It seems that I'm getting a lot of squeak when fretting the strings and I'm not sure why since this was never much of a problem for me until fairly recently. I'm wondering if, in my older age, the chemistry in my finger tips is changing? Anyway, I'm asking for comment and suggestions as to what i can do about this. Can anyone recommend any products that might assist? I've never used any of the string whipes or lubes before. A new set of strings is OK at first, but soon develop the said "squeak". They actually start to feel a bit "sticky" when starting a slide and even in a pull-off.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Steve Q,

I find that when my hands are very dry (and calusses seem "harder") I get more squeek. This may be sacreligious to some, but Elixirs greatly alleviate the problem. They sound great on my OM but I prefer John Pearse on the C-10.

Coated strings do help with squeaks. I think this also depends on what's causing the squeaking. A part of it might be technique and just a slight adjustment might make a big difference (as in lifting more to clear the string when moving from one note to another). Also, the calluses on the left hand fingertips (for right-handed players) could also cause the squeak. After playing for a while, sometimes the pressure applied to the strings causes grooves on the fingertips or peels a part of the callus. As part of my kit, I have a very smooth nail buffer that I use for this.

Ace
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I've wondered if I might be getting a bit lazy in my technique and my calluses have certainly hardened and perhaps dried since I've had the D1A varnish, what with all the playing I've been doing. Might be time to go back to some old practice technique drills. I have tried coated strings and they did feel "slicker" but I much prefer the tone of raw 80/20s. I am curious about the various products I've seen "finger ease" and "string wipes" etc. Anyone have any experience with that sort of thing?

I have Fingerease and I don't think it does much at all to prevent squeaking. I think keeping your fingertips moist is a better way to reduce string squeak along with using coated strings.


http://www.fingerstyle-guitar.com/barry_iozia/audio.php