I have the SC strings on both my Santa Cruz OM, Santa Cruz dreadnaught, and Martin OM28vs. The average time they've been installled at this point is about six months. I keep thinking maybe I should change to new ones, but they still sound so good I keep on playing them. For my ears and fingers, I am sold...using them exclusively now. Also, now and then they'll have a 3-for-2 offer, so that cuts down the price. Besides, if one changes strings every month or six weeks, as I used to, the cost of those less-expensive strings comes out a bit more than these. Plus, I have found that these SC strings sound really good for a longer percentage of their lives. I don't "hear' a gradual degradation in the sound as much as all the other strings I've used over many years. Thumbs up.
I bought a set of Santa Cruz for my Martin almost six months ago. They still sound amazing! They really bring out the full potential of playability and tone!
Average Reviews From An Average Guy A 1997 Martin DCME with the medium tension parabolics. She never sounded so fine! By the way, thanks for your excellent review!
I've tried both low tension and mid tension on my D-18 VS, and both worked wonderfully. The mid-tension was not harder to play at all, to the point the difference is quite negligible, in case you're worried the mid-tension would be hard on your fingers!
They're roughly the same gauge (roughly 10s) but the wound strings the ratio of core wire to wrap wire changes the tension. Now generally thicker strings have more tension than thinner strings, & yes the heavier tension strings are great for lower tunings like Eb Standard & D Standard.
I'm interested that so many people gave these stering such positive reviews. I've used them on my small body McQuarrie and I cannot see what the fuss is about. They're a fraction louder in most contexts (not strumming). they are good strings, but here in the UK they come in at least £24. That's a lot more than Elixir, and a lot, lot more than uncoated quality strings. As for the warm tone, well yes, they do have that, but to my ear, far too much of it. Other review sites have much more of a mix of comments. I can only echo the average reviewer's comments. Give them a try. I didn't like them on my Martin or my Mcquarrie and I probably won't try them again. However, even at £24, a set of strings is one of the cheapest ways of exporing changes to your guitar's tone. Cheaper yet is changing your pick or (if you are mainly a fingerpicker, like me) your nail care.
Kings new clothes matey !! Seen many people gushing about these, but to my ears they lack bass, and sound a bit flat and boring. I guess some people think louder is better. I'll stick to Elixir polyweb custom lights thanks, great sounding on my Lowden, hardly any string squeak (which is something I hate), and last a long time.
MIND. BLOWN. I have never heard such an enormous difference in guitar strings. The Santa Cruz string DESTROY the Elixirs, beat them up, take their lunch money and laugh in their face 😳
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I'm loving the Santa Cruz strings on my Martin D-42. This video depicts a really good tonal comparison between the Elixirs and Santa Cruz strings. The Elixirs sound good. The Santa Cruz sound amazing!
Thank you for this review. Santa Cruz Guitar Company has a special deal on these this week, "Buy three for the price of two" by adding three to your cart and the discount code will reduce the total price by one set. I plan to give a set to a friend who plays a Taylor 814ce, and will try them on a Cole Clark Angel. TH-cam's compression algorithm didn't smother the differences!
I have been using the Parabolic Low Tension strings for well over a year on different guitars and they are exactly as you have said, long-lasting and sounding great. The playability is better than anything out there. Price shouldn't even be mentioned as a concern when the strings last longer than anything else. I've even put these strings on guitars that barely sounded good and these strings are like magic.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I have two guitars. A Collings OM1 and a Rainsong hybrid carbon parlor model. I also have a custom Collings tenor ukelele.
Just installed my second set on my Brook Taw and I have to say I am liking them a lot. I am a big fan of Newtone round core but I have to admit these seem to have the edge. If they feel right hey will play right, that is my motto. Not tried the Mid's yet but I am thinking Long Scale 650mm
I have Mids on my dreadnaught and I love them! I haven't tried Newtones yet, but I have a Tonk Bros Parlour on order that comes with them fitted as standard so I'll see soon enough :)
After I saw your review I put a set of the low tension strings on my Santa Cruz Style 1. It sounds like someone turned up the volume and installed a Reverb tank, An amazing improvement in tone, clarity and volume on an already wonderful sounding guitar. Thanks!
No doubt they're a good string from all I've heard I'm about to try a set of mid-tensions. But I have to ask, did you replace a set of strings that had lost some of their original tone. Because any new set of strings, replacing an older one increases volume, clarity and sustain. I thought Santa Cruz was more about tone. I've dying believe there's more than just a tad of volume difference between strings of the same gauge, perhaps barring radically different materials of some niche string types. There will be some variation with materials used. Multi-coated for example sound partially worn to me and type of metal might affect volume a little, but mostly tone.
The strings I replaced were not brand new, but they were also not worn. They had been played in for a couple of weeks. Let me know how you get on with the new strings....and which guitar you’re using them on 😉🎵
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I was meaning with Dave since he reported echo (sounds like he meant sustain) and more volume. I did notice more volume in most of your tests with the Santa Cruz, but that could have been style of play and position near the mic after changing strings. I changed volume to level match. I liked to tonal balance better with the Santa Cruz strings better. I'm still holding off changing my elixers on my A series Yamaha, because I'm enjoying the way it sounds quite well, but I will report back when I do.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy hey man. Just put on the Santa Cruz mid-tension strings as realized my guitar strings were dying. Obviously the guitar sounded way way better with new strings, but I also have to say, these sound better than new Elixers. The strings are closer in volume and also don't seem to have much in the way of a coated string veil. It balanced the sound of my guitar and they have a little more umph to the tone. I Have them on a Yamaha cutaway A series. Spruce top, mahogany back and sides. I think I'm going to order another set to have on hand. We'll see how long they last without going dull. Thanks for the review. I've been curious about these for a while. Pretty jazzed on them.
WOW! I can not believe the huge difference. It is almost as if you changed the recording settings and made it much louder and more resonant with the string change to the santa cruz strings. I just ordered a pack
Have to say I don’t care what strings cost, so long as they represent the best sound my Martin OO-18 can produce. I’ve used DAddario SX and Elixir and Santa Cruz parabolic just gave a natural sound with good sonic quality. I feel there excellent and worth the money. Never could under stand why a person buys a beautiful high end guitar for 2k or more, but won’t put on high end strings to receive the best sound. Great video and great strings!
Just instaleld my second set on my Brook Taw and I have to say I am liking them a lot. I am a big fan of Newtone roundcore but I have to admit these seem to have the edge. If they feell rightt hey will play right, that is my motto. Not tried the Mid's yet but I am thinking Long Scale 650mm
They sound great in the demos Ive heard. I have a Lowden S32, smaller OM-sized body. Going to pick up a packnof the lows today. Ive been ising Martin Luxe for the past month. Those sound good but are really stiff, and I used the 11s!
I agree completely. They're just that good! I use a lot of the D'Addario NB on many of my bigger guitars however on the 00 and 000 size guitars, these really do a great job and so I will stay with them on those. I do need to try them on one of my Dreads though. Thx for the great and clearly ear opening (EQ DIFFERENCE) review!
