Why I NEVER Use ELIXIR Coated Guitar Strings
Вставка
- Опубліковано 19 лют 2017
- An installation of an under saddle piezo turns into a classic case of why I'll NEVER use Elixir Polyweb or Nanoweb coated guitar strings. Just listen to that string buzz! These strings were not fake - bought at Sweetwater. These strings were NOT old. The player used them for two practices and one gig before this. I have NOT yet tried the new Elixir Optiweb, but I'm open minded.
---------------------------------
WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL:
♠Stand in the Middle of the Street Naked Screaming "LONG LIVE THE GUITOLOGIST"!
OR
♠Send an unwanted piece of gear or send a small tip via Paypal: bradlinzy@gmail.com
Thanks for your support!
♠STUFF I USE
-5A Variac: amzn.to/2FNWthU
-Jameco Isolation Transformer: amzn.to/2PRv1Fa
-Fluke 87: amzn.to/2DwHjvr
-Yotec 936 Soldering Station: bit.ly/2JqB1Vw
-Sealody SSA51 soldering station: amzn.to/2DJTS7P
-Black and Decker Heat Gun: amzn.to/2DWpDhr
-Geekcreit® LCR-T4 Mega328 Transistor Tester bit.ly/2J9uLSA
-HT02 Handheld Infrared Thermal Camera bit.ly/2LXfLoD
-Solderless Breadboard: bit.ly/2stkVAq
-Breadboard Jumper Wires: bit.ly/2JowaEh
-Geekcreit® XR2206 Function Signal Generator DIY Kit bit.ly/2LYBvkb
-Contact Cleaner: amzn.to/2FVitro
-Deoxit Fader Cleaner: amzn.to/2LPwtsE
♠RECORDING
-JVC Everio Camcorder amzn.to/2RLIleU
-Andonstar USB Microscope: bit.ly/2q8QIWz
-Articulated Boom Arm with Cam Mount: amzn.to/2Hlo2AX
-Shure Beta 87A amzn.to/2rNPnoW
-EV 635A Omnidirectional Dynamic Mic amzn.to/2pR8HQT
♠BOOKS
-RCA TUBE MANUAL amzn.to/2GOBVqS
-DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF TUBE AMPLIFIERS: amzn.to/2HSNMne
-Designing Tube Preamps for Guitar and Bass: amzn.to/2DK5tmt
♠2006 FENDER AMERICAN STD TELECASTER PICKUPS
-TV Jones Magnatron Neck: amzn.to/2q1zQjD
-Seymour Duncan Vintage Stacked Bridge: amzn.to/2GyZjrK - Наука та технологія
POSTSCRIPT NOTES! PLEASE READ BEFORE COMMENTING...
Wow! Lots of comments overnight on this one. I like that! People are passionate about their strings, clearly. I'll try to answer a few of the comments here in a sticky comment, rather than repeating myself a lot. First, different people clearly have different chemicals and pH in their sweat and hand oils. I know this to be true because I can play a set of regular, uncoated strings for a year or more, especially on electric, without them demanding to be changed. My friend, Kevin, can pick up my guitar and play it ONE TIME and within a couple hours, the strings will be completely dead and rusted where he played. Crazy but true! So I totally understand others are not going to experience the same cost/benefit analysis as someone like me.
Also, some people play differently, with a more aggressive style than others. My buddy, for instance, plays heavy blues and uses that G string a LOT for bending and aggressive vibrato. It's an element of that style of music and one CANNOT play that style without damaging these strings in one gig. It just isn't going to happen. I share some similarities in my playing with my friend, so these strings are OUT for me on that basis as well. Others might play more of a flatpicking, folk style, or stick to rhythm with cowboy chords mainly, so for this style, it's more likely to experience coating fraying in the area where one picks with a plectrum before seeing the kind of wear on these strings. Many of you have noticed I do not normally use a plectrum, so I never have the problem of coated strings fraying in the picking area above the sound hole.
As always, to each his own. Everyone should use what works for THEM. What works for me isn't necessarily what will work for YOU. This is why celebrity endorsements generally, and especially when it comes to strings, do not impress me. Good advice from experienced individuals who have been playing a long time can be helpful, but they're still likely to only be able to tell you what works for THEM, not what will work for you. That is why the title of this video is "Why *I* Never Use ELIXIR Coated Guitar Strings". ;)
Thanks for watching, y'all. Love the comments!
PS: These strings were not fakes either, as many have suggested. They were purchased through Sweetwater.
The Guitologist The black coated strings are junk too!They look nice for about a week then it's gap/ frayed section city!
Just don't like you taking a cheap shot at the best brand in the business over a defective string. I could also tell the very different tale of what happens when someone who, like me, plays 4-6 hours a night, does NOT use coated strings, what's left of fingernails and calouses when he switched to a non-coated Austrian brand for 2 days. It was months before the nails fully recovered. But if you'd made your claim about coated strings in general you wouldn't have gotten the same reaction, huh? Bye Done with you and your hack antics.
