“The argument about string gauges is the silliest thing a guitarist can engage in”: John Mayer on what really matters when choosing the guitar strings you use

John Mayer performs onstage for day two of the 2025 Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm on September 28, 2025 in Franklin, Tennessee.

Many guitarists spend hours navigating different string gauges in the quest for the perfect tone. In John Mayer's eyes, however, there are only a few factors you should really pay attention to.

The 'thicker strings equals thicker tone' debate is a popular topic among players, with some believing that a heavier string gauge can give way to meatier, beefier tones. The trade off, of course, is that thicker strings are harder to play.