Non-gypsy jazz strings

kungfumonk007 · September 28

Has anyone experimented with strings not specifically designated as "gypsy jazz" strings? I am curious about what bronze and silk in particular would sound like. I have a set of ghs on the way. It seems in modern gypsy jazz as the context of the music has changed, including venue, sometimes ensemble, and ability to amplify, that maybe it is time to explore different sounds.

voutoreenie · September 28

No experience with bronze strings but D'Addario silk & steel are OK at aping the sound. As for bronze, I recall reading in other threads they generally don't do well on SelMacs (for multiple reasons)...other forum members could probably expand on that

kungfumonk007 · September 28

I am not trying to mimic the sound of an argentine. Looking for something different that is not completely different but still unique.

Honestly for gj strings the argentines are already not my go to.

pdg · September 28

Maybe try "monel" strings of the same gauges as the GJ strings.

kungfumonk007 · September 28

Yes - that was the other type I was thinking about. Any reason you mention them?

Buco · September 28

Just try to stay in the ballpark with gauges but try whatever you're curious about. Years ago I used bronze strings made by Newtone. They worked fine and the gauge was made for these guitars in mind, 11-46. I think Michael still has some in stock. I've also used silk and steel by Martin, they were also fine. Argentines were never my favorite either, I think a lot depends on how the guitar reacts to strings.

pdg · September 28

Monel strings are less shimmery, more "old school." I kind of liked them on a D-hole that I had, at least for a while. I think they have more "bounce" for rest-stroke playing than GJ strings, actually.

Russell Letson · September 29

GHS silk & bronze are very good strings, but the light set (11-49) is still quite a bit heavier than Argentines, which might make a difference. On the other hand, Michael Dunn told me that before Argentines were readily available in North America, he strung his guitars with bronze. (Don't know what gauge or alloy.) And I've strung my Park with the GHS S&Bs--though I still prefer Argentines on it.

A closer match, gauge-wise, would be a GHS Thin Core set--round core, phosphor bronze. They make both 11-46 and 10-41sets. I use the 11-46 set on my National M-1 tricone and my Deering 6-string banjo--they're plenty loud and last well.

https://www.ghsstrings.com/products/21088-thin-core-phosphor-bronze-6-string?category_id=1969439-thin-core-phosphor-bronze