mandobaron - Posted - 09/02/2022:  10:15:06

Hi all,



I've got a lovely Pisgah 6 string (5+1) Tubaphone banjo that I want to have set up with Nylon strings for ultimate plunk. Beyond a new nut and a lighter weight bridge, I need to make a decision on string choices.



I'm hoping to get some suggestions for what to try for strings. On steel string instruments I generally use light strings and tune up to A and D, so the lowest I'd regularly tune is gGCGCD and the highest would be aAEADE.



Is there a set of strings I could put together that would work well for my needs? I'm looking for a strong, plunky sound. I'm leaning towards Hannabach or Savarez classical strings in custom gauges, but open to suggestions!

youtu.be/tYUFIe_QDF0



Thanks,

Baron

Edited by - mandobaron on 09/02/2022 10:18:28

mandobaron - Posted - 09/02/2022:  10:45:56

Also, FYI, the pisgah has a 26" scale length

mbanza - Posted - 09/02/2022:  12:18:29

I've done that, though my scale is 25 inches. D'Addario rectified classical nylon strings: First, NYL027; Second, NYL032; Third, NYL040; Fourth, NYL026w; Fifth, NYL034w; Sixth, NYL019. My bridge weighs about one gram. Works very well.



You can get these as singles from Strings by Mail stringsbymail.com/ and other similar suppliers.

Edited by - mbanza on 09/02/2022 12:19:09

mandobaron - Posted - 09/02/2022:  12:27:33

quote:

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Originally posted by mbanza

I've done that, though my scale is 25 inches. D'Addario rectified classical nylon strings: First, NYL027; Second, NYL032; Third, NYL040; Fourth, NYL026w; Fifth, NYL034w; Sixth, NYL019. My bridge weighs about one gram. Works very well.

 

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Awesome, thanks! I'm curious about your sixth string choice being so much lighter than your first string.

Do you think there is enough slack in them to work for a 26" scale, or should I bump everything down a gauge or two?

Do you tune your banjo up to A with those gauges or capo?

Thanks,

Baron

Edited by - mandobaron on 09/02/2022 12:32:17

mbanza - Posted - 09/02/2022:  12:55:12

My sixth string is full length and the smaller diameter allows tuning it an octave above the third string. If your sixth will be a short string, by all means, make it equal to the first.

I usually capo.  I do tune to open C with no issues on the first string tuned up to an E.



You might reduce each string 0.002 or 0.003 inch in diameter.

Edited by - mbanza on 09/02/2022 12:57:52