Restring Acoustic Guitar Martin For Sale (2024 Update)

Whenever I buy or replace guitar strings on all my acoustic guitars-I always go with martins. They are by far the best strings out there with a better Sound-I put them on every new or used acoustic guitar I have ever owns! Why? Because they are simply the best acoustic strings out there. Only 1 thing about the Martin strings that kind of upsets me. Is they used to always make sure you got 2 first e, strings in every set. Don"t no why they ever stopped doing it. But wish all guitar strings would place 2 first E, Strings on all guitar strings. Maybe they all just decided to let them break it & they will have to buy another whole new pack.I guess these guitar companies -all of them even though they are All already filthy rich -Just have to make another dollar.theemann54

I have purchased several different Martin strings lately (SP's, Marquis, Flex Core, Retro) and found these to be the most well behaved, if you do a lot of strumming. They also sound very good when you punch in a couple of melody notes along the way. For being their least expensive strings, it just adds to the list of good and different possibilities. I was pretty happy with the results. The guitar that I put these on is a Dreadnought known for the wide range in tone from string to string, but these are surprisingly well balanced. I don't know how long they are going to last, but very good first impression.PopStar

As a professional singer-songwriter in the San Francisco Bay Area, I like to keep my guitar strings fresh-sounding. I just installed a set of Aegean extra-light bronze wound strings on my guitar and am very happy with the sound, which is full at the low end and bright at the high end. Compared with the more-expensive Martin extra-lights I've been using, the Aegeans seem a bit louder and more raucous sounding in the mids and highs, making them a great choice for folk-rock, Americana and delta blues. The Aegeans are also a little shorter than the Martins, so there's less extra string left dangling from the tuners. It's hard to go wrong with these strings.stevtaylo_291

The Martin Extra Light 10 to 47 strings work very well on my Martin D28. They sound like Martin and are great for live gigs. Affordable strings for live Musician…Vernon

Definitely easier to play, but a bit lacking in tone( especially base). Big difference to a set of custom lights. Depends on your priorities! Barre chords and string bends noticeably easier to bring off.alex m.

These strings are a great find. Read reviews and ordered from Strings Direct. I put them on my 5 year old Ibanez art wood acoustic and the improvement was amazing. I had stopped playing it as I didn’t much like it but now I love it!!!Alyson J.

Strings are excellent for day to day playing, the coating does provide some protection from humidity and sweat. However, some of the strings in the bulk boxing can be difficult at times to dispense.Brian

I bought these because my local store was out of Daddario EXP 26 strings that I am using. I was using Elixir Custom Lights before that, but I changed to EXP 26 since the G string of the Elixirs was constantly breaking. Comparing this set of Martin MSP4050s with the coated strings I used previously, I found that the Martin strings were the hardest to play with very high tension (hard to bend) and they were also very painful to slide your finger across. Sound-wise they are really good and warm sounding and they get brighter the harder you pick the strings which feels very responsive. Although I haven't used these for long, the Martins feel more durable than the Elixirs but I am expecting some degradation in sound over time since these are not coated. Due to the extremely low playability which I wouldn't expect from a .011 set I found these to be of little use to me. But if you don't use full note bends or slides a lot then you may benefit from the beautiful sound of the strings.ayf

Don't go by me, I change my mind on guitar strings about once a week. But for what it's worth, these are great strings. I've had a few injuries to my left index finger over the years. These days, I use them on my acoustic guitars for comfort. I've switched to D'addario, and nickel based strings for my electrics.George

I never get involved with commentary of products, but I feel obligated to say WOW, with Martins new Authentic Acoustic line of strings. Installed the PB variety on my 000-28ec, my Gibson sj200, and my Collings CJmh, in each case there was an immediate improvement in all areas of tone. Pardon the cliche', but in every way the guitars came to life. Great sustain, solid bass, and smooth bell like treble. I have tried many strings over the years, and yes there are differences, but never tothe degree I hear with these. A vast improvement in all areas, IMOP. Can't say how long they'll last, haven't had them on that long. Ther worth a try to any guitar out there. And I will always buy from Strings and Beyond. They have always been courteous, professional, ship quickly, and competitively priced. Thanks.Mark

