Strings for old Martin A

[epicentre]

..............Which I just picked up from e.bay, and it's in need of TLC, but doable.

Does anyone have any opinion as to the gauge of strings which could be used on this?

I'm presently running Martin M400; 10- 14- 24- 34- , 80/20 bronze on my flattops, and was wondering if they might be ok.

The bracing on this one is great, and they seem to be a robust mandolin Ser.#12130

Any suggestions much appreciated.

[Steve L]

I've been using comparable gagues on mine (GHS A250s) for many years with no problems. I tried the Thomastik lights on there once but it wasn't the sound I was looking for.

[epicentre]

Thanks Steve; kind of thought they would be ok.

[Paul Hostetter]

Martins have a shorter 13" scale than Gibsons and because of the lower tension, generally they work well with D'Addario J-74s. J-73 (lighter gauge: 10 14 24 38) are sure worth a try too.

[epicentre]

Thanks Paul. I really like a 13" fretboard. Will give the J73's a try.