Help me find the string gauge for my LP

Lux84

New member
So, i decided to go to Standard D tuning with my Les Paul Style guitar. I am torn between 11-54 and 12-56 gauges. I'll be using Drop C tuning as well on that guitar.

I have 10-48 set right now on, in Standard E tuning, and it's good enough for Drop D. I have had 11-52 in E Flat tuning on my SG years ago, and it was a little tight, but as i remember quite ok.

Should i try 11-54 or 12-56 for Standard D with Drop C ? i use Ernie Balls. i use lot of bends too.. Thanx !
 
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Re: Help me find the string gauge for my LP

I like 11-52s on Gibson scale guitars for standard tuning. They fight a bit more for bends, but sound better to me. Your fingers will adapt in a couple weeks. D standard I'd give the 12s a shot.
 
Re: Help me find the string gauge for my LP

What kind of sound are you going for? Modern metal, go thicker. Stoner rock, go lighter. You'll be able to get used to the tension either way.
 
Re: Help me find the string gauge for my LP

I really see no need to go to 11's and especially not 12's. On 24.5" scale guitars 10-54's sound just fine anmd your fingers will love you for it if you do lots of bends.

Big strings don't make you more macho. Look at the Rev. Gibbon's strings (some as small as 7's), I wouldn't call him or his tone anything less than macho!!
 
Re: Help me find the string gauge for my LP

the rev is one skinny mofo and his tone has everything to do with his rig. im not saying skinny strings are bad but find the tension that works for you. 10-52 would be too slinky for me a whole step down even on a strat. start with 11's and see how that works. strings are relatively cheap so you can experiment and see how it feels. play it for a while with 11's and if it feels too slack, get a set of 12's next time you change strings
 
Re: Help me find the string gauge for my LP

EH, I use 11-56 for that tuning on 25.5 scale.

I'd go 12-56 if I were you, 11-54 if you were used to 9's in standard.
 
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