Question about switching strings..

[brian45211]

Hey, I'm currently using regular 10's on my Les Paul. I've recently got into alot of lead playing and have thought about switching over to EB Hybrids because it seems that it's harder to bend with the 10s. On the other hand, I like the bigger low strings for rhythm playing, so hybrids seem like a good choice.

With the 10's, like I said, it's harder to bend and seems like my fingers can't "grip" the strings. Will the Hybrids fix this? Are they easier to play lead and bend?

Also, my LP is setup perfectly for 10's right now. Will I have to make any adjustments if I switch to hybrids?

I'd appreicate any imput.

Thanks!

 

[Derek]

The Hybrids were developed with guys like you in mind. The 9 's 11's and 16's will facilitate easier string bending for your lead work. Your technique will determine how well you can grip the string, however with slightly less tension it may be easier for you to grab a hold of and manipulate.

There will be a slight tension shift so you may want to reintonate the bridge and adjust the trust rod a bit.

Thanks

Derek

 

[Adwex]

Before you switch to 9's I have a suggestion. Ever hear of "top-wrapping"? It's an alternative way of stringing a Les Paul that I have adopted since I heard about it, and it has several advantages. Instead of putting the string through the tailpiece from behind, try putting it in through the front (pickup side) and wrapping the strings over the tailpiece. The advantages are:

-You can lower the tailpiece all the way down to the body, which most people agree enhances the tone due to the closer/tighter connection to transmit vibration to the body (the fundamental foundation of the guitar that really determines it's inherent tone) . At the same time, the strings will not touch the back of the bridge (perceived as a tone sucker) because they will be just as high or higher than before even though the TP is lower.

-Since there is more length of "un-anchored" string behind the bridge, the strings feel easier to bend. You can keep the richer tone with the 10's, and still have the slinkier (pun?) feel of 9's...almost...and no change in tension, so no truss rod adjustment necessary.

-There will be less of a "break angle" as the strings pass over the bridge. Most people agree (myself included) that this enhances tone and allows the string to vibrate more freely, increasing sustain and harmonic content.

After I did it, I noticed 2 things immediately...slinkier feel for bending, and an "airy", "woody-er", more "open" tone. Try it, you'll see, if you don't like it, all it'll cost you is a pack of strings. It worked for Duane and still works for Zakk and Billy Gibbons.

Adam

 

[Adwex]

But there has to be a disadvantage, right? You may notice that you have to bend the strings a little more to get to the same pitch due to the slightly increased unanchored length.

You may also not like the idea of the sharp bend in the strings as they come out the bottom of the tailpiece. You'd think they would break easily, but this has never happened to me. Those Slinkys are tougher than you think.