Dean Markley
23Also known as: Dean Markley USA, Dean Markley Strings
UnclaimedFounded in 1972 by Dean Markley in Santa Clara, California, Dean Markley USA is a string manufacturer with a long history in the guitar and bass world. The company is best known for its Blue Steel strings, which undergo a cryogenic freezing process using liquid nitrogen — a distinctive manufacturing approach that the brand claims extends string life and enhances tonal clarity. Beyond Blue Steel...
$8.70 - $10.29
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in Acoustic Guitar Pickups Rank
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in Acoustic Guitar Pickups Rank
$59.99
in Acoustic Guitar Pickups Rank
Founded in 1972 by Dean Markley in Santa Clara, California, Dean Markley USA is a string manufacturer with a long history in the guitar and bass world. The company is best known for its Blue Steel strings, which undergo a cryogenic freezing process using liquid nitrogen — a distinctive manufacturing approach that the brand claims extends string life and enhances tonal clarity. Beyond Blue Steel, their product catalog includes the NickelSteel Signature Series, Blackhawk Coated strings, and the SR2000 bass strings, which have a devoted following among bass players. Dean Markley produces strings for electric, acoustic, classical, and bass guitars, as well as mandolin, banjo, and ukulele.
In addition to strings, Dean Markley manufactures guitar and bass pickups, cables, and accessories. The company also created the Voice Box effects pedal in the 1970s, which gained widespread recognition through Peter Frampton's use of it on his landmark live recordings. Dean Markley's Artist Series signature string sets have featured players including Lita Ford, John 5, Orianthi, DJ Ashba, Doyle, and Malina Moye. The brand has been a staple at music trade shows and in guitar shops since the early days of the American string industry.
Dean Markley has 50 products cataloged on Equipboard, including Strings, Combo Guitar Amplifiers, and Acoustic Guitar Pickups. Their gear is featured by 80 artists, with the strongest followings in Rock, Pop, and Metal. Notable users include Kurt Cobain, Jonny Greenwood, and Peter Buck.
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