Strings on Hand Question/Concern

leehop71
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Location: SW Florida
Playing guitar since: 11 I'm now 64

Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 25, 2018 10:43:08 GMT -5

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Post by leehop71 on Mar 25, 2018 10:43:08 GMT -5

I know there is another String Inventory thread, but I wanted to start a little different type of thread here.

How many strings do you normally have on hand for one guitar?

I only have 2 now, the Guild and a Seagull S6 Concert. The S6 will not require that much change of strings as it sits in my office to use as a practice guitar.

The Guild is the 'gigging guitar'. I only change strings on the gigging guitar when they either start to sound dull and/or start getting out of tune, whichever comes first.

I keep my stock in a ziploc bag and was wondering how long will they stay good in a ziploc in an air conditioned enviroment?

(I'm one who likes to stay ahead of the game but only using basically one guitar that will require regular string changes)

Derick
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 25, 2018 11:39:08 GMT -5

Quote

Post by Derick on Mar 25, 2018 11:39:08 GMT -5

leehop71,

Not an easy one to answer, if you live very close to a guitar store, you really only need one new pack of guitar strings.
If you use Elixir Strings, and the packet isn't open, should last a year or two no problems.
If you use another make of uncoated string, it will depend on the environment the unused strings are kept in, as some makes of strings are packaged in sealed plastic envelopes, others just in paper envelopes.

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leehop71
New Member

Christ Follower, married with one son.

Posts: 38
AKA: jackajesusfreak
Location: SW Florida
Playing guitar since: 11 I'm now 64

Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 25, 2018 12:02:20 GMT -5

Quote

Post by leehop71 on Mar 25, 2018 12:02:20 GMT -5

Mar 25, 2018 11:39:08 GMT -5 Derick said:

leehop71 ,

Not an easy one to answer, if you live very close to a guitar store, you really only need one new pack of guitar strings.
If you use Elixir Strings, and the packet isn't open, should last a year or two no problems.
If you use another make of uncoated string, it will depend on the environment the unused strings are kept in, as some makes of strings are packaged in sealed plastic envelopes, others just in paper envelopes.

Thanks Derick. I got feedback from AGF and one said there that he keeps 4 or 5 on hand, and when he gets down to one he gets more.

That's the best plan that way, I can get best prices at Strings and Beyond and order enough to meet $35 free shipping.

TonyKgull
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 25, 2018 13:30:23 GMT -5 ancient1 likes this

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Post by TonyKgull on Mar 25, 2018 13:30:23 GMT -5

leehop71, I use Elixers exclusively, so I keep 2 or 3 packs in my "inventory." When I get down to one pack, I plan to buy more.

I have 1 stage guitar as well so that's the one that's my main concern. But, I do like all 3 sounding nice so I don't let any of them get too bad.

With my beloved Elixers, my environmental conditions really don't matter, cuz, well, they're Elixers. lol. So basically, I only change them when they've been worn out by playing. That can be a soon as 6 to 8 months or as long as 2 years.

I haven't had to change strings ever because of a string break because I use light gauge strings exclusively as well. Ever since I switched to those (over 12 years ago), I've yet to break a string; which is saying a lot cuz I'm a very aggressive strummer in my style of playing.

=====================================
"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will
give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I
am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your
souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
- Jesus, from Matthew 11:28-30

Deleted
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 25, 2018 14:56:43 GMT -5

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Post by Deleted on Mar 25, 2018 14:56:43 GMT -5

I usually have one or two fresh, unopened packs in every guitar case. If I change strings or have to break a pack because I broke a string on stage, then I get another new pack.

Having more just seems overkill to me (unless, of course, you got a great price on a bundle).

Last Edit: Mar 26, 2018 7:25:59 GMT -5 by Deleted

Jim
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 25, 2018 16:20:32 GMT -5

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Post by Jim on Mar 25, 2018 16:20:32 GMT -5

Mar 25, 2018 14:56:43 GMT -5 @sleigh said:

I usually have on or two fresh, unopened packs in every guitar case. If I change strings or have to break a pack because I broke a string on stage, then I get another new pack.

Having more just seems overkill to me (unless, of course, you got a great price on a bundle).

Yes @sleigh , Years ago I used to get Larivee strings by the dozen because I got a really good deal at Ed's Music Workshop, but I don't think they (Larivee) sell strings any more.
Now I keep a couple of packs in each case and I get a teacher's discount at the L&M store where I teach.
I also have a bunch of many kinds of strings left over that I bought very cheaply when a local music store went under. I got guitar, acoustic and electric, 12-string, banjo, mandolin, ukulele and even have a set of fiddle strings that were thrown in. I had some pedal steel strings that I gave away since I'll never own a pedal steel.
I've used up the guitar and banjo strings but still have some of the others left. I'm not sure what the shelf life is.

