Helped me right when I needed it! My guitar is off to the mechanic to get some bones installed. I also wanted to go down with the tuning and this short and precise explinations and sound-examples helped me alot without going through the trouble of testing several stringsets myselve. Big Thanks and Heavy Greetz
Choosing strings is a very subjective matter, but I've tried so many heavy sets over the past few years, I thought I'd share my own findings and preference. For D or C# standard, regular 11-52 sets from any string vendor work great for me, but I've also had a lovely time with the balanced tension sets from D'Addario, and the occasional 10-52 set. For lower tunings (C standard or lower) I like the D'addarios EXL158 (13-62 with wound 3rd) and EXL148 (12-60 with plain 3rd as featured in the video), and the Ernie Ball 2214 "Mammoth Slinky" (12-62 with wound 3rd). One thing to consider is that a very heavy plain string can cause big issues with intonation on a standard scale guitar - especially a Gibson scale where the saddles on the bridge physically can't go far enough back to compensate. Not to mention that to me they just sound and feel weird, very "clanky" with little sustain. I had a bad experience with Ernie Ball "Beefy Slinkies", so now I actively avoid anything with a 22 or 24 plain 3rd.
@@muhammadaliffauzan2820 I wouldn't recommend it, that low C string will have too little tension to be confortable to play. If you have a guitar with those strings installed, you can try it right away to see what I mean.
@@muhammadaliffauzan2820 try the Power Slinky's.. they're 11-48.. super comfortable in drop C if you like easy bends and still tight enough for good pick control..
Yeah I don't like anything over 22 on the 3rd my main guitar is in drop c with an 15 in the 3rd but could probably bring it up as to have 10-56 I'm left with a 12 on the 2nd which isn't equal tension to the 10 1st and 3rd string. It could be a better set for drop D which I think I was in originally but I love drop C a lot more.
@@Rockerrobin If you want that 56 for your lowest string and don't mind a little bit of extra tension on the top strings you could try the D'addario EXL117 set. Although I personally would usually just pick 11-52 for that tuning and deal with the slightly floppy low C.
I'm using Michael Amott's Sig set 11-59(D standard, 24.75 scale )and it's pretty good for getting back into guitar, but when my fingers are stronger I will probably use 12-62 or something along these lines.
I don't usually play in Standard tuning, but if I ever wanted to, for a 25.5 scale length I like to use hybrid 9-46 with the 11 gauge B string replaced with a 12 (just feels more right). I usually play in C# tuning and I use 11-54s and they feel great and I can bend easily.
It all depends on your style i think. I used to use power slinkys dropped to standard B and Drop A. I was on a floyd rose bridge. The string were a little loose but I actually really liked the feel. Never had any major tuning issues.
I usually run 11-49 or 10-52 on C standard or lower. But I’ve had excellent results with 9-42 on drop C#. Sounds every bit as brutal as my heavier gauges. Just buy a bunch of different gauges and experiment. That’s the best way to find your ultimate set up. You may be surprised. And you may find a new set of strings that kick major ass that you would’ve never considered. I agree that generally heavier gauge for lower tunings is best. But you may find 9-42 or 10-46 will work better than you thought. Keep in mind, if your nut is cut for a smaller gauge and you stick heavier strings on , they may not work all that great. And vice versa. Could get some buzzing sticking lighter gauge strings in a nut slot that’s been bored out by huge strings. Unless of course you got a Floyd. Then it’s not much of and issue except spring claw tension may need to be adjusted. I typically won’t run anything heavier than a 52 unless on a 7 string. But any heavier than that, might as well pick up a short scale 6 string bass 😂. Baritone being the exception. 👊🏻
11-56 for D standard - Drop C for me all the way. throw a 56-60 on the bottom if you want extra heavy chugs. My 7-string usually works best with 10-62 for B standard and Drop A
I use 11 to 54 from DR strings for D standard and drop C and they work absolutely amazing for that tuning. Otherwise for D# or E standard I just use 11 to 52, I like the tone of an 11 gauge.
Dude, this was super informative, as per usual. You've really helped me not only with my playing but my general understanding of the instrument itself - I'm still a fucking noob, but you've brought me a long way. Thanks for everything, my man. PS - A Standard, woof. Approaching brown note territory, haha.
Same here. Love the heavy cores but recently have been using Daddario XT. 10-52. They have been really nice. Just trying out the James Hetfield Master cores and those are pretty sweet too.
I've just recently switched my string gauges because of my tendinites. I'm doing 10-52 on D standard and it works great even for drop C (I used to go 11-56 on those tunings and now it's a good option for C Standard or drop B). The 12-60 is perfect for B/drop A in my opinion, as long as you play 25,5' scale guitars due to intonation issues. Would you think you could go for a drop G on a 12-60? Cheers.
I'd recommend Ernie Ball Mammoth Slinky for Drop G but you might want to invest in a 7 string instead as it will hold that tuning so much better (Baritone is also a very good option ^_^)
For Drop D i use the 11-48 Power Slinky's, for Drop C# and C# std, the 11-54 Beefy Slinky's, and for C standard; the 12-56 Not Even Slinky, although I've been replacing the 24 plain 3rd with a 26 wound 3rd.
That's on a 25.5" scale, BTW. For B std or Bb std, I prefer a 26.5"; either as a 6 or 7 string. A ton of 7's are 26.5", but it's difficult to find a 6 in 26.5". (*) For A standard or Drop G; get a 27.7" baritone. (* trivia: Kenny Hickey of Type O Negative played 12-56 "Not Even Slinky" on a custom 26.5" scale in B standard.)
