STEEL OR NYLON STRINGS? Which sounds better? - AUDIO COMPARISON - Vintage Martin Parlor Guitar
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 ก.ย. 2024
- #vintageMartin #SteelorNylon #guitardiscoveries
Which sounds better on a vintage Martin? Steel strings or Nylon strings? You be the judge!
Robert Cassard modifies his historic 1889 Martin 0-28, built during the era of "gut" strings. As one of the early Martin X-braced guitars, the strength of the bracing allowed the guitar to be "converted" to steel strings in the early 1900s without damaging the top or neck.
But what was the true, historic tone of this beautiful instrument? Robert explores some Martin guitar history; tells the story of how a Spanish woman wowed US concert audiences, giving Martin an international reputation; and takes his 0-28 back to its original sound.
Featuring excerpts from Mood For a Day (Steve How/Yes), Lo Rapido and Asturias (Leyenda), hear what a true vintage Martin sound like!
Robert Cassard shares guitars, gear and tips to make you a better musician.
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Hi, my name is Robert Cassard. I'm a lifelong guitar player, singer-songwriter, producer, and music fanatic. I create Guitar and Recording Discoveries videos with a simple goal: to make YOU a better, happier, more confident musician!
In 2018, after more than 40 years as a pro musician, I started sharing my experiences through easy-to-understand TH-cam videos - giving you shortcuts to de-mystify playing, singing and recording.
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I love the sound from nylon strings, it gives it a lot more depth of tone! Beautiful.
Thanks Erika. I’m with you, especially for this guitar. It was almost too loud and bright with steel strings. Now it’s just perfect!
Robert Cassard Love it! 😁👌🏼
I love the sound of nylon strings, so I just recently bought a Cordoba C9 Crossover, with a 48 mm nut and 16” radius. Not too wide, not too narrow! It has a double action truss rod and sounds fantastic with high tension nylon strings (no cutaway, no big chunk of wood cut out of the side for electronics controls).
@@RobertCassard The KR116 Strings should also work (that'll be in a new video).
Nylon all the way on this guitar. It just comes to life. Very rich tone.
Couldn't agree more!
th-cam.com/video/V14ICL42JZs/w-d-xo.html Here's another one of these Parlor Guitars strung w/ Ball End Nylon Strings, & as it turns out, it was meant for these strings to keep it from Collapsing.
The nylon strings were softer and warmer, while maintaining the crisp sound. By softer, I did not mean volume. I meant texture. Similar to the analogy of an all mahogany guitar compared to rosewood and spruce. This guitar sounds more what it originally was meant to sound like back in its day, with the nylon strings. Strictly just my opinion.
I agree completely. I always thought it was a great guitar with steel strings, but it knocks me out with nylons!
👍👍 wow, that's a beautiful little guitar.
personally I like it better with the folk strings but it sounds great with the steels also. either way you can't go wrong.
Very nice 👏👏👏
It sounds sweet either way, but the balance is better with the nylons, not surprisingly, since they’re more similar to what CF Martin designed the guitar to have. Glad you like it, too!
Thank you for this wonderful presentation and comparison of the sonic possibilities of this extraordinary instrument, it sounds great with steel and nylon strings. Personally, I would have a big problem which one to choose, although they were not the best nylon strings, but only cheap / good cheap / amateur ones, so with good strings classic ones, maybe even with real gut strings, such as Gut & Silk 900 from Aquila, which are period correct, I put such strings on guitars with pins on the bridge using attached steel string ends - it works perfectly. There is a presentation on YT of an even older Martin and her ability to play classical music - the title of this vlog is WHAT A 180 YEAR OLD MARTIN GUITAR SOUNDS LIKE. Best regards Suavic
Thank you, Suavic. I have since replaced the D'Addario Folk Nylon strings with Aquila Nylgut and the sound is even sweeter.
Beautiful instrument. Even more beautiful with the nylon strings. Gorgeous tone. You are very lucky to be it's custodian. Real history right there.
Couldn't agree more! I've since discovered the guitar was built in 1889, so it's 135 years old this year.
@UCWAl8GGqChRYwGQRzeeDGBg
Turns out these Guitars were originally designed for Gut Strings, but today we substitute that w/ Nylon Strings. Thomastik does make Classic S Strings which are Flatwound Strings designed for Classical Guitars which will save the frets from scratches.
Good suggestion, Oscar. Thanks!
@@RobertCassard These strings even have silk wound around both ends to protect them which is a big plus.
@@RobertCassard Thomastik Classic S (KR116 which would look the same) Strings really have that original sound, & saving those frets from scratches will be a huge plus. Can't wait to hear how they sound.
Excellent demo of something we rarely get to hear. Well done!
Thanks so much, Scott. I hope you’ll subscribe so you get notified of other videos like this!
I'm stunned. Just beautiful. I'm rebuilding a parlor guitar from the same period that looks and is built like a Martin 2-24 with equivalent woods. I can only hope it will sound like yours when I'm finished. I plan to use nylon strings.
Thank you, Lorenzo! Excited to hear about your “new” parlor rebuilding project. Come back and tell me how it turns out!
Hello Robert. I completed the antique parlor guitar. The back had 18 cracks, the top had 7 cracks, and it needed a neck reset. The combination of top thickness and X bracing is too heavy for nylon strings, so I'm using silk and steel. The tone quailty is superb, and the action is low, so it's a joy to play.
@@lorenzodecarbon9914 Wow, Lorenzo. 25 cracks and a neck reset?! Glad it was worth the effort...nothing like 100+ year-old wood to sing and ring.
Hi, Robert--Definitely better sound with the nylon, with richer bass and even more volume. I'm not surprised because the steel strings have too high a tension for this instrument. There's a common misconception that going with higher tension strings, even just nylon-based ones, will produce more volume for any instrument. My understanding is that it depends on the instrument's design. Often, going with higher tension will reduce the volume because there's too much compression in the soundboard for its bracing and thickness.