For the last couple years, I’ve been comparing these Lifespan 12-54 against other coated phosphor-bronze sets: D’Addario EXP 12-53 & D’Addario XT 12-53 & D’Addario XS 12-53 & Elixir’s Light nano set. These Martin Lifespan strings have given me no issues, except that my low E string bridge pin doesn’t quite want to press all the way in (due to being cut for a 53 vs 54 gauge string). I didn’t think that small variation would matter, but it seems to! Even with the bridge pin slightly protruding higher than the others, these strings sound great and have lasted quite a long time without degrading in tone or feel. My pick eventually does cut up the coating, which visibly frays and starts to dull the string sound. But, this is after much time and use. I like the sound and feel of the strings, and will now be comparing them to the new D’Addario XS strings, which claim to survive picking better than any other string, while using a thinner coating. We shall see! At this time I can report that I like the Martin Lifespans fairly equally to D’Addario EXPs, which sound and respond better (in my experience) than Elixir’s comparable strings. I have not yet concluded my XT and XS testing to compare, but I expect them to perform as (or more) durably as these Lifespans. I anticipate the XS strings to sound and respond more like uncoated strings than the others listed above (including these Lifespans) while potentially surviving more punishment from my pointy Dunlop Primetone Flow plectrums! I’ll review the XS performance on that listing after finding the results. I have been pretty satisfied with these Lifespans, but not blown away in comparison to D’Addario’s coated offerings. They’re competitive and if you’re a Martin lover, these are an easy set-it-and-forget-it option that give a longer replacement cycle than Martin’s uncoated strings without sounding completely dull. You can get a still good low-end brassy growl on these until their coating starts to fray. However, you’ll definitely also want to try a set of D’Addario’s coated strings to pick a favorite based on their response with your own guitar, picking technique, and sound preferences. I found Lifespans to be pretty stable for intonation and gradually become less strident/bright in tone through use (wear at the picking location). D’Addario lights may have a touch less power (fundamental frequency) on the lowest string. They both respond well and sustain well on my guitar, with the D’Addarios remaining extremely stable with intonation. [For reference, the strings mentioned here were all installed on a very fine Larrivee LV-10 (sitka & EIT) built around year 2000. The guitar has a TON of rich mid-to-high overtone presence and excellent string-to-string balance with good dynamic range and sustain. Most strings sound pretty good on it, but the timbre does noticeably change with different strings. These changes in overtone prominence are difficult to express in a written review…. Larrivee calls for D’Addario 12-53 gauge phosphor bronze strings. Bridge pins are ebony (like the bridge).]Daniel

Years ago I bought a cheap Esteban acoustic guitar to practice with when I was laid up with a broken ankle. Wasn't a bad guitar but you get what up pay for. I decided to take it out of the case and put new strings on it. WOW ! These MA530 strings made a world of difference. Now that old cheap guitar sounds and plays great! What a difference a new set of strings make. These strings made a big difference. These strings and make even a cheap guitar sound and play great !Dan K.

The strings were great for their specific purpose. I put them on my travel guitar. I don't want a lot of volume or a finger workout when playing this guitar. I just want to sit in my hotel room and play without disturbing anyone. For my regular guitar I would buy a higher gauge of string.Steve

I've played Martin strings fir a while, however, always a heavier gauge. I tried these out and immediately liked them. Longevity of them is my only concern coming from heavy gauge strings. I doubt it will be an issue, but will update if it is.Dave S

I was hoping to remove some of the ringing I hear from D'Addario strings. Didn't work. I down tune one whole step so that I can use arrangements for tenors and still sing them. Went to heavy strings but they are too hard on my fingers and they still ring. When I tune up to concert pitch, the problem goes away. Clearly, this is really not a product judgement, but a misapplication.Rex

I wanted to experiment & give these Retro strings a try. I installed these on my '87 Martin HD2832 Shenandoah with V neck (super comfy) which has a warm tone, getting better with age. I was not aware that these Retro strings were all nickel so I love how they bring out the nickel hardware on the head stock (see attached pic). Comparing these Retro strings to the med gauge 80/20 bronze Martin Marquis that I usually play, these Retro strings are just as warm and comfy, especially when finger picking. If bass is at 'noon', so is the brightness, even throughout. (When comparing to another brand, these Retros sound and feel just as great as the med gauge bronze Ernie Ball Earthwoods that I occasionally play.) I've been playing bronze strings for so long that I'd have to hear the nickle and bronze played back to back in order to hear a difference, if any. These Retros have a nice punch when strumming and leads are rich & full. I have no doubt they'll last just as long as the Martin Marquis. Looks like I've found another set of Martin strings that I'll play for awhile…I believe Martin strings play better as they get older.John564Holloway