Ernie ball are going to do a new 12-56 with a 22w instead of the 24p. I usually replaced the 24p with a 24w so the 22w might be a tad floppy but no need to buy single strings so there's that
@@sopadeloro6460 Yeah, i saw their new "Magnum Slinky" pack but a 22w is a replacement for a 20p, not a 24p. you go up a size to keep the same tension, not down. The only thing i can think is that maybe it's a way to not have to change the intonation of the 3rd? I have to assume Ernie Ball knows what they're doing, but i've been basing my string gauges off D'Addario (their jazz sets with wound 3rd), who I also have to assume knows what they're doing. So... *shrug* ?
I use 10s in D standard at first, when they are new, they sounds very warm and soft, then retune them to E standard) On another guitar i use 12s in B standard when they are new and while they are getting old i change tuning to C and C#. But dude, that 3rd string, it's a bit thick and sounds muddy in clean. Don't you find?
Excellent video! I would like to change my strings to the not even slinky gauge for c standard tuning, I have a Jackson js22 do I need to make any changes to the nut or anything or can I just put the strings on? Thanks for all the awesome content :)
Perfect timing for this video as i was looking what type of strings should i use to emulate Chuck Schuldiner - Death tone. Kinda late aswell since i just picked my guitar from the shop, they did a setup for me and the guy working there suggested to switch to 10 gauge strings, so thats what i got. Am i good with this?
Power slinky’s are my fav but everyone has their own preferences I just like the tones I get from those because I like switching between heavy and acoustic
Those are all still super thin for that short scale length, honestly. I use 52 for standard E on 25.5, and I go up from there on both guage and scale length to get as low as needed, to 80 on a 29" guitar for drop E. Every time you go thicker and/or longer, you gain definition and note stability. I have arthritis in my hands and it is still worth it.
How is the guitar affected going from 10-46 standard tuning to 11-52 in drop c? I don’t know much about it. I’ve read online that changing string gauge can affect nut (not enough room for bigger strings), intonation, action, overall tension, etc. I used a string tension calculator online and found the best set of strings to go from 10-46 e standard to drop c would be 11-52 or 11-54 (11-52 was closest to match overall string tension). Any suggestions??
Could easily play in A and even drop the A to drop G with the not 12-60 with no prob at all! I played in several doom band who played in A standard drop to G and G standard dropped to drop F#! Playing in B standard I used 10-54, and even tune to drop Bflat. A# standard/B flat with 10-54 I think is the most versatile. Play anything from Sabbath, Sleep, Electric Wizard, Acid King, Down, Nails, to Mastodon, the Sword, and eyehategod. It’s just a really versatile set up to get an array of doom/sludge styles! Keeps decent tension but has the looseness to get that low warble on the E string. Maybe throw in a slight curve and use 4 wound strings instead of three but very rarely. Cool Video ma’man!!
@@megadesu69 I had problem with 6th string but it took me about 5min to do, every other sits ok but im thinking about new nut cuz now i have factory plastic one
I’ve been using the Power slinky’s for Drop D tuning, I’ve had them for about a year now (definitely need to be changed) but they are still reliable for drop tuning to D or C sharp
Hello Simon, my guitar was always in E standart tunig, a few days ago I tried to go down to regular C tunig and the strings are all loose, without tension. I tried to adjust it on the back of the guitar, giving more tightness to the screws, but whenever I do that the strings go up a few tones, I go back down the strings to C tunign and the strings are again tensionless and impossible to play. Can you help making a video on how to adjust guitars that has bridge? Thanks
Do you have a floyd rose guitar? If that's the case, you can simply search up how to block your floating bridge, and that'll spare you from a lot of issues while tuning and changing strings
It depends what tunings I’m using. If I’m using D standard/Drop C, I’ll use 10-56 (10-18 and 32-56), currently having one of my guitars in 11-60 (11-18 and 36,48 and 60) which between C standard, Drop B and Drop A#. Previously on the same guitar, I had 13-70 (13-48 (w/a 26w) and 70 for the low B string), which I used between A# standard and G# Standard. All this is on a Floyd mind you. Decided I want to go back to last mentioned tunings, so I bought a Daddario 14-68 gauge set which should work nicely, thick but not overly heavy. Only thing I’m slightly concerned about is the 18 and the 14 gauges (which in A# standard are tuned to F and A# respectively) and how much I’m going to be able to bend them, plus on a Floyd Rose. Oh and when it comes to using a lower tuning (C standard or lower) , Wound G strings are a must have. Again, hopefully these 14-68’s serve me well. For the low string, anything below B I generally prefer to use a low 60s or even a 70 gauge string.
I dunno if I just got bad batches but I had a problem with the power slinkies breaking. They definitely had more chunk but yeah, they just broke all the time. Maybe I was tuned too high. 🤷♂️ Ernie Ball's are typically really good though. How do you like the M-STEEL series? Those are my favorites.
Не помню, есть ли у Д'Аддарио полностью стальные струны, но струны с никелевой обмоткой - из-за отличной от стали электропроводности никеля - дают более мягкий, мелодичный звук, который больше подходит для акустических гитар (и подходит офигенно) и слабого перегруза, и меньше для сильного перегруза. Сам по этой причине когда-то соскочил на *ghs boomers*, на 25.5 дюймах .11-.53 звучат очень плотно в стандартном D, Db или дроп C.
Way different sounds with different strings. Lower tuning/thicker strings seems to work great. Bb was very evile/scary sounding down there. I'm going to a "Bigfoot" channel now.
