Cleartone vs. Elixir Acoustic Strings: A Detailed Showdown

Updated at: 18/03/2025

Choosing the right acoustic guitar strings can significantly impact your playing experience. This detailed comparison pits Cleartone Phosphor Bronze against Elixir Nanoweb Phosphor Bronze strings, two popular choices among guitarists. We'll delve into a comprehensive analysis of their sonic qualities and tactile feel, examining how each set performs across various playing styles, from energetic strumming to delicate fingerpicking. Our testing focused on identifying subtle tonal differences and evaluating the overall playing experience offered by each brand. The goal is to help you determine which string set best suits your individual preferences and playing style.This showdown goes beyond simple sound comparisons; we explored the nuances of each string's feel under the fingertips. We considered the impact of Elixir's coated design versus Cleartone's uncoated construction, analyzing how these differences influence playing comfort and responsiveness. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a clear and unbiased assessment, empowering you to make an informed decision when choosing between these two high-quality string options for your acoustic guitar.

Pros And Cons

Clear Tone Phosphor Bronze Strings
  • Sounded really good right out of the box
  • Sounded bright initially, then brightness subsided after two weeks
  • Sounded similar to Elixir strings
  • Not as slick as Elixir phosphor bronze strings
  • Feel like uncoated strings (a preference issue)
Elixir Nanoweb Phosphor Bronze Strings
  • Slick feel due to thick coating
  • Reviewer's favorite brand

Read more: Top 5 Elixir Guitar Strings: A Buyer's Guide

Sound Comparison: Strumming, Fingerpicking, and Arpeggios

This comparison focuses on the sonic qualities of Cleartone Phosphor Bronze and Elixir Nanoweb Phosphor Bronze strings across various playing styles. Both sets were tested in strumming patterns, intricate fingerpicking techniques, and arpeggiated chords to highlight their tonal differences.

Close-up shot of the guitar with Cleartone strings being strummed.
Close-up shot of the guitar with Cleartone strings being strummed.

The Cleartone strings exhibited a bright, clear tone initially, similar to the renowned brightness of Elixir strings. However, after a couple of weeks of play, the Cleartone's initial brightness mellowed out and maintained a pleasing clarity.

Close-up shot of the guitar with Elixir strings being fingerpicked.
Close-up shot of the guitar with Elixir strings being fingerpicked.

The Elixir strings maintained their consistent, smooth sound throughout the testing period. The difference in sound between the two string sets were subtle, but noticeable when listening closely with headphones for better audio quality.

Feel and Playability: Slick vs. Uncoated

Beyond the sonic aspects, the tactile experience of playing each set of strings was evaluated. The Elixir strings, known for their coated design, delivered a notably smoother feel under the fingers.

Close-up shot of the guitarist's hand on the fretboard while playing the Elixir strings.
Close-up shot of the guitarist's hand on the fretboard while playing the Elixir strings.

Conversely, the uncoated Cleartone strings offered a more traditional, slightly less slick feel. This difference is subjective; some players appreciate the slickness of coated strings, while others prefer the uncoated feel for its responsiveness.

Shot of the reviewer holding both the Cleartone and Elixir packaging.
Shot of the reviewer holding both the Cleartone and Elixir packaging.

The choice between slick and uncoated strings boils down to personal preference. While Elixir's smooth feel is preferred by the reviewer, the Cleartone's traditional feel might be suitable for players who prefer a more responsive string with direct feel.

Overall Impression and Conclusion

The Cleartone Phosphor Bronze strings were a surprising contender to the reviewer's favorite, Elixir Nanoweb Phosphor Bronze strings.

The reviewer speaking about his overall impression of the Cleartone strings.
The reviewer speaking about his overall impression of the Cleartone strings.

While Elixir provides a superior feel due to its coating, Cleartone offers a comparable sound with a more traditional, uncoated feel. The choice depends on your preference for feel over the minor difference in sound.

Both are excellent choices, with Elixir slightly edging out for its consistently smooth feel and long-lasting life. However, Cleartone's strong sound and uncoated feel provide a compelling alternative for players who appreciate a more responsive and direct playing experience.