Strings for c.1900 parlor

[AcornHouse]

I just got a circa 1900 C. Bruno parlor guitar (Brazilian back/sides, spruce top) that desperately needs new strings. Pin bridge, low action. Should I use Aquilas normal tension super-nylgut, or their Romantic era nylguts?

Thoughts? Experiences?

[Taylorplayer]

Originally Posted by AcornHouse

I just got a circa 1900 C. Bruno parlor guitar (Brazilian back/sides, spruce top) that desperately needs new strings. Pin bridge, low action. Should I use Aquilas normal tension super-nylgut, or their Romantic era nylguts?

Thoughts? Experiences?

My advice? Ask this guy: Steve, at www.vintageparlorguitars.com [email protected] Steve is very knowledgeable and a great guy to work with. I have to warn you, though. It sounds like you've got a great guitar - and would love to see some pics - but Steve always has a great selection on hand... and at pretty great prices too!

[AcornHouse]

Sent him an email, thanks.
Also got to wondering if it should nylon (which is what is on it now) or maybe silk/steel strings. It is ladder braced, so definitely not regular steel strings.
I'll get pics posted in a day or so. It seems to be a basic model, with no binding top or bottom.

[M Hayden]

Thomastik John Pearse Folk strings sound great on those older guitars and don't overstress the top or neck.

[Looburst]

M Hayden is right, you might also try D'Addario Silk and Steels, I have used both on my L-Century with great success. Although the Silk and Steels do die pretty fast.

[AcornHouse]

Steve (vintage parlors) recommended Newtone Heritages over silk/steels. I'll give them a try.

[TKT]

I have 4 players circa 1920s, one old Washburn, a Supertone, and a no name Brazilian b/s. I have Oasis carbon classicals on all of them because of the short scale and my old hands, and they seem to do well. They Washburn came with silk and steels and I didn't really care for them on that guitar.

It would be great if you would post back on how you like the Newtones.

[LadysSolo]

Chris, if that is the parlor that was advertised on Craig's list, I was considering it too. I'd be interested in how you like it after you get the new strings on it. (I'm also in Ohio.)