Martin

Description

The Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Adirondack Spruce VTS-East Indian Rosewood Dreadnought acoustic guitar blends vintage tonewoods with modern construction for a standout instrument designed for expressive players. Built with an Adirondack spruce top treated with Martin's Vintage Tone System (VTS), this dreadnought delivers dynamic response and clarity for intricate fingerstyle or robust flatpicking. East Indian rosewood forms the back and sides, supporting a wide tonal range. Thoughtful details—like European flamed maple binding and liquid metal bridge pins—set this guitar apart visually and functionally. Musicians who demand both classic sound and refined playability will appreciate how this custom shop model responds in performance and recording environments.

Adirondack Spruce VTS Top Shapes Responsive Tone

The Adirondack spruce top uses Martin's VTS process to age the wood, unlocking greater resonance and a more open sound. Forward-shifted X-bracing supports the top, increasing dynamic range and projection. Each note sounds detailed and full, giving players control over subtle phrasing or loud strumming. Responsive tone makes this acoustic guitar a powerful tool for nuanced performances.

East Indian Rosewood Adds Depth and Sustain

Back and sides crafted from East Indian rosewood help the guitar produce warm lows and bell-like highs. This wood's natural density increases sustain, allowing chords and melodies to ring out longer. When paired with the Adirondack top, the rosewood body supports a sound that works well in solo or group settings. Depth and sustain improve musical expression for demanding players.

Intuitive Neck Design Supports Fast Fretting

A modified low oval neck profile fits comfortably in the hand, reducing fatigue during long practice or performance sessions. The 1-3/4" nut width and short diamond inlays provide clear finger guides. Grover nickel tuners stabilize pitch, while the satin neck finish keeps movement smooth. Players can shift quickly across the fretboard, maintaining accuracy through complex passages.

Durable Construction Extends Instrument Life

Details like a dovetail neck joint and bone nut and saddle support structural integrity. European flamed maple binding and heelcap add visual distinction while protecting vulnerable edges. Gloss finishes on the body resist wear, and a hardshell case keeps the unit safe during travel. These choices ensure the acoustic guitar stays reliable for years, even with frequent use.

Player Experience With the Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Dreadnought

Guitarists who need rich projection and smooth fretting will find this dreadnought acoustic guitar delivers both. Advanced bracing and neck design reward technical skill, and durable materials keep the instrument sounding consistent gig after gig. The result is a guitar that encourages precise playing and stands up to demanding use.

Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Adirondack Spruce VTS-East Indian Rosewood Dreadought Acoustic Guitar Natural
Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Adirondack Spruce VTS-East Indian Rosewood Dreadought Acoustic Guitar Natural
Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Adirondack Spruce VTS-East Indian Rosewood Dreadought Acoustic Guitar Natural

Features

  • Dreadnought body size delivers bold projection for studio or stage
  • Adirondack spruce VTS top creates responsive dynamics and clear tone
  • Forward-shifted X-bracing enhances volume and tonal balance
  • East Indian rosewood back and sides provide rich lows and warmth
  • European flamed maple binding adds durability and a refined touch
  • Modified low oval neck shape allows smooth playability during fast runs
  • Bone nut and saddle ensure consistent tone and reliable sustain
  • Liquid metal bridge pins improve string vibration transfer and tuning stability
  • Grover nickel tuners offer precise adjustments and long-term reliability
  • Includes hardshell case for secure transport and storage

Specs

General
  • Product type: Acoustic guitar
Body
  • Body shape: Dreadnought
  • Body wood: East Indian rosewood
  • Top wood: Adirondack spruce VTS
  • Top bracing pattern: X brace forward shifted
  • Top braces: Spruce
  • Back material: East Indian rosewood
  • Side materials: East Indian rosewood
  • Body finish: Gloss
  • Top finish: Gloss
Neck
  • Neck wood: Select hardwood
  • Neck shape: Modified low oval
  • Neck joint: Dovetail
  • Scale length: 25.4"
  • Neck finish: Satin
Fingerboard
  • Material: Ebony
  • Inlays: Diamonds and squares short
  • Number of frets: 20
  • Number of frets to body: 14
  • Nut width: 1.75"
  • Nut material: Bone
Hardware
  • Bridge type: Modern belly
  • Saddle: Bone
  • Bridge string spacing: 2.15625"
  • Tuning machines: Grover nickel
  • Pickguard: Faux tortoise
  • Bridge and end pin: Liquid metal gold with paua
Other
  • Strings: Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0
  • Case: Hardshell
  • Orientation: Right handed

Warranty

One year warranty on Martin Backpackers, Little Martins and ukuleles. Limited lifetime on other Martin guitars.

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