Originally Posted By: Joe V
Also, to Mac's point, I realized windings were part of the tuning issue, but there is also a 'springiness' and 'twang' sound that new steel strings have that older strings don't. Is there any scientific reason for that ? - rust maybe?


Metal fatigue, oil, and dirt. Corrosion isn't too much of an issue these days with modern phosphor bronze and stainless steel strings. Cleaning your strings after playing helps maximize life. (Just use a clean cloth--DON'T use liquid cleaners or lubricants.) There are also microcoated strings that are supposed to stay 'live' much longer than traditional strings.


"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."