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Post subject: Factory Strings
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 11:33 am
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I'm about to go get my new Strat, a MiM. What are the factory strings like? Is it better to just put some Ernie Ball 9s on it before I go get it or should I just go with the factory ones?


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Post subject: Re: Factory Strings
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 12:00 pm
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You will find out over time which strings suit your liking.
There are wide and subtle differences in sound and feel,
variations in what they're made of and their guage diameters,
and other things that will matter when you find YOUR favorite strings and the sound and feel you're looking for.

As an inexpesive experiment, I'd suggest to buy a small variety:
nickel wound, all steel, different guages (don't go above 11's, though on that MiM or you risk putting a bind in the guide nut)
a few different brands.

I always end up coming back to Fender nickel bullets and GHS Boomers


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Post subject: Re: Factory Strings
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 12:33 pm
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and just to add real quick:

Of all the MiMs I've bought new, the strings were sufficient for a general purpose middle-of-the-road sound. Played 'em for about 30 - 40 hours, then switched 'em out to suit my tastes.

What kind of sound/style are you looking to play?
Some strings are better suited for your desired output.


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Post subject: Re: Factory Strings
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 1:01 pm
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I'm looking at a style like if Eric Clapton and Andy Summers bore a child. So bluesy, jazzy, rock fusion type stuff. The only reason I ask is because at my music store I have a protection plan that covers string changes but I have to buy the strings.


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Post subject: Re: Factory Strings
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 1:21 pm
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Ha! o-kaaaay? 8)

In that case, you are going to get as many recommendations as there are strings.
After you try your share, only YOU can be the best judge of what you like.

I'd maybe bump it up a gauge to 10's to get a slightly fuller sound with a tad more sustain.
I think you're MiM comes with 9's installed.
Going from 9 to 10 may not require much (if any) of a set-up or trem spring adjustment.
(again, that's all according to your playing preferences).

I've found that the nickel-wound produce a richer sound,
and the Fender bullet-ends stay in tune nicely if you're doing a lot of string bending and trem-bar activities.

And do keep ANY point where a string touches ANYTHING (String trees, guide nut, saddles, etc) lubricated.

As for that Andy Summers sound... lots of chorus!


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Post subject: Re: Factory Strings
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 1:50 pm
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Just the fact you are asking means that (assuming you are okay with the standard 9-42 size) the strings that come on it will be perfectly fine.

The minor differences between 9-42 string brands will take a little bit of experience to pick up on.

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Post subject: Re: Factory Strings
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2014 9:43 pm
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Fender puts 9s on most of their guitars because most people play 9s.
Fender puts nickel plated steel strings on most of their guitars because most people like nickel plated steel strings.
It's not rocket science.
If you liked what was on it then replace them with the same.

Most likely Fender 250s, 9-42.
But they also make a set of 9-46 which a lot of people switch to.
(Personally, I am not a fan of nickel plated steel strings)
Fender 250s 9-46

If you are looking for a switch to something more vintage-ish then you should try pure nickel strings like they used back in the day. 10-46. This is what I run on all my Strats.
Fender 150s

If you are looking for a more metallic sound you might try stainless steel strings. They have a unique sound. They are advertised as being heavy metal strings but I actually like them as a clean sound on my Telecaster. Very spanky.
Fender 350s

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