Best extended life / coated string

LiveMusic · #1 01-14-2019, 05:36 PM

I haven't used anything like Elixir in years. Since I have a lot of acoustic guitars, getting longevity is a bonus. Can anyone recommend a string that lasts quite long? I'm not up on the latest technology. Are all extended life strings just coated technology? FWIW, my hands don't sweat, that's not a problem.

Perhaps, if nothing else, I could put extended life strings on guitars I don't play as often as ones I play more regularly. I do it but I'm not exactly fond of changing strings.

Lastly, if you think coated or extended life strings sound terrible, chime in, lol. Because I do like the guitars to sound good!

jdinco · #2 01-14-2019, 05:48 PM

I've been really impressed with the new Martin Authentic Lifespan 2.0's PB, the Elixirs are OK too, a lot will depend on how they sound on your guitar. But definitely try the Martins at some point.

Gordon Currie · #3 01-14-2019, 06:26 PM

So far I haven't found anything that is better than Elixirs for my own use.

Be aware that Elixir offers two formulations for acoustic strings - Polyweb and Nanoweb. I much prefer Nanoweb, as it seems to have a thinner coating and the brightness I seek.

I tried a few others, including Cleartone. I couldn't get them off my guitar fast enough. YMMV.

RussL30 · #4 01-14-2019, 06:29 PM

Martin Retro monels last a really long time, but they are a string that are very guitar dependent on how they sound.

Brucebubs · #5 01-14-2019, 06:33 PM

I find the coating on Elixir way too slippery for my finger tips.
Don't have a problem with other brands.

I get very good string life from Martin Retro Monels, D'Addario Nickel Bronze and an easy 10 months from Martin Titanium - all of which are uncoated.

ericj · #6 01-14-2019, 06:45 PM

+1 on Elixirs for my 12 strings.

bls82261 · #7 01-14-2019, 07:10 PM

Martin retros if they match your guitar, if they don't, D'Addario EXP PB in your favorite gauge

NoodleFingers · #8 01-14-2019, 07:13 PM

Ernie Ball Paradigm strings. They last at least as long as Elixirs (for me, anyway), but don't feel or sound like a coated string. I think they sound great.

offeringplate · #9 01-14-2019, 07:24 PM

CLEARTONE guitar strings are my current strings I am using.

I had been using Elixirs for a while and a buddy was commenting on how much he liked his cleartones.

Im currently stringing up with Cleartone acoustic Phosphor Bronze med 13-56

i really like the way i can dig into them and not be bothered by the coating, I guess thats why they say "NO FEEL COATING"

-OP

offeringplate · #10 01-14-2019, 07:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brucebubs

I find the coating on Elixir way too slippery for my finger tips.
Don't have a problem with other brands.

I get very good string life from Martin Retro Monels, D'Addario Nickel Bronze and an easy 10 months from Martin Titanium - all of which are uncoated.

Bruce, have you tried Cleartones? It was a pleasant surprise.

-OP

BrunoBlack · #11 01-14-2019, 07:30 PM

I have great luck with D'Addario EXP PB as my preference. I find they have a great feel, last very long and have a great sound. I have not been a fan of Elixir strings, but recently I have found that Elixir Nanowebs work very well on a couple of my guitars. They sound good & last a long time. They are a bit slippery when brand new, but I’ve learned to adjust. I’ve had some luck with SCGC Parabolic strings, and think, while they are not my favorite, they are nice and are worth a try. I do find SCGC strings to be a bit noisy/squeaky.

DukeX · #12 01-14-2019, 07:31 PM

I've tried many of the others and have always gone back to Elixir Nano PBs.

Brucebubs · #13 01-14-2019, 07:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by offeringplate

Bruce, have you tried Cleartones? It was a pleasant surprise.

-OP

Thanks, I'll put them on my 'strings to try' list.

Davis Webb · #14 01-14-2019, 07:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DukeX

I've tried many of the others and have always gone back to Elixir Nano PBs.

Yep. Yep., Yep.

JMW01 · #15 01-14-2019, 08:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jdinco

I've been really impressed with the new Martin Authentic Lifespan 2.0's PB, the Elixirs are OK too, a lot will depend on how they sound on your guitar. But definitely try the Martins at some point.

I agree. I had been using Elixers on all my guitars before I tried the new Martin Authentic strings. My vintage Gibson J-50 still sounds the best with Elixer nano, but my D-18 and J-45 absolutely sing with the Martin Authentic Lifespan 2.0's PB lights. I love these strings!