I was a bit surprised at how small the difference was. The Martins sound more succinct, a little clearer, but the volume definitely takes a hit. I was surprised that the Aquila sounded that much louder! But, you say that the Martins are much louder, so maybe I am just not hearing it as well as I should! Great review!
I just came across some of your videos. I am digging them. Why? Because unlike some video comparisons where they are using very high end ukuleles and the sound would never be anything like I would ever be able to replicate, you are using mainstream ukuleles that majority of folks can buy and use. So, you are very relatable and I really appreciate that. Loving your content!
I went into this sound comparison with a bias because I have successfully replaced Aquila Nylguts for clear fluorocarbons. Having done so I was considering and assuming I would be better off switching all my ukes to clear fluorocarbon strings. This comparison shocked me: Aquila all the way with the uke. I was shocked that the Martins disappointed me. The Aquila had more clarity and the Martins made it sound like it was in an empty hallway or tunnel. I had the exact opposite reaction to you. 😐😲
I like the Martin's more. They were more articulate sounding to me. The larger difference with your Bruce Wei would more likely be due to an over built or over braced sound board rather than being solid wood. Aquilla strings that come on most instruments don't have enough tension to properly activate an over built (too thick) or over braced soundboard so the difference when switching to a higher tension string that can properly activate the sound board is more dramatic. Keep up the great work, I really enjoy your comparison videos.
Hello Jodie, I shared this video via link in a mail to my ukulele group. ☺ I also like Martin Strings. I use them for my Makala Dolphin Soprano Ukes. On this Luna Uke they sound very booming - for me the sound is sometimes a little bit overdriven. But that can also come from the type of recording. Anyway, I would prefer them because I think the sound is more balanced than the Aquila strings. Be blessed and greetings from Germany!!!
I just ordered a set of Martin M600 strings for my 1920s mahogany soprano Gibson Uke 1. This review is what convinced me to give them a try. I hope they sound as good on mine as they do yours. I really liked their tone and volume over my headphones. I have a Donner acoustic-electric concert uke that came with Aquila Nylgut strings. For some reason, the C string was louder and had a longer sustain than all the res. It took about one month of daily playing for them to hold their tune. They've settled now and sound great. But who wants to wait that long?
Hi Jodi! I think I like the Martin's better, but the Aquilas aren't bad. I shared this on the private Facebook page of my ukulele group. Thanks for the comparison!
I thought they were very close. The Aquila was slightly higher in tone . . . the Martin's a little lower and more mellow. I kinda liked the Aquila a little bit more. I shared this with my daughter by Messenger Lite.
Ho Jodi, I totally agree with your findings. As you know I do have a bias towards fluorocarbons anyway. The difference in quality of sound (both tonally and in volume) was most apparent when fingerpicked I think. You are quite right, there isn't going to be such an improvement on a laminate top as a solid top and that I think is to do with resonance. Bottom line is fluorocarbons will nearly always improve an instrument but not always as much as you may like. Especially on a laminate one.
I tried the Martin Premiums on my 2nd OXK I think I like the 600's more than the Premiums but may like the Worth BM the most. I left the 600's on my S1 & it sounds better than the OXKs. I'm wondering if we can run into setup problems when we switch strings I've only had a problem once with my KA-C
I don't know; the Aquila strings sound more.... full? resonant?...interesting observation about the martin strings being louder in person. Maybe I should try them on my Riptide solid acacia concert. I finally lowered the action on it which helped the intonation when I'm finger picking up on the neck. Still feel like I just WANT to like it more. Changing strings seems like a reasonable next step for a too quiet solid wood Uke...Thanks for making this video and your observations
I listened with headphones so maybe I heard more of a difference than some commenters feel they heard. I def like the Martin's a lot more. I mean a LOT more. Are they easy strings to play for beginners? I was considering getting a Luna but then was rethinking it due to the bassier sound, which I like in some contexts, but didn't want to have that particular sound as my first uke, which I'm hoping to buy very soon. But the string change here gave it more of a sound I prefer, though I do want to start with a concert size. I wish I could hear the difference on that size. Did you ever change the strings on the Flight travel Uke. You'd mentioned you were going to but I'm not sure if you did. I'd love to hear the difference there too, as you aren't the only reviewer of that uke that thought it would sound better with a different brand strings.
I thought the Martins had slightly better tone and they sounded better finger picked. It was surprising that the difference between two wasn’t as large as I was expecting. SHARED ON TWITTER ☮️ ❤️ 😃
I thought I heard a bit of muddiness in the Martin's on some secondary strumming, but they mostly sounded the same. I'm looking to put a low G on my Aklot tenor and thought I'd give the Martin's a try. Unfortunately, I couldn't find one. Guess I'll stay with Aquila.
