ga5 medium strings?

sixrun67 · #1 07-23-2008, 09:55 AM

ok to use medium gauge?

Chicago Sandy · #2 07-23-2008, 07:46 PM

OK structurally but will not improve anything sonically. (Only exception is if you downtune at least a full step and/or have a short scale--then the mediums will keep the strings from feeling sloppy and sounding sour). GA tops are braced and voiced for lights. More tension (from mediums) would, paradoxically, inhibit top vibration and keep the volume down--which is not what you want. The tops aren't so delicate that mediums would harm them but the sound would be sub-optimal.

MattJohnPaul · #3 07-23-2008, 09:36 PM

I wouldn't....

sixrun67 · #4 07-24-2008, 10:14 AM

thanks for your thoughts,sounds right.

Bill.

Bob1131 · #5 07-24-2008, 11:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sixrun67

ok to use medium gauge?

I have my GA4 strung with med PB EXPs and I absolutely love the sound! It required a slight truss rod adjustment, a slight lowering of the saddle and I keep it tuned down only 1/2 step, although 1 full step sounds okay, too. Maybe I and everyone around me that has heard the difference are crazy, but the mediums have given the guitar more bass and richer mid-tones. The highs have the same sparkle as with lights. The guitar also seems a little louder. Also, I note a little better sound from the ES. It may be due to thicker cores in the wound strings or more vibration in the body for the sensors to pick up (can't say for certain). For me, I'm staying with the mediums!