Hello everyone,
I'm about to get my first antique banjo : a 1900 SS Stewart gorgeous banjo... neck is really straight and now, it has light steel Strongs tuned in G.
I'm really afraid of bending the neck with too much tension, so I was thinking putting some nylgut Strings on it...
so here are my questions :
- is it ok tu put medium nylgut strings or should it be light on an antique banjo ? (tuning G or double C) ?
- are there tunings to avoid using nylgut Strings not to break them ? ( lower ? or Usual tunings will work ?)
Thank you all ! Have a great day
Nylgut is designed with normal tunings in mind. I have used all my standard clawhammer tunings without problems.
Your Stewart should be fine with any of the available nylgut tensions.
Lights. Let the girl sing.
Edited by - Helix on 06/03/2023 05:00:55
I’d recommend going to Joel Hooks and getting the appropriate strings. Joel won’t “advertise” here, but I know he’d tell you to get the steel off that SSS.
banjothimble.com/shop/classic-...ings.html
Absolutely no steel strings, including lights. Any nylgut is fine, but you won't get the most out of it unless you use light strings. Joel Hooks sells LaBella and Nylgut sets in the appropriate, period-correct gauges. Grab one of his bridges while you're at it.
I agree with contacting Mr. Hooks. He is extremely knowledgeable about Stewart banjos.
No steel on a Stewart!!
thank you all for your advices ! I just bought a nylgut set from Mr Hooks, so excited !!
