Going to Smaller Strings

[jalevinemd]

This question is mainly for the guitarists out there as our tiny strings can get us into trouble.


I currently use hybrid 9-46 . I have been thinking about trying 10-46. My concern is that if the nut and saddle slots get slightly wider because of the larger string gauge, will I run into problems with string sticking, etc...should I decide to go back to the 9-46?

[xlrogue6]

You are very unlikely to run into slot width problems with that change. Your wound strings are the same, the diameter of your plain strings is only increasing by .001-.002, well within tolerance for your nut and saddle slots. The files these slots are cut with aren't that specific.

[jalevinemd]

That's kinda what I figured. I've done it before with bone nuts and had no trouble. The brass nut is what is concerning to me...more so than the saddles.

[lbpesq]

Jonathan, going from 9s to 10s shouldn't be any problem.  The clearance over the first fret should be about the same as the clearance over the second fret while fingering the first fret.  In other words, check the distance from the top of the first fret to the high E string without touching the high E string.  Then press down on the high E at the first fret and check the clearance from the top of the second fret to the string.  They should be about the same.  If the 10 is too wide for the nut slot (which I STRONGLY doubt is the case), you will see more clearance over the first fret when the E string isn't fretted. 

Hope this makes sense.

Bill, tgo

[jalevinemd]

Thanks, Bill.