It’s all personal preference I guess. I don’t like light strings, considering going up to 12’s for drop C now, with a 60 on the bottom. Thanks for the video!
List of strings so you can see the difference right away 3:00 Regular Slinky in D 4:05 Regular Slinky in C 5:36 Power Slinky in D 6:21 Power Slinky in C 7:51 Not-even slinky in C 9:15 Not-even Slinky in Bb 10:17 EXL In Bb 11:13 EXL In A
I like the high tension, using a set of 56-13 set in C# Standard on my guitar. Bends are more difficult to do than in C and B Standard tuning but that's the trade-off for longer sustain.
@@SteelSkin667 I could give it a try if my current strings start to wear. I found the 54-12 set a bit floppy, especially string 1 to 3, because I pick quite hard (maybe I have no picking discipline). I found I like tuning a half step higher (F Standard) when I first played with 46-10 set, so I got used to playing with a higher tension.
@@3xclu5iveOfficial By strings 1 to 3 do you mean the trebles or bass ones? If you want to go down in gauges for easier playability but find that the strings hit the fretboard, you should consider raising the action of your guitar to give more room for the strings to vibrate. That's what I do. The important thing is that you don't hurt yourself.
@@SteelSkin667 the treble strings. Also I might raise the action if it helps with the strings not hitting the fretboard, since these strings can do B Standard tuning.
@@3xclu5iveOfficial Raising the action really helps if you are a bit heavy-handed, also adjusting the truss rod so that there is a bit of relief in the neck. It doesn't need to be super high to make a big difference.
E standard 10-52 / Drop D 10-56 D# Standard 10-52 / Drop C# 11-60 / D standard 11-56 / Drop C 13-62 / C# Standard 11-60 / Drop B 14-64 / C standard 13-62 / Drop A# 14-64 that’s how I roll... any lower just get a 7 string
Normal 11s (-49) do everything from standard to any drop. If you use a Tele with a 4 way switch you can do any genre on earth with that guage because the Tele neck holds tension better and the 4 way gives you a humbucker of sorts in 4th for high gain. So anything from Jazz to Doom Metal is yours without having to change guitar or strings. Where as 13s would be to heavy when you switch back to clean for a bluesy riff with bends. The tele with 11s and a 4 way switch is the truth!
I've been D Adario light top heavy bottom for D standard tuning. I always need the low strings thicker than a standard gage set has. The ones I use are 10 to 52. I'd prefer like a 10.5 to a 55 and I see here Ernie Ball doesn't have that either.
Strings are really subjective indeed, I have a guitar specifically for metal, that is setup in D standard with 12-56s (Not Even Slinky by EB) and I can comfortably drop it down to even B standard (25.5 scale). It is a workout to play in D with those but they sound incredible imo, really savage
Just got some regular 10-46 gauge strings from my fender strat . Haven't played using this gauge in a while and I forgot how much it just doesnt have he right tone I'm looking for when it comes to metal.
I bought beefy slinky for standard Tuning, it is fine for fifths but when I want to solo, and bend on the first three strings, they are so tight, I can't bend ez, what do you recommend me?
Hi Simon, I have a kinda long question for you, I hope you have a couple of minutes to answer me. I'd like to buy a guitar for my heavier sounding needs that is more or less Strat-shaped but does NOT sound like a Strat. I checked out both Ibanez AZ2402 and Ibanez MM1, and even though they are exceptional guitars, their sound is pretty reminiscent to a HH Strat on steroids. You can clearly hear that mid-range focused sound. I don't want that, since I already have that kind of sound (more or less) on my American Deluxe HSS. I'd like something that, just to make the simplest possible example, sounds more like a Les Paul than a Strat. Fuller, bigger, more ballsy. I think the huge and full sound it's more a body mass thing than pickups and other factors. I have tried an Ibanez Jem and that thing sounds incredibly HUGE and monstruous (it's more massive than a strat), but I hate both Floyd Roses and Wizard necks. Someone suggested me a ESP Horizon III, that should check all marks... except I don't like it too much aesthetically. What guitars come to your mind that can suit my needs? For example, what about a S2 Singlecut (even if it's not strat-shaped it has very easy access to upper frets)? Or... any other that you think can be a valid option (best of all if it's hardtail too and NO wizard necks). THANKS!
@@SimonSmithGuitar one very last thing and I'm outta here, I promise! I didn't get if in your opinion S2 Singlecut and S2 Standard 22 sounds exactly as beefy and full OR the Singlecut has the edge. Thanks again
What is the best for drop b? I just ordered Dunlop Heavy Core Heaviest for my guitar because i wanna play Slipknot stuff. Did i make a good choice and if not what should i use?
Just in general, When you're in the drop b range you should use a thicker string type (Like 11s or 12s) But be careful on the guitar you use the strings on, you might need to have the neck truss rod adjusted
I wouldn't recommend D on a 26.5. If you do a lighter string gauge would be appropriate. Standard tuning for that scale length is B......27" is also B , 28" A and so on.
You can do D Standard on a 26.5 scale easily. I would recommend trying lighter strings, though. 10-46 or 11-48 should do the trick. For Drop C, I would recommend replacing the last string with a 52 or 54.
Hey there, I just had a question. I have a les Paul epiphone, it's like a black beauty and I play in drop c#. I also enjoy doing my squeals and pinch harmonics lol. What ernie strings would you recommend?