Put these in my OM John Mayer , sounds completely like a different guitar , and the OMJM sounds already great without these strings . highly recommended .
Wait - Mid tension on a FireFly - I thought they recommend Low tension for small guitars? I have Low on my SC 1929-00 and it sounds and feels incredible - I'm now going to put Mid's on my OM thinking they will drive that size better. Do you agree.....recommendations?? Thanks.
I used lows on my Crafter Twin Birds OM and they were sublime! You are able to use mids on any size guitar, but it’s recommended that you have a setup done to adjust to the tension. Personally I would use lows on an OM. Hope that helps?
I put these strings on my Martin D28. Low tension. I have to really think hard to notice much different about them. I’ll keep them on for a month then see what I think. After a few days with them I think I prefer Martin Authentic medium gauge with a more lively low end.
Great review man, decent strings. Easier on the fingers than regular medium gauge strings. Only been on my d28 for 3 days so can't comment on longevity. But highly recommended 👌
Thanks! I have had them on my Martin dreadnaught now for about 7 months and they are just starting to dull a bit...and this thing gets played a lot! I’m really impressed with these strings and I hope they serve you well 😊
Not yet....but funnily enough I am about to try them out on my parlour. I shall post a review in the next week or so as soon as my new album launch is done 👍
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I just put on the retro mediums and they play and sound great, they will probably replace my santa cruz, i look forward to another great review from you!👍👍👍
Great review - wanted to shout out your playing: lovely lovely lovely! Will be sitting down with my axe and a set of these strings to nick some of your playing here. 🎉😊
I has been using medium gage DR Dragon skins. (Great string for me) I tried the low tension SCGC strings. They are easier to play, but not as loud. I'm still undecided.
I’ve never used the DR Dragon....at the end of the day you need to pick the string that feels right for you, whichever that may be. I use a variety of different strings across my guitars. Let me know which you choose in the end 😉🎵
Interesting that you said Mid for Jumbo etc and Low for OM. Would the scale length dictate the choice, i.e. Mid for Long scale and Low for short scale? I don't think you can judge on sound alone feel and playability are just as important. I think the SC score higher in that category.
According to the Santa Cruz website the low tension are for the smaller guitars and mid for larger. They even say you can use either on any guitar but you may need to make set up adjustments for them to work properly. I completely agree....I've found strings in the past that sound great but just don't quite feel right.
Thanks for your review. I'll give them a try, but I have to say that Elixers, even Nanoweb, don't sound great compared to uncoated strings. People buy them because they are longer-lived. At least, that has always been my impression. Though I last tried them years ago, it was my experience as well. I went back to uncoated strings after one or two tries because the Nanowebs sounded dull in comparison. I think a comparison with a standard-gauge set of phosphor bronze strings (or, if possible, whatever alloy Santa Cruz uses) would have been more fair. I do intend to buy a couple of sets of the SC medium tension strings to try on my D28 and my acoustic L7. I have been using John Pearse phosphor bronze mediums on the D28 and Pearse nickel-wound mediums on the L7. I'm about to try the Pearse new mediums on both. When I decide what I like best so far on each, I'll get the SC sets and compare.
I bought some Santa Cruz in Jan. 2021 and still have them on my faith guitar today Dec. 2021 and play everyday with and without a plectrum and the strings still look and feel good. They still sound OK but not as good as I thought they might, but that could be me. I don't like Elixir strings because they seem to sound dumpf after a few weeks. D'Addario strings are very good which I like a lot and came with the guitar. I will buy some more Santa Cruz and maybe try the low tension because the mid tension seems to be a little on the hard side, probably because I'm getting old. I can't decide what is the best for me, its either Daddarios or Santa Cruz
@@HighLow66 me too..... but I recently canceled an order bc its taking months to get a simple, non custom capo. They have also disconnected their phone ... which is never a good sign.
They sounded louder in the video than the Elixirs, don't know if something was done in the recording to alter the sound but they were definitely noticeably louder. Or maybe you were playing softer with the Elixirs?
I kept the settings the same for the recording....the Santa Cruz strings do come through a tad louder I think. There are slight differences in the way each set of strings made me play. For example, the Santa Cruz made me want to dig in more for the fingerpicking than the elixirs, but if you watch the strumming you can see that I attack the elixirs a bit more than the SC.
Mindblowing is - in Your video - especially the difference in loudness - when picking distinctly more than strumming. When I put them on my Iain Russel Concert it was a revelation! Not only volume, but more overtones, projection, sustain and better string separation. Did You already try them with DADGAD? I 'm not sure wether to take low or mid tension strings for this purpose.
Yeah, I love them! I’ve used DADGAD on my dreadnaught with mid tension and it was great...no issues at all and the same sweet sound. Thanks for the comment 😊🎵
Excellent review. I've used these strings on my Santa Cruz Tony Rice D. They sound great. However, when recording, I seem to have more difficulty getting a clean separation of tones than when I record with Elixir strings. Maybe it's just that I need to experiment more with my pre-amp settings and I am not used to what these parabolic strings can do.
@@Morten_Nielsen1979 come on really, which Martin guitar? Collings actually remind me a lot of some Martin guitars. Every guitar is different. Especially when you compare price points and individual stand out guitars, they're very similar. Don't be all biased and snobby.
@@Morten_Nielsen1979 wow! Whatever, hold on to your conclusions about brand instead of individual guitars! LMAO! Enjoy your sweet guitar. I'm sure it really is lovely.
I use EXP strings on my 50 year old Ibanez handmade custom 6string dreadnaught. It has a strong bass warmth which has increased over the years. Do you know how the Santa Cruz strings impact the lows on a vintage guitar?
Truth be told I don’t. I have only used them on more modern guitars...It could be worth trying to get in touch with Santa Cruz themselves and see if they reply?
I play 11s on my 00 sized aria parlour. It’s listed as a parlour but got 25.5 scale and 14 fret joint. Would the low tension be similar to the 11s in feel? I only just got it secondhand and opted for Martin 11s as never really liked daddarios nano and the martins sound amazing but the bending is stiff. Electric player normally so anything up from 10 is hard work lol. Thanks for the good video
Wow! They sound great. The Elixir's sounded a bit brittle in comparison! And...they are SOLD OUT! Nothing on Amazon or Ebay, nothing coming up on Google or Bing. None on my local guitar shop websites either. Do they only sell them from their own website?
Hi there, great review. Subscribed ☺️ going to order a set. If I may ask, what are the names of the songs/melody’s you play at the beginning of review? Have a nice day 👍🏻
Great review. However, I’d like to hear the SC strings on a dreadnought. Could you use the low tension on a D-28 if you mainly play finger style, or would the high tension more suited? Thank you.
Thank you...I should have pulled the dreadnaught out for the review too..I thought about that after finishing it. The mid tension is designed for dreads, however I have never tested the lows on a larger bodied guitar... The tension of the mids on my dread feel pretty sweet and very easy to play though.
i just put the low tension on my D-28 without knowing about the low and medium's ( just found out about it lol, i got these strings to try them for they just got them in the shop ) but i was surprised and my son also! but for sure i get the medium's now for the next change! for now i am more than happy playing these for a while!
