« Worth the extra $$$ » «  Worth the extra $ $ $ »

I have played the guitar for over 15 years. I have always been dedicated to keep fresh strings on my guitars (acoustic and electric) because I could hear that it makes a big difference in tone. Plus, who likes to play on strings with dirt and grime all over them? I have always been skeptical of paying the extra money for a $10 set of strings compared to a $5 set of strings. I figured, as long as I kept them fresh, that is what matters most. I had played Martin SP lights, and Ernie Ball slinky strings as long as I have have playing the guitar. Recently I tried out a set of Elixir strings on my acoustic guitar. I thought they sounded pretty good, and played really well. Then I switched back to the Martin SPs. It sounded like my guitar had lost all its tone. I was so surprised that the Martin SPs sounded dark and dull even with a brand new set of strings on the guitar. It was a shocking experience, and I couldn't believe that I had just been playing the Martin strings for so long and never tried anything else. Unfortunately for my wallet, I am going to switch to Elixirs. It is too bad they cost twice as much money, but the difference in tone was too much not to make the switch. I suppose I will just try not to switch my strings as often. But I will definitely put a new set on any time I am doing to recording, it makes a huge difference. Many times you can find retailers that carry these strings in "multi-set" packs so that you can buy two and get one free, or buy 10 sets at a discounted price. Assuming that you love the strings, and wouldn't want to try a different brand, buying in bulk is a good way to save a few extra bucks on these 'luxury' strings.