Can You Use Electric Guitar Strings for an Acoustic Guitar and Vice Versa?

When it comes to using electric guitar strings on an acoustic guitar or vice versa, the answer is both yes and no. Depending on the specific instruments and strings, a wide range of outcomes can be achieved without causing damage to your guitar.

Using Electric Strings on Acoustic Guitars

Yes, you can use electric guitar strings on acoustic guitars, and the resulting sound is ultimately up to your personal taste. If your acoustic guitar is equipped with a pickup and amplifier, you can adjust the sound to suit your preferences. Keep in mind, though, that being bold with unconventional setups might not always be well-received.

For example, I predominantly use acoustic strings and play my acoustic guitar more often. The DADDARIO 80/20 EJ11 and 10/52 for electric sometimes do the trick, and if my B or G strings pop, I can use electric strings temporarily. The intonation remains perfect even with these changes.

Using Acoustic Strings on Electric Guitars

Swapping acoustic strings for electric guitars is also feasible, although it comes with some caveats. One major consideration is the type of acoustic guitar you have. Steel-string acoustic guitars can generally accommodate electric strings, but be cautious with guitars designed for nylon strings (classical or Spanish). The neck may warp or break under the additional tension from steel strings.

Electric strings are optimized for magnetic interaction with the guitar’s pickups and are often made with bronze, which differs from the materials used in acoustic strings. Therefore, electric strings might not produce the warm and rich acoustic tone that traditional acoustic strings provide. However, electric strings are generally lighter, making them easier to play but potentially compromising the acoustic sound quality.

For an interesting hybrid approach, I have an archtop jazz guitar. I often use acoustic strings when playing it acoustically and electric strings when playing it through an amp. This dual setup allows for versatile sound flexibility.

Some companies, like DR Strings, offer a model called Zebra for acoustic-electric guitars. This string set balances both acoustic and electric tone qualities, providing a comprehensive sound experience.

Investigating My Personal Experience

I have experimented with using electric strings on my acoustic guitars and vice versa. My findings showed that while the change is possible, something was missing. The wound strings of the electric set lacked the warmth of good phosphor-bronze acoustic strings, resulting in a less vibrant sound. The instrument lost its characteristic acoustic sound.

Returning to acoustic strings restored the balance in the tone palette we typically associate with acoustic guitars, full of woody, lush, and warm characteristics.

Note that materials play a significant role in sound. This is fundamental to the guitar's intended acoustic performance. If the issue is that acoustic strings are too difficult to play, this is a separate issue of comfort and ease of playing thicker strings. There are lighter gauge string sets available, such as 10 to 47, which might be more comfortable but will result in a slightly reduced volume. Truss rod adjustments to accommodate these lighter strings can be handled by competent technicians or luthiers in a few minutes.