This is a post I'll agree with. Christopher Robin was endorsed by those Black Diamond coateds and they sent me a box of them trying to get me to endorse them. One 2 hour show and they were peeling off all over. But Elixers and such are not the same thing. THe blacks are vinyl coating. Elixirs aren't junk, not at all. That was just a defective string (or something on the guitar causing it.). Before I'd go disparaging the best brand in the business, I'd take some 0000 steel wool to the entire neck and polish them a bit, then replace the string. Then again, I'm not on here to get ratings on UA-cam.
Someone is seriously butt hurt over someone else's opinion about string choice. Jesus, I'd hate to see what happens to you when the reason for your distress actually matters.
You just keep on believing you matter that much to me (or most anyone else.) It's not a matter of "butthurt." You're making disparaging remarks without valid basis. Blow your own horn on things you do instead of tryingt to tear others down and you won't have to worry about it anymore.
The #1 guitar maker in this nation -- on guitars over $500 -- is Taylor. They have chosen to use Elixirs, when they could have used anyone's coated strings. That wasn't an accident, nor was it political. (They're certainly not going to tarnish their reputation on guitars that cost thousands of dollars over a $12-15 set of strings.) So maybe you just need to get over your delusions of grandeur. I'm sure there is something you're actually good at -- something original. Everyone would be better served if you were to show that off rather than trying to tear down a product that is used so broadly with such overwhelming success.
Now, if it's all the same to you, I've got several better things to do, so could you find it in your heart to let it go already? I'll even let you have the last word, if it'll make you feel better.
answer: get a new pack strings
i only use elixirs and this has never happened. this is just negligence with string changes.
Scott Seigel according to the description, he states the strings were not old
agree. never had this happen in 2 years of using elixr. i figure these strings are just old.
I use Elixir
I use Elixir strings and never had fraying over the frets. Fraying has occurred where I use a plectrum, but without buzzing. If I were to get string buzz from Elixir strings then I'd stop using them.
I've only gotten fraying after a week or so of picking. Doesn't hurt anything
Simply replace the old Elixirs with new Elixirs. Problem solved. I've been using them for years and they last about 5 times longer than regular strings. Sure they fray- when they get old just like any brand will have issues when they get old.
This set of strings was not old. He bought them less than a week before this vid was made and had used them for two practices and one acoustic gig. He invested in Elixirs because he's a working musician who is not wealthy and was looking for a return on investment. Elixir Polyweb was clearly a poor choice if ROI was the goal.
Elixir strings usually last me about 15 hours of total play time, electric or acoustic (roughly (3) 3 hour gigs plus some practicing at home). That's about 10 hours longer than non coated strings for me. Sure they fray after several hours but they still sound great for many more hours. I swear by Elixirs, I've been using them exclusively for since they came 15 or so years ago. A great investment and a quality product.
Also, don't bend a wound third string with ANY brand of string, that's just dumb. I put an unwound third on all the acoustics that i need to bend on. Wound strings were not meant to be bent, everyone knows that. This bashing the Elixir brand is completely needless and unwarranted.
+Bill Jagitsch haha don't bend a wound string...so much for vibrato huh? never heard that before. you need to use vibrato on every string especially when soloing. people please don't listen to this guy^^^
+max makin so u don't bend the string at all with vibrato....hmm you must suck
I've been playing since 1974.
I started using Elixiir Strings for acoustic, about a year ago.
Absolutely the best strings I've ever seen.
Ikr
ua-cam.com/video/aHVGMpnpu_w/v-deo.html review
...You call yourself a "guitologist" and don't know enough to recognize worn out strings?...
Allan Jollie good lord...
right but this cant happen ever with normal strings. I play every day, my strings are fine + i honestly cant recall the last string changes on either guitar. years. gigging is different but all the more reason u dont want the possibility of the strings wearing in this way.
Or fret+neck issues. Ridiculous
Those frets are in horrible shape. Those strings should not be re-used after going through the trouble of modding a guitar. Blaming Elixir is not to be taken lightly, because two other folks have more to do with this condition. The owner of that guitar, and the guy that did not change the strings after working on it. Incredible.
that's what I first was looking at. how are those frets....oh heck, no wonder the strings are all tore up. someone flatten the frets and didn't do hardly anything to dress them proper. terrible.
"Blaming Elixir is not to be taken lightly" - settle down, he's not threatening legal action.
Yet.
Ha ha ha that would be just rich wouldn't it!
Basement Bob exactly, they are old and knackered.
465marko lol
I've played and toured with Elixir's for over ten years and love them. I try new ones but I always come back to Elixirs.
Worst sounding string ever. Sounds like wibrating metal pole
@@matrixarsmusicworkshop561 Probably doing something wrong then lmao.
@@analogaudiorules1724 haha i don't think so... But it may be that I'm talking bout electric guitar strings... I only would guess how bad acoustic ones are
@@matrixarsmusicworkshop561 They definitely have a kinda chubby plucky tone that is more prevalent on the lower strings. I don't really mind it. It kinda helps for fingerstyle as it doesn't sound quite as washed out. I think I'll keep using them because I like the feel.
