Reviewing the New Martin SC-13E Guitar | Possibly the most important Martin in the last 20 years!

[@carlquance2542]

Just bought one. Went in to buy a 3600$ Taylor, played this 13e and walked out with her. Incredible tone unplugged, played like a dream. I am primarily a finger style player, mostly classical guitars.

[@elmaestroco]

Which Taylor model was it?

[@muriloninja]

I just came across one of these today at my local store...the shape naturally caught my eye..."wtf? Tat's a Martin?"...picked it up and as soon as I started playing it I could not believe how it felt from manufacturer. OMG! I dare say when the sun rises tomorrow I will be $1500 light! I have to have this guitar...I play Taylor 324CE and 12 string models and want a Martin...to me this model gives me what I love in Martin but also nuances of Taylor. Just buy them all everyone....they are all great! lol

[@flfl3969]

I'd like to see this guitar with a solid rosewood option. It's a beautiful guitar, it is clean and simple looking- not overdone. I agree that it is a no brainer to move this design up to their more expensive models. It still has the beautiful on note Martin sound.

[@thruxtonvalrico67]

Own an HD-35. Amazing guitar. Went to buy an AE parlor, tried a bunch of smaller guitars from a bunch of brands and fell in love with this. I’m amazed at how well it sounds. It may not look like a traditional Martin in shape or construction BUT the sound is clearly Martin. Love it.

[@jimjepson8765]

Thank you for that well thought out review and demos. I just got my hands on one yesterday and loved it. After watching your review I am going to pull the trigger and buy it

[@752brickie]

Chris I just want to take the time to thank you for all of your great reviews ! You do an amazing job!!! Thank you again !!!

[@AlamoMusic]

You are very welcome!

[@banba317]

I like it and I think Martin is great for developing it. I'm interested in buying one for the simple reason that I'm 65 and tendonitis is becoming a problem. If this is easier on my hands, then I'll be able to play longer. I recently bought an Acoustasonic Telecaster and it has helped ease the condition, but it's limited to being plugged in to be appreciated. I miss the genuine sound of a real acoustic. I play the Tele with 11's so I'm used to that; can't wait to try out the new Martin.

[@JuniorTennis]

Walked into the local store this week for strings and of course visited the acoustic room. One hundred guitars on the wall. It caught my eye...went straight to the SC-13e. As soon as I started finger picking it I was surprised. I thought, "this sounds right." I haven't been impressed by a guitar off the wall in long time. The guitar had actually come in that morning and I was the first one to play it other than the staff. It never left my hands even though there was a woman who came in after me looking for an upgrade to her current box and I was tempted to show it to her but as I played I just couldn't. The action was perfect, the rich full tone was so moving, the shape was comfortable to hold. I'll never let this one go.

[@jamesmichael3607]

It’s really not anything like that. No resonance and character, been playing for 38 years, doop you. Cool

[@1951Witewater]

I appreciated this in depth and honest review. Most of the others I've seen have only stressed the guitar's strengths. This review shares the pros and cons. I agree with your thoughts on applying this design to their standard series. I am holding out for a 35 with the body shape and neck.

[@winettou9]

I've played one in Waco at the guitar center and i loved it! Beautifull sound, real low action and so easy to play. I like the strings that comes with it, because is so easy on the fingers. It's got my name on it ...putting my money together. I've tried a lot of guitars while i was there{ some were a lot more expensive and lot of brands} but this was by far the best guitar in my opinion.

[@beginningguitar1017]

I’ve had mine since April and I love this guitar! Being an older, yet inexperienced player I like the feel of the neck and those 11’s aren’t bad if you have a touch of arthritis. If you are accustomed to an electric guitar this is an acoustic that will feel comfortable in your hands.

[@kenster865]

I'd still put 10's on it. ;)

[@RevMishka]

Excellent Review! Honest, easily understood and information filled video that does much more than simply showcase the instrument. I don’t think it could have been done any better! The recorded music also fit well within the framework of the who, what, why, and how of this new groundbreaking Martin guitar. Well done!

