Nut and Changing String Gauge

[LJD]

My HBII shipped with 11's with a wound G. Right away I had it set up for 10's, but I decided for my luthier to leave the nut alone (for now). How necessary is it to adjust when going down in gauge size? Should I replace the nut for 10s? Other than tuning issues, what effect could not replacing the nut have on the tone? Can it contribute to twang, buzz, sustain, etc.?

 

[swede71]

Hi LJD!I switch between 10-46 and 11-49 strings.I set up the nut for 11-49 and that seems to work with 10s too without any problems.

 

[maxtuna26]

There won't be much problem from moving down one gauge, from what I know. The thinner gauges may twang more, but it depends more on how you play it. Buzz may happen when changing gauges but it can be solved by adjusting the truss rod or bridge saddles. It won't be the nut that causes the problem.

 

[jfb]

It amazes me how little I know about setting up a guitar. Thankfully there's PTC when I am in need.

 

[vchizzle]

I haven't run into issues when going to a light string gauge when the nut is cut for heavier strings.