Knowing myself and a few other guitar players, for some people it’s like having a ritual take place when it comes to changing strings. Especially when the guitar is brand spanking new and you have to change your first pair of strings. Out comes the cloth and the tools, as well as the ointments to shine and clean your guitar. Now, something to consider is that it can be different depending on what guitar you have. For example, changing acoustic guitar strings is very easy and has more leeway regarding some aspects such as the neck and intonation.
So if you’ve got an electric guitar such as a Fender, Gibson, PRS, or Ibanez, listen up!
When it’s time for a change in strings usually you’ll know by the look and sound of your strings, they would have become dull and very ‘tin’ sounding. This applies to acoustic as well as electric strings. The mistake many guitar players make is taking all the strings off at once, causing the neck and action to go out, the best way to prevent any such situations is to change string by string. This way you’ll lower the chance of fret buzz as well as having your guitar action going all the way out, and so your guitar’s neck stays in intact. Another thing to remember is to stretch your strings after they have been put on so that they will maintain their tuning when you play. These may seem like common sense to some but they are mistakes even some pro players make.
4 tips to change your own strings with ease:
- A new set of strings – an obvious one, but worth mentioning nonetheless. If you’re unsure of which gauge you need to buy, consult your Guitar Excellence instructor. Click here to browse our string selection in our online store
- A string winder – makes winding and unwinding your tuning heads a lot quicker and more convenient.
- A tool to cut strings – like some pliers or wire cutters. Available at your local hardware store or in your dad’s basement.
- Lemon oil – keep your fretboard nice and smooth by cleaning it with some lemon oil – specifically designed for cleaning fretboards. It’s also important to consult your GE instructor on which type of fretboards can and can’t handle lemon oil.
Remember, your guitar will only play and sound as good as you make it. Make an effort and go out and buy these items and give your guitar the love and attention that it needs.E only available to GE Home Subscription members)
Our exclusive online store is only available to GE Home Subscription members with FREE home delivery.
Subscribe to our newsletter here – https://www.guitarexcellence.co.za/ne…
© Guitar Excellence 2017 All Rights Reserved
Comments (0)