[@murattaner7384]

That neck joint was invented by Murat Sezen in 1991. He didnt get a patent for it. So , Martin please dont call it an 'İnnovation ' :)))

[@pdxflint]

It's great to see some interesting innovations from the old master. From what I can tell, this guitar sounds fantastic. Looks like I'll have to start saving my pennies. Great job explaining the new construction and giving us some nice examples of how it sounds. Always love your videos. Kudos to Martin. Now, if they could only make one in the sub-$1000 range. Cheers!

[@SAVAG3RABB1T]

Still looking around for which martin will be my first. I think this model is amazing and definitely will be one I check out!

[@HayesTech]

I would like it if they made it out of all solid wood construction. Solid Rosewood back and sides. And I'm not a huge fan of cutaways, but get why they designed it that way. But it's got to have all solid wood construction. I own several guitars that have the laminated sides and back with a solid spruce top and much prefer the sound of all solid wood construction. They would have a winner there, with just the solid wood construction Sorry for the long post.

[@tomeisenmenger7048]

I'm fairly certain those will come - they're bringing this one out as a Road Series model to "test the waters," so to speak.

[@ThisIsPatRyan]

I recently purchased a Martin GPC 16 Style Rosewood. Spruce top with Rosewood back and sides, ebony fret and made in the USA. I was able to get it new for $1500.00 It may be something you are looking for. Check it out.

[@sundialsoft]

When I first saw this guitar I thought the shape was odd though now I like it enough to add it to my shortlist. I'm getting a good acoustic for my 70'th birthday. I like the look of the PRS SE Angelus and the various nice Taylor's seem a good option (though you have to go high up the range to get a guitar that's pretty looking). Once the world hits normal I will get into stores to try them out. I played electric more than acoustic until my ears started to ring so the Martin seems a good option. That pretty tune is very catchy.

[@markntexas8265]

Not sure where you’re located but unless you have a comorbidity go right ahead and get out. Stores are dying they need our business. Just use common sense.

[@CalmedByNature]

Honestly it's a nice concept guitar but doubt this design will last. Some of the innovative design choices may stay but this doesn't look like a new classic.

[@mikewilkinson694]

It may not be a new classic but Martin's Road Series guitars and this concept are totally game changers for those of us who tour across borders.

[@stevecurtis908]

I totally agree that it is refreshing to see and hear something genuinely new and different from the Martin stable, looking forward to trying one for myself. Please can we also all agree (in our comments) that the great acoustic guitar makers all have their own unique strengths. I have played and love Martin, Taylor and Gibson acoustics and they all make exceptional instruments. Your ear and your style are personal and will determine your preference.

[@compass4853]

Outstanding review! Can sense your passion for the instrument in general. And your in depth evaluation is captivating if nothing else! A true learning experience.

[@nelsonvega2919]

It is good that Martin is innovating with their guitars, the sound is reach and even just like a Martin

[@OscarGuitare]

This guitar is a gem. Some folks are very lucky to own such a wonderful guitar.

[@donchristianmusic9353]

People are missing the fact this was designed for giging musicians and feedback control that's why the thin base. It competes with taylor.

[@stevetrauger8037]

i agree, has a little of the martin sound but the light strings and high note access seems less for strumming more for live acoustic lead guitar.

[@jackbandel]

If it was designed for gigging musicians, why did they put that cheap and terrible sounding Sonitone pickup in there?

[@brendonleary]

@@jackbandel That is THE question isn't it?

[@williamschletzer4516]

Best review I've seen on the construction details. He fails to mention that it is set up to be easy for lead playing for people who are primarily electric players but his nice playing shows that that isn't really his thing. I thought it sounded nice and enjoyed the playing. I agree it needs a hard shell case and I'd like to see an all solid wood version.

[@jamesmorrison2063]

I trust Chris, his opinions, demos, and reviews. I just purchased one of these guitars. Thanks man!

