Lights to extra lights on Breedlove Concert

[JAGUSAFR]

I've played a Zager with extra-light strings for the last 10 years. I bought a Breedlove Concert (handmade in Bend) about a year ago and it's strung with lights. It's designed as a picker's guitar. I've noticed that my chording hand gets fatigued a lot faster playing barred chords, which makes the playing sloppy.

I want to switch to extra-lights - do I need to have the guitar set up for the lighter strings? What's the down side of a switch like this?

[bufflehead]

Switch the strings before deciding whether you need another setup. Are you getting buzz? If not, play on.

I've used extra lights on my Breedlove concert, by the way. I prefer custom lights, personally, which are in between lights and extra lights.

[Lillis]

It might need a slight truss rod adjustment but may not even need that. I would highly recommend looking at Santa Cruz low tension or straight up strings brand mediums. Both have gauges you’re used to with lower tension.
I had a USA Breedlove concert (great guitar). I think you’ll lose a lot of tone if you go too light. IMO

[JAGUSAFR]

Thanks for the feedback - just ordered the Elixir Custom Lights, will report back.

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Zager dreadnought
Epiphone Dot Studio
Breedlove Concert
Ibanez classical A/E