String suggestions?

[Jasaoke]

It's time I look into a new brand of strings. I've used D'Addario XLs (nickel) for some time but I'm now convinced that they have some quality control issues. I break a LOT of D strings (.026), and I mean a lot. Over the past 3 years, I don't think I've broken any that weren't Ds. Right at the point where the string contacts the saddle (Tune-o-matic) And it happens quickly.

Keep in mind, I've experienced the same problem, to different degrees, with 3 different bridge/saddle assemblies, so I'm inclined to think that the problem is not with the guitar.

I suppose my question is: what kind of strings do you recommend?

I tried them all way back when and settled on the D'Addarios because (at the time) they lasted way longer than anything else. I like longevity. That's the main criteria for me. I'll work around silly things like 'tone' and 'playability', I need something rugged.

*note: I really like the D'Addario ProSteels, but haven't found a local shop that carries them. A pack of strings that I don't have to mail-order is a big plus

[lonewolf]

Get Graph-Tech String Saver saddles for your Tune-O-Matic bridge. End of problem.

http://www.graphtech.com/products.html?CategoryID=3

[skipisode]

Had same issue in past with Les Paul on D string. It turned out to be a snag on the bridge assembly. Used some graphite...helped a bit... then ended up filing and fine sanding the spot. Took care of problem, and never happened again. Did not matter what brand of string I used.

[mjb]

my first suggestion would have been saddle but u covered that i guess.

i use the ernie ball regular slinky 10s they hold up real nice. hardly ever break'em if i do, its an E or B.

[Jasaoke]

Thanks guys.

Lonewolf, I actually just took the String Savers off. The strings had worn notches into the saddles and they 1) were no longer saving any strings and 2) were preventing the guitar from properly intonating.

I've been reluctant to sand or grind on the saddles; I'm worried that it would adversely affect intonation and action. Is this a major concern? Or should I just proceed with caution?

I haven't checked out Ernie Ball in a while, so I'll give them a shot as well.

[lonewolf]

Thanks guys.

Lonewolf, I actually just took the String Savers off. The strings had worn notches into the saddles and they 1) were no longer saving any strings and 2) were preventing the guitar from properly intonating.

I've been reluctant to sand or grind on the saddles; I'm worried that it would adversely affect intonation and action. Is this a major concern? Or should I just proceed with caution?

I haven't checked out Ernie Ball in a while, so I'll give them a shot as well.

Unfortunately, String Savers wear out after awhile and must be replaced. The alternative is to get a super fine file and remove any burrs or sharp edges that may have formed on the saddle. Then, take some emory cloth and smooth it out. If the burrs are minimal, the emory cloth by itself might do the trick--try that 1st before filing. This shouldn't affect the intonation, but even if it does, you can readjust it.

I have found that a different brand of string doesn't make that much difference.

[VENTGtr]

If it does end up being an issue with the strings, which isn't unheard of, check out DRs. Stiffer, bit more fight to them, they recommend not pre-stretching.

[bassist_25]

I found Ernie Balls to be a good string but never retained tone as long as I would have liked. That's actually one of the reasons why I switched over to D'Addarios. And yes, a big +1 on wishing some local stores carried Prosteels. Thank God for Juststrings.com.

To coattail off of Dave's DR recommendation, for longevity, you may want to give their coated strings a whirl (e.g., Black Beauties, Red Devils, etc.). For bass strings, I found them to be a darker sounding string than D'addarios or Ernie Balls, which I'm sure would translate the same for guitar.

[Jasaoke]

Right on. I've been curious about DRs. Any place around Altoona carry them?

[bassist_25]

I'm pretty sure Music Emporium carries DR.