Guitar People: Snapped a Guitar String, Any Suggestions? ?

Question

Hey guys,

I've searched other questions, but none really directly answer my question at hand. I just bought a new Yamaha FG700S acoustic guitar and I love it (I'm a BRAND NEW guitar player). However, I accidentally already snapped my small 'e' string.

Now, I know guitar strings come in different gauges. However, my question would be, how do I know what gauge my current guitar strings are (i.e. what gauge are stock strings). And also, if I replace my small 'e' string, do I have to replace all of the other strings in order to sound good? I ask this because I'm worried if I just replace the small 'e,' the differing gauges will not match up.

And lastly, any preferences for what types of strings I should get? The current strings aren't hard to play on at all, and my fingers barely ever hurt, so I wouldn't mind the same ones.

Any help is appreciated!

Answer 1

Its hard telling what gauge strings came on your guitar, I would guess they were a medium gauge string. I always change the strings on any new instrument immediately. I use light gauge strings to a lot of lead work, fingerpicking and then I use Medium gauge strings for rhythm work.



I have always used Ernie balls for electric and Martin strings for acoustic.



As you get more playing experience, you'll start changing out things and experimenting with different gauges.



Anytime I break a string, I replace every single string. As you play, crud (for lack of a better word) gets built into the string, the strings lose their sustain, thus affecting your tone. So, its better to replace your strings frequently and all at once anyways. Stringing your guitar sux, but its good for your playing. If you just put the strings on and broke it while tuning, thats another story.



I hope I was able to help you. Have fun playing.



EDIT: Since we're not sure of the brand or the gauge of string, I would replace every single string. Do you fingerpick or use a pick more? If you fingerpick more, you may want to think of trying a light gauge string. Many players use a medium gauge string. Also, I think its a good idea to replace the stock strings anyways which usually are not that great.

Answer 2

You say you've just bought the guitar, so I assume the strings are still pretty new. You do not need to change them all just cos you broke a string. I woiuld guess that your top string is probably an 11 gauge.

For acoustic, I use Ernie Ball Earthwood bronze.

Hope this helps

Answer 3

Depending on where the string is breaking (at the bridge or headstock) most likely the saddle or machine head or nut has a burr or imperfection and is causing the string to break. With the string off, inspect the saddle or machine head or nut for any burrs or cuts both visually and by touch. If anything is noticeable, use extra-fine sand paper to smooth it out. Also if it's the saddle or nut, rub the groove with a pencil or powdered graphite to keep it lubricated. If either the saddle or machine head is too worn, you'll need to get new part.

Answer 4

Pretty hard to tell what guage you already have on there, unless you happen to have a micrometer handy. Yes, you should replace all the strings rather than just one. I like D'Addario strings myself (for acoustic and electric) and on my acoustic I have Phosphor Bronze 12-53 guage strings. You might like them too, but its always nice to try different brands/guages and see what you like best.

Answer 5

I like the Elixir lite gage strings, I would always change all the strings at the same time too!

Answer 6

get it replaced asap mine broke then it accidently broke in half so if were you id get it fixed fast