[Steve DeRosa]

While I wouldn't go with a 15-73 set, there's no question you need a heavier string set to get the most out of any vintage archtop - and unless you're playing Gypsy jazz exclusively and want "that" tone from an American-style jazzbox, a set of 12's isn't going to cut it. As long as the guitar is in structurally good shape - correct neck geometry (extremely important in an archtop), sufficient adjustment range (both up and down) in the bridge, bridge base contoured flush with top at all points, properly mounted/centered tailpiece, no sag in top - I'd go with a D'Addario EJ18 14-59 PB set; you need a heavier string to drive the top sufficiently to get adequate tone/volume, and with the 24-3/4" scale they'll have about the same feel as mediums on a 25-1/2" instrument - as long as you get a good pro setup, by a tech who really knows what he/she is doing (IME many fine flattop/acoustic techs don't know squat about what makes archtops tick). If after some play time you find them too much to handle, try a set of Martin Retro Monel MM13's; they're a period-accurate string with a bit more tension than a standard 13-56 set (interestingly enough, they have a looser, slinkier feel), so they'll not only drive the top but give you a true '40s tonal vibe...