After changing my old strings to phosphor bronze 12s, I noticed my dobro had a much more tinny and raspy sound, especially on the bottom strings.
I know some might dig the sound, but for me I would prefer if it was a little bit less tinny and raspy. My old strings from the previous owner had a more full and warmer sound. Is there anyway I can get that back? I thought phosphor bronze was the best but it had the opposite effect for me.
Edited by - Mikoyan1 on 05/31/2026 08:15:55
I guess you're saying that you have no idea what strings were on the guitar before and the previous owner can't tell you? Since we're talking 12's I assume this is a roundneck guitar? Or maybe the strings were older and they no longer had the new string "zip?"
It's impossible to remember what everyone plays who is a member here though the vast majority are squareneck lap style players.
Phosphor bronze generally imparts a brighter sound to a guitar.
Different vibe for a resonator in comparison to a vintage Martin dreadnought so I can't say how they would "react," but Tony Rice worked with Martin a bunch of years ago to revive Monel strings, and when I have used them on my Martin dreadnought they sound "warm" right off the bat. You might want to give them a try.
They are under the category of Retro strings, they come in a variety of gauges, including 12's. Available from a number of string suppliers including Martin itself.
Edited by - MarkinSonoma on 05/31/2026 11:23:51
Sorry for not clarifying more.
Yes, I’m playing on a round neck, and I don’t know what strings were on it previously.
Thank you for the info!
Just leave them on it and play it for a while, they will most likely settle in.
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