How Often Do Professional Guitarists Change Strings?
Professional guitarists typically change their strings based on a variety of factors including their playing style, the type of music they play, and personal preference. Various guidelines and considerations can help them in determining the frequency of string changes.
Frequency of Use
For guitarists who play daily, changing their strings every 1-2 weeks is recommended. Those who play less frequently might opt for changing them every few weeks. This is a general guideline, but individual circumstances and preferences play a crucial role.
Type of Strings
The type of strings also contributes to the lifespan. Coated strings tend to last longer than uncoated ones. This is due to the protective coating that reduces corrosion and wear.
Sweat and Dirt
High-sweat individuals or those who play in humid conditions may experience faster corrosion and degradation of strings. Regular cleaning and preventing excessive moisture can extend the life of the strings.
Performance vs. Practice
strings are often changed more frequently before important performances to ensure optimal sound quality. The bright tone of new strings is often preferred, and guitarists may opt for a fresh set of strings to maintain their sound quality.
Corrosion and Sound Quality
Metal strings corrode over time and even faster during play. Once corrosion sets in, the string’s surface becomes coarse, affecting playability and sound. Cleaning corrosion can provide temporary relief, but prolonged play will still dull the strings' tone.
Some guitar players install a new set of strings after each gig, while others may go a year or more without a new set. There is no set schedule for string changes, as it largely depends on individual needs and circumstances.
String Installation and Breakage
String installation does not usually cause breakage, although a kink formed as the string is wrapped around a tuning machine peg can lead to a break. Using a special wrench and precise measuring techniques ensures a smooth wrapping process without kinking the string.
Factors Influencing Frequency of Changes
How heavily the strings are used and how often they are played, how clean they are kept, general environmental conditions, the gauge and type of strings, and personal preference all influence the frequency of string changes.
Brand new strings tend to provide a different sound than aged strings. Some guitarists prefer the bright tone of new strings and change them frequently, while others may leave the same strings on for much longer and only change them when they feel it is necessary. This often happens when the strings break or no longer stay in tune.
Changing String Process
Changing strings for most guitars is a simple process. It involves unwinding the tuning head until the string is slack enough to remove it from the post, pulling it through from the bridge end, and then fitting a new string, tuning it, and optionally snipping off any excess.
Some locking bridges might require a bit more effort. This involves undoing various clamps, fitting the new string, tuning it with the tuners on the headstock, clamping the nut, and then fine-tuning with the bridge fine tuners.
Brand new strings usually need some playing or stretching before they stay in tune properly. Practicing with the new strings helps the string settle and maintain proper tension.