13-56 for standard tunings from Eb - C# And 14-68 for A - B standards Scales are 24” - 24.75” - 25.5” All D’Addario, all wound thirds, all six string guitars. Experimentation is key. I basically tune as if it’s a baritone; in fact my 14-68 sets are baritone strings.
@@jadab.8255 Indeed. I’ve had my 1965 Mustang and Les Paul strung with 14-68 tuned in A for a couple of years now. Before doing so I calculate the pounds per string for the tuning I want and so it’s perfectly safe. Intonation is quite good. The only thing that needs “modification” is the nut; but that is standard procedure for any string gauge increase. Overall the guitars sound fcking brilliant. They are Doom, drone, sludge metal machines!
On the thickest sets I had to adjust the intonation, but it's a thick neck so no truss rod adjustment was needed. Saddle and nut needed filing as I left the heaviest gauge on
Malmsteen and Iommi both use 8's which they think is the Best String Gauge for Metal tuning, Malmsteen tunes to E flat and Iommi drop C....there is allot of argument here but I am not prepared to argue as I don't give a fuck...but just saying.
Some people claim that the lighter guages are better in the context of a full band mix as you do not need the extra bass frequencies gained from heavier guages when you have a Bass guitar to handle the bass end. 😘 Makes sense, as "Like frequencies just cancel each other out" anyway.
Super slinky's cuz can use for solos aswell as getting that heavy sound it's about the effects for beginners and experts read down abit it might help you get the sound you want just be prepared music production isn't easy and isn't cheap guys one thing I know is don't go too cheap on the gear quality gear equals quality sound for a interface the focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or if you want a serious one go with the i6 effects also will need to get a looper can be used as a Killswitch aswell best amps are marshall Hugh's and kettner orange fender Laney is okay aswell vox vintage models and for modulator amps I'd go line 6 spider or the Peavey vypyr vip 3 is good for metal or blues or reggae and rock then you do want a outboard compressor equalizer effects processor and de esseser maybe a multi band noise gate aswell and number one is a decent power supply and possibly a patchbay you also need a mixer studio monitors amplifier microphones alot of them too drum kit bass piano midi is best can use as drumpad too and everyone I suggest go for Ibanez Floyd rose guitar they take ages to go out of tune and are great sounding but the reason I'm naming certain things and not others is you gotta decide what sound suits you I'm naming some of the gear I use you will want different things to me
really appreciate the time and money invested into making this video
Thanks. Just what I needed to know for those A and B standard tunings.
Helped me right when I needed it! My guitar is off to the mechanic to get some bones installed. I also wanted to go down with the tuning and this short and precise explinations and sound-examples helped me alot without going through the trouble of testing several stringsets myselve.
Big Thanks and Heavy Greetz
Every question I ask, you already have a video for. honestly would be lost without this channel.
Choosing strings is a very subjective matter, but I've tried so many heavy sets over the past few years, I thought I'd share my own findings and preference.
For D or C# standard, regular 11-52 sets from any string vendor work great for me, but I've also had a lovely time with the balanced tension sets from D'Addario, and the occasional 10-52 set.
For lower tunings (C standard or lower) I like the D'addarios EXL158 (13-62 with wound 3rd) and EXL148 (12-60 with plain 3rd as featured in the video), and the Ernie Ball 2214 "Mammoth Slinky" (12-62 with wound 3rd).
One thing to consider is that a very heavy plain string can cause big issues with intonation on a standard scale guitar - especially a Gibson scale where the saddles on the bridge physically can't go far enough back to compensate. Not to mention that to me they just sound and feel weird, very "clanky" with little sustain. I had a bad experience with Ernie Ball "Beefy Slinkies", so now I actively avoid anything with a 22 or 24 plain 3rd.
Could 10-46 tune to Drop C?
@@muhammadaliffauzan2820 I wouldn't recommend it, that low C string will have too little tension to be confortable to play. If you have a guitar with those strings installed, you can try it right away to see what I mean.
@@muhammadaliffauzan2820 try the Power Slinky's.. they're 11-48.. super comfortable in drop C if you like easy bends and still tight enough for good pick control..
Yeah I don't like anything over 22 on the 3rd my main guitar is in drop c with an 15 in the 3rd but could probably bring it up as to have 10-56 I'm left with a 12 on the 2nd which isn't equal tension to the 10 1st and 3rd string. It could be a better set for drop D which I think I was in originally but I love drop C a lot more.
@@Rockerrobin If you want that 56 for your lowest string and don't mind a little bit of extra tension on the top strings you could try the D'addario EXL117 set. Although I personally would usually just pick 11-52 for that tuning and deal with the slightly floppy low C.
I'm using Michael Amott's Sig set 11-59(D standard, 24.75 scale )and it's pretty good for getting back into guitar, but when my fingers are stronger I will probably use 12-62 or something along these lines.
I don't usually play in Standard tuning, but if I ever wanted to, for a 25.5 scale length I like to use hybrid 9-46 with the 11 gauge B string replaced with a 12 (just feels more right). I usually play in C# tuning and I use 11-54s and they feel great and I can bend easily.
It all depends on your style i think. I used to use power slinkys dropped to standard B and Drop A. I was on a floyd rose bridge. The string were a little loose but I actually really liked the feel. Never had any major tuning issues.