@@dogboy0912 No, they just sound terrible. Like hitting a metal pipe with a metal pipe lol
Been using Elixirs for years- change em approx 2-3x per year. Stage work, non-coated, practise serveral hours per day, NEVER any issues with Elixirs. Yep, fan of them. Great feel too.
You still telling lies?
Same. Elixirs are great.
I used Elixir strings on my acoustic guitars until I started to notice that my "body chemistry" broke them down really fast. I don't, and haven't, had that issue with D'Addario strings.
I have been using Elixirs since 2005. I've had a set of Elixir on a 1970 Martin D-41. I bought it in 1971 and it has been my go-to instrument. Currently, the strings on it are about 1.5 years old and sound great, even in performance. Many of my friends who have played it on stage or just at a jam, can't understand why they sound as good as they do after hours of playing. These were introduced to me when I had a neck reset. They were recommended by the Martin Trained local tech, and I have never looked back. My hands sweat ACID and IO would kill a set of GHS Pro Formula, D'addario, and Martin Branded strings. 17 years experience, the freaking pandemic, Lockdown at home, I was playing for myself, so I didn't care how old they were, I didn't have money to buy ANY strings, so I just used my last set. They still sound great. The strings on THAT guitar are beyond old! Give him a set of D'addario coated strings, N EW strings!
I respect your comment about Elixir strings, but I have no such experience!@
I play aggressively. Hands sweat a lot. I tear up string s elixirs. Never have this issue. They out last all strings. They have different versions. Polyweb is better than nano web … his video is bs
I’ve got an acoustic w elixirs that are at least 4 years old and aren’t fraying like that. Been using elixirs for 20 years. One mishap like this won’t change my mind. None of my guitars have this issue
file and polish the frets goddammit! No wonder the coating cracks on those sharp and uneven frets.
Lars Nilsson
Indeed,try refreting
Hi, Brad. I have been using the Nanowebs for years and have never seen this until my current set. I gig 2 to 3 times a week and change my strings once at the beginning of summer and once at the onset of winter. I play solo acoustic. My current guitar is a new Yamaha. I will be curious to see if this problem continues on this guitar (maybe the newer frets are sharper) or if Elixir made some changes in the manufacturing process or materials. I enjoy your videos!
this guy took off strings to mod a guitar and then put the same strings back on?
Same dirty underwear’s 🤢🤢🤮
That is funny he did that.
@@socco445 I done that
If you had a brain youd probably realize alot of these channels dont put new strings on
@@im-pro-at-skyrim8285 Ok Scarecrow
If ever you take strings off, put new ones back on. No problems then.
Been using elixirs for years and I have never seen them fray like that before. How old are those strings!
He wrote on another comment that these strings were less than a week old.
Less than a week. The player is an aggressive (and accomplished) blues player. He attacks his strings and obviously bends a lot on the G-string. The problem is a known issue I've seen many times in the past.
Use an unwound G string if you like to bend. The problem is not the brand of string ;)
The Guitologist dude I play heavy blues and metal sat with my guitar for hours in weeks and never had this happen I call bullshit or those frets suck been using elixir for ten years now and never had this happen
Let me play ONE pass of Classical Gas after I just cut my fingernails. You'll need a string change.
I havent had any trouble with elixir srings yet. Have 4 electric guitars. I know there is a special pack for acoustic guitars, dunno if that is the problem?
I've used elixr strings for about 7 years now on pretty much all my electric and acoustic guitars (over 30 between my dad and I). I can honestly say I've never had this issue or an issue like this at any point. I know people bitch about coated strings but I never realised it was about issues such as this.
I Know Brad personally and he is a solid guy that gives his opinion if you don't like it I get that but no reason for you to have a hissy fit over it.
I am a guitar tech as well and I see Elixer string split and fray all the time on electrics and acoustic guitars.
Over 20 years of guitar repair so I have no reason to lie and I'm not tied to any string company so I'm just giving my opinion.
If you like the strings use em' I don't care.
yeah, usually it's that they sound "dead"...that's the main complaint I hear about coated strings. I have used Elixirs almost exclusively for the last 7-8 years myself and I think I have had no more than 3 strings have that happen from all the sets I've used. It can happen, but not a reason to talk badly about a company. That's like saying all cats are mean because you had one that was.
Jamie I just go by what I see as a guitar tech and repair person.
Coated strings sound OK but they have their limitations and aren't some magical wonder string like they want you to think. I'm not saying Elixer strings are horrible or the company sucks I'm just telling you what I see as a repair person.
poly's
If you're so hateful toward Brad, why are you bothering to watch and rant about his videos? Hate only hateful things, please.
Clearly a manufacturing defect/bad batch and should be returned. In the warm, humid climate of Brisbane, the coated Elixirs cope with sweat and skin grease and do not rust or break down the coating. They maintain their full tones multiple times longer than non coated making them good value for money. Have not tried D'Addario as their coated strings appear more expensive here.
Not a manufacturing defect. This is what Elixirs do if you play heavy blues and bend with vibrato a lot on that G string, particularly.
I've had the same results as Brad with these strings..
If you're a bender buy something/anything else..
Or just play chords & don't bend..
ROCK ON!! Gary/Hk
Robert Bull I'm also living in Brisbane and couldn't agree more.
