Best Lap Steel Strings for Resonant Hawaiian Tones
Finding the right lap steel strings can dramatically influence tone, sustain, and tuning stability. The following selections cover a range of gauges, tunings, and brands popular among players of Hawaiian and country-inspired lap steel. Each option is suited for open C or C6 tunings and similar setups, with a focus on fresh packaging, durable construction, and reliable intonation. The list helps players compare options across core brands and styles to match their playing preferences and instrument types.
| Product | Brand | Tuning / Type | Gauges (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian Lap Steel Strings – Single Set | Asher Electro Hawaiian | 6-string electric lap steel | .015p .018p .028w .038w .048w .058w | Sealed in plastic sleeve for freshness |
| GHS LAP-E Lap Steel Strings (E Tuning), 13-56 | GHS Strings | E Tuning (lap steel) | 13-56 | Roundwound, corrosion-free NitroPack packaging |
| Nashville C6 Lap Steel Strings 6-String | Southbound Strings | C6 Tuning | 34, 30, 24, 20, 17, 14 (approx.) | Open C to CEGACE style; 23″ scale suitability |
| D’Addario XL Electric Nickel 12-60 | D’Addario | 6-string electric (general use) | 12-60 | Hex-core for intonation and durability |
| John Pearse Hawaiian Lap Steel Strings Pure Nickel C6 Tuning 15-32 (3 Pack) | John Pearse | C6 Tuning | 15-32 gauges | Pack of 3; compatible with lap slide and Weissenborn |
Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian Lap Steel Strings
These single-set strings are designed for 6-string lap steel electrics, featuring nickel round-wound construction and a medium gauge profile. The set includes .015p, .018p, .028w, .038w, .048w, .058w, offering a balanced tension suitable for bright attack and responsive bending. The plastic sleeve packaging helps maintain freshness and extend life between changes. This option suits players seeking reliable intonation and a traditional lap steel feel.
GHS LAP-E Lap Steel Strings (E Tuning)
GHS LAP-E strings are designed for E tuning on lap steel, delivering a roundwound, vibrant tone. The Dynamite Alloy nickel-plated steel maintains punch and clarity between changes, while Nitропack packaging keeps corrosion at bay for a fresh startup each time you restring. Ideal for players seeking balanced brightness with sturdy fundamentals for lap steel setups.
Nashville C6 Lap Steel Strings 6-String
Designed for 23″ scale lap steels in open C style tunings, these C6 strings from Southbound provide a classic honky-tonk and Hawaiian feel. The gauge set includes stainless-like nickel wound strings in a configuration that supports bright, clear chords with robust midrange. This option is favored by players pursuing a traditional C6 voicing and strong playability across the fretboard.
GHS Electric Lap Steel Strings C6 Tuning 15-36
This GHS set provides a 15-36 gauge range with a distinct C6 tuning compatibility, offering a balanced tone that works well for lap steel players seeking a brighter attack with comfortable tension. The roundwound construction preserves articulation across open and fretted positions, suitable for Hawaiian and country-driven styles.
John Pearse Pure Nickel C6 Tuning
John Pearse offers a pure nickel set tailored for C6 tuning, sold in a 3-pack bundle. These strings are well-suited for lap steel, resophonic, and Weissenborn guitars. The nickel wrap provides a balanced tone with good sustain, making them a practical option for players who want consistent feel and easy stability across performances and recording sessions.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when selecting lap steel strings include tuning compatibility, gauge balance, material, packaging freshness, and instrument scale. For players focusing on Hawaiian tones, lighter to mid gauges tend to yield brighter attack and quicker response, while mid to heavier gauges offer thicker midrange and sustain for blues and country contexts. Nickel windings are common for lap steel, delivering a bright, clear tone with good durability. Packaging freshness matters for long shelf life; look for sealed packaging or “NitroPack” style solutions. If your lap steel uses C6 tuning, strings labeled for C6 or open C configurations are typically ideal.
Comparative notes:
– Brand reputation and warranty: Established brands (D’Addario, GHS, John Pearse) offer consistent quality and widely available replacements.
– Tension and scale: Check your instrument’s scale length (commonly 23″ for lap steel) and confirm the recommended tension range for the gauge set.
– Tone goals: Lighter gauges favor brightness and fast response; heavier gauges enhance sustain and chord fullness.
– Maintenance: Wipe strings after playing to extend life; replace sets regularly to maintain stable intonation and tone.
Practical tips:
– If you dial in a vintage honky-tonk vibe, try stainless-like nickel wound sets with moderate gauges on C6 or open-C tunings.
– For bright, cutting tone suitable for live Hawaiian styles, choose lighter to mid-gauge sets and ensure freshness packaging for consistent tone.