Are you looking for the Best Bluegrass Guitar Strings? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Choosing the Best Bluegrass Guitar Strings can be difficult as there are so many considerations, such as Elixir Strings, Ernie Ball, D’Addario, GHS Strings, Martin, DR Strings, John Pearse. We have done a lot of research to find the top 20 Best Bluegrass Guitar Strings available.
The average cost is $9.60. Sold comparable range in price from a low of $3.99 to a high of $26.99.
Based on the research we did, we think Martin Authentic MA240 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, Bluegrass is the best overall. Read on for the rest of the great options and our buying guide, where you can find all the information you need to know before making an informed purchase.
20 Best Bluegrass Guitar Strings (20 Sellers)
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Reviewers Noted:
Sound quality
Features:
- Core: steel
- Made in: mexico
- Ending: ball end
$9.49
4.6
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality
Features:
- Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
- Martin crafted these fine monel strings to the exact specifications of legendary guitarist, tony rice.
- Made with a long lasting nickel-based alloy.
$8.99
4.6
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality
Features:
- Martin crafted these fine monel strings to the exact specifications of legendary guitarist, tony rice
- Made with a long lasting nickel-based alloy
- These strings quickly mellow to a warm vintage tone that brings out the unique, woody sounds in your acoustic guitar
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durable . Well made
Features:
- Description
- A d'addario hybrid gauge combining medium bottom strings with light top strings for a big sound with comfortable playability
- Extra-bright tone mixed with deep and projecting bottom end
$3.99
4.7
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Well made . Durability
Features:
- Gauges 12-16-25-35-45-56.
- Bronze alloy for brilliance and long life.
- Great price.
$5.89
4.2
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality
Features:
- For 6-string acoustic guitars
- 85/15 copper-zinc alloy wrap wire
- Steel hex core wire
$6.99
4.8
Reviewers Noted:
Sound quality
Features:
- Rare acoustic guitar strings utilize a phosphor bronze wrap wire over a hexagonal high-carbon steel core
- The result is warm, bright and balanced tone with an overall fatter and louder sound with a deep bottom end
- Acoustic guitars of all types seem to benefit from a distinct improvement in tone, depth, and sustain
$26.99
4.6
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durability
Features:
- Condition: new
- Brand: ernie ball
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durability
Features:
- Snappy, present tone that will cut through any mix and brighten any day
- Smooth feel, with reduced finger-noise when compared with stringjoy's uncoated strings
- Better tuning stability for the life of the string
$11.75
4.8
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality
Features:
- Bluegrass gauge
- Gauges: .012 .016 .024 .035 .045 .056
- Made in the usa
$9.58
4.6
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Craftsmanship
Features:
- Handmade guitar strings
- Very comfortable playing feel, excellent sound
- Although uncoated can be played for a very long time
$6.99
4.6
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durability
Features:
- Brightest tone and longest string life of any other phosphor bronze set
- Made in the usa with american wire
- Packaged using map technology (modified atmosphere packaging) to prevent tarnishing and ensure freshness
$12.99
4.8
Reviewers Noted:
Sound quality
Features:
- Coated acoustic guitar strings use groundbreaking nanotechnology
- Repels unwanted moisture and oils that negatively impact your tone
- Provides ultimate protection without compromising tone or feel
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durable . Well made . Visual appeal
Features:
- Natural feel with excellent projection
- Warm rich tone
- Element shield packaging prolongs string life and keeps strings as fresh as the day they were made
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durability . Craftsmanship
Features:
- Rich and warm sound with excellent projection and clarity.
- The medium gauge gives musicians a more intense sound and more tension.
- Phosphorus bronze rope spun around a hexagonal core made of high carbon steel.
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Well made . Durable
Features:
- Clear and balanced sound with excellent projection and clarity.
- Spun strings are made with 80% copper and 20% zinc wire wrapped around a brass plated steel hexagonal core.
- Made in the usa with the best materials.
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durable . Well made
Features:
- Warm, rich tone with excellent projection and clarity.
- Phosphor bronze wound on a hex-shaped, high-carbon steel core wire.
- Crafted in the usa with the freshest and finest materials.
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Well made . Durability
Features:
- Includes 3 individually wrapped sets.
- Bright, balanced tone with excellent projection and clarity.
- Wound strings are 80% copper, 20% zinc wire wrapped around high-carbon steel core wire.
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durability . Well made
Features:
- Rich and warm sound with excellent projection and clarity.
- The lightweight gauge allows for comfortable playing and freting while maintaining rich, expressive sound.
- Phosphorus bronze rope spun around a hexagonal core made of high carbon steel.
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durable . Craftsmanship
Features:
- Rich, warm sound with excellent projection and clarity.
- Extra light gauge ideal for musicians who want less tension on the strings for easier playing on the fingerboard.
- Phosphorus bronze rope spun around a high carbon steel hex core.
