String gauge and tension

[da axeman]

does the string gauge affect string tension, if it does then how? And how does that then affect tone and sound?

[meev992]

your string gauge affects the forum's search function

[da axeman]

[JanusZarate]

He's pulling your leg, but he has a point - there have been lots of threads on it before, and using the search function will bring them up pretty quickly. I'll give you some brief info, but it's well worth searching to find a wealth of detailed info.

In short... yes. It does both. Higher gauges have naturally higher tension (logically, a thicker string should). And yes, it does change the tone a bit... a bit more depth, a bit less definition.

But the tonal changes are relatively minor, IMO, because what does matter is that tension change. It'll change the physical handling of the string. High-tension strings are stiff strings, which you may or may not like for your playing style. One definite plus in terms of handling, though, is that you can lower the action a bit more with a bit less buzz.

Higher-gauge strings are also nice for detuning (i.e., DADG, DGCF, etc.), since they won't be as loose and flabby as lower-gauge strings.

[meev992]

mystic boo, you've changed your icon once again, have you ever used a 3D boo ?

[JanusZarate]

I actually went back to an old icon.

I do have a 3D Boo icon ready for use - I just haven't felt like using it yet.

[meev992]

allright!

oh yea, you're in Berkely? I'm a short bart ride away, let me know when you're playing out!

[JanusZarate]

Jamming or gigging?

I haven't even done a gig yet. Our band keeps falling apart.

I think I need to find new bandmates. First thing we need is a drummer... again.

[meev992]

aww, that's a real bummer.

I'm a hack on guitar, so I wouldn't be able to jam...and gigs..well, sucks to hear that, drummer's are in short supply...I think it might be the area. I hear, from my old friends, that there's 6 drummers on the same block. haha