I'm an Aussie too though I live on the Central Coast just north of Sydney and I have had nothing but positive experiences with Elixer strings, especially the polywebs. I would never go back to uncoated strings after the extra life, tune and playability of these strings.
I'm in my early fifties now and I only wish that they had been available thirty years earlier though I'm glad that they're here now as I still perform and have never had one break on me; not once and, as I'm sure you'll agree, when playing and bending for hours on stage that knowledge that the strings will hold gives one confidence.
This happened to me in my electric with Ernie Balls 2221 on the D string (lots of bends)
Simple case of replacing them. I use only Elxir and have never had a problem with them.
Sure...replace them with D'Addario and don't look back.
The Guitologist, having used them, i don't see what's special. They are fine as are Ernie Ball etc. I personally find the feel of Elixir feel, era good, especially the new ones just out...
No, D'Addario don't compare.
Not sure it's the strings fault on this one. Those frets look pretty terrible. The need crowning at least.
You didn't mention how old the elixirs are. If they've reached the end of their life, then you'd expect them to react strangely...
Don't know. I've used Elixirs before and they sound great, last well, and are stable. I'm thinking the problems may be down to the normal things. Wear and tear.
Anyway, just my 2 cents worth. Keep up the channel mate. I love watching the circuit diagnosis stuff. Interesting.
Strings less than a week old. lasted 3 jam sessions. The frets are typical for what you see in Chinese imports. They routinely level frets and polish, skipping the crowning procedure to save money, BUT that doesn't mean the frets are "bad" or "terrible" or "sharp" as many commenters have suggested, it just means they aren't pretty and round on top. No tool marks, no serrations or roughness on the frets. If they were, I would have dressed them. I have all the tools for it.
The Guitologist bad strings send video and strings back to elixir and get free strings
i don't like elixirs either.. but honestly, as a fellow technician, I have NEVER removed strings then tried to put them back on. it's not worth the hassle most the time and they never seem to sound right after being reapplied. just put fresh strings on. even if they're a little expensive (like elixirs, jesus christ) your tone will thank you.
I put them back on at the request of the customer, but they still should not fray like that. Not something I'd expect from a $15 set of guitar strings.
The thing with guitar strings is different strings react differently for everyone. For instance I like Ernie Ball, Gibson and Rotosound strings, but I don't generally like D'Addario (apart from their NYXLs) or Elixir strings because they seem to wear out on me very quickly. I know a lot of people who actually find it's the opposite way around for them and find that D'Addario and Elixirs last them months, and yet last time I used Elixirs, I had worn through the coating within a week. What I've learned from my personal experiences is there is no definitive right or wrong answer to guitar strings because it all just depends on the individual player.
Avoid Elixer strings at your own loss. Loss of tone, loss of length of remaining in proper tune, loss of playability and loss of length of string life overall. The Polyweb Elixer string coating is better than the Nanoweb but like any man made item it DOES have a 'lifespan',(your video did not mention how long those strings had been on the instrument before it arrived on your door, but just by looking at that string I'd say quite some time) and not even coated strings will last forever.
I have no agenda, no affiliation with Elixer or any reason to promote these strings other than my own experience with them and they, in my opinion DO justify the slight extra cost with all the benefits I outlined earlier. It is a simple experiment (to purchase and use them) and a small price for one's own assessment of the item.
Epi Phone You are correct! I just installed them on my Tele. They killed the tone and I had to double the action to drop out the buzz. I'm going back to the greatest strings ever - NYXL!
A thing does not need to be man-made to have a lifespan. All things have one.
I love my mine! They help give that wonderful Tone and feel my Taylor came with from the factory.
I'm surprised more guitarists haven't heard of naptha. It's great at cleaning guitar strings. It's found in most lighter fluids. I use it to clean my strings after I play and it makes quick work of sweat, grime and the black funk that plagues your strings.
I was a-frayed this would happen. OH! BOOM!
I'm here all week folks, thanks for coming out!
Jack ~'()'~
Canada
I have a 1974 Citation made in Japan Martin copy that I use Elixir strings on and they go dead fast! I do play a lot but for the price I'm just not pleased with their durability.Any suggestions on a good replacement?
Any tips on cleaning the elixir strings on daily basis??
My elixir strings’ coating are spraying too much after about 3 weeks of playing and it annoyed for my fretting hand
I haven't found anything better than Elixir as of yet. And my strings have never frayed before. Weird. If you know of a better quality acoustic string brand, I would love to know. Thank you for your videos
Martin life span sp are better just but ekexir are good
I use Elixer strings on my Taylor GS series . I’ve had my strings start to fray but only after a lot of use. I just put on a new set. They really sound good on my guitar, but I’m open to using other strings as well. I try to stay open minded..
I play guitar almost 10 times through a year (I mean, not so often) and I'm planning to try some Elixir strings because the Ernie Ball / D'Addario strings I've been using rust after a few days/weeks of changing them. Will the Elixir strings fit with my super casual playing schedule? I'm willing to change them once a year from now on, but I'm afraid of going through this coat peeling after the third time I play on this strings.
