MSA Classic String Gauges

[Robert Underkoffler]

How many of you guys stick to the owner's manual for string gauges?

That being:
.013
.017
.010
.013
.017
.024
.026
.030
.036
.038

If not; how much of a difference has it made in playing? I know some players change up the 5th and 6th strings for a meatier sound, but I'm just curious for the next pair I end up buying.

[Bobby D. Jones]

A fairly common set of strings is.
.013
.015
.011
.014
.017
.020p or .022w
.026w
.030w
.036w
.038w
The strings in your list 5&6, Are slightly larger.
The 6th string can be a problem. If you change from a plain to wound, Or wound to plain, Usually takes changing the pull on the 6th string bell crank.
That is why many steel players buy several sets of the same strings. So no change is needed, Under the guitar at string change time.
String size seems personal, By what the players ears hear. Happy Steelin.

[Lee Baucum]

Robert - I think I recall those being the gauges that were in the E9 sets marketed by Ernie Ball back in the 1970s.

~Lee

[Alfred Andersson]

Robert - I think I recall those being the gauges that were in the E9 sets marketed by Ernie Ball back in the 1970s.

~Lee

Interesting! I've got the same gauge recommended in manual for the Sidekick.
How about installing NYXL 1138PS ?

[Robert Underkoffler]

It's in the booklet for my 72 semi-classic. The 5th is not wound on my current strings too. Those NYXL 1138PS seem to be the best.