It’s a question we’ve heard countless times before. Whether they want a softer guitar tone, a gentler touch, or they’re asking just out of sheer curiosity, many guitarists have pondered whether they can use nylon strings for steel string guitars. Let’s dive in and explore!
What are Nylon Strings?
Nylon strings are primarily used on classical guitars. Made of nylon (no surprise there), they are gentler on the fingers, producing a warm, mellow tone perfect for fingerstyle or classical music.
Looking for the best classical guitars? We’ve got you covered.
The Difference Between Nylon and Steel String Guitars
Here’s a fun fact: nylon string guitars and steel string acoustics have distinct design differences that accommodate their respective string types.
Nylon string guitars, or classical guitars, often have a wider neck and a flat fingerboard. Why? Well, this design allows for intricate fingerpicking and provides enough space between the strings. They also often don’t come with a truss rod and are usually made out of softer woods.
On the other hand, steel string acoustic guitars are constructed to handle the tension and resonate the bright, punchy sound of steel strings. Their necks are narrower, and their bridges are slightly angled.
The Benefits of Nylon Strings
Ah, the sweet allure of nylon strings! Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or someone who’s just picked up their first guitar, there’s something undeniably special about the feel and sound of nylon. With a range of benefits, it’s clear to see why this string type is a must-have for many guitarists.
Gentle on the Fingers: Nylon strings are like the comfy sneakers of the guitar world. They are considerably softer than steel strings when playing guitar, which is a godsend for beginners. No more painful fingertips or blisters after a long practice session! It’s no wonder many guitar teachers recommend starting with a classical nylon string guitar before they move on to steel.
Warm, Mellow Tone: Nylon strings produce a rich and warm tone that’s distinctly different from the bright and punchy sound of steel strings. This mellowness is used in genres like classical, flamenco, and bossa nova. The distinct tone can make a simple chord progression sound profoundly emotional.
Perfect for Fingerstyle: Have you ever tried intricate fingerpicking on steel strings? It’s doable, but fingerstyle is a whole lot more forgiving and expressive on nylon strings. The wider gaps and softer touch can help guitarists master those complex fingerstyle techniques, especially if they’re just starting out.
Versatility in Sound Dynamics: One of the joys of playing on nylon strings is the ability to manipulate sound dynamics easily. With a gentle touch, you can produce soft, whispered notes. Dig in a little, and the guitar responds with louder, more pronounced sounds, all without the harshness that can sometimes come from steel strings.
Unique Sonic Character: Artists like Willie Nelson, who opt for nylon strings on non-classical guitars, are looking for a unique sound. It provides a character that sets their music apart from the mainstream. If you’re searching for a way to make your music stand out, nylon strings might be your secret weapon.
Economic Considerations: Steel vs. Nylon Strings
For many guitarists, choosing between nylon and steel strings isn’t just about sound and playability; it’s also a matter of cost. Let’s dive deep into the wallet side of things and see how steel and nylon strings compare economically and which option is better for the budget-conscious.
Initial Purchase Price
Nylon Strings: Typically, a good set of nylon strings will cost you anywhere from $7 to $20, depending on brand and quality. Premium sets, which may offer improved tone or longer life, can be pricier.
Steel Strings: A decent set of steel strings can range from $5 to $30. As with nylon, brand and quality can influence the price. Specialty strings, like coated strings or those with rare metals, can be on the higher end of the spectrum and might produce a different sound.
Longevity
Nylon Strings: Nylon strings tend to have a longer ‘playable’ lifespan than steel strings. While they might lose some of their initial brilliance over time, they can last several months to a year before they really need replacing.
Steel Strings: Steel strings lose their brightness and can corrode or rust over time, especially if exposed to moisture or acidic sweat. On average, regular players might find themselves changing steel strings every 1-3 months. However, there are coated steel strings available that resist corrosion and can extend string life, albeit at a higher price point. These are essential for buskers, traveling musicians, or anyone else who might find their guitar strings exposed to the elements.
Maintenance Costs
Nylon Strings: These strings require minimal maintenance. Occasionally, wiping them down with a clean cloth is typically sufficient. They’re also less prone to snapping compared to steel, which means fewer unexpected string replacements.
Steel Strings: Steel strings require a bit more care. Using string cleaners or conditioners can extend their life, but these products add to maintenance costs. Additionally, due to their susceptibility to breaking, having spare sets on hand (and the potential cost of more frequent replacements) should be considered.
Replacement and Labor
Nylon Strings: While nylon strings last longer, they can be a tad trickier to replace for beginners due to their winding method on classical guitar tuning pegs. If you’re not comfortable changing them yourself, a professional restring might cost more compared to steel strings, but it will help you get the string tension you need.
Steel Strings: This type of string is easier and quicker to change, especially with the ball-end design. If you opt for professional assistance, steel-string replacements are often less labor-intensive and slightly cheaper.
When weighing the economic considerations of steel and nylon strings, look beyond just the initial purchase price. Factor in how often you play, the environments you play in, and your maintenance habits. While nylon strings might seem like the more economical choice at first glance, the right choice is highly individual and depends on a guitarist’s specific needs and circumstances.
If you’re looking for classical guitars on a budget, check out this article.
The Risks of Switching from Steel to Nylon
“Okay, so nylon strings sound awesome. I’m just going to put them on my steel string acoustic guitar and call it a day.”
Not so fast, eager beaver!
Tension and Setup
As we mentioned earlier, nylon strings have a lower tension than steel strings. Using nylon strings on steel string guitars might lead to issues like buzzing or a too-low action. And remember the G, B, and E strings? They could be too thick for your guitar’s nut slots. Prepare for a potential visit to your local guitar technician for some tweaks!
