Do coated strings really change your tone, or is it mostly in our heads?

[archipelago]

Hey everyone, I’m pretty new here and had a question that’s been bugging me for a while. I’ve always used regular nickel strings, but I keep seeing people recommend coated strings for longer life, especially if you play a lot or have sweaty hands.

For those of you who’ve actually spent time with both, do you notice a real difference in tone and feel, or does it fade once you get used to them? I’m not talking about brand hype—just real-world playing, recording, and gigging experience.

Curious to hear what you all think before I experiment (and possibly overthink it)

 

[beej]

I can only speak for myself (I play and gig regularly). I've tried a few brands of coated and, while they do seem to last a bit longer, they never quite sounded right to me. I like the snappy sound of new strings (plus the other benefits of new strings- less buzzing, better tuning, intonation, etc.) .

The best compromise I've found are the EB Paradigm sets- they last longer and sound right. However they cost quite a bit more, so there's that.

 

[DrKev]

I have used the Ernie Ball Coated Slinkys and found them to be very close in tone and feel to the standard Slinkys, they just lasted a lot linger before losing their tone. I doubt I (or anyone else) could tell the difference blindfold.