[heavyjeffd]

I've been using D'Addario's forever in the .010-.056 set. I usually buy them in bulk packs of a dozen (or more) as I go through at least 1-2 sets of strings a week (more than that if we are gigging or recording).

Recently I bought another bulk order of strings only to find D'Addario changed the low B to .059 up from .056.

I tried to like it (since it would be easier), but it's just slightly too heavy for me. I like to do full step bends on the low B and had no problem with it the way it was.

I ended up returning all the strings and buying a bulk pack (25 sets) of .010-.046 and 2 dozen .056 singles. It actually came out cheaper so I guess it's not all bad.

Anyone else use these strings and notice this change? Are you still using them?

Just curious what you guys thought.

[Alpo]

I started using the 10-59 set early this year, and I prefer them to 10-56 sets. I just like more tension on my low B.

[zimbloth]

Originally Posted by heavyjeffd

I've been using D'Addario's forever in the .010-.056 set. I usually buy them in bulk packs of a dozen (or more) as I go through at least 1-2 sets of strings a week (more than that if we are gigging or recording).

Dude, D'Addario 10-59 are pretty cool, but you should try Elixir NanoWeb strings. They retain their fresh sound and feel for MONTHS, even with continuous use! They also are bright and vibrant like D'Addarios. They are expensive, but like I said, they last for months longer than regular strings, and theyre also the best sounding strings around IMO. Try their 10-56, just amazing You wont be disappointed!

[heavyjeffd]

Yeah, I thought I would too, but I never had any problem honestly with low tension on my low B (and I have a heavy picking hand).

I guess because I like to bend so much and I didn't need the extra tension. :\

Originally Posted by zimbloth

Dude, D'Addario 10-59 are pretty cool, but you should try Elixir NanoWeb strings. They retain their fresh sound and feel for MONTHS, even with continuous use! They also are bright and vibrant like D'Addarios. Try their 10-56, just amazing

It's not the tone really, I break strings quickly.

I didn't like the Elixirs on eletric as they were to slick/rolly when bending.

I LOVE the acoustic strings though.

[zimbloth]

Originally Posted by heavyjeffd

It's not the tone really, I break strings quickly.

I didn't like the Elixirs on eletric as they were to slick/rolly when bending.

You probably tried the Elixir PolyWebs not Nanowebs. The Nanowebs have much less coating yet still last as long. Also, there's no reason to ever break a string. Something definitely isn't right if thats ever happening, nevertheless happening weekly. I haven't broken a string since 1999. Not to be rude, but if thats happening weekly your technique may be flawed.

[heavyjeffd]

Oh trust me, I know I have a heavy picking hand, but it just sounds better (especially with metal!). If you don't dig in you just aren't getting anything out of your guitar.

I probably average anywhere from 2-6hrs of playing per day (sometimes more) so strings just don't last long.

I've played Nano and Poly's on acoustic, I just don't care for eletric coated strings at all. Not for me. Nooo sir.

For the record, I rarely (if ever) break strings when soloing. I have had high E and B strings come unraveled at the ball a few times (twice recently, which is odd) but it's typically the low B, E or A from heavy (ie: inspried ) rhythm playing.

It doesn't bother me anyway. I prefer the feel (and sound I guess) of brand new strings. And as much as I play, I can kill a set in a few days, no problem! lol

[metalfiend666]

Ernie Ball sell a 10-56 7 string set as well.

[heavyjeffd]

I *did* try those, maybe it's just me, but do EB strings seem to have more horizontal tension (say, mostly noticeable when bending) than D'Addarios for the same gauge string?

Maybe I'm just imagining things. :\

I got a few free sets when I went to the EB factory for an Open House and honestly, just didn't like them as much. :|

[metalfiend666]

Strings are personal preference. Just thought I'd throw the option in there in case you hadn't tried them yet. I think Just String's bulk strings are D'Addario's, but someone else will confirm that.

[bibz]

Seriously theres no reason for strings to be breaking so often. Properly setup guitar, working hardware, strings properly stretched, there should be any amount if chaos available within reason. On months old ernie balls I can still do insane floyd stuff ala crossroads and 'dig in' without breakage.