How to install strings on an electric guitar. How to string guitar strings

Every experienced guitarist knows that strings need to be changed regularly. If this rule is neglected, the sound of the guitar and its general condition will deteriorate rapidly. Therefore, every beginner sooner or later faces the question “how to change guitar strings”. The process of changing strings on acoustic guitar, electric guitar and bass guitar will be discussed below.

For most beginner musicians, this process seems eerily complicated and incomprehensible.

In fact, you do not need to possess any special skills, and even a person who is far from music can change the strings with a clear and step-by-step instruction.

Professional guitarists change strings every month or even every week. However, for an amateur guitarist who devotes about an hour a day to his hobby, it is enough to change the strings every two to three months. In general, the question "how often to change the strings" is quite philosophical. There are a huge number of manufacturers, materials and thickness standards. You can understand all this diversity by reading here. One set of strings can perform its functions properly for three months, and the other will become unusable in a couple of weeks. Therefore, the best option is to monitor the condition of the strings daily and purchase a new set if:

• You notice that the sound of the guitar has become "faded" and inexpressive;
• You have to tune your guitar more and more;
• The strings catch on the frets;
• External signs appeared - loss of color, shape.

Does it sound like your guitar? - Go to the store for a new set!

How to change strings on an acoustic guitar

Today, there are two types of acoustics on store shelves - for nylon strings and metal ones. The nylon-string guitar is commonly referred to as "classical" - it is usually taught in music schools and played exclusively with fingers, without a pick. Guitar with metal - "dreadnought" or "western". It is not worth betting on "western" nylon or "classic" metal - such experiments, at best, will spoil the sound, and at worst, the neck will be bent.

First, let's figure out how to change the strings on an acoustic guitar with metal strings.

1. Loosen the pegs manually or with a special wrench.
2. Take the strings out of the pegs, unwind them.
3. Remove the pins (plugs) that hold the strings in a fixed position from the holder. We recommend using a special tool instead of pliers or pliers. But if neither one nor the other is at hand, use any coin.
4. Take out the strings.
5. Do not be too lazy to wipe hard-to-reach, with strings stretched, places on the hyphae and soundboard.
6. Time for new strings. The optimal string tension order is 1st, 6th. 2nd, 5th, 3rd, 4th. This method gives more space to the hands.
7. Insert the string into the hole on the holder and press down with the cork until it stops.
8. Insert the other end into the peg and wrap it around.
9. Wind the strings to an approximate working condition. The first three strings are stretched clockwise, the rest - against. Remember to hold on to the plugs, otherwise the string may pop out.
10. Using wire cutters, remove the remaining ends.

The difference in setting the strings on the classic and the dreadnought lies in the different mounting on the holders. In the "classic", as a rule, there are no traffic jams - the strings are attached with a knot.

• Thread the string into the holder.
• Make a loop - bring the end of the string behind the main part.
• Wrap the end around the string and thread it through the loop to make a knot.
• Press the string against the deck.
• Tighten the string tighter by pulling the main body and the end in different directions.

How to change strings on an electric guitar

1. Use a wrench or manually loosen the tension.
2. Pull the strings through the back of the guitar. To make it easier to grab the strings, put the strings through the hole. If you have a typewriter like Floyd Rose, then with a special key you need to loosen the “saddles” for the strings.
3. Don't forget to take care of your guitar - wipe it down with a lint-free cloth.
4. Before installing new strings, place the guitar at a comfortable level on a soft surface so as not to leave scratches.
5. Turn the peg hole to face you.
6. Pass the strings through the holes on the back or place them in the saddles of the Floyd Rose system.
7. Slightly press the string and slowly pull it.
8. Next, insert into the peg and start winding.
9. Trim the rest of the strings.

How to change strings on a bass guitar

1. Gradually loosen the tension on the strings with the pegs until the tension is gone completely.
2. When the strings are free, pull them out one by one.
3. Pull the strings through the tailpiece or body, depending on the model.
4. Wipe down the guitar with a cloth.
5. Stretch the strings in the same way as you removed the previous set.
6. Gently and slowly pull the strings through the guide.
7. Wrap until about two centimeters of the remaining string remains.
8. Bend the ends of the strings and place them in the groove.

Changing strings on an electric guitar is a common, but far from the most pleasant, experience. Despite the general principles, differences in instrument designs add some nuance to the typical string changing process.

