My Overall Rating:

Martin 12-string is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

The purchase of Martin M190 80/20 Bronze 12-String Acoustic Guitar Strings will satisfy the majority of players. Although received with somewhat mixed reviews, most purchases of the Martin 12-string set were certainly positive, and many found them to be perfectly suited for the needs of their instrument. The cost of maintaining a 12-string guitar is significant, and the cost of a set of strings is usually above $20. Depending on the retailer, a Martin 12-string acoustic set averages at about $17, and through some sellers, can be purchased for as little as $7. For the price, these strings are a bargain, and relatively good quality.

Made from a composition bronze alloy, the description of the Martin 12-string set offered by the company boasts impressive sound quality, promising clarity and longevity. The bronze winding is said to produce a deep bass and a clear tenor. Essentially, these are accurate descriptions. The Martin 12-string acoustic set does provide a good sound, especially considering the price. Some reviewers note that the two demographics of musicians who are likely to order a Martin 12-string set are “broke” artists and guitar players working on a project 12-string inexpensively. For both these groups, buying the string set is highly recommended. The Martin 12-string acoustic set surpasses the quality offered by competitors within the price range.

One critic of the strings noted that few 12-string players exist as serious musicians dedicated to the style of instrument. This is true. The 12-string is rarely played regularly. Musicians who use the style are almost always looking for a unique sound to record or experiment with. The high cost significantly limits the interest in 12-strings. For this reason, it is difficult to justify the purchase of additional strings because they are not necessary for traditional playing. They are an added expense, and generally, an unnecessary expense. Many potential players are deterred simply because of cost, making the Martin 12-string set an excellent option. The set is inexpensive, but offers a good sound perfect for experimenting with. Another reviewer added that other companies offer higher quality strings. This is also true, but the price tag associated with them means they are an option that should be reserved.

The player who has the most to benefit from a purchase of a Martin 12-string acoustic set is the curious beginner, the player who is first experimenting with 12-strings. The set will meet all of their needs inexpensively. Should the player enjoy the unique sound produced by the different style, they may consider purchasing a higher quality, more expensive string set. If the player decides against purchasing 12-strings, they have not lost much of an investment. Many players are entirely satisfied with the Martin 12-string acoustic set and will continue to use it.

The Martin 12-string set is a popular item. Purchases are consistently followed by positive reviews, and among major retails sites, the Martin 12-string acoustic set is rarely rated poorly. It is praised for the quality of the sound produced through the set at the cost, and compared with competitor sets, the Martin 12-string set remains unsurpassed. Click here to read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Martin
Model	M190
Type	Acoustic Strings, 12 string
Wrap Wire	80/20 Bronze
Gauge	Light gauge (012 - .054)
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

My Overall Rating:

Martin M130 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK

When learning to play the guitar there are very few teachers who are going to tell you the benefits of having the right strings to go with it, which is a pity as the Martin m130 may just make the difference that you – and your neighbors – have been waiting to hear.

Have you ever picked up your guitar and wondered why the sound coming out of it bared little to no resemblance to the Jimi Hendrix riff that you’re trying to play? Some people may say that it’s down to a lack of practice, a lack of skill, or even a lack of any sort of musical ability, but that’s not always the case; sometimes you just need the right equipment to get the right sounds coming out, and that’s where switching to silk and steel strings has helped many people out.

Refusing to believe that I wasn’t going to be the next Chuck Berry – and clearly giving my age away – I would practice for ages on my old four string guitar, but nothing really helped. It wasn’t until some years later that I discover that it should actually have six strings, and that the strings I did have weren’t all that good for a beginner – that and the previously mentioned lack of any musical talent. I started to look around for a full set of strings that would be easier to play, wouldn’t have a dull sound to them, wouldn’t sound as twangy, and would make me sound like a rock-star; well, the first three things would do, for a start.

I soon discovered that many people were recommending switching to the Martin guitar strings, and the Martin m130 silk and steel strings in particular. I thought ‘what the hell’, they were cheap enough, and the neighbors couldn’t be any more upset with me than they already were, so I decided to get a set.

Now, the Martin m130 silk and steel strings seem to work on most guitars, but it may still pay to check that they work with your guitar, and they wouldn’t instantly make you sound like the next Carlos Santana, but they were pretty much the only ‘drawbacks’ that I could see when I was doing my research in to them; but hey, you could say the same thing about any strings that you settle on getting, not just the Martin guitar strings.

As far as it making a difference to my actual playing, well, I always thought I was good, so you’d really have to ask the neighbors. The Martin m130 strings did seem to have a better feel to them, were easier to use with just my fingers, and produced the type of sound that I was aiming for, a more sort of melodic sound; having a full complement of strings also made a bit of a difference, but I was still just using the same three chords anyway.