[@SAVAG3RABB1T]

I'm glad to see Martin innovating and working r&d for their market. It never hurts to improve and change with time

[@johnnyflinchbaugh436]

What you're playing at 16:30 was my favorite I want to learn that riff now haha

[@TaartjeMetSlagroom]

Did you learn it?

[@juleslemelle9027]

No mechanical noise, everything emanating is pure music; virgin quality high and lows clear as a bell. S shape ! Appreciate added sound.

[@johncrane6673]

Chris, fantastic review! Martin's innovation has produced yet another winner. I, like you, will wait for the "28" version.

[@telecaster643]

I totally agree that I wish they had introduced a standard USA model also. I almost bought this guitar when it was first offered for preorder a while back, but decided I really did not want to go with such a new and innovative design from Martin that was not made in USA and solid wood. It does seem a little odd, frankly, to come out with such a new design and idea on a lower-end , non-USA model .....or at least ONLY on a lower end model. So I really do hope they come out with the design in USA, solid wood standard series. I would have already ordered this one if that were the case.

[@simplygreg17ify]

I could of listened to that playing for hours brother. Great job

[@martintaylorrickenbacker2797]

That would be, "I could have"... right? BTW, very interesting design concepts on this guitar.

[@drew4872]

Picked up the SC10e 02 solid sapele (no veneer on the 02). On so many levels I couldn't be happier. My tech concurs it's a great design. The warm bottom end is quite surprising and the even spread on mids and top are magic! The ease of play makes this guitar the most exciting purchase yet. New neck design will turn some purists off without having played it. Try for yourself.

[@1olddoggie]

I applaud the attempt for them to innovate. The layered Koa looks great but the tone just doesn't have sufficient bass. A good review Chris.

[@TeleCathster]

Rick Costa I agree the bass is lacking! Interesting design.

[@ralex3697]

I owned this guitar and returned it, not very comfortable to play

[@Dr_JimY]

Totally agree with the "NEED" for Martin to bring this acoustic design to their Standard series SC-28E! I picked up an SC-13e yesterday and it's just beautiful! Would like to see a video "plugged in" so we can see what you think of it's pickup system, and I would love to get a hardshell case for my new SC-13! Thanks, ~J

[@jean-pierresabourin3000]

Another addition to my wishlist!

[@gfd165]

Love that Martin is making guitars for the future not just us old relics who think old guitars are best (they are) and we have to let them age to get the best sound.(you do). Even a Les Paul comes in traditional and modern now. I like the sound and am going to try it at store . Looking forward to it

[@capnstevoanythinggoes]

I will let you know later how I feel about the guitar. I just ordered one yesterday. I have been playing since the "summer of '69" , like the song says. I have a 2018/2019 Gibson Les Paul Custom Standard, a Takamine P3DC12 P3D Pro 12-str Dread A/E Cut, Nat, and a Victor, (made in Spain), 6 string classical/flamenco guitar. I was shopping for more of the standard short scale flat top Martin guitar at the start, and will pursue that thought on my next purchase. I was drawn to the new features for ease of playability of electric guitars. I owned a Fender Statocaster in the mid 80's with double humbuckers new stock, (not the traditional strat), string lockdowns, and fine tuners, that had the most thin/narrow neck, lowest, and fastest action with an Ernie Ball Extra Slinky 8's string set. I really enjoyed the playability and ease of playing more technical approaches with more and faster finger work. It made it easier for me to pick faster. I also dropped down to 9's on my '91 Gibson Les Paul Studio and got more playing ease and increased pinch harmonics with negligible loss of punch and drive. I have bought 9's for my new Les Paul, but have not dropped down from 10's as of yet. Point being, (after ranting on), is I personally choose and like playability ease, which is why I leaned into this choice. I also agree with you on Martin building a standard version in America, the SC-28, as I would buy one. After I receive my new Martin and play her a bit, I will give my feedback in a later comment. I am having it PLEK'ed so I'll probably get her in about a week and a half. I plan to add it to my collection for future stage play.

