• Probably the only acoustic I'll ever need

  
  As reviewed by Mark Vogel on 11/26/2010

  I can't imagine ever playing a guitar that provides this much pleasure. I've been playing off and on (mostly off!) for 40 years -- just for myself and for my family. When I first tried this Eric Clapton Martin, the quality of my playing improved instantly. When you play a fine instrument such as this, you'll find the inner drive to practice more. Every note is crisp and clear, with rich lower tones and sparkling upper tones. The problems I experienced with my other two acoustics -- buzzing, missed fingering, hollow tones -- have all disappeared. Whether strumming or finger-picking, this guitar is perfectly suited to the task. The fit and finish is remarkable, and the rich deep patina of the wood is very pleasing. This was a big investment for us -- I never imagined I'd spend this much for a guitar! But I am so glad I did, and I don't regret a single penny. The hard case is a work of art in itself. The folks at the Guitar Center in Lancaster PA were absolutely fantastic. The model they had on display didn't quite suit them. The pick guard seemed to be pulling up a bit, so they called around to other stores and had this shipped in ASAP. Don't hesitate for a moment on this one.

  8 of 8 people found this review helpful.
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• The one guitar I would never give up

  
  As reviewed by Paul Rich on 1/6/2011

  After playing guitar for over 25 years it was time for an instrument like this. During the past couple of years I'd increased my playing time and found that I was enjoying it more and wanting to push myself. I've found that instruments that are better than the player create inspiration for practicing and pushing oneself, and from the first minute that I had this guitar in my hands and began playing, I fell in love. I had never experienced the sense of perfection in weight, feel, responsiveness, playability, and acoustics that this guitar provides. Some have commented about the inlay of Eric Clapton's name on the fretboard. I, too, could do without this. However, I don't mind it there and perhaps in some way it is another incentive to want to improve. I bought the Sunburst model a little over a year ago and I play it several times a week at a minimum. The finish on the guitar is wonderful, though if you don't like a glossy neck then this is probably not the instrument for you. The tuners are precise and I have to tune this guitar less than any of the seven or eight others that I've owned. It is the playability that is the most striking. Bar chords are no problem, and the strings play with a looser feel than any other acoustic I've played so bends are easier. The clincher for me was that I can play this guitar for hours and my fingers don't bleed. Other steel string acoustics, because of their tighter string action, just wear out my fingers after an hour or two of playing in a day. This guitar is really easy on the body - both for the string feel as well as the body size and weight. While it gives up a little volume relative to the dreadnaughts, it still has more volume than most cheaper guitars and I actually like having something that doesn't have a huge boom to it because I don't play with others and need to play quietly enough at home so I don't wake my children. I currently have five guitars - three electrics and two acoustics - and one of the others is a priceless Alex Lifeson ES-355 prototype. As much as I love all my other guitars, if I could only keep one then this would be it!

  6 of 6 people found this review helpful.
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• WOW

  
  As reviewed by Richard D Hill Jr on 6/4/2012

  I love this guitar. I picked up a sunburst model via the Las Vegas store. I fell in love with it instantly. I have played other Clapton Martins, but this one is special. Great tone and feel. This is one of only a couple guitars I will never get rid of.

  1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
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