I know this is real old for some of you but, forgive me, I'm still a noob. Didn't find another "string" post in the first 3 pages of threads I looked through.

Just put a set of D'Addario EXL120 Super Light Gauge .009-.042 on the Powerhouse. I should have changed strings on day 1 after purchasing the guitar. Big difference! It was a little tough poking a couple of those old bullets out. Used a length of the old #6 string poking from the bridge to the back.

As for the D'Addario's, the #1 E could be a little brighter but the Strat is overall much better sounding now than it was. I might try another brand next go 'round. A friend recommended Gibson but the shop didn't carry them. Once I find what I like I'll probably order a small quantity from one of the big houses.

Also grabbed medium and heavy Fender picks. Already had 3 Martin 0.73mm mediums but the medium Fender pick has a slightly different feel to it I think I like a little better. Tried using the heavy pick to brighten the D'Addario #1 but am not crazy about how it feels.

At least the strings and picks are cheap and it'll be easy to try lots of varying combinations.

Lastly... a question for anyone who knows. The saddle springs that push the saddle toward the neck, on strings #1 and #4 they are just sitting on the screw and doing nothing. You can slide them up and down the threads. Should I replace them with longer springs? If so, where would be a good place to get them? I know... Google is my friend, but I want to pick your brains first.

Thanks,
Ron

hi ron , strings are a personal thing so whatever feels good and sound good to you is the way to go , i just changed my strings from 10's to 9's , bad move , i've lost a good bit of tone so it'll be back to the set up i've been using for 15 years

picks are also a personal thing if it feels good your sorted , ive been using dava picks for 10 years maybe more , check them out mate and if you cant get any send me your addy and i'll post a few your way

as for the saddle springs , hows the intonation of your strat ? the springs on my saddles are pretty bunched up , worth checking anyway , hth mate .cheers
Alan

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Alan, thanks for the offer on the picks. I'm sure I'll find something I like on this side of the pond. As much as I travel, I'll be in many guitar shops over the course of the year and I plan on getting one or two at almost every stop.

Intonation seems OK... again... I'm no expert but the guitar sounds good when I practice. I think the string tension keeps the saddles pulled tight on the screws.

The D'Addario tune easier than the old Bullets did. Barely have to turn it and they stay right. The old strings seemed somewhat rubbery. Old age I suspect.

I may use the luthier at the shop to do a setup on the guitar some time when I can live without it for a couple of days. For $35 they put on new strings of your choice and do a complete setup. Maybe try some 10's!

nae probs ron , but check the intonation , using a tuner tune the string in the open position then check that it's still in tune on the tuner at the 12th fret , i think you'll find it's out , cheers
Alan

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Checked it this morning and it was barely out (sharp). I dialed it in but it was so close it didn't make much difference. The springs are still too short so the saddle will not be at tension on the screw unless a string is on it. I can get springs easily enough. I don't see where they are all that critical except to keep the saddle tension on the screw to the extended position when restringing. Thanks Alan!

Hi VT,I've used D'Addario 8-38s for years and haven't had any problem with dead strings,I find that they hold their brightness longer and stay in tune much better than others.For picks I use Dunlop nylon .73 or .80 and have used them for years as they don't slip out of your grip no matter how much you sweat.Re the springs if your intonation is staying true I'd leave well enough alone.Keep on pickin'.PS give the D'Addarios another try,it is possible you stumbled on a bad string,it does happen.

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'65 Strat,65 Mustang,65 Jaguar,4 more Strats,3 vintage Vox guitars,5 Vox amps,'69 Bassman with a '68 2-15 Bassman cab,36 guitars total-15asst'd amps total,2 vintage '60s Hammond organs & a myriad of effects-with a few rare vintage ones.

VT

Your saddle will be at tension just fine. The pressure from tightening the sting pulls it forwards all that the screw will allow and keeps great tension. You could ditch all them springs and be fine regards tension. I think their there just so if the guitar doesnt have strings on for awhile the saddle doesnt move.

As for strings and picks you'll find your own way. Dont listen to people who say use 13's or those who say use 8's. You can get great tone with either, as long as your comfortable with em. Billy Gibbons uses 8's and has a massive sound. SRV used 13's. Clapton uses neither and no one complains about his sound.

Comfort enough to allow you to do your best is the key.

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No no and no