Also, the color of nylon strings can affect tone. Some reports I've seen say that black nylon gives a rounder tone than "clear" nylon strings. Anyway, this is a beautiful sounding instrument and proves that more modern designs, like double tops, scalloped bracing, etc., don't necessarily improve on an old instrument designed by a master luthier.
Thanks for your comments and insights, @Fernwald84. I hadn't hear that nylon color could affect tone. I currently have my 0-28 strung with Aquila Nylgut strings, which are almost white or "alabaster." They're my favorite strings so far, all things considered.
That thing absolutely burst with magnificent tone oozing down the walls from the first note with the nylons!
I love the way you put that, Terran…and I agree!
Im believing the best guitar is one that is played. I have a "farari" that has no time to stretch its legs. Looking for a nylon parlor guitar. You think a gretsch g9500 would sould good with nylon?
You mean a Jim Dandy? They're cool little guitars and yeah, it would probably be dine with nylon. But you'd need ball-end strings and may well need to file the nut to make room for the wider strings.
OMG!! Can I string my modern OM28 with nylons??? Game changer!!
Ball-end nylon strings would definitely allow it, @johnrobertpalomo4283. You might need to do some minor luthery work to widen certain nut slots. Here's a link to the strings: amzn.to/3T7popq
Earl Klugh has played Jazz on a Nylon Acoustic so that should be interesting
Love Earl, always have.
@@RobertCassard Now you can play Earl Klugh's Music
What a gorgeous sound with the nylon strings, gives me chills!
I agree, Stephen. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Thanks for this comparison video about the different strings, and the history and bracing info. What is the actual nut width? You mentioned that it is "wider like a classical". Is it actually as wide as a classical nut, or is it somewhere between today's steel string nut width and today's classical width?
Thanks again
Thanks, Charlie. Your guess is correct: somewhere between today's steel string nut width and today's classical width. I haven't measured it, but it's probably 1/8" narrower. And the V-shaped back fo the neck makes it even easier to reach around to play.
Try gut strings. You will be surprised! Nylon is the cheap (mass) version of gut.
Is there a brand or source you recommend, Lorenzo?
A pro winder cutter will make restringing a snap w/o harming the Guitar
True, but I am super obsessive about this 1889 guitar, and I don't want to put any dings are marks in the headstock...
@@RobertCassard The Pro Winder Cutter is designed to avoid that problem. Yes the KF110 Flatwounds will save the frets from scratches.
A D'addario Pro Winder Cutter would've helped
Yes! This is the only guitar I tend to avoid winders on. I just don’t want to mat the headstock…
@@RobertCassard Yes but the Pro-Winder Cutter is built in a way to protect the Headstock.
Robert Cassard That is why they'll often put a label inside the sound hole saying "Made for Gut or Nylon Strings":images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/510dea8de4b072208fa15a30/1529117961056-BULIAV8MHKDU2G0B3I22/_M106621.2000.jpg?format=1500w & I'd imagine that if it still had that label, you & virtually all Musicians would better understand.
That label is a much more recent addition, Oscar. Back then, all they had were gut strings…
@@RobertCassard I guess that Label was added to let those musicians know what strings to actually use
Earl Klugh is known for playing Jazz on a Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, so this is that sound.
I know that sound well!
@@RobertCassard Earl Klugh is your hero, & Nylon Strings are great for Jazz due to their smooth mellow sound.
I love the shimmery steel string it's a glimmery, shiney sound. But I must say... the nylon strings' sweet sounds are irresistable!
I totally agree, Marleen. The guitar itself feels "happier" with nylon - less stress on the body and neck. I'm sure the sound is closer to what the builder intended.
i have a steel strings guitar and i was thinking in try nylon guitars. is it ok if i put nylon strings on a steel strings guitar? or this will break my guitar?
Yes, Gustavo. You can definitely try nylon strings on a guitar built for steel strings. Nylon strings put significantly LESS stress and tension on the neck than steel. That said, you may have a couple of challenges. Nylon strings will be a different gauge than the steel strings, so some slots in the guitar’s nut my require filing for the strings to move through them properly. Also, presuming your guitar uses bridge pins, make sure to buy a set of nylon strings with “ball ends.” Good luck!
I really liked the steel strings until I heard the nylon. Now the steel is harsh by comparison. Nylon by two steps.
I felt EXACTLY the same way LINO!
A very interesting and daring comparison. Of course I am biased as a classical guitarist, However, I do appreciate a well-played steel string sound. Django R. is my hero in that dept. Your instrument is quite the surprise. Even though it has been strung and braced to accept steel strings, its rich voice reemerges with the nylon. I play an instrument from 1981 by Dieter Hopf. It has nylon strings of course, but, it can give an almost "steel string" brightness if played that way. So, classical sound or Jazz / Blues sound is possible on the same instrument. I once played a Prelude by Bach on an Stratocaster! Very cool! Electric harpsichord sound. Thanks for this delightful video and your other fine videos.
Love your Beatles' videos! Bravo!
Wow...you're digging pretty deep if you found this one. It's been about 3 years and the nylon strings have found a permanent home on the old Martin. Since I did this video, I switched to Nylgut strings from and Italian company called Aquila. They sound and play beautifully. I'd love to hear your Dieter Hopf sometime. You don't have a video of you playing it, do you? And Back on a Strat? Why not?! Back sounds great on EVERYTHING. As one example, his cello suites transcribe so beautifully for lute and guitar.
Thank you Robert, very Cool! Actually, I have 2 Dieter Hopf guitars, both from 1981, signed and branded by Dieter and an original Manuel Contreras from 1971! Great for any Latin music (Villa Lobos). Just the right sound. Thank you for taking the time in getting back to me. @@RobertCassard
@@StephiSensei26 My pleasure. In which European country do you live?