1. Martin Authentic Ma240 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, Bluegrass
Product Details:
Designed to cope with demanding practices and schedules. martin authentic acoustic sp 80/20 strings feature their highest tensile-strength core wire, and are tin-plated for enhanced corrosion resistance. these acoustic sp strings provide players with good tuning stability as well as a true and consistent tone, throughout gigs. manufactured with 80% copper and 20% zinc, these acoustic guitar strings yield a bright and ringing tone. these acoustic sp strings include gauge 12-16-25-35-45-56.
Specifications:
Reviews:
great use them all the timevdeel57
Great tone and playability!djm554
I really like the feel and sound of them but unfortunately I must have gotten the 1 in 100 unlucky string 🙁 My 1E string snapped on me on install, I wasn't even tuning it. Just strung it and had just got a slight bit of tension on it and twang. The B string was tighter and still not even close to being in tune. Oh well. Now I need to track down a single string.ryda6416
2. Martin Mtr13 Tony Rice Signature Bluegrass Retro Acoustic Guitar Strings
Product Details:
Such a pure tone, and you really can hear some of those subtle nuances of tony’s playing when using these strings for yourself. gauges are standard medium 13-56, and the nickel alloy mellows quickly and lasts a long time without tarnishing. tony rice is an iconic bluegrass player who during the 1960's loyally played his 1935 clarence white d-28 armed with martin monel strings. his favorite aspect of the strings were how they did not change the timber of the guitar. in the 1970's, the martin monel strings became unavailable but tony still sought out the sound of the martin monels with other manufacturers. the martin guitar sound engineers worked closely with tony to perfect and bring back the sound he so dearly loved. after hard work and dedication from both parties, tony was finally able to welcome back the sound of his old friend. the martin monel strings now bear the name "tony rice signature strings" and are part of the martin artist choice line. the nickel based alloy allows for a vintage and warm sound to flow from the sound hole beginning at the very first strum.
Specifications:
Reviews:
I put these strings on a older Alvarez guitar and all I can say is WOW what a voice change! The Martin Retro Monel Bluegrass string made my inexpensive student model guitar sound like a much higher end instrument. The clarity and sustain is so much better than the 80/20's I used to use and the life span is at least double if not triple of the 80/20's. Try a set you won't be sorry.Mark
I have been reading about pure nickel strings and I've wanted to give them a try. The Martin Retro reviews were good and if Tony Rice likes them and uses them, they must have something positive to offer. I've only had them on my dread (solid mahogany b/s and Adi top) for a couple of weeks…but I love them. I hear the tone of the guitars wood. Not too bright but also not too dark or muddy. Very mellow. Urban legend has it that they get better with age. We'll see. But they sounded good new and they guitar sounds great after two weeks. Too early to tell or comment on how long they stay this way. I will be buying more and use them again. Time to try them out on an OM.B
Replaced the dead right out of the box elixir string that SUCKED and these brought the guitar back to life and it now sounds and plays wonderfully. Highly suggested and as the string were in my box for a while and now the package has added Tony Rice's name to them even more highly suggestedDas Fuut
3. Martin Mtr13 Tony Rice Signature Bluegrass Acoustic Guitar Strings
Product Details:
Martin retro strings are the real deal. not an imitation. with martin retro strings, you get one tough set that offers true, consistent tone and sounds like nothing else on the market. martins solid nickel/copper alloy blend provides a reduced pick attack that allows the guitars tonewoods to be heard, not overshadowed. martins proprietary monel wrap wire is naturally corrosion resistant, so you can play them for a long time with nothing to get in the way of your music. discover your guitars true voice.retro strings offer enhanced longevity with warm natural tone, and they sound great plugged in.
Specifications:
Reviews:
I put these strings on a older Alvarez guitar and all I can say is WOW what a voice change! The Martin Retro Monel Bluegrass string made my inexpensive student model guitar sound like a much higher end instrument. The clarity and sustain is so much better than the 80/20's I used to use and the life span is at least double if not triple of the 80/20's. Try a set you won't be sorry.Mark
I have been reading about pure nickel strings and I've wanted to give them a try. The Martin Retro reviews were good and if Tony Rice likes them and uses them, they must have something positive to offer. I've only had them on my dread (solid mahogany b/s and Adi top) for a couple of weeks…but I love them. I hear the tone of the guitars wood. Not too bright but also not too dark or muddy. Very mellow. Urban legend has it that they get better with age. We'll see. But they sounded good new and they guitar sounds great after two weeks. Too early to tell or comment on how long they stay this way. I will be buying more and use them again. Time to try them out on an OM.B
Replaced the dead right out of the box elixir string that SUCKED and these brought the guitar back to life and it now sounds and plays wonderfully. Highly suggested and as the string were in my box for a while and now the package has added Tony Rice's name to them even more highly suggestedDas Fuut
4. D'addario Ej14 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings 12-56 Bluegrass
Product Details:
Ej14 is a light top, medium bottom 80/20 bronze set that offers light gauged top strings and medium gauged bottom strings for a perfect balance of playability and projection. 80/20 bronze, the original acoustic alloy introduced to by john d'addario sr. and john d'angelico in the 1930s is a popular alloy for recording due to their crisp, deep and projecting tone and appeal to many traditionalists and vintage enthusiasts for their historical significance.80/20 bronze is the original acoustic string alloy co-created by john d'addario sr. and john d'angelico in the 1930s. 80/20 bronze strings are popular for recording due to their bright, crisp, deep and projecting tone and appeal to many traditionalists and vintage enthusiasts for their historical significance. string winding technology string winding equipment is designed and built by d'addario's engineering team, guaranteeing a production range of 500,000 to 700,000 strings per day. digitally-controlled string winding machines ensure productivity, accuracy, and consistency. hex core construction precision drawn hexagonal core was pioneered by d'addario. this innovation allows the wrap wire to grip the core for superior dimensional stability, enhanced durability, and precise intonation. wire drawing d'addario's in-house wire drawing machines produce musical instrument wire to our exact specifications. control over materials, equipment, and quality allows us to deliver high performance products.