Reinstalling a set of strings on an electric guitar is essentially no different from (the task is still the same - remove the old strings and put on new ones). Nevertheless, in order to change the strings on an electric guitar, you need to perform a series of actions with the guitar pegs and the bridge (bridge). website teaches beginner guitarists how to change the strings on an electric guitar.

How to change strings on an electric guitar: a guide for beginner guitarists. Content:

What you need to change the strings on an electric guitar

The main work when changing a set of strings is connected with their fastening on the tuning pegs and in the bridge. Depending on the type of these two elements, changing the strings can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Conventionally, electric guitar string holders can be divided into two types:

1. Ordinary fixed;
2. Breeches with tremolo systems (Bigsby, Floyd Rose, Ibanez Edge PRO).

In turn, there are three types of guitar pegs:

1. Standard tuners;
2. Lockable pegs (local);
3. Vintage pegs.

In order to change the strings on an electric guitar, you will need:

• New set of strings;
• Well-lit, spacious workplace;
• Nippers or pliers;
• Scotch tape and marker (optional, for Bigsby cars);
• Set of hex keys (optional, for Floyd Rose);
• Screwdriver set (optional, for Floyd Rose);
• Wooden block, eraser or thick fabric (optional, for Floyd Rose);
• String winder (optional)
• Guitar tuner for tuning your guitar (if you don't know which tuner to choose, then refer to).

Depending on the type of bridge and pegs used on the guitar, a different set of tools will be required to install a new set of strings.

Changing strings on an electric guitar takes place in four consecutive steps:

1. Removing the old kit;
2. Installation (fastening) of new strings in the bridge;
3. Attaching new strings to the tuning pegs;
4. Tool tuning.

With the first step, everything is simple: just twist the old set from the pegs and remove them, or simply cut the old strings with metal scissors or wire cutters. The last step also does not need additional comments: after changing the strings, you need to wait a while for the strings to stretch, and then tune the guitar to the tuner. The main difficulty when changing strings is usually associated with the bridge and the tuning pegs.

Stringing in the bridge

The bridge or string holder is one of the most important parts of an electric guitar. In addition to fixing the strings, this element is responsible for their height above the fingerboard, the scale of the instrument and the performance of a number of other functions, if the design allows it.

The process of changing strings has a number of features related to the type of bridge. With fixed bridges, everything is extremely simple - just remove the old set and install a new one. With tremolo systems, the situation is more complicated: the strings are attached to the movable part of the tailpiece, which stretches or compresses the string to change the pitch of sounding notes, which complicates the process of replacing and detuning the instrument.

Let's figure out how to change the strings on an electric guitar with different types of bridges.

How to change strings on an electric guitar with a fixed bridge

In the case of fixed bridges, everything is extremely simple. The strings are rigidly fixed to the body of the electric guitar, so replacement does not require any special approach. Remove the old set of strings by first removing them from the pegs, and then install new strings by threading them through the holes in the bridge.

Fixed Tune-o-Matic bridge.

Fixed Bridge Hardtail.

When installing a new set, make sure the strings fit into all of the grooves on the bridge. When working with Tune-o-Matic, be careful: the metal part where the strings are threaded is not fixed by anything and is held by the strings themselves.

How to change strings on an electric guitar with Bigsby

Changing strings on an electric guitar with a Bigsby tremolo system is more difficult. Unlike fixed bridges, which have virtually no separate parts, Bigsby consists of the bridge itself, a few bolts and a spring. To install a new kit, you need to follow four consecutive steps.

Step 1. Marking the right place and removing the strings

First and foremost: remember the correct location for installing Bigsby - mark the exact positions of the system with tape and a marker. Marking is needed for safety in case of unforeseen situations during the replacement of the kit, so it must be done strictly before removing the old strings.

Consider also such an important point as the depth of the bridge: with the help of special nuts, the guitarist can adjust the height of Bigsby, raising or lowering it at will. Changing the seating depth directly affects the tuning of the instrument and how high the strings will be located above the neck of the electric guitar. A strong change in depth will cause the tool to simply stop building.

Do not try to move Bigsby to another place!

After marking the guitar, remove the old strings. To simplify your life, use a special machine for winding strings or simply eat old wire cutters.

Step 2. Exploring Bigsby

Pay attention to the Bigsby device. A special roller, on which the strings are wound, is the main mechanism of the entire tremolo system. When the guitarist uses the lever, the roller starts to rotate, which changes the sound of the strings. On the roller itself there are six pins on which the string tip rings are put on. This is how Bigsby holds the strings.

