Acoustic Strings, round 2

Tannin

MSedg said:

I’ve been reading about the Santa Cruz strings today having been on a similar journey. Where the best place to get them in UK? Strings Direct is my usual haunt but don’t seem to carry them.

Probably Strings by Mail. http://stringsbymail.com Prompt service and very reasonable prices - much better than any UK dealer I know of. Even after you pay some extortion to the border control people, you'll still be well in front.

artiebear

Mellish said:

@artiebear ; - that's what I did when I found the perfect strings for my HD-28, bought by the box (10 sets).

With a new guitar though, like my Gibson Dove Original, I'm finding out what strings suit, so I'm cautious and buying sets singly or two at most  

I agree with your caution. What works on a Martin can be so off on a Gibson. I like a nice bright big tone on a Martin, but always prefer something sweeter on a corresponding Gibson.

Gomers

Have to say I'm totally on board with Martin Retros 12's on my 000-15, very nice to the touch, very mellow and with less tension than similar gauge strings from other makers.  I did try them on a 000-28 and they didn't work for me but think that may have been the guitar more than the strings.

Going to try them on my LL-500 as it's a brighter guitar than a rosewood Martin.

stickyfiddle

Gomers said:

Have to say I'm totally on board with Martin Retros 12's on my 000-15, very nice to the touch, very mellow and with less tension than similar gauge strings from other makers.  I did try them on a 000-28 and they didn't work for me but think that may have been the guitar more than the strings.

Going to try them on my LL-500 as it's a brighter guitar than a rosewood Martin.

Yeah, I do think they're great strings for the right guitar. And the right guitar seems to involve anything with those classic spruce + rosewood/mahogany combinations.