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Topic: String Gauge Substitution |
Flip Brown
From:
Vermont, USA
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Posted 26 Nov 2017 6:19 am |
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My first post. I'm delighted to be rejoining the pedal steel players' community. I had a Harlan Bros. "MultiKord" in 1974, but the problem was too much of a buzz (me, not the instrument). I just acquired a never-been-played Sierra Artist (she's a beauty) with the original factory strings but no manual. I see that the copedent on the SierraSteels website is for the following gauges - 13, 15, 11, 14, 18, 22p, 26w, 30, 36, 38. I've searched the web for an E9 set that matches those specs, but it looks like I'll either need to regularly order custom sets or make some compromises on one or two string gauges. My hunch is that going one or two numbers heavier will just result in a fatter tone, and going one lighter will be a brighter tone but possibly increase the possibility of breakage.
I'd love to hear from the seasoned PS veterans out there in terms of (a.) mixing and matching gauges and (b.) and specific brand or set recommendations for this Artist. Having read many posts on various topics so far I do understand that there's no shortage of opinions in this community! Thanks for your consideration. Flip |
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Jon Light
From:
Saugerties, NY
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Posted 26 Nov 2017 6:28 am
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Subbing .017 for .018, .034 for .036, .036 for .038....
these are all very much within acceptable parameters. Do plan on tweaking the pedal and lever tuning a bit.
The one string substitution to be very aware of is subbing a plain for a wound 6th string. This creates a major change in the tuning of the guitar and often requires rerodding so only make this change if it is by deliberate intention. |
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Erv Niehaus
From:
Litchfield, MN, USA
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Posted 26 Nov 2017 7:19 am
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I prefer a 12 for the 3rd. 
Erv |
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Jack Stoner
From:
Kansas City, MO
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Posted 26 Nov 2017 7:43 am
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The George L's "Tension Balanced" strings are close.
12, 16, 11, 13, 18, 22, 26W, 28W, 34W, 38W |
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Jim Palenscar
From:
Oceanside, Calif, USA
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Posted 26 Nov 2017 8:04 am
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| SIT Emmons sets are real close to that w the exception of the 28 for the 8th string (most use a 30). |
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Ron Pruter
From:
Arizona, USA
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Posted 27 Nov 2017 6:34 pm
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Flip, just go with what Jim said. Easy to find and very much a standard. If you have any probs, just post the prob and we're here to help.RP
_________________
Emmons SKH Le Grande, '73 Fender P/J bass, Tick tack bass, Regal high strung, USA Nashville 112. |
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Tommy Mc
From:
Middlesex VT
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Posted 1 Dec 2017 12:47 pm
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Flip, my suggestion is to use the "recommended" gauges as a rough guideline. Choose a set that's readily available and fairly close. If a couple of strings are off by a few hundredth's, you can tune the affected levers/pedals.
Your profile says you're located in VT.... If you're anywhere near Middlesex, I'd be glad to help you. |
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