Squeaky Strings

[7-stinger]

I just bought an Epiphone Acoustic from an antique store and am digging the sound. The only thing is that the strings are very squeaky when i slide into different chords or arpeggios, which of course ruins any sentimental finger-picking.

Does anyone have a good suggestion for some particular strings that don't squeak, creak, or scratch when you slide on them? I've been playing with silk and steel strings Ã_ la Django on my other one and I notice they don't squeak, but it's a very different sound than I'd like for a folksy acoustic.

Thanks,
Sam

[catfish393]

no ideas on what type (aside from nylon)

but try to do a little mute when you slide, it takes practice, but you'll get used to it

[RocketStar]

Sounds like you just have a set of old strings on there. I usually use Martin coated strings on the acoustic, and there isn't any uncontrollable squeak.

[messy bedroom]

just get some finger ease fret board and string lubricant usually solves al my problems.

[crimsonsteel]

d'addario has thier chromes strings, completely flat wound. not sure if you want nickel strings on an acoustic though, you could always buy a bigger gauge though?

[evenflow502]

when they recorded the acoustic side of In Your Honor, Dave Grohl had a lot of string squeaks he wanted to get rid of like you, but the producer had him leave them in, and, to me, it really adds to the intimacy of that whole disc

[MassacredHatred]

It's really more of a technique thing. You eventually learn to lift your fingers off of the strings when you move to another position.

[3rdDay]

Originally Posted by evenflow502

when they recorded the acoustic side of In Your Honor, Dave Grohl had a lot of string squeaks he wanted to get rid of like you, but the producer had him leave them in, and, to me, it really adds to the intimacy of that whole disc

+1. I think hearing string squeaks makes it sound more authentic and real.

[tori]

Flatwounds would be an option, but they sound different. I guess the best advice would be to practice, the squeaking will mostly disappear over time...

[NoFroBro]

The modern polymer coated strings reduce this substatially.

Elixiers are D'Addario strings coated by another company (Or so I am informed by the company rep).
D'Addario EXP's are the ones they do in house.
Galli AGP are a much cheaper but (IMO) better coated string (They coat before winding).

They all come in a standard roundwound version and can also protect your strings from corrosion.

[DasHue]

+1 for the coated options. They'll retain some of your bronze-string-tone, but definately have less sqeekage. I can't stand them m'self, as you do lose a bit of that high-end-sparkle, but they will help with this paricular issue quite a bit.

[scantron]

I know this is an old thread, but try soaking your fingertips in water before you play- it'll soften your fingers and get rid of the squeak. Works great for recording.

[Michael Evrard]

I kind of like the squeak sound, however, I have noticed that Elixir strings lessen that sound. I did not get them for that reason though. I like that they last longer. Soaking your fingers...mmmm good idea too.