Acoustic Guitar Strings

[scoobysoo]

One of my strings has snapped on my guitar, and I've decided to re-string the whole thing, as it's had the same strings for 40 years, and doesn't sound so good. Anyway, I went on EBay, and was overwhelmed by all the different types of acoustic strings, and have no idea what to get. They all mention different guages (?) and materials and I'm totally lost!! I just need some good all-rounders to strum the odd pop song!

[ludwig]

There's basically nylon (classical/spanish guitar only) or steel strings (everything else).

The gauge indicates the thickness of the string. It's just down to personal preference whether you like a heavey (thick) or light (thin) gauge.

Best bet is to go to your local music shop and ask for a set of acoustic guitar strings medium gauge, not too expensive - if you haven't changed them for 40 years, you shouldn't be too bothered about getting the best quality.

[Dr Wu]

Just pop into your local guitar shop and ask for a pack of "bronze tens" (010 gauge) and you'll be fine!

Martin strings are nice if they have 'em otherwise any will do.

........40 years, sheesh!!!!!!!

[GEEMAC]

After 40 years, rubber bands and garden twine would be an improvement! The main difference, as ludwig pointed out, is whether it is steel strung or nylon strung. And it does make a difference, think of them as different instruments as they are strung differently. If you haven't taken the strings off in such a long time it may be a good idea to give your guitar a bit of a clean. I would also suggest that if it is a reasonably good instrument you might want to take it to a guitar shop to be 'set up'. Basically a service but they will make adjustments to the action, cleaning the frets etc. This should cost about �20-�30 but is a sound investment as it will make your instrument easier to play and sound better too. The better it sounds, the more you will want to play and the more you play the better you will be.
For the record, I like to use 'Elixir' strings which are great and I just use a medium guage. I don't even know what size.
Good luck, whatever you do will be an improvement. Oh and one more tip, change your strings regularly : )