Martin Guitar, a name synonymous with premium acoustic guitars, has streamlined their string lineup to help players find their ideal sound more easily. The newly launched Martin Authentic Acoustic strings are designed with the player in mind, offering three distinct options: Superior Performance, Marquis Silked, and Lifespan 2.0. This simplified approach ensures every guitarist can discover the perfect match for their instrument and playing style.
The core of each Authentic Acoustic string set is a tin-plated, high tensile strength core wire, available in both 80/20 bronze and 92/8 phosphor bronze windings. This foundational quality promises durability and consistent tone across the range. Let’s explore each of these new sets in detail.
Martin Authentic Acoustic Superior Performance: The Core Sound
The Superior Performance strings are positioned as the essential, go-to set in the new lineup. These strings aim to deliver a balanced and reliable tone that players can depend on. In practical use, installing the phosphor bronze version on a Gibson SJ-200 acoustic guitar immediately showcased their impact. The strings revitalized the guitar’s voice, producing a lively and resonant sound that drew positive attention from fellow musicians. The balanced tension and feel of the Superior Performance strings contribute to an overall enhanced playing experience and a vibrant sonic character.
Martin Authentic Acoustic Marquis Silked: Protection and Richness
For players seeking both exceptional tone and added protection for their instruments, the Marquis Silked strings are an excellent choice. These strings feature a special silk wrapping at the ball end. This silking acts as a buffer, preventing potential wear and tear on the guitar’s bridge and bridge plate, especially beneficial for vintage or delicate instruments. Testing the Marquis Silked on a Collings D41 dreadnought acoustic guitar revealed a bountiful and focused tone. The strings brought out a definition and richness that elevated the guitar’s inherent sound quality, proving that protection doesn’t compromise sonic excellence.
Martin Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0: Long-Lasting Tone and Freshness
The Lifespan 2.0 strings are engineered for longevity without sacrificing tone. Utilizing a new treatment process, these strings are designed to resist corrosion and maintain their fresh-string sound for an extended period. After an extended seven-week trial involving daily playing and frequent tuning adjustments on a Waterloo WL-S guitar, the Lifespan 2.0 strings lived up to their promise. They retained a crisp, bright tone and maintained a new-string appearance throughout the test. The sonic experience was also notably enhanced, offering a more detailed sound profile with increased high-end sparkle and a punchy low-midrange. For players who value consistent tone and dislike frequent string changes, the Lifespan 2.0 strings offer a compelling solution.
Conclusion: A Simplified Path to Superior Acoustic Tone
Martin’s new Authentic Acoustic string line successfully simplifies the selection process while enhancing the quality and variety of options available to acoustic guitar players. Whether you prioritize core performance, instrument protection, or long-lasting tone, there’s a set within the Authentic Acoustic range designed to meet your needs. These strings are a worthwhile upgrade for any player looking to unlock the full potential of their Martin Acoustic Guitar and achieve a richer, more nuanced sound. Explore the new Martin Authentic Acoustic strings and discover your perfect tone at martinguitar.com.