I use Elixir Polyweb 10-46 electric strings guitar in my guitar and I love it so much! I was skeptical about coated strings first but then everything changed my point of view it forever!
Was using NYXL, smug and a bit beligerant about it too, noticed that the tuning stability, and crispy clean shimmery wonderfullness was unmatched on a fresh set. 3hrs per night, for 1 week, then the shimmer was gone, the shine faded away and sadness set in. NO OTHER coated string, gave me that one week of awesome. At the music store, i saw Elixr Polywebs, remembered Scott Grove, rolled my eyes and bought them. This was 1month ago, and they look, and sound incredible. Scott never mentiioned the slick, almost squeek free feel Polys provide. Thats a plus that makes up for the slight, very slight, almost insignificant loss of shimmery crispness that the NYXLs faithfully provided... for 1week. Scott Grove is right. The earth is round,. These are the facts lol. Rock On folks, Thanks Scott.
That's awesome. I'm glad that they did. As you know, not everything is for everyone, but these are just the ones that did the job for me and seem to be the "smartest" way of doing the coating job. Hey, welcome to the Elixir Polywebs! Be groovy and thanks for writing in about them. Cheers.
I should have known too, ive had the same set of elixirs on for just over a year on my acoustic. I do faithfully wipe them at the end of each use, i have absolutely no reason to change them. I believe Nyxls are treated even before they are wound.
I owe you a big one scott, the exlixir strings have made my so much happier playing guitar, I can get 5 plus months out of a set of string wich would otherwise just go dead in 5 minuets.
I tried them on your recommendation a few years ago and have used them exclusively ever since. I don't have corrosive sweat so they just sound 'new' for such a long time. I love them
I've been using Nano 10-46 for almost 10 years...not sure I have acid hands, but I get at least 5x the life out or em vs nickel. I used to use D.M. Blue Steels. How long are you guys getting out of Polys? Might have to give em a go if they last longer than Nano. Thanks!!
I also tried them, but due to my aggresive picking, after some time the coating started to peel off and boy it was a real mess. Maybe it's just me, I don't know, but I pick like crazy mf. Maybe I should adopt my playing style and technique, what do you guys think?
The Elixir Polywebs with the anti rust coat. Are the only strings I will use. I started using them when made the first video about them. so I gave them a try and I was hooked. I love them
Thanks for turning me on to the Polywebs. My favorite strings in regards of feel were Ernie Balls but they don't last compared to the Polys. I had sealed GHS Boomer strings rust in the pack whereas with the Elixirs they stay fresh. For durability and saving money; the Elixirs are the best!
About 4 or 5 years ago I started to learn guitar from our videos. At that time I saw your recommendation for these strings. Never had to change strigs since then. They still sound great! Thanks scott!
I got a set of polywebs last summer and I like them so much more than the nanowebs. They're gonna save me so much money. They don't seem to have that inevitable peeling issue that I had with the nanowebs.
It's crazy how some people have that problem where they have to change their strings. I've never had a problem with sweating while playing myself. I'm *SO* glad about that too. I've known a lot of people that have had that problem. The other guitar player in our band uses Elixirs and *only* Elixirs. For whatever reason, I've never liked the way they "feel". *Especially* when they're brand new. I feel like my hands stick to them.
I took your advice about a year ago and bought the polywebs. They are even better than I thought; the coating is not visibly getting shredded at all. The only disadvantage is the that the slide notes are quite dead.
+metallitech Awesome. It is always great when you find something that works for you or at least works for you in a certain situation. I've never had any problems with slide notes at all, but that doesn't mean anything. They will react differently to everyone. Just kind of like an ex-wife. lol She'll probably actually GIVE IT UP to the NEXT guy. lol
I live in PA and used to practice in a non-climate controlled storage shed. My strings would always rust quickly from humidity and general dirt from my hands. I had a guitar store salesman tell me he had a new product that might work for me to prevent the rust. It was Elixir's. That was probably 20 years ago, and they didn't rust and I loved the slippery feel. That set of strings I played for probably years, mostly because they were on an Ibanez RG with a floating trem and I never had success with string changes on that guitar. I did notice the area over the pickups where the pick makes contact eventually started to "flake". But for many years I sang praises about Elixir's. They're a great product.
I play only with the Elixir Polyweb strings since I began to learn. Never even tried other types 'cause my first teacher already gave me that amazing short cut! Good advice!
I don't sweat like Scott does but I do use Elixer Polywebs. I fingerpick (never use a plectrum, well maybe a couple times a week) For fingerpicking they are great feeling strings.... I hope the chemical coating doesn't give me finger cancer ;)
Dear Dr. I been using DR Pure Blues on my Strat and love em. Agreed I do not play for hours at a time. One hour MAX a day due to a old back injury. I will give these Elixer Poly's a go when my two sets in hand are finished. I do use Elixer Nanowebs on my Acoustic Guitars and love the way they sound and feel. Many thanks, Dan in the UK
Dude, these strings saved my ass. I live in South East Asia now. Humidity like you have never seen, I was going through 2 sets sometimes a month( I don't play live anymore). Heavy rusting after one night f playing, I know I'm also an acidic guy. My wife bought a case of these baitches like a month and a half ago and I'm in shock not only are they made well they do not rust or corrode. Incredible, I can change strings every three or four months now. How do they not go dead after a while bud? Grea video, my wife loved it.
I wonder is that water proof spray thing would help aluminum strings last longer too and if it would have an adverse effect on the strings' brightness...
Hi sir. I'd a talk with on facebook but couldn't get a more proper opinion. It is that I own prs guitar . So I wanted to know which strings do u suggest I should use . 1. Ernie ball rps 2. D'addario exl110 regular gauge 10,13,17,26,36,46 3.D'addario exl110 bt balanced tension gauge 10,13.5,17,25,34,46 4. Elixir or rotosound 5. Dunlop or ghs strings 6. D'addario nyxl 10 regular gauge 10,13,17,26,36,46 7. D'addario nyxl balanced tension gauge 10,13.5,17,25,34,46 . I'll go. With the gauge and strings that u suggest.
I recently paid 3x the price of regular strings for a pack of cleartone, suposedly to last at least 3x longer compared to uncoated strings. After 1 hour playing, the strings already started to show the black spots of oxidation. After 4 or 6 hours, the plain strings were almost completely dark. I'm about to switch to Elixirs, cause it seems that as I get older, my sweat is becoming really agressive on the strings. Have used the Plolyweb on my acoustic once, and they have last long enough.
Dr. groovy, for poor man's coated strings, I will take a dryer sheet,and rub up and down, front & back of regular strings, and it works amazingly well, ➕ it keeps the strings prestin. if you are on a budget of course.
Scott, thank you for all your informative videos. I started using Elixir Polywebs after watching your previous video, about a year ago. My strings use to only last a couple days before going dead and would start rusting and breaking after a week or so. Switching to polywebs has made my guitar playing experiences so much more enjoyable. :-)
Scott, I heard you say that you never break a string. I put the strings on my guitars and my 10 year old son's guitars. We both tend to break the high e. If you have the time would you please make a video about the best way to string guitars? We would appreciate it!
