Increasing Tension on the first and second String

[William2]

It is string changing time. I usually use D'Addario Acoustic SX light strings. Do many of you use 13s and 17s on your first and second strings? I've heard it equalizes the tension across the string set. I had a Martin DSS-17 I recently sold. Martin had a set of mediums they string their dreadnoughts with. I replaced them with a set of my D'Addario SX strings. I was amazed at how weak the trebles were after I did this. Has anyone tried the Elixir HD strings?

[unclrob]

I use a set of 13-56 and have changed out the E+B to a 13 and an 18,I've been doing this....well forever.In drop tunings I don't lose the high end strings, and I have no problem when playing in standard tunings. I use 12 t0 56 on mu electric,I like a wound G string.

[mike in lytle]

I normally use 11-52 sets on all my guitars except one, where I use a 12/16 for E/B  instead of 11/15. This is cause that particular guitar lives its life in a lowered tuning and the E/B seemed loose.
This is not the same as your situation, but just offered as one experience.
Mike

[ducktrapper]

I tend to use lighter strings these days. Easier on my arthritic hands. I have a strong approach to both playing with or without a pick so I don't think I lose a lot of volume. I'm more likely to be told I'm too loud than too soft. Just bought a set of D'Addario XS phospher bronze 10/47's but haven't put them on my L-01 yet. They were pricey but are supposed to be longer lasting. I also got a set of phospher bronze D'Addario EJ15's, same gauge, for my Martin D-35 since I don't like coated strings on her. With the set of D'Addario Folk ball end nylons for my Yamaha, I'm bracing for a busy day of string changing.

[William2]

I might just leave the instruments with the string setup I have. As I mentioned, The Martin seemed weaker in the trebles after I went with the 12 - 53 compared to their medium Monel set. But after a day or two of playing my ears adjusted to this sound and I didn't mind the change with the lighter tension. On my Waterloo jumbo King there was no noticeable sound difference when I did this, and it made playing the instrument much easier with the severe V neck profile the Jumbo king has. And I must say, I light the sound I'm currently getting on my two Larrivee's with the D'Addario 12-53 sets. In the past, I've had a couple of East5man instruments that needed a 13 on the first string because of buzzing when it was played fortissimo. I've used Elixir in the past and liked them, but the strings don't nearly as long as the D'Addario sets. In fact, last year when I was having my SD-40R adjusted, the shop I use recommended the D'Addario SX set. prior to this they always recommended the Elixir brand.