You mean "did" live. Scandinavia. On public media, I'm not comfortable at giving too much personal info. Please excuse me. Right now I'm in La La Land!
I play Saverez Strings.Mixed sets. Thanks so much.@@RobertCassard
@@StephiSensei26 No worries, former Scandinavian! I literally lived in La La Land for a few years. Now I live there only mentally.
A Zero Glide nut would help the strings slide more smoothly
It would, but I don't want to make that kind of change on such a valuable vintage instrument. On a newer guitar? In a heartbeat!
@@RobertCassard Actually for vintage instruments it improves the sound
nylon gives more range with clarity of the higher notes i have a very similar guitar am prefering the nylon aha best classical guitar in a long time weee
Totally agree @zoemeow7677!
I think the gut strings, have a nicer tone , which will only get sweeter as it climatizes itself to the newer softness...
Agreed. It’s been about 3 years since I made the switch to nylon/synthetic gut and the 0-28 sounds sweeter than ever!
Did that guitar have friction pegs originally?
It did have friction pegs. I explained the change in a previous video about the guitar from a few years ago: th-cam.com/video/p_GC7T1lvRY/w-d-xo.html
Robert Cassard Classical Guitars are also great for beginners that wanna start playing because they'll protect their fingers from getting hurt. Now you could teach your future kids how to play Guitar.
You’re right that nylon is easier to play. As for my kids, they’re already grown. One plays guitar, keys and everything else. The other play the uke!
@@RobertCassard That's why Nylon String Guitars often pop up in Schools.
@@RockStarOscarStern634 True, and sometimes ironic, because many classical (nylon string) guitars can be more challenging for beginners because of the their large, wide necks and flat fingerboards. (Even though the strings are easier on the fingertips.)
@@RobertCassard I think a Radiused Fingerboard & tapered neck would be a huge improvement & help alot w/ playability.
@@RobertCassard Interestingly those Nylon String Guitars have a radiused neck (thinner) & the smaller body is what makes it easier to hold.
6:52 There's that Original Sound we were looking for, the next step is to use Thomastik KR116 Rope Core Flatwound Classical Strings.
Found ‘em at Sweetwater, Oscar. Pricey at $45 a set! Seems like they’d be very interesting. I may spring for a set.
@@RobertCassard They're not that expensive & they'll save those frets from scratches which is important.
The "gut" tone is so sweet!
I agree. And it’s so fun to play!
1889 was the roughly exact date it was built
Yes! I discovered more recently it is marked on the underside of the top. 1889
@@RobertCassard Yeah it was actually built in 1889 which was way before they had Steel Strings
@@RobertCassard 1889 & that was done via a teloscoping mirror w/ a flashlight attached to it. There's a reason why Teloscoping Mirrors are useful.
Classical guitarists have always known the answer.
No surprise, eh, RC?!
Thomastik makes Classic S Flatwound Classical Guitar Strings & the KF110 Flatwound Set sounds great on this thing because it'll save the frets from scratches
Cool suggestion, thx.
@@RobertCassard The KR116 Rope Core set also works great
Nice "Mood" Robert....your showing your age... lol....nice little Martin too.....
I AM showing my age...and proudly, Gibby!
they didn't have nylon strings back then you should have used sheepgut...that's what they used. and you should string it with nylons because that's what it was made for. you're going to ruin it with steel strings.
I’d still like to try real gut strings, but I didn’t have a good source for them. As I said in the video, though, the X-bracing makes the guitar plenty strong for steel strings. It was strung that way the whole time my grandfather and father owned the guitar, and I had it strung that way (silk and steel) for 35 years after I inherited it. The neck is still perfect! Fact is, it sounds better as a non-steel-string guitar, which should come as no surprise. thanks for watching and leaving a comment.
it's just that you mentioned you have other steel string guitars...I think it sounds wonderful with the nylon strings....I have a bunch of guitars myself, both steel and nylon strung...just my opinion that I think it sounds better ( which of course is subjective ) with the nylons....I don't think ilk and steel have as much tension as regular steel strings..@@RobertCassard
@@dietersdawgs I agree, Randall. And you're right that Silk and Steel are lower tension than standard 80/20 or Phosphor Bronze strings. That's why I used 'em on this sweet old guitar for 35 years.
Thanks for this comparison video about the different strings, and the history and bracing info. What is the actual nut width? You mentioned that it is "wider like a classical". Is it actually as wide as a classical nut, or is it somewhere between today's steel string nut width and today's classical width?
Thanks
Thanks, Charlie. Your guess is correct: somewhere between today's steel string nut width and today's classical width. I haven't measured it, but it's probably 1/8" narrower. And the V-shaped back fo the neck makes it even easier to reach around to play.
Thanks,@@RobertCassard When did guitar builders start using those tuners? I would have expected to see those like on a current classical guitar.
@@charliebuck8355 Good question. This guitar originally had friction pegs. For many years I couldn't find replacement pegs, so eventually, I brought it to a luthier to have the more modern tuners installed. I'm sure it diminished museum value, but it dramatically increased player value!
The nylon strings do work surprisingly well with the X-bracing, there is still a lot of resonance in this instrument.
The right tone for classical stuff!
Agreed, Tom. The top is super thin...and aged to perfection.
Why does that guitar have a old stamp in the back when that looks like a replaced headstock?
Hey P and C. The headstock is 100% original. The only changed to the original build is that I added machine head tuners to replace the original tuning pegs. The label you see inside was stuck there by a New York luthier (R.A. Mango), sometime in the 1930s when my grandfather had some top cracks repaired. I’ve thought of steaming it out, but it adds to the character and history. FYI, since making this video, I was able to inspect the guitar with a lighted mirror and found the date to be 9/89 as in September 1889. So it’s going on 132 years old!
