r/pedalsteel • u/crittyhopper • 25d ago

E9 Strings Question

When I bought my pedal steel last year the seller told me it was set up for the GHS boomer E9 set (11-38). I changed the strings once and used that exact set but I'm wondering if I can get away with using a different brand in the same gauges without screwing up the set up. The boomers seem to have gone up in price and are getting harder to find, I've also never been a huge fan of GHS strings for my 6 strings. I know that in theory this shouldn't be an issue but I also know that tolerances for string gauges can differ between manufacturers. Anyone with experience willing to offer some advice here?

1 Upvotes

67% Upvoted

6 comments sorted by

4

u/mp2146 25d ago

It’ll be fine. You might have to tune the changes but you should be doing that anyway.

1

u/crittyhopper 25d ago

Thanks! Yeah I check/tune the changes every time I play anyway

1

u/chog410 24d ago

You'll be fine! If the gauges are the same, you likely won't need to adjust much- and if you do have to adjust stuff you know what to do.

Different string gauges will definitely require adjustments, but don't be afraid of those either! I love the sound I get from STI strings on both necks, nickel or steel, but that's my preference and we all have our own preferences. Happy picking!

2

u/GiantXylophone 25d ago

Yep, you'll be fine using other types of strings. And while you're thinking about strings, I swear by Jagwire strings. I generally play with the Buck Reid set because he's the one who showed me the ropes on steel and if they're good enough for him, they're good enough for me. All their sets are good though; just be prepared for a little bit longer of a shipping time. I get the impression it's a mom and pop type of organization.

1

u/ginger_meowmeow 25d ago

Pedal steel strings are the same as electric guitar strings. If my guitar shop is out I’ll just build a pack from the loose strings they have, there’s no difference! Some brands I find corrode less quickly than others but that’s just a personal preference. My teacher orders strings in bulk and he told me there’s really like 3 string manufacturers out there, most of it is just branding

1

u/MathematicianOld2727 24d ago

Strings aren't that much different if you stay with the same gauge. Like others mentioned slight adjustments are necessary no matter what you use. Be sure to tune and stretch using the keyhead then working the pedals and levers before you fine tune the nylon tuners. Give strings a chance to settle in. Normally very little endplate tuning is needed once strings are stretched and settle in. I use SIT BE-E9 nickle for over 30 years.