Step 3. Winding the strings

Slide the end of the string onto the pin, then attach the string to the winding peg. Watch the tension and avoid displacement of the round tip: during winding, the tip must remain stationary, not move higher. If, for any reason, the tip rises up the pin, loosen the string tension a little and put it back in place.

Due to the fact that when winding you need to monitor the position of the tip, it is better to rotate the pegs by hand, and not by a machine. Manual winding takes more time, but will allow you to keep track of the tip: when using a machine, you can get carried away with the process and wind the string too quickly without noticing the raised tip.

Thread the strings into the tuning pegs so that they protrude 2-3 cm from them - when working with Bigsby, long whiskers of the strings are not needed. Bend the string with pliers, and then gently begin to rotate the peg, winding the string. Pay special attention to the uniformity of winding: the string on the peg must be wound neatly, without crosshairs, tangles and winding in two layers.

Don't try to tune the string right away! First you need to correctly put the new kit, not paying attention to the system of the instrument.

Step 4: Tuning Your Guitar

Before tuning your guitar, check that the string spacing on the roller is the same. If the strings lie unevenly on the roller, loosen the tension of the broken strings and correct its position.

After all the strings are carefully wound, you can start tuning the instrument. Use the tuner and track the uniformity of the tension force when tuning the guitar.

How to change strings on an electric guitar with Floyd Rose

The happy owners of Floyd Rose tremolo electric guitars do not fully understand the specificity of this system. Servicing Floyd requires care, accuracy, proper care, and most importantly, a certain amount of knowledge and experience.

The main problems begin when a beginner has a question how to change the strings on an electric guitar with Floyd Rose. It would seem that what could go wrong, because replacing the kit is a trifling matter? The reality is that the Floyd's rich features come at a price with the difficulty of changing strings.

Step 1: Locking the Bridge

Tune your guitar with an old set of strings and lock the tremolo. For blocking, a small wooden block, an eraser of the appropriate size, or a thick cloth will do. Place fabric/block/eraser under the bridge as shown in the picture above.

Step 2. Loosen the firebox bolts

Using a hex wrench, loosen the firebox bolts at the nut. After that, you can remove the old set from the pegs.

Step 3: Loosen the bolts on the bridge

With the same hex wrench, loosen the bolts fixing the strings on the bridge.

Step 4 Preparing New Strings

When played with a Bigsby or a regular fixed bridge, the lugs of the strings hold them in the tailpiece. However, on the guitar with Floyd Rose they are not needed.

Trim the tips with wire cutters or metal shears. Remember about safety precautions: when biting off the tip, it can bounce and hit your face.

Step 5 Installing the Strings

Insert the end of the string into the desired Floyd Rose saddle. After making sure that the string has come to the end, tighten the seat bolt with a hex wrench until it stops.

Pull the string to the corresponding tuning pin and pass it through the notch of the firebox.

Step 6 Tuning Your Guitar

Tune your guitar with the tuner (see ). During tuning, the tuning usually floats, so after tuning each string, you need to check the sound of the previously tuned strings.

New strings need some time to stretch and stay in tune. To speed up the stretching process, you can pull the strings a little by hand - as shown in the picture above.

Step 7. Checking the position of the bridge

Look at the position of the bridge from the side. If it is parallel to the guitar, then you can tighten the toplock bolts, after making sure that the guitar is still in tune.

If the tremolo is tilted higher or lower, then you need to balance the tension between the strings and the springs. To do this, remove the plastic cover on the back of the guitar.

If Floyd Rose climbed higher (creeped up), you need to tighten the two large screws inside the case. This will add more tension to the spring and straighten the tremolo. If the floyd sank lower, then the springs need to be loosened by unscrewing the screws.

Since changing the position of the bridge affects the tension of the strings, after aligning the tailpiece, tune the guitar again. Remember that tuning changes the amount of tension on the strings, causing the Floyd Rose to move permanently. During tuning, control its position and keep an eye on the balance. In case the floyd again goes to one side, tighten or loosen the bolts. Balancing the bridge is a long and not the easiest process.

After the bridge is balanced and the strings are tuned, you can tighten the bolts on the firebox. However, we advise you not to rush into this and give the strings a few days to stretch.

