Dobro Strings

[Bill Groner]

I recently bought a Recording King Dobro used off eBay. It was exactly as described (mint condition)and I am very happy with it.
I purchased a set of D'Addario Phosphor Bronze Strings EJ42. I don't know what strings were on it when I received it, but they sound fine. I just wanted a spare set if I broke one. I am new at playing Dobro and was curious what strings some of you think are good options.

[Joe Burke]

I like those D’Addario strings that you bought. I don’t think I’ve purchased a set of squareneck dobro strings that I haven’t liked.

[Jerry Overstreet]

EJ42 is a very popular set among squareneck reso players, possibly the most used.

There's also Beard Special 28s, GHS, John Pearse. Take a look at elderly.com for some variety.

I would advise you to stay with standard phosphor bronze strings and standard gauges for the best acoustic sound and playability.

Have fun with your new resonator guitar.

[Howard Parker]

EJ 42's are fine.

Just wanted to point out that you're within driving distance of one of the finest dobro teachers on the planet, Jimmy Heffernan.

h

[Lee Rider]

I've been using D'Addario NB1656 strings for the last couple of years. I chunk pretty hard on the 3rd string and would wear out a phosphor bronze string in a few hours. I was talking to Trey Hensley about strings one time and he recommended the nickle bronze. With phosphor bronze Trey would have to change them at the break of every show but the nickle bronze last him a WHOLE SHOW! They sound great and last a long time. One other thing I have always done is buy separate .020 strings and use one as the second string and use the .018 as the high D. Better tone but harder to choke (which I don't do much).

[Greg Forsyth]

Robb Ickes also started using the NB1356 D Addario's upon Trey Hensley's advice.

[Howard Parker]

You've just started on your dobro journey so I wouldn't sweat the strings just yet. You're not gonna wear them out quickly. Just buy any decent set. They will all last you for a while at this juncture.

h

[Steve Lipsey]

IMHO, Those EJ42s are the universally used strings...but be aware that they tend to lose their brightness very quickly, and are best used by people who have an endorsement that gives them free strings and a roadie to change them for every gig...there are much longer lasting strings available now from all the major string companies...maybe a hair less bright than totally fresh EJ-42s but retain their tone for a long time..

[Bill Groner]

Thank you guys for all the advice on the strings. I'm sure I will be fine with what I bought.

[Glenn Wilde]

I put the Beard strings on my model 45 and they sound great and are holding up well, still have some zing to them, not too much though.