What’s the Deal with Coated Guitar Strings? Do They Really Last Longer? And Do They Affect Tone?
If you’re an avid guitar player, you’ve most likely come across the term “coated guitar strings” at some point. But what exactly are they and do they really make a difference in your playing? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of coated guitar strings and answer two questions that are on every guitarist’s mind: Do they really last longer? And do they affect tone?
Let’s first start with the basics: What are coated guitar strings? Coated guitar strings are strings that are covered with a protective layer, usually made of polymer, to prevent moisture, dirt, and oils from building up on the strings. This protective layer helps to extend the life of the strings by preventing corrosion and oxidation, which is the main reason why strings begin to sound dull and lose their tonal quality. Coated guitar strings are also known for having a smoother feel, which is preferred by some guitarists who play with a lot of bends and slides.
Now, let’s dive into the two questions that you’re itching to know the answers to.
Do Coated Guitar Strings Really Last Longer?
The short answer is, yes, they do. Coated guitar strings are designed to last longer than regular strings, which is why they typically cost more. The protective layer on the strings helps to prevent corrosion and oxidation, which is the main reason why regular strings begin to sound dull and lose their tonal quality. This means that coated guitar strings will maintain their brightness and tone for a longer period of time.
A study conducted by Martin Guitar found that coated guitar strings can last up to four times longer than regular strings. This means that you won’t have to change your strings as often, which is great news for those who don’t enjoy changing their guitar strings.
However, it’s important to note that the lifespan of your coated guitar strings will vary depending on how often you play, your playing style, and the environment that you play in. For example, if you live in a humid climate or play in a sweaty environment, your coated guitar strings may not last as long as they would in a dry environment.
So, while coated guitar strings do last longer, it’s important to keep in mind that they won’t last forever and will eventually need to be replaced.
Do Coated Guitar Strings Affect Tone?
This is a question that has sparked a lot of debate among guitarists. Some guitarists swear by coated guitar strings and believe that they have a better tone than regular strings, while others believe that they have a negative effect on tone.
The main argument against coated guitar strings is that the protective layer on the strings dampens the vibration of the string, which can lead to a loss of sustain and a duller tone. However, proponents of coated guitar strings argue that the protective layer actually enhances the tone by preventing the buildup of dirt and oils on the strings, which can also cause a loss of sustain and a dull tone.
In reality, the effect that coated guitar strings have on tone is subjective and depends on the individual player’s preferences. Some guitarists prefer the brighter, crisper tone of regular strings, while others prefer the warmer, mellow tone of coated strings.
It’s important to note that different brands of coated guitar strings will also have their own unique tone. Some brands may have a brighter tone, while others may have a warmer tone. So, it’s important to experiment with different brands to find the one that you prefer.
In conclusion, coated guitar strings do last longer than regular strings and can have a positive effect on tone, depending on the individual player’s preferences. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the lifespan of coated guitar strings will vary depending on how often you play and the environment that you play in. If you’re looking to try out coated guitar strings, it’s worth experimenting with different brands to find the ones that work best for you.
Image Credit: Pexels