@@RobertCassard The Machine head tuners are a huge improvement over the friction pegs & the headstock is actually the right shape for them so no worries.
4:57 These Vintage Martin Parlor Guitars have bridge pins, exactly like our Modern day Acoustic Guitars so Ball End Strings are needed.
Exactly!
@@RobertCassard This little Acoustic Guitar was built in 1889 & the date is underneath the soundboard.
@@RobertCassard Thomastik makes Ball End Classical Guitar String sets too & what signifies them is that they're actually Flatwound (like the KR116 Strings) so they're ideal for recording.
@@RockStarOscarStern634 I bought a set of the Thomastik strings…just waiting until the current set (Aquila) is a little duller. The Aquila strings are great-sounding!
@@RobertCassard Ted Woodford has restrung 2 Similar Guitars w/ those same types of Strings which you should check out, one is another X Braced Martin, & the other one is a Martin Knockoff made by Washburn w/ Ladder bracing.
Looks almost like a 2-28. It's so much smaller looking than my 1937 0-17. Did 0 size change? PS, I love Mood For A Day and was playing along with you. Thanks!
I don’t believe the 0-28 size has changed since it was introduced in the 1800s. I found an old size comparison chart and they’re the same today!
@@RobertCassard That's what I thought, but my 0 looks bigger. Of course it's all dark shiny mahogany, so maybe it's a visual illusion.
@@guitartec Does yours have a 14th-fret body joint or 12th-fret? The 0 size may have had longer scale options by the time your '37 was built.
14 frets@@RobertCassard
@@guitartec well, then your 0 is definitely bigger in that way!
Nylon Strings are often a (good) compromise because they have roughly the same tension as Gut (maybe more or less) & they last many times as long, plus they hold tune longer.
I’ve never played real gut, but I’ve heard it and love the mellowness
@@RobertCassard th-cam.com/video/kjVU-SRBMHA/w-d-xo.html These old Acoustic Guitars were originally built for Gut Strings, & we use Nylon as the Substitute that lasts longer & holds tune better.
Robert, your two videos are precious jewels of insight to me. I am the forth owner of a Martin 1-21 (March, 1894), along with the original coffin case. The second owner was a music teacher who bought it for his wife to learn on so he replaced the pegs with tuners - as you did. I wish I had a set of pegs just to keep in the case but haven't located a source. Also, I've
often thought of replacing the silk 'n steel strings with nylon just to hear how it may have originally sounded. Thank you for spec'ing the nylon strings you used - to my ear, yours now sounds much more like a Spanish classical (ala Williams, Bream and Segovia). Before I change to nylon, could you tell me please if it affected the volume of your 0-28? I can't really tell by your recording. I want to ratify what you said about the tone of these vintage Martin parlors. When my friend played mine he simply said, "I'm ruined", because he will never be satisfied by the tonality of any other guitar. If one were to amortize the cost of one of these over a lifetime of playing satisfaction, I think you would agree that this is the best tone to value that money can buy. I greatly value your insight - thank you. Grace and Peace, David McIlveen
Always happy when any video of mine is precious and valuable, David! Sounds like you have a great guitar on your hands, and I’m jealous of you having the coffin case. Funny that you asked about volume, because I actually have a db meter and measured the difference before and after the switch from steel to nylon. It was exactly a (minimal) 3 db decrease in volume, which is exactly what I expected. It’s still has remarkable projection, probably due to the age of the wood and thinness of the top. It’s a cannon!
@@RobertCassard Thank you for your immediate response. Only -3 db! Yes, these guitars are so light and resonant the top, back and sides all vibrate - even the neck. Robert, I hope you get many more views and a lot more Likes for your excellent content. Your deliver is infectiously enthusiastic - please keep up the good work.
@@davidmcilveen6085 Thank you SO much. I'll admit it's been slow going to build a subscriber base here on TH-cam. I have to fit everything I do here into the realities of my "day job" (marketing consulting practice). But I have no plans to stop!
It also has a nice soundality lol...
Soundality! 😎
I like your approach with videos. Some are too long, don’t get to the point quickly enough, but you have the pace and content just right. And your manner is just right too. I look forward to seeing more videos from you.
Thanks, David. Most of my videos are off-the-cuff, so I know I meander a bit! I appreciate you watching and subscribing.
I prefer the nylon strings
Most people seem to agree!
I acquired a c. 1890’s John C. Haynes Excelsior some years back and had the same dilemma. I eventually settled on Nylgut strings by Aquila which I highly recommend. See a demo here:
th-cam.com/video/ALeTeCAXnvQ/w-d-xo.html
Thank you, Dug. A few months after making this video, I re-strung the old Martin with Nylgut strings. Love ‘em!
Nylon is softer than steel.
Indeed it is, John. And softer on the hands, too.
Excellent decision to go with nylon on that guitar, Robert. Those strings make it sound so sweet, as it was intended to sound. Am I to presume that it originally had friction pegs for tuners?
Thanks, Vance. Yes. When I inherited the 0-28 back in the 80s, it was unplayable, with a few rusty strings, two severe top cracks and only 4 of 6 friction tuning pegs. Initially, I replaced them with cello pegs, but they were unwieldy at best. The guitar went through multiple rounds of repair and upgrade, some of which you can hear about in this video: th-cam.com/video/p_GC7T1lvRY/w-d-xo.html
@@RobertCassard Geared Tuners would be a huge upgrade
The nylon strings make that one of the most exquisite sounding guitars I a have heard. DO NOT PUT STEEL BACK ON IT. You are very lucky to have such a beautiful instrument.
Couldn't agree more, DC. I've always loved her, but now she can express her true nature, which truly is exquisite. Thanks for watching and listening with a critical ear.
BTW The Frets are Bar Frets & later on they've replaced them w/ T Shaped Frets when they've added a Truss Rod.