So, will Martin m130 silk and steel strings make you in to the next Eric Clapton? Well, that all sort of depends on the commitment you put in to your practice, the talent that you have to start with, and getting the correct number of string for your guitar; but switching from what you already have, to the Martin guitar strings, and especially the Martin m130 silk and steel strings, is going to make a difference no matter what your current level and ability is – take it from me, the new Slash. Read more reviews.
 

Brand	Martin
Model	M130
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	Silk & Steel
Gauge	Light, .0115; .014; .023; .028; .038; .047
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

A clip from YouTube on Martin M130 Silk and Steel Strings.

My Overall Rating:

Martin MSP4150 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

Martin MSP4150 is a combination of high performance and great string quality. This Studio Performance Series is ideal for musicians with high expectation. It is made of high quality steel core and plain strings plated with an acoustic bronze finish.

Guitar strings are not just guitar strings – they are very personal because everyone has a different “ear”. Not everyone hears the same tones or quality in guitar strings. Martin guitar strings are one of the better quality stings. You don’t even have to own a martin guitar to use their strings. It depends on the sound you’re looking for in your guitar.

Martin Guitars has been around since 1833 and are considered one of the finest in guitar making. They are also one of the oldest guitar makers in the world. They have been setting the standards for styles of guitars for many years and their guitar strings are some of the finest around. They have been hand made since the inception of Martin Guitars and even though technology has come to the life of guitar making they still produce the finest in strings.

The Martin MSP4150 SP strings can be used on any guitar but they are designed for the Martin Guitar so naturally they sound best on one. They have been used by some of the biggest in icons rock stars, country, folk and bluegrass stars. You can see Martin guitar strings in videos and on MTV and even on television shows. But they are a personal choice.

Unlike other medium gauge strings, Martin MSP4150 will not exerting too much tension on your guitar. These light-medium strings exert exactly the right amount of pull on your guitar and give you a beautiful and loud tone. These strings are very finger friendly and give you a good feel on your fingertips.

Whether you’re just starting out learning to play a guitar or are a veteran guitar player, you’ll find owning and using Martin strings gives you the sound you’re looking for on your guitar. If you’re looking for a bright, deep supporting tone plus longevity then Martin strings will bring out the best in your playing. You might even be surprised at how long they last no matter how many gigs, rehearsals and shows you do, they do resist breakage better than other guitar strings. If you’re looking to make your guitar shine with beauty then the golden bronze finish of the Martin SP strings will enhance the beauty of your guitar while providing superior tonal quality.

Martin has been making quality strings for a very long time. The MSP4150 is simply a great set of light-medium strings at a very affordable price. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Martin & Co.
Model	MSP4150
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	Phosphor Bronze
Gauge	Light-Medium, .0125 - .055
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

K. Perry
I have been playing with Martin acoustic steel strings on my Takamine acoustic for years. All Martin products in general have been good. (Playing guitar for 11 years.) [Read full review]

My Overall Rating:

Martin MSP4200 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

If you already own an acoustic guitar or are looking to buy one the one of the important things you need to consider is what strings are you going to use. This can be a challenge for a novice as there is such a wide variety within the strings section of the market. Strings are sold based on strength, material they are made from and brand. Martin MSP4200 Phosphor Bronze strings are ideal for guitarist who loves deep, rich basses and clear tone. These 92/8 phosphor bronze are wounded to precise specifications and designed for daily picking.

Martin MSP4200 acoustic guitar strings use a winding alloy that makes crisp and clear treble tones while offering the deepest and richest of bass tones. They are specifically made to endure all manner of everyday playing and provide good longevity with that in mind.

Being a Martin strings fan for years, I could tell that these Martin SP strings are produced to strict, exacting standards. They never intentionally send out below par strings for retailing. They are wound with expertise and finesse to ensure that they sound great, last long and are easy to use. What make Martin MSP4200 different from other strings is they are good quality strings at low price. These strings deliver beautiful tone and last long too. You don’t have to worry about easy breakage with Martin MSP4200.

Reviews of these Martin MSP4200 strings on the whole have been positive. A few niggles here and there are dwarfed in comparison to the raves about the ease of stringing a guitar with these and the different in sound they can give to a guitar in comparison to other brands. The price seems to be a shining glory as they out price many big guns in the string business, but offer the same quality and in some cases even better quality than their rivals.

Many reviewers have commented that now they have used Martin strings that they would never use another make of strings again. They are best matched with a smaller guitar as there is less string tension and therefore more comfortable to use than if you used them on a full-size guitar. Smaller guitars by nature are less powerful and often harder to project sound with, by using these Martin medium strings this will lend a helping hand to produce more vibrant, attention grabbing sounds.