Last Edit: Mar 25, 2018 16:24:49 GMT -5 by Jim

-1962 Martin D-21
-1950 Gibson LG1
-1958 Goya M-26
-1974 Yamaha FG75 high strung
-A number of banjos, mandolins, Autoharps, ukuleles, dulcimers, mouth harps, a Tele clone and various other stuff.
-I own a fiddle, but only play it when Maggie and the cats are all out of the house.

RobertW
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 25, 2018 17:20:08 GMT -5

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Post by RobertW on Mar 25, 2018 17:20:08 GMT -5

I don't keep my string in cases.

I never buy big packs but do sometime buy specials.I have one or two sets for the 'other' instruments' Baritone, mandolin and banjo. There are even some elixers in there.
I don't have a set of 12's spare..something I have yake of...the Coastline wears Cleartones right now.

For the 5 guitars, I have 11 packs, with some reserved for certain guitar. 3 packs of Martin SP Cleartones (one in medium!), 2 Nickle Bronze, 2 Aluminum Bronze both Light and Custom Light.

Then there's these two packs of free strings, Dunlop and Black Diamond...maybe I use them the make nut files

Since I've been experimenting with different types of strings, I now keep the empty packs marked with which guitar they at on and when then were put on.

So other than the 12 string, I'm good with at least 2 pack for every instrument!
time to visit S&B. why didn't I look for 12s when I ordered last week

umm anyone try RED copper-bronze strings??? the 12s are out of stock but the 6 string are on sale. Seem to be 85/20

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Martin GPCPA5K Stika Spruce/Koa HDL/Birch Stratabond/Morado Fretboard (2015)
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ladyssolo
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 25, 2018 17:36:39 GMT -5

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Post by ladyssolo on Mar 25, 2018 17:36:39 GMT -5

I keep a couple packs per guitar, (and mandolin and violin,) the last time I broke a string was when I was changing strings and as I was tightening the high E-string it broke. I've never broken one when playing that I can remember, usually happens when tuning for some reason - I think sometimes during manufacture, well, anything manufactured can be defective. But I have only broken three strings in probably the last 10 years if I remember correctly. If I ever play away from home I stick a pack in my case, otherwise my strings are all at home.

TonyKgull
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 26, 2018 3:18:19 GMT -5

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Post by TonyKgull on Mar 26, 2018 3:18:19 GMT -5

Mar 25, 2018 17:36:39 GMT -5 ladyssolo said:

I keep a couple packs per guitar, (and mandolin and violin,) the last time I broke a string was when I was changing strings and as I was tightening the high E-string it broke. I've never broken one when playing that I can remember, usually happens when tuning for some reason.....

Actually that has happened to me too. It only happened twice and both times it was only with Ernie Ball strings, that's why I never touch that brand now. Never was more frustrated that I can think of than having brand new strings snap on me and they're not even close to up to tune yet. Haven't had any problems with any other brands that I can remember though so that's good.

=====================================
"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will
give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I
am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your
souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
- Jesus, from Matthew 11:28-30

RobertW
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Playing guitar since: the early 60's with a 20 year hiatus during 80s-90s.

Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 26, 2018 5:47:46 GMT -5

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Post by RobertW on Mar 26, 2018 5:47:46 GMT -5

Mar 26, 2018 3:18:19 GMT -5 TonyKgull said:

Mar 25, 2018 17:36:39 GMT -5 ladyssolo said:

I keep a couple packs per guitar, (and mandolin and violin,) the last time I broke a string was when I was changing strings and as I was tightening the high E-string it broke. I've never broken one when playing that I can remember, usually happens when tuning for some reason.....

Actually that has happened to me too. It only happened twice and both times it was only with Ernie Ball strings, that's why I never touch that brand now. Never was more frustrated that I can think of than having brand new strings snap on me and they're not even close to up to tune yet. Haven't had any problems with any other brands that I can remember though so that's good.

I used to change strings one at time because if I didn't have the 2ed reference tone, I would end up tuned the 1st an octave higher..and ping..gone
Of course today we have smartphone tuners which tell us not only pitch but also cents and most important to me, Octave.