I think the elixir sounded a little more robust richer sounding the Santa Cruz's seem like they were a little Tenney bright sounding but I'm using a cellphone speaker I may give them a try Thanks for sharing
For some of the tunes, I thought the same thing on the first round of listening...which I did on a Surface laptop with its crappy speakers. Then I plugged in with headphones for a second listen - major difference. To my ear, the difference is similar to the removal of low register noise. With the headphones, it was as though a sound engineer had cleared out white noise interference on the Santa Cruz string tunes. The Elixirs sounded muddy in comparison. I love Elixirs, but the tonal separation and clarity achieved with the Santa Cruz strings sets them apart.
Without the recording. Which would you say are louder. I can hear the Santa Cruz is better balanced after seeing this. But is that only plugged in. I feel on smaller guitars more tension would be louder. But Santa Cruz is definitely more balanced. But volume matters just as much to me. Are Santa Cruz just as loud as elixers?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Well, my initial impression, as with most new bronze acoustic strings, is their fresh metallic crispiness and gong-like resonance. They are taking a while to settle in, to stay in tune. 🤔 My last tuning, after letting them rest a bit, I decided to drop the whole thing down a whole step, to see, hear and feel the effect on the tuning, and more ease of the bending. Need more time to play, but they are riding well, so far. 😷👍
Am I the only one who thinks elixir sounded better? Santa Cruz sound metallic to me and very hifi. That's not a Martin sound I have in my head. Great demo though, thank you!
That's not a test. This is a test. Take off that silly capo and play a full barre chord F at the first fret. Now that's a test. If it is lower tension then you will notice the tension difference right away. So why didn't you play some barre chords ?
I tried them on my Mossman. Arguably better than most Martin strings. But the diameter of the Bass E is bigger than I like and causes a note to be sharp at 12th fret...a problem I had solved with light silk and phosphor strings.
Will give the Santa Cruz strings a fair shake, especially since they are so pricey. Silk and prosper is much more buttery for playing. But the real issue is that fat bass E on the Santa Cruz strings. A smaller diameter and I’d be happy.
I prefer the sound of the Elixer's in this video but the SC may be easier to play for guys like me who have some neurothapy in their hands and they still sound good. Just a little more low end, slightly less crisp than the Elixers. More buoyant yet less defined in tone. Kinda springy. I like the Elixer's better but this video is great!
The Elixirs are great strings too! I also have some nerve issues in my hands at times and I have found that each guilt has a different preference for the strings it uses for comfort and tone…I have a couple that use the SC, but also still use Elixirs as well on a different one. Always go with your ears and what sounds and feels right for you. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment. ☺️🎶
Recently put these string on my HD28 2018 model. The tone of the Parabolic strings is pretty good but nothing special. Also, the volume definitely was lowered. It’s a good string but not worth the $18 I paid for. I wanted to see what the hype was about and wasn’t impressed. Gonna stick with what my guitar likes - GHS white bronze.
Kudos for trying them out...I have different strings for many of my guitars because each guitar seems to enjoy different strings 😉 I am a fan of these (as you can see) and I’ve found that the money isn’t too much as they last for ages.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Yeah no worries - my opinion on strings is just my opinion. Have you tried GHS white bronze? If you haven't, try them out. Brings out the bass and trebles and last a long time as well.
Yes I have an issue with the price as I do with Elixir, Thomastik-Infeld and several others. But it's not just that. I have not found them to be superior sounding and I have not found them to make for easier playability and that is why I do not find the price justifiable. At $18 a set plus shipping they have priced themselves out for me. I might spend $14, maybe $15 if shipping was included but just maybe. I prefer both Martin, D'Addario, and John Pearse.
Thanks for your feedback I personally find they improved the tone for me and I love the longevity of the strings....they last me quite a few months where the others were being changed every 2-4 weeks or so. I totally get the price putting people off and if you’re happy with the strings you already use then all is well. Which strings do you use on which guitars? 😊🎵
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I use either Martin Lifespan or regular SP's on my Martin OOO 16M and I have some Cleartone's that I will try with the next change. I use D'Addario PB on my Taylor. I put John Pearse light PB on my Bourgeois Signature OM Custom the last time that I changed them but I've only put about 10 hours playing time on that guitar in the 6 years that I've owned it as I'm a Martin guy through and through since my first one in 1972. I use GHS Boomer TNT's on my Tele that also sits in it's case most of the time and I use Augustine High Tension Blues on my Godin. I have other guitars somewhere that also sit unused now but can't remember what I put on them. Time to sell unused gear I guess.
Sounds like a pretty sweet collection you have there! Have you tried the new Martin SP’s yet? You’ll have to let me know what you think about the cleartones...I’ve not tried them. 😊🎵
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I have tried the SP's and I like them quite a lot and I am looking forward to hearing the Cleartones. I may put them on next week sometime.
$18 plus $5.95 shipping? No way bro. There are and have only been a few guitar string manufacturers and I'm sure these are made by one of them, and not a new company. But your playing and sound are awesome tho. Edit: is that a Martin guitar?
Cheers dude...much appreciated. Yes, it is a Martin. It’s my Retro 0015...a personal favourite of mine. Yeah it seems expensive...but I have found that if you look after them and keep them clean they can last up to six to eight months. Thanks for watching.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I have to agree about taking care of your equipment and washing your hands before you play every time. And wiping strings and guitar after playing. I have a Gibson J-45 cutaway on the way from GC. I had ordered the same guitar last November, but I'm sure GC advertises fictitious guitars on their website. The J-45 I ordered was rosewood back and sides, but they could not deliver, so supervisor took $500 off the regular spruce and mahogany model. If for some reason I'm not happy with it, I'll get a Martin 000-18. Either way, I'll end up with the Martin...just can't afford both right now. Take care brother!
Average Reviews From An Average Guy Thanks! Do you have tab for it? Or know if anything similar? I’m learning fingerstyle and looking for good and not to complicated pieces to practice.
@@thunderballstallion950 I have done a quick tab for you...I would love to see or hear you playing this when you've got it! I hope this helps and good luck with your playing. drive.google.com/file/d/1PfGfyyg0sD27mZ8cg_hXU6SBI6R-AzZW/view?usp=sharing
monkeysbum999 interesting.....I hadn’t noticed that before until you mentioned it. I think the softness of the Elixirs made me play more softly and vice versa with the Santa Cruz. Thanks for pointing it out....this may require further investigation with lots of different strings...... 😉
Honestly I think that I play these strings louder...they feel very strong and I kept finding myself digging in to them a bit more without thinking about it. I only noticed because another viewer pointed it out and now I can’t think of anything else when I play. That said, I do believe that they have a slight volume increase naturally too, but not a huge amount. Si
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy So that's the reason. The volume difference in the video is big. Unfortunately I have to pay almost the double for strings because I have to pay the shipping cost from USA to Europe. Guess I have to wait until I can find them in Europe.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Spain. I just wrote a Santa Cruz dealer in Germany. I need to try these strings. I recently found out that my classic guitar plays and sounds twice as good with the best strings, compared to all the other strings I had tried before. Knobloch is the best brand I have tried for classic guitars. They make a huge difference.
