String tension question

[jadaxis]

Hi guys,
I've been wondering about the cause for the difference in string tension between my Silo and my Axis, and the forum naturally came to mind!
So, both guitars have 25 1/2" scale length, both are strung with 9-42 strings... anyone know why there would be a noticeable difference in the string tension?
The strings on my Axis *feel* tighter than those on my Silo.
...Not major issue...just curious why it is.

 

[EvilEmuOfDoom]

Is one a fixed bridge and the other a tremolo? Given the same strings, the tremolo guitar would feel like it has less tension since the springs will give a little when you bend.

 

[beej]

The string tension will be the same on both guitars when tuned to the same pitch, since they both have the same scale length.

Usually the case if one feels looser (more playable) is that it's set up differently. The result of lower action, maybe a lower nut height (that one affects feel quite a bit), etc.

 

[jadaxis]

Thanks guys.
I thought of those things as well... Axis has the FR trem and the Silo has the vintage trem.

Beej, I figured they should have the same tension also.... so its typical for lower action to make the string tension *feel* tighter? My Axis has lower action and the strings feel tighter. Kinda seems backwards to me.

 

[EvilEmuOfDoom]

Thanks guys.
I thought of those things as well... Axis has the FR trem and the Silo has the vintage trem.

Beej, I figured they should have the same tension also.... so its typical for lower action to make the string tension *feel* tighter? My Axis has lower action and the strings feel tighter. Kinda seems backwards to me.

Well, actually, that could make sense as well. The Axis would have a locking nut preventing any stretching or give by the strings past the nut while the Silo has a standard nut where you could pull on the strings beyond the nut as well. Also, if the springs are different it could feel different. I'm guessing a little here but it would make sense.

 

[Grifff]

I've always wondered why this is the case too. I've played a telecaster and a semi hollow guitar and the semi hollow had a shorter scale length but the strings felt tighter and easier to play.

 

[patpark]

the silo trem if set to floating will dip down as you bend the string - giving a looser feel. The Axis trem is set per factory specs only goes down in pitch and does not dip down like the silo trem when you bend. Those factors will add to the difference in string tension along with the other variables.

I have found that nut height has a huge impact on tension and if set even slightly higher can make for more tighter tension. Like most guys, I prefer a low nut height for tension and intonation reasons.

 

[TNT]

Pat, what do you mean "dip down"??