
( Brand: Martin ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: D-18V ), ( Model: VINTAGE D-18V ), ( Part Type: Acoustic Guitar ), ( Model Year: 2011 ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States ), ( Body Type: Solid ), ( Body Material: Mahogany ), ( Dexterity: Right-handed ), ( String Configuration: 6 String ), ( Series: Vintage ), ( Body Color: Natural ), ( Era: 1971 )
The Martin D-18V Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a stunning fusion of traditional Martin craftsmanship and modern technology. This guitar offers the classic sound and feel of a D-18 with the added convenience of a built-in pickup system.
The body of the D-18V is crafted from high-quality materials. It features a solid Sitka spruce top with a solid East Indian rosewood back and sides. The back and sides are adorned with the famous "galaxies" or "snowflake" herringbone rosette and multiple binding accents. The solid East Indian rosewood neck provides excellent stability and tuning retention. The 14-fret neck is topped with a richlite fingerboard and features a traditional 25.4-inch scale length and a 1-11/16-inch nut width. The gold open-gear tuning machines provide smooth and accurate tuning.
Under the hood, the D-18V is equipped with the Fishman Matrix Infinity Blend decisively designed to deliver a soundboard image with the look and feel of an all-acoustic guitar. This revolutionary pickup system offers numerous tone and gain controls, as well as an adjustable internal microphone, allowing for precise trouble-free acoustic tone and feedback elimination. The easy-to-use, onboard volume and tone controls are located on the lower bout of the guitar, along with a 9-volt battery compartment.
Whether you're planning to hit the stage or just practicing at home, the Martin D-18V Acoustic-Electric Guitar is the ideal choice for those seeking the perfect blend of classic Martin tone and modern technology. Its high-quality materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and innovative electronics cater to the needs of both professional and amateur musicians, making it an essential addition to any guitar collection.
The Martin D-18V is a popular choice among musicians due to its blend of classic acoustic tone and modern electronics. Here's a balanced review with the key pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Pros:1. Iconic Martin Tone: As with most Martin acoustic guitars, the D-18V produces a rich, powerful, and balanced tone that is well-loved by musicians and audiences alike. The solid Sitka Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides contribute to the guitar's current and projecting sound.
2. Versatile: With the built-in Shadow Electronics, the D-18V can be used for both acoustic and amplified performances. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for players who need to switch between settings easily, such as those who use the guitar for both practices and gigs.
3. Comfort and Playability: The guitar features a modified low oval neck shape and a 25.4-inch scale length, which provide great comfort and ease of playing for most players. This combination results in an overall pleasant experience, reducing the strain on the hand muscles over long practice sessions or performances.
4. Durable: Martin's reputation for quality craftsmanship is reflected in the D-18V's robust build. The solid wood construction not only maintains the classic Martin sound but also ensures the guitar can withstand the tests of time making it a wise investment for musicians seeking a long-lasting instrument.
Cons:1. Price: Compared to some other acoustic-electric options in the market, the Martin D-18V is relatively expensive. The label of being a Martin guitar plays a significant role in its high price tag.
2. Heavier than some competitors: Given its solid wood construction and larger body size, the Martin D-18V is slightly heavier than some alternative acoustic-electric models. This can make it less appealing for some players, especially those who favor a lighter and more portable instrument.
3. Requires regular maintenance: The solid wood construction of the D-18V necessitates regular maintenance to keep the instrument in optimal condition. Factors like temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure can affect the guitar's sound and longevity, making it crucial to follow the recommended care guidelines.
Conclusion:The Martin D-18V offers a captivating blend of traditional Martin tone, enhanced versatility, and playability. Its modern electronics cater to the needs of contemporary musicians while its iconic acoustic sound will surely be cherished by purists. Nevertheless, the high price and added weight are factors potential buyers should consider before making a decision.
Recommendation:If you value the classic Martin tone, require the versatility of an acoustic-electric setup, and are ready to invest in a high-quality instrument, the Martin D-18V could be an excellent choice for you. However, if the price range is beyond your budget or if you prefer a lighter instrument, exploring alternative options may be worth considering. Ultimately, it is essential to carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks to make the most informed decision that fits your musical journey.
There are a couple of very slight scratches on the back side from normal play and use. The original Martin hard shell case is included. I am the original owner.
This guitar has been well played and well cred for. This is a 2011 Martin18v vintage series guitar.
It is also equipped with the fisherman matrix pickup with volume and tone control for electric play that sounds fantastic. It has that beautiful warm sound that Martin is famous for.