Guitar string gauges ?

[Mick]

So, if I read it correctly, you will get the same note from a thin gauge string as you will a thicker gauge string, but at a different tension. 

Anyone know the science behind this, and what effect it will have on the playability of your guitar??  And what is your preferred setup, and why.

[Guitarglasgow]

I am not sure about the science but I do know that after years of trying to get myself to play with thicker strings (metalhead) and bigger frets, I am more content with thinner and smaller. Nines in standard tuning. 

[Mick]

Thanks for the reply.  I don't think I've tried anything below 10-46 in the past.  I'm going to have to try a set of 9's and see how they feel.  Would you recommend Slinky's or some other brand?  I get confused with all the different types tbh. 

[Guitarglasgow]

I've always used EBs, never had enough of a problem with them to try anything more expensive!

[Mick]

Thanks, I'll give a set of EB super slinky 9-42's a try. 

[Scarebear]

I find that for some reason (I don't understand the science behind this either) that 9s feel right on a Floyd Rose bridge and 10s feel right on a fixed bridge. I've always used Ernie Ball or DiAdarrio. Recently I just bought some random sets to trial the difference. I've bought (not yet installed) some Ernie Ball Cobalts, Fender Pure Nickel, and DR Tite-Fits. I also bought some Elixir strings and they're awesome (I've already put these on one of my guitars). They feel great and should last longer (if they're anything like the acoustic versions I use).

[Hinfrance]

Interesting thread.

I've got 10-46s on all of my six strings, all D'Addario. Except the acoustic which has 11s. I started off with 09s on the Squier Strat, but changed them a while back. I don't use the Floyd on that, because it's a low end guitar and I'd rather it stayed in tune.

The Elixir tip is worth a try.  I'll get some next time I send an order off to Thomann.

[Mick]

I find that for some reason (I don't understand the science behind this either) that 9s feel right on a Floyd Rose bridge and 10s feel right on a fixed bridge. I've always used Ernie Ball or DiAdarrio. Recently I just bought some random sets to trial the difference. I've bought (not yet installed) some Ernie Ball Cobalts, Fender Pure Nickel, and DR Tite-Fits. I also bought some Elixir strings and they're awesome (I've already put these on one of my guitars). They feel great and should last longer (if they're anything like the acoustic versions I use).

I'd be interested in hearing how the Ernie Ball Cobalts work out, was thinking of trying some. 

[Scarebear]

I'd be interested in hearing how the Ernie Ball Cobalts work out, was thinking of trying some. 

So far I've had the Ernie Ball Cobalts on my Squier Telecaster for a few days and I'm liking them. The sounds I'm getting through my apps (AmpliTube, AmpKit, BIAS, JamUp Pro etc) on iOS have never been clearer. I look forward to playing through the amp on the weekend. Then I'll know if there's a real difference