These frets and neck are decades older than any truss rod! 😊
@@RobertCassard Bar Frets were way before they used Truss Rods
Yeah nylon has it all.
On this guitar, it's the clear winner!
What size guitar is it??
It's an 0-28 parlor guitar
What an amazing guitar! Yep gotta say there's nothing like the original and it sounds great with nylon!
Glad you like it Skelet3n. Me, too!!!
Wow, What a great video Robert! Such a great sounding guitar, especially in your hands ! Well Done !
Thank you, Rob. Funny, because I learned that classical stuff back in high school. I could feel the rust flaking off of my brain cells! But, as Neil Young says, rust never sleeps... ;-)
I made myself an Acoustic Bass VI by restringing my ESC-105 w/ Magma GCT-E Octave Down Tuned Classical Guitar Strings. The Bass VI has since become popular when fender updated their string gauges to a set of 24-100s (basically balanced lights).
Wow! Cool idea. I love the Bass VI. I was reminded how much I loved it watching George Harrison play it in the Get Back film. On the song "Two of Us," for example.
Came to checkout the comparison, subscribed when you started playing YES.
We’ll, thank you, Shadowland. Glad to have you on board!
Lovely with the Nylon strings, if it were me I would leave them on.
Thanks, Sam. Yes! I agree, and the nylons are still on...probably a permanent change.
0:17 Update: It was made in 1889 & the date is underneath the soundboard of the Guitar.
Thanks, Oscar.
@@RobertCassard Very cute little Acoustic Guitar. I'm excited to hear how those KR116 Flatwounds sound on this Guitar. Flatwound Strings were popular among Jazz players but I think Acoustic Guitarsts should use them too as they eliminate the finger squeak all together. They also make Recording w/ the Guitar easier especially when you add a Piezo Pickup.
@@RockStarOscarStern634 yes, it’s both “acute” and very serious all at the same time! I’m excited to re-string with the Thomastik strings once the current strings are a little more tired. My logic says the flatwound lower strings should sound darker and more balanced with the high strings…we’ll see!
@@RobertCassard They're rather intersting cause unlike the D'addario or Aquila Strings, their Core is a Steel Rope so they have a really special sound. The Flatwound design will eliminate fingersqueak (Fender Guitars were originally designed for those strings BTW) & will save the frets from scratches. Interestingly enough Flatwound strings were invented around 1874 & were originally designed to replace the Gut Strings on bowed instruments cause 1) they last many times as long & 2) the flat surface makes playing the instrument easier. Most importantly they eliminate the finger squeak so they're ideal for recording.
@@RockStarOscarStern634 I played flatwounds for years when I was in a Jazz trio. The sound is distinctly darker than roundwounds, but they're always a pleasure to play!
Thanks!
Thanks for watching, Austin.
It becomes obvious that it was meant to have nylon strings from the first note, and it sounds so much better with them.
The 1st and 2nd strings in the steel setup are almost unbearable. Loud and totally unbalanced against the other strings. Whereas the balance is beautiful wit nylon. If it were mine, it would never see steel strings again.
Thanks for doing this. It was really interesting.
Thanks for listening with a critical ear, Trevor. Based on this recording, I totally agree. Part of the reason for the harsh high B and E strings is that the steel strings were quite new at the time. For 35 years I always found that the guitar became sonically balanced after 2-3 hours of playing, after the high strings dulled a bit. That being said, the nylon is balanced from the moment you string the guitar. I LOVE this guitar as a nylon and no plans to go back...
@@RobertCassard I envy you. It would be remarkable to play
Do you know how the neck is reinforced? I don't think they had truss rods back then, and the classical makers often used a 1/4" ebony piece in the neck for that.
I'm so surprised that such a small sound board could produce such a good nylon sound when itt is cross braced.
Have you seen the bracing inside at all?
@@trevorsneath4665 I have no idea how the neck is reinforced, but am happy to report that it's straight as an arrow after 135 years (or more)! The sound board is remarkably thin, hence the impressive projection of tone. I'd imagine X-bracing was essential to prevent the thin soundboard wood from bowing, even with gut strings. There is a sticker inside the guitar indicating it was repaired by a luthier named RA Mango in New York. My father told me that his father bought the guitar in the 1930s...probably from Mango. When I inherited it, the sound board had two small cracks, each about 2" long, running vertically from the edges of the bridge downward. I'm guessing these had developed from years of higher tension steel strings on a guitar that was built for the lower tension of gut. The cracks were easily repaired by Kirk Sand in Laguna Beach, CA. www.sandguitars.com/home.htm I've only seen the bracing with a mirror, never had the top off the guitar. It is a sonic wonder and truly a joy to play, especially with nylon strings.
Actually it was originally designed for Gut Strings & today we use Nylon as the modern Substitute
I enjoy your playing! And I get why people like the nylon, but i like the 'harpsichord' sound of the steel
This old Martin is fantastic with any strings! I played it with steel for 35 years…but it seems like the nylon will be semi-permanent moving forward.
@@RobertCassardThomastik Infeld KR116 Flatwound Strings would sound amazing on this Guitar plus they'll save the frets from scratches.
Love the nylon sound. I think it's better for that guitar. If you're not a classical guitarist, then you're pretty damn close.
Thanks, Lindsay. Glad you like the nylon sound. I’ve been leaving it that way...and it’s even more fun to play!
Anyone who can play Asturias (Leyenda) is a classical guitarist in my book. @@RobertCassard
I was pretty serious about classical guitar for a couple years back in the late 70s...and at that time I actually could play Asturias (Leyenda) all the way through with fairly solid musicality. I wish I’d recorded it, so I could evaluate how good or bad I actually was! I need to look for the sheet music, because today I need the equivalent of WD-40 on every finger (and a few brain cells) to eliminate 40 years of rust and even attempt it. But thanks for the compliment anyway!
What are you recording audio with sir? Love the capture.
