Best Guitar String Gauges for Each Tuning

TL;DR: At a Glance

Choosing the right guitar string gauge for different tunings is essential for maintaining proper tension, tone, and playability. Heavier strings are better for lower tunings like Drop C or Drop B, while lighter strings work well for standard tuning and shorter scale length guitars. Refer to the Guitar String Gauges for Different Tunings reference table for recommendations.

Finding the right guitar string gauges for each tuning can be challenging, especially when exploring alternate tunings. Below, I’ve compiled an easy reference guide of popular guitar tunings and the recommended guitar string gauges for each tuning.

Guitar string gauge tuning chart

TuningNotesString GaugesString PackString PackComments
StandardE, A, D, G, B, E10-46Ernie Ball Regular Slinky
Drop DD, A, D, G, B, E10-52Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottom
Drop C#C#, G#, C#, F#, A#, D#11-54Ernie Ball Beefy Slinky
Drop CC, G, C, F, A, D11-56Ernie Ball Not Even Slinky
Drop BB, F#, B, E, G#, C#12-16-24w-34-42-62Ernie Ball Mammoth Slinky
Replace the 48 with 42*
Ernie Ball Super Slinky
Throw away the 9 add 62
*Standard Tension Evertune bridge won’t tune 48 up to F#. Tension is too high.
Drop A#A#, F, A#, D#, G, C12-62Ernie Ball Mammoth Slinky
Drop AA, E, A, D, F#, B12-68Ernie Ball Baritone Slinky
7-String StandardB, E, A, D, G, B, E10-62Ernie Ball 7-String Regular Slinky
7-String Drop A#A#, F, A#, D#, G#, C, E#10-3-17-26-36-46-64Ernie Ball 7-String Regular Slinky
Replace 56 with 64
Ernie Ball Regular Slinky
Get a 6 string pack and add 64
7-String Drop AA, E, A, D, G, B, E11-14-18-28-38-48-70Ernie Ball 7-String Power Slinky
Replace 58 with 70
Ernie Ball Power Slinky
Get a 6 string pack and add 70
May have difficulty fitting the 70 gauge in the tuning peg.
7-String Drop G#G#, D#, G#, C#, F#, A#, D#11-74Ernie Ball Beefy Slinky
6 string pack, add 74
May have difficulty fitting some strings in the tuning pegs
7-String Drop GG, D, G, C, F, A, D13-74Ernie Ball 7-String Skinny Top Heavy Bottom
Throw away 10 add 74
Ernie Ball 8-String Regular Slinky
Get an 8 string pack throw away the 10
May have difficulty fitting some strings in the tuning pegs

What are guitar string gauges?

Guitar string gauges refer to the thickness of guitar strings, measured in thousandths of an inch. The gauge affects the string’s feel, tone, and tension. They are often specified as a set (e.g., “10-46”) or for individual strings (e.g., “.010” for a high E string).

Why Guitar String Gauges for Each Tuning Matter

Understanding guitar string gauges for each tuning is important because your string gauge influences not only how your guitar sounds but also how it feels to play.

Guitar String Tension

The main reason string gauge is important is tension. Using the wrong gauge for a specific tuning can lead to strings that are either too loose and floppy or too tight, potentially causing them to break.

Heavier strings are crucial for maintaining proper tension, especially in lower tunings like Drop C or Drop B, where they prevent the strings from feeling too slack. For guidance, refer to the Guitar String Gauges Tuning Chart above.

Guitar Tone

Lighter Guitar Strings: Produce a brighter, more articulate sound but may lack depth and warmth, especially in lower tunings. Choosing the right guitar string gauges for each tuning can ensure clarity without sacrificing tonal richness.

Heavier Guitar Strings: Deliver a fuller, richer tone with a better low-end response, making them ideal for heavier genres like metal and rock. When tuning down (e.g., Drop C or Drop B), refer to the recommended string gauges for each tuning in the table above.

Guitar Playability

Light Guitar String Gauges: Easier to bend and fret, which makes them great for lead guitarists or players who love fast solos and intricate techniques. However, they can feel too loose in lower tunings, highlighting the importance of selecting the right guitar string gauges for each tuning.

Heavier Guitar Strings: Offer more resistance, which provides better control for rhythm playing, strumming, and maintaining tuning.

Guitar Scale Length Compatibility

Your guitar’s scale length and setup also influence how string gauges perform in different tunings.

Short Scale Guitars(< 25.5in): Strings will feel looser at the same gauge, requiring heavier strings for correct tension in lower tunings. Selecting the correct string gauges for your tuning is important to avoid fret buzz.

Long Scale Guitars (> 25.5in): Handle heavier gauges better, making them suitable for down-tuning.

Finding the Right Balance

The key is to choose a string gauge that complements your playing style, preferred tuning, and guitar tension. Experiment with different gauges to find what feels and sounds best for your needs. You might like slightly higher tension in the low strings for rhythm playing and looser tension in the higher strings for solos.

