Electric Guitar Strings

What strings should I use for open tunings like Open G, Open D and DADGAD?

Quick Answer

Open G (D G D G B D), Open D (D A D F# A D) and DADGAD all lower some strings by a whole step, which loosens them. Your normal set usually works, but a heavy-bottom set keeps the lowered strings tighter. On electric, try .010–.052 (S1052); on acoustic, .012–.056 (P1256 Bluegrass).

Here is what changes from standard tuning (E A D G B E), low to high:

  • Open G (D G D G B D): 6th, 5th and 1st strings down a whole step.
  • Open D (D A D F# A D): 6th, 2nd and 1st down a whole step, 3rd down a half step.
  • DADGAD: 6th, 2nd and 1st down a whole step.

Tuning a string a whole step down loosens it noticeably. That's why the lowered strings can feel floppy or buzz. Retune gradually, and recheck intonation if you keep the guitar in one open tuning. How to choose:

  • Switching between standard and open tunings: keep your usual set, or move to a heavy-bottom set so the low strings stay firm.
  • Staying in one open tuning, or playing slide: go up a gauge across the set.
  • A single loose string: replace just that string with a heavier single.

S.I.T. options:

  • S1052 Heavy Bottom (.010–.052) or S1150 Medium Light (.011–.050) in Power Wound Nickel
  • P1256 Bluegrass (.012–.056) or P1152 Custom Light (.011–.052) in Phosphor Bronze for acoustic

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