And thanks for this review. I have a 1-18 that needs neck reset and refretting. I think i'll go the nylon way :)
Hey Arnel. I use a Zoom H1n for stereo capture…just using the built-in stereo mic pair. I did a video about it awhile back, and you can buy one here if you’re interested: amzn.to/3qzRewu
What a fun and introspective review! I enjoyed your play. More importantly, I really enjoyed your love of your guitar. Playing is such a personal experience. Your love of that instrument is quite apparent and refreshing to see. Quite enjoyable. The only thing that could made it better would have been me sitting on the couch with you basking in that wonderful tone! 👍 😊
Thanks for the positive feedback, Martin. The older I get, the more I appreciate every instrument for its unique qualities. It's fun for me to express my joy and enthusiasm for a high-value historic guitar like this Martin, and then do the same for any one of my "cheap guitars," which I define as anything I bought for under $300 USD. I recently did a 4-part video series called "For the Love of Cheap Guitars" starting with this (cheap) Stella parlor guitar: th-cam.com/video/uTfzXHyMwLM/w-d-xo.html
Thank you very much, Mr. Cassard... I´m spanish and, curiosly, i´ve ever heard nothing about Maria Dolores Esturias... The old photographies you show in the video of a woman holding a guitar... ¿Are Madame Esturias portraits?
Ola, Jesus! These portraits are of Mme. Da Goni, not Mme Esturias. I will have to learn about Maria Esturias!
My 1952 0-18 also sounds great. It’s gone on and off the production list through the years, the latest re-entry in 2017. I’ve often wondered when the last 0-28 was made, and whether Martin has any plans to bring it back to accompany the 00-28, 000-28, etc.
Apparently, they had an 0-28 in production in 2015. parlor.guitars/list/martin-0-28vs. Not sure about since then…
Funny. I’ve gone in just the opposite direction. A number of years ago, I discovered the guitar I never knew I always wanted - a Martin D35S. It provided me the familiar landscape of a classical neck while allowing metal strings. I’ve never looked back. It completely changed my repertoire.
Ah! You and I are probably in a similar lane then. The D-35S is a beautiful model - I love slope-shoulder acoustics. My long-term "partner" is a Gibson J-50 from 1964 (I bought in '78). I've done multiple videos about it and play it on quote a few others, but this is one of my favorites: th-cam.com/video/YFThZipY-BY/w-d-xo.html
Just last year, I finally acquired my personal "holy grail" Martin Dreadnought. Here's the video about my quest and some Martin Guitar history: th-cam.com/video/YXiaM-pGbyE/w-d-xo.html
Thanks! I’ll check them out.
@@nopeguessnot Cheers, fellow Frenchman.
What style of guitar are you playing these days? Which artists are your inspirations?
This was a completely unexpected transition for me. Switching to metal effectively forced me to abandon a decades old body of work while inspiring me to write. I’ve been playing nothing but original material since I bought it. That was around 20 years ago. I don’t know if I could site any particular artist as an inspiration. I’m all over the map in terms of musical genres.
Nylon wins!! Sublime tone. I want one!
Thanks, T. Since making this video, I switched to Aquila Nylgut strings and they sound even sweeter. These ancient Martins are very special and can be relatively “affordable” considering how historic they are.
@@RobertCassard I was surprised there is no slotted headstock
@@tbeau6663 That's because it originally had friction pegs, like a violin. And FYI - I've since discovered the guitar was built in 1889. Used a lighted mirror and found the pencil markings on the underside of the top.
Geared Tuners are certainly a huge upgrade for this Guitar as it helps the Guitar stay in tune longer
Yes! They may have reduced the historical value but they sure increased the player value.
@@RobertCassard Because the headstock is the same type you'd see on modern Martin Guitars those Geared Tuners don't look out of place.
@@RockStarOscarStern634 yep. One reason I put ‘em in without hesitation
@@RobertCassard Yes alot of these older Martins that used to have friction pegs will often have them replaced w/ mechanical ones, & it's really a huge upgrade.
@@RobertCassard Maybe they increased the value of this Guitar after all.
Robert, great guitar and playing!
Does your guitar have slotted bridge pins? If so do you have to make the slots on the high strings wider?
Hi, Leftalone. Yes, the pins are slotted but I didn't have to modify them at all. Nylon strings with a ball end function just like steel strings with a ball end.
Great video. Do you think I'd be able to do the same on a modern parlor body guitar, with an adjusted nut? I always preferred the more expressive and rich sounds of nylon bass and treble, but I've been spoiled by the smaller necks of a typical acoustic.
I do, 30YO. And I expect any required nut or bridge adjustments will be surprisingly small.
Nice! (And you pronounce “D’Addario” correctly!)
LOL. Thanks Stan!
That is a sweet sounding guitar. My first Martin was a 1974 00-21. Love it still. For a travel guitar I use a Martin 5-16. Keep loving your ‘28. It looks well cared for. Cheers.
Thanks, Stringman. I DO love this old heirloom. As for the care...it’s been to 3 different luthiers in the past few years and none of them can believe it’s at least 134 years old. It’s aged VERY well, even without a truss rod.
How do you store it? In case, with humidifier? Looks really good. What you taught me was how beautiful nylons sound on it. I got my 00-21the year I saw Dylan playing it in his Rolling Thunder Revue in 1974 in Baton Rouge. Old memories, great times. Saw him playing Tangled Up In Blue on this guitar. You do a pretty good Dylan impression too. Cheers.
Martin storage: Always in a plush hard shell case that fits like a glove. I live on an island in the SF Bay, so I generally don’t need a humidifier, except during the winter when the furnace comes on more often. I keep my whole environment humidified. That Rolling Thunder experience is a great story...that Dylan impression was spontaneous. Glad it wasn’t an embarrassment!
