Gypsy sounding strings for electric guitar

KyOteSwing · February 28

Hey guys, I figured I would reach out here and ask if anybody is aware of an electric string equivalent to gypsy style strings. I love the resonant SNAP that I get from Argentines, not sure if it’s the silver plating or what…

but anyway, I just wanted to ask if anyone is aware or an equivalent for electric guitars, that I can put on my Gretsch to get some that sound.

thank you

Buco · February 28

It's about the guitar design more than the strings. Picking technique too because I've heard top players get a good tone on a flattop. On the Gretch I'd sooner try pure nickel strings.

littlemark · February 28

I don't think an electric guitar can do that. You could try silk and steel strings... Which are meant for flat tops.

But you can also just try Gypsy strings. I mean they should work. Worth the 15 dollar experiment.

lucky · February 28

I don’t know if it’s really an equivalent but I always have flatwounds on my electric, they have a similar softness on the fingers.

The closest I’ve been to a gypsy jazz feel on an electric was a nylon strung Godwin multiac.

wim · February 28

It's a bit like asking which tires on your Kia will make it go fast as a Porsche

MikeK · March 2

Good one, Wim. I agree with the sentiments here. We've all heard great gypsy jazz guitar players bring the magic out of nearly everything except the broom in the corner of the room or the shovel stuck in the ground out in the yard. But those are master players and are the exceptions to the rule. I've tried all kinds of weird experiments through the years to try to coax the gypsy jazz magic out of something that I shouldn't be coaxing. But the bottom line is that for most of us mortals, it's extremely hard to top a good old trusty gypsy jazz guitar with gypsy jazz strings on it. I've had some fun searching for an alternative to try to produce that feel and/or that sound. But alas, it always leads to disappointment. And then I find myself happy to be back home with my trusty old Altamira strung up with Argies.