What brand of strings?

Preacher · Nov 30, 2013

Without going into too much depth in your answer (I don't want to eat up too much more of your time) what strings are good for a beginner? All I have available locally is D'Addario and some other brand I can't remember. I see most people here excited about Aquila. But a couple have commented on the thickness being harder on the fingers. And then there's the whole sound issue. I have a soprano Kamaka with really old strings on it.

So, any recommendations? Or does it really not matter, and I should just shut up and practice!?!

mm stan · Nov 30, 2013

Aloha Preacher,

Let me take another angle here...make sure you get a set up and a low action comfortable for you, tip 2) I suggest to beginning ukers to use light guage thin fleurocarbon strings....
the give you a better playability and comfort until you build your finger strength and dexterity.....worth lights and Oasis are double sets, PHD, living waters are good suggestings
they may have a brighter tone, but comfort is foremost for a beginner I believe...good luck and happy strummings..

haolejohn · Nov 30, 2013

I suggest fluorocarbon strings as well. As far as what brands that is a personal preference. I love PhDs. I love worth. Just remember that worth strings are two sets in one.

bnolsen · Dec 1, 2013

if impatient you should be able to get a pack of martin m600s for 5usd or less. they are on the light side. i just put some oasis high g lights on a soprano ukulele and i like them a bit better than the m600s. just a little heavier.

i'm not a big fan of aquilas. the new d'addario nyltechs are better strings although just slightly.

PereBourik · Dec 1, 2013

+1 for Martin M600 from another preacher. They do well on a lot of different instruments. They're also easier to find in a pinch than many fancier brands. I can walk into my small town music store and find them. Often they're the only strings they have for 'ukulele.

I do not like Aquila strings. They make lessen 'ukes sound better, but not so a better one. With Aquila you hear the string, not the instrument.

janeray1940 · Dec 1, 2013

PereBourik said:
+1 for Martin M600

Make that +2

I go back and forth between M600s, and D'Addario Nyltechs, as my favorite strings on my Kamaka pineapple soprano - so I'd recommend trying both (Amazon carries both so they are easy to come by).

I actually liked the old formula of Aquilas on that uke as well, but I don't care for the new formula.

And yes, it matters. Old strings will not do your playing any favors - so taking the time to change the strings is well worth it!

Brad Bordessa · Dec 1, 2013

PhilUSAFRet · Dec 1, 2013

Just received some Oasis Lights for my new/old Kamaka white label soprano. I want the bright barky Kamaka sound. Some like a mellower sound on those Kamaka's.

bazmaz · Dec 3, 2013

It really does matter - but doesn't need a long winded explanation.

In short - your ears, your style, your taste and your uke are different from EVERYBODY else's - only you can decide what sounds best to you. If I told you my favourite string, you may try them and hate them. Doesn't make you wrong.

Every new uke I acquire, I test five or six types of string on them over a period and settle on what I like best. There are common favourites, but some ukes suit others.

Experiment

Five Ways · Dec 3, 2013

I agree with bazmaz could not have put it better really, spot on.
good luck.

Captain America · Dec 3, 2013

This is really the way to go. I'm still in the experimenting phase.

I know how this drill runs: it took me a couple of years and about 6-8 different sets to find the right strings for my Guild guitar.

wickedwahine11 · Dec 3, 2013

It really does take experimentation. I've tried countless string options (Aquila, Worth, D'addario, Living Water, PhD, Savarez, Hilo, Fremont, Guadalupe, etc.) and for me, I like Living Water and PhD the best -- but one sounds better on one uke, and one sounds better on another. Sorry, I wish there was a magic answer but it is trial and error for your particular preferences.

What brand of strings?

Preacher

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mm stan

Mystery Man

haolejohn

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bnolsen

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PereBourik

Ukulele don't judge

janeray1940

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Brad Bordessa

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PhilUSAFRet

UU VIP

bazmaz

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Five Ways

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Captain America

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wickedwahine11

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