I usually run 11-49 or 10-52 on C standard or lower. But I’ve had excellent results with 9-42 on drop C#. Sounds every bit as brutal as my heavier gauges. Just buy a bunch of different gauges and experiment. That’s the best way to find your ultimate set up. You may be surprised. And you may find a new set of strings that kick major ass that you would’ve never considered. I agree that generally heavier gauge for lower tunings is best. But you may find 9-42 or 10-46 will work better than you thought. Keep in mind, if your nut is cut for a smaller gauge and you stick heavier strings on , they may not work all that great. And vice versa. Could get some buzzing sticking lighter gauge strings in a nut slot that’s been bored out by huge strings. Unless of course you got a Floyd. Then it’s not much of and issue except spring claw tension may need to be adjusted. I typically won’t run anything heavier than a 52 unless on a 7 string. But any heavier than that, might as well pick up a short scale 6 string bass 😂. Baritone being the exception. 👊🏻
Don't you have issues with string tension using such thin strings for down tuning?
Heaviest strings I ever bought were the misfits ones an jesus christ they were like using base strings
I use Ernie ball burly slinky 11-52 for c standard great video by the way! love that riff you were playing 🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘
11-56 for D standard - Drop C for me all the way. throw a 56-60 on the bottom if you want extra heavy chugs. My 7-string usually works best with 10-62 for B standard and Drop A
I use 11 to 54 from DR strings for D standard and drop C and they work absolutely amazing for that tuning. Otherwise for D# or E standard I just use 11 to 52, I like the tone of an 11 gauge.
Dude, this was super informative, as per usual. You've really helped me not only with my playing but my general understanding of the instrument itself - I'm still a fucking noob, but you've brought me a long way. Thanks for everything, my man.
PS - A Standard, woof. Approaching brown note territory, haha.
My pleasure bro!
I’ve been using Dunlop heavy cores for years, personally they feel the best for me but I do like the Daddario nyxls they are really nice too
Same here. Love the heavy cores but recently have been using Daddario XT. 10-52. They have been really nice. Just trying out the James Hetfield Master cores and those are pretty sweet too.
12-60 are actually very nice for C std tuning they feel similar to 10-46 in E std this what Sammy Duet used in C I believe
"Let's find out" isn't that Varg's thing?😂
it used to be, back in the day when his YT channel existed
@@ferzummusic984 ye ik
Dead dead on the bed
@@ferzummusic984 :) Varg used to put III Reich propaganda in his videos and called that history.
Simon actually coined this phrase even before varg made videos
I've just recently switched my string gauges because of my tendinites. I'm doing 10-52 on D standard and it works great even for drop C (I used to go 11-56 on those tunings and now it's a good option for C Standard or drop B). The 12-60 is perfect for B/drop A in my opinion, as long as you play 25,5' scale guitars due to intonation issues.
Would you think you could go for a drop G on a 12-60?
Cheers.
I'd recommend Ernie Ball Mammoth Slinky for Drop G but you might want to invest in a 7 string instead as it will hold that tuning so much better (Baritone is also a very good option ^_^)
2:39 I just realized after over a decade, I’ve always had my amplifier connection wire backwards 🤣
For Drop D i use the 11-48 Power Slinky's, for Drop C# and C# std, the 11-54 Beefy Slinky's, and for C standard; the 12-56 Not Even Slinky, although I've been replacing the 24 plain 3rd with a 26 wound 3rd.
That's on a 25.5" scale, BTW. For B std or Bb std, I prefer a 26.5"; either as a 6 or 7 string. A ton of 7's are 26.5", but it's difficult to find a 6 in 26.5". (*) For A standard or Drop G; get a 27.7" baritone.
(* trivia: Kenny Hickey of Type O Negative played 12-56 "Not Even Slinky" on a custom 26.5" scale in B standard.)
Ernie ball are going to do a new 12-56 with a 22w instead of the 24p. I usually replaced the 24p with a 24w so the 22w might be a tad floppy but no need to buy single strings so there's that
@@sopadeloro6460 Yeah, i saw their new "Magnum Slinky" pack but a 22w is a replacement for a 20p, not a 24p. you go up a size to keep the same tension, not down. The only thing i can think is that maybe it's a way to not have to change the intonation of the 3rd? I have to assume Ernie Ball knows what they're doing, but i've been basing my string gauges off D'Addario (their jazz sets with wound 3rd), who I also have to assume knows what they're doing. So... *shrug* ?
I use 10s in D standard at first, when they are new, they sounds very warm and soft, then retune them to E standard)
On another guitar i use 12s in B standard when they are new and while they are getting old i change tuning to C and C#. But dude, that 3rd string, it's a bit thick and sounds muddy in clean. Don't you find?
Excellent video! I would like to change my strings to the not even slinky gauge for c standard tuning, I have a Jackson js22 do I need to make any changes to the nut or anything or can I just put the strings on? Thanks for all the awesome content :)
Awesome and informative video; thanks a lot for this. Also props to keeping the 'let's find out' alive; someone's gotta do it!
Perfect timing for this video as i was looking what type of strings should i use to emulate Chuck Schuldiner - Death tone. Kinda late aswell since i just picked my guitar from the shop, they did a setup for me and the guy working there suggested to switch to 10 gauge strings, so thats what i got. Am i good with this?
L Schmal I have a very similar chuck tone and I use “power slinky”. But I know chuck used ghs boomers 9s on his stealth.
I think that 10 gauge is just perfect for D standard tuning.
I like D'Addario exl140 10-52 for everything. I don't tune lower than c standard though.
Thank you for the lesson
Power slinky’s are my fav but everyone has their own preferences I just like the tones I get from those because I like switching between heavy and acoustic
Those are all still super thin for that short scale length, honestly. I use 52 for standard E on 25.5, and I go up from there on both guage and scale length to get as low as needed, to 80 on a 29" guitar for drop E. Every time you go thicker and/or longer, you gain definition and note stability. I have arthritis in my hands and it is still worth it.