Specifications:
| Length | 4.75 in |
| Height | 0.45 in |
| Width | 1.72 in |
Reviews:
I loved speed, a good delivery! I'm building my own guitars and I would like to do a lot more business with you as long as the Price is Right. So far you have impressed me. Could you send me a catalog that would be great. What I mainly need is good hot pickups for both country and Rock dual coil and single coil and pickguards if you would happen to have any I'm building them in my own signature style of course, of course they are called Reed Guitars. I can get to Nick already made with fretz and truss rod for $14. But I would like to buy bodies that I can work with to give you an idea of what I looking for. Also need 3-way switches and a 5 way switch and of course potentiometers and knobs. Thank you very much. Until then you will need a friend George Reed.reedgeorge
I bought these strings today because my local store was sold out of my usual Elixir brand. I just put them on my old Gibson acoustic, and all of the ball ends are color-coded wrong, and the strings are turning my fingers black after 20 minutes of playing. They sound OK, but really? I used to be a big fan of D'addario strings for my electric guitars. These changed my mind.Page
I always get this brand of strings. They are the best! The strings are color coded for easy restringing. I usually purchase the ultra light bluegrass style and was happy to see that these are the same top notch quality. The ultra lights are a must if you want easy on the fingers. I can’t say enough good things, and you can’t wrong in buying these!Ginabug
5. Martin Bluegrass 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings – 12-56 M240
Product Details:
For 6-string acoustic guitars, round wound, steel core, 1 set. bluegrass gauge martin acoustic 80/20 bronze guitar strings feature bronzed steel core wire with 80/20 bronze wrap wire for a brighter tone than phosphor bronze. this bluegrass gauge set provides heavier bass strings for projection and medium/light treble strings for easier bending and brigher tones.
Specifications:
| Finish | Standard |
| Year | 2010s |
Reviews:
I bought these on a whim, I'm not going to lie, just didn't want to spend double-digits on "popular" strings (Elixirs, D'Addario Bronze, ect.) These things are definitely loud, have a nice hearty tone in the low end, somewhat percussive with a fast right hand. The low (top 4) strings have distinct clarity than I've heard in other strings, as in each actual note is distinguishable. The higher (bottom) 2 strings are slightly bright but cutting and somewhat crunchy sounding in a way (reminds me of a violin).In bluegrass, traditionally the guitar is for accompaniment, not necessarily melodic passages, and these strings will do the job for sure.If you're using your acoustic guitar for rhythmic reasons or as accompaniment, I'd STRONGLY suggest these. So like Country, Bluegrass, even Worship settings and some Rock settings, GREAT. Folk… maybe not as much. Classical-esque music… not a chance.Oh and they handle alternative tunings great, I currently have mine in Db-Ab-Db-Eb-Bb-C (Db9 tuning), still holds up great! Just a little lacking in volume.NickGreen91
I like these strings because of their unique sound from all the different types out there I've tried so far. Yeah, these are the sort of strings most people look at and say, "Ah, that's for rednecks" or, "I don't know if I should try it because it limits my style," but with these strings, don't judge a pack of strings by their cover! These are really just what I call "balanced set" of 12 gauge strings, to be perfectly honest, but keep following me… that's what I prefer, since I like thicker strings give that bigger sound, balancing the strong chords as well as being able to bend and "proclaim" those lead notes. It also sounds great in other acoustic styles if you want every string you play to have it's own quote-on-quote "say" in the song and not just either get too small in the background or overpoweringly high. That's what I liked personally about these. The only issue I found is that these don't last any longer than normal, maybe a little less really. But this recent pack I got really kept its sound for a while. Depends on how much you play, too. It comes down to each one's own preference. Try them out! Think about it, you can't beat the price for what you're getting. Know you're going to get a pretty unique sound that once you hear, you may not want to let go of.unbalancedforcesmusic
I've been using the strings for 20 years on my work horse rigs. The .012 to .056 is a mix of Martin light and medium light gauge string. The result is a deeper, richer, louder ring while maintaing great highs and brightness. They lend them selves to open and lower bar chord rythyms, flat-pick style leads, and sounds awesome in Drop D. I've never had any problem with them lasting. If you have a decent rig that's set-up properly, they're almost too bright the first 2 or 3 hours of play. But once they settle in, it's a nice rich balanced sound. If you like to bend strings up and down the neck, and use a lot of hammers, this string is probably not for you. But if you need a nice, rich, hold down the fort ring while you sing and hollar…this string is what you need!!!FredThaHead
