C.F. Martin Strings
C.F. Martin still makes strings in-house because they believe strings are essential to the sound and feel of an instrument. Martin applies the same care and craftsmanship to the design, sourcing, and manufacturing of Martin strings as they apply to every Martin guitar. They set the highest industry standards for quality and design, especially with their SP core wire. Martin sources all metals according to precise specifications. Martin even designs and builds its string-winding equipment, ensuring that each string meets daily rigorous quality testing at its factory.
Martin strings most guitars with 92/8 phosphor bronze Martin SP Lifespan acoustic guitar strings, such as the MA540T set. These strings feature an exclusive high-tensile strength core wire that holds tuning better and resists breaking. All six strings receive a proprietary treatment that enhances their lifespan. Most non-cutaway dreadnoughts and jumbo guitars are strung with medium gauge strings, while most X-series, cutaways, and smaller models like the 000 and 00 come with light gauge strings. Most 12-string guitars come with extra light gauge strings, while nylon-stringed guitars get Martin Classic strings.
C.F. Martin 92/8 phosphor bronze strings have a higher copper content than Martin 80/20 bronze strings, resulting in a different tonal character. While 80/20 bronze strings start with a bright attack and mellow quickly, phosphor bronze strings maintain a warmer, more consistent tone with greater complexity over time. Although Martin typically strings their instruments at the factory with 92/8 phosphor bronze strings, some models may ship with alternative Martin strings.
Most string makers wind acoustic strings on a hex-shaped core wire with a single layer of wrap wire. Martin takes a different approach with their Silk and Steel sets, using a round core wire wrapped with a soft material. Martin then wraps a silver-plated copper wire (Silk & Steel) or 92/8 phosphor bronze wire (Silk & Phosphor) as the outer layer. This process softens the tone and provides a comfortable feel under the fingers, making these strings popular in folk and singer/songwriter genres.
Martin created Marquis strings with your guitar's well-being in mind. By adding a soft wrap near the ball ends, these strings provide a protective layer that helps prevent wear and tear on the bridge and end plate as you play. They can also help seat loose bridge pins, ensuring your guitar is always in safe hands with Marquis strings.
C.F. Martin strings are not just for Martin guitars. They work well on almost any brand or style of guitar, making them a versatile and reliable choice for any musician.