Jimi Hendrix's string gauges

Andy Volk · From: Boston, MA

https://www.stringjoy.com/jimi-hendrixs-guitar-string-gauges/
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Travis Brown · From: Florida, USA

I thought that was pretty interesting, especially that Jimi played such light strings while tuned down to Eb.

Fred Treece · From: California, USA

I agree, very interesting. So much for my impression of SRV and his super-human finger strength. Back in the mid-90’s, I tried a set of 13’s on my guitar. I literally could not play. Even drop tuning to Eb. That custom set of his is not for the meek and timid, but probably much more playable than stock 13’s.

The system of squaring the gauge to determine output balance between strings was news to me, but makes sense I suppose. On E9 pedal steels, the standard .011 high G# is notoriously weak. That’s probably why so many players go to .0115 and .012 for that string, in spite of the increased breakage hazard.

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