Which strings for slide?

Hi, I`d be interested to read peoples views as to which strings they use for their builds. I generally use thin electrics, but sometimes get asked to do builds for people using thicker acoustic strings (phosphor bronze seems to be a favourite). Any preferences?

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  • I usually build acoustic 3 stringers. And I like the A,E,A tuning or close to it. So I try to use bronze wound on the top 2 strings. 46,36,18. or whatever i have that is close. I find its hard to get by any thinner than a 16 on the bottom string.Just sounds too bright.Or thin. I have had less luck with wound bottom strings.I usually tune them in E and it gets a much darker sound.Maybe my scale is too long for wound bottom strings? I dont know.Im still learning these things.
  • I use heavy ass strings. My last box I used 64,32,26,13. It really depends on what tone you like,fat and juicy or thin and crispy. I prefer fat and juicy
  • i've just fitted new strings to my reso tonight , opted for 36 ,26 ,17 ,13 middle four strings from the set (2221) Ernie ball Regular Slinky Nickel wound because i also have a mag pickup , tuned to G,C.g,c sounds sweet ry cooder sound
    juju.
  • Interesting point. I'll try that. Do the higher gauge strings make a deeper or louder tone? I have used Ernie Ball Earthwood Mediums on my acoustic 6 string and notice the tone and volume.

    One String Willie said:
    My preference is for medium weight acoustic strings for slide. With lighter weight strings I am concerned that the slide will "bottom out" on the fingerboard. This is more of a concern (to me) on an electric which typically has a lower action. My store-bought solid body electric has fairly heavy strings (GHS nickel boomers or rockers) as well since I play mostly slide on that guitar.

    Best regards, Willie
  • My preference is for medium weight acoustic strings for slide. With lighter weight strings I am concerned that the slide will "bottom out" on the fingerboard. This is more of a concern (to me) on an electric which typically has a lower action. My store-bought solid body electric has fairly heavy strings (GHS nickel boomers or rockers) as well since I play mostly slide on that guitar.

    Best regards, Willie
  • I like slippery strings for slide ! Less friction ;)
  • Light (12ga) acoustic. Cheapest I can find here in the states. Usually at a store called WalMart. I use the DGBe strings but that's just be. Could use the ADGB strings.
  • I just splurged on some Reso strings that are ground flatter for a lap steel I'm making. They are relatively heavy and made to be tuned GBDgbd. I haven't finished the build yet but I'll be sure to post how they are.
  • I haqve seen most people use light to medium bronze A,D,G strings and Sam likes the E,A,D heavy strings. More or less it's what you like and most use acoustic strings for CBG's
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