Tightening the bolts at the nut can knock the instrument out of tune. After blocking the firebox, be sure to check the system and use micro-tuning.

Attaching strings to pegs

Guitar pegs are special mechanical devices that regulate the tension of the strings and are responsible for tuning the instrument. How well the guitar keeps in tune directly depends on their quality and condition.

Depending on the design of the headstock, the pegs can be arranged in one row (six pegs in a row, as on the Fender Stratocaster and Fender Telecaster) or in two rows (three on each side of the head, as on the Gibson Les Paul). The strings are installed in the pegs in descending order, that is, from the sixth string to the first. The sixth string is always attached closer to the neck itself, the first - closer to the edge of the headstock, if we are talking about Strat heads, or opposite the sixth, if we are talking about Les Paul-like heads.

The arrangement of strings in the pegs on different heads of the neck.

There are several types of guitar pegs, differing in design. Despite the differences, incorrect winding of the strings on the pegs will cause the instrument to stop holding the tune. To avoid this, you need to know how to change the strings on an electric guitar with a certain type of tuning pegs.

Standard tuners

Standard tuning pegs are a metal cylinder with a hole for threading the string. Such pegs are the most common today. It is easy to interact with it: just stretch the string to the head of the neck and insert it into the corresponding tuning pegs.

If the strings are too long, the excess can be cut off immediately, stepping back a few centimeters from the peg itself. You need to cut the strings carefully: if you overdo it, then the length of the string may not be enough for winding.

When winding the string, you need to ensure that the turns lie under the string, and not on it. At the same time, there should not be too many turns on the peg: the optimal number for the first and second strings is from three to five, for all the others - three or four.

Too many turns can adversely affect the tuning stability of an electric guitar. Too few turns will cause the strings to jump off when wound.

By winding the strings on the pegs, you can cut off their excess. However, this should not be done immediately after installing the kit, as the strings take some time to stretch. It is better to wait a couple of days, then cut off the excess. At the same time, you need to cut off the excess not at the root, but with a small margin of a couple of centimeters.

Lock pins

Locking pegs are distinguished by the presence of a special mechanism that fixes the string. Adjustment of the mechanism is carried out by a special wheel. Tightening the wheel presses the peg and holds the string in the peg hole. The presence of a locking mechanism makes a slight difference in how to change the strings on an electric guitar.

Spin the wheel so that the locking mechanism does not interfere with threading the string through the hole in the tuning pegs. Insert a new string, leaving a small tail, and then wind it evenly around the peg.

Tune your guitar and lock the mechanism by turning the wheel. If the string tension was high enough before blocking, then after a few turns of the peg, the string will be tuned to the desired note. Don't be surprised if the string doesn't make new turns after turning the peg.

After tuning the guitar and fixing the mechanism, check the tuning of the instrument for a couple of days. Even though the pegs hold the strings firmly, they are still subject to stretching. Tune the instrument until the strings are fully stretched and the instrument is stable in tune.

Vintage tuning pegs

Older and vintage electric guitars (such as the 1960-1980 Fender Stratocaster or Fender Telecaster) usually have slightly different tuning heads. The designs of such vintage holders are somewhat different, as are the features of fastening the strings in them.

To fix the string on vintage tuning pegs, you need to lower its end into the hole until it rests against the metal base of the mechanism. In this case, you need to calculate in advance how long the string should be - it will not work to cut it after winding.

After the string is inserted into the hole, bend it as shown in the image above. When interacting with the peg, be sure to hold the string, otherwise it may pop out of the hole.

When winding the string, watch the number of turns and winding accuracy. The same rules apply here as for ordinary modern tuning pegs: the number of turns is no more than 3-5, the turns are wound under the string. Vintage mechanisms are designed in such a way that after winding the string will not go anywhere from the peg.

Now that you know how to change the strings on an electric guitar with different types of pegs and bridges, changing the kit will seem like a simpler matter. Change the strings every 2-3 months (especially if you play your guitar daily) and take care of your instrument so that it will always please you with its sound.

First of all, we need to loosen the tension of the strings. On many resources you can find advice like: "You need to loosen the 1st and 6th strings first; then the other two; after that, wait a while .." and similar things. I want to say that this does not apply to acoustic guitars with a truss rod, since the task of the latter is to compensate for the tension of the strings (they tighten the neck and bridge but towards each other).