Hi Scott! I started using Elixir strings when I saw your videos some years back. I use Nanoweb 10-52s on my guitars tuned to D standard (because they don't make the Polywebs in that gauge), and yes, they start flaking where I pick, but are fine over the fingerboard. I still get way better mileage from those than regular strings. I occasionally try other brands of coated strings, but they have all been rubbish, just like you have told. The Curt Mangan coated strings and D'Addario EXPs both wen't black the first day I played them! I just wan't to thank you for the hours of entertainment and information you have given us, and I hope you are getting better with your illnesses!
hey scott its been a while since iv spoke to you I had to change my name to this one I use to be just another dummy that one isn't being used nowthe question I have is do polyweb acoustic strings feel the same as the electric strings do? iv got a 57 d28 without a truss rod of course. that feels like the neck and strings have sticky feeling drag to it its just a pain in the ass to play compaired to my old fender does HELP plz thx bud
Scott, I totally agree.... Been using Elixer's Polywebs since 2006 ( since I bought my first Taylor)....and I too use them on all my guitars, acoustic and electrics..... I have about 53 new sets.... stored in drawers.... when ever I come across them, whether it's a music store, or in a catalog, I buy a few sets, Poly's only.... and throw them in my drawers.... and it's true what you're saying, they don't loose their tone.... I find my self changing them only out of boredom... :-)
Elixir must owe you a lot! How many people have converted to Elixirs because of you? I honestly knew nothing about them until you. I personally love the sound and especially the feel. I don't set my acoustic action too low, I prefer a little height and thus love the polyweb feel and lack of string drag. It just works for me. The fact that they last so long (for me) is an added bonus and cost effective. I have one acoustic which I have to use 10s on and never had a string break. on the electric side I recently tried some d'adds that were given to me and they were dead mid set. I'd be lost without Elixir polys!
I use the Nano Web Taylor balanced set on my Taylor 314. For electrics the Ernie Ball coated with the Titanium winding at the ball end. Compared to Elixer electrics, I don't know. They last a LONG time even here on the Gulf Coast and sound and feel great. Just got a set of the NYXL's and the new Pardigm or whatever and may try them after the next gig when I will be due for a change.
Hey Scott, I'd like to know your opinion on them, if you have tried, Elixir's new Optiweb strings. I feel they offer a little bit of extra tension than a normal string would so 10's feel a little bit more like .0105 or .011 gauge strings. I like them, and so far they work great, but I'd like to hear your opinion. Thank you very much Scott.
Great Video you say you use the same gauge strings for all your electrics but what about shorter scale guitars for instance I just purchased a Peavey T-15 for a killer price with the original case with the amp built in, due to your recommendations on the old peavey stuff. And it is awesome!! Would you still recommend using the .009 super light gauge strings or something a little bit heavier? Sorry if this is a dumb question I am slowly getting back into guitar and learning through all your videos how guitarded I really am!! I also got a great deal on a PRS SE EG hardtail for $125 also a great guitar!!
Hi Scott, I hope you are doing okay. I also thank you for talking about these strings. I have high acidic skin and wipe out, or disintegrate watches (plastic AND metal) and used to change strings when I could afford them, usually once a month, and my old cheapie strings were rusted and dead after the first week. I have just changed the Elixir strings twice on my two guitars in the TWO YEARS you first talked about them, they last and stay crisp for so long. Thanks for the tip on the cords, too... just looked them up, I could use some spares for my gig rig.
I gave them a shot on your advice Scott, although I probably didn't have the problem that demanded needing coated strings to begin with of corrosive hands, and I've decided for me they're no bueno, my sharp fingernails shred the coating around the picking area in no time.
There are ways to do the pick scrape thing without fucking your windings up. If you tilt the pick forward, it's a lot less like a knife going around them. Also, I use a nylon pick.
How long would they hold up on a single guitar you play daily though? I can see them lasting as long as you say with that many guitars, but even without playing strangely and doing whatever you can to lengthen their life it's hard for me to see how they'd last longer than 6 months on a guitar you play daily. I ask because while I like what I play, I also have the same acidic sweat problem you have and have strings rust pretty quickly.
Hey Scott, I bought this strings off Ebay got 3 sets for the price of 2 now after a month being away and not playing my guitar they still sound amazing and still in tune! JUST CURIOUS what are your favorite Acoustic Guitar strings? mine was Dean Malarkey but they are hard to find in Europe any suggestions ?
hi this is off the record completly but wanted to ask.is it worth holding on to a peavey vandenberg guitar signature 1st serie .will these guitars ever go up in value?or is not worth keeping them?
Help Dr. Groovy! What strings do you run on your electric 12 string? I've looked all over for some Polys but they are nowhere to be found. So, what does the Good Doctor use, are you a Country Settler and do you have to settle for nanos?
hmm I use nanos and also find they last waaaaay longer than every other brand but I still have to change them every month or two as the high strings end up all rough and cruddy. perhaps I just need to clean them?
Hi Scott,, Im sham I need ur expertise opinion on this.. I used elixir nano web super light. I don't have scientific data on this but me and my friends found out that our frets tend to worn out very very fast. What is ur opinion this Sir? By the way as u mentioned we really love its tone and last for a long time indeed. May be like Newton said every acrion there's an opposite reaction. Thank you and I love ur videos vry much.
Hi Scott, Love your videos... I know you hate the Nano's but after 20 odd years of using SIT, Deans, D.D's and Ernie Balls.... I tried Elixar Nanowebs in the last month and couldn't be happier. I Rust new strings within 45 mins the same as you... so far these nano's have lasted me 2 weeks of hours and hours of playing and they still look and sound new. (haven't noticed any coating stripping off yet) I will give the Poly's more of a chance one day but I'm not fond of that thick coating, it feels horrible and sounds like shizen.
LOL, I'm just happy that you were able to find SOMETHING that solved your acidic sweat problems. If the Nanos do it for you....that's way more than most people get. It's a beautiful thing when one part of the puzzle is solved and at least you don't have to keep hunting for the PERFECT STRINGS any longer. Cheers and congrats!
I've got Elixir Polyweb 10's on all my electric guitars, and I swear by them. Some guitars have had a set on for several years, and they still sound brand new. Scott, speaking of coated strings, what's your opinion of the DR Neon strings? Does that neon coating actually serve a purpose in terms of tone and string life, or are they purely cosmetic?
+6672rock Howdy! I can 100% say that the DR Neon and other colored/coated strings are the worst I've ever heard. They are SOMEHOW deader than flatwounds. It's truly amazing how bad they suck. I used to have a video on here where I compared them side by side with the Elixirs...well, that's still on here but hidden. But, it's still on my site. I honestly can't believe that anyone would ever buy a 2nd set of them.
Love your straight to the point attitude!!!! You are an amazing person and tell it like it is! I love your lessons or "rantings....if that what it is?" I listen to what you have to say about items.....something I may be thinking of buying ......Iwill check to see if you have ever covered whatever it is that I may be buying. I tried the coated strings and was a little impressed at first but noticed how they wore quickly and loose their tone,,,,,,,,,strumming area wears out first...........never use again! Keep up the good postings!!
also i dont thik they were elixers.....they were the ones that were like you say painted on and any color......i happened to try black ones......im oen minded so maybe the elixers are worth looking at.......try em before i knock em
I use Elixir's on every guitar except my number #1, the floating whammy breaks strings constantly. The only ones that don't break seem to be Rotosound's...
got them on my telecaster for 4 months, the only complaint, the low E intonation is les than perfect, is time to change them I guess, but I will buy them again.
I've been using elixir polywebs and they go dead about once a month of course I let in a few hours a day of practice and then I've gone to play a four hour show in a poorly air conditioned room. acoustic strings last me about a day so I've been using regular Ernie ball 10S heavy bottoms on my electrics, and the elixir polywebs on my acoustics. but the polywebs on my epiphone, peavey and fender strat just don't last so I deal with changing strings twice a month. it's more than likely due to my sweat acidity not mixing with the polymer very well. any how cheers!
