Pricing and availability

Average Price: $1,300

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

Discover the Martin BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass Guitar, a harmonious blend of acoustic warmth and electric versatility that beautifully caters to both unplugged and amplified performances. This instrument is a testament to Martin's craftsmanship, designed for musicians who crave rich, full-bodied tones and effortless playability. The solid Sitka spruce top paired with sapele back and sides ensures a resonant and balanced sound, offering the depth and clarity that bassists desire. The Special Bass neck profile provides an ergonomic fit, making long sessions feel like a breeze, while the solid black ebony fingerboard adds a touch of elegance and smooth playability.

When it's time to amplify, the BCPA-4 doesn't disappoint. Equipped with the Fishman Matrix VT Enhance electronics, this bass guitar delivers a natural and dynamic sound, ensuring that your tone remains pristine and expressive, whether you're on stage or in the studio. The J-14 fret cutaway body not only contributes to its impressive sound but also offers easy access to higher frets, expanding your musical possibilities.

Ideal for both seasoned performers and passionate amateurs, the Martin BCPA-4 is more than just an instrument; it's a reliable companion on your musical journey. With its robust build and timeless design, it's destined to be an enduring part of your collection.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top; solid sapele back and sides
  • J-14 fret cutaway body for big, balanced tone and comfort
  • Solid black ebony fingerboard
  • Special Bass neck profile for speed and comfort
  • Fishman Matrix VT Enhance electronics for natural sound
  • Includes Martin 360 hardshell case

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model BCPA4 Performing Artist Bass
Finish Natural
Year 2014
Categories 4-String Basses, Acoustic Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Color Family Natural
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 23
Number of Strings 4-String
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of the Martin BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass Guitar?

The Martin BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass Guitar offers a rich and warm tone, typical of Martin's craftsmanship. Its solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides contribute to a balanced sound with clear lows and mids, making it versatile for various music styles.

Is the Martin BCPA-4 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Martin BCPA-4 is well-suited for live performances due to its active electronics and built-in preamp, which provide excellent amplified sound. The single cutaway design also allows easy access to higher frets, enhancing playability on stage.

How does the Martin BCPA-4 handle different playing styles?

The Martin BCPA-4 is versatile and accommodates fingerstyle, pick, and slap techniques effectively. Its responsive tonewoods and active pickup system ensure clarity and depth across various playing styles.

What type of strings does the Martin BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass Guitar use?

The Martin BCPA-4 typically comes with phosphor bronze strings, which complement its warm, resonant tone. These strings are known for their durability and bright sound, enhancing the guitar's overall acoustic performance.

Does the Martin BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass Guitar require a specific type of amplifier?

The Martin BCPA-4 can be used with any standard bass amplifier. Its active preamp ensures a strong signal output, making it compatible with a wide range of amps for both practice and performance settings.

Jake Stogdill Guitar

Jake Stogdill Guitar

Martin BCPA4 Acoustic Bass Demo

Video thumbnail for Martin BCPA4 Acoustic Bass Demo by Jake Stogdill Guitar

Martin BCPA4 Acoustic Bass Demo

Jake Stogdill Guitar

Jake Stogdill Guitar

Video thumbnail for Martin Performing Artist series BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass at The Fellowship of Acoustics by The Fellowship of Acoustics

Martin Performing Artist series BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass at The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for MARTIN BCPA4 Acoustic Bass Demo by lalofierro

MARTIN BCPA4 Acoustic Bass Demo

lalofierro

lalofierro

Video thumbnail for Martin BCPA4 Acoustic Bass set-up by Stephen Stobbs

Martin BCPA4 Acoustic Bass set-up

Stephen Stobbs

Stephen Stobbs

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass Guitar.

Comparisons

  • The Martin BCPA4 is noted as the loudest unplugged acoustic bass guitar experienced by users, though its cost is often prohibitive.

    Source
  • Owners suggest the Kala UBass as an alternative for those seeking a compact bass with a sound similar to an upright bass, noted for its portability and unique tone.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners have found the Martin BCPA4 suitable for quiet practice and casual acoustic sit-downs in social settings, despite its limited unplugged volume.

    Source
  • This acoustic bass competes with an acoustic guitar in unplugged settings, but requires aggressive playing for optimal projection, making it suitable for campfire settings.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users perceive acoustic bass guitars, including the Martin BCPA4, as lacking in volume and tone compared to their expectations for acoustic instruments.

    Source

Build quality

  • Issues such as a malfunctioning jack and difficulties with large hands have been reported with the Martin BCPA4, impacting usability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Martin BCPA4 includes a piezo pickup with a decent preamp, though a compressor and preamp pedal can enhance its direct sound into a PA system.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A strong playing technique is necessary to avoid "string shake," highlighting the need for players to adapt their style for clean tones on this instrument.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Martin BCPA4 Bass Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Martin BCPA4 Acoustic Bass Guitar impresses with its top-notch craftsmanship and rich, warm tones. Its unplugged sound is louder and fuller than many competitors, making it a great pick for acoustic settings. However, its high price might deter those who would use it sparingly, and like most acoustic basses, it requires amplification to truly shine in most environments. Overall, it's a beautifully crafted instrument that delivers on sound and playability, justifying its price for serious acoustic performers.

positive

Product Review: Martin Performing Artist Series BCPA4 Bass Guitar - Guitar Girl Magazine

guitargirlmag.com

The Martin BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass Guitar is a stunning instrument with classic beauty and robust sound quality. The review praises its impeccable construction, the harmonious blend of Martin Acoustic SP Bass Light strings, and the Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2 electronics that amplify its powerful, organic acoustic voice. Playability is emphasized, with smooth neck action making it ideal for various playing styles. However, the review does not mention any significant drawbacks, focusing predominantly on its strengths. Overall, it’s regarded as a "dream-come-true" bass, setting a high standard for acoustic bass guitars.

positive

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guitarfella.com

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Chris Squire uses Martin BCPA-4 Acoustic Bass Guitar

Chris Squire

Singer, Bassist

Yes

...
Verified via YouTube

At 2:47 of this acoustic performance of "Roundabout" by Yes, Squire can be seen with a fretless version of the Martin BCPA-4.

Genre Usage

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

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