Banjo Strings

[Ron Stanfield]

While I'm in a bungling mode, I have a question about banjo strings.
I have read that gut strings, tho more appropriate, aren't as loud as nylong and don't last as long .
I use nylon fishing line: #20 for 1st & 5th, #30 for 2nd, #50 for 3rd, and nylon "G" string for 4th.

[John Masciale]

We've had lots of discussions about strings and bridges. You can buy a set of Nylgut Minstrel strings from Elderly Instruments (among outer places) that will give you the correct sound. They play fairly well, and last forever.

I have had good luck with varnished gut strings. They last fairly well, and I far prefer playing them to nylon or nylgut. If you find the forum discussion Bridges and Strings here you will see some discussion on this.

[Ron Stanfield]

Thanks, John, I asppreciate the info on strings. Will go to Elderly Instruments. Got my other banjo parts from there.

John Masciale said:

We've had lots of discussions about strings and bridges. You can buy a set of Nylgut Minstrel strings from Elderly Instruments (among outer places) that will give you the correct sound. They play fairly well, and last forever.

I have had good luck with varnished gut strings. They last fairly well, and I far prefer playing them to nylon or nylgut. If you find the forum discussion Bridges and Strings here you will see some discussion on this.