[@sboy1955]

I’ve tried to like 11s on my D18. However 12s are the best balance for tone and playability (for me). I look forward to playing one though, the neck, cutaway, and body shape look like great ideas.

[@CricksWhiteNoise]

I've played for 55 years and owned many guitars but only a couple of Martins. I just never bonded with their ultra-traditional offerings and sound. I'm pleased to see Martin branch out and take a chance with some bold innovations. This is the first Martin in a very long time that might join my herd. I hope it's a success and Martin eventually offers solid tonewood versions.

[@upperleftcoastchelseafan7718]

Laminated KOA, looks great but, noooh. My D-16E (Solid Rosewood Back & Sides) sounds like the real deal and seeings how they're selling new now for $1699 ($1649 for solid Mahogany) I'm not sure why folks wouldn't spend a few hundred dollars more and get a guitar that actually sounds like a Martin. Mine didn't come with a case but neither does this SC-13E so it's kind of hard to see if this guitar will be a success in the top-heavy mid-price market. My son just got a Takamine EF360S-TT for $1649 new and and if I didn't already have my D-16E, I would snap one up because that thing may be the best sounding guitar at that price I've heard and it plays like a dream (and it came with a case). Anyway good luck, dig your videos.

[@tomeisenmenger7048]

But the SC-16E DOES come with a case... FWIW, this guitar sounds just fine and probably would sound a bit beefier if it wore 12s like the man said...

[@StymyParsley]

I got the same guitar about a half a year ago and I think it’s probably the best value Martin rn. I know the D15 is really good but for anything under the D18, I think the D16e Rosewood model is the best Martin you can buy.

[@baileypawsplays1047]

I like the way it sounds, but the asymmetrical look is a little weird imho something to get use to. At that price it should have solid wood all the way around vs koa veneer sides/back..she sure is pretty though. I love the polish on it.

[@falcongunner33]

Great to see Martin innovating and trying to make a musician's tool as opposed to an art piece. I really don't like the sound out of this one though, very muted to my ear. Obviously this just isn't one made for my use case.

[@georgeservian9383]

Went to my local (NC) music store to get a close look at all wood acoustic guitars, hoping to upgrade from my Yamaha laminate. Tried several from Taylor and Eastman, not even looking for a Martin as I thought they would be out of my price range. I tried the SC-13E (at top of my budget) and it felt and played better than any of the others I had tried. And to my ear sounded just as good. The Koa veneer back and sides are gorgeous. I know solid wood back and sides will sound better, but for my ear and budget the SC-13 is hitting all the right notes. Soon as I can save up a few more $$ I'll be back to take a final look and likely take her home w/me. 🙂

[@cidnewman8032]

Sounds like hyperbole, but I agree. It's their first major design innovation in years, and they hit it out of the park. I bought one as my 'beater', and it's become one of my main acoustics.

[@michaelwieck9410]

I hope Martin makes this guitar in their core lineup in the future!

[@AlamoMusic]

Maybe they will! Fingers crossed!

[@gregmirr]

Great review although you failed to say if it will fit in a standard case .

[@brocluno01]

From that short run, sounds like a good blues machine :D

[@JohnStalzer]

I love Martin’s it’s all I play. I love your playing. I’m going to buy one of these and of course I can’t wait until they come out with a 28 in this style.

[@stonehenge313]

I love the innovation - great job! and yes, lets see a solid back and sides (east indian rosewood )

[@tigermagician6726]

agree completely with built 28 in hard shell case ... given its asymmetrical design, had too many gig bagged guitars damaged in transit. ! Thanks for great video and info.

[@Bradnick930]

Outstanding in depth review. Lots of cool innovations. Right after you finished the demo, I went back to your GPC 16E review from last October. (I love that you play the same selections with the same setup.) For my ears, the GPC 16E wins by a mile. Maybe it's the rosewood. Maybe it's the strings as you mentioned. But with the price difference so small...

