Product Overview
Santa Cruz Parabolic Baritone Acoustic Strings Low Tension
Understanding Guitar Strings: Tension and Sound Quality
When you're choosing guitar strings, it's important to know that tension plays a crucial role in how your guitar sounds. While gauge simply refers to the thickness of the string, tension is the pulling force the string exerts when tuned to pitch. This tension directly affects the volume of each string relative to the others – what's often called EQ or equalization.
Interestingly, the tension of a string isn't just about its thickness. It's significantly influenced by the core to wrap ratio – the proportion of the inner core wire to the outer wrapping wire. This ratio can vary a lot between different string brands. As a result, you might find significant differences in tension between string sets, even if they have the same gauge. This can lead to an uneven volume balance across your strings.
Santa Cruz Strings: Engineered for Balanced Sound
Santa Cruz Strings take a different approach. They are specifically designed to apply the exact right tension to each individual string. This precise tension ensures the optimal volume balance (EQ) across all the strings on your guitar.
To achieve this, Santa Cruz Strings require very specific core to wrap ratios and are manufactured with exceptional precision. Their "fit and finish" is held to incredibly tight tolerances – within one half of one thousandth of an inch! This accuracy is what allows them to precisely control the tension and volume of each string, ensuring they complement the intended sound of your guitar.
Beyond sound, Santa Cruz Strings are also built to last. They utilize advanced metallurgy and a micro-coating to protect the core wire (which is nickel and lead-free) from corrosive moisture. This helps extend the life of your strings.
The Science Behind the Sound
For over a decade, Santa Cruz Guitar Company (SCGC) recognized that standard strings often couldn't fully bring out the rich overtones and sustain they carefully craft into each of their guitars through individual tap tuning and hand voicing. To address this, SCGC collaborated with experts in audiological sciences. This partnership led to the development of Santa Cruz Strings, designed to perfectly drive and enhance the complex acoustic tone of their instruments.
In short, when choosing strings, consider the tension. Santa Cruz Strings are engineered with precise tension for balanced volume and long-lasting performance, ultimately helping you get the best sound from your guitar.
