The Variax guitar is a game-changer for guitarists, especially those who love to experiment with different tunings. For acoustic players venturing into diverse sonic landscapes, the Variax JTV-59 offers an incredible solution, eliminating the need to haul multiple guitars to gigs. The ability to switch effortlessly between standard tuning, drop tunings, open tunings, and even emulate a 12-string or baritone guitar is truly revolutionary. Many players, including myself, have found immense value in the Variax for its sheer versatility and convenience.
One of the standout features of the Variax is its acoustic modeling. It opens up a world of sonic possibilities, allowing you to conjure the tones of various acoustic guitars with the flip of a switch. However, to truly maximize the acoustic potential of your Variax, especially if you’re primarily an acoustic player, there’s a simple yet highly effective tweak you can make: changing your strings.
The secret to achieving the Best Guitar Strings setup for acoustic Variax tones lies in understanding how these guitars produce their sound. Unlike electric guitars that rely on magnetic pickups to capture string vibrations, the Variax utilizes piezo pickups for its acoustic models. These piezo pickups respond best to the vibrations of acoustic guitar strings.
Therefore, if you’re seeking the richest, most authentic acoustic sound from your Variax, consider installing acoustic guitar strings. I personally use Elixir bronze-wound custom light nanos on my Variax JTV-59. The difference after switching from standard electric guitar strings was remarkable. While it’s true that even with acoustic strings, a Variax might not perfectly replicate the nuanced sound of a high-end Martin HD-28 or D-45, the improvement in acoustic tone is undeniable. And crucially, you retain the Variax’s unparalleled ability to switch tunings and guitar models instantly – a feat impossible with traditional acoustic guitars.
It’s important to note that using acoustic strings will likely compromise the electric guitar tones on your Variax, as bronze-wound strings are not designed to interact optimally with magnetic pickups. However, for acoustic players who primarily use the Variax for its acoustic capabilities and tuning versatility, this trade-off is well worth it. If electric guitar tones are not your primary concern on your Variax, embracing acoustic guitar strings is a simple yet profound upgrade.
In conclusion, for Variax players focused on acoustic sounds, experimenting with acoustic guitar strings is highly recommended. It’s a straightforward change that can unlock a significantly improved acoustic tone, allowing you to fully appreciate the versatility of your Variax while enjoying a richer, more authentic acoustic experience. If you’re chasing the best guitar strings to enhance your Variax’s acoustic performance, acoustic strings are definitely the answer.