I don’t know the knobloch strings...I’ll have to look into them! Let me know how you get on with the Santa Cruz dealer.... It’s so true....having the right strings can really bring your guitar to the next level 😊
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I have been using Ernie Ball 80/20 bronze in my J45 Studio and they've been fine. Very articulate, clear, clean and balanced but they corroded rather quickly and have gone a bit dead so I am having a set of Ernie Balls Aluminum Bronze in medium light put in today. I'll pick up the guitar tomorrow. From what I have seen and heard about the Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze I think I'm going to like em a lot...but you just don't know until you play them - right? right.
I quite enjoy the excitement of new strings you haven’t tried before... I’m a big fan of the aluminum bronze, I use them on my OM Crafter Twin Birds and they sound lush. Let me know how you get on with them 🎵
That’s not good at all!! Tell Amazon and get replacements.... I’ve not come across anything like that myself...I wonder if any one else has? I hope you get it all sorted. Apart from the obvious annoyance how are you finding the strings?
That seems like a lot! Here in the UK they cost £18.99 which works out to just under $25. Luckily they seem to last a very long time, so keep them clean and healthy 😉🎵
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Light tension - I've contacted Santa Cruz to discuss the issue with them. My guess is that they are not a good match for this particular guitar.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Yes, I agree, based on the reviews, I was under the impression that they would take my guitar to new heights in terms of sound. Though in defense of the strings, I'd add that this guitar is particular, in that it has rosewood back and sides, which results in more bass than your typical super jumbo - and so I've learned that a careful string selection is required to balance out the instrument. With that said, the Satan Cruz company has offered to send me some medium tension strings under the premise that they may be better suited for this guitar. And while this is outstanding from a service standpoint, I've decided to make a sound recording to compare these with my previous set as well as my goto(default) strings for comparison before calling it. And so if you're interested, I can share my audio files with you once I've completed my case study if you'd like
What Santa Cruz deliberately avoids advertising is the gigantic gauges. Their lightest strings are 13-56....So if you want to add an extra 60 pounds of stress to your neck use 'em. I'm not being paid to advertise. i use expensive vintage guitars...and would not dare to rip a neck off with these. John Pearce 11 gauge sound better by a mile then these and come in at 123 pounds of stress total....Cruz is close to 200 pounds...at their lightest strings....do the research before you destroy a good guitar....ultimately, they will get sued out of existence.
I’ve not personally had any problems with the tension from these strings...but then I don’t use vintage guitars. I also do love the sound of the SC strings (as you probably already know). Thanks for commenting and keep on playing! 🎵
FWIW, someone posted the tension measurements in one of the forums. The medium tensions are in the mid 160’s and the light tensions are in the 150’s. So, maybe put down the phone and save the lawsuit idea for a broken sidewalk or something.
The cruz mid tension have way less overall tension than any other medium strings on the market ! Don’t understand what your talking about. 100 dollars says your wrong.
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I have the SC strings on both my Santa Cruz OM, Santa Cruz dreadnaught, and Martin OM28vs. The average time they've been installled at this point is about six months. I keep thinking maybe I should change to new ones, but they still sound so good I keep on playing them. For my ears and fingers, I am sold...using them exclusively now. Also, now and then they'll have a 3-for-2 offer, so that cuts down the price. Besides, if one changes strings every month or six weeks, as I used to, the cost of those less-expensive strings comes out a bit more than these. Plus, I have found that these SC strings sound really good for a longer percentage of their lives. I don't "hear' a gradual degradation in the sound as much as all the other strings I've used over many years. Thumbs up.
Actually that was one of the best review I’ve seen heard.
Best Strings I've tried so far
I have these on both my Martins and I love them....great tone and great feel all round.
which martins..(size) and which strings to the martins. Low tension or medium????
I bought a set of Santa Cruz for my Martin almost six months ago. They still sound amazing! They really bring out the full potential of playability and tone!
I have been really surprised with how long these strings remain great!
Which Martin are you using and which tension strings?
Average Reviews From An Average Guy
A 1997 Martin DCME with the medium tension parabolics. She never sounded so fine! By the way, thanks for your excellent review!
Average Reviews From An Average Guy
These strings have more than paid for themselves! I’m beginning to wonder if they are ever going to die?
Thanks for your kind words 😊
I had some on my Martin DCX 1KE which lasted 7 months before they started to dull slightly.
Average Reviews From An Average Guy
Wow!
I've tried both low tension and mid tension on my D-18 VS, and both worked wonderfully. The mid-tension was not harder to play at all, to the point the difference is quite negligible, in case you're worried the mid-tension would be hard on your fingers!
Yeah...I’ve used both and couldn’t tell you the difference either. Thanks for the comment 😊🎵
I put mid-tension on my 1999 Martin HD-28 and they sound great and last a long time. Highly recommend.
They really do compliment a Martin, don't they?
They're roughly the same gauge (roughly 10s) but the wound strings the ratio of core wire to wrap wire changes the tension. Now generally thicker strings have more tension than thinner strings, & yes the heavier tension strings are great for lower tunings like Eb Standard & D Standard.
I'm interested that so many people gave these stering such positive reviews. I've used them on my small body McQuarrie and I cannot see what the fuss is about. They're a fraction louder in most contexts (not strumming). they are good strings, but here in the UK they come in at least £24. That's a lot more than Elixir, and a lot, lot more than uncoated quality strings. As for the warm tone, well yes, they do have that, but to my ear, far too much of it. Other review sites have much more of a mix of comments. I can only echo the average reviewer's comments. Give them a try. I didn't like them on my Martin or my Mcquarrie and I probably won't try them again. However, even at £24, a set of strings is one of the cheapest ways of exporing changes to your guitar's tone. Cheaper yet is changing your pick or (if you are mainly a fingerpicker, like me) your nail care.
Kings new clothes matey !!
Seen many people gushing about these, but to my ears they lack bass, and sound a bit flat and boring.
I guess some people think louder is better.
I'll stick to Elixir polyweb custom lights thanks, great sounding on my Lowden, hardly any string squeak (which is something I hate), and last a long time.
They're like Strings for Bowed instruments in a way because they're also referred to by the tension as opposed to gauge.
MIND. BLOWN. I have never heard such an enormous difference in guitar strings. The Santa Cruz string DESTROY the Elixirs, beat them up, take their lunch money and laugh in their face 😳
🤣
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I'm loving the Santa Cruz strings on my Martin D-42. This video depicts a really good tonal comparison between the Elixirs and Santa Cruz strings. The Elixirs sound good. The Santa Cruz sound amazing!