6. Ghs Vn-B Bluegrass Vintage Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Product Details:
Specifications:
| Tension | Bluegrass |
| Full Set Material | 85/15 Bronze |
| Winding | Round Wound |
| Core | Hex |
Reviews:
I had been searching for years to find the strings I liked best on my 1911 Gibson L-1. I tried all kinds of acoustic strings but they all sounded so "bright" and, if this makes sense, "too modern" sounding for the Gibson. I started trying different nickel strings and had kinda settled on the Martin Retro's with the Monel Nickel wrap as the best I had found so far. Then I ran into these strings from GHS and gave them a shot. Oh man as soon as I was tightening them up I could tell these were "the ones". I don't know what it is, the materials, the core, the 85/15 blend, I don't know but these are the strings that bring out the best tone of my Gibson. I'm a fan!Moondoggie999
I just bought a new Martin OM-21 that came with the Martin SP strings. I loved this guitar from the start, but wanted to hear a little more mid and treble and less bass. I went back to the GHS Vintage Bronze I have always used on my Taylor 510. These strings are just the best for evenness of tone and equal clarity in all ranges. This guitar feels like mine now due to the GHS strings.ajdurk63
I recently came across these on sale here. I had Martin SP's (Bronzed Steel) on my Yamaha FG730 and found them to be more mellow than I would want. These, however, have crisper highs and a wider range of tones across the board. These are great strings. They made a big difference in how I want my sound to be. I will be buying more of these. Now if they would only go on sale again.part time strummer
7. Dr Rare Phosphor Bronze – Bluegrass – Acoustic Guitar Strings
Product Details:
Rare acoustic guitar strings utilize a phosphor bronze wrap wire over a hexagonal high-carbon steel core. the result is warm, bright and balanced tone with an overall fatter and louder sound with a deep bottom end. acoustic guitars of all types seem to benefit from a distinct improvement in tone, depth, and sustain.
Reviews:
I put these on my Yamaha Storia III. I have only had them on for one week so I cannot speak to how long they will last, BUT I LOVE the sound. No jangly high's and the heavier E, A and D strings give my little guitar a bigger sound. They are not rough on the fingers and string bending is still surprisingly easy. I switched from a set of silk & bronze strings to these DR Rare Bluegrass strings. I have been trying several kinds and brands of strings and I have finally found the ones that fit my taste to a Tee. Thanks DR and Strings & Beyond!Charles
My favorite strings, been using them for a few years now.jerry-guitar
These strings are the loudest i've ever used on a guitar. Give a stronger bass on the low strings, sweet highs on the skinny strings. Overall, however, I prefer other strings for the tone of the Yamaha FG730s. This is my second attempt at DR strings on my 2 guitars. Love that they're made in USA, I just seem to like other strings better on my instruments. By the way, these strings break in fast, hold there tuning, and last a long time. Price is right to try some on your own guitar and see what you think.I_likewalnuts
8. 5 Pack Ernie Ball 2063 Earthwood Acoustic 80/20 Bronze Banjo Strings 5-String Bluegrass
Product Details:
Specifications:
| Assembled Product Weight | 0.04 lbs |
Reviews:
I've been on the lookout for some thicker 12-string sets (not for down-tuning, but just so the thing puts up a bit more fight), and they're getting hard to find (most companies max out at .10's). So I was glad to stumble across these, and the price point seemed right; however, while bringing them up to tension and making requisite truss-rod adjustments, two of the new strings [high A .22w and high G .10] popped, leaving me to go shopping the next day for individual strings. Ernie Ball has long been my go-to for electric strings, and I can't say this experience rules them out for me, but I was disappointed. Will definitely be trying Martin strings the next time my 12 needs changing, as they offer even thicker strings and come recommended from several friends I've talked to since. On a final note, if you haven't tried using sets where the high A is wrapped, I'd recommend you do so; the high A has always been one of the main sources of 12-string tuning frustrations in my experience (if it sounds in tune open, it sounds off when fretted & vice versa), and having it wrapped seemed to clear a lot of that up.czdolphy
9. Stringjoy Foxwoods Light Gauge (12-54) Coated Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Product Details:
Looking for a set of acoustic strings that have just the right amount of tension, the right amount of tone, and still have enough volume to annoy your neighbors? then you need a set of our light foxwoods. these are going to work great for most guitarists, since they provide excellent low-end and midrange volume while still being easy on those calluses. foxwoods are the perfect coated phosphor bronze strings for players that love the bright, lively tone of uncoated strings, but want the extra snap and longevity of coated strings. pairing an enamel-coated wrap wire with a tinned hexagonal core, foxwoods typically provide 2-3x longer life and peak brightness compared to our uncoated strings.