Hi Scott, I thought that I would comment on the Elixir strings. I did take your advice some time ago. Yes I agree that for electric guitar, I find them very very good. They are very bright and crisp and keep their tone, which Ernie balls do not keep their brightness very long. But I am not a shredder or anything like that, that would scrape the coating off of the strings, but I did find just through normal playing that the coating did start to shred off of the string. I don't scrape the strings with a pick or anything like that. I do find that they retain their crisp bright sound for a very long time. They're definitely better than any other string that I have tried. In spite of the bit of shredding ,that I got off of a couple of strings , I still think they are great strings. I use the polyweb only. I have found that using the 9 to 42 gauge strings the best. I did use the 11 gauge for quite a while, but switched back to the 9's. As for lasting 10 to 15 years, no I don't think so for me personally . I still would also highly recommend these strings as you do. As for my Martin acoustic guitar, I don't like them. For some reason my Martin just doesn't ring with them. My Martin is a D-42 custom guitar. If it was set up for electric use, it probably would be fine. You're probably right about selling a lot of strings for Elixir. Thanks Michael Newell from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Hey Scott, have you tried/or your thoughts on La Bella Vapor Shield treated strings? Not "spray" coated but a new approach to try and solve the same player issue. Thanks
+DIGTHEBIGRIGG1 Howdy! I'm glad you asked. I actually put a set on one of my MIDI axes that I use a LOT here when recording and have taken to a few gigs. So, they've been getting a REAL workout and are still holding up! I had a video posted here when I first put them on and people were just being their normal selves....lol So, I took it off of here. But yeah. I'm going to grab some more for different instruments as well to see just how well they hold up One bass player I played with for about 12 years used La Bella bass strings. He has nasty gunk going on as well. He would use them one night. They would be dead halfway through the night....pull them off and boil them for the next night and then do it one more time before tossing them in the trash. So, he had to go through at least 2 sets per week. He's been working at a music store in Nashville for quite a few years now. I'll have to see if he ever tried the Vapor Shields or not. It would be interesting on how they've worked out for him as well. So, I'll grab more and post the usage in a video on here. Cheers!
Yes. I used to have to put brand new strings on every 30 minutes on stage. Even my main axe that I used for 25 years has had the same set of the Elixir Polywebs on it for 15 years now and they sound identical to the day they were put on.
My preference is for Nanoweb 80-20 lights for acoustics. I find the Polywebs have a 'plasticky' tone, but Nanowebs weren't yet available when I first began using Elixirs some 20 years ago. I also have toxic sweat and they were an absolute godsend.
Scott, just curious, what's your opinion on D'Addario Balanced Tension strings? I love em. I tried them on one guitar and I now have them on all my guitars.
I like elixirs. I prefer the nanoweb. They are just brighter and have more bite than the poly webs. I’ve never had an issue with peeling. If that ever happened I’d have gone back to non coated strings years ago.
Hi Scott ! I don't have skin acidity issues, BUT, I'm not "gentle" with my strings. I sometimes tend to like to punch them like a maniac. In the mid 90s, I visited a friend of mine, Mr Bert Wills, one greatest Blues player, in Houston, and during a discussion where we talked about guitars and string longevity, he introduced me to a brand new string brand at that time, the GoreTex Elixir strings. And actually, I've NEVER changed that brand of strings ever since. One thing that you forgot to mention, and most certainly because you must have a more appropriate way of playing than mine, is that the GoreTex coating actually HOLDS the winding together around the core. What does that mean ? It means that, not only dirt gets between the winding to deaden the tone of wound strings, but also, with time, when you tend to "hit hard" on the wound strings, the winding will slowly and slightly get loose around the core, deadening the tone even more. So, not only the GoreTex coating protects from oxidation, but it also prevents the winding to start loosening around the core of the wound strings. Unfortunately, due to the way I play, I tend to need to change these Elixir strings ... but I manage to keep a stable response of the wound strings for about 3 weeks or so, instead of something like an hour (or even less sometimes) with regular uncoated strings. I haven't tried any other coated brands of strings yet, so, I can't give any opinion about other supposedly coated strings brands. I only play Elixir strings. Period !
Polyweb is my favorite too I have yet to use another coated string like it. Does anyone know any other brand that comes close to the slickness of polyweb?
I use Nanowebs, mainly because I need different gauges, and they worked great for over a year. I just changed em and figure these will last another year. Oh, and I got them based on your recommendation, even though you disliked Nanowebs.
They're just nickel plated steel with an 'optiweb coating' and a 'natural feeling'. They cost twice as much as regular roundwound nickel plated steel strings. I'm very sceptic about them, but I will try them out.
Did you ever try Cleartone strings? I put a set of Monster Series ones on one of my Schecters like a year and a half ago and they sound just as good as the day I acquired them. They're coated but they don't 'feel' coated, they feel like your standard Steel strings. I do love Elixirs though, my only gripe with them is how they feel, they feel almost silken
I saw your original Elixir video and decided to give them a go since I also rust strings like crazy. Here I am about what, 8 years later? these are the only strings I use. I personally use the Nanowebs because they're available on the gauge that I prefer to use (10-52) and while it's true the coating flakes and don't last anywhere near the same the Poly's do, they still last for AGES. I used to have to replace strings every week or so and now I replace them every year or so and that's mainly because I need to clean up the fretboard lol. The nano's do flake a bit after some time but as long as you're not using coins as picks or pick sliding, they'll be fine. All in all I've saved a massive amount of money by switching to these and I love to just be able to pick up a guitar I haven't used in months and have it playable immediately instead of having to change the strings. Every guitar in my cabinet is always ready to go. I love them.
Yes...I have the same ability to rust strings like you!..Always used D'Addario Nickel XLs but am gonna try these Elixir strings!....Thanks for all your fantastic videos. ..Cheers Frank THE MEMPHIS SUNS
I love Elixir strings on an acoustic ( Nanoweb). I have been playing for 51 years and the only strings you could get were Back Diamond with a wound G- Bluegrass only.
I'm playing stringed instrument for 15years now, I never got any sweating issue... unless this summer. On electric guitar with ernie ball, no problems. But on acoustic guitars with D'addario, same as you. Never got the problem before. I tried Phosphore Bronze strings, even worst, my string and my finger started to taint green ! Dispite I felt like Hulk, I was really pissed off. I tried Thomastik acoustic strings, wasted my money. Then I discovered by accident nanoweb strings (they were mounted on a new guitar I bought), and WOW, they remain brilliant for days as before. I then came accross your vidéo where I discovered more about those. Will try the polyweb next time.
Dude! Changed every set!? I just cannot even fathom what you just said. I don't change mine until they start to sound a little muffled, which is about a month, with about 15 hours a week of play. I left mine on one time for 6 months on a guitar. Still didn't rust. I do rub a very light coating of oil on my fingertips before I play so I can slide easier. Hehe. Lube. You have changed my mind about Elixer polywebs. I had no idea. I imagine they also make bass guitar gauges.
Yeah, it's a bitch of a thing to have to do. There are TONS of us out there. Many bass players that have to do it as well. Then you get the freaks like Brian Setzer who needs (in his head) new tubes in his amp every single show. Whatever works for him. But yeah....these strings have been just a true God send. I spent my whole career spending half my money on strings and ALLLLLL of my time every single break changing strings. If I wanted to get any break time, I had to bring 6 guitars to a gig, each with new strings on them and just play a different one each set. I'm just glad that such things exist now for those of us who really NEED them. I can't imagine setting up each new guitar I get and then the strings rusting off of my guitar in about a day. It's nice to reach up, grab any guitar and the strings will be 100% fresh sounding, even with TONS of water being poured on them with the humidifiers going full blast as well here in the desert. Between where I live and my chemical make up, the conditions are PERFECT for testing these coated strings out. It takes no time to tell what works and what is hype.
