banjo changing between nylon and metal strings

Now that you have found packs of strings that are meant for your type of banjo, you might find different gauges available. This is because the string tension will be so much looser (similar to what happens when tuning a 5 string to open E) when tuned to the Irish tuning, so you will want a heavier gauge string to compensate. We recommend using the Deering Julia Belle strings when playing in this tuning.Īnother tuning where you should use a different set of strings is Irish tuning (G, D, A, E) on a tenor banjo I f you are tuning your tenor banjo in Irish tuning, you should look for a set that is meant for that tuning as oppose to using a set that is meant for standard tenor tuning (C, G, D, A). In this tuning you are tuning the banjo down so low that with a standard set of strings the string tension can become so loose that the tone and playability of your banjo suffers. One example of a different tuning where you should use a different set of strings is open E tuning (E, B, E, G#, B) on a 5 string banjo. You do not need to change your strings to tune your banjo to most alternate tunings, but some tunings are different enough that a different set of strings should be used.

The different types of banjos can have different numbers of strings, tunings, scale lengths, and ways to attach to the tailpiece.

There are dedicated string sets for the specific type of banjo you are using (5 string, tenor, plectrum, 6 string, banjo uke, etc.).

The first thing to look at is to make sure you have the correct set for the type of banjo you have and the tuning you are using. The different string gauges, material used, the way the strings are manufactured, coatings, and the way they attach all effect the way they sound and play. Every player has their own personal preference of what they like. Choosing the correct set of banjo strings for your instrument have a big effect on the tone and playability of your banjo.

Banjo changing between nylon and metal strings