Key Takeaways:
- The best guitar nylon strings include sets by D’Addario, Savarez, Aranjuez, Augustine, and RC Strings.
- The D’Addario EJ45 offers a sweet and warm tone while the Savarez 500AJ carbon strings offer punchy volume and clarity.
- Finding the right strings for your classical guitar involves looking at materials, tension, brand, type, and more.
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Best Strings for Classical Guitar
My top nylon guitar string picks include packs by D’Addario, Savarez, Aranjuez, and Augustine.
| String Brand | Model | Tension | Material | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D’Addario | Pro Arte EJ45 | Normal | Nylon, silver-plated copper wound basses | Popular choice, balanced tone |
| Savarez | Alliance Corum 500AJ | High | Alliance treble strings, Corum carbon fiber basses | Projection and clarity, long-lasting |
| Aranjuez | Concert Gold 700 LT | Low | Silverplated wound basses, rectified nylon trebles | Warm tone, easy playability |
| Augustine | Classic NT Black LT | Low | Nylon, silver-plated copper wound basses, black color | Mellow tone, reduced finger noise |
| RC Strings | DW90 JG Dynamic White NT | Normal | Nylon, silver-plated copper wound basses, white color | Dynamic range, clear trebles, powerful basses |
| Aquila | Alabastro 19 C | Normal | Synthetic material (Nylgut®) | Bright, rich tone, quick settling |
| Savarez | 520B Traditional Strings | Normal | Rectified nylon trebles, silver-plated wound basses | Traditional feel and sound, well-balanced |
1. D’Addario Pro Arte EJ45: Best Nylon String Overall
First up is the D’Addario Pro Arte EJ45 set. These strings are like the Toyota Camry of classical strings. They are dependable, available everywhere, cheap, and they sound great.
You can buy these for cheaper in bulk so you don’t have to worry about not having a replacement string on hand. I found the strings settle alright after a couple of days and hold their tuning well. The sound is the “classic” classical sound you’d expect. The G string is a little bit “tubby” at times but they are sweet and warm overall.
The EJ45 set is known for its consistency. Each set maintains the same gauge, tension, and intonation for dependable performance. As a normal tension set, it balances playability and volume. The versatility of the EJ45 set extends beyond classical guitars, as they can be used on other nylon-string instruments such as flamenco guitars or hybrid classical-electric guitars. With D’Addario’s reputation as a trusted and well-established brand in the music industry, the Pro Arte EJ45 string set is a reliable choice for classical guitarists seeking a balanced and expressive sound.
2. Savarez Alliance Corum 500AJ: Best Savarez Strings for Classical Guitar
If you want to fill a hall with just the sound of your guitar, this is the string to try. I’ve played the Savarez Alliance Corum hard tension many times and always love the power they project. The sound is much more intense and skewed to the treble end since these are carbon strings.
The strings are hard to press down, though. It almost feels like you’re playing a steel string acoustic and not a classical guitar. Also, don’t throw these hard tension strings on a vintage classical because the stress on the top might be too great.
If you can get around the harder playing feeling of these strings, the sound is really spectacular. With the carbon material and hard tension, the strings stay in tune perfectly, as well, and are nearly immune to changing environments.
The treble strings are made from a proprietary synthetic fiber called Alliance Cantiga, which delivers a clear, bright, and responsive tone. The bass strings are wound with a composite core material, providing a rich, warm sound with excellent projection and sustain. The Alliance Corum set is known for its exceptional balance across all strings, allowing each note to sing with clarity and definition.
Savarez, a French company with a long-standing reputation for innovation and quality, has been a pioneer in the development of synthetic strings for classical guitars. The Alliance Corum set is a testament to their commitment to pushing the boundaries of string technology while respecting the traditions of classical guitar. Whether you are a professional musician or a passionate amateur, the Savarez Alliance Corum string set offers a distinctive and captivating sound that is sure to inspire your playing.
