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Average Price: $2,495

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

The 1961 Martin 0-18 is a vintage gem that brings a piece of musical history right into your hands. This steel-string acoustic guitar is celebrated for its rich tonal quality and impeccable craftsmanship, a testament to Martin's long-standing tradition of excellence. Built in the early '60s, this model features a solid Sitka spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides, offering a balanced and articulate sound that has aged gracefully over the decades. Its smaller 0-size body makes it incredibly comfortable to play, whether you're fingerpicking in a studio setting or strumming at an intimate live gig.

The 1961 Martin 0-18 is renowned for its warm, resonant tones that suit a wide range of musical styles, from folk to blues to country. The vintage design elements, like the classic dovetail neck joint and tortoiseshell pickguard, add both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. The guitar's Brazilian rosewood fingerboard and bridge enhance its playability, providing smooth, fluid action across the frets. This model is perfect for collectors, enthusiasts, and musicians who appreciate the sound and feel of a truly iconic acoustic guitar.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top for a rich, resonant sound
  • Mahogany back and sides for warm, balanced tones
  • Brazilian rosewood fingerboard and bridge for enhanced playability
  • Classic dovetail neck joint for structural integrity and sustain
  • Vintage tortoiseshell pickguard for a timeless look
  • 0-size body for comfortable playing and portability

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model 0-18
Finish Natural, Sunburst
Year 1946 - 1964
Made In United States
Categories Concert Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape 0
Color Family Natural, Orange
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Martin 0-18
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 18
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin Post-War Era
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the 1961 Martin 0-18's back and sides?

The 1961 Martin 0-18 features mahogany for both its back and sides, which contributes to its warm, balanced tone with a strong midrange presence.

How does the body shape of the 1961 Martin 0-18 affect its sound?

The 0 body shape of the 1961 Martin 0-18 is smaller, providing a focused sound with clear articulation, making it ideal for fingerstyle playing and intimate performances.

What is the top material of the 1961 Martin 0-18, and how does it influence the guitar's tone?

The top of the 1961 Martin 0-18 is made from spruce, which offers a bright and resonant tone with excellent clarity and dynamic range.

Does the 1961 Martin 0-18 come with a pickup system?

No, the 1961 Martin 0-18 does not come with a pickup system; it is a purely acoustic guitar designed for natural sound projection.

Is the 1961 Martin 0-18 suitable for left-handed players?

The 1961 Martin 0-18 is designed for right-handed players and does not have a left-handed version available.

Reviews

PROS

  • Delivers fantastic sound with warm mid-range tones and ample bass

  • Perfect in-between size offers comfort for extended playing sessions

  • Surprisingly high volume projection for a smaller-bodied guitar

  • Comfortable to play for individuals with average-sized hands

  • Excellent choice for collectors seeking a vintage "birth year" guitar

  • Sweet sounding and fun to play, enhancing overall enjoyment

  • Great for personal, quiet playing sessions in intimate settings

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin 1961 Martin 0-18.

User experience

  • Owners highlight the Martin 00-18's comfort and suitability for couch playing, particularly for fingerstyle, with its smaller body and traditional design.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Martin 00-18 is often compared to the Gibson L-00 for its rich tone and comfortable playability, with some users preferring Martin's build quality and tonal warmth.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The 00-18 is praised for its versatility in both fingerstyle and light strumming, making it a favorite for players seeking a balanced, intimate sound.

    Source

Build quality

  • It's noted that individual Martin guitars, like the 00-18, can vary in sound due to their solid wood construction, emphasizing the importance of trying before buying.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners suggest that the playability of the 00-18 can be greatly enhanced with a professional setup, as factory setups may not meet all players' preferences.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 00-18’s traditional 12-fret design and short scale are appreciated for enhancing playability and ease of reaching higher frets, while offering a vintage tone.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Marcus King uses Martin 1961 Martin 0-18

Marcus King

Guitarist

The Marcus King Band

...
Verified via YouTube

At 5:38 of his Premier Guitar Rig Rundown, Marcus mentions that he has a "'61 0-18" that he keeps at home.

See how Tommy Tedesco uses Martin 1961 Martin 0-18

Tommy Tedesco

Guitarist

The Wrecking Crew

...
Verified

According to a Heritage Auction list featured on the Drum Forum website, guitarist Tommy Tedesco owned a 1961 Martin 0-18.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Martin 1961 Martin 0-18, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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