Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (7)
$2,299.99
Guitar Center
$2,299.99
Musician's Friend
$2,299.99
Thomann
$2,777.00 $2,759.00 $18.00 · All time low

Average Price: $2,415

High-end/Boutique

$100

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Martin 000C12-16E Nylon". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Martin 000C12-16E Nylon is a beautifully crafted left-handed classical guitar, merging vintage aesthetics with contemporary playability. This exquisite instrument is designed for musicians who demand both rich, resonant tones and ergonomic comfort. The Auditorium body shape, coupled with a solid Sitka spruce top and satin-finished mahogany back and sides, produces a balanced tone with impressive projection. The mahogany's lightweight nature ensures clarity in the midrange, while the spruce top offers airy brightness to the highs, making it ideal for expressive and nuanced performances.

Equipped with nylon strings and a slim, low-profile neck, the 000C12-16E offers exceptional playability, perfect for intricate classical techniques. The satin finish on the neck prevents any hindrance, and the cutaway design facilitates effortless access to higher frets. With its 12-fret design, the guitar reduces finger stretch, enhancing comfort during complex passages.

The Martin 000C12-16E is not just about acoustic excellence; it also boasts advanced onboard electronics. The Martin E1 system provides intuitive control over your amplified sound, featuring volume, tone, and phase adjustments, along with a built-in chromatic tuner. Whether performing on stage or in the studio, this guitar ensures your sound remains true to its acoustic roots. Crafted with premium tonewoods, ergonomic design, and sophisticated electronics, this guitar is a timeless addition to any guitarist's collection.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top with satin mahogany back and sides
  • Slim mahogany neck with low-profile ebony fingerboard
  • Onboard Martin E1 electronics for amplified control
  • Ergonomic design with cutaway for easy high-fret access

Product specs

String Type Nylon
Number of Strings 6
Body Shape 000-12 Fret Cutaway
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Finish Satin
Top Wood Solid Spruce
Back & Sides Wood Solid Mahogany
Body Bracing Unique (A-Frame) X Brace System
Binding Black
Neck Wood Select Hardwood
Neck Shape Low Profile
Radius 18"
Number of Frets 20
Scale Length 26.44"
Tuning Machines Side-mount
Bridge Material Ebony
Nut/Saddle Material Bone/White Tusq
Nut Width 1.875"
Electronics Martin E1
Strings Martin Classical Magnifico Premium, Hard Tension
Case/Gig Bag Softshell Case

FAQs

What type of music is the Martin 000C12-16E Nylon best suited for?

The Martin 000C12-16E Nylon is ideal for classical, flamenco, and fingerstyle music, thanks to its nylon strings which provide a warm, mellow tone suitable for these genres.

Does the Martin 000C12-16E Nylon have a built-in pickup system?

Yes, the Martin 000C12-16E Nylon is equipped with the Martin E1 electronics system, allowing for amplified performance without compromising the guitar's natural sound.

What is the neck profile of the Martin 000C12-16E Nylon?

The Martin 000C12-16E Nylon features a low profile neck shape, which provides comfortable playability, especially for fingerstyle players and those transitioning from steel-string guitars.

Is the Martin 000C12-16E Nylon suitable for left-handed players?

The Martin 000C12-16E Nylon is designed for right-handed players. Left-handed players may need to seek a left-handed model or consider custom modifications.

What materials are used in the construction of the Martin 000C12-16E Nylon?

The guitar features a solid spruce top, solid mahogany back and sides, and an ebony bridge, providing a rich, resonant sound with excellent projection and sustain.

Does the Martin 000C12-16E Nylon come with a case?

Yes, the Martin 000C12-16E Nylon comes with a softshell case, offering protection and portability for your instrument.

session

session

NAMM 2020 - MARTIN 000c12-16e

Video thumbnail for NAMM 2020 - MARTIN 000c12-16e by session

NAMM 2020 - MARTIN 000c12-16e

session

session

Video thumbnail for Martin 000C12-16E Classical-Electric Quickview - Cosmo Music by Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Martin 000C12-16E Classical-Electric Quickview - Cosmo Music

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin 000C12-16E Nylon.

Comparisons

  • Some users suggest considering crossover models from Cordoba or Alhambra for better classical tone, as Martin's classical guitars may not match dedicated classical manufacturers in sound quality.

    Source
  • The scale length exceeds 26 inches, differing from typical classical and steel string guitars, which can affect playability and tone.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • It's recommended to avoid cutaways in classical guitars to prevent loss of sound quality, unless absolutely necessary for playability.

    Source
  • Potential buyers should decide between cedar and spruce tops, as these woods significantly affect the tonal quality, being darker and brighter respectively.

    Source
  • Users confirm the guitar's pickup system delivers impressive performance, contributing to its overall sound quality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Martin 000C12-16E Nylon might not be ideal for classical music enthusiasts, especially if the primary draw is brand affinity rather than tonal quality.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • For a budget around $2000, exploring luthier-made or higher-end factory classical guitars might offer better value and quality than the Martin 000C12-16E Nylon.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the inclusion of strap buttons, a rare feature in classical guitars, enhancing playability and comfort.

    Source

Build quality

  • The peach tuner knobs are highlighted as a standout aesthetic feature, adding to the guitar's visual appeal.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • La Bella Reds are recommended for optimal performance, enhancing the guitar's sound and playability.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how Madison Cunningham uses Martin 000C12-16E Nylon

Madison Cunningham

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Rig Rundown: Madison Cunningham" by Premier Guitar, Madison Cunningham is clearly seen playing a Martin 000C12-16E Acoustic-Electric Guitar at the 0:15 mark.

See how Lizzy McAlpine uses Martin 000C12-16E Nylon

Lizzy McAlpine

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Lizzy is playing this guitar in this performance.

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 000C12-16E Nylon, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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