Can You Put Acoustic Strings On An Electric Guitar?

Acoustic guitar strings on an electric guitar? At guitarplayers.net, we know guitar players often wonder about string compatibility. While it’s possible, the sound and performance won’t be optimal due to differences in magnetic properties. Using the right strings will bring out the tone you are looking for, enhance playability, and prevent potential damage to your instrument. Let’s explore why!

1. The Quick Answer: Can You Use Acoustic Strings on Electric Guitar?

No, you generally shouldn’t use acoustic guitar strings on an electric guitar. While it technically can be done, the tonal results and overall performance will likely be unsatisfactory. Electric guitar pickups are designed to interact with the magnetic properties of specific metal types commonly found in electric guitar strings, so acoustic strings will sound weak. Using electric guitar strings will ensure compatibility and optimal sound.

1.1 Why Acoustic Strings Aren’t Ideal for Electric Guitars

Acoustic guitar strings are typically made of bronze or phosphor bronze windings around a steel core. Electric guitar strings, on the other hand, commonly use nickel-plated steel or pure nickel windings. This difference in materials is crucial because electric guitar pickups rely on electromagnetic induction to produce sound.

Magnetic Properties: Electric guitar pickups work by sensing the vibrations of magnetic strings. The magnetic field generated by the pickups interacts with the metal in the strings, creating an electrical signal that is then amplified. Bronze and phosphor bronze have weak magnetic properties compared to nickel or steel, resulting in a significantly weaker signal.
Output Volume: The weaker magnetic interaction means the output volume will be much lower. You’ll likely have to crank up the gain on your amplifier to hear anything, which can introduce unwanted noise and distortion.
Tonal Imbalance: The plain steel strings (G, B, and high E) of an acoustic set will produce a somewhat normal output, but the wound strings will be significantly quieter. This leads to a very unbalanced sound across the strings.
String Gauge and Tension: Acoustic strings often have different gauge ranges compared to electric strings. Putting heavier gauge acoustic strings on an electric guitar can increase the tension on the neck, potentially causing bowing or other damage over time.

1.2 What Happens When You Put Acoustic Strings on an Electric Guitar?

Okay, so you’re curious and want to try it anyway. Here’s what you can expect:

Reduced Output: The most noticeable difference will be a significant drop in volume. The guitar will sound much quieter compared to when it’s strung with electric strings.
Thin and Weak Tone: The tone will lack the characteristic bite and sustain of an electric guitar. It will sound thin, weak, and generally uninspiring.
Uneven String Response: As mentioned earlier, the plain steel strings will be louder than the wound strings, creating an unbalanced sound.
Possible Intonation Issues: The different string tensions can affect the guitar’s intonation, making it difficult to play in tune.

1.3 A Real-World Experiment: Stringjoy’s Findings

Stringjoy, a well-known string manufacturer, actually conducted an experiment to test this very scenario. They put a set of phosphor bronze acoustic strings on an Epiphone 339 (a semi-hollow electric guitar) and compared the sound to a control group using standard electric guitar strings (9.5-44 gauge).

Clean Tone: The acoustic strings produced a signal through the amp, but the output on the wound strings was significantly lower than the nickel strings. The plain steel strings were louder, resulting in an overall unbalanced sound.
Acoustic Sound: Interestingly, the acoustic sound of the electric guitar with acoustic strings was quite pleasant. This might be a consideration if you primarily play a hollow-body electric guitar unplugged.

1.4 What About Hollow-Body or Semi-Hollow Electric Guitars?

Hollow-body and semi-hollow electric guitars are designed to produce acoustic tones as well as amplified sounds. While using acoustic strings might seem tempting, it’s still not generally recommended.

Compromised Electric Tone: You’ll still experience the same issues with weak output and unbalanced tone when plugged in.
Better Alternatives: If you want a more acoustic-like tone from your hollow-body, consider using flatwound electric guitar strings. These strings have a smoother surface and produce a warmer, mellower sound that can approximate acoustic tones.

2. Understanding Electric Guitar Pickups and String Magnetism

To truly understand why acoustic strings don’t work well on electric guitars, it’s essential to grasp the basics of how electric guitar pickups function.

