Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$8.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (3)
$8.99
Amazon
4.7 (602)
$8.99
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$8.99
Thomann
4.7 (11)
$7.70 $7.60 $0.10 · All time low

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Martin Marquis Light". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

When it comes to giving your acoustic guitar the care it deserves, the Cf Martin&Co Marquis Light strings offer an exceptional blend of protection and performance. Designed by the experts at C.F. Martin & Co., these strings feature a unique silk wrap at the ball ends, providing an extra layer of defense against wear and tear on your guitar's bridge and bridge plate. This subtle yet innovative feature ensures that your instrument maintains its pristine condition, even under the rigorous demands of frequent playing and restringing.

Built with the performer in mind, the Marquis Light strings utilize a high tensile-strength core wire that is tin-plated on all six strings for superior corrosion resistance. This design not only extends the lifespan of your strings but also ensures a consistent, true tone that you can rely on from the first note to the last. Whether you're strumming at an intimate gig or performing on a grand stage, these strings deliver clarity and response that resonate with both players and listeners alike.

Available in a light gauge, they offer excellent playability with a gauge range of 12-16-25-32-42-54. This makes them versatile enough to cater to various playing styles, from intricate fingerpicking to bold strumming.

Key Features:

  • Silk-wrapped ball ends for enhanced bridge protection
  • High tensile-strength core wire, tin-plated for corrosion resistance
  • Light gauge: 12-16-25-32-42-54
  • Consistent, true tone for reliable performance
  • Designed for superior tone and playability

Product specs

Guitar Type Acoustic Guitar
Number of Strings 6
Coated No
Gauges .012, .016, .025, .032, .042, .054
Core Material Steel
Winding Material Silk and 80/20 Bronze
Winding Type Round Wound

FAQs

What is the benefit of the silk wrapping on Martin MA140S Marquis strings?

The silk wrapping on the Martin MA140S Marquis strings helps protect the bridge and bridge plate from wear and tear, offering a smoother playing experience and extending the life of your guitar.

Are Martin MA140S Authentic Acoustic Marquis strings suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the light gauge and silk-wrapped design of Martin MA140S strings make them ideal for fingerstyle playing, offering a balanced tone with comfortable playability.

What is the tonal characteristic of the 80/20 bronze winding on these strings?

The 80/20 bronze winding on Martin MA140S strings provides a bright, crisp tone with excellent projection, making them suitable for a wide range of acoustic playing styles.

Are Martin MA140S strings good for beginners?

Yes, Martin MA140S strings are a great choice for beginners due to their light gauge, which requires less finger pressure, making them easier to play and more comfortable for new guitarists.

How often should I change my Martin MA140S guitar strings?

The frequency of changing Martin MA140S strings depends on your playing habits, but generally, it is recommended to change them every 1-3 months to maintain optimal tone and playability.

Reviews

PROS

  • Bright, clean sound with excellent clarity

  • Minimal string squeak, suitable for recording

  • Silk-wrapped ball ends protect bridge holes

  • Versatile sound across various guitar brands

  • Easy on the fingers, ideal for players with less calloused hands

  • Strings stay in tune well after initial setup

  • Added bass without muddying higher strings

  • Great sound projection on smaller guitars

  • High-quality sound on both acoustic and amplified guitars

  • Outstanding value for the quality offered

CONS

  • Possible inconsistency in string gauge (notably the 3rd string)

  • Initial oxidation residue on fingers after stretching

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin Marquis Light.

Use cases and applications

  • Martin Marquis Light strings are recommended for better bending ability, especially suited for bluegrass styles.

    Source
  • For a 1968 D-35 used in folk with a pick, phosphor bronze mediums by D'Addario offer balanced tone.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners have compared the Martin GPCPA5 to models like the D-18, noting differences in sound but emphasizing the signature Martin tone remains present even in lower-priced models.

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  • Martin Retro strings offer a woody, mellow tone, while D'Addario EJ17s provide a brighter sound with more overtones on vintage Martins.

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User experience

  • Some owners prefer D’Addario NB 13-56 strings for solid spruce top Martins, highlighting personal preference based on playing style.

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  • Owners with long-term experience report Martin Retro and Kovars strings make their D-18s more responsive.

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  • Martin Lifespan 2.0 light gauge phosphor bronze strings are favored by some D-35 owners for their consistent performance.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It's recommended to use 12s or lighter gauge strings on older D-35s to avoid excessive tension and potential damage.

    Source
  • Routine maintenance is crucial for older guitars; regular check-ups are advised for instruments over a few decades old.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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