Nice playing by the way! 😉
Thank you for this review. Santa Cruz Guitar Company has a special deal on these this week, "Buy three for the price of two" by adding three to your cart and the discount code will reduce the total price by one set. I plan to give a set to a friend who plays a Taylor 814ce, and will try them on a Cole Clark Angel. TH-cam's compression algorithm didn't smother the differences!
That sounds like a sweet deal! Please do let me know how they sound on your Cole Clark Angel! Thanks so much for watching ☺️🎶
I have been using the Parabolic Low Tension strings for well over a year on different guitars and they are exactly as you have said, long-lasting and sounding great. The playability is better than anything out there. Price shouldn't even be mentioned as a concern when the strings last longer than anything else. I've even put these strings on guitars that barely sounded good and these strings are like magic.
Yeah...I’m a big fan
Which guitars are you using?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I have two guitars. A Collings OM1 and a Rainsong hybrid carbon parlor model. I also have a custom Collings tenor ukelele.
I bet they sound amazing on the Collings!
Is the Rainsong a carbon fiber guitar?
If so, how do they sound on a non wooden guitar?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy they sound wonderful on the Collings and they absolutely transform the carbon Rainsong.
Just installed my second set on my Brook Taw and I have to say I am liking them a lot. I am a big fan of Newtone round core but I have to admit these seem to have the edge. If they feel right hey will play right, that is my motto. Not tried the Mid's yet but I am thinking Long Scale 650mm
I have Mids on my dreadnaught and I love them! I haven't tried Newtones yet, but I have a Tonk Bros Parlour on order that comes with them fitted as standard so I'll see soon enough :)
After I saw your review I put a set of the low tension strings on my Santa Cruz Style 1. It sounds like someone turned up the volume and installed a Reverb tank, An amazing improvement in tone, clarity and volume on an already wonderful sounding guitar. Thanks!
That’s awesome! I’m so glad they’re working out for you. Thanks for the comment 😊🎵
No doubt they're a good string from all I've heard I'm about to try a set of mid-tensions. But I have to ask, did you replace a set of strings that had lost some of their original tone. Because any new set of strings, replacing an older one increases volume, clarity and sustain. I thought Santa Cruz was more about tone.
I've dying believe there's more than just a tad of volume difference between strings of the same gauge, perhaps barring radically different materials of some niche string types. There will be some variation with materials used. Multi-coated for example sound partially worn to me and type of metal might affect volume a little, but mostly tone.
The strings I replaced were not brand new, but they were also not worn. They had been played in for a couple of weeks.
Let me know how you get on with the new strings....and which guitar you’re using them on 😉🎵
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I was meaning with Dave since he reported echo (sounds like he meant sustain) and more volume. I did notice more volume in most of your tests with the Santa Cruz, but that could have been style of play and position near the mic after changing strings. I changed volume to level match. I liked to tonal balance better with the Santa Cruz strings better.
I'm still holding off changing my elixers on my A series Yamaha, because I'm enjoying the way it sounds quite well, but I will report back when I do.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy hey man. Just put on the Santa Cruz mid-tension strings as realized my guitar strings were dying. Obviously the guitar sounded way way better with new strings, but I also have to say, these sound better than new Elixers. The strings are closer in volume and also don't seem to have much in the way of a coated string veil. It balanced the sound of my guitar and they have a little more umph to the tone.
I Have them on a Yamaha cutaway A series. Spruce top, mahogany back and sides. I think I'm going to order another set to have on hand. We'll see how long they last without going dull. Thanks for the review. I've been curious about these for a while. Pretty jazzed on them.
WOW! I can not believe the huge difference. It is almost as if you changed the recording settings and made it much louder and more resonant with the string change to the santa cruz strings. I just ordered a pack
Awesome! I hope you enjoy them...keep me posted on how you get on with them 😊🎵
Huge difference !!! I looked away so I could judge by the sound and looked back each change and could tell which set was playing.
I really love them! Thanks for watching 🎵
Have to say I don’t care what strings cost, so long as they represent the best sound my Martin OO-18 can produce. I’ve used DAddario SX and Elixir and Santa Cruz parabolic just gave a natural sound with good sonic quality. I feel there excellent and worth the money. Never could under stand why a person buys a beautiful high end guitar for 2k or more, but won’t put on high end strings to receive the best sound. Great video and great strings!
Unfortunately $ doesn’t = good sound…..😬🙏
Just instaleld my second set on my Brook Taw and I have to say I am liking them a lot. I am a big fan of Newtone roundcore but I have to admit these seem to have the edge. If they feell rightt hey will play right, that is my motto. Not tried the Mid's yet but I am thinking Long Scale 650mm
They sound great in the demos Ive heard. I have a Lowden S32, smaller OM-sized body. Going to pick up a packnof the lows today. Ive been ising Martin Luxe for the past month. Those sound good but are really stiff, and I used the 11s!
I agree completely. They're just that good! I use a lot of the D'Addario NB on many of my bigger guitars however on the 00 and 000 size guitars, these really do a great job and so I will stay with them on those. I do need to try them on one of my Dreads though. Thx for the great and clearly ear opening (EQ DIFFERENCE) review!
Biggun8262 Thanks for watching! I highly recommend trying some out on the dread....really worked for me
i just put them on a j45 and I'm very happy!
Awesome! 🎶🎶
Love these strings!!!
Yowza what a difference!! Way more resonance and what a gorgeous, warm tone they give... Nice 👌🏻
Put these in my OM John Mayer , sounds completely like a different guitar , and the OMJM sounds already great without these strings . highly recommended .
Nice guitar! Pleased the strings are working for you 🎵
I put a new set of Mid-Tension on my Santa Cruz Firefly. Wow! They are amazing.
I love the Santa Cruz Firefly!! What a lovely guitar you have....I hope these amazing strings do you proud 😉
Wait - Mid tension on a FireFly - I thought they recommend Low tension for small guitars? I have Low on my SC 1929-00 and it sounds and feels incredible - I'm now going to put Mid's on my OM thinking they will drive that size better.
Do you agree.....recommendations?? Thanks.
I used lows on my Crafter Twin Birds OM and they were sublime!
You are able to use mids on any size guitar, but it’s recommended that you have a setup done to adjust to the tension.
Personally I would use lows on an OM.
Hope that helps?
I put these strings on my Martin D28. Low tension. I have to really think hard to notice much different about them. I’ll keep them on for a month then see what I think. After a few days with them I think I prefer Martin Authentic medium gauge with a more lively low end.
Great review man, decent strings. Easier on the fingers than regular medium gauge strings. Only been on my d28 for 3 days so can't comment on longevity. But highly recommended 👌
Thanks! I have had them on my Martin dreadnaught now for about 7 months and they are just starting to dull a bit...and this thing gets played a lot! I’m really impressed with these strings and I hope they serve you well 😊
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy have you tried the retro strings by martin?
Not yet....but funnily enough I am about to try them out on my parlour.
I shall post a review in the next week or so as soon as my new album launch is done 👍
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I just put on the retro mediums and they play and sound great, they will probably replace my santa cruz, i look forward to another great review from you!👍👍👍
Great review - wanted to shout out your playing: lovely lovely lovely! Will be sitting down with my axe and a set of these strings to nick some of your playing here. 🎉😊
Great demo. I'll have to try these out.
