Introduction

As guitarists, we all want to play like our favorite rockstars. We practice tirelessly, study our favorite songs, and constantly seek ways to improve our playing. But what if there was one simple thing we could do to take our playing to the next level? What if the secret to shredding like a rockstar was as simple as changing our guitar strings?

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at a particular type of guitar strings that are rumored to be the secret to shredding like a rockstar. We’ll examine the benefits of using these strings, how to choose the right ones for you, and what the experts are saying about them. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of whether or not these guitar strings are the key to unlocking your inner rockstar.

What Are These Guitar Strings?

The guitar strings in question are known as “coated” or “treated” strings. These strings have a thin layer of coating or treatment applied to them, which is designed to prolong their lifespan and maintain their tone for a longer period of time than traditional strings. There are several brands that offer coated strings, including Elixir, D’Addario, and Martin.

Coated strings are available in a variety of gauges (thicknesses) and materials, including steel, nickel, and phosphor bronze. Some brands even offer specialty strings, such as those designed specifically for drop tunings or extended-range guitars.

While coated strings tend to be more expensive than traditional strings, many guitarists claim that they are worth the extra cost due to their longer lifespan and consistent tone.

Benefits of Using These Guitar Strings

So, what are the benefits of using coated guitar strings? Here are a few:

Of course, not every guitarist will experience all of these benefits, and some may even prefer the sound and feel of traditional strings. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and playing style.

How to Choose the Right Guitar Strings for You

When it comes to choosing the right guitar strings, there are a few factors to consider:

Gauge

Guitar strings come in a variety of thicknesses, or gauges. Thicker strings tend to produce a fuller, richer sound and are often preferred for rhythm playing or downtuned styles, while thinner strings may be easier to play and offer more flexibility for soloing. Consider your playing style and the type of music you want to play when choosing a gauge.

Material

The material of the string can also affect its tone and feel. Steel strings are often bright and snappy, while nickel and phosphor bronze strings may offer a warmer and more mellow tone. Some guitarists also prefer the feel of coated vs. uncoated strings. Experiment with different materials to find what works best for you.

Brand

Each brand of guitar strings has its own unique sound and feel. While some guitarists swear by a certain brand, others prefer to mix and match different brands and styles to achieve their desired tone. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and find what works best for you.

What the Experts Are Saying

So, are these guitar strings really the secret to shredding like a rockstar? We turned to a few guitar experts to get their take:

Paul Gilbert

Paul Gilbert, guitarist for Mr. Big and Racer X, is a big fan of coated strings. “I love Elixir strings,” he says. “They last forever and sound great. I think the coating really helps with longevity.”

Joe Bonamassa

Blues rock legend Joe Bonamassa has also praised coated strings in interviews. “I use D’Addario coated strings,” he says. “They last longer and sound great. It’s a no-brainer for me.”

Nita Strauss

Nita Strauss, guitarist for Alice Cooper and the Iron Maidens, prefers uncoated strings but acknowledges the benefits of coated strings for certain players. “I think a lot of people that play really hard and sweat a lot and just shred the hell out of their strings might benefit from coated strings,” she says. “I’ve tried them, and they do last longer, but I just really love the feel of uncoated strings.”

Ultimately, whether or not coated strings are the secret to shredding like a rockstar is up for debate. However, many guitarists have found them to be a valuable tool in achieving their desired sound and improving their playing.