Troubleshooting Common Issue with Guitar String Gauges for Each Tuning

Selecting the right guitar string gauges for each tuning can make a significant difference in your playing. Here’s a troubleshooting guide for common problems and how to address them:

1. Buzzing Strings

Problem: Strings buzz against the frets, especially in lower tunings.
Possible Cause: String gauge is too light for the tuning, resulting in insufficient tension.

Solution: Switch to a heavier gauge to increase tension and reduce buzz. Switch to a heavier gauge to increase tension and reduce buzz. Refer to the Guitar String Gauge Tuning Chart for the appropriate gauge.

Check and adjust the neck relief or action. A professional setup might be necessary if the issue persists.

2. Hard-to-Press Strings

Problem: Strings feel too stiff and are difficult to fret or bend.
Possible Cause: Heavier string gauges may be too challenging to play, especially on shorter scale guitars.

Solution: Experiment with lighter string gauges and consult the Guitar String Gauge Tuning Chart section to ensure proper tension for your setup.

Lower the action slightly by adjusting the bridge or truss rod, ensuring it doesn’t cause buzzing.

3. Tuning Instability

Problem: Strings frequently go out of tune, especially after bending or playing in alternate tunings.
Possible Cause: String gauge isn’t appropriate for the tuning, leading to uneven tension.

Solution: Use string gauges suitable for your tuning to maintain proper tension. Refer to the chart in the “Guitar String Gauge Tuning Chart” section.

Ensure the nut slots are properly filed to fit the strings without binding. Lubricating the nut and bridge points can also improve tuning stability.

4. Dull Tone or Poor Sustain

Problem: Strings lack brightness or resonance, especially in lower tunings.
Possible Cause: Strings might be too heavy for your guitar’s scale length, resulting in excessive tension and a choked tone. Old or worn-out strings can lose their tonal clarity.

Solution: Experiment with lighter gauges to enhance brightness and sustain, especially on shorter scale guitars.

Replace old strings regularly to maintain optimal tone.

Adjust your setup and consult the Guitar String Gauge Tuning Chart to find lighter gauges that enhance sustain.

Addressing these common issues will help you optimise your setup for the best sound and playability, ensuring your guitar setup is suited for your preferred tunings.

Tips for Choosing Guitar String Gauges for Each Tuning

Experiment with different guitar string gauges for each tuning to discover which works best for your playing style and sound preferences. start with the recommended gauges in the table above and adjust based on your tone and feel preferences.

Match Gauges to Your Playing Style. Lead Players often opt for lighter gauges (e.g., 9-42) for easier bending and fast fretting. Rhythm Players often like heavier gauges (e.g., 11-56) that provide tighter low-end and better stability. Or opt for a heavy bottom skinny top combination.

Consider Your Guitar Scale Length. Short Scale Guitars tend to feel looser with the same string gauge compared to longer scale guitars. Long Scale Guitars handle heavier strings better, ideal for down-tunings.

Think About Tone. Finding the right balance between tone and feel depends on choosing the correct guitar string gauges for each tuning. Heavier strings provide a warmer tone, which is ideal for down-tunings and genres like metal.

Change strings regularly to maintain consistent tone and feel.

Using an Evertune Bridge

When paired with an Evertune bridge, selecting the right guitar string gauges for each tuning ensures consistent tension. The Evertune bridge is a revolutionary system that keeps your guitar perfectly in tune under almost any conditions. When using an Evertune-equipped guitar, choosing the right string gauge is crucial, particularly when recording for professional mixing and mastering and you want the best results possible. Choosing the wrong gauge could prevent you from tuning to your desired note. This is where the Evertune String Gauge calculator helps.

How to Use the Evertune String Gauge Calculator

Evertune provides a handy string tension calculator to help you select the perfect string gauges for your tuning, scale length, and playing style. Follow these steps to get started:

  1. Visit the Evertune Calculator: Head to the Evertune String Tension Calculator on their official website.
  2. Input Your Details:
    • Select your guitar’s scale length
    • Enter the string gauge you prefer.
    • Choose the note you wish to tune to.
  3. Analyse the Results:
    • The calculator will tell you if you require Standard Tension, Low Tension or High Tension Evertune modules.
    • If High or Low tension modules are recommended, experiment with different string gauges until a standard module is recommended.

Benefits of Evertune with Optimal String Gauges

  • Consistent Tuning: With balanced tension, your Evertune bridge will maintain flawless tuning stability.
  • Playability: Proper gauges prevent strings from feeling too loose or overly tight.
  • Improved Tone: Balanced string tension contributes to even tonal response across all strings.

By combining the Evertune bridge with the correct string gauges, you can focus entirely on your playing without worrying about tuning issues.