I has been using medium gage DR Dragon skins. (Great string for me)
I tried the low tension SCGC strings. They are easier to play, but not as loud. I'm still undecided.
I’ve never used the DR Dragon....at the end of the day you need to pick the string that feels right for you, whichever that may be. I use a variety of different strings across my guitars.
Let me know which you choose in the end 😉🎵
These strings sound great on a Martin DCX-1KE Dreadnaught ;)
Interesting that you said Mid for Jumbo etc and Low for OM. Would the scale length dictate the choice, i.e. Mid for Long scale and Low for short scale? I don't think you can judge on sound alone feel and playability are just as important. I think the SC score higher in that category.
According to the Santa Cruz website the low tension are for the smaller guitars and mid for larger. They even say you can use either on any guitar but you may need to make set up adjustments for them to work properly. I completely agree....I've found strings in the past that sound great but just don't quite feel right.
I'm interested in this question, too. I have a long scale Bourgeois OM, and hope to put the correct SC strings on it. Low. or Mid Tension?
I love everything about average, however these strings are WAAAAYYYY beyond average!! LOOOOVE them!!
Me too!!
Thanks for your review. I'll give them a try, but I have to say that Elixers, even Nanoweb, don't sound great compared to uncoated strings. People buy them because they are longer-lived. At least, that has always been my impression. Though I last tried them years ago, it was my experience as well. I went back to uncoated strings after one or two tries because the Nanowebs sounded dull in comparison. I think a comparison with a standard-gauge set of phosphor bronze strings (or, if possible, whatever alloy Santa Cruz uses) would have been more fair. I do intend to buy a couple of sets of the SC medium tension strings to try on my D28 and my acoustic L7. I have been using John Pearse phosphor bronze mediums on the D28 and Pearse nickel-wound mediums on the L7. I'm about to try the Pearse new mediums on both. When I decide what I like best so far on each, I'll get the SC sets and compare.
I bought some Santa Cruz in Jan. 2021 and still have them on my faith guitar today Dec. 2021 and play everyday with and without a plectrum and the strings still look and feel good. They still sound OK but not as good as I thought they might, but that could be me. I don't like Elixir strings because they seem to sound dumpf after a few weeks. D'Addario strings are very good which I like a lot and came with the guitar. I will buy some more Santa Cruz and maybe try the low tension because the mid tension seems to be a little on the hard side, probably because I'm getting old. I can't decide what is the best for me, its either Daddarios or Santa Cruz
diggin your Capo... I just bought one... I support the Bees!
Awesome! I’m a fan of the Thalia’s (I did a review on them a little while back). I have 3 different ones...but no bee yet 😉
I've spent a fortune with Thalia Capos! The bees got me so bad that I had to buy a Honeyburst Les Paul. GAS is real! 😄
@@HighLow66 me too..... but I recently canceled an order bc its taking months to get a simple, non custom capo. They have also disconnected their phone ... which is never a good sign.
They sounded louder in the video than the Elixirs, don't know if something was done in the recording to alter the sound but they were definitely noticeably louder. Or maybe you were playing softer with the Elixirs?
I kept the settings the same for the recording....the Santa Cruz strings do come through a tad louder I think.
There are slight differences in the way each set of strings made me play. For example, the Santa Cruz made me want to dig in more for the fingerpicking than the elixirs, but if you watch the strumming you can see that I attack the elixirs a bit more than the SC.
Mindblowing is - in Your video - especially the difference in loudness - when picking distinctly more than strumming. When I put them on my Iain Russel Concert it was a revelation! Not only volume, but more overtones, projection, sustain and better string separation.
Did You already try them with DADGAD? I 'm not sure wether to take low or mid tension strings for this purpose.
Yeah, I love them! I’ve used DADGAD on my dreadnaught with mid tension and it was great...no issues at all and the same sweet sound. Thanks for the comment 😊🎵
Excellent review. I've used these strings on my Santa Cruz Tony Rice D. They sound great. However, when recording, I seem to have more difficulty getting a clean separation of tones than when I record with Elixir strings. Maybe it's just that I need to experiment more with my pre-amp settings and I am not used to what these parabolic strings can do.
Very interesting...I’ve not come across any trouble myself with recording.
Keep us posted on how you get on with the experiments.
I am getting to try them on my Collings Guitars! Thanks for the review.
I’ve always loved the look and sound of Collings guitars but I’ve never had the pleasure of playing one.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Collings guitars are top notch. Martins can't compete with them. Thanks for this review. I need to try them on my OM.
@@Morten_Nielsen1979 come on really, which Martin guitar? Collings actually remind me a lot of some Martin guitars. Every guitar is different. Especially when you compare price points and individual stand out guitars, they're very similar. Don't be all biased and snobby.
@@ramspencer5492 You are the one being biased and snobby - not me. Go to a shop that sells both Martin and Collings and try them for yourself.
@@Morten_Nielsen1979 wow! Whatever, hold on to your conclusions about brand instead of individual guitars! LMAO! Enjoy your sweet guitar. I'm sure it really is lovely.
I use EXP strings on my 50 year old Ibanez handmade custom 6string dreadnaught. It has a strong bass warmth which has increased over the years. Do you know how the Santa Cruz strings impact the lows on a vintage guitar?
Truth be told I don’t. I have only used them on more modern guitars...It could be worth trying to get in touch with Santa Cruz themselves and see if they reply?
I play 11s on my 00 sized aria parlour. It’s listed as a parlour but got 25.5 scale and 14 fret joint. Would the low tension be similar to the 11s in feel?
I only just got it secondhand and opted for Martin 11s as never really liked daddarios nano and the martins sound amazing but the bending is stiff. Electric player normally so anything up from 10 is hard work lol. Thanks for the good video
Wow! They sound great. The Elixir's sounded a bit brittle in comparison! And...they are SOLD OUT! Nothing on Amazon or Ebay, nothing coming up on Google or Bing. None on my local guitar shop websites either. Do they only sell them from their own website?
Oh no! They are normally available from other suppliers...hopefully they’ll get some back in stock soon.
Keep me posted with how you get on.
Hi there, great review. Subscribed ☺️ going to order a set. If I may ask, what are the names of the songs/melody’s you play at the beginning of review? Have a nice day 👍🏻
Thanks!! Let me know how you get on with them ☺️
Which songs do you mean? The intro music or the ones I play in the review? 🎵
Great review. However, I’d like to hear the SC strings on a dreadnought. Could you use the low tension on a D-28 if you mainly play finger style, or would the high tension more suited? Thank you.
Thank you...I should have pulled the dreadnaught out for the review too..I thought about that after finishing it.
The mid tension is designed for dreads, however I have never tested the lows on a larger bodied guitar...
The tension of the mids on my dread feel pretty sweet and very easy to play though.
i just put the low tension on my D-28 without knowing about the low and medium's ( just found out about it lol, i got these strings to try them for they just got them in the shop ) but i was surprised and my son also! but for sure i get the medium's now for the next change! for now i am more than happy playing these for a while!
