Pedal steel players tend to pay close attention to string gauges because even small changes can affect pedal feel, tuning stability, and how the guitar responds overall.
Unlike standard guitar, pedal steel strings are constantly being pulled and released through pedals and knee levers. Because of that, gauge balance matters a lot more than many beginners realize.
The right setup can improve:
- tuning stability
- pedal feel
- sustain
- string separation
- pitch return
- overall comfort while playing
This guide breaks down common pedal steel string gauges for E9, C6, and universal setups, along with why different players prefer different configurations.
If you are still learning the basics of pedal steel setup, start here first.
Why String Gauges Matter on Pedal Steel
On a standard guitar, changing one string gauge slightly may only affect feel.
On pedal steel, changing gauges can affect:
- pedal stiffness
- tuning stability
- pedal travel
- how accurately notes return to pitch
- overall balance across the neck
That is why most pedal steel players stick with carefully balanced sets once they find what works for them.
A lot of tuning and setup problems players experience actually come back to string balance rather than mechanical issues with the guitar itself.
Because pedal steel strings operate under constant tension changes, balancing gauges correctly is especially important during string design.
Understanding Plain and Wound Strings
In the charts below:
- P = plain string
- W = wound string
The lower strings on pedal steel are typically wound strings because they provide better tension balance and fuller low-end response without becoming excessively thick or stiff.
Plain strings are often used on higher strings and certain pedal-change strings because they respond faster and bend more easily under pedal movement.
Standard E9 Pedal Steel String Gauges
E9 is the most common pedal steel tuning, especially in country music.
Most E9 sets are designed to balance smooth pedal action with stable tuning and clear note separation.
A common modern E9 setup looks like this:
| String | Gauge |
|---|---|
| 1 | .012 |
| 2 | .015 |
| 3 | .011 |
| 4 | .014 |
| 5 | .018 |
| 6 | .022P |
| 7 | .026W |
| 8 | .030W |
| 9 | .034W |
| 10 | .038W |
This style of setup is used in sets like the S.I.T. E9 Nickel, E9 Stainless, Buddy Emmons E9 Nickel, and Buddy Emmons E9 Stainless sets.
If you want to learn more about how these strings are arranged within the tuning itself, you can follow our:
E9 Pedal Steel Tuning Chart (Notes, String Gauges & Setup Guide)
Why the .011 Third String Matters
One of the most common breakage points on pedal steel is the .011 third string on E9 setups.
That string is constantly being raised and lowered through pedal movement, which puts a lot of stress on it over time.
Because of that, some traditional sets, including the S.I.T. Buddy Emmons E9 sets, include an extra .011 string in the package.
This is a very common issue among pedal steel players, especially players who perform regularly or use aggressive pedal movement.
Plain vs Wound 6th Strings
You will often see E9 setups using a plain .022P 6th string rather than a wound string.
Many players prefer this because it gives:
- quicker pedal response
- smoother bends
- more consistent feel with pedal movement
Some players do prefer wound 6th strings for a slightly fuller tone, but plain 6th strings remain very common on traditional E9 setups.
Sho-Bud Style E9 Gauges
Some traditional Sho-Bud-style setups use a slightly heavier first string.
Example Sho-Bud E9 gauges:
| String | Gauge |
|---|---|
| 1 | .013 |
| 2 | .015 |
| 3 | .011 |
| 4 | .014 |
| 5 | .017 |
| 6 | .020P |
| 7 | .026W |
| 8 | .030W |
| 9 | .034W |
| 10 | .036W |
Some players prefer the slightly heavier .013 first string because it feels a little firmer under the bar and can produce a fuller top-end tone, especially on older-style setups.
The lighter lower strings can also create a slightly different pedal feel compared to more modern E9 setups.
Standard C6 Pedal Steel String Gauges
C6 setups are designed more around chord voicings, western swing, jazz playing, and fuller harmonic movement.
Because of that, C6 sets typically use heavier gauges than E9.
A common C6 setup looks like this:
| String | Gauge |
|---|---|
| 1 | .017 |
| 2 | .014 |
| 3 | .018 |
| 4 | .022P |
| 5 | .024W |
| 6 | .030W |
| 7 | .036W |
| 8 | .042W |
| 9 | .054W |
| 10 | .068W |
The heavier lower gauges help provide:
- fuller chord response
- better note separation
- stable lower tunings
- balanced tension across wider voicings
One thing beginners often notice immediately is how much heavier C6 feels compared to E9, especially on the lower strings.
If you want to better understand how the C6 tuning is laid out, check out our:
C6 Pedal Steel Tuning Chart (Notes, String Gauges & Setup Guide)
Universal 12-String Pedal Steel Gauges
Universal 12-string setups combine elements of both E9 and C6 tunings into a single neck.
Because of that, these sets need to maintain balanced tension across a much wider range of notes.
