MARTIN GUITAR EXPANDS SP STRINGS PRODUCT

String Division. “We have been thrilled with the feedback we’ve received in the year since the SP LIFESPAN strings were introduced, and are launching these new products to support acoustic guitar players looking for a broader range of gauges.” “Players around the world are swapping out their coated strings for treated strings – a new patented technology that allows the strings to vibrate naturally yet delivers long life,” said Tim McNair, C. F. Martin & Co.’s director of sales and marketing, Nazareth, PA– July 11, 2011 - C.F. Martin & Co. (www.martinguitar.com) has today announced that it is expanding its successful Martin SP^® LIFESPAN^™ line of acoustic strings. Being shown at the 2011 Summer NAMM show in Nashville (July 21-23; Martin booth #1200) the new 12 String, Baritone and two Extra Light offerings will be available starting this fall.

Additionally, starting at Summer NAMM, Martin Guitar will kick off two strings promotions:

• “The Great Martin String Challenge” will take place at the Martin Summer NAMM booth (#1200) and select retailer locations this year. After being handed identical Martin guitars – one with SP LIFESPAN strings and one without – contestants who correctly determine which was equipped with the SP LIFESPAN strings will win a free set along with additional prizes.

• “The Great Martin String Swap” will take place at select retailers this summer and fall, during which anyone bringing in their old strings will be provided with a complimentary set of new Martin SP LIFESPAN strings (while supplies last).

This year’s new string products include:

• SP Lifespan Extra Light Gauge 10-47 Bronze (41MSP6000) and SP Lifespan Extra Light Gauge 10-47 Phosphor Bronze (41MSP7000) – Popular for smaller body guitars and cutaways, a new extra light gauge will be available in phosphor bronze or 80/20 bronze.

• SP Lifespan Extra Light 12 String 10-47 Phosphor Bronze (41MSP7600) – Since both plain and wound strings are treated with Cleartone technology, the new Martin SP Lifespan 12 string set will deliver a balanced sound that is sure to please.

• SP Lifespan Baritone 14-17 Phosphor Bronze (41MSP7700) – With the recent and upcoming launch of several new C. F. Martin baritone guitars, Martin has designed these strings to be comfortable in both the traditional B tuning and modern C tuning, delivering a new standard in tone. Gauging is 14/20/30/42/54/70.

Also at Summer NAMM, attendees will have the opportunity to meet the sixth generation Martin to lead this iconic family business at “Meet Chris Martin Day” – Saturday, July 23 – in Martin Guitar’s booth.