I think the elixir sounded a little more robust richer sounding the Santa Cruz's seem like they were a little Tenney bright sounding but I'm using a cellphone speaker I may give them a try Thanks for sharing
Thanks for commenting....let me know how you get on with them if you try them out
For some of the tunes, I thought the same thing on the first round of listening...which I did on a Surface laptop with its crappy speakers. Then I plugged in with headphones for a second listen - major difference. To my ear, the difference is similar to the removal of low register noise. With the headphones, it was as though a sound engineer had cleared out white noise interference on the Santa Cruz string tunes. The Elixirs sounded muddy in comparison. I love Elixirs, but the tonal separation and clarity achieved with the Santa Cruz strings sets them apart.
Without the recording. Which would you say are louder. I can hear the Santa Cruz is better balanced after seeing this. But is that only plugged in. I feel on smaller guitars more tension would be louder. But Santa Cruz is definitely more balanced. But volume matters just as much to me. Are Santa Cruz just as loud as elixers?
I find the Santa Cruz have more projection than the Elixirs...I’ve used them on my Dreadnaught and 00 and the results were the same.
I just got mine in the mail, yet to string 'em up. Curious beyond belief to hear how they sing. 😷👍🎸🎶
Excellent! Which guitar are you putting them on?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Yamaha FG480 ... it has Ernie Ball Hybrid Slinkys, currently 😜
Cool...let me know how you get on with the SCs 😀🎵
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Well, my initial impression, as with most new bronze acoustic strings, is their fresh metallic crispiness and gong-like resonance. They are taking a while to settle in, to stay in tune. 🤔 My last tuning, after letting them rest a bit, I decided to drop the whole thing down a whole step, to see, hear and feel the effect on the tuning, and more ease of the bending.
Need more time to play, but they are riding well, so far. 😷👍
Excellent...my advice is play lots, then play a bit more. 😉 Keep me posted 🎵
Am I the only one who thinks elixir sounded better? Santa Cruz sound metallic to me and very hifi. That's not a Martin sound I have in my head. Great demo though, thank you!
That's not a test. This is a test. Take off that silly capo and play a full barre chord F at the first fret. Now that's a test.
If it is lower tension then you will notice the tension difference right away.
So why didn't you play some barre chords ?
Low tension strings; low tension vocal delivery - nice :)
You gotta commit to these things 🤣🎵
How do the Santa Cruz strings handle alternate tunings?
I tried them on my Mossman. Arguably better than most Martin strings. But the diameter of the Bass E is bigger than I like and causes a note to be sharp at 12th fret...a problem I had solved with light silk and phosphor strings.
How odd...I’ve not heard of that problem before. Are you back to using Silk & Phosphor now?
Will give the Santa Cruz strings a fair shake, especially since they are so pricey. Silk and prosper is much more buttery for playing. But the real issue is that fat bass E on the Santa Cruz strings. A smaller diameter and I’d be happy.
I do love the feel of the silk...but I’ve always found for me the tone and volume suffers slightly.
Let me know how you get on...and good luck 😉
Would the low tension set be “comparable” in feel and bendability to say, a .011 gauge set?
Or lighter... in the area of .010?
I personally think they feel more comparable to medium light gauge strings. I would say closer to a .012/.013.
Hope that helps?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy
Cool thanks!!
Good Job
Thank You
Do you know how it differs in terms of feel and playability between this parabolic tension vs. balanced tension? E.g. daddario NB balanced tension.
I personally prefer the SC...I find they have a slightly more balanced tone and a bit more give to the strings...
Sound more robust. How do they feel on your fingers compared to the Nano’s?
They’re not quite as soft as the nanowebs, but they are still a very comfortable string to play.
Hope that helps?
Si
What alloy are you using: phosphor bronze or 80/20 and is each set the same alloy?
Good question!....
The original strings were 80/20 with nanoweb coating.
I’m not 100% sure on the SC strings. I will see if I can find out for you.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Thanks. I contacted SC and they tell me they are Phosphor bronze.
I prefer the sound of the Elixer's in this video but the SC may be easier to play for guys like me who have some neurothapy in their hands and they still sound good. Just a little more low end, slightly less crisp than the Elixers. More buoyant yet less defined in tone. Kinda springy. I like the Elixer's better but this video is great!
The Elixirs are great strings too! I also have some nerve issues in my hands at times and I have found that each guilt has a different preference for the strings it uses for comfort and tone…I have a couple that use the SC, but also still use Elixirs as well on a different one. Always go with your ears and what sounds and feels right for you.
Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment. ☺️🎶
anyone know what the med tension strings sound like on j45 or a concert size taylor???
What tension would you suggest for a dreadnaught shape guitar?
You would use mid tension for a dreadnaught. Thanks ☺️🎶
Recently put these string on my HD28 2018 model. The tone of the Parabolic strings is pretty good but nothing special. Also, the volume definitely was lowered. It’s a good string but not worth the $18 I paid for. I wanted to see what the hype was about and wasn’t impressed. Gonna stick with what my guitar likes - GHS white bronze.
Kudos for trying them out...I have different strings for many of my guitars because each guitar seems to enjoy different strings 😉
I am a fan of these (as you can see) and I’ve found that the money isn’t too much as they last for ages.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Yeah no worries - my opinion on strings is just my opinion.
Have you tried GHS white bronze? If you haven't, try them out. Brings out the bass and trebles and last a long time as well.
I haven’t yet...I’ll look into them, thanks!
Yes I have an issue with the price as I do with Elixir, Thomastik-Infeld and several others. But it's not just that. I have not found them to be superior sounding and I have not found them to make for easier playability and that is why I do not find the price justifiable. At $18 a set plus shipping they have priced themselves out for me. I might spend $14, maybe $15 if shipping was included but just maybe. I prefer both Martin, D'Addario, and John Pearse.
Thanks for your feedback
I personally find they improved the tone for me and I love the longevity of the strings....they last me quite a few months where the others were being changed every 2-4 weeks or so.
I totally get the price putting people off and if you’re happy with the strings you already use then all is well.
Which strings do you use on which guitars?
😊🎵
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I use either Martin Lifespan or regular SP's on my Martin OOO 16M and I have some Cleartone's that I will try with the next change. I use D'Addario PB on my Taylor. I put John Pearse light PB on my Bourgeois Signature OM Custom the last time that I changed them but I've only put about 10 hours playing time on that guitar in the 6 years that I've owned it as I'm a Martin guy through and through since my first one in 1972. I use GHS Boomer TNT's on my Tele that also sits in it's case most of the time and I use Augustine High Tension Blues on my Godin. I have other guitars somewhere that also sit unused now but can't remember what I put on them. Time to sell unused gear I guess.
Sounds like a pretty sweet collection you have there! Have you tried the new Martin SP’s yet? You’ll have to let me know what you think about the cleartones...I’ve not tried them. 😊🎵
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I have tried the SP's and I like them quite a lot and I am looking forward to hearing the Cleartones. I may put them on next week sometime.
