StahlSaiten

Stahlsaiten, or steel strings, are metal strings used on fretted string instruments such as guitars and basses. They differ from gut or nylon strings in material and tension, producing brighter timbres and greater projection. Steel strings became standard for modern steel-string guitars and most electric instruments during the 20th century.

Most Stahlsaiten consist of a steel core wire that may be round or hexagonal, around which a winding of other metal is applied. Electric guitar strings typically use a nickel- or stainless-steel wrap around a steel core, and come in gauges from light to heavy. Acoustic steel-string strings use a long steel core with a bronze, phosphor bronze, or phosphor bronze-wrapped wire as the wind, affecting warmth and brightness. Bass strings are also steel-based, often with nickel or stainless steel windings.

Strings are chosen based on instrument type, playing style, and tension tolerance. Gauge affects feel and tone; lighter gauges are easier to press but can break sooner, while heavier gauges yield more volume and sustain but require more tension and setup adjustments. String tension interacts with scale length and truss rod setup, influencing intonation and neck relief.

To extend life, wipe strings after playing to remove oils; replace regularly depending on playing style and environment. The development of Stahlsaiten traces to the early 20th century as an alternative to gut strings, enabling higher tension and greater durability for amplified instruments. Major manufacturers include D’Addario, Ernie Ball, and Elixir, offering various alloys and coatings to balance tone and longevity.