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A while ago, I received multiple sets of bluegrass gauge strings from other EGFers to try out.
I first used a set of GHS Vintage PB in 12-56 for my E10SS/v. That guitar did NOT like that set of strings. I left them on for a few weeks, but it was shortly after I had purchased the guitar and was becoming quite disappointed with the guitar overall because it seemed like the volume was turned down and I couldn't find how to turn it back up. Well, decided to try Martin Lifespan PB 12-54 and it was transformed into what I hoped I purchased. My conclusion is that the string was choking the top, although it may be that the Vintage Bronze was just too subdued for my taste. I'll experiment again, but the Lifespans are still going strong after 3-4 months later.
Well, two weeks ago I decided to take my E2D for a set up. I was having too much difficulty fretting bar chords close to the nut. I need the nut slots deepened and the nut slots were also pinching the strings when tuning. Although I've been happy to replace and sand a saddle and replace a nut entirely, but I decided to take it in to someone who knew what they were doing for this job. Turns out my closest music store has an in-house luthier who previously worked as a luthier for Bourgeois Guitars! That's all I needed to see and took it in to have a chat with him. Long story short, he did a fabulous job on the set up. But I also brought in a set of Martin 80/20 Bluegrass gauge to try out. I was thinking the 80/20s may suit a cedar top and the dread may not shy away from the 12-56 gauge. And... yep! I have mostly enjoyed PB strings, but the added focus of 80/20 has been a welcomed addition to the cedar top. And while the PB Lifespans I was using on the E2D sounded great, the added clarity and volume has been fantastic. Plus, with the new set up, I'm just really enjoying everything about the guitar.
Anyways, I still have a few sets. And one of the other ones may make it on to the E10SS/v in the near future, just to give it another shot. But i'm really happy with the strings currently on both guitars.
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