Built for the unique tunings and constant tension changes of pedal steel, with dependable feel, response, and tuning stability.
Designed for lap steel and non-pedal steel players, with balanced tension, smooth bar response, and sets for a variety of tunings.
Built for clear attack, strong projection, and responsive feel, with string sets designed for a variety of banjo styles and setups.
Designed for balanced tension, clear projection, and consistent response across paired courses, with options for different playing styles and preferences.
Smooth, comfortable nylon strings designed for clear tone and consistent response, with sets available for different ukulele sizes and tunings.
Designed for the paired courses and distinctive tunings of the bouzouki, with balanced tension, clear projection, and dependable response.
Built for dulcimer players who need clear, consistent response, with loop-end strings designed specifically for traditional dulcimer setups.
Specialty strings designed for the distinctive tuning and response of the vihuela, with sets developed specifically for this traditional instrument.
Loop-end strings designed specifically for bajo sexto and bajo quinto, with nickel and phosphor bronze options for different tonal preferences.
WHY S.I.T. STRINGS
S.I.T. stands for Stay In Tune. Since 1980, we've manufactured strings in Akron, Ohio, with a focus on tuning stability, consistent performance, and quality players can depend on.
SINCE 1980
More than four decades of string-making experience.
MADE IN THE USA
S.I.T. Strings are proudly manufactured in Akron, Ohio.
STRING GUIDE
Specialty instruments often require strings designed around specific tunings, scale lengths, string counts, and end styles. Choosing the right set starts with matching the strings to your instrument and the tuning you use.
01 INSTRUMENT
Pedal steel, lap steel, banjo, mandolin, ukulele, bouzouki, dulcimer, vihuela, and bajo sexto/quinto each have different string requirements. Always choose a set designed for your specific instrument before comparing gauges or materials.
02 TUNING
Many specialty instruments use multiple tunings, and the correct gauges can change depending on the notes the strings need to reach. Pedal steel and lap steel are especially tuning-dependent, so check the intended tuning when selecting a set.
03 CONSTRUCTION
Specialty strings can use different end constructions and combinations of plain and wound strings. Some instruments require loop ends, while others use ball ends or instrument-specific configurations. Make sure the set matches your instrument's hardware.
04 GAUGE
String gauge affects tension, feel, response, and tuning stability. The right gauge depends on the instrument, scale length, tuning, and playing style rather than simply choosing a lighter or heavier set.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Quick answers to common questions about choosing strings for specialty and traditional instruments.
Start by matching the string set to your specific instrument, then check the tuning, number of strings, scale length, and required end style. Specialty instruments can vary significantly, so a set designed for one instrument or tuning may not be appropriate for another.
Choose a pedal steel set designed for your specific tuning and string count. Pedal steel strings need gauges that provide the proper tension while handling the repeated pitch changes created by the pedals and knee levers. S.I.T. offers pedal steel sets for several common tunings and configurations.
Pedal steel strings are selected to work with the changing string tension created by pedals and knee levers. Lap steel strings do not undergo those mechanical pitch changes and are typically chosen around the instrument's scale length, tuning, and desired feel. Always use gauges appropriate for your specific tuning.
It depends on how your instrument is designed to anchor the strings. Some specialty instruments require loop end strings, while others use ball ends. Check your current strings, bridge or tailpiece, or the instrument manufacturer's specifications before choosing a set.
Start with the instrument, scale length, and tuning. Lighter gauges generally produce less tension, while heavier gauges produce more tension at the same scale length and pitch. Because specialty instruments use many different tunings and configurations, there isn't one gauge that works for every instrument.
Sometimes individual guitar strings may have the correct gauge and construction, but a standard guitar set is not necessarily appropriate for a specialty instrument. Differences in tuning, scale length, string count, tension, and end style can all affect compatibility. A set designed for the instrument is usually the best starting point.
FIND YOUR STRINGS
Shop S.I.T. Strings online or find an authorized dealer near you.
