Strings for Martins

Play around not only with brands but materials.  If you want it to ring out like a piano, then try some bronze strings.  If you want to do some fast bluegrass picking along with banjo players and want some twang, then go to nickel.  For the deep rich bass you describe, maybe some D'Addorio silk and steel.  Warning, the silk and steel wear out in about 63 seconds.  Well, maybe a 'little' longer than that.  But they do lose their punch fast.  But while they've got their punch they sound very resonant. 

I've been enjoying the elixer nanos for a while but recently bought some D'Addorio EXP coated just to give them a whirl. 

Also, for bigger bass, try bigger strings.  Mediums if you are used to using Lights or something like that.  Any Martin ought to be able to handle the tension requirements of Mediums. 

Submitted for your consideration.  I'm no string expert, but I've played around a lot with different brands and materials and thicknesses and these are my observations with my guitar.  Your mileage may vary. 

- Zurf

Hey Cam,

I have tried and used EXP's , Elixir Poly, & Nano webs, gibson, John Pearse, and others I can't remember, But to my ears I like Martin SP  12-54's the best and they seem to last nearly as long as the elixirs. All my other guitars I am using elixir nano's.
Everyone has strong opinions on strings, this is just what works for me

I think Pix prefers Martin strings on his also, kind of weird but I just feel mine sounds better with Martin strings.

Guitarpix.  One D18 us enough for any man.  How about we start a new 'round the world' thread and send your spare D18.  I volunteer to be the first recipient...

- Zurf

I want second on that, Zurf.  You'd probably send me a Silvertone or Rogue.  Yeah, nobody should own two D18's.

Sounds like a plan   If I still had them I bought the first one about 2 years ago (2008 model) and then sold it about 3 months later... Then I bought a early 80's model last year but sold it after 3-4 months as well. The tone was fine on both but the necks just don't fit my hands well. I like more radius to my fretboards... Martins are rather flat which is great for bends and such since they don't fretout but that and the neck profile combined was just too uncomfortable in my hands for my playing style. I've had my eye open for a 000-15s for fingerwork though... Got to give them one more try before I wash my hands of them -Pix

That's what I was thinkin'

Hi cam,of all the strings I have tried I liked the sound of the fenders strings the best. and martins after that. I use D'addarios on my guitars because they are in my price range as I have oily skin and have to replace them alot. I want my name added to pixs list for the D18,someday I will get my own!!

Thanks for all your suggestions guys, I think when I change them I'm kinda, sorta, leaning towards the Martin SP's, just to give them a listen, if I don't like them, I can always change them, thanks again everybody.

Cam