Question:
I have a year old Yamaha F550 acoustic guitar. When do you know its time to change the strings ? My guitar doesn't sound as crisp as it used to anymore. It sounds a little muffled. Do steel strings make a difference in the crispness ?
Answer:
He has a good site which addresses string changing. See http://www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/reference/techsheets.html It might be wise to bring your guitar with you to the store for this first set of strings since you'll want to buy strings of similar gauge (diameter). Steel strings are made out of different materials, Phos-Bronze, 80/20, Silk&Steel, coated strings et c. which may sound very different. Different manufacturers use slightly different amalgams, and manufacturing processes so different brands sound different. The lower strings come flat wound or round wound. Electric guitar strings are different from acoustic guitar strings. I'd recommend getting the same string gauge. Phos-Bronze is the most popular string type and is usually what comes on new guitars. Coated strings are supposed to last longer than uncoated strings. Flat wound strings are quieter and are used mostly in jazz You guitar will sound much better with a fresh set of strings. I'd recommend D'Addario, Phos-Bronze as a good start. Everytime you replace the strings try something new and keep notes. Eventually you'll settle on the right strings for your guitar and style. Don't forget to buy a peg winder. You'll also want a set of wire cutters to trim the strings. You can download a guitar tuner program at http://www.f1pick.com/apgt.html
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