GHS Strings

WHAT IS THE HISTORY BEHIND GHS?

GHS began manufacturing guitar strings in 1964. The name of the company is taken from the initials of the original founders: Gould, Holcomb and Solko. In 1975, the company was purchased by labor attorney/entrepreneur Robert McFee, who still serves as the Chairman of the Board of the family owned company (McFee’s son, Russ, currently serves as President). The company celebrated its 50th Anniversary in August of 2014 at the corporate headquarters, still based in Battle Creek.

DOES GHS MAKE ANY STRINGS FOR OTHER COMPANIES?

Like other string companies, we make what are called “Private Label” sets, which are strings made and packaged for another company. This can be as simple as repackaging strings we already make, or it can be as complex as adhering to a different set of specifications. With respect to the relationships with our “Private Label” customers, we do not divulge any of the names of other companies that we make strings for.

WHAT IS A CORE TO COVER RATIO?

The core-to-cover ratio is the ratio between the thickness of the core wire and the thickness of the cover wrap(s). All else remaining constant, a larger core-to-cover ratio will yield a string that feels stiffer under the fingers over one with a smaller ratio. Another benefit of a larger core-to-cover ratio is a string that can easily handle downtuning with ease, without becoming overly floppy or boomy.

HOW DOES WINDING TECHNIQUE AFFECT TONE?

There are four types of winding techniques used for strings. The type providing the brightest tone (all else being equal) is the roundwound string. It is made with round cover wire wrapped around the core. Burnished strings are considered roundwound.

Next brightest is the rollerwound string. The round cover wire is crushed to a semi-flat configuration as it is wound around the core. Our Pressurewounds are an example of a rollerwound string.

Next, and “mid-bright,” is the groundwound type of string. This string starts as a roundwound; then it is ground by a centerless grinder which removes almost half of the round cover wire, leaving a smooth-feeling surface. Our Brite Flats are a groundwound string.

Finally, the flatwound string produces the darkest, or mellowest, tone. This string is made by winding a flat, or “ribbon,” wire around the core. The string is then ground. It is the smoothest feeling type of string.