I forgot what strings I have

RedJoker · #1 07-21-2014, 01:55 PM

At the beginning of the year, I set out to find out what strings my guitar and I like best. I went through a bunch of sets but found that the set I have on now has lasted FAR longer and still sound great, the clear winner. The problem is that I forgot which ones are on the guitar. I think I have it narrowed down to two but I don't know which one it is.

Considering I work in an R&D lab, I would be pretty ticked if one of my technicians did this. Do as I say, not as I do.

amyFB · #2 07-21-2014, 02:06 PM

I play thru a set of strings every two months or less, and never forget that I love the Elixer Nanoweb Lights. (NOT the Polyweb!, totally different animal)

What's the worst that happens, you're out $20 because you remembered wrong?

I'd think almost any new string would be better than any old worn out string.

good luck! and let us know what you finally remember that you like!

BobbyBadd · #3 07-21-2014, 02:30 PM

Someone gave this tip awhile back;
as you change your strings, keep the box they came in, write the date on it. That way you will know, after you forget.

Teleman52 · #4 07-21-2014, 03:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by amyFB

I'd think almost any new string would be better than any old worn out string

not always true! i keep old worn out 80/20 strings on my lg2. I love the blues tone i get from that combo

RedJoker · #5 07-21-2014, 03:18 PM

I didn't particularly care for the Elixirs but really liked the Martin PBs and thought the d'addario PBs were a close second. I then decided to test the coated versions of those strings but can't remember which one I currently have on!

It's not really a big deal because I wanted to try some 80/20s next to see if my opinion has changed on them. I'm a beginner and not gigging or anything so it doesn't really matter if I don't get the perfect tone.

Teleman52 · #6 07-21-2014, 03:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RedJoker

I didn't particularly care for the Elixirs but really liked the Martin PBs and thought the d'addario PBs were a close second. I then decided to test the coated versions of those strings but can't remember which one I currently have on!

It's not really a big deal because I wanted to try some 80/20s next to see if my opinion has changed on them. I'm a beginner and not gigging or anything so it doesn't really matter if I don't get the perfect tone.

if you want to try some good 80/20s. Try LaBella Golden Alloy, they are my favorite and i have them on both of my guitars. They seem to last longer than other 80/20 strings

mikeiscool42 · #7 07-21-2014, 03:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BobbyBadd

Someone gave this tip awhile back;
as you change your strings, keep the box they came in, write the date on it. That way you will know, after you forget.

I remember that tip and have since started doing the same thing!!

PTC Bernie · #8 07-21-2014, 03:29 PM

I also write the date on the box or package and keep it in the accessory compartment. If I didnt I wouldn't be able to remember what was on each guitar.

RedJoker · #9 07-21-2014, 03:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PTC Bernie

I also write the date on the box or package and keep it in the accessory compartment. If I didnt I wouldn't be able to remember what was on each guitar.

I have only one guitar and thought for sure I would remember. Ha!

dhalbert · #10 07-21-2014, 04:10 PM

Can you tell, or at least narrow it down, by the ball ends? D'addario are color-coded, etc.

CoolerKing · #11 07-21-2014, 04:27 PM

Bummer. Guess you'll have to start over

scottishrogue · #12 07-21-2014, 05:05 PM

If you have a single guitar, just look at the original packages...the one that's empty is what is on your guitar.

When you have a fair number of guitars like I do, it doesn't pay to try and remember which set you used, so I'll jot the model of guitar on the original packaging. Some will record that stuff in a notebook. Sometimes it's fun to install a set that looks nothing like the ones you're replaying, as it could mean a new discovery when they ring like a bell!

Glen

Silly Moustache · #13 07-21-2014, 05:18 PM

????

I keep a log of all string changes, set-ups, and actions.

I use four dreads - for different tasks/bands/gigs, a 12 string, dobro, mando etc., so I need to keep records.

I also have instruments that don't gig much

I don't damage strings by acid sweat and I don't play so badly that I break strings, but strings degrade slowly (for me) and I don't like to do gigs with tired strings.

My log can tell me at a glance if I've had a set on for more than two months and change them in good time.

Also - each guitar has a Princess Mary box containing picks, capo, and tuner but I also keep the string history handwritten inside the lid.- Even this might resolve the OP's problem.

Dru Edwards · #14 07-21-2014, 05:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BobbyBadd

Someone gave this tip awhile back;
as you change your strings, keep the box they came in, write the date on it. That way you will know, after you forget.

That's what I do. I write the date, and the guitar on the package.

RedJoker · #15 07-27-2014, 03:50 PM

Yay! I figured it out. I had coated Martin PB 12 on the guitar. I just changed them to the 80/20 that I wanted to try. So far, they're not my favorite....