Specifications:
Reviews:
I am quite happy with the Stringjoy Acoustic Strings and I'm still deciding which ones are my favorite. I recently put on the Foxwood and am now needing to record an "original guitar only song" with it on a direct track and a high end microphone track. Then I will do the same with the Naturals and also the Brights. At least I can then do a comparison but my suspicion is the I might prefer different strings for various purposes. Such being the case, I am not currently positioned to supply anyone with a FAVE RAVE!!!David F
Love these strings. I’ve had them on my Ibanez AC240 for just a couple weeks but I’m blown away! They started unremarkable (in the best sense of course) but have opened up to a nice, full, vibrant sound. They don’t feel coated, but they don’t feel fully natural either which I love. Best of both worlds! I’ve been using your string cleaner with them as well and I’m convinced these will last a good long while before needed a swap out. Going to put these on a couple other guitars as well! Thanks guys! You rocked the park with these!Garrett G
I bought both coated and uncoated versions of the Stringjoy acoustic strings in regular medium light. I now have these on 3 different guitars and plan on installing on 2 more. Have to say I don’t know how you do it but the tension on these strings seems different than anything else I’ve ever used. They just seem “comfortable†and sound fantastic. They’re pricey but worth it. Only con I can think of is they’re a bit noisy when sliding but I’m sure I’ll get used to that.David M
10. John Pearse 650lm Bluegrass Acoustic Guitar Strings – Phosphor Bronze, 12-56
Product Details:
This set is made with phosphor bronze windings for deeper bass. the term "bluegrass" on this set refers to the gauging. a bluegrass gauge combines strings 1, 2, and 3 from a light gauge set with strings 4, 5, and 6 from a medium gauge set. the result is a set that sounds much like a medium gauge (more bass, louder volume) but plays more like a light gauge (less tension, easier to bend). and since the word "bluegrass" just refers to the gauge here, you can still play acoustic rock with this set without fear of being arrested by the string police.
Specifications:
Reviews:
These strings are amazing and are quite possibly the best strings I've ever used and I've used a lot of strings especially lately. I've been in a testing phrase trying to find my "go to" strings. I've narrowed it down to the John Pearse slightly light custom gauge and the D'addario nickel bronze strings, the John Pearse seems to retain the new crisp tone longer than the nickel bronze strings though the nickel bronze and really comfortable. These are really great sounding, and have a crisp bright tone that brings out the best of your guitar. I absolutely love these strings.Patrick
Already have kept their ring better than my other brand.bassrockgolf
11. Curt Mangan Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings Light 11-52
Product Details:
Curt mangan 11-52 light acoustic guitar phosphor bronze setgauges: 11-15-22w-30-42-52phosphor bronze wound strings were introduced in the early seventies and have become the most popular acoustic string. phosphor bronze wire is made from approximately 92% copper, 7% zinc and 1% phosphorous. phosphor bronze provides nice highs and lows with pleasant subtle overtones. phosphorous is used to help reduce tarnish and corrosion.
Specifications:
| Finish | Phosphor Bronze |
| Made In | United States |
Reviews:
It has a very fundamental tone, good for mahogany guitars. But on rosewood guitars, it may kill off the overtones, which may not be right for some people. Recommended on larger guitars rather than small ones. They do last quite a long time, which helps justify the high price to an extent.J A.
recently asked curt mangan to make me up a custom set of round core monel strings in 12 string configuration. What a great set of strings. I loved monel strings on my maple bodied guitars. But when i saw they had round core available i ordered a set of 6 string strings. They were so good ,i asked about a 12 string set. They dont offer them as of yet, but rep. said they could make me up a set. i askedfor 10- 48,s round core monels, …What a great set of strings. My guild F 412 has always been a stunner tone wise with monel strings. But the round core monels enhanced that 5 x,s .. Btw, ive got over 26 hours of playing on the 6 string set. and no noticeable fall off .Dave Gover
I put these on my Gibson J-55 and man what a difference over the phosphor bronze that came stock. I have yet to put them on my '29/'31 L3 or Custom Shop martin 0018, but I really adore the sound on my J-55. The J-55 has an Adirondack top, mahogany back/sides and is essentially a Gibson version of a Martin D-18 without the super boomy low end. I love these strings and they really bring out the natural woody tone of the guitar, which is how it should be in my opinion. After using these I really like the sound, and in a weird way I'm closer to that guitar than I ever was before, the phosphor bronze that were on the guitar were just too bright and metallic, I prefer the natural earthy tones. I put this guitar in different tunings and these strings really open it up there and in standard tuning as well. I can't wait to put these on my Martin 000, I just got it so the strings on it are fresh but they're 80/20s and I really don't like them. You can't go wrong with these strings. I'm going to be using them on my acoustics forever. Just vintage, natural, woody earthy tones and I couldn't be happier!Antonio
12. La Bella 7gpb Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings Bluegrass 12-56
Product Details:
Labella's acoustic guitar sets are comprised of perfectly balanced strings and are available in a choice of many different gauges. accommodating today's acoustic players and their instruments, these varied set designs present many options for stringing. only the finest american-made materials are used — high quality plain steel and superior bronze alloys. handcrafted by skilled technicians, labella guarantees every string that leaves the factory. gauge: extra light 7gpt – 10 14 20w 28 38 50 custom light 7gpcl – 11 15 22 32 42 52 light 7gps – 12 16 22 31 41 52 medium 7gpm – 13 17 26 35 46 56 bluegrass 7gpb – 12 16 26 35 46 56 over the centuries, the problem of prolonging the life of metal strings has plagued both players and string makers. today, some manufacturers have discovered a quick fix method to prevent oxidation from occuring. they coat the metal strings with a polymer or synthetic material. this process stifles the wound string's sound production and does not guarantee a longer life. any surface treatment deadens the natural transmitting powers of the string and dampens the high overtones associated with a good wound acoustic guitar string.