Let's get started! We loosen the 6th string by 2-2.5 turns of the peg, the next one, and so on in a circle .. until the strings begin to hang freely.

Be careful! The string can break when turning the peg, so do not twist it too sharply, take care of your face. Keep the guitar a short distance away from you at this stage.

After the tension of the strings is loosened, we proceed to dismantle them from the bridge. (I want to note that it is necessary to loosen the strings as much as possible for more comfortable dismantling).
Many people use pliers to remove the "pegs" from the bridge.
You don't need to do this.

The use of pliers often leads to a break in the peg (yes, it costs a penny: from 5 to 30 rubles apiece, but just imagine: you change the strings in the evening / at night, and your peg is broken. Wait for the store to open to go for this little thing? An unpleasant moment. .)
And there is also a very real risk of spoiling the lining, breaking off a piece from it or getting a crack.

In order to pull a peg out of the bridge with just your fingers, you need to do the following:
Press the string past the peg, while you need to feel that the string has slipped past the peg into the guitar.
The photo shows the direction in which direction you should apply force.

We do this operation with all the strings..

After that, the pegs are pulled out with your fingers without much effort.

If you have driven the peg very hard into the bridge when setting the strings, then use pliers to pull it out, only as a last resort, and very carefully: wrapping the peg with a soft cloth, and already grab it with pliers over it.

Then gently turn a little to the left, a little to the right, slightly pulling up until you can pull it out.

When we move on to setting the strings, I will explain how to properly install the strings in the bridge without having any mishaps when removing them in the future.

I will add that you may have a little stumble with 1 and 2 strings. They are without winding, and therefore there is nothing to grab onto.
Having loosened them as much as possible, you need to first remove them from the pegs, and only then “push” into the bridge. For convenience, you can wrap the base of the string at the bridge in paper, then they do not slip in your fingers.

I don’t know about you .. but I leave them in their place, they don’t have a winding - they don’t lose their sound, + even if both break, I always have 2 spare strings from the last package I bought :)

Removing the string from the peg:

After removing the pegs, you need to unwind the string from the peg, and then, slightly "shaking" it at the hole in the peg, pull it towards you (without fanaticism, be careful, especially if you have a guitar with a glossy finish and don't want a scratch on the headstock! )

I advise the owners of budget guitars and Chinese tuning pegs to inspect, check by touch the outer part of each tuning pegs, around the hole.
The pegs may have nicks, burrs, or simply raw metal edges, which can cause the string to break.
If you find any of the above - just treat the surface of the pin with fine sanding paper (with a grain size of 1500-2000 microns).

String removal is complete.

By the way, you should take the opportunity to clean "hard-to-reach" places when changing strings :)

If the wood of the guitar is flesh, then the strings are the blood that allows the instrument to flow with life. When the strings of your instrument cease to please you with their euphonious rich sound, then the actual question arises: How to change the strings on the guitar?

When buying a new instrument, it is recommended to change the strings immediately. This is due to the fact that guitar strings wear out, and it is almost impossible to predict how much the guitar has hung on the counter and which strings are on it. It also happens that the strings lose the brightness of their sound. Most often, it all starts with the fact that thick strings stop sounding juicy and lose some of the low overtones, the sound becomes blurry. Today it is not a problem, whether it is metal strings for acoustic guitar, electric guitar, or bass. But what to do with a pack of strings in your hands? How to string guitar strings?

How to change strings on an acoustic guitar

To do this, we gradually loosen the tension of the strings by rotating the pegs, so that, God forbid, we don’t injure ourselves with a string that has “shot” or burst due to changes in internal stresses. After the ends of the strings are removed from the heads of the pegs from the bridge (stand), the buttons (studs) that hold the strings on the other side of the instrument are removed. The buttons are accessed using a stringwinder, or simply any tenacious tool, such as a screwdriver or a coin.

• When the strings are off...

A guitar without strings can be serviced: clean the fingerboard, wipe the dust in hard-to-reach places, tighten and lubricate the pegs (if the pegs are open), if necessary, replace the top or bottom saddles.

• How to string guitar strings?

After that, we proceed to install new strings. Everything is not so simple here.
The strings are set in a certain order to avoid possible distortion of the guitar neck. First, the third string is set, followed by the fourth, and so on: the second, fifth, first, and the sixth, thickest string completes the process of setting the strings.

Each string is taken and attached to the bridge stud in such a way that the string lies in the groove, and rests against the end with a ball. Next, the pin, together with the guitar string, is inserted into the corresponding hole in the acoustic guitar stand and pressed.