I bought a fender acoustic with that pick up it worked fine but I changed the strings and the 6th sting is super loud and bassy and drowns out the other strings. Do I have to put on a certain type of string or did I did something wrong when changing.
Would never use anything but elixir strings.
Simply replace them.
They sound better than any other strings!
Lol the worst sound ever XD metallic hollow pipe vibrations
@@matrixarsmusicworkshop561 as a electric guitar player, I can say that When unplugged they may sound metallic, but pluged the sound just goes away, and the feel amazing while playing for sure
@@d0ppi034 not in a slightest.
@@matrixarsmusicworkshop561 Oh, i guess you must hate it even more than i thought then lol. Something personal between you and elixir?
Am I the only one who sees that you did all that work and put an old set of strings back on the guitar? If you can spring for a piezo pickup and the tech work to do it, put a new set of strings on it. Problem solved.
Yes, you're the only one. A new set of strings!?!??! Why didn't I think of that???
Well, why didn't you?
Obviously, after discovering this massive flaw in the strings, I did put on a new set. The owner of the guitar asked me to save the strings if I could because they were not old, so I was following the wishes of my customer, not putting on old strings because I was lazy or dumb or a bad guitar tech. It really would be interesting to see what would happen if know-it-all's would stop and think before opening their mouths to state the blatantly obvious. It's like dealing with 3-year-olds.
face it dude, you got called out for being an idiot. Calling people who follow your page 3-year olds is going to do less for you than doing the right thing for your customer. I also dont buy it that your customer had the money for a new Piezo pickup- the whole install, but not 15 dollars for new strings.
You don't "buy it"? Buddy, I don't give a hot damn what you "buy". I'm not here to impress you. Don't like this channel, get lost. I do not need your approbation.
Never seen one of your videos before, but the title caught my eye in the recommended videos, since I've been an Elixir acoustic player for about 18 years.
Regardless of how they got so shredded, did you put these strings back on this guitar after you worked on it?
HamOnTheCob the real question no one has commented.. I know I'm late as shit.
Do the strings makes dents on the frets? I bought a new Taylor and after the first set of strings dents started happening on the frets. Specifically the b string
It also happened with the new replacement they gave me. It happened again after the 3rd set of strings
Love my elixirs, that set must have been used for years man, of course it’s gonna look like that
Try polishing the nasty flat topped frets before you blame the strings ...
It isn't the frets.
look at the fret top at the right of the image (2:30) those square fret tops should have been rounded when it was dressed .. the hard edge is going to aggravate any string wear issues.
Angry Person don't bother he knows it all even how hard people play their one fucking instrument those frets are shit just like this video
@@TheGuitologist yup, it's you, a moron
I have used Elixer strings for about 15 years on all of my guitars. I have never had this happen. Also, how old are the strings? Did you replace them? When you did, did the buzzing completely go away?
I think my last set of strings was coated on my electric guitar because when I changed them they seemed to be more bare metal and they buzzed a lot more but idk
This is a pretty silly video because it misinforms people. I've just run to check my one set of Polywebs, which I've been playing on hard for maybe three years. Not even a trace of fraying at the frets.
It does not misinform. This player is an aggressive blues player and these strings are not old. You either do not play the guitar much or you play it lightly. For you, the Polywebs work ok. For me, and for this customer, this happens.
@@TheGuitologist Yeah but you left out the part where those frets were in bad shape.
Never happened to me in 20 years with elixir
My first set of Elixirs lasted about a year. I don't play a lot but my experience with regular acoustic strings they start to tarnish in a couple of weeks. So I bought another set and to my surprise the G string was frayed right out of the pack. I was very dissapointed and emailed the company about it. They were very good about it and sent me a new set. I haven't put them on yet but when I do I'll get back to you and let you know how they worked out.
It’s always good to see different videos of how people do things. I like to watch a few to make sure I’m doing the right thing. I’ve used coated strings on my guitar but they are too expensive. I use phosphor bronze. Found some cheap ones for my mandolin but will look out for what your saying.
Your buddy needs to replace his strings more often. I have not experienced what you are. Sounds like good old fashion fret buzz to me. LOL.
He only used for 2 rehearsals and one show. The video shows before and after strings change. Even with a crusty old 1970s string, there's no buzz.
The Guitologist you admitted there was buzz...
TuningSociety West He's talking about there being no buzz with 1970s string
This video is pretty old, but I just wanted to point out (as others have done) that those frets are in bad shape. I'm not sure if someone spot leveled them and didn't recrown the frets, or if it's just uneven fret wear from vibrato on certain (common frets). Either way, a flat fret is going to generate buzz on its own because it has a wider contact point than a properly crowned fret. Not only that, but it throws your intonation off. If it is flat from uneven fret wear and not from a lazy fret job, then those lower frets are going to cause even more fret buzz: buzz at the flattened fret, and buzz at the next fret higher due to the lower height of the worn fret.
Also, worn frets tend to tear of Polyweb strings as the surface of the fret is not smooth. Level those frets. Dress them. Then give them a good polish and a lot of those issues will go away with the Elixers.
