Q. Why do these guitars use such light strings?

 

A. The characteristic sound of these guitars as is enhanced by the inherent brightness and snap of lighter strings (guaged .10 or .11). The vigorous approach to playing in the styles associated with these guitars is also well suited to the flexibility, quick response and playability of lighter strings.

Heavier strings (guaged .012 or more) may offer a bit more volume (admittedly, always useful in a jam session), sustain and bass response, but these qualities are generally not considered worth the trade off for the comparative brightness, responsiveness and flexibility of lighter strings.

Optimal sound and responsiveness is achieved in a guitar when the construction is closely matched to the anticipated tension load from the strings. Most Maccaferri style guitars are built to respond optimally to lighter strings.

Heavier strings are not just harder to play, over time the load from heavier strings might also take some toll on the instrument. A heavier construction would accommodate heavier strings, but only at the expense of some of the crispness, brightness and response usually desired in these instruments.