FAQ: Guitar String Types And Gauges

Q: What guitar strings does Taylor install on its guitars? Does the gauge matter, or should I use whatever feels best to me?

A: Strings are extremely important – Since June 1, 1999, we’ve been installing Elixir Strings on all steel-string Taylor models, and currently we use Elixir’s ultra-thin NANOWEB design. In 2014, we switched from 80/20 Bronze to Phosphor Bronze on most steel-string acoustic models. While it’s perfectly OK to experiment with different types/brands of strings (excluding the GS Mini Bass), to maintain factory performance and specifications we recommend staying with the correct string gauges as follows.

Acoustic Guitar Strings

Grand Auditorium, Grand Concert, Academy Series, Big Baby Taylor, Baby Taylor

Elixir Light Gauge Phosphor Bronze NANOWEB (.012-.053)

Grand Symphony, Grand Orchestra, Dreadnought, GS Mini

Elixir Medium Gauge Phosphor Bronze NANOWEB (.013-.056)

Acoustic 12-String Models

Elixir Phosphor Bronze NANOWEB Light Gauge (.010 -.047)

GS Mini Bass – ONLY USE THESE STRINGS

D’Addario (EXP PBB190GS) GS Mini Acoustic Bass Custom Light (.037-.090)

Nylon-String Models

D’Addario (EJ46FF) Pro-Arté Carbon, Dynacore Basses, Hard Tension

Electric Guitar Strings

T5 and T5z

Elixir Electric Medium Gauge NANOWEB (.011-.049)

T3

Elixir Electric Light Gauge NANOWEB (.010-.046)

Read more about the suggested strings for our guitars here
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