+Ally Cat :3 90% of the time, that will be caused by a burr on your bridge saddle or a sharp edge on the tuner hole. Depends on what end it is breaking on. I'm sure that it's not breaking in the middle.
Now they are trying to push their ''Optiweb'' coating. Have you tried those Scott? I cant find mediums in the polyweb, just in their Optiweb and Nanos.
Hey there Yeah, I'm going to get a set of them just to laugh at them and post a FAIL review on the OPTIWEB. Whenever I need sets of POLYWEB string sets that are NOT available, I always just order my own sets by putting together sets here: www.juststrings.com/electricpolywebcoatingelixirguitarsinglestrings.html NOBODY thinks to do it. They sell all strings individually. So, I can put together 7 string sets and sets for all of my bluegrass instruments as well. So, you can go toss any set together that you want. Cheers.
Groovy Music Lessons hey scott, are you working on the optiweb review? i'm really curious of what you have to say, i have tried polywebs and i love them but only on acoustics though.
I took your recommendation on the Elixirs about 2-3 years ago and haven't gone back since. I had a set on my Gibson SG Standard for about 14 months. I only changed them because I thought I ought to at the time. I use Elixir strings on all of my guitars, both electric and acoustic.
AWESOME! It's simply cool when you can find the RIGHT string for you. The Elixir folks started something great for sure. They just now put out a 3rd type of coating that I haven't tried yet. So, I have to order some to try and review. Thanks for letting me know that they worked out for your sweat type. That's too cool!
Ok Scott, I saw your video about 6 months ago. I play a Fender Stratocaster and was changing strings every 2 weeks or so with regular 5- 7$ strings. I switched both of my guitars over to Elixer. I love the tone* I love the minimal finger noise and above all else it is not the extra life I get that I love but the way my fingers have changed. I used to have really bad calluses on my fingertips because of my manic playing. I live at Oregon State Hospital and am committed. I play lead guitar and sing in the Oregon State Hospital Patient Band. My band mates noticed the increased tone too. My fingertips no longer peel off, they have feeling again! On Saturday I will change my electric strings for the 3rd time since I saw your video 6 months ago, that is on average 2 months per set! That is 6 times as long as the cheap shitty non coated ones gave me. (I Use nano webb, tried poly webb on my acoustic and they were good except the coating has splintered off around the 2nd and 3rd fret on the low E and the A and D strings after 2 months.)Check out on youtube (Oregon State Hospital Band)Thanks Scott!
+Cody Seth Crawford So cool to know that someone else was saved by these things too. That's what it's all about. There are PLENTY of us who simply won't be willing to give these up. Others, they don't dig them and that's fine. You're right about saving those fingers. It is great to have feeling in them and I think I can make out the leftovers of fingerprints under there somewhere. I never could find them before. lol I'm going to go hunt you guys up right now. I appreciate you writing in. Everybody thinks I have a "deal" with Elixir, nope.....it is simply a BIG DEAL that they are just there to be had for those who simply need them. Nobody "gets it" unless they have battery acid for sweat. lol CHEERS!
+Groovy Music Lessons P.S...I must thank you Scott for teaching me how to set up my guitar/ intonation and have helped teach other people here at OSH how to tune and take care of their guitars,I have become very good at fixing my gear and taking care of it with almost no tools available to me. The other day one of the guys got his guitar back after being suicidal a while back so the staff took his guitar strings off, for over 2 months no strings were on it. I had to shimmy the neck since we had no allen wrench to fit the truss rod. Your videos on You-tube made my music life much easier. I started player here 2 years ago, and got you-tube like one year ago when we got computers installed in minimum security bridge 2 unit. The internet made my ability to get the chords and notes down super fast and easy.Now that I have your channel and also thanks to other good youtube teachers I have learned more than I thought I could in the time frame, I have high functioning Autism or whatever bullshit they want to call it that is convenient for them that year.What I now have from playing guitar; to finally match my harmonica ability is priceless to me! If I had been able to play like I can now back when I lived in Panama 6 years ago I would probably had never have left and would had not been in need of money...maybe. Thank you once again Scott, you are a really great teacher and a genuine humanHave a great Christmas! -Cody Seth Crawfordcodylockedupcrawford@gmail.com
Hey Dr. Groovy, I know you have probably answered that a million times, but how many times do you play your guitars, I know some you like more and some you just don't like(Paul Stanley's LP for example), but I'm curious because you had a lot of guitars over the years, and you like to sell them too. Thanks anyways, always nice to see your videos!
I actually go under the High E and B strings with my string rag and just give all the others a single snap, kind of like a bass player pops his strings playing funk. That "POP" method works pretty well with non coated strings too. Do it about half a dozen times per wound string and it pops all the chunks of dirt out from between the windings of your stings. Just pull them straight away from the fingerboard and let the sting go, smacking the frets. It's a cool trick that brings them back to life real quick. If you WIPE the wound strings down, you are just spearing the grime into the windings and smoothing it all out. So, wipe the plain strings and snap the wound ones with no wiping.
Elixir sure does work! But my problem with the nano web is that they roll off under my finger when I bend. Do those Poly web do the same? Great video btw!
This guy defines real. Man, what a honest character. Awesome video. Glad Elixir hooked you up!
I'm constantly learning from you Scott. Thank you for doing what you do. Cheers
I use Elixir Polyweb 10-46 electric strings guitar in my guitar and I love it so much! I was skeptical about coated strings first but then everything changed my point of view it forever!
Was using NYXL, smug and a bit beligerant about it too, noticed that the tuning stability, and crispy clean shimmery wonderfullness was unmatched on a fresh set. 3hrs per night, for 1 week, then the shimmer was gone, the shine faded away and sadness set in. NO OTHER coated string, gave me that one week of awesome. At the music store, i saw Elixr Polywebs, remembered Scott Grove, rolled my eyes and bought them. This was 1month ago, and they look, and sound incredible. Scott never mentiioned the slick, almost squeek free feel Polys provide. Thats a plus that makes up for the slight, very slight, almost insignificant loss of shimmery crispness that the NYXLs faithfully provided... for 1week. Scott Grove is right. The earth is round,. These are the facts lol. Rock On folks, Thanks Scott.
That's awesome. I'm glad that they did. As you know, not everything is for everyone, but these are just the ones that did the job for me and seem to be the "smartest" way of doing the coating job. Hey, welcome to the Elixir Polywebs! Be groovy and thanks for writing in about them. Cheers.
I should have known too, ive had the same set of elixirs on for just over a year on my acoustic. I do faithfully wipe them at the end of each use, i have absolutely no reason to change them. I believe Nyxls are treated even before they are wound.
I owe you a big one scott, the exlixir strings have made my so much happier playing guitar, I can get 5 plus months out of a set of string wich would otherwise just go dead in 5 minuets.
You're the man, Scott! I've been using the Polywebs ever since I saw your video recommending them. Favorite strings now, thank you!
I tried these and STILL have the same ones since 2014. Amazing product.
I tried them on your recommendation a few years ago and have used them exclusively ever since. I don't have corrosive sweat so they just sound 'new' for such a long time. I love them
I bought Elixir Polyweb strings at your recommendation Scott, they work great for me, excellent quality! Thank you for your great advice!
