Hi Fingers,

I think you are giving Marquis' more credit and more use than they deserve. I find that Martin Bronze lights, my string of choice for 25 years, to be the equal to Marquis in every level but price. Maybe not as bright initially but they stayed brighter longer. I did prefer Darco New Yorkers to the Bronze Lights but they are no longer available to me in my area.

Also Martins are bass heavy guitars and will sound a little muddy towards the end of a strings life.

Don