I live north of New Orleans where humidity is always an issue. It’s a killer for old guitars. Nice classical pieces in your video. Was that some Tarego? Cheers.
@@Stringman1950 Asturias (Leyenda) by Albeniz...
Thanks, this was very helpful!
A classical guitar--with a neck that is comfortable for steel-string players. Why aren't more builders making these?
Great question, David. It’s one of the easiest playing guitars I’ve encountered!
@@RobertCassard There are actually two elements that I like here: 1) classical guitar sound with a more familiar neck width (and radius!), 2) nylon strings are easy on the fingertips after not playing for a couple years.
@@davidshelow8869 True on both counts. I never got comfortable with the flat and wide neck of a standard classical guitar. In fact, the only guitar I've sold in the last 15 years was my classical. So I was thrilled to discover I could have all the benefits with none of the drawbacks by converting my old Martin.
@@davidshelow8869 Taylor makes these types of Guitars
Nice video. Aquila Strings sells guts strings imitation for the guitars from that epoch. It could be interesting to get closer to that historic sound.
Hi Almo...Yes! I’ve already started using Nylgut, as Aquila calls them. They sound even more smooth and gorgeous.
@@RobertCassard Black Nylon also sounds akin to Gut strings but they indeed last longer. The KR116 strings (which will be in a new video) will save the frets from scratches.
@@RobertCassard Yep Aquila put alot of thought into making such a string
I like your martin nylon string guitar sir...but martin guitar are very expensive in my country..then i bought alternative guitar which is tanglewood em d4 parlour guitar and replace savarez strings with fender nylon ball end strings..sounds warmer and inspiring
Thank you, Dawar Nita. Warmth and inspiration are good! I hope the Tanglewood inspires you to play often.
@@RobertCassard yes sir ..thanks for you too 😃🤟
4 years of video and i want to say thank you. There is not too much video about getting nylon strings to an acoustic guitar. Your video presents the best comparison about this issue. I am very keen on to buy a 3/4 or parlor acoustic guitar rather than a classic guitar. Why, because classic guitar keyboard is not suitable for me, high string play, wide and flat keyboard is not for me. I need this guitar for my 8yr daughter and me, it should suit for both of us and playing on the sofa. Now i am sure what i should buy..... an acoustic guitar with nylon strings... Thanks again.
It's possible to switch out the strings on almost any steel-string parlor guitar. One guitar that might be a good choice is a Gretsch "Jim Dandy": amzn.to/3PV7RiI.
A couple things to be aware of in making the switch:
1) your guitar is likely to use bridge pins or have a trapeze tailpiece. Either way, you'll want to buy nylon strings that have a so-called "ball end." I like D'Addario Folk Nylon strings: amzn.to/3t2uPLC (Otherwise, you'll need to manually tie knots, which gives unpredictable results.)
2) the nylon strings are likely to be significantly thicker than steel strings. Because of that, they may not rest on the guitar's bridge or pass through the nut properly. This can cause playability and intonation problems. If anything just sounds or feels wrong after switching from steel to nylon, it's worth taking the guitar to a luthier for a proper setup. Or you might just want to bring the guitar and the nylon strings to the luthier and have that person make the switch and get everything "jim dandy"!
@@RobertCassard You are absoultely right. Some people also advice using as thin as possible nylon strings for passing through the nut properly. One more, due to classical guitar string heigth is more than acoustig guitar. For solving this some people advice re-adjusting of truss rod for preventing fret-buzz. When i watch your video, i haven't significantly noticed any fret buzz.
@@erestortatum Truss rods were invented in 1921 and not used commonly until years later. No truss rod on old guitars like this one, but I'm fortunate the neck is still straight and strong!
You play like a Spanish woman...... Very well
I’m flattered, Angel Eli. thanks!
Nylon sounds great. Thinking of purchasing a nylon string guitar. Not keen on permanently hard skin finger tips.
Go for it, John! But be aware that you'll probably still have "hard skin" callouses if you play often. The bottom 3 strings are metal-wound so there's still friction...
@@RobertCassard ok Thanks Robert 👍
Wow! Thanks so much for taking the time to create this video. What a great before and after. Your guitar strung with steel strings sounds very nice...but...the ringing seems to overpower the woodiness and resonance of the instrument. The tone with the nylon strings is sublime, might even say seductive. I've often wondered what my OM-18 LJ would sound like with the same D'Addario folk strings. That guitar is also very lightly built and has great resonance even with very light steel strings. Strung with Martin Retro extra light strings the guitar still gives a Dreadnaught cousin a run for its money. I'll need to give it a try. My other nylon string guitars may get lonely 😉
What year is your OM-18, Joseph?
@@RobertCassard 2008
@@josephbeyer4579 a mere 119 years younger than mine!
Nylon 100% the best for this beautiful guitar.
I agree Nourdine...
This guitar is your retirement plan man.
Hey Bsharp. Probably not as valuable as you might imagine - it was appraised at $5000. How much did you think it might be worth?
@@RobertCassard Gee...much more....in the high tens
I am trying to build a fan braced nylon string replica of a 1932 right now
I wish!!
Sounds very interesting. Would love to see a video when it’s finished!
VERY interesting VIDEO! I've seen it a lot of times now. Thanks.
Thank you, Peter. Happy you enjoyed it, and I hope you find other interesting videos on my channel!
@@RobertCassard Oh, such a fast reaction. Then i will try to explain why this is soo important to me. I play Nylon for over 30 years now, and I ever felt like I am only a half 'Bluesman', because I play Nylon. But I love it. The Sound I looked for is smooth, but the Music I Play comes completely from Steelstrings. Whatever. Your guitar shows that the difference is not very big AND a lt of sound comes from the player, and the wood. So, thats it. Thanks.
@@peters.2058 Hey Peter. In my opinion, it's better to have YOUR OWN sound in your chosen genre (Blues) than to imitate the sound of others. I commend you on staying with nylon if it's the sound you love and want to hear. And Blues is Blues, no matter what you play it on!
