Strings and action
I'm relatively new to nylon string guitars. Two questions, likely related. I prefer a bright sound. (I know part of this is technique.) Do "hard tension" strings produce more volume than "normal tension" strings? Do carbon strings sound brighter than regular strings? And secondly, does action/string height affect volume and tone?
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In my experience, carbon strings will provide a noticeably brighter tone. I've tried a number of brands (Savarez Alliance, Oasis, D'Addario, Luthier, Hannabach, Augustine) and all of them are quite good. Intonation issues are an occasional problem (the 12th fret harmonic should match the fretted 12th fret note). I think the Alliance are the brightest bordering on shrill on some of my guitars (especially the 1st string which in the High tension is around 22#'s!). I also use "mixed sets" somtimes combining carbon 3rd and 2nd with a nylon 1st....Experiment to find what works for you. Stringsbymail.com has an enormous selection of brands and sets to choose from, including single strings. You can also call them for a consultation regarding your needs. Keep pluckin' and grinnin'.