Martin 00 String Choices

[TDavis]

Originally Posted by JTFoote

I'm using John Pearse 80/20 lights on my Martin 00. I like 80/20 strings on mahogany guitars, (with mahogany or spruce tops) both - for the clear, woody, resonant tonality they produce, and because of the balanced tension across the neck. JP 80/20 string have a wonderful, smooth, dynamically-sensitive feel, and the sound is "cleaner", minus some of the lushness and warmth of phosphor-bronze; which to me, on a mahogany guitar, is nearly overkill.

My 00 originally came with Retro lights, which I felt were stiff ... something I've noticed on previous occasions when I've auditioned Martin strings. And the natural resonance of the guitar seemed muted. My luthier did the initial set-up with light D'Addario phosphor-bronze (possibly because it was closest to what I'd told him would be going on the guitar), but I didn't care for how they sounded (a little muddy in the mid-range, and a bit too light in the bass) ... and the wraps on D'Addario strings have always felt rough to me. I didn't mind him using them - it helped settle any possible mental argument I was having about switching to the 80/20 strings.

80/20 strings and this Martin are a very fine match, indeed.

... JT

What gauge stretch do you use of the PB Lights? Have you tried the PB “New Standard” 80/20 lights? Do the PB’s still capture the 00-18’s resonance? That’s where the D’Addario’s fail IMO, they “fall off” too fast, and don’t let the guitar ring.

[Placida]

Originally Posted by JoePa and Son

Santa Cruz Mid tension on our OODB (Tweedy signature)

Please tell me more about tension parameters for these strings in comparison to same-size strings of other brands.

[silvereagle48]

Elixir phosphor bronze custom lights

[Fishfood]

One thing I should add to my love for the NB vs Monel is that I'm a much better guitar player with the Monels. They are way softer to the touch and easier to play... for me at least.

[jazzguy]

I use Elixir PB Nanoweb Lights. Love em.