Hi All,

I don't even have my OMV-03 SP yet and I am already confused by all the string choices. I am going to have it set-up for me when I get it so should I take the new strings I want with me....I want to try Newton Masterclass Strings. But my question is....which ones?? There are so many different choices. My plan is to learn fingerstyle and light strumming. Anyone have any thoughts on what might be best for a newbie to try?

Thanks,
Tammy

Hi Tammy
I've never tried the Newton Masterclass strings so I can't venture an opinion on them.   I have tried lots of other strings, however and have some personal preferences.  If you are truly a newcomer to the guitar I would strongly suggest that you stick to the light gauge strings to start with no matter who the maker is.
They'll just be easier for you to play and won't make your fingers quite as sore.
I generally like D'addario EJ-16s on an OM body.  Later on after you've toughened up your fingers you can move up to medium strings like the EJ-17s.   I've recently started using the heavier EJ-17s on my OM-03R and I've noticed a big improvement in volume and sustain.
You'll probably want to experiment with several to see what suits you best.

I use the Newtone Masterclass 12-52's and find them perfect for fingerpicking and strumming.

Apart from the fact that they are excellent strings which sound great and last a long time, Newtones are ideal for a beginner, as they get up to pitch with reduced tension, making them easier to play.

QuoteNewtone Masterclass 12-52's and find them perfect for fingerpicking and strumming

QuoteApart from the fact that they are excellent strings which sound great and last a long time, Newtones are ideal for a beginner, as they get up to pitch with reduced tension, making them easier to play

:+1: on both the above and kinder to beginner's soft paws too  :smile:  ...some strings seem more like cheese graters  :doh

Is definitely right thing to do to take the along the actual strings you intend to use when you have it setup (I usually put two sets in the case just in case).

When you get your Newtone Masterclass strings the 12-52's will probably be labelled "Medium Light".... every manufacturer seems to have a different idea of light/medium etc.   :arrow

Pete

You might find DR Sunbeam (round core) and Rare low tension strings more readily available and for less money. I liked the low tension strings on my OMV-03RE but not on my Martin dread.

Otherwise I can't say a bad thing about the suggestion for EJ-16 D'Addarios, and I've now done 4 sets of the EXP long life version and will stick with them for the foreseeable future because of the time saved. The EXPs are holding up to the 2-3.5 hour jams in public places.

I had some fun trying a lot of string brands and types in recent months, but I'd say stick with one standard if you're just learning. What I'm getting at is that I was happy with one guitar for 30 years, then got rather into the stuff aspect, and now I've eliminated 3 guitars and really concentrate on playing. The guitars are all very different - electric, loud flatpicker and OMV - but the simplicity and consistency gives me no crutch or reason to think progress or lack of does not come from me.

I digress, but the other best tip I can give if you're learning is to play with others. I found jams including beginners jams via google and craigslist.

Have fun and good luck!

My strings of choice are the Newtone Custom gauge 12-54.  I get 'em from the Guitar Galleria 6 sets at a time.  They are the longest lasting non coated strings I've found and they do seem to have slightly less tension than other strings.  If you try them, follow the directions when stringing your guitar to avoid any accidental unwrapping of the wound strings.  My second choice is Daddario EXP 16's, 3rd is Daddario EJ16's and final is whatever I can find really cheap.

The Newtone Masterclass 12-52 strings should be just fine on your OM. I currently have them on my L and they work very well. However, I've also used d'Addario EJ16 strings for decades and they are fine, too, specially when the new string sound wears off. Basically, your OM is going to sound fine with just about anything on it.

Hi Guys,

Thanks for your comments. I am going to go with Newtone Masterclass 12-52 strings....anyone else have suggestions for the best place to buy them? I am not sure I want to get 6 sets just yet so am looking for a place that has them at a good price?

Thanks,
Tammy

Tammy - Here is the dealer list from the Newtone site:
http://www.newtonestrings.com/links.htm#

I picked up my medium/lights (12-52) from Guitar Gallery:
http://www.guitargal.com/strings.html

I justs picked up a 6 pack of Newtone MasterClass PB Med. from Robin at Guitar Gallery. I've always used the 12-54s, which feel lighter then other 12-54s, so I figured I'm ready to step it up to Mediums. I know my Jumbos and 000-50 are going to love it.   :nana_guitar :nana_guitar :nana_guitar