Cheers for the benchmarks, be interesting to see you try a line 6 Variax Shuriken with power slinkys and tuning digitally controlled.
How is the guitar affected going from 10-46 standard tuning to 11-52 in drop c?
I don’t know much about it. I’ve read online that changing string gauge can affect nut (not enough room for bigger strings), intonation, action, overall tension, etc.
I used a string tension calculator online and found the best set of strings to go from 10-46 e standard to drop c would be 11-52 or 11-54 (11-52 was closest to match overall string tension). Any suggestions??
With 10-46 you can go drop c.. and it will easy for the fingers to play the instrument
Could easily play in A and even drop the A to drop G with the not 12-60 with no prob at all! I played in several doom band who played in A standard drop to G and G standard dropped to drop F#! Playing in B standard I used 10-54, and even tune to drop Bflat. A# standard/B flat with 10-54 I think is the most versatile. Play anything from Sabbath, Sleep, Electric Wizard, Acid King, Down, Nails, to Mastodon, the Sword, and eyehategod. It’s just a really versatile set up to get an array of doom/sludge styles! Keeps decent tension but has the looseness to get that low warble on the E string. Maybe throw in a slight curve and use 4 wound strings instead of three but very rarely. Cool Video ma’man!!
I use .013 and .72 Ernie ball Super slinky baritone strings for drop a and below and I occasionally go up to drop B and they work fine
I use 12-56 for D standard on 24,75 scale. Work the best for me, have nice attack with that meat in sound
That's what I was thinking of using for the same scale length guitar. Do you find that you need to sand down the nut for that gauge?
@@megadesu69 I had problem with 6th string but it took me about 5min to do, every other sits ok but im thinking about new nut cuz now i have factory plastic one
I’ve been using the Power slinky’s for Drop D tuning, I’ve had them for about a year now (definitely need to be changed) but they are still reliable for drop tuning to D or C sharp
Hello Simon, my guitar was always in E standart tunig, a few days ago I tried to go down to regular C tunig and the strings are all loose, without tension. I tried to adjust it on the back of the guitar, giving more tightness to the screws, but whenever I do that the strings go up a few tones, I go back down the strings to C tunign and the strings are again tensionless and impossible to play. Can you help making a video on how to adjust guitars that has bridge? Thanks
Do you have a floyd rose guitar? If that's the case, you can simply search up how to block your floating bridge, and that'll spare you from a lot of issues while tuning and changing strings
You needed higher gauge. That’s how you get more tension.
Cool video. Just bought some burly slinky 11-52. Going to mess around and see how low I can tune to comfortably. Damn katatonia.
It depends what tunings I’m using. If I’m using D standard/Drop C, I’ll use 10-56 (10-18 and 32-56), currently having one of my guitars in 11-60 (11-18 and 36,48 and 60) which between C standard, Drop B and Drop A#.
Previously on the same guitar, I had 13-70 (13-48 (w/a 26w) and 70 for the low B string), which I used between A# standard and G# Standard. All this is on a Floyd mind you. Decided I want to go back to last mentioned tunings, so I bought a Daddario 14-68 gauge set which should work nicely, thick but not overly heavy. Only thing I’m slightly concerned about is the 18 and the 14 gauges (which in A# standard are tuned to F and A# respectively) and how much I’m going to be able to bend them, plus on a Floyd Rose. Oh and when it comes to using a lower tuning (C standard or lower) , Wound G strings are a must have. Again, hopefully these 14-68’s serve me well. For the low string, anything below B I generally prefer to use a low 60s or even a 70 gauge string.
Are you able to still tune up to standerd
brivdon which gauge?
I dunno if I just got bad batches but I had a problem with the power slinkies breaking. They definitely had more chunk but yeah, they just broke all the time. Maybe I was tuned too high. 🤷♂️ Ernie Ball's are typically really good though. How do you like the M-STEEL series? Those are my favorites.
Спасибо тебе мужик, я знал что Эрни Болл классные струны, но с дуру взял дадарио(
Теперь буду использовать Эрни Болл
Не помню, есть ли у Д'Аддарио полностью стальные струны, но струны с никелевой обмоткой - из-за отличной от стали электропроводности никеля - дают более мягкий, мелодичный звук, который больше подходит для акустических гитар (и подходит офигенно) и слабого перегруза, и меньше для сильного перегруза. Сам по этой причине когда-то соскочил на *ghs boomers*, на 25.5 дюймах .11-.53 звучат очень плотно в стандартном D, Db или дроп C.
Excellent video, and how about 10 - 58 for D standard in strat length??
Way different sounds with different strings. Lower tuning/thicker strings seems to work great. Bb was very evile/scary sounding down there. I'm going to a "Bigfoot" channel now.
9:16 Jim Root has entered the chat
It’s all personal preference I guess. I don’t like light strings, considering going up to 12’s for drop C now, with a 60 on the bottom. Thanks for the video!
It may be my phone speakers. But the not even slinky sounded amazing tone wise
Thanks for the vid, man!
All best!
List of strings so you can see the difference right away
3:00 Regular Slinky in D
4:05 Regular Slinky in C
5:36 Power Slinky in D
6:21 Power Slinky in C
7:51 Not-even slinky in C
9:15 Not-even Slinky in Bb
10:17 EXL In Bb
11:13 EXL In A
Thanks
I like the high tension, using a set of 56-13 set in C# Standard on my guitar. Bends are more difficult to do than in C and B Standard tuning but that's the trade-off for longer sustain.