Me too. Tried them and used them ever since
I've been using Nano 10-46 for almost 10 years...not sure I have acid hands, but I get at least 5x the life out or em vs nickel. I used to use D.M. Blue Steels. How long are you guys getting out of Polys? Might have to give em a go if they last longer than Nano. Thanks!!
Rick Feith I'm still a fan of blue steels but polys are good too!
Thanks for recommending the strings They work exceptionally well
I also tried them, but due to my aggresive picking, after some time the coating started to peel off and boy it was a real mess. Maybe it's just me, I don't know, but I pick like crazy mf. Maybe I should adopt my playing style and technique, what do you guys think?
Charlie Sheen update: It only took 5 years for him to look like hell.
The Elixir Polywebs with the anti rust coat. Are the only strings I will use. I started using them when made the first video about them. so I gave them a try and I was hooked. I love them
Thanks for turning me on to the Polywebs. My favorite strings in regards of feel were Ernie Balls but they don't last compared to the Polys. I had sealed GHS Boomer strings rust in the pack whereas with the Elixirs they stay fresh. For durability and saving money; the Elixirs are the best!
Love the Polywebs. One year and counting
Started using elixers because of you!! Amazing strings. Cheers Scott.
About 4 or 5 years ago I started to learn guitar from our videos. At that time I saw your recommendation for these strings. Never had to change strigs since then. They still sound great! Thanks scott!
I got a set of polywebs last summer and I like them so much more than the nanowebs. They're gonna save me so much money. They don't seem to have that inevitable peeling issue that I had with the nanowebs.
It's crazy how some people have that problem where they have to change their strings. I've never had a problem with sweating while playing myself. I'm *SO* glad about that too. I've known a lot of people that have had that problem.
The other guitar player in our band uses Elixirs and *only* Elixirs. For whatever reason, I've never liked the way they "feel". *Especially* when they're brand new. I feel like my hands stick to them.
Use Nanowebs on my Acoustic and they are awesome and last forever! I will give the Polywebs a try next time I need new strings.
I took your advice about a year ago and bought the polywebs. They are even better than I thought; the coating is not visibly getting shredded at all. The only disadvantage is the that the slide notes are quite dead.
+metallitech Awesome. It is always great when you find something that works for you or at least works for you in a certain situation. I've never had any problems with slide notes at all, but that doesn't mean anything. They will react differently to everyone. Just kind of like an ex-wife. lol She'll probably actually GIVE IT UP to the NEXT guy. lol
I never had any coating fall off my nano webs. Maybe it's the extra acidity in your hands. I'll have to give the polywebs a try now.
I live in PA and used to practice in a non-climate controlled storage shed. My strings would always rust quickly from humidity and general dirt from my hands. I had a guitar store salesman tell me he had a new product that might work for me to prevent the rust. It was Elixir's. That was probably 20 years ago, and they didn't rust and I loved the slippery feel. That set of strings I played for probably years, mostly because they were on an Ibanez RG with a floating trem and I never had success with string changes on that guitar. I did notice the area over the pickups where the pick makes contact eventually started to "flake". But for many years I sang praises about Elixir's. They're a great product.
I play only with the Elixir Polyweb strings since I began to learn. Never even tried other types 'cause my first teacher already gave me that amazing short cut!
Good advice!
I don't sweat like Scott does but I do use Elixer Polywebs.
I fingerpick (never use a plectrum, well maybe a couple times a week)
For fingerpicking they are great feeling strings.... I hope the chemical coating doesn't give me finger cancer ;)
+Richard Kurbis (PAINFINGER) I do fingerpick too, and I agree with you.
Dear Dr. I been using DR Pure Blues on my Strat and love em. Agreed I do not play for hours at a time. One hour MAX a day due to a old back injury. I will give these Elixer Poly's a go when my two sets in hand are finished.
I do use Elixer Nanowebs on my Acoustic Guitars and love the way they sound and feel.
Many thanks, Dan in the UK
Dude, these strings saved my ass. I live in South East Asia now. Humidity like you have never seen, I was going through 2 sets sometimes a month( I don't play live anymore). Heavy rusting after one night f playing, I know I'm also an acidic guy. My wife bought a case of these baitches like a month and a half ago and I'm in shock not only are they made well they do not rust or corrode. Incredible, I can change strings every three or four months now. How do they not go dead after a while bud? Grea video, my wife loved it.
I have polywebs on for 2 hrs and the coating flaked off.... I am a finger picker. They flaked at the soundhole....is that normal?
I wonder is that water proof spray thing would help aluminum strings last longer too and if it would have an adverse effect on the strings' brightness...
Thanks for returning to you tube. Your experience is helpful.
Hi sir. I'd a talk with on facebook but couldn't get a more proper opinion.
It is that I own prs guitar . So I wanted to know which strings do u suggest I should use .
1. Ernie ball rps
2. D'addario exl110 regular gauge 10,13,17,26,36,46
3.D'addario exl110 bt balanced tension gauge 10,13.5,17,25,34,46
4. Elixir or rotosound
5. Dunlop or ghs strings
6. D'addario nyxl 10 regular gauge 10,13,17,26,36,46
7. D'addario nyxl balanced tension gauge 10,13.5,17,25,34,46 .
I'll go. With the gauge and strings that u suggest.
I recently paid 3x the price of regular strings for a pack of cleartone, suposedly to last at least 3x longer compared to uncoated strings. After 1 hour playing, the strings already started to show the black spots of oxidation. After 4 or 6 hours, the plain strings were almost completely dark. I'm about to switch to Elixirs, cause it seems that as I get older, my sweat is becoming really agressive on the strings. Have used the Plolyweb on my acoustic once, and they have last long enough.
Yeah, the Cleartones are horrible.
Dr. groovy, for poor man's coated strings, I will take a dryer sheet,and rub up and down, front & back of regular strings, and it works amazingly well, ➕ it keeps the strings prestin. if you are on a budget of course.
Scott, thank you for all your informative videos. I started using Elixir Polywebs after watching your previous video, about a year ago. My strings use to only last a couple days before going dead and would start rusting and breaking after a week or so. Switching to polywebs has made my guitar playing experiences so much more enjoyable. :-)
Scott,
I heard you say that you never break a string. I put the strings on my guitars and my 10 year old son's guitars. We both tend to break the high e. If you have the time would you please make a video about the best way to string guitars? We would appreciate it!
Great Video! I can sit ant watch you for hours and not get bored!
Hi Scott! I started using Elixir strings when I saw your videos some years back. I use Nanoweb 10-52s on my guitars tuned to D standard (because they don't make the Polywebs in that gauge), and yes, they start flaking where I pick, but are fine over the fingerboard. I still get way better mileage from those than regular strings. I occasionally try other brands of coated strings, but they have all been rubbish, just like you have told. The Curt Mangan coated strings and D'Addario EXPs both wen't black the first day I played them!
I just wan't to thank you for the hours of entertainment and information you have given us, and I hope you are getting better with your illnesses!
So how are the elixer string coated that nothing gets in between the windings? And what strings do you play for the twang?
hey scott its been a while since iv spoke to you I had to change my name to this one I use to be just another dummy that one isn't being used nowthe question I have is do polyweb acoustic strings feel the same as the electric strings do? iv got a 57 d28 without a truss rod of course. that feels like the neck and strings have sticky feeling drag to it its just a pain in the ass to play compaired to my old fender does HELP plz thx bud
Scott, I totally agree.... Been using Elixer's Polywebs since 2006 ( since I bought my first Taylor)....and I too use them on all my guitars, acoustic and electrics..... I have about 53 new sets.... stored in drawers.... when ever I come across them, whether it's a music store, or in a catalog, I buy a few sets, Poly's only.... and throw them in my drawers.... and it's true what you're saying, they don't loose their tone.... I find my self changing them only out of boredom... :-)
Elixir must owe you a lot! How many people have converted to Elixirs because of you? I honestly knew nothing about them until you. I personally love the sound and especially the feel. I don't set my acoustic action too low, I prefer a little height and thus love the polyweb feel and lack of string drag. It just works for me. The fact that they last so long (for me) is an added bonus and cost effective. I have one acoustic which I have to use 10s on and never had a string break. on the electric side I recently tried some d'adds that were given to me and they were dead mid set. I'd be lost without Elixir polys!
