Which Strings?

[Skip Ellis]

I've got a new 000-40r from Notable next week and was wondering what the recommendations are for strings. I think they come with Elixir which I hate and will change them out as soon as it comes through the door. I play mostly (90%) fingerstyle and was thinking of going to silk and steel or extra light 80/20 (not too fond of PB either but might give them a try). I really like Monel but I'm not sure they're the right choice for a rosewood guitar. Any thoughts? I'm leaning, at least in my mind, toward John Pearse extra lights.

[George]

More likely to come with D'Addario EJ16 I believe.  Monel is great on any guitar.  Pearse makes great strings too.  Try different kinds and different gauges, that is the best way to figure out what you and the guitar both like the best...

[broKen]

I would recommend playing it a few days with the d'addarios, before changing to another.

[eded]

First thought that comes to mind is finding a great local tech to develop a relationship with.  A really good setup makes lighter strings (and thinner tone) a thing of the past.

Ymmv

Ed

[mike in lytle]

 
You have expressed an interest in DADGAD so I think maybe extra lights might not work cause the heavier strings might just flop around.
You may end up with a 12-54 set to make it work. Just me. I play in alternate tunings and have gravitated.
I also agree to suggest trying out the stock strings for a week or so while you are checking out the action on the guitar.
A lower action and mediums with finger picking could make the guitar a dream.
I played with silk and steel for many years, but don't (won't) use them anymore. No benefit.
You will need to experiment with the type of strings (80-20, PB, monel and maker). In the end you will find what works.
Sorry the L-05 did not work out.
Mike

[B0WIE]

99% of the posts asking "which strings" never explain what the person is actually looking for.  The two mentioned (silk & steel and 80/20s) couldn't be more different than each other so it would be good if you could summarize what it is that your ear is after.  In other words; more of ____, less of _____.  Right now, it's like asking "What should I have for dinner?"  Well, what are you in the mood for? 

BTW, please don't take that as a rant or anything condescending.  I only say that because there are some who inexplicably get offended at posts suggesting they re-think the question.

[clicker7]

I like D'Addario phosphor bronze.

I play a Larrivee maple (L-03fm), mostly fingerpicking, and D'Addario pb's lights sound great on it.

I recently started using, EJ26-- Custom lights. They have great sound, plenty of sustain,  and are kind on your fingers.

Joseph

[ducktrapper]

Six ... new. No need to thank me. 

[Mikeymac]

Six ... new. No need to thank me. 

Tom, you're back! And with such sage, practical advice - well done.

[Walkerman]

Everyone plays differently, everyone has different perceptions of sound.  You just have to try a bunch of different strings until you find ones that please you.  Remember that new strings generally sound better than old strings.  Don't mistake that "new string sound" as being a "better string sound."

[ducktrapper]

Tom, you're back! And with such sage, practical advice - well done.

String threads have gone on until every possible set, gauge and combination have been recommended so I tend to keep it simple. Like Walkerman says.

[Danny]

 Phosphor bronze, let em settle in for a week or so before dismissing them.

Everyone plays differently, everyone has different perceptions of sound.  You just have to try a bunch of different strings until you find ones that please you.  Remember that new strings generally sound better than old strings.  Don't mistake that "new string sound" as being a "better string sound."

Good advice.

[mattwood]

Skip I would consider trying out DR Rares and Sunbeams.  Easier on the fingers than some strings and I find they last better than other noncoated strings and have a very pleasing tone. 

[rbpicker]

I know that Monels are recommended primarily for mahogany guitars, but I love them on my 000-40R. Mine has the large.soundhole and the sound just flows out of that guitar. My former bias was toward Larrivee mahogany , but the 40 series sounds great dressed in rosewood.

Rb

[rockstar_not]

Am I a bad person for liking Elixir strings?

[Danny]

Am I a bad person for liking Elixir strings?

Most definitely

[mike in lytle]

Am I a bad person for liking Elixir strings?

No.
Mike