Forum - Banjo Ben Clark

Discuss the Banjo lesson: How to Change Banjo Strings

#21

Okay so they got here early (Tuesday), but I got busy with business work and wasn’t able to change them out until today. Only had a problem on the 5th string (first changed as per the video) and for some reason it wouldn’t hold. I ended up getting them all changed out and everything feels different. I believe I had mediums on it before so it seems way easier to play. However, I’m starting to feel like my action might be too far off. I’m headed over to watch that course now so I can make sure I’m just not losing my mind. Thanks for all the inputs and suggestions. I do like the new feel.

Also, just before I changed my strings, I went ahead and installed my spikes. Very easy to do with the video guidance on the product. I’m not to any capo courses yet but I wanted to get in front of it before they showed up and I was having to use a pen top like I was before.

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#22

Way to go, dude! I love that you’re just getting in there!

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#23

Also to note, I have a Presto tail piece and getting those hooks to catch the strings was a battle in itself. I feel like I spend more time clipping my nails than doing banjo maintenance so I didn’t really have anything left on my fingers to guide that loops around there. If anyone has a tip or trick with that, I would greatly appreciate it.

#24

what is the difference between light and medium gauge strings? does it matter with different kinds of banjo brands. I have a BG 150f Gold Tone banjo. I haven’t changed them since I got the banjo after 2 years. it still sounds okay, but it goes out of tune quickly. I need some guidance.

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#25

Light gauge strings are easier to bend. But prone to snapping especially the 5th string

#26

if I went for the light gauge would the 5th string snap if I were to tune it to A?

#27

Light gauge would actually be less likely to snap tuning up than mediums. After all, higher pitched strings are a lighter gauge (e.g. the average high D might be a 10 and the low D a 20). They might be more prone to snapping with bends, but I think that’s unlikely to happen in standard tuning. Anyway, change them strings ASAP if they’ve been on for two years! You’ll feel a massive difference.

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#28

In my experience generally speaking NO. However constant retuning does cause metal fatigue. You don’t want to be tuning up beyond A.

#29

I have never had a Medium Gauge string snap on me. I have been playing 18 years. As a beginner I snapped lots of Light Gauge strings.

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#30

Yes, I meant specifically for tuning up (since higher tuned strings are lighter gauges)

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#31

Ok, thank you guys for the help. I’m probably going to get both just in case something wrong happens. again, thank you for the help, I appreciate it!

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#32

I think you’ll dig the lights for how they feel/sound on the banjo. But getting both is a good idea to see what your banjo prefers!

#33

So, I just got the strings today and got them on, I realize my old strings were medium. The light feels lighter and looser, and much easier to bend. I did realize something that I had done completely wrong. when I looped the strings to the inside on the left, I did the opposite way to the right. looping to the outside. Will it be ok for now? I already cut them after I tuned it. but overall, it sounds great! more of a sharp accuracy to the sound. its A little uncomfortable for now but I’m sure it will get more comfortable after I mess around with them. the first 2 were rough, but after I got the hang of it, I got the rest done in 10 min. Thank you Mr. Ben for the suggestions, I’m loving the sound!!

#34

You only get one chance to fit NEW strings. If you mess up you gotta buy another NEW set. Always buy at least two sets that way you increase the odds of getting it right.

#35

noted, thanks!

#36

They’re fine for now, just remember for next time! Yes, I think you’ll get used to them and end up liking them as much or more than the mediums.

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