I use the Nano Web Taylor balanced set on my Taylor 314. For electrics the Ernie Ball coated with the Titanium winding at the ball end. Compared to Elixer electrics, I don't know. They last a LONG time even here on the Gulf Coast and sound and feel great. Just got a set of the NYXL's and the new Pardigm or whatever and may try them after the next gig when I will be due for a change.
Hey Scott, I'd like to know your opinion on them, if you have tried, Elixir's new Optiweb strings. I feel they offer a little bit of extra tension than a normal string would so 10's feel a little bit more like .0105 or .011 gauge strings. I like them, and so far they work great, but I'd like to hear your opinion. Thank you very much Scott.
I have had this problem with coated strings. Please check it out Scott.
Great Video you say you use the same gauge strings for all your electrics but what about shorter scale guitars for instance I just purchased a Peavey T-15 for a killer price with the original case with the amp built in, due to your recommendations on the old peavey stuff. And it is awesome!! Would you still recommend using the .009 super light gauge strings or something a little bit heavier? Sorry if this is a dumb question I am slowly getting back into guitar and learning through all your videos how guitarded I really am!! I also got a great deal on a PRS SE EG hardtail for $125 also a great guitar!!
Hi Scott, I hope you are doing okay. I also thank you for talking about these strings. I have high acidic skin and wipe out, or disintegrate watches (plastic AND metal) and used to change strings when I could afford them, usually once a month, and my old cheapie strings were rusted and dead after the first week. I have just changed the Elixir strings twice on my two guitars in the TWO YEARS you first talked about them, they last and stay crisp for so long. Thanks for the tip on the cords, too... just looked them up, I could use some spares for my gig rig.
I gave them a shot on your advice Scott, although I probably didn't have the problem that demanded needing coated strings to begin with of corrosive hands, and I've decided for me they're no bueno, my sharp fingernails shred the coating around the picking area in no time.
There are ways to do the pick scrape thing without fucking your windings up. If you tilt the pick forward, it's a lot less like a knife going around them. Also, I use a nylon pick.
How long would they hold up on a single guitar you play daily though? I can see them lasting as long as you say with that many guitars, but even without playing strangely and doing whatever you can to lengthen their life it's hard for me to see how they'd last longer than 6 months on a guitar you play daily. I ask because while I like what I play, I also have the same acidic sweat problem you have and have strings rust pretty quickly.
Hey Scott, I bought this strings off Ebay got 3 sets for the price of 2 now after a month being away and not playing my guitar they still sound amazing and still in tune! JUST CURIOUS what are your favorite Acoustic Guitar strings? mine was Dean Malarkey but they are hard to find in Europe any suggestions ?
? Hey Doc, have you tried Ernie Ball Paradigm? I know they were not out at the time of recording.
hi this is off the record completly but wanted to ask.is it worth holding on to a peavey vandenberg guitar signature 1st serie .will these guitars ever go up in value?or is not worth keeping them?
+Sam Sam Yeah, great axes and they are already going up. If it's all original, hang on to her.
Help Dr. Groovy! What strings do you run on your electric 12 string? I've looked all over for some Polys but they are nowhere to be found. So, what does the Good Doctor use, are you a Country Settler and do you have to settle for nanos?
hmm I use nanos and also find they last waaaaay longer than every other brand but I still have to change them every month or two as the high strings end up all rough and cruddy. perhaps I just need to clean them?
I just started using those and I love them! I haven't had any problems with them
Hi Scott,, Im sham I need ur expertise opinion on this.. I used elixir nano web super light. I don't have scientific data on this but me and my friends found out that our frets tend to worn out very very fast. What is ur opinion this Sir? By the way as u mentioned we really love its tone and last for a long time indeed. May be like Newton said every acrion there's an opposite reaction. Thank you and I love ur videos vry much.
Hi Scott, Love your videos... I know you hate the Nano's but after 20 odd years of using SIT, Deans, D.D's and Ernie Balls.... I tried Elixar Nanowebs in the last month and couldn't be happier. I Rust new strings within 45 mins the same as you... so far these nano's have lasted me 2 weeks of hours and hours of playing and they still look and sound new. (haven't noticed any coating stripping off yet) I will give the Poly's more of a chance one day but I'm not fond of that thick coating, it feels horrible and sounds like shizen.
LOL, I'm just happy that you were able to find SOMETHING that solved your acidic sweat problems. If the Nanos do it for you....that's way more than most people get. It's a beautiful thing when one part of the puzzle is solved and at least you don't have to keep hunting for the PERFECT STRINGS any longer. Cheers and congrats!
I've got Elixir Polyweb 10's on all my electric guitars, and I swear by them. Some guitars have had a set on for several years, and they still sound brand new. Scott, speaking of coated strings, what's your opinion of the DR Neon strings? Does that neon coating actually serve a purpose in terms of tone and string life, or are they purely cosmetic?
+6672rock Howdy! I can 100% say that the DR Neon and other colored/coated strings are the worst I've ever heard. They are SOMEHOW deader than flatwounds. It's truly amazing how bad they suck. I used to have a video on here where I compared them side by side with the Elixirs...well, that's still on here but hidden. But, it's still on my site. I honestly can't believe that anyone would ever buy a 2nd set of them.
+Groovy Music Lessons They covered my guitar with tiny pink pieces of coating!
Love your straight to the point attitude!!!! You are an amazing person and tell it like it is! I love your lessons or "rantings....if that what it is?" I listen to what you have to say about items.....something I may be thinking of buying ......Iwill check to see if you have ever covered whatever it is that I may be buying. I tried the coated strings and was a little impressed at first but noticed how they wore quickly and loose their tone,,,,,,,,,strumming area wears out first...........never use again! Keep up the good postings!!
also i dont thik they were elixers.....they were the ones that were like you say painted on and any color......i happened to try black ones......im oen minded so maybe the elixers are worth looking at.......try em before i knock em
I use Elixir's on every guitar except my number #1, the floating whammy breaks strings constantly. The only ones that don't break seem to be Rotosound's...
You got a burr or something sharp....check with a magnifying glass. A perfectly setup instrument will NOT break strings that aren't damaged or rusty.
got them on my telecaster for 4 months, the only complaint, the low E intonation is les than perfect, is time to change them I guess, but I will buy them again.
Do you wipe down your coated strings at all? Or do you just leave them alone? I'm curious as to how yours last so long.
Been on the nano's for 2 years and they're wonderful for me! Love you DNQ scott
I've been using elixir polywebs and they go dead about once a month of course I let in a few hours a day of practice and then I've gone to play a four hour show in a poorly air conditioned room. acoustic strings last me about a day so I've been using regular Ernie ball 10S heavy bottoms on my electrics, and the elixir polywebs on my acoustics. but the polywebs on my epiphone, peavey and fender strat just don't last so I deal with changing strings twice a month. it's more than likely due to my sweat acidity not mixing with the polymer very well. any how cheers!
