Augustine strings, officially known as Albert Augustine Ltd., made history. In 1947, Albert Augustine, along with Andrés Segovia, developed the first nylon guitar strings. This marked the definitive disappearance of gut strings from classical guitars. To this day, Augustine strings form the basis of what we consider the standard.
Why Andrés Segovia chose Augustine
Segovia sought strings that were more stable than gut, but retained their musical character.
- Greater vocal stability.
- Less sensitive to moisture and temperature.
- Consistent sound from set to set.
The collaboration with Segovia laid the foundation for all modern nylon strings. Therefore, Augustine is often cited as the inventor of the nylon string.
The Secret of Colors: Augustine Black, Red, and Blue Explained.
Augustine uses a unique color system. The color determines the tension and character of the bass strings.
- Black. Standard tension. Warm and smooth playing feel.
- Red. Medium tension. More projection and balance.
- Blue. High tension. Maximum volume and directness.
- Gold. Medium tension with gold-colored winding for a rounder tone.
Many guitarists specifically search for Augustine Black or Augustine Blue to precisely choose their tension.
Imperial vs. Regal: Which treble strings are right for your guitar?
In addition to the color of the bass strings, you also choose the type of treble string.
- Classic trebles. The original Segovia formula with plenty of character.
- Imperial trebles. Premium nylon with very precise diameter.
- Regal trebles. Higher tension for a brilliant, singing tone.
Imperial is often chosen for its intonation and balance. Regal is popular with concert players seeking maximum clarity.
Augustine Paragon. Fluorocarbon for the modern guitarist.
Paragon is Augustine's modern line.
- Fluorocarbon treble strings.
- Thinner at the same tension.
- Clear, direct and very responsive.
This series is often chosen by guitarists who want more definition in the high frequencies.
Mix and match. The power of Augustine combinations.
A big advantage of Augustine is that you can combine sets.
- Blue basses with Imperial trebles.
- Red bass with Regal trebles.
- Gold basses with Classic trebles.
This allows you to fine-tune the tension and tone precisely to your guitar and playing style. That's why combinations like Augustine Imperial Blue are often searched for.
How do you choose the right tension for your instrument?
The correct tension depends on your guitar and playing feel.
- Older or lighter guitars. Black or red.
- Modern concert guitars. Red or Blue.
- Looking for comfort? Lower tension.
- Find your projection. Higher tension.
| Colour |
Tension bass |
Sound character |
Best for |
| Black |
Standard |
Warm and sweet |
Beginners and older guitars |
| Red |
Medium |
Balanced |
Study and general use |
| Blue |
High |
Loud and direct |
Concerts and modern guitars |
| Gold |
Medium |
Warm and deep |
Round classical tone |
If you're looking for classical guitar strings with history, musicality, and proven quality, you'll find Augustine. Not just a brand, but the birthplace of the modern classical guitar.
