I get some weird jobs sometimes but this one is up there and I'd like a bit of advice.


I need to fit a new pickup (no problem), fix up all the lifting veneers (no problem), and restring. I am not allowed to replace any wood at all so what you see is what you get. I am allowed to remove the blu tack.
It's supposed to be tuned to a pentatonic scale, which could literally be at any pitch, the owner doesn't particularly want a "set" tuning. This is a little tricky as I've got no idea on where to start. The top has literally buckled under the tension of the existing strings (a mishmash of "anything" that was a string, notably the bass string on there) so I want lighter strings but I am concerned they will sound weak.
Any experience here? I was thinking of using phosphor bronze but perhaps nickel strings would work better (considering it's really an electric instrument)?? Or am I over overcomplicating this (considering it's made from a chair)?