The Secret to Balanced String Tension: Classical Guitar Lessons (Wimbledon & Online)
The First Step to Better Playing: (You Should Probably Change Your B String)
Essential Guitar String Tips Every Classical Guitarist Should Know
Choosing the right guitar strings can dramatically improve your instrument's sound and playability. Whether I’m teaching classical guitar lessons in London at my Wimbledon studio or connecting with students globally via online classical guitar lessons, I’ve spent years experimenting with different string combinations to help my students achieve the best possible tone.
The Second String Problem
One of the most valuable tips I share with advancing students concerns the second string (B string) on classical guitars. This string often presents tonal imbalance issues that many guitarists don't realise can be easily solved through strategic string selection.
Regardless of what tension set you're using, the second string frequently sounds and feels noticeably weaker or 'floppier' compared to the first string. This creates an uneven tonal quality that can be particularly noticeable in scales, arpeggios, and melodic passages that cross strings and require tonal consistency at speed.
The Solution: Higher Tension Second String
The solution is surprisingly simple: use a higher tension second string than your first string, regardless of what tension set you're playing. For example, if you're using a normal tension set, replace just the second string with a hard or (depending on the brand) extra hard tension string.
This approach creates better tonal balance and improved feel across the treble strings. The slightly increased tension on the second string brings its volume, tonal character, and physical resistance more in line with the first string, resulting in smoother, more even sound production and a more consistent feel under the fingers.
Why This Works
By increasing the tension slightly on just the second string, you're essentially compensating for this natural imbalance (my guess is the major 3rd inconsistency between the 3rd and 2nd strings, as opposed to the uniform 4ths across the remainder of the set) The result is a more cohesive sound that makes scales sound smoother and chordal playing more balanced.
This change made a significant change with scale passages…
Implementing This Tip
When purchasing guitar strings, consider buying a full set in your preferred tension plus an additional single second string in the next tension level up. Most string manufacturers sell individual strings, making this approach cost-effective. In the UK, Strings Direct is a great place to start, Strings by Mail for US players and for Europeans: Lord of the Strings (haha)
Experiment to find which combination works best for your particular guitar and playing style, as every instrument responds differently. Personally, I consider the Savarez ‘Alliance’ B string in high tension to be the emperor of the B strings, which blends beautifully with the D’addario Pro Arte 1st (E) string at normal tension.
The Impact on Your Playing
This simple string adjustment can have a surprisingly significant impact on your playing and overall sound. Students often report that previously challenging passages suddenly feel easier when the tension and compliance become more balanced across strings. They describe a newfound evenness in string-to-string volume and resistance that transforms how smoothly they can navigate the strings with their right hand.
The benefits extend beyond just tone, however. When your subconscious no longer anticipates that softer, floppier B string when travelling from the first string, you eliminate one of the tiny hesitations that create gaps in phrasing and increase mental load. These micro-adjustments (compensating for uneven string response) chip away at your concentration and technical precision without you even realising it.
As with any setup change, allow yourself time to adapt. The increased tension on the second string is subtle, and you will notice a difference in right-hand resistance initially. This adjustment period is brief, and most players find the improved consistency well worth it.
If you're interested in personalised guidance tailored to your specific guitar and playing goals, I offer free trial lessons at my Wimbledon studio as well as online. During a trial session, I can assess your current setup, identify areas for improvement, and share additional tips that will enhance your tone and technique.