[@gtr1952]

Great job Martin!! I re-adjust my acoustics to use 10-48, this is perfect! Taylor also uses a shim system, about time Martin! If I never have to do another neck reset it will be too soon!! LOL I'll take the first 'burst' plz! JMHO's 8) --gary

[@scottintexas]

Awesome version of Amazing Grace! Great channel, thanks!

[@anthonyroach7974]

Beautiful sound and a modern take on a Martin .New generation of players that would love that guitar..great for all styles of music ..

[@C_L_Thomas]

I might consider it if it were priced commensurate with the rest of the road series but not when I can get an all solid wood made in USA Martin for the same price.

[@ronjarrah9516]

I agree I would like to see this in an upgraded model. Doesn't have to be a Standard Series for me, but at least a 16 series with all solid wood construction and upgraded Fishman electronics

[@raymondhassan9688]

you play very well. I played this same guitar recently. This guitar can be played like an electric. Would have loved to see some extreme string pulls. This guitar can handle it!

[@RickFoxx777]

I like the look and the sound of it coming across my computer. However, I have been playing guitar for over 40 years and in last 20 years I have not played a single Martin (and I have played a lot of them) in the under 2k range that I thought looked, sounded or felt worth buying. I don't mean to offend, it just seems like every time I pick up one of these cheaper models (hoping for that beautiful Martin sound) I am always disappointed. The 2k and under guitars all seem to struggle to get any decent tone out of them. I preface that to say... I am not a Martin hater...I owned a GPCPA-1 for many years (recently sold it) and am currently saving to get another rather pricey one now. I love the looks and sound of the EC 000-28, D-41, 000-42, OMJM, HD-28 and last but not least the OM-28. I guess what I am saying is that it would be fantastic if (in person) this guitar sounded remotely decent, and if it did I would buy it right then and their. However, I have my doubts that it will sound good to my ears. Anyway, lately it is extremely hard to find and play any of these newer guitars in any of the stores here in Washington i.e. Tacoma, Olympia, Seattle, Tukwila or Redmond. Honestly, I really hope these guitars are great and that Martin can once again reclaim their rightful place on the throne by putting out a series of decent looking and playing low cost guitars. I say this because, over the last year or so many of the recently released UNBRANDED acoustic and electric guitars coming out of China are better built, better looking, better sounding, much cheaper and even have a better feel to them than many of the famous name brand counterparts. I,m hoping this will cause my favorite brands to get it together and start putting out great musical gear and not price themselves out of existence. One can hope. Peace

[@davidpomella6786]

I have a Martin HD28VS (20+Years old now) and it is in mint condition. With age the tone has improved and it is the best acoustic guitar I have ever owned. Leave it to Martin Design and Engineering to produce this new style of guitar. When I first saw it on a Winter NAAM presenter I really didnt understand how it works but now I do thanks to your excellent presentation

[@toddneary]

Great review. Some interesting innovations happening here. What I'm not a fan of is the big "boxy" bass response. Is it different in the room, or is what the mic is capturing accurate?

[@JohnAnderson-ex2qg]

Nice job Chris. I agree, an 18 or 28 version would get my attention.

[@MiketheNerdRanger]

I just found out about this guitar today and I've people talking about its electric guitar like playability. I've played acoustics and electrics and I can attest that the latter is *much* easier on the fingers. Now I'm new to martin guitars and I haven't encountered the die-hard, purist, whatever, but I'm really interested because while I love the sound of acoustics, I'm sick of having to clamp the strings on my acoustic like a vice.

[@Ripperx121]

4 years later I got the 10e, I am not cheap I just like the matte style. Ok I am cheap too! Honestly I tend to scratch my acoustic's, This guitar is amazing. In fact I don't see getting another acoustic ever. So comfortable you forget it is an acoustic play wise. Try one you will be amazed.

[@JCFNor]

thanks for the review. Sounds good. Need to hear it live, and feel it, but it'll be a while before it gets to Norway...

[@marcscordato4385]

Yes A solid wood version would be great even a 15,16, or 17 series would be great but a 28 would be awesome .

