Heavier Guitar Strings

[ryandfl]

I just tried the Ernie Ball "Skinny Top/Heavy Bottom" set for the first time and really like them. They are -
10-13-17-30-42-52

I recently switched from an SG tuned down to C standard using 12-54 or 56 over to a LP tuned to D standard. I was using 11-54 at first on the LP, but high strings were sounding too chunky (can't believe I just said that), particularly the G string (standard tuning G, that is). Skinny Top/Heavy Bottoms are chilling out the top 3 while keeping the low strings fairly fat. I wish the low E/D was 54 though.

 

[Thumpalumpacus]

I played .011 - .052s in standard on my Les Paul. I used .011 - .050 for the last four years on the SGs, because finding a .052 bottom is a pain in the ass.

 

[ryandfl]

Correct me if I'm wrong but heavier strings are prone to breakage more often, especially if you pick near the bridge and bend at the same time.

I haven't broken a string in years. I broke strings regularly when I was young and using an Ibanez RG something with 9s or 10s, but that stopped when I moved to Gibsons and heavier strings.

 

[JustFree]

+1 For Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottoms!

 

[DHenry]

I used various sets of Ernie Balls for about 15 years, but have recently switched to Dunlop. Was using a custom .011-.058 set, and have used the Beefy Slinky, Not Even Slinky, and Skinny Top/Heavy Bottom sets running to either Drop C#, Drop C, or Drop B. I have found That it's easier/cheaper to order online, so now I'm using a custom Dunlop set: .012, .016, .022w .030w, .040w, .060w. Really dig 'em.

 

[chee16]

I tried the Beefy Slinky (11-54) and the bottom end was too big for standard tuning, for me at least. I am using the power slinky (11-48) right now and like them. I was using GHS Boomers (11-50) for a long time and they were nice too. Larger then 50 or 52 only makes sense to me if you are down tuning, but that is just me.

 

[sunking420]

I have NEVER top-wrapped a set with the stopbar tailpiece, but it's supposed to make bending a lot easier. In case you play with others in standard tuning and not kill your fingers, wrist and elbow. Others that have top wrapped can chime in. Seems like a great solution for heavier strings....

 

[Thumpalumpacus]

Uh-oh, someone's courting punched in the mouth.