Great comparison and review of the strings ! I’m sharing this to our New Ukulele club.....Marion Ukulele Society. Think this will be very interesting to our players.
I can hear the difference and prefers the softer vibrations of the Supernylgut. Are the two ukes exactly the same though? Should they be the same model, may the paint affect the sounds, too?
It is the same ukulele, but I did paint it 😉 Technically paint can effect the sound but I doubt that’s a factor in this comparison. Especially since the Martins (on the painted version) are MORE resonate and have better sustain.
That was a *dramatic* difference! Love the Martin M 600 Flurocarbon strings! Shared this on my FB page, visible to my FB Friends (not public). I can submit a screen shot if you would like proof. ;-)
I have found the Martins work better on my concert sized ukes, for the sopranos they liked a higher D tuning with the Martin strings. then they rang like bells.
using 2 different ukuleles surely helps to hear a difference in tone between the strings … 🤦♂️ And cheap plywood ukulele‘s always sound the same regardless.
I thought the Aquila strings sounded brighter.
I was a bit surprised at how small the difference was. The Martins sound more succinct, a little clearer, but the volume definitely takes a hit. I was surprised that the Aquila sounded that much louder! But, you say that the Martins are much louder, so maybe I am just not hearing it as well as I should! Great review!
Yes, the Martins are definitely louder. But I was surprised, too, that the difference wasn’t more distinct.
I just came across some of your videos. I am digging them. Why? Because unlike some video comparisons where they are using very high end ukuleles and the sound would never be anything like I would ever be able to replicate, you are using mainstream ukuleles that majority of folks can buy and use. So, you are very relatable and I really appreciate that. Loving your content!
Interesting comparison. Like you, I was surprised at how small of a difference there is this time around.
I went into this sound comparison with a bias because I have successfully replaced Aquila Nylguts for clear fluorocarbons. Having done so I was considering and assuming I would be better off switching all my ukes to clear fluorocarbon strings.
This comparison shocked me: Aquila all the way with the uke. I was shocked that the Martins disappointed me. The Aquila had more clarity and the Martins made it sound like it was in an empty hallway or tunnel.
I had the exact opposite reaction to you. 😐😲
I like the Martin's more.
They were more articulate sounding to me.
The larger difference with your Bruce Wei would more likely be due to an over built or over braced sound board rather than being solid wood. Aquilla strings that come on most instruments don't have enough tension to properly activate an over built (too thick) or over braced soundboard so the difference when switching to a higher tension string that can properly activate the sound board is more dramatic.
Keep up the great work, I really enjoy your comparison videos.
Hello Jodie, I shared this video via link in a mail to my ukulele group. ☺
I also like Martin Strings. I use them for my Makala Dolphin Soprano Ukes.
On this Luna Uke they sound very booming - for me the sound is sometimes a little bit overdriven.
But that can also come from the type of recording. Anyway, I would prefer them because I think the sound is more balanced than the Aquila strings.
Be blessed and greetings from Germany!!!
The Martins for sure. Tamed the brightness and it balanced the uke’s sound.
The Martins, to me, sounded clearer and I will get some for my Kala tenor. Thank you for this video Jodie, your playing is lovely.
I just ordered a set of Martin M600 strings for my 1920s mahogany soprano Gibson Uke 1. This review is what convinced me to give them a try. I hope they sound as good on mine as they do yours. I really liked their tone and volume over my headphones.
I have a Donner acoustic-electric concert uke that came with Aquila Nylgut strings. For some reason, the C string was louder and had a longer sustain than all the res. It took about one month of daily playing for them to hold their tune. They've settled now and sound great. But who wants to wait that long?
Thanks for the comparison. Its overwhelming trying to decide what strings to buy with so many choices.
I know. Good thing they aren’t that expensive. Just try one out and see how you like it. 😊
Hi Jody, I shared this video by emailing the video link to my daughter.
Hi Jodi! I think I like the Martin's better, but the Aquilas aren't bad. I shared this on the private Facebook page of my ukulele group. Thanks for the comparison!
I thought they were very close. The Aquila was slightly higher in tone . . . the Martin's a little lower and more mellow. I kinda liked the Aquila a little bit more.
I shared this with my daughter by Messenger Lite.
Ho Jodi, I totally agree with your findings. As you know I do have a bias towards fluorocarbons anyway. The difference in quality of sound (both tonally and in volume) was most apparent when fingerpicked I think. You are quite right, there isn't going to be such an improvement on a laminate top as a solid top and that I think is to do with resonance. Bottom line is fluorocarbons will nearly always improve an instrument but not always as much as you may like. Especially on a laminate one.