[@jimdoner3443]

The notes sound like their falling out of the guitar onto the floor, not good on note to note separation , fast note decay/sustain. Might need to break that sound board in. The guitar didnt sound bad, but it didn't sound great either. Just have to try one in store. Great playing again Chris thank you.

[@ralex3697]

It is not very good, I returned mine. Very lifeless I purchased a Boucher, in a completely different league

[@jimdoner3443]

@@ralex3697 very nice congradulations. I've not had my hands on one yet but I hear that they are absolutely awesome and they sound great over youtube.

[@rodgereyre6640]

Didn’t realize the latest innovation from Taylor was building guitars for Martin. Kidding of course. I could see a lot of younger players giving it a shot and liking what it offers.

[@daveprinn3148]

Like most who subscribe to this page, I am a guitar nut. I am fortunate to have a stable of fine guitars including a couple of Martins, a Gibson and a Larrivee. And.... like many guitar nuts, I still find the need to look for the NEXT great guitar. To this end, I surf a variety of channels similar to this one. Until now, I find most of them entertaining and somewhat informative. Chris, your approach to presenting guitars is well informed and researched. I appreciate the explanations behind why rosewood is such a sought after tone wood, and your honest approach to what you really like (and maybe dont like) about the guitar you are presenting. I'm a long way from Texas (BC Canada) but I will make a point of visiting your shop should I ever find myself in your part of the Nation. Thank you for what you bring to the web.

[@paulstabin6233]

For the same money the Taylor koa 224 kce has to be cross shopped. Especially as the Taylor sounds warmer and no doubt plays better. I have owned and loved Martin, Guild and Gibson. But trick neck adjustments aside, it just does not sound as good as the 224 I tried recently. Would make for a good comparison video.

[@msinger5340]

Your reviews are just fantastic as well as your playing. I have owned various Martins since 1970 as well as others along the way. This is quite a departure for them as you say but I trust them as their history demands. I am now thinking about one of these because of your review. Keep up the great work Chris!

[@jduggan118]

Really thorough and helpful review! Really a good step forward for the middle of the Martin line. The D-16 seems to be its biggest competitor. The voicing is different than the traditional sound but nice. A solid wood version would be really tempting. I've been considering other cutaways like Guild OM-140/150, Taylor 312, and 314, Rainsong CM. This definitely would be on the must-see list. May add it even with the HPL.

[@cchavez248]

That body shape kinda reminds me of a Lowden! Looking forward to hearing one of these!

[@derekhenderson1730]

Bravo Martin, yet another innovation that is destined to be a classic. . .Yeah ! and why not a D28 or D18 version.

[@StephanieHughesDesign]

So cool. Martin should hire you as a Consultant for clearly explaining their ever so different and confusing new model designs and numbering system. Thanks. I prefer the Road Series full wood with the Dread cutaway acosutic electric or the the 000 non cutaway acoustic electric. Chris, you totally rock!

[@sp129]

Hi Chris, have you had the opportunity to ask Martin whether they plan on making an SC18/28E?

[@thomashalley7258]

I tried a handful of different martins and picked on of these out. The only thing that wasnt there was either a hd28 or hd35 to compare it to.

[@luisguerra8720]

You are the only reason I’d trek to Alamo. Love your informative videos. Ask for a raise. You deserve it.

[@cooloutac]

I've watched a lot of your videos and I'm a huge Martin dread fan. But this is the best sounding guitar you've ever played on your Channel. I feel like I'm in the Twilight Zone because of the looks of this thing I never would have guessed it. Seriously is this real? You really understating the incredible sound this has incredible. Not lacking in lows not lacking in highs I don't know how the volume is who the hell cares at this point. I'm a huge x-series and d18 fan cuz I always feel most acoustic guitars sound tnny lacking bass. This thing isn't lacking anything (maybe volume?) Wow. You guys can keep your solid wood and usa-made I want one of these bad!