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Seagull Coastline Cedar 12 Cedar/Cherry (2015)
Ibanez Artwood Parlour 2 AVN3-NT Spruce/Mahogany (2015)
Martin GPCPA5K Stika Spruce/Koa HDL/Birch Stratabond/Morado Fretboard (2015)
Gretsch Mahogany Boxcar Round-Neck Resonator (2015)
Alvarez ABT60 Baritone Spruce/Mahogany (2016)
Sigma 000M-15 Mahogany, Rosewood Fretboard (2018)

ladyssolo
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 26, 2018 18:08:05 GMT -5

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Post by ladyssolo on Mar 26, 2018 18:08:05 GMT -5

Mar 26, 2018 5:47:46 GMT -5 RobertW said:

Mar 26, 2018 3:18:19 GMT -5 TonyKgull said:

Actually that has happened to me too. It only happened twice and both times it was only with Ernie Ball strings, that's why I never touch that brand now. Never was more frustrated that I can think of than having brand new strings snap on me and they're not even close to up to tune yet. Haven't had any problems with any other brands that I can remember though so that's good.

I used to change strings one at time because if I didn't have the 2ed reference tone, I would end up tuned the 1st an octave higher..and ping..gone
Of course today we have smartphone tuners which tell us not only pitch but also cents and most important to me, Octave.

I always tune to piano, pitch pipe, or (now) electronic tuner, so I didn't have that excuse. And I couldn't tell you what brand of strings it was, it's been so long ago the last time it happened. But I remember it happening, it very much annoyed me too.

TonyKgull
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 27, 2018 3:10:17 GMT -5

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Post by TonyKgull on Mar 27, 2018 3:10:17 GMT -5

RobertW , said, "I used to change strings one at time because if I didn't have the 2ed reference tone, I would end up tuned the 1st an octave higher..and ping..gone
Of course today we have smartphone tuners which tell us not only pitch but also cents and most important to me, Octave."

I've only used 2 things in my life really to tune my guitars. Started out with a pitch pipe (I still have it lying around here somewhere!), then went to electronic tuners as soon as I could (a Yamaha electronic tuner and then the Snark). That's it. They always kept me from tuning any string too high.

Right from the get go learning guitar and to this day, I've always preferred to have an absolute reference and not a relative one. Guess that comes from working in a shop most of my life. lol.

=====================================
"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will
give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I
am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your
souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
- Jesus, from Matthew 11:28-30

Derick
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Posts: 7,594

Location: Staffordshire UK
Playing guitar since: Way back yonder.

Strings on Hand Question/Concern Mar 27, 2018 3:31:50 GMT -5

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Post by Derick on Mar 27, 2018 3:31:50 GMT -5

The only time I can remember breaking a new string, was when using an electronic tuner, talking and not concentrating, and turning the wrong tuning peg. 😀

Faith Mercury, Parlour Guitar.
Tanglewood TW40 Sundance Historic, 12 freter. Solid Spruce top, Mahogany back and sides.
Takamine GY93E-Nat, Parlour Guitar, solid Spruce top.
Epiphone ES339, semi acoustic Electric guitar,
Fender Mex Stratocaster, White with Maple neck.
PRS se Custom, 24 fret, Mahogany back with Maple cap.
Tanglewood TW 45 Re Sundance Reserve, All solid wood, Cedar Top,Mahogany back and sides.

Greg Ballantyne
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Strings on Hand Question/Concern Apr 1, 2018 9:30:38 GMT -5 RobertW likes this

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Post by Greg Ballantyne on Apr 1, 2018 9:30:38 GMT -5

I've never had shelf life issues with strings, but I also change them relatively often. However, that wasn't always the case - I've fitted strings that had been in the case for 10+ years (they were Martin Bluegrass stings if I recall) and they sounded fine. If the string package is kept in an environment that a guitar can be kept in, the shelf life should be somewhere towards indefinite, in my experience.

I mainly buy Elixir Nanowebs, HD lights and mediums, and d'Addario EJ16s these days. The Elixirs for my Taylors and the EJ16s on my other guitars. If my stock gets down to one spare set for any type I'm a little late ordering more....

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Post by leehop71 on Mar 25, 2018 10:43:08 GMT -5

Post by Derick on Mar 25, 2018 11:39:08 GMT -5

Post by leehop71 on Mar 25, 2018 12:02:20 GMT -5

Post by TonyKgull on Mar 25, 2018 13:30:23 GMT -5

Post by Deleted on Mar 25, 2018 14:56:43 GMT -5

Post by Jim on Mar 25, 2018 16:20:32 GMT -5

Post by RobertW on Mar 25, 2018 17:20:08 GMT -5

Post by ladyssolo on Mar 25, 2018 17:36:39 GMT -5

Post by TonyKgull on Mar 26, 2018 3:18:19 GMT -5

Post by RobertW on Mar 26, 2018 5:47:46 GMT -5

Post by ladyssolo on Mar 26, 2018 18:08:05 GMT -5

Post by TonyKgull on Mar 27, 2018 3:10:17 GMT -5

Post by Derick on Mar 27, 2018 3:31:50 GMT -5

Post by Greg Ballantyne on Apr 1, 2018 9:30:38 GMT -5

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