Are All Guitar Strings The Same?

We believe the more info players have about their guitar strings, the better. And with all the marketing mumbo-jumbo we all wade through—it would be nice to get some actual information every now and again, wouldn't it? So, we put on our professor hats and made an in-depth video covering all aspects of string construction—and talking about what makes one brand or style of strings different from another. If you've ever wanted a deep dive into the string world, this is your chance. Want to dig in further, or try some Stringjoys for yourself? Killer. Just head on over to Stringjoy.com   [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wtKTWpHNac[/embed]   Here are the cliff notes of the video so you can follow along.  

What is a guitar string?

• Ball end
• Core wire
• Wrap wire (on wound strings only)

Core Wire

• Made from tempered, high-carbon steel
• Originated in 1840 for piano strings
• Great at taking abuse from guitar picks, etc
• Holds tune very well
• Also used in springs and orthodontics

Core Shape

• Round Core
  • "Boomier"
  • Less consistent over time
• Hex Core
  • Brighter
  • More durable

Wrap Wire

• Stainless Steel - extremely bright
• Pure nickel - extremely bright
• Most companies use different compositions of nickel plated steel

Wrap shape

• Round wound
  • Bright
  • Most finger noise
• Ground wound or half wound
  • Fairly dark
  • Less finger noise
• Flat wound
  • Very dark
  • No finger noise

Hows it wrapped?

• A machine tightens and spins the core wire
• Wrap wire is threaded and fed as it wind the length of the string
• Human involvement varies from company to company

Coatings

• Made of Teflon
• Creates a barrier
• Keeps off dirt
• Decreases output and sustain

What should you care about

• Getting your sound
• Quality and durability
• Customer service/support