2.1 How Electric Guitar Pickups Work

Electric guitar pickups are transducers that convert the mechanical energy of vibrating strings into an electrical signal. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

Magnets: Pickups contain magnets (typically alnico or ceramic) that create a magnetic field around the strings.
Coil of Wire: A coil of fine wire is wrapped around the magnets.
String Vibration: When a steel or nickel string vibrates within the magnetic field, it disrupts the field.
Electromagnetic Induction: This disruption induces a small electrical current in the coil of wire.
Signal Output: The electrical current is then sent to the amplifier, where it’s amplified and converted into sound.

2.2 The Role of String Material

The type of metal used in the strings is crucial because it determines how strongly the strings interact with the magnetic field.

Magnetic Materials: Steel and nickel are ferromagnetic materials, meaning they are strongly attracted to magnets and can easily be magnetized. They create a significant disturbance in the magnetic field, resulting in a strong electrical signal.
Non-Magnetic Materials: Bronze and phosphor bronze are not ferromagnetic. They have very weak magnetic properties and produce a minimal disturbance in the magnetic field.

2.3 The Importance of Magnetic Permeability

Magnetic permeability is a measure of how easily a material can be magnetized. Materials with high permeability (like steel and nickel) are ideal for electric guitar strings because they enhance the interaction with the pickups.

Signal Strength: Higher permeability leads to a stronger signal output from the pickups.
Tonal Characteristics: The type of metal also affects the tonal characteristics of the guitar. Nickel strings tend to produce a warmer, rounder tone, while steel strings offer a brighter, more aggressive sound.

3. Acoustic vs. Electric Guitar Strings: A Detailed Comparison

Let’s delve deeper into the specific differences between acoustic and electric guitar strings.

3.1 Material Composition

Acoustic Strings:
- Core: Typically made of steel.
- Winding: Usually bronze (80/20 bronze) or phosphor bronze.
Electric Strings:
- Core: Typically made of steel.
- Winding: Usually nickel-plated steel or pure nickel.

3.2 String Gauge

String gauge refers to the thickness of the strings, usually measured in thousandths of an inch.

Acoustic Strings: Typically heavier gauges than electric strings. Common acoustic gauges include:
- Extra Light: .010 – .047
- Light: .012 – .053
- Medium: .013 – .056
Electric Strings: Typically lighter gauges than acoustic strings. Common electric gauges include:
- Extra Light: .008 – .038
- Light: .009 – .042
- Regular: .010 – .046

3.3 String Tension

String tension is the amount of force required to bring a string up to pitch.

Acoustic Strings: Higher tension due to heavier gauges. This is necessary to drive the soundboard of an acoustic guitar.
Electric Strings: Lower tension due to lighter gauges. This makes them easier to bend and play fast solos.

3.4 Tonal Characteristics

Acoustic Strings:
- Bronze: Bright, crisp, and articulate.
- Phosphor Bronze: Warmer, richer, and more mellow than bronze.
Electric Strings:
- Nickel-Plated Steel: Balanced tone with good sustain and clarity.
- Pure Nickel: Warmer, smoother, and more vintage-sounding.

3.5 Winding Type

The way the strings are wound also affects their tone and feel.

Roundwound: The most common type of string winding. They have a textured surface that provides good grip but can also produce string noise.
Flatwound: These strings have a smooth, flat surface. They produce a warmer, mellower tone and are often used in jazz and blues.
Halfwound (or Groundwound): A compromise between roundwound and flatwound. They have a slightly smoother surface than roundwounds but retain some of their brightness.

4. Potential Damage to Your Electric Guitar

Using acoustic strings on an electric guitar isn’t just about tone; it can also potentially damage your instrument.

4.1 Neck Stress

Acoustic strings, especially heavier gauges, exert more tension on the guitar neck.

Bowing: Over time, this increased tension can cause the neck to bow forward.
Truss Rod Adjustment: You might need to adjust the truss rod to compensate for the increased tension, but excessive adjustments can weaken the neck.
Neck Cracks: In extreme cases, the added stress can lead to cracks in the neck.

4.2 Bridge Issues

The bridge of an electric guitar is designed to handle a specific range of string tension.

Bridge Lifting: Excessive tension can cause the bridge to lift off the body of the guitar.
Saddle Problems: The saddles (the small pieces that the strings rest on) can be damaged or displaced.

4.3 Pickup Damage (Less Likely)

While less common, using acoustic strings could potentially cause minor damage to the pickups over time.

Increased Wear: The slightly different vibration patterns of acoustic strings might cause increased wear on the pickup covers.
Magnetic Field Disruption: It’s unlikely, but a significantly strong or unbalanced magnetic pull could theoretically affect the pickup’s performance.

