Classical Strings

I more or less stumbled into a guitar with classical strings. It came with a few thick felt picks and some of the traditional plastic ones. I had heard that it might be bad for the strings to use a plastic pick. I asked the sales rep in the store if this was the case and he replied “Some people do it.” So, I’m here to ask of it’s a bad idea to use traditional picks on classical strings or if it doesn’t matter. TIA. Ken

I don't think it really matters that much. It just depends on what kind of sound you're going for.
Think of it this way, strings are only like, $5 a pack.
It's probably not going to be a big deal if you accidentally break one of them.
Keep a few extra packs of strings and a whole bunch of different picks around.
Experiment and have fun trying things out and if you break a string, no big deal. Just take a couple of minutes and replace it.

I completely agree with what Kevin said. Using a pick with nylon strings is absolutely fine.

I guess it's "technically" worse for your strings if you use a plastic pick. just because its obviously harder than a felt pick. Harder things will wear stuff out faster. I don't think its bad at all though. It's not bad enough where it will noticeably wear out your strings a lot faster.

Originally Posted by: Kevin TaylorI don't think it really matters that much. It just depends on what kind of sound you're going for.

Yeah, also think of it this way...the vast majority of players (classical/flamenco stylists) using nylon strings are using what...their fingernails. And many dedicated players go to great lengths to harden their nails with various methods like super-glue or whatever. Fake nails are also fairly common on one or all fingers. So a plastic pick isn't any worse.

If string wear is a concern, I'd suggest just paying a bit more for the protection coated strings (like D'Addario EXP) over the sacrifice of tone and playing with picks you're not comfortable with ...unless you just like felt picks, then what the hell, go for it.