When it comes to guitar strings, it's definitely not a case of "one size fits all". Different guitar strings are more suited to some styles and completely inappropriate for others. No matter how hard you try, playing Lamb of God songs on nylon strings just isn't going to work.
So, what kind of strings do you need for heavy metal? As a general rule of thumb, the harder you play, the heavier strings you'll need. Heavier strings give you a louder sound and can withstand heavier strumming better than lighter gauge strings, without going out of tune. Heavier strings also give you a full bass sound, which is something you need for playing Heavy Metal.
The downside to using heavier strings is that they're a bit more difficult to use when playing lead. Heavier strings don't bend as well and are more tiring for your wrist, especially if you're just starting out, or have to play for a long session.
One of the best options is to use a hybrid set of strings. A Hybrid pack usually have heavier bass and lighter top strings. This keeps power chords sounding full on the bottom end, while the lighter top 3 make it easier to play lead.
So, what kind of strings do you need for heavy metal? As a general rule of thumb, the harder you play, the heavier strings you'll need. Heavier strings give you a louder sound and can withstand heavier strumming better than lighter gauge strings, without going out of tune. Heavier strings also give you a full bass sound, which is something you need for playing Heavy Metal.
The downside to using heavier strings is that they're a bit more difficult to use when playing lead. Heavier strings don't bend as well and are more tiring for your wrist, especially if you're just starting out, or have to play for a long session.
One of the best options is to use a hybrid set of strings. A Hybrid pack usually have heavier bass and lighter top strings. This keeps power chords sounding full on the bottom end, while the lighter top 3 make it easier to play lead.
Another advantage of using a heavier set, or heavier low end strings, is that they respond much better to dropped tuning. Dropped D tuning is where you tune down the Low E to a D instead of E and has been one of the more common tunings in Heavy Metal. Heavier strings also do a better job of maintaining their tone when you drop the pitch.
The 11 gauge strings are probably the best place to start if you are just starting to look into this. When you hear "11 gauge" that means the high E string is.011" in diameter.
Some popular strings for Heavy Metal guitarists are the D'Addario EXL140 XL, Rotosound Roto Blues, and Dunlop Zakk Wylde. You will find a larger selection at your local music store or any online shop that sells guitar strings.
There's some variation, but most heavy metal guitarists prefer something in the range of 10s to 12s. As always, though, you should experiment with different kinds of strings and find what works best for you.
The variation doesn't end there, your pick has influence over the final amplified sound too. Experimentation with different configurations is a rewarding process, and it brings something unique to your playing early on.
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