A simpler option - first the string is lowered into the hole, which is then closed with a button (hairpin). When fixing the pin, it is necessary to press on it with sufficient force so that it is not pulled back by the tension of the string, on the other hand, do not overdo it, because overdoing it can damage the instrument.

Now the free end of the string is threaded into the hole of the corresponding peg from the inside (between the rows of pegs). At the same time, it is necessary to leave a small margin of length in order to subsequently wind the string around the peg (enough to last for 2-4 turns in the future). The free edge of the string (if necessary, you can pre-form it a little if it gets in the way) is bent and held with your finger. We carefully rotate the peg, the turns are placed below the free edge of the string one after another without overlapping. As a result, the string should no longer hang freely on the fretboard. Here it is important to ensure that the string does not run into the groove for the adjacent string on the nut.

Some guitarists fix the strings on the tuning pegs with knots before winding them. This method is not bad, but it greatly complicates the process of removing the strings at the next change. At the same time, if the strings are carefully wound in the manner described above, making loops looks like a waste of time and can serve as a means of complacency rather than having any real advantages.

However, we will show you how to tie a simple knot. Perhaps at first it will be more reliable to use just such an option given in the diagram below.

How to change strings on a classical guitar

The replacement is a bit more difficult due to the different way the string is attached to the guitar's bridge. However, there are a number of ways to achieve successful string setting on a classical guitar as well.

Some are simply cut with ordinary scissors, and then the remnants of the strings and pegs and nut are removed. It is safer to simply rotate the pegs to gradually release all the strings in the headstock and then draw out the free strings, and then further remove them from the classical guitar bridge. It is advisable not to weaken the strings in turn, but to try to gradually weaken all the strings in parallel, so that not a single string bursts due to voltage drops.

• When the classical guitar is already without strings

Now that your guitar is left without strings, you can service it, clean it, get into those places that were difficult for you to reach due to the presence of strings.

• Installing new strings on a classical guitar

Never try to put metal strings on a classical guitar!!! This will certainly lead to deformation of the guitar neck and will render the guitar unusable.

Nylon strings for classical guitar do not have balls at the end and are more like just pieces of fishing line. Installation of such strings also begins with fixation in the bridge area. At the same time, the fastening of the fourth, fifth and sixth strings differs from the fastening of thinner (first, second and third) strings. As a result, the metal wound nylon strings are installed as follows.

Each string is pulled through the saddle and comes out for a length of about 10 centimeters. Next, a simple loop is made through which the tip of the string is passed. In this case, you should keep the string pressed against the soundboard, otherwise the string will stick out as a result, become free and may eventually untie. As a result, we have a simple knot that should be tightened. To do this, we strongly pull the edges of the string in different directions. The more we pull, the less likely it is that the knot will fail one day. However, do not over-tighten the strings to avoid string breaks and undue pressure on the saddle.

Unwound strings (1st, 2nd, and 3rd) require a slightly more complex fixation. The beginning of the operation is the same as described above: we stretch the string through the bridge to a length of about 10 centimeters. But then the method has differences: a loop is made through which the tip of the string passes three times. This allows you to securely fasten the string and prevent slipping in the future. The knot, accordingly, is tightened as much as possible.

As a result, we get the following picture, which indicates that the strings are securely fastened to the bridge. To verify again, simply pull each string towards the neck. After that, it will be possible to restore order and cut off the protruding ends. Just do not cut the tails to the root, because then there is a risk that the string will untie.

When all the strings are fixed on the saddle of a classical guitar, you should fix the free ends of the strings in the peg mechanism located in the headstock area. The first string (thinnest) and sixth (thickest) are attached to the lower pegs (closest to the nut and strings), the central strings (third and fourth) to the highest pegs (closest to the tip of the guitar neck).

Next, we thread the end of each string through the hole of the peg for a length of about 10 centimeters (this is a reserve in case the string is damaged at the place of fixation), wrap it around the sleeve and thread it through the hole again (to fix the string during winding). We also recommend that you first rotate the peg mechanism so that the holes of all the pegs are visible on the front. In this case, you will be better able to see what you are doing, and therefore it will be easier to handle.