Specifications:
| Full Set Material | Phosphor Bronze |
| Winding | Round Wound |
| Core | Hex |
Reviews:
These strings were purchased at MF as a trial. I have not used Labella strings for a long time. These were installed on my Takamine EF341 for a three hour show. My strings are replaced every show due to my heavier playing style and sweating. The 7PGCLs 11 gauge held up perfectly. The sound stayed consistent, no breakage and no loss of tone. This gauge of strings was easy on the fingertips and wrist. I also like the fact that they're manufactured in the USA. A thumbs up!!
I had elixir p/b 11's on my Epi masterbuilt DR500MCE and they were ok. Nice sound But, I decided. to try La Bella's P/B 11's. They have great reviews and I was changing strings anyway. WOW! What a beautiful tone mellow yet strong when you need it. There's something about the feel as well. Almost gentle to the touch but responsive. My new go to strings. I bought a set of La Bella 9's for my 12 string D'Angelico Fulton. Can't wait to try those as well. Sweetwater had them shipped out the day the order was put in and were nice enough to let me know they shipped. Got them in 3 days. Great support, great service. Thanks guys.
These are fairly typical strings in that the quality and sound are on a par with other brands, what sets them apart is that the gauges are perfect and flatten out that tension hump in the middle of the set. These are essentially 11-52s with a beefed up first and second string so if you prefer a softer feel on the wound strings but a bit more resistance in the trebles, these will do the trick.Paul B.
13. Ernie Ball Everlast Coated 80/20 Bronze Light Acoustic Guitar Strings
Product Details:
Everlast is the long-life treatment from ernie ball. its a nano-treatment applied to the surface of both the core wire and outer wrap wire which repels moisture, oils and grime. the steel hex core wire is brass-plated which adds to and enhances the bright, vibrant tone of these 80/20 bronze strings. they dont feel remotely coated yet that resounding clarity is retained for weeks and weeks. great strings with an unmistakable, archetypal ernie ball acoustic tone. ernie says: engineered to maximize output and clarity, ernie ball cobalt slinky guitar strings are the latest innovation in string technology. seeking to provide guitarists and bassists with a new voice, cobalt strings provide an extended dynamic range, incredible harmonic response, increased low end, and crisp, clear highs. cobalt provides a stronger magnetic relationship between pickups and strings than any other alloy previously available. cobalt slinkys are also soft and silky to the touch, making string bending a breeze.
Specifications:
Reviews:
Every guitarist knows what he likes. I was satisfied with the product and value.lywill-41
14. Ernie Ball 2003 Earthwood Acoustic Guitar Strings, Medium Light
Product Details:
Reviews:
Tried these on a friend's recommendation and I'm not disappointed. I put these on a nearly new Gibson J45 Studio and was happy the strings that came new on the guitar were gone. These sound so much sweeter. It's only been a few weeks but I think they'll last as long as most strings (usually a D'Addario user). A normal set is 12-53, for some reason these are 12-54 but I couldn't notice much difference on the larger 6th string. Try a set.mmall001
I just recently picked my guitar back up after about 20 years of not playing. I have Gibson Hummingbird that I always had and the did use Martin strings on. I really got the bug about playing and ended up buying a Yamaha R 700 as well as a Seagull S6 (with a Seagull Artist Mosaic on the way). While talking to Josh on MF one day about strings he told me about these Earthwoods–lighter gauge–.11-.52. He swore by them. I had a credit with MF so I bought two sets. They are as good on my Seagull S6 as the Martin's ever were and easier to play (I finger pick mostly) and the combination of the full sound of the S6 and the Ernie Ball Earthwoods is a perfect combination. I've had them on for three weeks already and play sever hours every day and they still sound bright and full of tone. I put the other set on my Yamaha just recently and they sound as good as the Martins ever did. Whether they will remain crisp remains to be seen (each guitar is different). But in anticipation of getting my Seagull Artist Mosaic soon I've decided to buy four 6 packs of the Ernie Ball Earthwood Strings with my certificate from Backstage pass. I couldn't ask for a sweeter deal than that.KB
15. Ernie Ball Earthwood Medium Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings – 13-56
Product Details:
Ernie ball earthwood acoustic guitar strings are produced with an exclusive phosphor bronze wrap wire (made from 92% copper, 7.7% tin, 0.3% phosphorus wire). engineered to meet the demands of acoustic musicians worldwide, these concert quality strings provide deep, rich bass notes with clear bright trebles. ernie ball slinky acoustics are played by the counting crows, the edge, and maroon 5 amongst many other touring musicians. made with the finest and freshest raw materials, all ernie ball strings are hermetically sealed to ensure your strings stay as fresh as the day they were made. ernie ball earthwood acoustic guitar strings are produced with an exclusive phosphor bronze wrap wire (made from 92% copper, 7.7% tin, 0.3% phosphorus wire). engineered to meet the demands of acoustic musicians worldwide, these concert quality strings provide deep, rich bass notes with clear bright trebles. ernie ball slinky acoustics are played by the counting crows, the edge, and maroon 5 amongst many other touring musicians. made with the finest and freshest raw materials, all ernie ball strings are hermetically sealed to ensure your strings stay as fresh as the day they were made.
