The Collings Forum

Queried this topic and didn't come up with anything, so sincere apologies if this is covered elsewhere. I would love to hear if anyone is playing lighter strings on their D model (I play a D1A) other than the standard EJ-17 (.013"- .056"). In particular, are you playing (and happy with the outcome) something lighter than mediums? Thank you.

On my D sized guitars I prefer a hybrid set. I use the John Pearse New Mediums 13, 17, 24, 32, 42, 55

Hokiebob wrote: ↑Wed Jun 12, 2019 5:03 pm On my D sized guitars I prefer a hybrid set. I use the John Pearse New Mediums 13, 17, 24, 32, 42, 55

Same here.

I’ve owed a a D2H and a CJ that came with EJ17 per factory specs. I went back and forth with Lights, New Mediums, and back to Mediums too many times to count. In the end, I thought that medium gauge strings gave the most tone and the deepest thump. I prefer the feel of Lights, but not enough to give up the improvement in tone for my ears. I’m going through the same circular trials with my newly purchased C100 that came with EJ17 Mediums. I tried to tell myself that Lights felt better and in fact sounded a little better too. However, I’m already back to Mediums and find that I like the tone more; and while increased finger pressure is required, it’s not too much to bear with low action. Actually I’m enjoying the somewhat mellow tone of (coated) EXP17 strings on the C100. It’s the only guitar I currently own strung with Mediums.

I string all of my acoustics with D'Addario Light gauge PB strings. Love 'em!

Bill

'13 Collings D2H
'14 Collings D2HA
'99 Collings D-1
'97 Martin D-45V
'69 Martin D-35
'17 Martin '37 D-28A
'71 Guild F312NT
'19 Martin Custom 000-18GE

D'Addario EJ24 True Meds are much similar to JP New Meds, I use them on my CJmhA or EJ17s.

Have gone back and forth the last two years with lights (EJ16s) and mediums (EJ17s) on my CJ35. I find it's not simply a choice based on ease of play, but of which tone I prefer. Most of the time I prefer the tone of the lights, particularly for accompanying vocals. It's not as rich a sound as the mediums produce, but it's both crisper and more delicate for me. But after a while, I'll put the EJ17s on to get a fuller, richer palette.

To answer your immediate question: yes, I'm very happy with the lights on the CJ35. They sound terrific.

Never tried lights on the D2A I had for just over a year.

Hello,
I own a D2H (1999) and a D1 (2002) and use Newtones or Pyramids round cores medium strings.
The tension is slightly lower with a slightly rounder tone to my ears.

Mediums, new Mediums, or Lights on my D2HT. All work, just a little more power in the Mediums.

My D1T arrived with D'Addario J17's. I have a set of what has become my "go to" strings, Martin Monel Retro mediums on it right now. I like them just fine, but I plan to try a set of DR Rare 13-56 and a set of SCGC Mid Tension on future string changes.