For years I used a Ryobi electric (corded) trimmer until this year it gave up the ghost. It was the model that had the separate power head and various attachments (trimmer, cultivator, etc.). I replaced the power head and bought a new straight-shaft trimmer attachment and gave it a try and decided I didn't like the straight shaft either for its cut quality or for its length (I'm only 5'7" and I found it tough to maneuver). So I switched back to the old curved-shaft trimmer attachment.

The old trimmer never gave a terrific cut, but with the new power head it's worse no matter which attachment I use--straight or curved. The grass tips are really shredded. I always used the old power head on low speed, but the new power head only has the higher speed. Could the cut quality be speed related? Could the line not be up to the job? (I've used Ryobi round .080 in the curved shaft and .095 in the straight.) Is there a different line that would give a cleaner cut? A different cutting head? A different trimmer?

I have a small city yard, so I don't mind using a corded trimmer. The trimmer only sees light duty, trimming and edging grass and occasionally some light weeds. If I could address this by starting small (e.g., line selection) I would rather do that. If I have to, I'd consider a different trimmer.

I have found the star or similar shaped line to give a better cut than traditional round line. A bunch of different companies make various shapes of line so just search around.

Yep, I use the Grass Gator Trimmer line. Its decagram shaped.