Flamenco Strings & Tension

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stefmikhail

Posts: 1
Joined: May 10 2021

Flamenco Strings & Tension

Hola!
I am new to the Flamenco/Nylon string guitars in general and although I have played Steel String and several other instruments for over 25 years, there is a lot I still need to learn regarding the Flamenco.

My question regarding string tension is indeed related to how much tension my guitar can handle: It is an Almansa 413 Flamenco which I'm very much enjoying but wish to try different sets of specifically Flamenco strings. It would seem that many that are recommended have up to a total tension of 49kg/108lbs. My concern is that the Almansa 413 Flamenco may not be able to structurally handle this level of tension. I'm having trouble getting in touch with Almansa so I was hoping someone here could help me out.

FYI The Scale Length of the Almansa 413 Flamenco is 65cm/25.6"

I appreciate any advice anyone can give me, and also if you have Flamenco strings of heavier and more equal tension then I would be very interested. Specifically the sets that attempt to create equal “feel” across the strings. But what do you use and why? Thanks!

Stefan

REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date May 11 2021 14:05:44

Echi

Posts: 1132
Joined: Jan. 11 2013

RE: Flamenco Strings & Tension (in reply to stefmikhail)

It can easily accept hard tension strings.
Usually serially made guitars are overbuilt to a certain extent, which makes them as though as a classical guitar.

Anyway, the main aspect (imho) is to balance the natural top bounciness (in Spain they call it pulsacion) with the right string tension, so that the sound breaks up in the right way when you do a rasgueado or play the guitar forcefully.

Your parameters for that are the string action and the string tension.
Medium tension strings is the common choice.

REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date May 11 2021 14:23:21

agujetas

Posts: 60
Joined: Mar. 9 2021

RE: Flamenco Strings & Tension (in reply to stefmikhail)

Solera Flamenca strings claim to have even tension across the set, although I haven’t tried them. They seem to be getting good reviews. In any case, if you’re a beginner I wouldn’t recommend high tension strings.

REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date May 11 2021 15:37:32

etta

Posts: 342
Joined: Jan. 20 2010

RE: Flamenco Strings & Tension (in reply to stefmikhail)

I have used high tension strings for many years without any sign of compromise on the guitar body or neck. The high tension strings enable most guitars to respond more quickly, often with more power and projection; the percussive element may be improved also. High tension strings enable a somewhat lower action with out undo buzz. HT strings may require more effort by the hands but the lower action helps to compensate for some of that issue. Find what works best for you and your guitar, but HT strings are definitely worth the try.

REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date May 11 2021 16:36:17