Here’s my current gauge:
.011, .014, .018, .026, .036, .042
I would love to use the wound .044 on my 6th string, but please note my previous post.
This gauge seems to get the most out of the piezo output. The heavy strings in the bass register just buzz way too much above the 12th fret.
My discussions with Mr. Vo have revealed that there may be a disproportion between the inner core to the outer windings on the Moog strings. He actually recommended using “Aurora” brand strings because of their excellent manufacture. He also revealed that the theory behind using heavier strings is that they work better with the electronics as the magnets have more metal to grab onto; but considering our discussion about intonation issues, etc. he stated that perhaps it was unnecessary to use heavy strings since the bridge provided the best sonic anchor overall.
I trust that there is something special about the Moog Strings and their theory behind winding the ball ends with fabric, so in addition to pursuing a clearer tone and better intonation I have decided to use a wound string on every slot. Since the Wilkinson trem balances the tension across all six strings, I think that one can use any gauge they like and feel satisfied.
This string gauge is very similar to that used by Stevie Ray Vaughn in his later years, and it allows one to bend extensively on all the strings. The downside is the cost and necessity of purchasing soooo many extra strings and all three sets.
Another downside of pursuing clearer tone and intonation is that I’ve had to straighten the truss rod and raise the individual strings height of certain strings to get the balance of perfection action and clarity. Now I need to raise the pickup height of the neck pickup since I get very little output from the neck pickup. The bridge output is nearly perfect.
A more expensive, but extensive solution to the buzz and intonation issues would be to have these guitars refretted w/ stainless steel frets that are very low profile. I’ve played guitars for years that have jumbo frets, and my ultimate determination is that they are more trouble than they are worth. I feel that there is a trade-off for extended fret life and clarity in bends, and that is playability and buzz. I would love to have my guitar setup with stainless steel frets that are as low as a fretless wonder.
I was also looking at the possibility of installing a Fishman Powerbridge in the place of the Wilkinson trem. There are a lot more options available in this style of bridge . . . everything from Wilkinson, to Fender, to Floyd Rose type bridges. Also the saddles are not as fragile, there is less wiring and parts are easier to replace. According to Mr. Vo, the bridge would have to be specially designed since the conductive coating on the Powerbridge may conflict with the magnets in the Moog Electronics. This is untested as of yet. He also said that he would have used the Fishman system if he could, but it appears that Fishman has released many new styles of the Powerbridge since the development of the Moog Guitar.