Bridge Placement
This is an interesting one. Classical guitars have their bridges perpendicular to the strings. In comparison, steel string guitars have a slight angle. This difference means you might face intonation challenges when putting nylon strings on your steel-stringed beauty.
String Type
If your steel string guitar uses ball-end strings held in place by pesky bridge pins, you can’t use typical classical guitar strings. Your solution? Get those ball-end nylon strings. Yes, they exist!
Tuning Stability
Oh, how we love tuning our guitars! And with nylon strings on a steel string acoustic, you might be doing it a tad more often. Nylon, by its nature, is a bit more temperamental when it comes to staying in tune.
Sound and Playability
Remember, while nylon strings offer a unique sound, they lack the bright punch of steel strings. They bring a more muted, mellow vibe. So, think about your music. If you’re into rock, country, or pop, the tone might not be what you’re expecting.
Tips for Using Nylon Strings on a Steel-String Acoustic Guitar!
So, you still want to use your nylon strings on your trusty steel string? Exciting times! But as with any great guitar experiment, there are a few things you should know to ensure the smoothest transition possible.
Adjust the Nut and Bridge: One of the first things you might notice when putting nylon strings on a steel-string acoustic guitar is that they don’t fit perfectly into the nut slots. You might need to slightly widen these slots to accommodate the thicker nylon strings, especially the G, B, and E strings. As mentioned above, consider visiting a professional luthier for these adjustments.
Check Intonation: Remember, steel string acoustic guitars have a slightly angled bridge, while classical guitars have a perpendicular one. This can affect intonation. After restringing, play each note up and down the fretboard to ensure it’s in tune. Adjustments might be necessary!
Frequent Tuning Checks: Nylon, being a naturally stretchy material, can take some time to settle. In the initial days after restringing, you might find yourself tuning more frequently. Don’t be discouraged; it’s just the strings finding their groove!
Adjust Your Playing Style: Nylon strings bring a softer touch and a different sound profile. If you’re used to aggressively strumming on steel strings, you might want to adjust your technique. Embrace the softer dynamics of nylon and explore the wide range of tones it offers.
Regular Maintenance: Nylon strings can accumulate dirt and oils from your fingers over time. Wipe down your strings after each session, and consider changing them every few months to maintain their warm, vibrant tone.
Experiment with Genres: Nylon strings on a steel string acoustic open up a world of musical possibilities. From blending flamenco techniques into folk tunes to adding classical vibes to pop songs, the sky’s the limit. Dive into different genres and discover new sonic landscapes!
Alternative String Types: Beyond Just Nylon and Steel
While the guitar universe largely revolves around nylon and steel strings, they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Delving deeper, one discovers a rich tapestry of alternative strings, each offering unique tonal landscapes and playability. Let’s embark on a sonic journey and explore these lesser-known string types.
Silk and Steel Strings
These strings cleverly combine silver-plated copper wire wound around a silk and steel core. This fusion results in strings that strike a balance between the distinct characteristics of nylon and steel.
Tonal Characteristics: Emitting a sound that has the warmth of nylon but with a hint of the brightness of steel, they’re a top pick for folk enthusiasts and fingerstyle aficionados.
Playability: The silk component ensures a gentler touch, making these strings easier on the fingers and reducing fatigue.
Carbon Fiber Strings
These are crafted from a synthetic material, offering a departure from traditional string materials. They’re the new kids on the block but are quickly making their mark.
Tonal Characteristics: Known for their bright and clear tone, they can be likened to the fluorocarbon strings of ukuleles. Their distinct, contemporary edge appeals to innovative musicians looking to push sonic boundaries.
Playability: Their resilience to environmental factors like humidity means they hold their tune impressively well.
Other Benefits: Being synthetic, they resist the corrosion that plagues metal strings, and for those with metal allergies, they present a hypoallergenic choice.
Copper Strings
Unlike the commonly used bronze or phosphor-bronze strings, copper strings are made primarily of copper. They offer a unique alternative in the world of metallic strings.
Tonal Characteristics: Copper strings produce a warm, mellow sound. They lack some of the brightness of traditional steel strings, making them an excellent choice for jazz or blues genres where a more subdued, velvety tone is desired.
Playability: They tend to be softer on the fingers compared to their steel counterparts and offer a smooth playing experience for the acoustic guitar.
Other Benefits: Copper has natural antimicrobial properties, which can be beneficial for those who play frequently or sweat a lot, as it helps to keep the strings cleaner.
Piecing the Sonic Puzzle Together
If we were to visualize the tonal spectrum with nylon on one end and steel on the other, silk and steel strings would comfortably nestle in the middle. Meanwhile, carbon fiber strings introduce an entirely new sonic palette, offering a fresh experience. Copper strings, with their velvety tones, would find their place closer to the nylon side but with a unique metallic warmth all their own.
In the grand tapestry of guitar music, these alternative string types weave in fresh patterns and textures. For the adventurous guitarist, each string type offers a new avenue of exploration, promising fresh sounds and inspirations.
Wrapping it Up
So, to answer the burning question, can you put nylon strings on a steel string guitar? Technically, yes. But, as with any modification, there are considerations and trade-offs.
For some, the warmth of nylon guitar strings on a steel string acoustic guitar brings a distinctive character to their music. For others, the traditional crispness and volume of steel strings are irreplaceable. Whatever your choice, experiment and find the sound that resonates with you. There’s no problem with putting steel strings on a classical guitar and vice versa if you know how to do it. And never forget: the best guitar is the one you love to play.