[@emmawebber9438]

Hi Chris, I hope you and your family are keeping well. Thanks for a very informative video, I am looking forward to trying one of these when the music retailers are allowed to reopen. Take good care, and best wishes from England.

[@5igns]

That is fantastic there's way too little innovation in the guitar industry to begin with, let alone acoustic guitars. The constant resistance against any sort of change to "classics" is eerily reminiscent of the opposition to the introduction of electrical guitars and frankly I find it odd that in a field where almost all big players got famous for breaking the norms there is so much obnoxious purism. It's good to see those changes even if they aren’t perfect, if there was a version around the 1000 mark, I'd definitely be checking it out. 1900 is a little bit too steep for my skill level, though.

[@MarianoPerez]

Do they have a full depth version? Cool stage guitar, probably competes with the Yamaha APX and Takamine thin line models.

[@sandbilly100]

We have one and love everything about it, but not at first. the piezo pickup (usually hate them) sounds awful and it comes with phosphor bronze also awful changed them out for Martin Monels (nickel copper alloy) and the piezo quack was gone. in the past we just bought without a pickup and put in a fishman/baggs/or sunrise soundhole. apparently this pickup is affected by the string type. Great video very well done.

[@lebry19]

Hello! do you think you can deliver in Japan if I like to order!?

[@MrEst1953]

A great manufacturer like Martin guitars should never stand still .. That SC 15 sounds and looks beautiful I would like to wish Martin every success

[@sarahcron7128]

Great review - are you playing the guitar with the factory string - 11's you noted? Or dd you swap to the 12's? Sounds nice and full to me - just wondering about having to adjust the neck if i want to switch to 12's sounds kind of like a hassle - no service center near me.

[@snuffyballparks6501]

Sounds terrific. Martin moves forward with innovation. My choice, along with my youngest son, was to go back in time. He has a 2001 D-18 GE & I have a 2008 D-28 Marquis. We are set.

[@brendonleary]

A father & son team that knows what the truth is. Two fine guitars from Martin USA, that sound fantastic, and whose complexities in tone will mature like the finest of wines. Great choices. Just make sure you play them, and play them everywhere, whenever you get the chance. Don't wrap them in cotton wool. The personality of these fine instruments develops from being played, not sitting in a case or hung on a wall. I have a 1981 D-35 and a 2014 000-15. I do not own a beater guitar. If I go to the park, or sit around a campfire, either guitar comes with me. Yeah, they get knocked and bumped occasionally, sometimes smell a little smokey, but they are tough instruments and every knock gives more personality. The knocks and marks are their tattoos of a life well lived. I do not treat them with disdain though, they are still looked after, but I just refuse to treat them like a baby that cannot be played in certain places. I bought them to play. Not sit in a sarcophagus like an Egyptian Pharoah. It is as simple as that. When people go bonkers over antique and vintage instruments, it is always the ones that have had a proper life that people love the most. Sure, a spotless 80 year old instruments is a thing of wonder and beauty, but a well played instrument with the tattoos of experienced marked over them are always the instruments people are in awe of. They are the ones with stories to tell. So play those guitars. Give them stories to tell others when you are long gone.

[@snuffyballparks6501]

@@brendonleary ... Great advice. We both play nearly every day... sadly, my son lives 7 hours away.

[@jazz_addict7079]

Too bad this isn't an all-solid wood guitar but I guess it's aimed at players who'll amplify it. I'd love to have one of these that prioritizes acoustic tone-- maybe in the future, Martin will get around to building such an instrument.

[@dannyolson8348]

This looks like a great new design. Will be great with solid rosewood.

[@richiebohr5421]

I didn't see any demo with it plugged in. Nice acoustic demo but I see this as a live gigging acoustic guitar. Very few people will be micing up this guitar in a venue.

[@SteveAndJohnnieShow]

GREAT review! Thanks for the detailed explanation. Very few Martin guitars trip my trigger, but this one I can't wait to get my hands on and see what my fingers think.