3. Aranjuez Concert Gold 700 LT: Best Classical Strings for Easy Playing
I have the Aranjuez Concert Gold 700 LT strings on my guitar at the moment. These are low-tension strings and are great for flamenco, which is what I’ve been focusing on recently. The strings have good longevity. Also, they are under $10 per pack, which is great. I buy mine from Strings by Mail since they have the best selection of this brand.
The Aranjuez Concert Gold 700 LT is a premium classical guitar string set that offers a combination of warmth, clarity, and projection. The 700 LT set is known for its exceptional dynamic range, allowing guitarists to express themselves with unparalleled nuance and sensitivity. The low tension of these strings provides a comfortable and effortless playing experience, making them ideal for long practice sessions or extended performances.
Despite their low tension, the Concert Gold 700 LT strings maintain a remarkable level of volume and projection, ensuring that every note is heard clearly and distinctly. The gold-plated materials not only contribute to the strings’ outstanding tonal qualities but also provide enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. This means that the Aranjuez Concert Gold 700 LT strings will maintain their sound and playability for an extended period, even under heavy use.
4. Augustine Classic NT Black LT: Good Classical Guitar Strings for Romantic Tone
Albert Augustine worked with Segovia to create the first nylon guitar strings in the 1940s. (Previously the only option was catgut.) Today, the Augustine Classic NT Black LT strings are another standby for many artists. The pack has normal tension trebles and low tension basses, which can add some upper harmonics to the lower tones.
You can find these strings under $10 which is great. I’ve tried a number of $20 and even $30 strings, which have all sounded good, but if I can get a decent pack for $10 I tend to go with those.
These strings are meticulously crafted using Augustine’s proprietary nylon formula, which is renowned for its rich, mellow tone and exceptional sustain. The treble strings, with their deep black color, provide a visual contrast against the guitar’s soundboard while delivering a smooth, balanced sound that is both crisp and responsive.
The bass strings, wound with silver-plated copper, offer a robust and well-rounded foundation. The low tension of the Augustine Classic NT Black LT set allows for effortless fretting and reduced finger fatigue, making them an ideal choice for beginners and experienced players alike who prefer a more relaxed feel without sacrificing tone or projection.
5. RC Strings DW90 JG Dynamic White NT: Best Classical String for Stability
Last up is the RC Strings DW90 JG Dynamic White NT set. I hadn’t heard of RC strings until I noticed a flamenco player using them. RC formulated a special material for these trebles which is white. It’s not a high-tension set, but you have to wind the strings quite a bit to get them up to tune. And once they’re in tune, they stay there.
I was specifically looking for a string that stayed in tune when I came across these. The nice thing is that RC sends an extra 4th string in this set. That string is at a higher tension and can become dull faster than the others, so you can switch it out. You can find these from Strings by Mail.
These strings are the result of a collaboration between RC Strings and the renowned classical guitarist Jorge Guillen, who worked together to create a set that caters to the needs of modern classical guitarists. The treble strings are made from a proprietary synthetic fiber that provides a bright, crisp tone with excellent projection and responsiveness. The bass strings are wound with silver-plated copper, delivering a rich, warm sound that perfectly complements the treble strings’ brilliance.
The normal tension of the DW90 JG Dynamic White NT set strikes an ideal balance between playability and volume, allowing you to execute technical passages with ease while still maintaining a powerful and dynamic sound.
6. Aquila Alabastro 19 C: Best Traditional Nylon Guitar String
This string set is designed to sound more traditional like gut strings. Aquila makes a material called Nylgut that has a bit of texture and sounds more focused like a lute string. The basses have Nylgut filaments, which is more similar to traditional strings that used silk filaments.
Recently I started listening to Rob MacKillop, who plays without nails and has a warm, traditional sound. I cut my nails off as well and tried out some strings he recommends. He recommends these Aquila basses (the Amazon link is the full set but you can get the basses alone from Strings by Mail). He recommends the Savarez 520B trebles, which I’ll cover next.
