5

I'm a new guitar player and found an old acoustic guitar in the attic which had rusty strings.
I bought some Elixir Phosphor bronze acoustic strings, but now that I have received them I'm kinda confused.

Pictures for visual aid

Above you will find some pictures.
I let one string stay for ease of clarification.
My understanding of my guitar is that I have to tie it with a knot just like the last string is right now as there are no pins, but the Elixir strings has this loop.
Can I use them anyway and how would I tie them with the loop? :)
To be honest I am also confused that it says 3/4 acoustic, concert and classical guitar on the label inside the guitar, I understand that 3/4 means size but can it be all three at the same time?

2
  • 2
    Just to avoid any further confusion, if you have any luthier or music store in your area, I recommend getting their help with picking out strings; they ought to be able to show you how to put them on, too. Oct 17, 2022 at 16:53
  • 8
    As John says, if you have put the strings on, take them off immediately! They're not the correct ones for that guitar! They will single-handedly wreck it in one go!
    – Tim
    Oct 17, 2022 at 18:43

2 Answers 2

14

The instrument in the photo is a classical guitar, not acoustic. It uses nylon strings: the three treble strings are from plain nylon (like the one remaining on the photo), and the three bass strings are nylon fibers with metal wound, unlike acoustic/electric guitar strings which have steel core.

Don't put metal (acoustic or electric) strings on a classical guitar. See e.g. Putting a steel string on a classical guitar? (classical guitar with truss rods)

1
  • 1
    Comments are not for extended discussion; this conversation has been moved to chat.
    – Doktor Mayhem
    Oct 20, 2022 at 7:15
13

…and just to reinforce user1079505’s answer, if you did manage to put them on remove them immediately. A classical guitar is designed for about 1/2 to 1/3 the string tension of a steel string acoustic so you can easily damage the neck or bridge or both with steel strings.

0

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.