Guitar & Folk Strings

Browse our wide selection of guitar string packs and single guitar strings. We also carry ukelele strings!

Unsure of where to buy strings for guitars and ukuleles? West Music brings you guitar strings and ukelele strings from top manufacturers like Aquila, CF Martin, Ernie Ball, and more. What’s more, we understand that your choice of guitar or ukulele strings needs to accommodate your skill levels and sound preferences. For instance, if you’re searching for new acoustic guitar strings and like a challenge, take a look at a heavier string gauge. For beginners, lighter gauge versions will bring the best comfort. At West Music, we've curated a premium selection of electric, acoustic, and classical guitar string packs, offered in popular materials like nylon, nylgut, and silver-plated copper. Additionally, our ukulele strings include soprano and baritone options, as well as everything in between. Order online with West Music to produce sweet jazz, captivating classical, or uplifting island melodies.

Guitar and Folk Instrument Strings

Guitar and folk instrument strings play a critical role in shaping the sound and playability of an instrument. From the warm tones of nylon ukulele strings to the bright resonance of bronze guitar strings and the innovative designs of Aquila ukulele strings, musicians have many string options to enhance their musical expression. Whether you're a classical guitarist, a ukulele enthusiast, or an acoustic fan, understanding the differences between nylon, bronze, Aquila, acoustic guitar, and steel guitar strings can help you decide the best strings for your instrument and playing style.

Nylon Strings for Ukulele

Nylon strings are the traditional ukulele choice, offering a soft feel and a warm, mellow tone that complements the ukulele's character. Nylon strings are easier on the fingers, making them an excellent choice for beginners and those who prefer a gentler playing experience. Their smooth texture and flexibility allow for a wide dynamic range and expressive playing.

Aquila Ukulele Strings

Aquila ukulele strings have gained popularity for their innovative Nylgut material, which combines the best qualities of nylon and gut strings. These strings offer a rich, full sound with excellent intonation and durability. Aquila strings are available in various tensions and for different sizes of ukuleles, providing options for players to find the perfect match for their instrument and playing style.

Acoustic Guitar Strings

Acoustic guitar strings are designed to bring out the natural sound of the guitar's wooden body, offering a range of tonal possibilities from bright and sparkling to deep and resonant. They come in various materials, including phosphor bronze, which offers a warmer tone, and 80/20 bronze, known for its bright, articulate sound. The strings' gauge, or thickness, also affects playability and tone, with lighter gauges providing easier playability and brighter tones, while heavier gauges offer more volume and sustain.

Bronze Guitar Strings

Bronze guitar strings, made from a blend of copper and tin, are known for their bright, clear tone. They are a popular choice for acoustic guitars, providing a crisp sound that projects well, making them ideal for recording and live performance. Bronze strings tend to age more quickly than other materials, developing a warmer, mellower tone over time, which some players find desirable.

Steel Guitar Strings

Steel guitar strings are the standard for electric and acoustic guitars, delivering a loud, clear tone with plenty of sustain. Steel strings are more rigid than nylon, requiring more finger pressure to fret notes, but they also provide a sharper attack and more sustain, which is ideal for genres like rock, blues, and country. The steel core is often wrapped with nickel, stainless steel, or other materials to vary the tone and feel.

Choosing the Right Strings for Your Instrument

Choosing the right strings for your guitar or ukulele can significantly affect your instrument's sound, playability, and overall enjoyment. Whether you prefer the warm tones of nylon ukulele strings, the bright clarity of bronze guitar strings, the innovative durability of Aquila ukulele strings, the expressive versatility of acoustic guitar strings, or the loud sustain of steel guitar strings, there's a set of strings that's perfect for your musical needs and preferences. Experimenting with different types and gauges of strings can help you discover the ideal sound and feel for your playing style, enhancing your musical expression and enjoyment.