Parlor guitars sound the best
I’m a big fan of small guitars, especially for recording and just hanging around the house and playing. But I still love my large guitars, too!
Can you tell me where to get the guitar strap you are using on your 1860's martin? I like the gentle mounting method at the neck and have a 1920s Harmony that could use a similar strap.
It’s a Martin Brown Sueded Strap: amzn.to/37YC9LB. And a Martin Leather Head Stock Strap Tie: amzn.to/3eaBat5
@@RobertCassard loosened
Many thanks for your fast reply on the strap. Looks like it will be gentle when hooked to something old and delicate. Bought my 1920’s-1930s Harmony Parlor guitar based on its looks for $30. The top was warped pretty bad so I lossened the steel strings and hung it on my wall for a few years. After watching your vid I pulled it down to stare at it and the top is now flat. From a bit of reading these low-end guitars were not designed for steel strings so just ordered the nylon strings you suggested. Once I get a new bone saddle installed I think it will be playable. Hoping some day I will find myself playing something close to what I heard on your vid.
If you’re installing a bone saddle, have your luthier do a full set up and inspect the bracing, too. The warping may also be caused in part by humidity variations. I just did a video all about that: th-cam.com/video/CKrV7eJbhnM/w-d-xo.html
Great video! The guitar seems to come alive with the nylon strings!!
Thanks, Steve. Since this video, I’ve re-strung with Aquila Nylgut and it sounds and plays even better!
Robert Cassard have you made a video of that?
Steve Greenberg Sorry, not yet. Just enjoying it myself!
Thanks for the interesting comparison and guitar history lesson! Your version of Asturias sounds wonderful.
Nylon may sound different from steel strings for more reasons than just the different material. Lighter tension strings may be easier to play with feeling. And the top can vibrate more freely.
This inspires me to try nylon strings on my old European parlour (ladder braced). I own a few great sounding nylon string guitars, but for some reason they're all made with that annoying wide neck 😀
I must say, this old Martin has a mercifully narrower neck than modern classical guitars…and that really makes it easier to play.
@@RobertCassard What is the width of the neck? At least 48mm I guess...? The steel strings Art & Lutherie Roadhouse parlor has a only 43,7 mm neck, impossible to put nylon strings on it... They have about the same model with nylon strings, but unfortunately more difficult to find, which has a 50mm neck.
@@luc5798 Hey. It's 48mm at the nut. Feels just right!
@@RobertCassard It's almost like an Electric Guitar neck
Sounds much better!
Thanks, Claudia. I agree, and I still have it strung with nylon today!
This guitar would pay someone's mortgage...
LOL. Truth is, though, that pre-1900 Martins don’t have the value of later Martins, esp. pre-War dreadnoughts. Current market is about $5k...ironically, that same as what a brand new 0-28 costs from Martin’s custom shop!
@@RobertCassard
Strange, how come this guitar fetched this much?
th-cam.com/video/nu3A0BIkvu8/w-d-xo.html
.
🙋🏼♂️ No idea...but that guitar does have some of the fancier appointments. Must’ve been a particularly rare model. I mean $400k? Crazy!
what a beautiful tone!!!
Yes! I love it, too.
Just....Wow!
LOL. Thanks so much, Monte!
great comparison with a wonderful guitar - thank you Robert
In general I like the sound of bass nylon but steel trebles -
so what is a solo guitarist to do ?
On my nylon string guitar I have been experimenting with titanium trebles and other similar types to try for a more 'steel' sound on trebles -
What do you recommend ?
I love your sense of experimentation. Since I've experimented LESS than you have, I can't even guess at what might work best for you. But come back and share if you chance upon a magic combination!
@@RobertCassard GHS MA2390 Murial Anderson strings are my favorite so far
@@lw216316 Thanks for the tip and for reminding me about Muriel Anderson - a very talented fellow midwesterner!
@@RobertCassard Years ago I saw her play at a Chet Atkins appreciation concert nearby.
@@lw216316 was she playing her harp guitar? or standard 6-string?
Love this!! Much prefer the nylon sound on that particular guitar.
Thank you, David. I completely agree...and am enjoying the nylon even more now that I've put on "Nylgut" strings from an Italian company called Aquila.
Robert Cassard I might try Nylgut strings
@@DTGuitarTech They're great, but just beware that I couldn't find any with ball ends. I actually stole the ball ends from my D'Addario Folk nylon set and knotted the Nylguts into them...
I can only find ukulele Nylgut strings. Would you have a link to some that would be suitable for a Parlour guitar?
Robert Cassard now that it skill! I am impressed. Thanks for your help.
Immensely better.
Every time I pick it up now, I feel transported back to the 1800s...such beautiful tone!
@@RobertCassard
i.pinimg.com/originals/a8/9f/26/a89f26aece3b6b6b2c870320d5b9c18f.gif
.
Real good tone.
Thanks, Silene! Do you like the nylon tone best?
@@RobertCassard Hey Robert. I do like the nylon tone a lot. But to be honest, steelstrings on that guitar is a killer. By the way - is the bracing that symmetrical bracing shown on the theme picture?
@@romanusantonius1655 The picture shows dreadnought bracing, which is more elaborate due to size. But yes, the X-bracing is symmetrical.
@@RobertCassard well, after listening again, this time with headphones and not over my rather good speakers, i gravitate towards nylon. Very nice anyways.
@@romanusantonius1655 Thanks, Silene. Nylon is where I ended up...both for tonal reasons and to keep the stress on the top and neck where it was originally designed to be. The old Martin is HAPPY (and so am I)!
It sounded really bad. I don’t know if it was the guitar or the player that was the problem
Hey Emmanuel. Sounded bad with steel? Or both steel and nylon? Either way, my bad!