Resonator strings. Advice please.

DavidR · December 2022

I have a Regal RC51 Tricone (National style 1 copy) and its heavy but nice but would like to ask others what strings they use/like on similar round-necked resonators. Not sure I've got the best out of it yet. I play it fingerstyle with fingerpicks. Standard tuning. Sometimes DropD or DADGAD. I've had it a few years.

On all my other acoustics I use Monels, but Monels sound dull on this instrument, at least 12 gauge do, and I'm not keen on going much heavier than that. Maybe up to 13. Heavier than that I find too hard usually.

The instruments been set up by a luthier so that's all good. So far, I have tried John Pearse 16's Nickel Wound G tuning (just too heavy and dull), Elixir PB 13/56 (Nice but dulled very quickly) Martin Metro Monel 13's MTR13 (Too simple a sound, not as nice as PB), Earthwood 12/54 Bronze (dulled very quickly), Martin SP Lifespan 80/20 Bronze MA150T (best so far).

I've discovered 'real' National Type1's ship with John Pearse PB 13's. Just about to try them.

Suppose what I'm looking for is strings 13 or lighter, brighter than Monels and which last longer than 2 weeks with daily playing.

Thanks.

vasselmeyer · December 2022

I've always used Newtone which are actually made in Derbyshire. They're endorsed by Michael Messer who knows a thing or two about resonators.

https://newtonestrings.com/

RickLucas · December 2022

I find 80/20s generally brighter than phosphor bronze.

Tannin · December 2022

It has been many years since I owned a resonator - another Regal, back around the time when Regal first started up. 1990 maybe. Long time anyway. I probably never changed the strings on that one! Some bastard stole it after I'd had it for a year or two and I never replaced it. Played one (a single cone) in Hobart a couple of years ago, didn't like it much. Played a brass tricone (different brand but probably same factory) which I liked much better. But I had forgotten how BLOODY LOUD resonators are! And heavier than a Les Paul. I went cold on the idea.

Strings for you? Given what you like and don't like, I would try the following: Rotosound Nexus, GHS Americana. JP make great strings so those are worth a try too.

bertie · December 2022

+1 for the Michael Messer strings

more · December 2022

Have a look at the link below

Choivert · December 2022

Also use Newtone MM strings. I find the lighter (13-56) of the sets is much better if you ever go to E-standard. Bear in mind Newtone strings have a round core so are slightly less tension than an equivalent hex core set. And, you must bring the string up to pitch (or close to) before cutting them as otherwise they unravel themselves. It's great to support a local business too (IMHO).

DavidR · December 2022

Newtone MM 13's look to be worth a go.

Currently out of stock on company website although available within 14 days. Where do you source yours from @Choivert ;; and @vasselmeyer ;;

DavidR · December 2022

Thanks for help on thread everyone.

Choivert · December 2022

I've found they don't usually take 14 days to produce. They are hand wound onto the core and I think it's a small company but have found ordering stuff that is out of stock is generally quite quick.

vasselmeyer · December 2022

I think my last few sets were from Strings Direct.

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Resonator strings. Advice please.

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