Detail 01
Flatwound
Flat ribbon winding instead of round wire: almost no finger squeak, slick under the hand, noticeably darker tone.
Product detailSKU #1274115036476
ThomastikKR116 Classic S Series Flatwound Light Guitar Strings
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
A light-gauge flatwound acoustic guitar set from Thomastik. For players who want a smooth, dark, quiet string and will pay well above roundwound prices.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Jazz and archtop players after a dark, mellow acoustic voice
- Recording sessions where fret squeak ruins takes
- Players who slide constantly and dislike rough winding texture
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Strummers wanting bright, jangly ring and sparkle
- Players who change strings monthly — the set price is steep
- Beginners; standard roundwounds cost a fraction of this
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Light gauge
Lower tension than a heavier set. Easier fretting and bending, less bass weight and volume.
Detail 03
Full set
All strings included, not a single replacement, so you change the whole guitar at once.
Detail 04
Acoustic strings
Voiced for an acoustic body. The flat surface trades top-end shimmer for a warmer, more even midrange.
Detail 05
Price per set
Flatwounds cost more up front but typically hold their tone longer, since less grime works into the winding.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Switching from roundwounds changes tension and feel; a setup check is worth it.
- 02Flatwounds sit differently in nut slots cut for roundwounds — watch for binding.
- 03Strings only. No picks, winder or cutters included.
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01What's the difference between flatwound and roundwound?
Roundwound has ridged round wire you can feel. Flatwound uses flat ribbon, so the surface is smooth: much less squeak, slicker feel, darker sound.
02Will flatwounds sound dull on my acoustic?
They're darker than roundwounds by design. Less high-end sparkle, more midrange body. Great for jazz, less so for bright strumming.
03Do these last longer than regular strings?
Generally yes. The flat surface gives sweat and dirt fewer places to collect, so tone holds up longer than a comparable roundwound set.
04How light is light gauge here?
Light is the lower-tension option: easier on the fingers, quicker to fret and bend, with less volume and low-end push than a heavier set.