I've never heard the coating wearing off generate that much fret buzz as the coating doesn't have that much mass. It will throw off the resonance of the string slightly which may cause it oscillate funny and possibly buzz (but I have not personally experienced this). The fraying does cause some really odd overtones, though. When I used to use poly webs, I would change them once they started to feel "fuzzy" at the first sign of any fraying which was normally after a month. I play with wide vibrato (1-2 whole tone vibrato) and very wide bends (2-3 step bends) on electric and have never had them fray to that extent. Then again. I touch up my frets whenever any flat spots or uneven wear appears. I also keep them polished regularly using micromesh and/or Flitz at the first sign of tarnish.
For the last 10 years I have only used D"Addario phosphor bronze strings. Back then I was trying other brands including Elixer coated strings. My feeling was that the Elixer's sounded great but I would notice the coating getting a little sticky on my finger tips. I also felt that the Elixers were not quite as clear as the D'Addarios, I assume because they are coated. I admit the difference is very, very subtle. As I played more and improved my sound, it got to the point where I was changing my strings more often. Since the price of the Elixers was higher, another reason to stick to the DA'ddarios. I will try the D'Addarios again to see if I change my mind
Is the string itself actually frayed, or is it just the coating? If it is just the coating, can it be cleaned up? Can the string be shifted with an extra ball end under the bridge, so the same place on the string won't hit the fret?
Completely depends on what kind of playing style you have.
Friend of mine bought brand new Elixer strings and broke 3 in one gig! I've bought a set and after more than 2 months they are starting to show enough wear for me to think about replacing them. I however, have quite a light touch.
So yeah I get what you are saying but it does depends on the player. I've had D'addario's before but I'm sticking to the Elixers as they are nice and bright with good lows as well.
I'll go along with that. Thanks for the thoughtful response.
Also props for giving the video a normal title (i.e. no ELIXIR STRINGS SUCK or an equivalent of that).
I don't think it's that people are "passionate" about strings.
I think it's more about how illogical your whole video is.
First off.....you're not telling us how old that set of elixers is.
Are they a couple weeks old? A month? 3 months? 6 months? How much playing time on them?
Not really reasonable to suggest, for example, that a set of 3 month old heavily played elixers should be expected to be in great condition. Wouldn't you say?
Second,
Why would you be putting a used set of strings onto a guitar after doing work on it? Seems strange. Is the guy that cheap?
Strings need to be changed. Just because some people tolerate rusted or worn out strings doesn't mean that's a reflection of the quality of the brand itself. Maybe it's user expectations being ridiculously out of line?
"A car should be able to do 300 000 miles with absolutely no maintenance or oil changes whatsoever. If it doesn't, it must be a terrible car company"
Third,
You didn't tell us if they are poly or nano. That does make a difference. The nano's are much better for this kind of problem. And again...that's assuming the problem on these strings is a legit defect, which judging by the look...is probably not the case. I'm guessing it's that user expectation thing again. "just put the old set back on".....lol...
Fourth,
You put the non coated string on...play it...then admit there is some buzzing from that one too.....lol. OK so maybe the coating is having an effect but maybe the guitar needs to be set up better regardless? If buzzing is a concern for the player that is.
As for cost benefit....yeah....that's a personal thing. I agree with what you said for the most part. Although I'd say if you're playing a set of strings for "a year or more", they may not look like they need changing but they most certainly will sound like it. A year of playing at any reasonable amount will deaden the strings. One more time.....unrealistic user expectations. Coated or uncoated. Just because a set of strings looks OK doesn't mean they are OK.
Basically people just need to stop being cheap bastards and change their strings.
Description
also some people's sweat just naturally destroys strings faster than others, mine for example seems to just chew through strings. its annoying, i can rip through a brand new set in 2 days and need a new set.
I've been using the Phosphor Bronze Nanoweb's for years now on my acoustics and I've never had anything like that happen. Maybe it was just a bad batch?
Is it possible that the offset "fret divets" in the string after the bridge saddle was shaved could have contributed to the buzz? I've never noticed the buzz being a problem even with fraying Elixirs. Having said that, I have, in the past, run into an issue where coated strings caused a string grounding issue on a bass. This wouldn't be so much of an issue on a guitar since the plain strings (E and B) are not coated. I love Elixirs on my electrics, but I use EMG pickups which don't require a string ground.
I'm gonna have to vote for 'bad batch" also. I've used Elixir strings on my acoustics for the past 16 years. More specifically, #16027 Phosphor Bronze Nanoweb, in the Custom Light gauge. I've seen the coating wear out, if I've been too lazy to change my strings, but I've never seen them come apart. Sometimes I change my *new* strings after a hard gig, and other times, I may change them once a month. It just depends on how much I play, and what the environment is like at that particular point in time. If I ever take them off though, I put on a new set. It's as simple as that.
Those frets look terrible. You can clearly see nicks and sharp edges, where the crown has been worn down from playing. Don't bash good strings because of a damaged instrument. Leveling and recrowning the frets, and a proper setup (nut, truss rod, AND, not only, a bridge adjustment) would solve the majority of your friend's issues.
