Augustine

Augustine strings – part of classical guitar history

Augustine is closely associated with the development of the modern nylon string. In the 1940s, Albert Augustine worked with Spanish guitarist Andrés Segovia to establish nylon as a reliable alternative to the gut strings commonly used on classical guitars at the time. Augustine nylon strings were introduced to the market in 1947. The connection with Segovia and later with other renowned classical guitarists made the brand an established part of classical guitar history. Augustine continues to manufacture its strings at its own factory in New York, USA.

Classic, Imperial, Regal and Paragon compared

With Augustine, the series name primarily refers to the type of treble strings. The Classic series stays particularly close to the traditional Augustine concept: normal-tension nylon trebles provide a familiar playing feel and a warm, classic nylon character. For players looking for the traditional Augustine sound or a comfortable introduction to the range, this is a natural starting point.

Imperial and Regal develop this concept further with premium nylon treble strings. Imperial focuses on clarity, definition and projection. Regal also uses premium nylon and, with its precise, brilliant character and higher tension, is particularly suited to players who prefer a clear response and powerful projection. Paragon takes a different approach: its treble strings are made from fluorocarbon. This material has a higher density than nylon and enables a bright, direct response and strong projection, while Augustine aims to retain an organic tonal character.

What do Black, Red, Blue and Gold mean at Augustine?

One distinctive feature of Augustine is the combination of series names and colours. Classic, Imperial, Regal and Paragon describe the respective treble strings, while Black, Red, Blue and Gold characterise the bass strings. This makes it possible to combine the treble type and bass tension more specifically. Black represents low tension and a softer character, Red medium tension, and Blue high tension with greater projection. Gold occupies a special position: these bass strings are wound with brass-plated copper and have a brighter, more assertive sound, which can also make them interesting for flamenco.

A set such as Regal Red therefore combines Regal treble strings with medium-tension Red basses. Paragon Blue, by contrast, combines fluorocarbon trebles with high-tension Blue basses. This system helps players choose Augustine strings based not only on a single tension rating, but also on treble material, playing feel and bass character.

Which Augustine strings suit your classical guitar?

When choosing strings, the desired playing feel, tone and projection all matter. Lower or medium bass tension can be comfortable if you prefer less resistance under the fingers. Higher-tension options provide a firmer playing feel and can deliver greater projection. The choice between traditional nylon, the more modern Imperial and Regal trebles, and Paragon fluorocarbon also changes the character of the upper strings. If you would like to compare further options, Kirstein also offers other classical guitar strings and a broader selection of strings for different instruments.

Buy Augustine at Kirstein

Augustine is particularly suitable for classical guitarists looking for a traditional brand with clearly differentiated tension and tonal options. The combination of different treble series and colour-coded bass variants makes it easier to choose between a softer playing feel, balanced tension and stronger projection. If you have questions about the right string tension or choosing strings for your classical guitar, Kirstein can assist you with expert advice.