5. Addressing Common Misconceptions

Let’s clear up some common misconceptions about using acoustic strings on electric guitars.

5.1 “I Want a Warmer Tone, So Acoustic Strings Will Work Better.”

While it’s true that acoustic strings can produce a warmer tone than some electric strings, they’re not the right way to achieve this on an electric guitar.

Better Alternatives: Use pure nickel electric guitar strings, flatwound strings, or adjust your amplifier settings to achieve a warmer tone.
EQ Adjustments: Experiment with your amplifier’s EQ settings or use an EQ pedal to shape the tone to your liking.

5.2 “I’m Just a Beginner, So It Doesn’t Matter What Strings I Use.”

It’s actually more important for beginners to use the correct type of strings.

Playability: Electric guitar strings are easier to press down and bend, which is crucial for developing proper technique.
Sound Reinforcement: The correct tone will help you develop a good ear and stay motivated.

5.3 “I Can’t Afford Two Sets of Strings, So I’ll Just Use Acoustic Strings on Both Guitars.”

While budget constraints are understandable, using the wrong strings can lead to frustration and potential damage.

Prioritize: If you can only afford one set, prioritize the guitar you play most often.
Affordable Options: Look for affordable electric guitar string brands that offer decent quality without breaking the bank.

6. Choosing the Right Strings for Your Electric Guitar

Now that you know why acoustic strings aren’t a good fit, let’s explore how to choose the best electric guitar strings for your needs.

6.1 String Gauge

Lighter Gauges (.008 – .010): Easier to bend, faster action, good for beginners and players who prefer a lighter touch. Can break more easily.
Medium Gauges (.010 – .011): A good compromise between playability and tone. Versatile for various musical styles.
Heavier Gauges (.011 – .013): Fuller tone, more sustain, better for drop tunings. Requires more finger strength.

6.2 String Material

Nickel-Plated Steel: The most common type. Offers a balanced tone with good clarity and sustain. Suitable for most musical styles.
Pure Nickel: Warmer, smoother, and more vintage-sounding. Popular for blues, jazz, and classic rock.
Stainless Steel: Bright, crisp, and corrosion-resistant. Good for players who sweat a lot or want a brighter tone.
Cobalt: Enhanced magnetic properties for increased output and a modern tone.

6.3 Winding Type

Roundwound: The standard winding type. Offers a textured surface for good grip and a bright, clear tone.
Flatwound: Smooth surface for a warm, mellow tone. Reduces string noise. Ideal for jazz and blues.
Halfwound (or Groundwound): A compromise between roundwound and flatwound. Offers a smoother feel than roundwounds with a slightly warmer tone.

6.4 Coated vs. Uncoated Strings

Coated Strings: Have a thin polymer coating that extends their lifespan and reduces finger noise. Can sound slightly less bright than uncoated strings.
Uncoated Strings: Offer a brighter, more resonant tone. Require more frequent changing due to dirt and corrosion.

6.5 Experimentation is Key

The best way to find the right strings for your electric guitar is to experiment with different gauges, materials, and winding types. Pay attention to how the strings feel and sound, and choose the ones that best suit your playing style and musical preferences.

7. Alternative String Options to Explore

While acoustic strings are generally a no-go, there are some alternative string options you might want to consider for your electric guitar:

7.1 Flatwound Electric Guitar Strings

As mentioned earlier, flatwound strings can provide a warmer, mellower tone that approximates acoustic sounds.

Smooth Feel: The smooth surface makes them comfortable to play and reduces finger noise.
Jazz and Blues: Commonly used in jazz and blues due to their warm, rounded tone.
Reduced Fret Wear: The smooth surface also reduces wear on the frets.

7.2 Monel Electric Guitar Strings

Monel is a nickel-copper alloy that offers a unique tonal character.

Vintage Tone: Provides a warm, vintage-style tone with a balanced frequency response.
Corrosion Resistance: Highly resistant to corrosion, making them a good choice for players who sweat a lot.
Mellow Sound: Monel strings will provide you with a mellow sound.

7.3 Silk and Steel Electric Guitar Strings

These strings have a silk core wrapped with steel.

Soft Feel: Very low tension and are easy on the fingers.
Warm Tone: Produce a warm, mellow tone suitable for fingerstyle playing.
Lower Output: Output is low, these are not generally recommended for guitars with high gain amps.

