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Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/146156
fred davis - Posted - 04/22/2009: 19:22:18
I'm trying to learn the Blues on a 6 string
I know anyway I have heard I should use light guage electric strings ?? I played a electric guitar today and was amased at how easy it was to bend the strings as well as freting But I'm concerned ab
out sustain?? any help please ( other than burn the 6 ) thanks fred
beegee - Posted - 04/22/2009: 20:22:04
6-string banjo or guitar?
Electric guitar strings probably aren't as good as banjo strings.
Just use light gauge stainles banjo set like a GHS PF120. they're slinky enough. Your sustain will come from the head, bridge and neck. A quality banjo will sustain better than a cheapy A solid, tight neck-to-rim connection will help sustain.
__________________________
"It is better, of course, to know useless things than to know nothing." -Seneca
poohbear85345 - Posted - 04/22/2009: 20:53:51
I agree with Beegee use light banjo strings that is what I did after I tried med.strings . the light strings made the action better and I cas bend the heck out of them.I have a six string banjo and I love it
loggerhead - Posted - 04/22/2009: 21:02:38
I have not been a player long enough to give banjo advice, but as an ex-blues guitar buff, I can say that the debate over what gauge string to use is somewhat bogus. Yes, light gauge strings bend easier, but not all blues players like that, or like the sound they give. Experiment around, and then use what feels good to your hands and your ears. Nobody else is playing your instrument when you're on.
I can already grin
Tweak - Posted - 04/22/2009: 21:30:54
Use heavier strings and tune down. That's what Stevie Ray Vaughn did. You get a big tone and you can bend easy.
poohbear85345 - Posted - 04/22/2009: 22:43:42
mmmm that not a bad ideal to bad I did't think of that lol
loggerhead - Posted - 04/23/2009: 07:44:31
The Stevie Ray Vaughn approach is something else to try. Many blues players (especially acoustic blues) like the heavier strings, even at regular tuning, because of that thumping bass you just cannot get with lighter strings. They seem able to bend those wail notes just fine as well. And if you are contemplating slide playing at all, you will need a velvet touch if you are using light strings, or your bottle will be fretting rather than sliding.
Not saying you should or should not use any particular gauge. Find what works for your style.
I can already grin
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