Aquila’s Nylgut material closely mimics the sound and feel of traditional gut strings while providing enhanced durability and tuning stability. The treble strings are made from a specialized Nylgut formula that produces a rich, mellow tone with excellent sustain and a subtle, silky texture. The bass strings are wound with Aquila’s proprietary Alabastro material, which is a synthetic fiber that offers a warm, full-bodied sound with exceptional projection and depth.
The light tension of the Alabastro 19 C set allows for a comfortable and responsive playing experience, making it easier to execute complex fingerings and intricate musical passages. The reduced string tension also promotes a more open, resonant tone, allowing the guitar’s natural voice to shine through.
The Aquila Alabastro 19 C strings are particularly well-suited for vintage or lightly-built guitars, as their lower tension reduces the stress on the instrument’s soundboard and bridge. Whether you’re playing intimate solo pieces or accompanying a singer, the Aquila Alabastro 19 C string set provides a captivating and expressive sound that will inspire your musical creativity.
7. Savarez 520B Traditional: Warm Classical Guitar Strings with Clear Fundamentals
These strings are also slightly textured like the Aquila Alabastros. This means they have a good sound for flesh-finger playing whereas nylon strings can be too smooth. Once again the Amazon link is for the full set but Strings by Mail has half-sets.
These classical guitar strings are crafted using traditional materials and techniques, ensuring a rich tonal heritage that has been cherished by guitarists for generations. The treble strings are made from rectified nylon, which provides a clear, bright, and focused sound with excellent projection and sustain.
The bass strings are wound with silver-plated copper, delivering a robust and well-rounded foundation that perfectly complements the treble strings’ clarity. The medium tension of the Savarez 520B Traditional Strings offers a comfortable playing experience. This tension also promotes a balanced response across the entire fretboard, ensuring that each note rings out with equal clarity and definition.
The high-quality materials used in these strings provide exceptional durability and tuning stability, ensuring that they maintain their outstanding tonal characteristics over an extended period. Whether you’re performing classical masterpieces or exploring contemporary compositions, the Savarez 520B Traditional Strings offer a timeless and versatile sound that will inspire your musical journey.
Nylon Classical Guitar Strings: Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right classical guitar strings is crucial for achieving the desired tone, playability, and durability. This guide will help you understand the key factors to consider when selecting strings for your classical guitar.
Materials: What Are Classical Guitar Strings Made Of?
Classical guitar treble strings (the three clear strings) are typically made from three materials: nylon, fluorocarbon, or gut/synthetic gut.
Nylon strings are the most common and affordable option. They produce a warm, mellow tone and are easy on the fingers. Nylon strings are ideal for beginners and players who prefer a softer sound. Popular nylon string brands include D’Addario Pro-Arté, Savarez Alliance, and Augustine Classic.
Fluorocarbon strings, such as D’Addario Pro Arte Carbon and Savarez Alliance, offer a brighter, more projecting tone compared to nylon. They have a faster response and better tuning stability, making them suitable for advanced players and stage performances.
Gut strings, made from sheep or cow intestines, were the original choice for classical guitars. They produce a rich, complex tone with excellent projection. However, gut strings are expensive, sensitive to humidity changes, and require more frequent tuning. Aquila Nylgut and Savarez Traditional are notable synthetic gut string options. These strings are slightly rougher to the touch and accent the fundamental note instead of its harmonics.
Experiment with Tension
String tension affects the feel and sound of your classical guitar. Lighter tension strings are easier to press down and have a mellower tone, while higher tension strings offer more volume, projection, and a crisper sound. Beginners may prefer light or medium tension strings, such as D’Addario EJ45 or Savarez 510CR, while advanced players often opt for high tension strings like D’Addario EJ46 or Savarez 540J for a more powerful and focused tone.