The EXL148 set that's featured in the video is pretty great for C# is you like high tension. I've been using that lately.
@@SteelSkin667 I could give it a try if my current strings start to wear. I found the 54-12 set a bit floppy, especially string 1 to 3, because I pick quite hard (maybe I have no picking discipline).
I found I like tuning a half step higher (F Standard) when I first played with 46-10 set, so I got used to playing with a higher tension.
@@3xclu5iveOfficial By strings 1 to 3 do you mean the trebles or bass ones?
If you want to go down in gauges for easier playability but find that the strings hit the fretboard, you should consider raising the action of your guitar to give more room for the strings to vibrate. That's what I do.
The important thing is that you don't hurt yourself.
@@SteelSkin667 the treble strings. Also I might raise the action if it helps with the strings not hitting the fretboard, since these strings can do B Standard tuning.
@@3xclu5iveOfficial Raising the action really helps if you are a bit heavy-handed, also adjusting the truss rod so that there is a bit of relief in the neck. It doesn't need to be super high to make a big difference.
You mentioned you locked down your bridge? How did you do it? So you have video about it?
I’m using the not even slinky superb stuff just found out cobalt are beyond that didn’t see these in local store here but will search !
E standard 10-52 / Drop D 10-56 D# Standard 10-52 / Drop C# 11-60 / D standard 11-56 / Drop C 13-62 / C# Standard 11-60 / Drop B 14-64 / C standard 13-62 / Drop A# 14-64 that’s how I roll... any lower just get a 7 string
nope.
Thanks for video. But still no answer what gauge will be perfect for 7 string A standard.
Me neeedz to play zom KoRn.
Normal 11s (-49) do everything from standard to any drop. If you use a Tele with a 4 way switch you can do any genre on earth with that guage because the Tele neck holds tension better and the 4 way gives you a humbucker of sorts in 4th for high gain. So anything from Jazz to Doom Metal is yours without having to change guitar or strings. Where as 13s would be to heavy when you switch back to clean for a bluesy riff with bends. The tele with 11s and a 4 way switch is the truth!
That prs is gorgeous
String gauge for open G or open A for regular 6 string electric guitar ? Kindly let me know
I've been D Adario light top heavy bottom for D standard tuning. I always need the low strings thicker than a standard gage set has. The ones I use are 10 to 52. I'd prefer like a 10.5 to a 55 and I see here Ernie Ball doesn't have that either.
What kind of chair is that? I need one with fold-up armrests.
Comes to a guitar string video. Asks about the chair hahaha
LordOgar36 So what?
@@POOKIE5592 Oh I'd like to know too haha
Strings are really subjective indeed, I have a guitar specifically for metal, that is setup in D standard with 12-56s (Not Even Slinky by EB) and I can comfortably drop it down to even B standard (25.5 scale). It is a workout to play in D with those but they sound incredible imo, really savage
Just got some regular 10-46 gauge strings from my fender strat . Haven't played using this gauge in a while and I forgot how much it just doesnt have he right tone I'm looking for when it comes to metal.
What song were you playing when you demo'd them? More specifically the riff at 3:12, 4:18, 5:48 among others.
Just something I made up
@@SimonSmithGuitar christ you should make that a song
Thank you!!!
Thank you for this video 🤘🏽
my cat like to see you playing guitar mr. simon hahah \m/
Useful video, thanks
I bought beefy slinky for standard Tuning, it is fine for fifths but when I want to solo, and bend on the first three strings, they are so tight, I can't bend ez, what do you recommend me?
Go down. Like a 10s or 9s regular slinky or sometjing like that
I use 9-46 on a telecaster tuned to standard for metal.
i use 9-42 super slinky i start with 11 and use 56 to end(individual buy) Drop B Charvel DK guitar
did you do some set up and action after restrung ?
coz as far as I know different string gauges means different set up and different action
this guys voice 👌
Hi Simon, I have a kinda long question for you, I hope you have a couple of minutes to answer me. I'd like to buy a guitar for my heavier sounding needs that is more or less Strat-shaped but does NOT sound like a Strat. I checked out both Ibanez AZ2402 and Ibanez MM1, and even though they are exceptional guitars, their sound is pretty reminiscent to a HH Strat on steroids. You can clearly hear that mid-range focused sound. I don't want that, since I already have that kind of sound (more or less) on my American Deluxe HSS.
I'd like something that, just to make the simplest possible example, sounds more like a Les Paul than a Strat. Fuller, bigger, more ballsy. I think the huge and full sound it's more a body mass thing than pickups and other factors. I have tried an Ibanez Jem and that thing sounds incredibly HUGE and monstruous (it's more massive than a strat), but I hate both Floyd Roses and Wizard necks.
Someone suggested me a ESP Horizon III, that should check all marks... except I don't like it too much aesthetically. What guitars come to your mind that can suit my needs? For example, what about a S2 Singlecut (even if it's not strat-shaped it has very easy access to upper frets)? Or... any other that you think can be a valid option (best of all if it's hardtail too and NO wizard necks). THANKS!
Hi mate. Definitely try the S2 Single Cut and the S2 Custom 22. You can easily lock the bridge down on the custom.
@@SimonSmithGuitar thanks a lot! I suspected the S2 was the right one to do the trick. I'll try one!