[@Ricksta19811]

It sounds somewhere between a classic solid wood Martin and a nice Taylor guitar ie. 714c. It has brightness and clarity like the Taylor but some of the woody richness of a vintage Martin

[@tonyperri4435]

Chris first of all I would like to thank you for all the great info you give us.I’m kind of hesitant on buying MARTIN made in Mexico, maybe I’m a fool. Can you give a review on your feelings on the future of Martin guitar’s from Mexico. To me it just seems like that’s their cheaper version of guitar. But they still wear the MARTIN name, what is their value going to be like in the future?

[@tvv911]

Chris, love your review on this Martin.

[@danbgt]

I’m a totally amateur player and haven’t been playing all that long. I’m an older guy that started playing for my own entertainment and satisfaction. I have a couple of “nice” guitars and a few inexpensive ones. Love playing them all so I am certainly not a guitar snob nor brand dedicated. But it has been my experience that Martin builds a certain type of guitar and Taylor builds another certain type of guitar. I like this guitar. Is this Martin playing catch up with Taylor? Or maybe trying to leapfrog Taylor?

[@kaetce]

The best guitar I’ve played. Been gigging with it for 3 years now

[@Propelled]

The definition of innovation means the introduction of something new, not just a tweak of an idea that a competitor has been more successful at for decades. Neat to see them working on this, competition raises the bar to all our benefit.

[@riffrobin474]

It's exciting to see Martin moving into the 21st century (LONG overdue). Today's acoustic players are so much more progressive than the old strummers of the past and Martin has not kept pace. Brands like Maton and Cole/Clark figured out how to make a much more 'high performance' guitar for the likes of Tommy Emmanuel, Doyle Dykes and others, who generally do not play rosewood guitars. If you pick up a Maton or other maple guitar, you wont hear much acoustically..but plug it in and you own the world. When Martin comes up with a HP pickup system, ill be in line for this axe. Great design and love the upper access! But you are correct, this is not for bluegrass strummers or people who are mainly singers....though i think it would work for them also. The traditions are not holding up for the modern players so thank you Martin for moving forward! I look forward to the evolution of this instrument!

[@KASA852]

Just got this. It's perfect. I'm not super picky with sound so I think it sounds great. I sold my Baby Taylor (electric acoustic) and upgraded to this. I wanted somethin more live-show friendly. Overall, this new Martin guitar is really cool.

[@w.wrightjackson8317]

I've owned several Martins never been UNhappy with any of them. Unfortunately I've had to sell and rebuy over the years, been playing for 53 years and also unfortunately don't play as well as the time doing so would suggest. I am going to make this my next purchase. Was going to get an old Fender Tweed amp but have enough amps so this new innovative Martin has edged out the amp. thanks again for the great video and no I won't be getting from Alamo for you will not give me credit as i mentioned on your old Taylor vs. new 914 Taylor and the other place will. God bless you and yours

[@charlesbolton8471]

W.Wright Jackson You can’t go wrong with any Tweed Fender amp from the 50s/early 60s. I’d buy the amp it will hold it value better should you need to sell it in the future, but I am amp obsessed so I’m just saying what I would do. Guitars or amps buy whatever you like and enjoy it for as long as you can,

[@Pharesm]

firstly, nice intro to this new guitar! second, I think Martin should innovate all they can! That said, I don't find their particular version of an "S" shape aesthetically pleasing. I think others have done a better job of making "lopsided" guitars that look great. Its fairly subtle, possibly a little too subtle - they haven't given the asymmetric shape any visual anchor, that doesn't leave you with this vague shape, where you look for 3 seconds and think: "did this partially melt in the heat some place?" Beyond that, the cover(s) for the screw should not stick out from the bottom of the guitar, it should be FLUSH! Having a knobby thing protruding is just going to be annoying and it looks too much like some home-built diy project, even though its a really ingenious contraption... I'll call it version 1.0 - maybe at version 3.1, I'll break out my wallet ^^

[@dtempest588]

Builder I agree a little on looks. Sure some look better with the cut-away. But at the same time; they didn’t put form and function in it ether.