These strings add quite a bit of nostalgia to a acoustic stage performance. The kind where only microphones are used to enhance the performance.. And they also sound good when running the music through the guitar's pickup… good performance string all around… But they still don't make you play things right, they just make yer mistakes sound good… LOLedonharley

These really sound great on my Martin D-18. They're pretty much perfect for that guitar. They sound great when you put them on and still sound great months later. I also tried them on my Martin HD-28, but to me they sounded dull and thumpy on it. Either way, give them a try. They might just be perfect for you.Chris

I got these to trade down to lights on the Martin DCPA4, a rather wide neck, seemingly but a grand guitar. I like they way they sounded acoustically but putting the guitar thru the PA, the low strings sounded cardboardy to me. The high end was bright, which wasn't bad but I'm looking from strong as apposed to bright. I'm mainly a flat picker although I do trade off. Had been using the SP mediums but I needed a break on the gauge. I like the way they feel, the gauge is good and unamplified, not bad but I'm going to the M140s or try a light SP although the high end on the SPs is a little dull for my ear.Bottlefinger

I have used several varieties of Martin strings. I have been satisfied with all of them. Except for the Retro Monel strings, I can't tell much difference between the different sets. These have a cloth wrap at the ball end for extra bridge protection on valuable instruments. Other than that, they are Martin's basic acoustic set. These just happened to be on sale the day I ordered.Thomas

For many years the Martin M140 ruled the acoustic guitar world, then sadly one day they disappeared. Now the sound that you've heard on many (many) Woodstock era recordings is back. You MUST give these a try. You'll be a believer!Rocky G.

I was out on the road when I broke two strings on my acoustic guitar. As luck would have, I was visiting one of those lovely European countries, whose stores close on Sunday. Understandable. Store owners also want to go and visit the festival where things are happening. So, a fellow guitarist introduced these to me. I felt silly, because I had never up to that point associated the Martin brand with strings rather only their (quite popular) acoustic guitars. After trying these, I've been purchasing from the Martin line of strings ever since. Martin strings now adorn my mandolin as well.Boyan P.

For many years the Martin M140 ruled the acoustic guitar world, then sadly one day they disappeared. Now the sound that you've heard on many (many) Woodstock era recordings is back. You MUST give these a try. You'll be a believer!Rocky G.

I was out on the road when I broke two strings on my acoustic guitar. As luck would have, I was visiting one of those lovely European countries, whose stores close on Sunday. Understandable. Store owners also want to go and visit the festival where things are happening. So, a fellow guitarist introduced these to me. I felt silly, because I had never up to that point associated the Martin brand with strings rather only their (quite popular) acoustic guitars. After trying these, I've been purchasing from the Martin line of strings ever since. Martin strings now adorn my mandolin as well.Boyan P.

I put these on my 2019 j45 and they sound absolutely magnificent! The guitar already sounded great but these are indescribably beautifulDanny

I got a deal on a bunch of EXPs and SP+ a few years ago and finally used them all. Both of those worked well for me. I bought some of the Lifespan SP in light and medium. I use them on a D18GE, HD28V and J45TV. My hands don't sweat much, and I don't wipe my strings after playing. These strings last well for 2-4 months. Given the price, especially after the price drop, I plan on using these as long as I can. I see nothing any better out there for my purposes. I do have to say that the D'Addario EJ16 and EJ17 are my favorite strings, but their lifespan just isn't long enough for me.GaryH