@@DavidRFIT You definitely should mate
@@SimonSmithGuitar one very last thing and I'm outta here, I promise! I didn't get if in your opinion S2 Singlecut and S2 Standard 22 sounds exactly as beefy and full OR the Singlecut has the edge. Thanks again
What is the best for drop b? I just ordered Dunlop Heavy Core Heaviest for my guitar because i wanna play Slipknot stuff. Did i make a good choice and if not what should i use?
Just in general, When you're in the drop b range you should use a thicker string type (Like 11s or 12s) But be careful on the guitar you use the strings on, you might need to have the neck truss rod adjusted
@@camilob.9542 thanks
Can I put thicker gauge strings on ibanez micro I know it's not a great guitar but can I and what string gauge do u recommend for set ty
hello. What strings do you think would fit the Ibanez Rgir20fe in drop B? I'm confused(
i want to play progressive metal
Can you do a lesson on Dismember - Dreaming In Red
or Lucifugum - the mysterious garden please? It would be appreciated
What gauges would you recommend for D standard/Drop C on a 26.6 scale guitar? 🙂
I wouldn't recommend D on a 26.5. If you do a lighter string gauge would be appropriate. Standard tuning for that scale length is B......27" is also B , 28" A and so on.
You can do D Standard on a 26.5 scale easily. I would recommend trying lighter strings, though.
10-46 or 11-48 should do the trick. For Drop C, I would recommend replacing the last string with a 52 or 54.
thank you so much !
Hey there, I just had a question. I have a les Paul epiphone, it's like a black beauty and I play in drop c#. I also enjoy doing my squeals and pinch harmonics lol. What ernie strings would you recommend?
Use Ernie Ball Beefy Slinky's
In my opinion 11-48 are great for c#
I use 11 54 for e standqrd tuning on 25.5 inch guitar
Good info thanks
I use [10-52] for drop D. I don't know but for my guitar set they works better then others
13-56 for standard tunings from Eb - C#
And 14-68 for A - B standards
Scales are 24” - 24.75” - 25.5”
All D’Addario, all wound thirds, all six string guitars.
Experimentation is key.
I basically tune as if it’s a baritone; in fact my 14-68 sets are baritone strings.
You put 14-68 gauges on your regular electric guitar?
@@jadab.8255
Indeed. I’ve had my 1965 Mustang and Les Paul strung with 14-68 tuned in A for a couple of years now.
Before doing so I calculate the pounds per string for the tuning I want and so it’s perfectly safe. Intonation is quite good.
The only thing that needs “modification” is the nut; but that is standard procedure for any string gauge increase.
Overall the guitars sound fcking brilliant. They are Doom, drone, sludge metal machines!
I think that 10-54 is the most versatile for all tunings
That monster on drop Bb flat using that not even slinky 012
best D standard string gauge : SIT 010.5-048 or Ernieball 010.5-048
Very helpful 👍
Can I use not even slinky to standard tuning?
did you have to adjust your intonation or truss rod when switching string gauges?
On the thickest sets I had to adjust the intonation, but it's a thick neck so no truss rod adjustment was needed. Saddle and nut needed filing as I left the heaviest gauge on
@@SimonSmithGuitar awesome! thanks for the quick reply Simon! love the videos man!
Nickel or stainless steel strings?
Malmsteen and Iommi both use 8's which they think is the Best String Gauge for Metal tuning, Malmsteen tunes to E flat and Iommi drop C....there is allot of argument here but I am not prepared to argue as I don't give a fuck...but just saying.
Some people claim that the lighter guages are better in the context of a full band mix as you do not need the extra bass frequencies gained from heavier guages when you have a Bass guitar to handle the bass end. 😘
Makes sense, as "Like frequencies just cancel each other out" anyway.
@@narayanacooper8571 Exactly only a musician would know that. Thanks.
Are those nickel wound exls available in 7 string?
super cool master simon gracias por la recomendacion when you can pickups active or passive Greetings from Venezuela
How do the Laney HH speakers sound compared to the V30?
3:02 ❤️🤘🏻
Cool. The end was a little bit fast :-)
Try the new Mammoth Slinky from Ernie Ball! Works great for Drop B
Ok cool!
Im a beginner so sorry if this question is stupid but what was the name of the rift you were playing while testing
I think that’s what a rift is anyway 😭
Hi mate. The riff is just something I made up. Cheers 🤘🤘
Super slinky's cuz can use for solos aswell as getting that heavy sound it's about the effects for beginners and experts read down abit it might help you get the sound you want just be prepared music production isn't easy and isn't cheap guys one thing I know is don't go too cheap on the gear quality gear equals quality sound for a interface the focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or if you want a serious one go with the i6 effects also will need to get a looper can be used as a Killswitch aswell best amps are marshall Hugh's and kettner orange fender Laney is okay aswell vox vintage models and for modulator amps I'd go line 6 spider or the Peavey vypyr vip 3 is good for metal or blues or reggae and rock then you do want a outboard compressor equalizer effects processor and de esseser maybe a multi band noise gate aswell and number one is a decent power supply and possibly a patchbay you also need a mixer studio monitors amplifier microphones alot of them too drum kit bass piano midi is best can use as drumpad too and everyone I suggest go for Ibanez Floyd rose guitar they take ages to go out of tune and are great sounding but the reason I'm naming certain things and not others is you gotta decide what sound suits you I'm naming some of the gear I use you will want different things to me
What song is that black metal riff from?
Before you tuned down to B flat the not even slinky sounded so bad ass
let s find out!!!!!
3:10 anyone know what song that was? Sounded sick