Hi Scott, I thought that I would comment on the Elixir strings. I did take your advice some time ago. Yes I agree that for electric guitar, I find them very very good. They are very bright and crisp and keep their tone, which Ernie balls do not keep their brightness very long. But I am not a shredder or anything like that, that would scrape the coating off of the strings, but I did find just through normal playing that the coating did start to shred off of the string. I don't scrape the strings with a pick or anything like that. I do find that they retain their crisp bright sound for a very long time. They're definitely better than any other string that I have tried. In spite of the bit of shredding ,that I got off of a couple of strings , I still think they are great strings. I use the polyweb only. I have found that using the 9 to 42 gauge strings the best. I did use the 11 gauge for quite a while, but switched back to the 9's. As for lasting 10 to 15 years, no I don't think so for me personally . I still would also highly recommend these strings as you do. As for my Martin acoustic guitar, I don't like them. For some reason my Martin just doesn't ring with them. My Martin is a D-42 custom guitar. If it was set up for electric use, it probably would be fine. You're probably right about selling a lot of strings for Elixir. Thanks Michael Newell from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
hey Scott first off how are you doing buddy hope your well? just wondering if you try the daddario nyxl
i apolagize i was in a rush, so i ddint watch the whole video, they make these for acoustic right?, and for 12 string acoustic too?
Hello Scott! Thanks for all your instuctional videos.
Have you tried the new Elixir Optiwebs? How do they compare with the allmighty Polywebs?
Hey Scott, have you tried/or your thoughts on La Bella Vapor Shield treated strings? Not "spray" coated but a new approach to try and solve the same player issue. Thanks
+DIGTHEBIGRIGG1 Howdy! I'm glad you asked. I actually put a set on one of my MIDI axes that I use a LOT here when recording and have taken to a few gigs. So, they've been getting a REAL workout and are still holding up! I had a video posted here when I first put them on and people were just being their normal selves....lol So, I took it off of here. But yeah. I'm going to grab some more for different instruments as well to see just how well they hold up One bass player I played with for about 12 years used La Bella bass strings. He has nasty gunk going on as well. He would use them one night. They would be dead halfway through the night....pull them off and boil them for the next night and then do it one more time before tossing them in the trash. So, he had to go through at least 2 sets per week. He's been working at a music store in Nashville for quite a few years now. I'll have to see if he ever tried the Vapor Shields or not. It would be interesting on how they've worked out for him as well. So, I'll grab more and post the usage in a video on here. Cheers!
So just to be clear because I'm a little slow, the tone last along with the strings as well?
Yes. I used to have to put brand new strings on every 30 minutes on stage. Even my main axe that I used for 25 years has had the same set of the Elixir Polywebs on it for 15 years now and they sound identical to the day they were put on.
My preference is for Nanoweb 80-20 lights for acoustics. I find the Polywebs have a 'plasticky' tone, but Nanowebs weren't yet available when I first began using Elixirs some 20 years ago. I also have toxic sweat and they were an absolute godsend.
Scott, just curious, what's your opinion on D'Addario Balanced Tension strings? I love em. I tried them on one guitar and I now have them on all my guitars.
Good to see you doing well Scott. Great videos, I agree completely with you about the Polyweb strings. Have a great day mate.
I like elixirs. I prefer the nanoweb. They are just brighter and have more bite than the poly webs. I’ve never had an issue with peeling. If that ever happened I’d have gone back to non coated strings years ago.
Hi Scott !
I don't have skin acidity issues, BUT, I'm not "gentle" with my strings. I sometimes tend to like to punch them like a maniac. In the mid 90s, I visited a friend of mine, Mr Bert Wills, one greatest Blues player, in Houston, and during a discussion where we talked about guitars and string longevity, he introduced me to a brand new string brand at that time, the GoreTex Elixir strings. And actually, I've NEVER changed that brand of strings ever since.
One thing that you forgot to mention, and most certainly because you must have a more appropriate way of playing than mine, is that the GoreTex coating actually HOLDS the winding together around the core. What does that mean ? It means that, not only dirt gets between the winding to deaden the tone of wound strings, but also, with time, when you tend to "hit hard" on the wound strings, the winding will slowly and slightly get loose around the core, deadening the tone even more.
So, not only the GoreTex coating protects from oxidation, but it also prevents the winding to start loosening around the core of the wound strings.
Unfortunately, due to the way I play, I tend to need to change these Elixir strings ... but I manage to keep a stable response of the wound strings for about 3 weeks or so, instead of something like an hour (or even less sometimes) with regular uncoated strings.
I haven't tried any other coated brands of strings yet, so, I can't give any opinion about other supposedly coated strings brands. I only play Elixir strings. Period !
Hi Scott - what happened to the video where you explained your bass rig?
Polyweb is my favorite too I have yet to use another coated string like it. Does anyone know any other brand that comes close to the slickness of polyweb?
I use Nanowebs, mainly because I need different gauges, and they worked great for over a year. I just changed em and figure these will last another year. Oh, and I got them based on your recommendation, even though you disliked Nanowebs.
what is your opinion about optiweb elixir strings for electric guitar ? Are they similiar to polyweb elixirs ?
They're just nickel plated steel with an 'optiweb coating' and a 'natural feeling'. They cost twice as much as regular roundwound nickel plated steel strings. I'm very sceptic about them, but I will try them out.
Did you ever try Cleartone strings? I put a set of Monster Series ones on one of my Schecters like a year and a half ago and they sound just as good as the day I acquired them. They're coated but they don't 'feel' coated, they feel like your standard Steel strings. I do love Elixirs though, my only gripe with them is how they feel, they feel almost silken
Yeah, I wiped out the Cleartones in about half an hour. At least they have something for pretty much everybody these days.
Damn dude, well on the bright side, at least there's Elixirs!
I saw your original Elixir video and decided to give them a go since I also rust strings like crazy. Here I am about what, 8 years later? these are the only strings I use. I personally use the Nanowebs because they're available on the gauge that I prefer to use (10-52) and while it's true the coating flakes and don't last anywhere near the same the Poly's do, they still last for AGES. I used to have to replace strings every week or so and now I replace them every year or so and that's mainly because I need to clean up the fretboard lol. The nano's do flake a bit after some time but as long as you're not using coins as picks or pick sliding, they'll be fine.
All in all I've saved a massive amount of money by switching to these and I love to just be able to pick up a guitar I haven't used in months and have it playable immediately instead of having to change the strings. Every guitar in my cabinet is always ready to go. I love them.
Yes...I have the same ability to rust strings like you!..Always used D'Addario Nickel XLs but am gonna try these Elixir strings!....Thanks for all your fantastic videos. ..Cheers Frank THE MEMPHIS SUNS
I need a set of the bass polyweb strings scott, name your price.
So pleased your back.
I love Elixir strings on an acoustic ( Nanoweb). I have been playing for 51 years and the only strings you could get were Back Diamond with a wound G- Bluegrass only.
Have you tried Cleartones? They say they are treated not coated do you know the difference?
By the way, I bought Elixer's, thanks!
+jim leiss Yeah, people ask me about the Cleartones all the time. I killed them in half an hour like all the others. Others results may vary.
+Groovy Music Lessons Thanks Scott. I hope you are feeling better!
hey scott....where in Indiana are you from ? I've grown up near Valparaiso, Chesterton area.
Tried Elixir only recently and will never go back. I always thought it was a scam to get more money, but it is real. They are great.
