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/267596
hardeeflag - Posted - 07/27/2013: 09:32:49
hello,
I have a Recording King OT25 Banjo. I would like to try Nylgut stings on it. However I don't think I am ready to do any nit modifications. Can I use these strings with the without modifying the nut? I assume a different bridge would be in order however? I am also concerned with the stock tailpiece might slice these strings as well. Is the nut to narrow for these stings on this banjo? I am kind of new to banjo but been playing guitar for a while so I am not really knowledgeable in mods on banjos.
My thought was:
1) Different bridge
2) Perhaps a different tailpiece (something that is a "drop in" for my banjo - was looking at the Fielding tailpiece fieldingbanjos.com/index.php/f...ailpieces )
Also what type of knot would be best for these strings at the tailpiece? I have a minstrel banjo but it has an ebony tailpiece with holes.
Thanks for any help.
Edited by - hardeeflag on 07/27/2013 09:33:17
Jason Wilkerson - Posted - 07/27/2013: 10:12:56
You're pretty much on it yourself.
1. Yes, the bridge will likely not work at all, the 1st and 5th strings will probably not stay in place, but slide to the middle.
2. Yes, the nut can probably work on a temporary basis. The nylguts could sit on the top of the string slots without going into the slots. They will probably stay in place well enough for you to see if you like it or not, then modify later
3. Yes, your Presto style tailpiece will likely be a problem. I'd recommend trying something temporary there, too, to see if you like it or not. Try a keychain ring, just anything to hold the strings in place for you to try it out for a few days.
4. Yes, you may run into neck width issues. The nylguts are thicker, and really feel better with a bit more space.
Hopefully this helps 
Edited by - Jason Wilkerson on 07/27/2013 10:13:47
bhniko - Posted - 07/27/2013: 14:41:25
Recently changed over to Nylgut on my Goodtime with my Steve Davis Bridge and original Deering tailpiece. I tried both the medium and light Aquila Nylgut and did not change anything an they worked fine. The lights fit a bit better. The only thing I had to do was tie the Nylgut in a loop at one end to fit on the tailpiece. But be sure that your original tailpiece is smooth where the strings come in contact and you should be OK. Also remember that
Nulgut stretches quite a bit before settling in so don't leave a lot of slack when you string them onto the tuners.