Hi jodi. I liked the new florocarbon strings the best.
Put the Martin M600's on my Enya nova U and they make a big difference, really nice. Thanks Jodi, 🌞❤️🎸🎶🇬🇧
I tried the Martin Premiums on my 2nd OXK I think I like the 600's more than the Premiums but may like the Worth BM the most. I left the 600's on my S1 & it sounds better than the OXKs. I'm wondering if we can run into setup problems when we switch strings I've only had a problem once with my KA-C
Video quality could have been better btw thanku for your review loved it 💕
I don't know; the Aquila strings sound more.... full? resonant?...interesting observation about the martin strings being louder in person. Maybe I should try them on my Riptide solid acacia concert. I finally lowered the action on it which helped the intonation when I'm finger picking up on the neck. Still feel like I just WANT to like it more. Changing strings seems like a reasonable next step for a too quiet solid wood Uke...Thanks for making this video and your observations
New Subsciber here !!! ♥️😁 i like the aquila one ... it has a great sound
I listened with headphones so maybe I heard more of a difference than some commenters feel they heard. I def like the Martin's a lot more. I mean a LOT more. Are they easy strings to play for beginners? I was considering getting a Luna but then was rethinking it due to the bassier sound, which I like in some contexts, but didn't want to have that particular sound as my first uke, which I'm hoping to buy very soon. But the string change here gave it more of a sound I prefer, though I do want to start with a concert size. I wish I could hear the difference on that size. Did you ever change the strings on the Flight travel Uke. You'd mentioned you were going to but I'm not sure if you did. I'd love to hear the difference there too, as you aren't the only reviewer of that uke that thought it would sound better with a different brand strings.
I thought the Martins had slightly better tone and they sounded better finger picked. It was surprising that the difference between two wasn’t as large as I was expecting. SHARED ON TWITTER ☮️ ❤️ 😃
I thought I heard a bit of muddiness in the Martin's on some secondary strumming, but they mostly sounded the same. I'm looking to put a low G on my Aklot tenor and thought I'd give the Martin's a try. Unfortunately, I couldn't find one. Guess I'll stay with Aquila.
Great comparison and review of the strings ! I’m sharing this to our New Ukulele club.....Marion Ukulele Society. Think this will be very interesting to our players.
So it’s been 3 years, what strings are ya using these days, still a fan of These Martin M6000 ?
Hi! Yes- these are still my favorite. For a low G I like Fremont Solo Squeakless low g
Martin’s for me… much more brighter. 😀🥳
I can hear the difference and prefers the softer vibrations of the Supernylgut. Are the two ukes exactly the same though? Should they be the same model, may the paint affect the sounds, too?
It is the same ukulele, but I did paint it 😉 Technically paint can effect the sound but I doubt that’s a factor in this comparison. Especially since the Martins (on the painted version) are MORE resonate and have better sustain.
i like both
That was a *dramatic* difference! Love the Martin M 600 Flurocarbon strings!
Shared this on my FB page, visible to my FB Friends (not public). I can submit a screen shot if you would like proof. ;-)
Thanks, Cate. Good luck on the giveaway!
I have found the Martins work better on my concert sized ukes, for the sopranos they liked a higher D tuning with the Martin strings. then they rang like bells.
Good to know. I might try that...
Please add how they feel to you I don't like how Aquila feels
Good point. They do seem easier on the fingers. Aquila’s can feel quite harsh.
*I feel Flourocarbon gives it an electric touch* maybe I could be wrong, is my
perception
I loved reading the comments. I thought the Martins sounded a lot better.
The Martin strings make the ukulele sound like the front of the body is painted.
Oh ... Wait ... Never mind. 💥😄💥
LOL
Cate Eales
🎶😎🎶
I found them fairly the same but I have read that Martin's are much more easy on the fingers.i sent my share on an email.
That’s true. The Martin strings are very smooth and easier on the fingers.
Nice video
Martin string for sure the Fluocarbon are 100% better sounding Jody
Like the martins
I prefer Martin, it sounded richer and less toyish, eventhough Aquila added more volume to the uke.
Ps. I shared on my fb.
It’s really hard to tell volume with UA-cam videos, but in person, the Martins were a lot louder.
It’s hard to compare when the strings are on different ukes.
It’s the same uke
Wow
Hmmmm...I liked them both. No clear winner in my opinion.
using 2 different ukuleles surely helps to hear a difference in tone between the strings … 🤦♂️ And cheap plywood ukulele‘s always sound the same regardless.
This is the same ukulele.
It's a useless comparison when you are doing it on two different instruments due to the variables.
It’s the same instrument
Your tests are not very scientific. Different camera angles & distance.
I never claimed to be a scientist 😉