I just picked up a used Larrivee LV09 with a fresh set of Martin Lifespan treated 2.0 phosphor bronze 12s.They seem to be a little dull to my ears.I was thinking of going with a set of bronze uncoated strings.What do LV09 owners think and what are your preferred strings?I do a mix of finger style and strumming.
Strings are entirely personal and I don't belive a guitar matches to a set of strings. I believe our individual sets of ears decide.
That said, Lifespans often sound dull. I use Elixir for brightness and SCGC for the best combination of tonal balance and lifespan. They last forever without sounding coated.
First, welcome to the Larrivee Forum Steve and don't be a stranger. You came pick up a lot of valuable information from this forum.
You have a great model to begin your Larrivee journey with right out of the gate. I'll defer to other LV-09 owners to weigh in with their thoughts but here are mine. By way of introduction, I have two L bodied Larrivees: an all mahogany LV-03 12 string and a Moonwood Spruce/American Walnut LSV-03 6 string. Personally, I am not a fan of coated strings but a lot of people like them. I generally prefer D'Addario phosphor bronze light gauge strings and found that they work well with both finger style and rhythmic strumming. I generally use EJ16s on my 6 strings including the LSV as well as on an OM and a dreadnought (Both Spruce and Rosewood).
Strings are actually a pretty inexpensive way to experiment with your guitar. I recently bought a 3 pack of EJ16s for $15 and I generally change my strings every 3-6 months but sometimes stretch to 9 months.
I don't have an L-body (I play a dread) but this thread reminded me that when I first got my Larrivee, I used EJ16s (called J16 back then) and loved them. I need to try another set since I'm getting away from heavier strings these days. All my electric playing has me enjoying less tension and playing with more nuance.
To the OP, I use Ernie Ball Earthwoods quite a bit. Just a really basic set of PB strings. I recommend them.
Congrats on a fantastic first Larrivee! I bought my LV-09 used also, and I put D'addario EJ16 strings in it and like them a lot. Plus, they are only about $8 dollars.
Just put a set of EJ16 they really opened the sound of the guitar.Thanks for all the responses
Great news!! Don't be shy trying different string brands also.