I'm back to looking for new strings, and as I've yet to find anything I'm really happy with, I was hoping to get some assistance. I would really like to find something that can stand up to changes in tension better than your average string. I'm a bit rough on my instruments, and often play in non-standard tunings. I try to never go more than a minor third from where the string is supposed to be (and generally not more than a whole step), but after popping yet another C I'm starting to think that even a minor third is too much. Are there strings out there that can stand up to this sort of abuse and still provide a quality sound? Obviously, the ability to hold a tune is less important, as I'm constantly re-tuning. Any help is appreciated.

Are you tuning your strings up? That can be dangerous, as far as excessive pressure on the bridge, the top of the instrument and obvously the strings themselves.

My guess is that heavier gauge steel strings are best. I don't have any specifics though.

I do generally try to tune down. I have, in the past, tuned up as well, but I try to avoid it. I've found that a half step up seems to be acceptable, but that's about it. I'd really like to be able to tune the C string up more. Hmm... maybe I should just get two G strings? I guess I'll just have to continue the process of trial and error.