After that, we rotate the knobs of the pegs until a slight string tension is reached, i.e. when it no longer pops out by itself from the grooves of the nut. We carry out this operation with each string and only after that we carefully tune the instrument. Once replaced, nylon strings on a classical guitar will be out of tune constantly for several days. Knots take time to fully tighten, and strings have a certain elasticity and should just sit down. Thus, at first, you will have to tune the strings quite often, especially if you have classes and especially active performances in your plans.

I have an electric guitar or a bass guitar and it's still not clear to me how to change the strings

If you have an electric guitar or a bass guitar, then do not worry, the principle of changing strings in this case is similar to that used in an acoustic guitar. Yes, the design of the tools is slightly different, but the approach remains the same.

You are probably wondering why there is not a word about tuning guitars in this article? We will certainly address this issue in our next articles.

If, after reading this material, you still could not figure out how to change the strings on a guitar, then we are looking forward to seeing you in our store, where a qualified sales consultant will help you change the strings on your instrument, as well as share many other useful tips.

Is it time to change the strings on your electric guitar? Well, let's figure out when they need to be changed, how to do it, what you need to understand before starting the replacement, how to rebuild the height, and which ones to choose. What tool will you need? What string fixing systems are there and what is the peculiarity of replacing on different “machines”? Let's talk about everything in order.

Signs of "tired" strings

First of all, you should understand that the strings are a consumable item that needs to be changed every 2-3 months with active play, and changed every six months if you use the guitar “according to your mood”. This is required, since they are “salted” or clogged with dirt, the winding coating is erased, in some cases they oxidize and rust. Accordingly, the sound at the same time also becomes less pleasant, deaf, in some cases the guitar ceases to keep the system, and begins to rattle.

Types of string holders

Before proceeding with the replacement, let's clarify which version of the bridge (string holder, typewriter) is installed on your electric guitar.

consider4 typesmounts:

• Through the body (Tight-End, Gibraltar Standard bridge, Fixed bridge);
• tremolo machine (vintage tremolo system, FAT-10 tremolo bridge);
• two-sided machine (Floyd Rose, Edge-Zero, Edge tremolo bridge);
• fixation on the deck (Stop Bar, Stop tail).

How much you correctly replace the strings on your electric guitar will depend on their ability to keep the system, and, probably, their lifespan.

A tool that will be useful

• Nippers to cut the strings for easier removal, and cut off excess "tails";
• a set of hexagons for detuning the neck and string height;
• a metal ruler graduated from the beginning to adjust the height of the strings if they rattle or are set too high;
• string winder. The thing is certainly not the main thing, but it will help you save time.

Be sure to loosen the strings before cutting! It is important! as the string may fly out and harm you. Follow safety measures, even though it seems like a trifling matter!

Withdrawal

In all types of tailpieces, we simply cut the strings at the nut (behind the first fret of the fretboard) holding it with our hand at the third fret so that they do not fly out and cause injury to you.

After that, we pull them out through special holes in the protective plastic (if you have a tremolo machine) or from the back of the case.

Floyd Rose system owners will need a hex wrench to loosen the clamps on the bridge. In some Zero Pro systems (analogous to Floyd Rose from Ibanez, such machines are often found on Cort guitars), the strings are clamped together with clamps (string tips that allow you to hold the string in the bridge, in which case you will have to unscrew the bolt holding the clip to the end). How to remove them read below.

Used strings are not applicable for reinstallation, but they can be useful in needlework or in everyday life.

Electric guitar preparation

After you have removed the strings, thread the bolt connections on the neck and body. Twist them securely, but without fanaticism. Also, carefully watch what to twist and what not. For example, you do not need to turn the height adjusters of the pickups, although they look like an ordinary bolt. You are also not recommended to turn the tremolo adjustment bolts of the machine.

The photo below shows that you can twist without harm

Lining impregnation

The next step is to soak the fretboard with lemon oil. This is required in order for the lining to serve you longer, to prevent drying out and cracking of the lining. If the neck is lacquered, you do not need to do this. Impregnation also favorably affects the sound of the guitar. Napkins soaked in lemon oil can be found in almost every musical instrument store. We recommend taking Ernie Ball napkins. There are 6 of them in one box. The cost is approximately 150 rubles or 2 USD.

After thoroughly saturating each fret of the neck, set the guitar aside for 40 minutes to allow the oil to soak in. What is not absorbed, wipe with a dry, clean cloth.

