MARTIN AUTHENTIC ACOUSTIC STRINGS
£ Various
Martin recently overhauled its Standard Series acoustics; now its strings have received a spring clean, too. The new Authentic Acoustic range replaces Martin’s longstanding Acoustic, SP, Marquis and Lifespan strings with a streamlined offer of three core product lines. First up is the Authentic Acoustic Superior Performance line, which uses Martin’s highest-tensile-strength wire and is tin-plated for corrosion resistance. Like the other two new ranges, it is available in 80/20 Bronze (£7.99) and Phosphor Bronze (£8.49) sets and appears to be the new ‘standard’ line, with an upgraded spec. The premium-grade Authentic Acoustic Marquis Silked range is aimed at players with high-end guitars – a silk wrap on the ball ends protects bridges from wear and tear – and is also available in 80/20 (£8.99) and Phosphor Bronze (£9.49). Last up is the Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 Treated range, which is Martin’s long-life offering. Rather than being a coated string, the Lifespan 2.0 Treated relies on a new, patented metal-treatment process that offers, Martin says, “properties of reduced finger drag and exceptional longevity”. The 80/20 version costs £14.99; the Phosphor Bronze set is £15.49. www.martinguitar.com