And, I can't help but add, if your friend can afford a $100+- pickup, have it installed, and can't afford to change the strings at the same time; and if you did the work, as a luthier (hobby or professional), and didn't replace the strings during the job, you both need to find something else to do with your time.
I'm not saying Elixir strings are the best, and I'm not saying that everyone should use them. All I'm saying is that under normal conditions, I've never personally seen anyone have that type of failure with them.
Repair the instrument back to its original condition, and you can use whatever strings you like, without issue. Or don't, that's between the two of you. Don't, however, give bad information because your friend "cheaped-out", and blamed the strings for a poor maintenance issue.
There are a lot of beginner, and experienced, people that watch these videos, and now might not try these strings, that could have potentially fell in love with them. They personally helped me when I was just starting out, because regular strings killed my unseasoned fingers, and the coating on the Elixirs made playing easier. If it weren't for these strings, I may not have pursued this interest as much as I did, and I might have missed out on the joys of learning to play.
People can take what I've said with a grain of salt. I'm not a professional, I just do it for the love of music. I'm sure though that a lot of people will agree with what I've said. I'm getting off of my soapbox now. If you've made it this far, thanks for reading this, and happy playing!
Thank you I lost a lot of respect for him on this video
Just change the strings and quit complaining. And "Down here it magicly stops buzzing." He is using strings from the 70's, DEAR LORD HELP US ALL.
,,,,but it was close to the same guage,,,,,😄
Lulz ... how do you manage to get this? Im using Elixir, too ... and this coating always ripps of where im picking, looks shitty but sound is still great ... but ive checked all guitars ( one has the same elixir strings since over 1 year ) and none of them have this "fret" problem, that the coating wears off at the frets ... 0o and i love to bend or vibrato ...
How much for you to set you my new Taylor I can't find anybody to set it up
I take back what I said, but just for the acoustic strings, bought 4 packs of elixir's, each g string frayed exactly like his in this video over a relatively short period of time, the electric guitar strings are a lot more stable and well made I guess, but yeah the acoustic ones I find are worse than uncoated d'addario's
I COAT MY STRINGS WITH YACK FUR - SMOOTH, EASY TO PLAY, AND THEY LAST AT LEAST THRITY FIVE YEARS!
😂😂😂
@@Ikillintel1
:^)
I like the Di Adario Bronze lights. Been using them for years. "Happiness is; an acoustic guitar with new strings".
I read your post script in the comments below first. I'm also one of those guys with a PH that utterly destroys strings in a very short amount of time. For 10 years, ( from 1991 through 2001 ) I was a member of an acoustic duo, and we gigged hard every week ( typical 4 hr, 4 set gigs ), usually 2 to 3 dates a week. My partner was the lead guitarist, as I held down the main rhythm & melody, as well as the majority of lead vocals, as we both harmonized vocals in the choruses. ( Classic rock tunes mostly.) We both use 12's on our acoustic guitars. Even though he often played using heavy blues type string bends ( and even slide guitar where applicable ), he could use the same set of strings for several gigs before replacing. ( We both used UN-coated Martin Marquis strings back then. ) But for me on the other hand, my strings would be trashed after only 1 gig. This was back when the coated Elixir's first came out & became all the rage. I tried them immediately & HATED them. Even though they were 12's, they felt like wimpy rubber bands when tuned to pitch. But nowadays, I am using the D'addario XS coated strings on 3 of 4 of my acoustics. I love their feel, sound, and they far outlast anything else made today. But even these XS strings can't withstand a high open E alternate tuning without breaking fairly soon. A high alternate open tuning like open E tuning is really hard on strings. ( You never "keep the guitar in open E tuning", you have to tune back down after performing a song that uses open E tuning, for obvious reasons...........and this constant re-tuning up & down is abusive to ANY string. ) This is why I use the un-coated GHS Americana strings on one of my acoustic guitars that I use for open E tuning. The GHS Americana strings sound fantastic, are reasonably durable, and they cost far less than any "coated string". Because even the uber-expensive coated strings break fairly soon when used for high open E tuning, I refuse to waste money on those for my guitar used often for open E.
0:32 loose screw laying on the work bench. Makes me nervous.
This is not due to the strings...🤦♂️
Jeez how long do you keep your strings on before changing? I’ve never had that amount of fraying with Elixirs... then again I usually change my coated strings once a month.
This happened to my strings I noticed the fray ends towards the Floyd rose locks..I just had then changed a couple of months ago..
You try to point out something you think people should know about. And you get slammed. That only proves the saying, no good deed goes unpunished
When I first started playing the ELIXER strings saved my life in building my calculus
Perfectly valid. My experience and the experience of my customer won't apply to everyone.
Jim Stone what?
@@el34glo59 he's a math whiz now
@@el34glo59 He meant "callouses", not "calculus".
Eeek! Is it the same verdict on electric ones? 🤘 just received some in bulk so would like to know
Very interesting , I often wondered what the big difference would be, Thanks for the insight ...
no way the owner only used them for two practice sessions. That may have been what he told you lol
OK so what are the best strings to use for acoustic guitars? How about telling us that?
this never happened to my nanowebs. the only area i ever get fraying is where i pick, and it's a complete non-issue there
Seriously? Elixers have to be some of the best strings out there right now
Guitarmod deserves a new set of strings! Period
When you said Daddario's coated strings , did you mean NYXL?thx
Yo Brad just wondering if that kill switch is in the way of the srtap?