Reviews:
16. Ernie Ball 2008 Earthwood Rock & Blues Acoustic Guitar Strings 80/20 Bronze
Product Details:
Earthwood is the legendary acoustic guitar strings faction of ernie ball – the most famous guitar strings brand in the world. these strings are made using the bright, loud, and crisp sounding 80/20 bronze wrap wire over tin-plated steel hex core. they'll feel slinky and responsive while offering good tension for big chords. earthwood strings are consistently the acoustic guitar standard. earthwood is the legendary acoustic guitar strings faction of ernie ball – the most famous guitar strings brand in the world. these strings are made using the bright, loud, and crisp sounding 80/20 bronze wrap wire over tin-plated steel hex core. they'll feel slinky and responsive while offering good tension for big chords. earthwood strings are consistently the acoustic guitar standard.
Reviews:
These are the slickest, most comfortable strings. I bought them to put on a PRS Angelus SE and be able to do those David Gilmore bends on an acoustic. For that, they are awesome. Bendiest, easy to slide acoustic strings I have ever tried. Great for all those single note lead lines. The bass strings are also heavy enough to still give some oomph. The problem is when you come out of those lead lines to do any rhythmic strumming-the tone is bright, brash, tinny and very G forward. I want to like these strings for their play-ability and keep trying them to see if they'll break in, but always leave disappointed. For reference, my PRS is already a little brighter in a Taylor sort of way than my other guitars. I usually play Santa Cruz Low Tension Parabolics on my Santa Cruz OM, and Martin Life Span on my Martin 0015. The brashness is muted a little if amplified.Jonah
Bought these as replacements on my Taylor guitar. I was surprised at the quality of the strings, the incredible tone and that they didn't stretch A LOT when new (meaning I didn't have to retune after every song…I let the rest for about 4 hours and tune them up before performing). And, they were made in the USA. Highest possible recommendation!Amy
17. Ernie Ball Earthwood Rock & Blues Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Product Details:
Ernie ball earthwood acoustic guitar strings are produced with an exclusive phosphor bronze wrap wire (made from 92% copper, 7.7% tin, 0.3% phosphorus wire). engineered to meet the demands of acoustic musicians worldwide, these concert quality strings provide deep, rich bass notes with clear bright trebles. ernie ball slinky acoustics are played by the counting crows, the edge, and maroon 5 amongst many other touring musicians. made with the finest and freshest raw materials, all ernie ball strings are hermetically sealed to ensure your strings stay as fresh as the day they were made. ernie ball earthwood acoustic guitar strings are produced with an exclusive phosphor bronze wrap wire (made from 92% copper, 7.7% tin, 0.3% phosphorus wire). engineered to meet the demands of acoustic musicians worldwide, these concert quality strings provide deep, rich bass notes with clear bright trebles. ernie ball slinky acoustics are played by the counting crows, the edge, and maroon 5 amongst many other touring musicians. made with the finest and freshest raw materials, all ernie ball strings are hermetically sealed to ensure your strings stay as fresh as the day they were made.
Reviews:
I hate to give a bad review of Earthwood because I've played and loved the other Earthwood strings; however I tried these Rock & Blues strings on my Taylor as well as my Fender Sonoran and was not happy at all with the sound. For me I think it is the fact that the g-string is like an electric string and not wound like an acoustic string. Because of that, when I strum the whole acoustic sound is "off". Sure the string is easier to bend for lead, but to me it's not worth the trade off of having a bad sound when strumming.Strums the Word
If you have soft, weak hands, don't even bother unless you wanna toughen them up. If you want a warm tone, these strings give you the warmth that's expected from these gauges and the 80/20 is the difference. Perfect for that Country or Classic Rock sound. You definitely get the 'new string' sound starting off and the sound only gets better. They also stretch fine for open tunings such as open E which I love for slide playing, steel or glass. To my ears, bare-finger picking and medium gauge picks bring out the best in these strings.