Lubrication of mechanisms and sills

Take some oil, ideally for sewing machines, but ordinary motor oil will also work. Drop by small drop, with a syringe, drip onto the saddles and onto the nut of the guitar neck. This will prevent the appearance of burrs and extend the life of the tool fittings. This is especially true for budget guitars, where all components are made of cheap materials. But do not fill with oil, this is not necessary.

Installation start

We have prepared the instrument and it's time to put the strings on your favorite electric guitar. Since the tailpieces are different, we will describe how to change them for each type separately.

Important! We wrap the strings on the pegs in the lock! In this case, they keep the system much better, not yielding to local pegs.

We tie a lock on the strings

We did not begin to paint each step, since you can easily understand how to do it from the photo and video below. But, if you still have questions, then write in the comments, we will definitely help you.

Through the body, tremolo or stop bar

On all these tailpieces, it is worth changing them in the reverse order from removal.

1. Pass through the holes;
2. Tension the first and sixth string (to prevent deformation of the neck);
3. We stretch the rest according to the scheme 2-3-5-4 (So it will be easier for you, and the neck is safer);
4. We bite off the extra length (besides the fact that it is not aesthetically beautiful, dangling strings can be dangerous for your health or the health of your loved ones.);
5. Setting up the guitar.

Movement Floyd Rose, Edge Zero, Edge Pro and other similar

Owners of an electric guitar with such a machine can be envied and sympathized at the same time. With the possibilities that a double-sided typewriter gives, there are a lot of problems how to change the strings. But that's okay! We take hexagons, wire cutters and let the replacement begin!

1. To begin with, unscrew the clamps from the nut of the neck with a hexagon, if any;
2. Next, loosen the strings and bite off, although to change them, you can simply unscrew them from the bridge;
3. Loosen the clamps on the bridge and remove the strings;
4. We bite off the clamps on the new strings, thread them into the bridge and fix the hexagon;
5. We stretch in the order 1-6-2-3-4-5, tie with locks;
6. Tune the strings on the electric guitar;
7. With the lever of the machine we make several braces, after which we adjust the electric guitar again;
8. We set the micro-tuning on the bridge to the center;
9. Tune the guitar again;
10. Lochim (twist) the threshold.

Getting the perfect sound

If you use strings of the same gauge as before, no further tuning is required. But if the strings rattle or are too high, it is worth trimming the neck or tightening the springs. It also needs height adjustment.

Neck adjustment

The neck is adjustable with an anchor, access to which may vary depending on the model and manufacturer. It is mainly located in the "head" of the neck and is often hidden by a decorative cover.

The neck is adjusted by tightening or loosening the anchor clockwise or counterclockwise.

The neck is considered straight if, with the string clamped at the first and 17-19 frets (depending on the guitar), the strings lie flat and do not rattle. There is no gap at the 12th fret, but if you pull it, it will sound a little. Or you can place a metal ruler on edge and check that all the frets are evenly pressed against the edge of the ruler.

Bridge Height Adjustment

Depending on the type of bridge, the height setting will vary. Somewhere it is enough to tighten the support screws, and somewhere it is enough to raise or lower the saddles of the bridge. All this is done for a comfortable game and for adjusting the height if they rattle.

The height must not exceed 2 mm at the 12th fret (measured from the top of the fret)

Adjusting the scale

What is a mensur? This is the length of the string from nut to nut, and its center is at the 12th fret. If the center is displaced, then the accuracy of the system is lost, and if a pure “mi” should sound on the 12th fret of the first string, then with a downscale scale there may be a note “re” or “mi bimol”. Accordingly, the system floats on all other frets.

Scale adjustment is carried out by bridge saddles, which are tightened or loosened with a screwdriver or hex.

For fine tuning, you will need an electronic chromatic tuner, which will be used to adjust the scale.

1. We connect the tuner;
2. We rebuild in the standard system;
3. Clamp on the 12th fret and pull it;
4. If the tuner arrow deviates from the norm, then tighten the bolt. We look at the arrow, the indicator has improved - we turn in the same direction, it has worsened - in the opposite direction;
5. Repeat until you get the most accurate sound.

How to rebuild the scale, see the video below

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=CO8DWiHuMN8

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlXjqmT5g8s

We hope that now changing the strings will be easier for you. We tried to put the most important ones in one record, now it will be much easier for you to change the strings on your instrument, tune it, and enjoy the wonderful sound

Complete tuning of the guitar (Warning! There is profanity! 18+)