Wow, why would anyone play a guitar with strings in this condition? What is wrong with you and your friend?
hahaha. Wow.
TheSwatmachine lmao exactly! i wonder how does it feels when u slide ur finger on it
Scott Grove would be triggered
lol. i actually tried elixirs only because scott recommended them so heavily. i do not regret it though.
If by that you mean shot at, then great
What size of the guitar pls?
did you contact elixir to see what they have to say about why their strings wore out?
Hi Brad: I have problems with coated strings after a while on my acoustic, but only where the plectrum hits the strings. Never over the frets. Doesn't really bother me, except aesthetically, as the fraying only happens in an area where the strings don't touch the fretboard.
Soundwise, to me, the Elixirs are the best sounding against other brands. Maybe in your case, your friend's guitar has a bit sharp edges on his frets ? Happened to me with a 335. On my old Les Paul: no problems frets are huge and rounded. Cheers !
No sharp edges on the frets. Normal frets from a normal imported Epi. You point about fraying above the soundhole is another issue I address in my sticky comment.
Elixirs are hand down the best strings I've ever bought. I've tried other coated strings that are on par, but there's no sense in changing to something that's exactly the same.
They last significantly longer, they stay in tune, they don't break easily, they feel great in the hands and they're just a great product all around.
I use them on one guitar a boutique acoustic. I hate them on all my other guitar’s acoustic & electric
I’ve not used their acoustic strings but their electric strings have kept me happy for years and years
A toggle switch on an acoustic guitar with a piezo pickup is a very bad combination. Every time you switch it ON, the pickup would pick that "click" sound as well. And that is annoying. If you absolutely needed to add a cut-off switch a "push-to-on" switch would have been a better option. I could be wrong, but this setup didn't work for me.
I have customers that use them and they have this idea they will last for years.
When I tell them the coating splits over a few months they act like I'm crazy.
I don't care for Elixer/coated strings at all
LOL. Your buddy needs to get a new set of strings. Ain't none of them last for ever! Cheap?
I use elixir strings, but for me it only frays (i assume 'fray' means peel off) at the picking area, not the fingerboard area.
So whats best to use?
My elixir snapped trying to get it to standard tuning.
Totally agree, my friend bought Elixirs and within a few weeks his strings began to fray. Elixirs (from what I've noticed) are shit. I easily fix the problem by buying D'addarios
Does anyone know on how to buy factory guitar strings
Installed my very first set of nanoweb Elixir on my new PRS acoustic, 3 days after the installation they still don't keep tune, and where I used a pick strings tarnished turned dark and fuzzy, terrible strings sadly I have one more pack of that garbage.
I used these strings when I first started playing because of the comfort. I had the exact same issues being illustrated here. I haven't used them in years
Thank you.
I've never used Elixer strings nor have any of my friends. Been happy with Ernie Ball for years. I did put set of DR red coated strings on a red Ibanez. Looked cool but little red flakes appeared quickly. I know this about Elixer, but just thought I would relay that.
I use them for years now and this never happened with me. Elixir strings and coated strings in general are a life saver for people with sweaty hands like me. Can't tell you how much it means not to have your strings turn into a rusty unplayable piece of crap in just a week. I'm also not rich or a touring player to change strings every week.
Let's take a moment to appreciate the fact that he filmed this in ultra HD and was as succinct as possible
I was just about to go out and purchase a set of Elixir strings but wasn't sure of which type C or unC , you decided for me. I've noticed than buzzing too. Thanks.
Pee-AY-zo, Brad. Jesus.
THE SOUND OF ELIXIR STRINGS ALONE BLOWS !
I see you in a lot of Beatles and guitar videos. Also have you forgotten to take off your caps lock? Lmao
Agree with Guitologist. I have bought two sets of Elixir strings now and within a week, the G string furs up as the coating comes off causing the same fizzing as demonstrated in this video. I will not be getting a third set. My style is light finger picking on a Martin J-15. Usually use D'addario EXP's but if anyone has any recommendations, I'd be glad to read them.
i have like a knock off les paul by a company called Gould and the G string buzzes like crazy on that thing but its never done it before i just recently put 8 gauge strings on it would that make the string buzz? if its not used to having 8's on it?
Two reasons why 8s could buzz on a guitar set up for heavier strings... One, the truss rod needs to be adjusted to allow more forward bow because an 8 gauge set will exert less tension on the neck, and also 8 gauge strings are very slinky, so when you hit a note, the strings will travel further in their oscillation, which could bring them in contact with frets and create buzz.
how do i adjust the truss rod?
The Guitologist I had that problem on my LP and the nut holding the tuning peg needed tightening. No idea how it got loose, after I tightened it no more buzz.
on my squier classic vibe i just got a problem with one of the tuning pegs that when i try to tighten my low E string the peg like snaps back once it gets to a certain tension and i cant secure the E string yall ever had anything like that?