Lalchhan Bawitlung (aka LB King) is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist based in Shillong, the Rock Capital of India. Growing up surrounded by music, LB developed a deep passion for guitar at an early age. He has worked as a session musician with artists like legendary bluesman Lou Majaw, Summersalt, and Centre for Creative Excellence in Mumbai. Currently, LB plays guitar for The LB King Band and Sound From the Hills, a folk fusion project fronted by Boomarang guitarist “Booma.” A blues enthusiast, LB was a finalist in the 2019 Mahindra Blues Big Band Hunt and remains a prominent figure in the Northeast’s blues scene.
Let’s hear from Lalchhan’s experience after trying out S.I.T. Strings.
Q. How did you hear about SIT Strings, and what made you interested in trying them?
Lalchhan: I heard about SIT strings through Instagram. Seeing players like Neil Zaza, Dan Auerbach, Zach Myers and our very own Mohini Dey play these strings made me want to try them out for myself.
Q. What were your initial impressions of the Universals Balanced Tension Custom strings and the CRT Coated Electric Guitar Strings?
Lalchhan: The CRT Strings are great. My first impression was that they felt amazingly well made. One little detail that impressed me was that there are no sharp parts near the ball end so when I top wrap my Les Paul, there are no protruding bits that could potentially cause injury. It is a small but effective detail that I appreciate. The Balanced Tension Custom strings work so well on my Tele. Shuffling between the different scale lengths on both my guitars during a long set can be a little challenging due to the varying string tension. This set makes it so much easier for me to not worry about my bends being out of tune and gives me an overall more even feel.
Q. Can you describe the tonal differences you noticed between the CRT Coated Electric Guitar Strings and your usual strings?
Lalchhan: Tonally, I’ve noticed that these strings give me a little more warmth. It sits in between the other brands that I’ve used, and although minute, it’s enough to notice and inspire my playing in its unique way.
Q. The CRT Coated Electric Guitar Strings are designed with a coating to prolong their life. Did you notice any difference in the feel or sound of the strings due to this coating?
Lalchhan: Now this is where I feel SIT strings shine. The most important thing I look for in a pack of strings is FEEL. They feel like a well-worn-in set of strings but they don’t have that annoying roughness that comes with it. Part of why I enjoy these strings so much is they just glide so effortlessly without the need for a certain fast *ahem*
Q. How did the feel of the strings affect your playing comfort? Were the strings easier or more comfortable to play than others you’ve used?
Lalchhan: As I have mentioned earlier, they feel great. The custom gauges that they offer make playing even easier. As a player who prefers heavier gauge strings, I’ve noticed that they give me a slight edge as this combination feels better suited for my particular playing style.
Q. Have you had a chance to test the durability of these strings yet? How do they hold up to your playing style and frequency of use?
Lalchhan: Being a working musician, I play shows frequently in different environments- from bars and clubs to open-air concerts so durability is a major factor when it comes to picking out a string set. That aside, I have a heavy right hand, and that in itself tests the resilience of any pack. So far they’ve checked every box and have withstood the abuse from my attack and my acidic sweat.
Q. How do these strings compare to your previous favourites in terms of tension, tone, and overall performance?
Lalchhan: They are right up there with the other ones I have tried. I’m surprised more people have not come across these strings. They sound great, feel good, and can stand a great beating (ala Albert King-style bends)
Q. Based on your experience, would you recommend these SIT strings to other guitarists? If so, what type of player or situation do you think they would be best suited for?
Lalchhan: I think more players would love these strings. I would recommend them to my peers. They would suit players across the board- from hobbyists to the seasoned pro.
Q. Did you find any specific features or aspects of these strings that complimented your playing style?
Lalchhan: The custom gauges and their coating technology. I am a snob when it comes to the gear I use and it takes a lot to impress me, hence why I keep experimenting with different things in all aspects. I also have acidic sweat which corrodes strings faster than a Michael Angelo Batio Speed Kills video. Putting 2 and 2 together, it’s easy to see why these strings are on my radar.
Q. Do you plan to continue using these strings in the future?
Lalchhan: Yes, they’ve impressed me enough to be on my list of Gear Essentials.
Q. Describe SIT Strings in 3 words.
Lalchhan: “Smooth like Makhan”
