Strings

We set up new and used instruments with various string gauges according to Stick players' needs, now including heavy, light and medium gauges. We also make up a great variety of packaged string sets in these three gauges, which accommodate all the recommended Stick tunings (melody fourths and reversed bass fifths on ten or twelve strings) as well as any custom tuning.

The light gauges have for years been our standard string set, starting in 1974. We added heavy gauges to our instruments in 1995, later introducing medium gauge sets in 1998.

We pay close attention to string sound and "feel" on all Stick setups and all packaged string sets. The sound is as uniform as possible in both timbre and volume. The "feel" involves both light tapping action and uniform bending, a given amount of lateral movement raising the pitch equally on any string.

Our heavy gauge strings on a properly set up Stick are every bit as easy to tap on as light gauges, but require a bit more finger muscle for side movement (bending and vibratos). The sound has more of a "ring" to it, the harmonics closer to the fundamental tone ringing through (the octave and fifth above the octave). These are very musical timbres and record very well in the studio.

Our light gauge strings allow a greater range of expression and are very responsive to the subtler finger effects. They bend further, typically a whole step to a minor third, and magnify all the various vibrato techniques that are possible on The Stick. The sound is more "acoustical" by most players' appraisal, with pronounced harmonics in the very high frequencies along with the fundamental.

We've also introduced medium gauge sets for those who want some of the advantages of both the above. String sets in all three gauges are put together according to the various standard or custom tunings ordered, with increasing disparity of string diameters between the gauges as the pitch gets lower.

Feel free to call or email us for recommendations on string gauges and tunings that will best suit your musical environment.

Ordering
Send all email orders to sales@stick.com. If you have questions please call us, write us a letter, or email us at info@stick.com. Please check out our ordering information before sending your order so we can process your order as quickly as possible.