Whether novice or seasoned pro, the reviews speak for themselves, the Martin MSP4200 strings are strings that offer more than their competitors for a fraction of the price. Simply put Martin MSP4200 on your guitar and tune it, you will be amaze by its fabulous tone. They will definitely blow you away. Read more reviews.
 

Brand	Martin
Model	MSP4200
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	92/8 Phosphor Bronze
Gauge	Medium
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

Anton Lemeza
Put these on a Hohner Acoustic to replace some nylon strings it had. SUCH an improvement. Completely different sound. Crisp, clean, just amazing. Cant beat that price either. Snag a set of these! Not much else to say, Martin knows what they’re doing. [Read full review]

A clip from YouTube on Martin MSP4200.

My Overall Rating:

Martin MSP4100 is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

C. F. Martin & Co. not only produce guitar, they design and make guitar strings as well. This Martin SP strings (Studio Performance series) is one of their great launch and ideal for live performance or studio. The Martin MSP 4100 are made to deliver outstanding tone.

I bought my pack of Martin MSP4100 not too long ago. Had always been a fan of D’Addario acoustic strings, this is the first time I try on Martin SP. And I must say I’m very please with the result. These strings use a brass electro plating on the non wound strings. What you will get is a softer and fuller tone.

Like D’Addario strings, Martin MSP4100 is also very consistent. From day one I put them on my Martin guitar, they sound absolutely amazing. Is almost 2 months now, and they haven’t lost any of that perfect sound. While I slight, the Martins seems singing in fuller and more complete tone if compare to the D’Addario.

I must agree with many people’s opinion that your perfect string is ultimately come down to your guitar and your ears. It’s kind of personal preference. So I would suggest you to give Martin MSP4100 a try. Feel them on your guitar. You might found they are perfect for you. Read more reviews.
 

Brand	Martin & Co.
Model	MSP4100
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	Phosphor Bronze
Coated / Non-coated	Non-coated
Gauge	Light
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

What other user comment about Martin MSP4100 Strings:

D. Leach

Prior to using these I would break strings constantly. After a very long period of trying every string out there it was an easy choice. They are the only strings I use now, and occasional efforts to find something better have failed. Super reliable, tough, and they sound fantastic on my Rainsong Jumbo. I haven’t done a lot of reviews, but I truly think these are the best acoustic strings you can buy. [Read original review here..]

A clip from YouTube on Martin MSP4100.

My Overall Rating:

Martin FX is currently on sale on Amazon US / Amazon UK.

If you are need of quality guitar strings for your acoustic guitar, you may want to consider the Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings. Depending on your particular needs in terms of tone, your experience level and budget, these strings may or may not be a good option. You will find more information about Martin Guitar strings, particular the Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic guitar strings here, in this brief review.

Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings are made with thin core wire. This helps to improve flexibility and harmonic sustain. It also gives guitarists more playing control. What is especially nice is that the advanced core wire manages to do all of the aforementioned without sacrificing playability, durability or tone.
These are light gauge strings with the tension measuring 164.8. String gauge measures the diameter or thickness of the strings. They are measured in thousandths of an inch.

When deciding on which Martin acoustic strings a person should buy, a few considerations need to be made, amongst them, price, string type, string gauge, required tone and the age of the guitar. The right strings will affect the quality of the sound.

Price will be an important consideration for some people, though obviously not for everyone. If it is, it is important to avoid paying more money than one has to on strings. Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings are very affordable and can typically be purchased for less than $5.00.

As mentioned above, the gauge of the string, measures its diameter. There are four primary gauge options for acoustic guitars. They are Extra Light, Custom Light, Light and Medium gauge. The Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings have a light gauge, which measure between 12 and 54. These are often used by professional musicians.
The tone a guitar player is seeking will also affect their strings choice. Bronze strings are great for people who want a bright and clear tone. These strings, however, have one downside. They tone tends to fade. Phosphor Bronze Strings, which the Martin FX740s are, are ideal for warm tones with long holds.

Individuals in need of affordable, high quality guitar strings may want to consider the Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings. This is especially true of individuals that desire to play warm tones with long holds and who want light gauge strings. Martin FX740 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings are a great option for professional players who play their guitars regularly. Martin guitar strings come highly recommended and are generally rated quite high by guitarists.

I used to be a fan of Martin SP. Once I tried the FX series on my Lowden, I fell in love with them immediately! They are the best for finger picking and totally suit my style. These strings produce great tone and note separation. They are easy on my fingers especially for bends and slides. I love the feel and sound. And they seem to last just as well as the others. Read more user reviews.
 

