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Choosing string gauge
Gauge is the thickness of the strings, quoted by the diameter of the thinnest one, so a set of 9s is lighter than a set of 10s. Lighter strings bend easily and are kinder to the fingers, which suits beginners and lead playing. Heavier strings give more volume, a fuller tone and hold tuning better under aggressive playing. Changing gauge significantly alters the tension on the neck, so a large jump may need the setup adjusting afterwards rather than being purely a matter of taste.
String materials
Electric strings are nickel wound for a warmer tone or stainless steel for a brighter, harder edge that resists corrosion. Acoustic strings are usually phosphor bronze, which sounds warm and rounded, or 80/20 bronze, which is brighter but dulls faster. Coated strings cost more and last considerably longer, which makes them good value if your hands are acidic or you play daily. Classical instruments take nylon strings and must never be fitted with steel, which will damage the neck.
Straps and strap safety
Width and material decide comfort. A wide padded strap spreads the weight of a heavy instrument across the shoulder, which matters for long sets and for basses in particular. Leather lasts longest and softens with use, while woven fabric is lighter and cheaper. Whatever you choose, fit strap locks or at minimum a pair of rubber washers over the buttons, because a strap slipping off a button is the commonest way a guitar hits the floor.
Plectrums and slides
Pick thickness changes both tone and control. Thin picks flex and suit strumming, giving a lighter, brighter attack. Thick picks give more precision and volume for single note playing. Since they cost pennies and get lost constantly, buy a mixed selection and find what suits your hand. Slides come in glass for a warmer smoother tone, and metal for more bite and volume, and the choice is mostly personal preference.
Capos and tuning aids
A capo clamps across the fretboard to raise the pitch, letting you play familiar shapes in a different key, which is invaluable for accompanying singers. Spring clamp designs are quick to move, while screw adjusted capos apply more even pressure and pull the instrument out of tune less. If a capo makes strings buzz or sound sharp, it is either too far from the fret or clamped harder than necessary.
Care and small spares worth having
Keep a spare set of strings, a spare strap, a couple of plectrums and a string winder in the case, since all four are things that end a rehearsal otherwise. Wipe strings after playing to slow corrosion, and change them when they sound dull rather than waiting for one to break, because a set that has gone lifeless makes a good instrument sound cheap.