I'm playing stringed instrument for 15years now, I never got any sweating issue... unless this summer. On electric guitar with ernie ball, no problems. But on acoustic guitars with D'addario, same as you. Never got the problem before. I tried Phosphore Bronze strings, even worst, my string and my finger started to taint green ! Dispite I felt like Hulk, I was really pissed off. I tried Thomastik acoustic strings, wasted my money. Then I discovered by accident nanoweb strings (they were mounted on a new guitar I bought), and WOW, they remain brilliant for days as before. I then came accross your vidéo where I discovered more about those. Will try the polyweb next time.
Dude! Changed every set!? I just cannot even fathom what you just said. I don't change mine until they start to sound a little muffled, which is about a month, with about 15 hours a week of play.
I left mine on one time for 6 months on a guitar. Still didn't rust.
I do rub a very light coating of oil on my fingertips before I play so I can slide easier. Hehe. Lube.
You have changed my mind about Elixer polywebs. I had no idea. I imagine they also make bass guitar gauges.
Yeah, it's a bitch of a thing to have to do. There are TONS of us out there. Many bass players that have to do it as well. Then you get the freaks like Brian Setzer who needs (in his head) new tubes in his amp every single show. Whatever works for him. But yeah....these strings have been just a true God send. I spent my whole career spending half my money on strings and ALLLLLL of my time every single break changing strings. If I wanted to get any break time, I had to bring 6 guitars to a gig, each with new strings on them and just play a different one each set. I'm just glad that such things exist now for those of us who really NEED them. I can't imagine setting up each new guitar I get and then the strings rusting off of my guitar in about a day. It's nice to reach up, grab any guitar and the strings will be 100% fresh sounding, even with TONS of water being poured on them with the humidifiers going full blast as well here in the desert. Between where I live and my chemical make up, the conditions are PERFECT for testing these coated strings out. It takes no time to tell what works and what is hype.
I've had them on over a year and they still sound great only thing is if broken 3 e strings
+Ally Cat :3 90% of the time, that will be caused by a burr on your bridge saddle or a sharp edge on the tuner hole. Depends on what end it is breaking on. I'm sure that it's not breaking in the middle.
Now they are trying to push their ''Optiweb'' coating. Have you tried those Scott? I cant find mediums in the polyweb, just in their Optiweb and Nanos.
Hey there Yeah, I'm going to get a set of them just to laugh at them and post a FAIL review on the OPTIWEB. Whenever I need sets of POLYWEB string sets that are NOT available, I always just order my own sets by putting together sets here: www.juststrings.com/electricpolywebcoatingelixirguitarsinglestrings.html NOBODY thinks to do it. They sell all strings individually. So, I can put together 7 string sets and sets for all of my bluegrass instruments as well. So, you can go toss any set together that you want. Cheers.
Groovy Music Lessons hey scott, are you working on the optiweb review? i'm really curious of what you have to say, i have tried polywebs and i love them but only on acoustics though.
I have them on a guitar now.....going to put them through their paces. So, I'll do a video after I actually play the guitar. lol
My plain high strings still rust with Polywrbs after awhile. They're even anti-rust plain steels.
Hi Scott was wondering what you thought of cleartone strings?
I took your recommendation on the Elixirs about 2-3 years ago and haven't gone back since. I had a set on my Gibson SG Standard for about 14 months. I only changed them because I thought I ought to at the time. I use Elixir strings on all of my guitars, both electric and acoustic.
AWESOME! It's simply cool when you can find the RIGHT string for you. The Elixir folks started something great for sure. They just now put out a 3rd type of coating that I haven't tried yet. So, I have to order some to try and review. Thanks for letting me know that they worked out for your sweat type. That's too cool!
it might be a dumb question, but could particularly acid sweat corrode your guitar's paint work?
It will toast NITRO finishes, but not the others.
Rory Gallagher
would you hire someone to do it for you?
Ok Scott, I saw your video about 6 months ago. I play a Fender Stratocaster and was changing strings every 2 weeks or so with regular 5- 7$ strings. I switched both of my guitars over to Elixer. I love the tone* I love the minimal finger noise and above all else it is not the extra life I get that I love but the way my fingers have changed. I used to have really bad calluses on my fingertips because of my manic playing. I live at Oregon State Hospital and am committed. I play lead guitar and sing in the Oregon State Hospital Patient Band. My band mates noticed the increased tone too. My fingertips no longer peel off, they have feeling again! On Saturday I will change my electric strings for the 3rd time since I saw your video 6 months ago, that is on average 2 months per set! That is 6 times as long as the cheap shitty non coated ones gave me. (I Use nano webb, tried poly webb on my acoustic and they were good except the coating has splintered off around the 2nd and 3rd fret on the low E and the A and D strings after 2 months.)Check out on youtube (Oregon State Hospital Band)Thanks Scott!
+Cody Seth Crawford So cool to know that someone else was saved by these things too. That's what it's all about. There are PLENTY of us who simply won't be willing to give these up. Others, they don't dig them and that's fine. You're right about saving those fingers. It is great to have feeling in them and I think I can make out the leftovers of fingerprints under there somewhere. I never could find them before. lol I'm going to go hunt you guys up right now. I appreciate you writing in. Everybody thinks I have a "deal" with Elixir, nope.....it is simply a BIG DEAL that they are just there to be had for those who simply need them. Nobody "gets it" unless they have battery acid for sweat. lol CHEERS!
+Groovy Music Lessons P.S...I must thank you Scott for teaching me how to set up my guitar/ intonation and have helped teach other people here at OSH how to tune and take care of their guitars,I have become very good at fixing my gear and taking care of it with almost no tools available to me. The other day one of the guys got his guitar back after being suicidal a while back so the staff took his guitar strings off, for over 2 months no strings were on it. I had to shimmy the neck since we had no allen wrench to fit the truss rod. Your videos on You-tube made my music life much easier. I started player here 2 years ago, and got you-tube like one year ago when we got computers installed in minimum security bridge 2 unit. The internet made my ability to get the chords and notes down super fast and easy.Now that I have your channel and also thanks to other good youtube teachers I have learned more than I thought I could in the time frame, I have high functioning Autism or whatever bullshit they want to call it that is convenient for them that year.What I now have from playing guitar; to finally match my harmonica ability is priceless to me! If I had been able to play like I can now back when I lived in Panama 6 years ago I would probably had never have left and would had not been in need of money...maybe. Thank you once again Scott, you are a really great teacher and a genuine humanHave a great Christmas! -Cody Seth Crawfordcodylockedupcrawford@gmail.com
Hey Dr. Groovy, I know you have probably answered that a million times, but how many times do you play your guitars, I know some you like more and some you just don't like(Paul Stanley's LP for example), but I'm curious because you had a lot of guitars over the years, and you like to sell them too.
Thanks anyways, always nice to see your videos!
Do you wipe the strings down after playing with the polywebs or just leave em?
I actually go under the High E and B strings with my string rag and just give all the others a single snap, kind of like a bass player pops his strings playing funk. That "POP" method works pretty well with non coated strings too. Do it about half a dozen times per wound string and it pops all the chunks of dirt out from between the windings of your stings. Just pull them straight away from the fingerboard and let the sting go, smacking the frets. It's a cool trick that brings them back to life real quick. If you WIPE the wound strings down, you are just spearing the grime into the windings and smoothing it all out. So, wipe the plain strings and snap the wound ones with no wiping.
Thanks for the fast reply, Ill definitely give this a try!!
Elixir sure does work! But my problem with the nano web is that they roll off under my finger when I bend. Do those Poly web do the same?
Great video btw!
Yeah, the Nanowebs suck. The Polywebs don't have any of those problems. Many thanks.
T%hanks for explaining that further Dr. Groovy