Comments

• MichaelHorowitz SeattleAdministrator

  May 2005 Posts: 6,153

  Hi Anton,
  
  The choice between loop and ball end is merely a matter of preference. It doesn't change the sound or performance of the string. I prefer loop ends because they're easier to get on and off, especially after breaking a string.
  
  The real issue is string gauge. Until the 80s or so there was only the light 10 gauge set. So most people used that regardless of the size of the guitar. Now, most players use the 10 gauge set (1510 or 1610) for larger scale length guitars (i.e. the oval hole models). The 11 gauge set (1510MF or 1610MF) is used for the shorter scale models (i.e. D-hole models).
  
  Some players like Stochelo Rosenberg and Jimmy Rosenberg use a 10 gauge set and then beef up the high end by putting a 11 on the E and a 15 on the B. I do this and find that it really improves the tone on the treble strings....makes them sound really FAT!
  
  In the Netherlands most of the Gypsies use the Galli VO27 strings. Stochelo Rosenberg, Fapy Lafertin, and many other use them. They're nice strings and cheaper then the Argentines.
  
  Good luck!
  
  'm
• zav Geneve, SwissNew

  May 2005 Posts: 94

  Hi, Michael!
  
  Well, addition 4$ (ie less than a dollar per each complect) doesn't matter for me, so I'll choose Argentines nevertheless.
  
  But, another thing - is the use of 11's on large-scale guitars so rare now? For the moment (reading this and UK forums) I have an opinion that it's more like player's choice, and there is no such simple (almost 100%) statistic, as you've written - just depending on guitar's scale... So, my idea was to start with 11's (as Gitanes have rather small action, and as I like to use high-gauge strings) and (may be) go for 10's only after changing the bridge for higher action...
  
  Cheers,
  Anton
• zav Geneve, SwissNew

  May 2005 Posts: 94

  ... And when do you expect single G and D Argentines?
  
  Anton
• MichaelHorowitz SeattleAdministrator

  May 2005 Posts: 6,153

  Hi Anton,
  
  What I said before reflects the traditional set up that most Gypsies use. For a long scale oval hole guitar usually the action is between 3mm and 4mm at the 12 fret. The higher action necessitates the use of the lighter 10 gauge strings. Every Gypsy I studied with set their guitar up this way.
  
  However, it has become fashionable among many non-Gypsy players to use lower action in combination with the heavier 11 gauge strings. It's a different sound but it works for some people.
  
  
  'm
• djangology Portland, OregonModerator

  May 2005 Posts: 1,018

  definitely the loops ends will save me at least 20 seconds in string change time, which on stage, can make a difference...
• zav Geneve, SwissNew

  May 2005 Posts: 94

  Michael Horowitz wrote:
  

  For a long scale oval hole guitar usually the action is between 3mm and 4mm at the 12 fret.

  
  Sorry, I don't understand
  
  1. 3-4mm with what gauge of the strings?
  2. if I could be able to have action of 3-4mm with standard Gitane's bridge?
• zav Geneve, SwissNew

  May 2005 Posts: 94

  I've just read again that perfect Argentine lights vs. extra lights topic http://www.djangobooks.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=189, so only one questions remains
  
  - if I could be able to have action of 3-4mm with STANDARD Gitane DG-255 bridge??
• MichaelHorowitz SeattleAdministrator

  May 2005 Posts: 6,153

  I don't own a Gitane, but from what I hear they ship with bridges that are way too low. You'll have to shim it up...ideally you'll get a nice wood like rosewood and use that for a shim. But in a pinch, popsicle sticks or credit cards work. There are many photos of Django where he's got a match book under the bridge!
  
  'm
• zav Geneve, SwissNew

  May 2005 Posts: 94

  Hi, Michael!
  

  I hear they ship with bridges that are way too low

  
  Yes - I've read here a lot of times about it, but with no exact numbers, that's why I've asked. OK, the idea about shim is nice, and later I'm going to change the standard bridge with Dupont No 2 or 3 (or something like this). So - high action and 10's - that's our way!
  
  Thanks a lot!
  Anton