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When would you deem that they need changing? Just on sound?
There is no set rule for how often you should change your strings. If you have strings which are worn, flattened, kinked, corroded, rusted or gunked up with sweat grease and grime, then it is time to change your strings. Another determining factor should be is if your strings are no longer giving you the tone, brightness and response that you desire. Also, if you find yourself tuning your guitar every time you finish playing a song, that is usually a good sign to swap em out.
I forgot to mention, make sure then when you put on your new strings that you either stretch them out by pinching the string on the 5th or 7th fret and lightly tugging the string upwards from where the neck meets the body. It will take a few times, because each time to stretch you should tune back to a 440 and start stretching again. I do it at least 5 times, depending on the gauge.
Edited, Tue Sep 21 15:15:45 2004 by Kelvhand