Hi, I feel like Santa Cruz strings sounds more bright and rich.
For me it’s all about the definition…I really like how each individual string is heard. Are you using them?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I use Daddario Exp16 and Elixir phosphor bronze 12s on my Taylor 224ce Koa deluxe special edition.
Cool cool. That’s a nice guitar you’ve got there!
$18 plus $5.95 shipping? No way bro. There are and have only been a few guitar string manufacturers and I'm sure these are made by one of them, and not a new company. But your playing and sound are awesome tho.
Edit: is that a Martin guitar?
Cheers dude...much appreciated. Yes, it is a Martin. It’s my Retro 0015...a personal favourite of mine. Yeah it seems expensive...but I have found that if you look after them and keep them clean they can last up to six to eight months. Thanks for watching.
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I have to agree about taking care of your equipment and washing your hands before you play every time. And wiping strings and guitar after playing. I have a Gibson J-45 cutaway on the way from GC. I had ordered the same guitar last November, but I'm sure GC advertises fictitious guitars on their website. The J-45 I ordered was rosewood back and sides, but they could not deliver, so supervisor took $500 off the regular spruce and mahogany model. If for some reason I'm not happy with it, I'll get a Martin 000-18. Either way, I'll end up with the Martin...just can't afford both right now. Take care brother!
the volume was turned up when he played the Santa Cruz strings... not a fair review...
OMG!
you remind me of tom hardy in that movie bronson
🤣🤣🤣
2:05
What song are you paying at 3:35?
It’s just a little riff I made up for the purpose of the channel
Average Reviews From An Average Guy Thanks! Do you have tab for it? Or know if anything similar? I’m learning fingerstyle and looking for good and not to complicated pieces to practice.
@@thunderballstallion950 I have done a quick tab for you...I would love to see or hear you playing this when you've got it! I hope this helps and good luck with your playing.
drive.google.com/file/d/1PfGfyyg0sD27mZ8cg_hXU6SBI6R-AzZW/view?usp=sharing
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Thanks so much!!!! I'll give this a try and post a vid when I get a chance.
No probs...have fun!
you seem to play harder when using the parabolic tension strings ,you hit the strings differently specifically not as softly
monkeysbum999 interesting.....I hadn’t noticed that before until you mentioned it. I think the softness of the Elixirs made me play more softly and vice versa with the Santa Cruz. Thanks for pointing it out....this may require further investigation with lots of different strings...... 😉
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I think mine is actually a bit louder, but of cou,rse I don't have a means of supporting that claim.
They sound much louder. Are they louder in real life?
Honestly I think that I play these strings louder...they feel very strong and I kept finding myself digging in to them a bit more without thinking about it.
I only noticed because another viewer pointed it out and now I can’t think of anything else when I play.
That said, I do believe that they have a slight volume increase naturally too, but not a huge amount.
Si
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy So that's the reason. The volume difference in the video is big.
Unfortunately I have to pay almost the double for strings because I have to pay the shipping cost from USA to Europe. Guess I have to wait until I can find them in Europe.
Where are you based?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy Spain. I just wrote a Santa Cruz dealer in Germany. I need to try these strings. I recently found out that my classic guitar plays and sounds twice as good with the best strings, compared to all the other strings I had tried before. Knobloch is the best brand I have tried for classic guitars. They make a huge difference.
I don’t know the knobloch strings...I’ll have to look into them!
Let me know how you get on with the Santa Cruz dealer....
It’s so true....having the right strings can really bring your guitar to the next level 😊
SC strings seem to be a but dull and muddled in the low end.
That’s interesting to hear. Which strings do you use at the moment?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy I have been using Ernie Ball 80/20 bronze in my J45 Studio and they've been fine. Very articulate, clear, clean and balanced but they corroded rather quickly and have gone a bit dead so I am having a set of Ernie Balls Aluminum Bronze in medium light put in today. I'll pick up the guitar tomorrow. From what I have seen and heard about the Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze I think I'm going to like em a lot...but you just don't know until you play them - right? right.
I quite enjoy the excitement of new strings you haven’t tried before...
I’m a big fan of the aluminum bronze, I use them on my OM Crafter Twin Birds and they sound lush. Let me know how you get on with them 🎵
Well.... Mic is a different position.....you can't make sound comparison like this😵
No comment !!!
Santa Cruz are better
i just bought 3 sets on amazon...2 of the sets came with 2-high e strings and no b strings. Im pissed!!!
That’s not good at all!!
Tell Amazon and get replacements....
I’ve not come across anything like that myself...I wonder if any one else has?
I hope you get it all sorted.
Apart from the obvious annoyance how are you finding the strings?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy they are great... ut a single set cost me $60
That seems like a lot! Here in the UK they cost £18.99 which works out to just under $25.
Luckily they seem to last a very long time, so keep them clean and healthy 😉🎵
I put these on my Custom shop SJ and they didn't sound good at all - very disappointed for the price
Well that’s no good! Which tension did you use?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy
Light tension - I've contacted Santa Cruz to discuss the issue with them.
My guess is that they are not a good match for this particular guitar.
@@SmalltimR That's so strange...I would have thought they would have been great on an SJ. Keep me posted on how it all works out?
@@AverageReviewsFromAnAverageGuy
Yes, I agree, based on the reviews, I was under the impression that they would take my guitar to new heights in terms of sound.
Though in defense of the strings, I'd add that this guitar is particular, in that it has rosewood back and sides, which results in more bass than your typical super jumbo - and so I've learned that a careful string selection is required to balance out the instrument.
With that said, the Satan Cruz company has offered to send me some medium tension strings under the premise that they may be better suited for this guitar.
And while this is outstanding from a service standpoint, I've decided to make a sound recording to compare these with my previous set as well as my goto(default) strings for comparison before calling it.
And so if you're interested, I can share my audio files with you once I've completed my case study if you'd like
I would be very interested to hear the comparison indeed, thanks.
Which strings were using previously?
What Santa Cruz deliberately avoids advertising is the gigantic gauges. Their lightest strings are 13-56....So if you want to add an extra 60 pounds of stress to your neck use 'em. I'm not being paid to advertise. i use expensive vintage guitars...and would not dare to rip a neck off with these. John Pearce 11 gauge sound better by a mile then these and come in at 123 pounds of stress total....Cruz is close to 200 pounds...at their lightest strings....do the research before you destroy a good guitar....ultimately, they will get sued out of existence.
I’ve not personally had any problems with the tension from these strings...but then I don’t use vintage guitars.
I also do love the sound of the SC strings (as you probably already know).
Thanks for commenting and keep on playing! 🎵
FWIW, someone posted the tension measurements in one of the forums. The medium tensions are in the mid 160’s and the light tensions are in the 150’s. So, maybe put down the phone and save the lawsuit idea for a broken sidewalk or something.
The cruz mid tension have way less overall tension than any other medium strings on the market ! Don’t understand what your talking about. 100 dollars says your wrong.
My fear is breaking a string with these and having to spend another $30 for a set delivered.