If you want to have improved sound from your instrument, one of the best ways is to choose your own guitar strings, instead of relying on somebody else to choose and restring your guitar for you.

The type of string affects the playability and sound of the guitar. If you learn to choose the best strings for your instrument, you’ll enjoy the whole process of playing your guitar much more. Here are 3 things you must know when buying guitar strings.

1. Type of guitar – Depending on the type of guitar, you should be getting a different type of guitar string. Acoustic guitars and electric guitars use metal strings, both wound and unwound. Classical guitars use nylon based strings.

The type of guitar the string is for is usually marked clearly on the package and you must only use the string that is appropriate for your guitar, if not you will risk damage to your guitar.

2. String material – Apart from the type of string, guitar strings of each type come in different materials. These include various metal alloys such as nickel and steel, amongst others. The different materials affect the overall sound and playability on your guitar. Some guitarists might prefer a brighter sound and some prefer something less bright. Get something that suits your personality.

3. Special coating – Some strings come with special coatings that help improve the playability of your guitar and also help the strings to last longer. The best example of coated strings are Elixir strings which come with a special coating known as NanoWeb which is designed to feel smoother when playing. The coating also extends the life of the strings when compared to other types of strings.

Other brands might also have similar features to increase the life of the strings. I do recommend these extended life strings as you don’t have to change the strings too often which is always a pain.

4. String tension – The string tension is usually marked clearly on the package. If you are a beginner, I recommend a string of a lower tension so they will be easier to play. Once your fingers are stronger you can proceed to use high tension strings for a fuller guitar sound.

Visit HowToStringAGuitar.Net if you want to learn how to string a guitar properly, including how to string an electric guitar.