I put these strings (light gauge) on two guitars . One is 1930's ladder braced acoustic and the other an 000 sized acoustic I built with redwood top and walnut back and sides. Both guitars have a tendency for a bright tone. The first 2 days on the guitars the treble range seemed harsh, almost brittle (hope you get the idea) and the bass frequencies were totally lacking. After a few days the treble harshness moderated some but overall these strings lacked the warm tone of the Elixir lights I had on before. I'm not saying these are bad strings, just that on these particular guitars they were not what I want to hear. If you have an acoustic whose tone is inherently dark or muddy I would recommend you give these strings a try. If your guitar has inherent bright tone these may be a set to avoid. The overall feel of the string surface and playing tension was comfortable but I noticed more finger squeak than when playing the Elixir lights.T Bone

I like these strings a lot. I put them on my Benito ( a Chilean guitar with old growth Alerce top and mahogany back and sides) and i like them a lot. I like the phosphor bronze on this guitar. These strings are easy to play and they last forever. I play once or twice a week and keep my guitar on the case however. I have had this set on since february 1st and they are not the least bit rusted or dead sounding. They have great sustain! They are very pleasing sounding. I don't know what Martin uses for coating, but i like it more than elixirs. Elixirs coating peels off in about 6 months, and they sound thin. They are not worth the money to me.guitarguy1981

For many years the Martin M140 ruled the acoustic guitar world, then sadly one day they disappeared. Now the sound that you've heard on many (many) Woodstock era recordings is back. You MUST give these a try. You'll be a believer!Rocky G.

I was out on the road when I broke two strings on my acoustic guitar. As luck would have, I was visiting one of those lovely European countries, whose stores close on Sunday. Understandable. Store owners also want to go and visit the festival where things are happening. So, a fellow guitarist introduced these to me. I felt silly, because I had never up to that point associated the Martin brand with strings rather only their (quite popular) acoustic guitars. After trying these, I've been purchasing from the Martin line of strings ever since. Martin strings now adorn my mandolin as well.Boyan P.

Lots of guitarist friends say these don't stay in tune. Granted takes a couple days to get them to stabilize (still just off tune), once they are there they are rock solid and sound as good as you would think Martin does. Silk is nice on the fingers as well.Brent

Great strings at a good price. I've used these for a couple of years on my Martin OMC15E (also bought from PMT!) and they sound great, last ages, and maintain tuning really well. Keep up the good work, PMT People!Chris T.

Brilliant sound, very very happy with these. Just remember to tune the 1st E slooooowly! Martins have been my go-to for a very long time for a reason though. They sound great and they'll get old before they snap.Charles H.

I cant afford elixirs since strings dont seem to last more than 2 gigs no matter what i buy. For the price these have the longest life without string breakage or tone loss. I have even pulled a full set off after a few gigs without breaking one. I also live individually packaged strings since i usually only break g & d strings.Matt

I put these strings on a older Alvarez guitar and all I can say is WOW what a voice change! The Martin Retro Monel Bluegrass string made my inexpensive student model guitar sound like a much higher end instrument. The clarity and sustain is so much better than the 80/20's I used to use and the life span is at least double if not triple of the 80/20's. Try a set you won't be sorry.Mark

I have been reading about pure nickel strings and I've wanted to give them a try. The Martin Retro reviews were good and if Tony Rice likes them and uses them, they must have something positive to offer. I've only had them on my dread (solid mahogany b/s and Adi top) for a couple of weeks…but I love them. I hear the tone of the guitars wood. Not too bright but also not too dark or muddy. Very mellow. Urban legend has it that they get better with age. We'll see. But they sounded good new and they guitar sounds great after two weeks. Too early to tell or comment on how long they stay this way. I will be buying more and use them again. Time to try them out on an OM.B

Replaced the dead right out of the box elixir string that SUCKED and these brought the guitar back to life and it now sounds and plays wonderfully. Highly suggested and as the string were in my box for a while and now the package has added Tony Rice's name to them even more highly suggestedDas Fuut

These strings add quite a bit of nostalgia to a acoustic stage performance. The kind where only microphones are used to enhance the performance.. And they also sound good when running the music through the guitar's pickup… good performance string all around… But they still don't make you play things right, they just make yer mistakes sound good… LOLedonharley

These really sound great on my Martin D-18. They're pretty much perfect for that guitar. They sound great when you put them on and still sound great months later. I also tried them on my Martin HD-28, but to me they sounded dull and thumpy on it. Either way, give them a try. They might just be perfect for you.Chris