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Higher tension nickel roundwounds?

ElectraPhoenix

ElectraPhoenix

Jan 10, 2010
407
4
Houston, TX
#1
Hey guys. So, I really dig the tone of nickel roundwounds (I don't care for steels). Right now I have a set of the standard D'Addario Xls; a .105 set. I'm planning on going back to .100s soon, and I have concern. The .105 XLs are too low tension. I have a really good setup for them, pretty much perfect height and intonation and everything, but they flop around too much. I would like something stiffer (I'm always in the mood to try new strings anyways). Do you think the .100 set of the XLs will be any stiffer? Or should I try a different brand? Again, only nickel roundwounds please. Steels and half-rounds aren't my thing.
 
#2
Going from a .105 to a .100 is the opposite of going stiffer. A higher gauge string is going to give you more tension and less flop. As far as which nickle string has higher tension I'm not sure. I'm a stainless steel kinda guy. If you want to stick with the same gauge you are currently using but want a higher tension then I'd suggest trying a different brand. There are many to choose from and everyone has their preferance. Hope you find yours.
 
#6
Thanks for the suggestion on the Lo-Riders. I don't really like playing the thicker gauge, so I'm going back to the .100s. I realize I'm probably being pretty picky here, but I'll definitely try the Lo-Riders when I get the chance. How are the Sunbeams? I've heard good things about those strings.
 
#8
ElectraPhoenix said:
Thanks for the suggestion on the Lo-Riders. I don't really like playing the thicker gauge, so I'm going back to the .100s. I realize I'm probably being pretty picky here, but I'll definitely try the Lo-Riders when I get the chance. How are the Sunbeams? I've heard good things about those strings.
Click to expand...

Sunbeams have a round core which will give you a mellower tone then a hex core, will make bends easier, and have lower tension then Low-Riders. What exactly is it that you don't like about the thicker gauge?
 
#13
I've played the Fender Nickels (105-45) and just put on some DR LowRiders (45-105).

The Fenders have noticeably higher tension than the LowRiders. Maybe you would like them if you can stay at 105? They are not expensive.

ElectraPhoenix said:
Hey guys. So, I really dig the tone of nickel roundwounds (I don't care for steels). Right now I have a set of the standard D'Addario Xls; a .105 set. I'm planning on going back to .100s soon, and I have concern. The .105 XLs are too low tension. I have a really good setup for them, pretty much perfect height and intonation and everything, but they flop around too much. I would like something stiffer (I'm always in the mood to try new strings anyways). Do you think the .100 set of the XLs will be any stiffer? Or should I try a different brand? Again, only nickel roundwounds please. Steels and half-rounds aren't my thing.
Click to expand...
 

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