Coated vs. Uncoated vs Polished
Coated strings, such as D’Addario XT45, have a thin protective layer that extends string life and reduces finger squeak. They maintain a smooth feel and clear tone longer than uncoated strings. However, some players prefer the more natural feel and sound of uncoated strings.
You can also find polished strings designed for recording and performance like the D’Addario Pro Arte Lightly Polished set. These strings reduce squeaks but can become dull faster than standard strings.
Compare Brand and Price
Reputable classical guitar string brands include D’Addario, Savarez, Augustine, Hannabach, and La Bella. While higher-priced strings often offer better quality and longevity, it’s essential to find a balance between your budget and the desired performance. Experiment with different brands and models within your price range to find the strings that suit your playing style and tonal preferences. I personally like many string sets from Aranjuez which are under $10.
Keep Maintenance in Mind
Proper string maintenance can extend the life of your classical guitar strings. Wash your hands before playing to remove dirt and oils that can degrade the strings. Wipe the strings down with a clean, dry cloth after each playing session. Store your guitar in a case or humidity-controlled environment to protect the strings from extreme temperature and humidity changes.
When to Change Nylon Acoustic Guitar Strings
Change your classical guitar strings when they begin to sound dull, lose their intonation, or show signs of wear, such as discoloration or fraying. The frequency of string changes depends on factors like playing time, sweat, and humidity. On average, classical guitar strings last between one to three months with regular playing.
At the end of the day, selecting the right classical guitar strings involves considering materials, tension, gauge, coating, brand, and price. Experiment with different options to find the strings that best complement your playing style and musical goals. Remember to maintain your strings properly and replace them when necessary to ensure the best sound and playability from your classical guitar.
Best Guitar Nylon Strings: Conclusion
In wrapping up, the D’Addario EJ45 is my pick for the best and most reliable classical guitar string to start with. Savarez 500AJ is great if you want volume and stable tone while Aquila Alabastro is good for synthetic gut sounds.
Best Nylon Strings for Guitar: FAQ
Below are a few frequently asked questions about nylon guitar strings:
How do nylon strings differ from steel strings?
Nylon strings have a softer, more pliable feel compared to steel strings. They produce a gentler, more rounded tone, while steel strings offer a brighter, more pronounced sound. Nylon strings also require less tension, making them easier on the fingers.
How long do nylon guitar strings typically last?
The lifespan of nylon strings depends on various factors, such as playing frequency and personal hygiene. On average, nylon strings can last between 1 to 3 months with regular playing. However, some musicians may need to change them more frequently for optimal sound quality.
Can I use nylon strings on any guitar?
No, nylon strings should only be used on guitars specifically designed for them, such as classical and flamenco guitars. These guitars have wider necks, lower string tension, and different bracing patterns compared to steel-string acoustic or electric guitars.
Are there different gauges of nylon guitar strings?
Yes, nylon strings come in different gauges or thicknesses. The most common gauges are low, normal, and high tension. The choice of gauge depends on personal preference, playing style, and the specific guitar. You’ll notice brands and materials differ in feel even within the same tension type.
Can I use classical guitar strings on an acoustic?
You can’t really use classical guitar strings on an acoustic. An acoustic guitar is built for steel strings which have much higher tension than nylon. The neck may flex backward under lighter nylon tension. It also won’t sound great.
Which end of the classical guitar string goes where?
If the classical string has a “floppy” end or a part where the winding is more flexible, that end goes around the tuning peg at the headstock. If the string doesn’t have a difference, either end works.
What are the best nylon guitar strings?
My pick for the best nylon guitar strings is the D’Addario EJ45. This set provides warm tone, it’s inexpensive, and it’s has reliable consistency between sets.
Can you put acoustic strings on a classical guitar?
You should not put acoustic strings on a classical guitar. Steel strings have much higher tension than nylon and can warp the top of your guitar or cause the bridge to crack and separate.