8. Expert Opinions on Strings

Let’s take a look at what some experts have to say about strings:

8.1. Statements by Influential Guitarists

Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top): “I like a really light gauge, .008s. I learned that from B.B. King. He said, ‘Man, why are you working so hard?'”
Stevie Ray Vaughan: Known for using heavy gauge strings (.013s) for a powerful tone and string bending.

8.2. Recommendations from Guitar Publications

Guitar World: Suggests experimenting with different string types to find the best match for your guitar and playing style.
Guitar Player Magazine: Recommends considering coated strings for extended lifespan and consistent tone.

9. Maintaining Your Electric Guitar Strings

Regardless of the type of electric guitar strings you choose, proper maintenance is essential for prolonging their lifespan and maintaining optimal tone.

9.1 Washing Your Hands

Always wash your hands before playing the guitar to remove dirt, oil, and sweat.

9.2 Wiping Down the Strings

Wipe down the strings with a clean cloth after each playing session.

9.3 Using String Cleaners

Use a specialized string cleaner and conditioner to remove grime and protect the strings from corrosion.

9.4 Storing Your Guitar Properly

Store your guitar in a case or gig bag when not in use to protect it from dust, humidity, and temperature changes.

9.5 Changing Strings Regularly

Change your strings regularly, typically every one to three months, depending on how often you play.

10. FAQ: Acoustic Strings On Electric Guitar

Here are some frequently asked questions about using acoustic strings on electric guitars:

10.1 Can I use acoustic guitar strings on my electric bass?

No, you should not use acoustic guitar strings on an electric bass. The scale length (the distance from the nut to the bridge) and the tuning of a bass guitar are different from those of a guitar, requiring strings with different lengths and tensions. Using acoustic guitar strings on a bass would result in very poor tone and playability.

10.2 Will acoustic strings damage my electric guitar?

Yes, acoustic strings can damage your electric guitar due to higher tension, potentially leading to neck bowing or bridge lifting.

10.3 Do acoustic strings sound good on electric guitars?

No, acoustic strings generally do not sound good on electric guitars. They produce weak output, thin tone, and uneven string response due to differences in magnetic properties and string gauge.

10.4 Can I use nylon strings on an electric guitar?

No, you cannot use nylon strings on a standard electric guitar. Nylon strings are not magnetic and will not produce any sound through the pickups. Additionally, nylon strings require a different type of bridge and nut than those found on electric guitars.

10.5 Can I use electric guitar strings on my acoustic guitar?

No, you should not use electric guitar strings on an acoustic guitar. Electric guitar strings do not provide enough tension to properly drive the soundboard of an acoustic guitar, resulting in a very weak and lifeless sound.

10.6 What happens if I put acoustic strings on my electric guitar?

If you put acoustic strings on your electric guitar, you will experience reduced output, thin and weak tone, uneven string response, and possible intonation issues.

10.7 Are there any exceptions to using acoustic strings on electric guitars?

The only possible exception is if you have a hollow-body electric guitar and primarily play it unplugged. In this case, acoustic strings might provide a slightly more pleasing acoustic tone, but you’ll still sacrifice the amplified tone.

10.8 Can I mix and match acoustic and electric guitar strings?

No, you should not mix and match acoustic and electric guitar strings on either type of guitar. This will result in an unbalanced sound and potential playability issues.

10.9 Where can I learn more about electric guitar strings?

You can find a wealth of information about electric guitar strings on websites like guitarplayers.net, stringjoy.com, and in guitar magazines like Guitar World and Guitar Player Magazine. You can also consult with experienced guitarists or guitar technicians for personalized recommendations. Address: 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States. Phone: +1 (617) 747-2261.

10.10 What is the best string brand for electric guitars?

There is no single “best” string brand for electric guitars, as it depends on your individual preferences and playing style. Some popular and well-regarded brands include D’Addario, Ernie Ball, Elixir, DR, and Stringjoy. It’s best to try out different brands to see which ones you like best.

In conclusion, while it might be tempting to experiment with acoustic strings on your electric guitar, the results are unlikely to be satisfactory. Stick with electric guitar strings designed for your instrument to achieve the best possible tone, playability, and longevity.

Ready to explore the world of electric guitar strings and find the perfect set for your playing style? Head over to guitarplayers.net for in-depth reviews, expert advice, and a vibrant community of fellow guitar enthusiasts. Discover the lessons, reviews, sheet music, and forums awaiting you!