Guitar String Gauges for Each Tuning Tips for Beginners

If you’re just starting out, choosing the right string gauges and tunings can feel overwhelming. Here are some practical tips to help you get started:

1. Start Simple: Standard Tuning and Regular Gauges

Begin with standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E) and a set of regular gauge strings (10-46). This combination offers a balanced feel, allowing you to build finger strength and develop proper technique.

2. Focus on Comfort and Playability

Opt for lighter gauges if regular strings feel too stiff. For example, 9-42 strings are easier to press and bend. Avoid heavy gauge strings until you’ve developed enough finger strength, as they can be harder to play and might discourage consistent practice.

3. Avoid Extreme Tunings

Stick to standard tuning or Drop D until you’re comfortable with the basics. Jumping between other tunings while learning can make playing unnecessarily complex and confusing. Experiment with alternate tunings gradually once you’ve mastered standard tuning.

4. Experiment Gradually

Once you’re comfortable, explore different string gauges and tunings to find what works best for your style. Start with small changes, like moving from 10-46 to 11-48 for a richer tone, or trying Drop D tuning.

By starting simple and focusing on your comfort, you’ll build a solid foundation for exploring a variety of tunings and string gauges as you progress.

Best Guitar String Gauges for 6-String Tunings

Explore guitar string gauges for each tuning below to find the perfect match for each specific tuning.

Guitar String Gauges for Standard Tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E)

Recommended Gauges: 10-46
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball Regular Slinky

Guitar String Gauges for Drop D Tuning (D, A, D, G, B, E)

Recommended Gauges: 10-52
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottom

Guitar String Gauges for Drop C# Tuning (C#, G#, C#, F#, A#, D#)

Recommended Gauges: 11-56
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball Not Even Slinky

Guitar String Gauges for Drop C Tuning (C, G, C, F, A, D)

Recommended Gauges: 11-56
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball Not Even Slinky

Guitar String Gauges for Drop B Tuning (B, F#, B, E, G#, C#)

Recommended Gauges: 12-62
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball Mammoth Slinky

Guitar String Gauges for Drop A# Tuning (A#, F, A#, D#, G, C)

Recommended Gauges: 12-62
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball Mammoth Slinky

Guitar String Gauges for Drop A Tuning (A, E, A, D, F#, B)

Recommended Gauges: 12-68
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball Baritone Slinky

Best Guitar String Gauges for 7-String Tunings

Guitar String Gauges for 7-String Standard Tuning (B, E, A, D, G, B, E)

Recommended Gauges: 10-62
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball 7-String Regular Slinky

Guitar String Gauges for 7-String Drop A# (A#, F, A#, D#, G#, C, E#)

Recommended Gauges: 9-52
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball 7-String Super Slinky

Guitar String Gauges for 7-String Drop A (A, E, A, D, G, B, E)

Recommended Gauges: 11-58
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball 7-String Power Slinky

Guitar String Gauges for 7-String G# (G#, D#, G#, C#, F#, A#, D#)

Recommended Gauges: 10-62
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball 7-String Skinny Top Heavy Bottom

Guitar String Gauges for 7-String Drop G (G, D, G, C, F, A, D)

Recommended Gauges: 10-62
Recommended String Pack: Ernie Ball 7-String Skinny Top Heavy Bottom

Guitar String Gauges for Different Tunings FAQs

What string gauge is best for metal?

Heavier string gauges, like 11-56 or 12-62, are ideal for metal as they provide better tension for lower tunings and aggressive playing styles.

How do I choose guitar string gauges for different tunings?

To select the best guitar string gauges for different tunings, consider factors like your guitar’s scale length, your preferred tone, and your playing style. Refer to the table above for recommendations.

What happens if I use heavy strings on a short-scale guitar?

Using heavy strings on a short-scale guitar can result in increased tension, making the strings feel tighter and harder to play. Additionally, heavy strings may cause:
Tuning Issues: The shorter scale length may not handle extreme tension well, leading to tuning instability.
Neck Strain: Excess tension from heavy strings can stress the neck, potentially requiring truss rod adjustments.
String Breakage: High tension can lead to strings breaking more easily.

Do I need to adjust my guitar’s truss rod for different gauges?

Yes, changing string gauges often requires a truss rod adjustment to maintain proper neck relief. Here’s why:
Lighter Gauges: Reduce tension on the neck, potentially causing backbow. You may need to loosen the truss rod.
Heavier Gauges: Increase neck tension, possibly causing the neck to bow forward. You may need to tighten the truss rod.
Always make small adjustments and check your guitar’s playability after each change. If unsure, consult a professional guitar technician.

Can I mix string gauges for custom setups?

Absolutely! Mixing string gauges is common when selecting guitar string gauges for different tunings. For example, combine heavier low strings for stability in drop tunings with lighter high strings for easy bending (e.g., 10-52). Some players use specific gauges for individual strings to achieve balanced tension, for example, for drop tunings guitarists often opt for a heavier gauge on the 6th string to increase tension.

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