What Gauge Strings Does Troy Van Leeuwen Use? Unlocking His Signature Sound

Troy van Leeuwen uses .013-.058 gauge strings, but the specific gauge can vary depending on the guitar and the desired feel. All of his sets include a wound third string. He uses Ernie Ball strings on all of his guitars.

Let’s break down what that means:

Gauge: This refers to the thickness of the string. Thicker strings (higher gauge) produce a fuller, richer tone, but require more effort to bend and play. Thinner strings (lower gauge) are easier to bend and play but produce a thinner, brighter tone.
Wound Third String: Most electric guitars use a plain (unwound) third string, but Troy uses a wound third string, which produces a warmer, fuller sound. This is a common preference for players who want a more traditional, vintage feel.
Ernie Ball: Ernie Ball is a popular brand of guitar strings known for their quality and consistency. Troy’s preference for Ernie Ball strings suggests he values their reliability and sound.

The exact gauge of strings he uses is a matter of personal preference, and he likely changes them based on the specific guitar he’s playing and the type of music he’s performing. It’s important to remember that there is no “right” or “wrong” gauge of strings, and it’s up to each guitarist to find what works best for them.