I use to buy Martin Marquis strings but the price went up and I thought I would try these Ernie Ball strings. I put a set on my guitar yesterday evening and they sound good. I like buying the packs of strings instead of single packs. We will see if they have a long or short life. The sound is great.Hunter Dan
18. Ernie Ball Earthwood Light 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings 3-Pack
Product Details:
The ernie ball earthwood light 11-52 guitar strings is a three pack of the highest standard manufactured strings. thanks to their 11-52 gauges, these strings deliver a bright and balanced tone, packed with crisp and pleasant highs. due to their incredible tones, these popular acoustic guitar strings are ideal for those who enjoy a bright and sparkling tone with an excellent intonation. wound from 80/20 copper and zinc for a true brass tone and ensure that these strings have an optimum performance and long-lasting life. improve your sound.
Reviews:
I highly recommend these strings for darker sounding acoustics. I installed them on my new Epiphone DR-100, and they sound amazing. Much better than the factory strings, in my opinion. I normally like phosphor bronze acoustic strings, but I've found that the DR-100's sound better with the brighter 80/20 bronze strings. Full disclosure, I'm a big fan of Ernie Ball strings in general. I use exclusively the RPS Hybrid 9-46 strings on my electrics. Also highly recommended. Great price on the 3 packs of these. I also really like the 11-52 gauge, vs 12-54. Both sound great, but the slightly lighter gauge works best for me, since I play electric much more often than acoustic. Enjoy!!waterboy411
I've been playing guitar since 1969, and have used countless brands and varieties of acoustic guitar strings. My first go around with Earthwood strings was less than impressive, as I had the ball end fall off of the high E as I was removing it from the package. This put me off Earthwoods for a while, but when I came across an inexpensive project guitar a while back the only acoustic strings available to me at the time were Earthwoods. I bought that set out of necessity and strung the guitar up. I love the gauge of this set since it's only slightly heavier than the sets I've been using on my electrics for years and very comfortable to play, while not sacrificing much in the bottom end of the tone. I was thoroughly impressed with these strings to the point that they're now my go to acoustic strings. Naturally every guitar is going to sound slightly different and every player will have different taste in the way a set feels and sounds to them, but these are my favorite right now. Definitely worth a try if you've never tried them and are looking to replace a set.papastratomaster
I tried these on a recommendation from a friend. I used to use Martin Strings with Medium/12 Gauge. I switched to these because it was a little hard on my hands to get through a full gig. I liked the tone on the Martins a little better but these come in at a close second in my opinion but gives me the options of doing easier bends and double stops. I tried the "one" set before ordering the "three". Recommend doing the same. Great value for the $.hammer_101
19. Ernie Ball Earthwood Light Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Product Details:
Ernie ball earthwood acoustic guitar strings are produced with an exclusive phosphor bronze wrap wire (made from 92% copper, 7.7% tin, 0.3% phosphorus wire). engineered to meet the demands of acoustic musicians worldwide, these concert quality strings provide deep, rich bass notes with clear bright trebles. ernie ball slinky acoustics are played by the counting crows, the edge, and maroon 5 amongst many other touring musicians. made with the finest and freshest raw materials, all ernie ball strings are hermetically sealed to ensure your strings stay as fresh as the day they were made. ernie ball earthwood acoustic guitar strings are produced with an exclusive phosphor bronze wrap wire (made from 92% copper, 7.7% tin, 0.3% phosphorus wire). engineered to meet the demands of acoustic musicians worldwide, these concert quality strings provide deep, rich bass notes with clear bright trebles. ernie ball slinky acoustics are played by the counting crows, the edge, and maroon 5 amongst many other touring musicians. made with the finest and freshest raw materials, all ernie ball strings are hermetically sealed to ensure your strings stay as fresh as the day they were made.
Reviews:
Use them on a Martin 0-18 small body. Perfect gauge for a lighter set of strings without making the high e too thin. Sound great and last about 2-3 weeks with an hour of play everyday. Overall a good set of strings and I would highly recommend them to any user who is looking for a lighter gauge set.Matt
20. Ernie Ball 2150 Earthwood Acoustic Guitar Strings Extra-Light Phosphor Bronze
Product Details:
Ernie ball earthwood phosphor bronze acoustic guitar strings are produced with an exclusive phosphor bronze wrap wire. engineered to meet the demands of acoustic musicians worldwide, these concert quality strings provide deep, rich bass notes with clear bright trebles. ernie ball earthwood phosphor bronze acoustic guitar strings are played by the counting crows, the edge, and maroon 5 amongst many other touring musicians. made with the finest and freshest raw materials, all ernie ball strings are hermetically sealed to ensure your strings stay as fresh as the day they were made. gauges .010 .014 .020w .028 .040 .050. part number 2150.
Reviews:
I discovered these strings by a lucky accident. Now I use them on all my acoustic guitars. I feel that they improve the tone considerably especially on my slim bodied electro acoustic. Although I am not an expert,and unable to comment on longevity and durability, I recommend them.John F.
I have used Extra Slinkys and Cobalt Slinkys on my solid bodies for years and have been mighty impressed with them so I thought I would try the Acoustic version. They lived up to my expectations, bright and clear sounding, easy on the fingers and comfortable to play. They seem to eliminate the extra finger force needed when playing an acoustic compared to a solid body. The strings are very light but do not sound tinny or weak giving a full bodied tone. For $10 a set they are incredible value for money.
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