A common universal setup looks like this:
| String | Gauge |
|---|---|
| 1 | .013 |
| 2 | .015 |
| 3 | .011 |
| 4 | .014 |
| 5 | .017 |
| 6 | .020P |
| 7 | .026W |
| 8 | .030W |
| 9 | .036W |
| 10 | .042W |
| 11 | .054W |
| 12 | .068W |
Universal setups are popular with players who want both E9 and C6 capabilities without switching necks.
Because these sets cover such a wide range, balanced tension becomes even more important.
Nickel vs Stainless Pedal Steel Strings
One of the biggest differences players notice is the feel and tone between nickel and stainless steel strings.
Nickel Pedal Steel Strings
Nickel strings are often preferred for:
- warmer tone
- smoother highs
- traditional pedal steel sound
- softer feel
Many classic pedal steel recordings were made using nickel strings.
Stainless Steel Pedal Steel Strings
Stainless strings are often preferred for:
- added brightness
- stronger attack
- more note separation
- increased clarity
- longer-lasting brightness
Players who want more definition and projection often prefer stainless steel sets.
Neither is necessarily better. A lot of it comes down to feel and the type of tone you prefer.
Some players like the smoother, warmer response of nickel, while others prefer the added clarity and attack of stainless steel.
Silencer Semi-Flat Pedal Steel Strings
S.I.T. Silencer pedal steel strings use a semi-flat winding designed to reduce bar noise while maintaining clarity and sustain.
These sets are popular with players looking for:
- smoother feel
- reduced string noise
- quieter slides
- controlled top end
Silencer sets maintain a traditional pedal steel response while offering a different feel under the bar.
Should Beginners Experiment with Gauges?
Most beginners are usually better off starting with a standard balanced setup before experimenting with custom gauges.
Changing one gauge can affect pedal feel, tuning stability, and how the guitar responds overall.
Once you become more comfortable with the instrument, small adjustments can help fine-tune the feel for your playing style.
One thing you will notice with pedal steel players is that many stick with the same gauges for years once they find a setup that feels balanced and reliable.
Common Pedal Steel Gauge Problems
Strings Keep Breaking
The .011 third string is the most common breakage point on E9 setups.
This is usually caused by:
- constant pedal movement
- worn strings
- sharp contact points
- over-tightening during installation
Pedals Feel Too Stiff
If pedals feel unusually stiff, the gauges may be too heavy for the setup or tuning.
Balanced sets help keep pedal movement smooth and predictable.
Strings Will Not Return to Pitch
This is often caused by:
- old strings
- incorrect gauges
- uneven tension
- friction at contact points
A fresh, properly balanced set often solves the issue.
If you are troubleshooting tuning or pedal feel issues, our setup guide covers some of the most common causes.
How to Set Up a Pedal Steel Guitar (Beginner Guide)
Final Thoughts
Pedal steel string gauges affect far more than just tension.
They influence:
- pedal response
- tuning stability
- feel
- sustain
- overall control of the instrument
That is why most experienced pedal steel players spend time finding a setup that feels balanced and consistent for their style of playing.
Once you find the right gauges, the instrument becomes much more comfortable and predictable.
If you are still learning the basics of pedal steel tuning and setup, these guides can help:
Best Strings for Pedal Steel Guitar
Frequently Asked Questions
What gauges are used for E9 pedal steel?
Most E9 setups use gauges ranging from approximately .011 or .012 on the highest strings up to around .038 on the lowest string.
Different setups may vary slightly depending on player preference and pedal feel.
Why does the .011 third string break so often?
The .011 third string on E9 setups experiences constant tension changes from pedal movement, making it one of the most common breakage points on pedal steel guitars.
That is why some sets, including the S.I.T. Buddy Emmons E9 sets, include an extra .011 string.
What does “P” and “W” mean on pedal steel strings?
“P” stands for plain string, while “W” stands for wound string.
Plain strings are smoother and more flexible under pedal movement, while wound strings provide fuller tone and better tension balance on lower notes.
Why are C6 pedal steel strings heavier than E9?
C6 tunings are designed around fuller chord voicings and lower note ranges, which require heavier gauges to maintain proper tension and stability.
Should beginners experiment with custom gauges?
Most beginners are better off starting with a standard balanced setup before experimenting with custom gauges.
Small gauge changes can affect pedal feel, tuning stability, and overall response.
Are stainless pedal steel strings brighter than nickel?
Yes. Stainless steel strings typically produce a brighter tone with more attack and note definition, while nickel strings usually sound warmer and smoother.
How often should pedal steel strings be changed?
It depends on how often you play, but pedal steel strings usually wear faster than standard guitar strings because of constant pedal movement and tension changes.
If tuning becomes unstable or strings stop returning cleanly to pitch, it is usually time for a fresh set.