Brand	Martin
Model	FX740
Type	Acoustic Strings
Wrap Wire	92/8 Phosphor Bronze
Gauge	Light:.012 - .054
Consumer Rating
Price Range	Discount price on Amazon US / Amazon UK

There’s something special about Martin strings. They give excellent clarity, tone and response. They are ideal for live studio performance with deeper, louder tone plus great sustainability. One of their best selling model among guitarists is Martin Phosphor Bronze MSP4100 Light SP, which is a light gauge made better by SP coating. With 92/08 Phosphor Bronze, it will give you a very warm tone.

If you are looking for rich bronze sound but on a tight budget, Martin Acoustic Guitar Strings could be a great option for you. These strings are best to bring out the character of your guitar!

Acoustic guitar strings consist of many type of gauges & brands. Guitar newbie often get confused as to what type of strings and brand to buy for his guitar. A very common question pop up in newbie’s mind is which is the best acoustic guitar strings brand for me?

As what we have learned from previous article, there are four main gauge options for Acoustic Guitar:

• Extra light 10 – 46. Easiest to play and least tension. Good for beginners but prone to producing a thin sound.
  

• Custom Light Gauge 11 – 52. Ease of playing maintained and produces slightly richer fuller sound.
  

• Light Gauge 12 – 54. Popular with professional musicians. Higher tuning stability. Not recommended for budget guitar due to higher tension.
  

• Medium Gauge 13 – 56. One of the highest gauges. Very big, rich tone but difficult to play on some guitars due to high tension.
  

For a guitar beginner, there are suggestions to opt for lighter strings because it’s easier to press down and simple to play. However there’s no “The Best Brand” in the market. Choosing a certain brand is more on personal preference.

You may want to check out these popular brands in the market: Elixir, D’Addario, Martin, Ernie Ball, etc. Try out few brands and test them to find the best suit you. Personally, I would prefer Elixir’s extra light strings because it is easier to press and last pretty long. Sometimes after you changed to light gauge strings, you still find it’s difficult to press the strings down. You might want to take your guitar to shops and have it checked. Your guitar “action” (height of strings off the fingerboard) might be a bit too high. This problem can be solved by getting guitar repair shop to lower the action for you.

Our next article: How to restring acoustic guitar

1. Composition
2. Gauge
3. Brand

Composition

Guitar strings made from material like nickel, stainless, bronze, phosphor bronze, etc. Acoustic guitar use steel strings and classical use nylon. Electric guitars usually use steel strings too. In this article, we will review steel strings instead of nylon, since they are the most common used.

Guitar strings types could also be classified as wound & unwound strings.

a. Wound Strings: A thinner wire wrap with a steel core (usually bronze, nickel or steel). Wound strings are thick and strong. It normally used for the lower registers.

b. Unwound Strings: Unwound strings (also known as standard strings) are generally used for the upper registers. It’s thinner with a higher pitch.

Different type of string and wrapping metals will affect the sound of the string. Bronze is usually considered to have a ‘bright’ sound, which steel is more mellow & softer, especially when wrapped in nickel.

How the string is wrapped could also impact the sound. Although ‘Rround wound’ strings are loud and vibrant, it can be hard on the neck of your guitar and produce noise when sliding your fingers over them. ‘Flat wound’ strings are not as crisp sounding and are easier on frets and fingers.

Gauge

Next, we look at the gauge of the string, ie the thickness or diameter. There are 4 main gauges for Acoustic Guitar strings:

• Extra light 10 – 46. Easiest to play and least tension. Good for beginners but prone to producing a thin sound.
• Custom Light Gauge 11 – 52. Ease of playing maintained and produces slightly richer fuller sound.
• Light Gauge 12 – 54. Popular with professional musicians. Higher tuning stability. Not recommended for budget guitar due to higher tension.
• Medium Gauge 13 – 56. One of the highest gauges. Very big, rich tone but difficult to play on some guitars due to high tension.

Thicker strings sound louder, but they are also under more tension to maintain the required pitch. This can make them hard to play, as the pressure required to push the string down behind the fret is considerable.

To avoid buzzing against the frets, thicker strings usually have to be mounted a bit higher off the soundboard than thin strings. This may slow down the “action” of the instrument, making it more difficult to play quickly.

Brand

So which brand to choose? That is up to your own preference & budget. Each brand has its own solid characteristics, but what works for one person might not sound right to another. The best thing you can do is buy 2 or 3 packs of strings from different makers. Test it and see which one sounds the best to you.

One thing for sure is, choosing appropriate strings will aid technique, enhance quality and improve confidence of the guitar player.

So by now you had basic understanding on guitar strings types, let’s move on to next article: When Should We Replace Guitar Strings?