Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tension of your GOLDBROKAT e-strings?

Here is an overview of the tensile forces of our GOLDBROKAT e-strings.
This is valid for all versions and a 4/4 scale.

https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/goldbrokat-e-string-tension

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Why are there no tension specifications for most strings?

Many musicians frequently ask us about string tension. It is important to understand that tension differs for each instrument and is just one of many factors affecting playability, sound, and durability. Musicians often rely too heavily on published tension values, believing they offer a sense of security—yet in practice, the actual tension may differ significantly from the manufacturer’s specifications.

For this reason, we have decided not to publish tension values. Our philosophy is a holistic approach: we want our strings to suit the instrument as a whole, rather than being selected purely by a single parameter. Therefore, we place special emphasis on the individual requirements musicians have regarding sound and feel, so that together we can find the ideal strings.

We are the string specialists – successfully operating since 1920 and 100% in Germany. With our many years of experience, we are happy to help you find the perfect strings for your instrument.

https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/why-are-there-no-tension-specifications-for-most-strings

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Are the 1767 BERGFEE guitar strings also suitable for classical guitars?

What is special about the 1767 BERGFEE guitar strings? The 1767 BERGFEE strings are our most traditional guitar strings, manufactured in-house for over 100 years. Originally, guitars were primarily strung with gut or steel strings, as nylon strings were invented later.

Why were steel strings predominantly used at that time? For traditional music styles like Stub'n-Musi or the Wandervogel movement, a powerful and loud sound was essential to stand out against instruments like the zither, hammered dulcimer, harp, and accordion.

When did nylon strings become popular? With the introduction of nylon strings, which replaced gut strings, classical guitars significantly grew in popularity. Today, classical guitars with nylon strings and acoustic guitars with steel strings coexist, each designed specifically for their string type.

Can the 1767 BERGFEE steel strings be used on classical guitars? Our 1767 BERGFEE steel strings are occasionally used on modern classical guitars, although these guitars were originally intended for nylon strings. Due to the low tension of our strings, there is virtually no risk of damaging the instrument.

Are there any limitations when using these strings on classical guitars? The intonation might be slightly compromised, as classical guitars are specifically built for nylon strings. While using 1767 BERGFEE steel strings on classical guitars is technically feasible, we do not officially recommend or support this practice.

https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/are-the-1767-bergfee-guitar-strings-also-suitable-for-classical-guitars

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I want to use Optima strings on a multiscale bass. Do you sell individual strings long enough for this?

We do offer individual bass strings in various scale lengths which, when correctly selected, will fit almost any multiscale bass. However, we cannot assist in selecting the specific combination of individual strings needed. Therefore, we recommend contacting a music store or an instrument maker who can advise you on selecting the proper combination of string lengths.

An overview of all scales and lengths you will find here:
https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/are-your-bass-strings-also-available-in-other-scales
https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/what-is-the-usable-range-for-electric-bass-strings

https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/i-want-to-use-optima-strings-on-a-multiscale-bass.-do-you-sell-individual-strings-long-enough-for-this

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What is the difference between the 24K GOLD STRINGS, the 24K GOLD UNIQUE and the 24K GOLD MAXIFLEX bass strings?

The 24K GOLD STRINGS are sonically clear and brilliant, with nice deep foundation.

The 24K GOLD UNIQUE have the same tonal characteristics (maybe even a little clearer still).
They are made of different materials and we use a slightly different spinning technique.
This makes the strings softer to play - but at least as brilliant as the 24K GOLD STRINGS.

The 24K GOLD MAXIFLEX strings have a different construction, thinner core and thicker wound than the 24K GOLD STRINGS.
Here, however, unfortunately some brilliance is lost, not really much, but audible.

However, all series have nice basses.

This technical information also applies to the electric guitar strings and the CHROME version, only that this is not 24K GOLD.

https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/what-is-the-difference-between-the-24k-gold-strings-the-24k-gold-unique-and-the-24k-gold-maxiflex-bass-strings

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What is the usable range for electric bass strings?

Our bass strings have the following usable length and total length, measured from the ball end:

Short Scale
total length: 1150 mm
usable length from the ball end: 860 mm

Medium Scale
total length: 1170 mm
usable length from ball end: 900 mm

Long Scale
total length: 1250 mm
usable length from ball end: 935 mm

Super Long Scale
total length: 1250 mm
usable length from ball end: 985 mm

https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/what-is-the-usable-range-for-electric-bass-strings

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Are your bass strings also available in other scales?

Our bass strings are available in the 4 scales:

Short Scale (30 inch/762 mm; sometimes also 30,5 inch/775 mm (e.g. Gibson) or 30,75 inch/781 mm (e.g. Hagstrom))
for this add ".S" to the article number

Medium Scale (32 inch/813 mm)
for this add ".M" to the article number

Super Long Scale (also Extra Long Scale, 36 inch/914 mm), especially for basses with low B-string
for this add ".SL" to the article number

and as Double Ball version with a length of 698 mm from center of ball to center of ball
for this add ".DB" to the article number

https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/are-your-bass-strings-also-available-in-other-scales

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Do you offer coated strings?

Do you offer coated strings?
Yes, we have several string series that are coated with a synthetic material:

Concert Guitar Series 270
All Bronze strings

Why don’t the 24K Gold strings need coating?
Our 24K Gold strings are already optimally protected against dirt and corrosion by their real gold plating. Since gold does not tarnish or rust, the sound remains consistently brilliant. In fact, due to the heavier gold plating, these strings develop an even fuller and more elegant tone.

Does a synthetic coating affect the sound?
Any additional coating—no matter how thin—results in a certain loss of overtones. Therefore, the sound of a coated string can be somewhat “dampened” compared to uncoated strings.

Which strings don’t need a coating but still have a long-lasting sound?

Our

No.6 Series (for concert guitar)
Flamenca Solista

use an almost impervious alloy for the wrap wire. As a result, no coating is needed, yet the strings still offer a long lifespan and consistently great sound.

https://optima-strings.com/shop/en/faq/questions-about-products/do-you-offer-coated-strings

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