Frequently Asked Questions

What’s tension?

Tension is idiomatic to classical guitar strings, but it can be used interchangeably with the more common “gauge” when used to describe the way a string feels and performs. Essentially, low tension strings correspond to light gauge strings and high or hard tension strings correspond to heavy gauge strings.

What’s a “Classic” string?

Augustine Classic are the original nylon treble strings developed by Albert Augustine and Andrés Segovia. Modern extrusion techniques now allow for them to be produced with perfect intonation.

What are “Imperial” and “Regal” strings?

Imperial and Regal trebles represent the evolution of Albert Augustine’s original nylon string. Comprised or premium high density nylon, these strings boast power and clarity that draws more from the guitar to bring definition and volume to each player’s unique voice.

What is the difference between “Imperial” and “Regal?”

Both Regal and Imperial trebles are premium nylon. Imperial trebles are high tension, and Regals have a slightly larger diameter that makes their tension even higher.

What are the basses made of?

Augustine basses are comprised of a nylon fiber core or “yarn” that is wound in silver-plated copper wire.

What is the difference between Red, Blue, Black, and Gold basses? Are the strings dyed those colors? Red, Blue, Black, and Gold refer to the four different types of Augustine bass strings. Each is unique for its tension and the percentage of silver in its wrap:

• Black basses are low tension strings with a mellow tone. The favorite of many beginners.
• Red basses are medium tension strings for players who desire more projection from a light touch.
• Blue basses are high tension and feature the highest percentage of silver content, giving them the most projection and boldest sound of any Augustine bass.
• Gold basses are plated in brass rather than silver and wound to low/medium tension. Their aggressive timbre is often preferred by flamenco players.

Augustine bass strings are not dyed =]

What is a “carbon” string?

Polyvinylidine fluoride (PVFD), also known as fluorocarbon, is a synthetic material that, like nylon, has been developed for use as a guitar string. Carbon treble strings for guitar have a unique “feel” due to their rigidity and high density, factors that contribute to enhanced volume and bright tonal quality. These aspects make them the preference for many pro concertizing guitarists or players who participate in competitions where maximizing projection is essential.

What is a “Paragon” string?

Paragon trebles are Augustine’s very own carbon strings. They offer all of the tonal benefits of carbon with an organic warmth that distinguishes them from competing carbon strings.

What is the difference between a “Regal Red” set compared to a “Classic Red” set or a “Paragon Red” set?

“Classic,” “Imperial,” “Regal,” and “Paragon,” refer to treble strings. The colors listed in the sets refer to the bass strings. Thus “Classic Red” is Classic trebles matched with Red (medium tension) basses, “Imperial Red” is Imperial trebles matched with Red basses, “Paragon Red” is Paragon carbon trebles matched with Red basses. Same goes for “Regal Blue,” “Classic Gold,” and so on and so forth.

Are Augustine Spectra and Acoustic OEM strings?

Like all of the company’s offerings, Spectra and Acoustic strings are made in Albert Augustine Ltd.’s facility in New York, U.S.A.