings…they’ll either go dead faster or break. I tried the Elixir strings once because they were expensive and had a special coating on them to “make them better”, but I didn’t really like them any better.

Not to disagree with ccatron, but I tried the Elixers and really liked them. I also took my guitar to a great repairman for some minor repairs and a restringing, and he put the “correct” gauge string on for my particular guitar. He said that the heavier the gauge, the more the strings bow the neck, thereby raising the action (the distance between the fretboard and the strings). I’ve stuck with the gauge he recommended and have been happy with it.

No, Poser, that’s cool that you have had some luck with them..more power to you. Everyone plays their own way and may prefer a particular sound, so its really up to the individual on what strings work best for them.

So, skar138, I would suggest that you try some of the suggestions listed on this page (these and future posts) to see what you like. Make sure that you consider the gauge of the strings (thickness), because it will make a difference in the richness of the sound and how you play the instrument. People that work at guitar shops will probably give you some more advice on brands and gauges, and eventually you’ll find what works for you. You really just have to try a few out. If you’re a beginner guitar player, then you’re probably not gonna notice a lot of the differences until you’ve played with different ones for a while.

Good luck.

If you have some time and cash, find a good guitar repair person and have them do some setup work on your bridge and match it up to some good strings. The repair person may be able to lower your strings, make it easier to play, regardless of what strings you use. Years ago there used to be this old guy in Ft. Worth, TX who did setup work for pros all over the USA. I had him setup my new Strat and 335 and it was miraculous!! Ask around, there may be someone similar in your area.