Martin BCPA4 Bass

^# 32

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$1,045.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (1)

3 Critic Reviews

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Page last updated Jun 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 3, 2026.

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5.0 (5)

$1,045.00 3 available Used

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Average Price: $1,045

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

In the Acoustic & Acoustic-Electric Basses category, Martin BCPA4 Bass is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Experience the harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation with the Martin BCPA4 Bass. This acoustic-electric bass guitar is designed for musicians who crave the warm resonance of an unplugged acoustic and the versatility of electric amplification. Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and solid sapele back and sides, the BCPA4 ensures exceptional tonal balance and projection. Its jumbo body shape offers a rich, detailed sound that effortlessly fills any space.

The BCPA4 is equipped with Fishman Matrix VT Enhance electronics, providing a seamless transition from acoustic to amplified sound. This intuitive system features tone and volume controls, along with an Enhance feature that captures the natural nuances of your performance. Whether you’re strumming in a cozy café or performing on a large stage, the BCPA4 delivers a pure and authentic sound.

Comfort and playability are not overlooked; the Special Bass neck profile offers a smooth, speedy playing experience, ideal for both marathon gigs and intimate sessions. With a solid black ebony fingerboard, your fingers will glide effortlessly over the frets, allowing for precise and expressive playing.

Key Features:

Solid Sitka spruce top; solid sapele back and sides
J-14 fret cutaway body for balanced tone and comfort
Solid black ebony fingerboard
Martin's Special Bass neck profile for enhanced playability
Fishman Matrix VT Enhance electronics for superior sound
Includes Martin 360 hardshell case

Product specs

Brand	Martin
Model	BCPA4 Performing Artist Bass
Finish	Natural
Year	2016
Made In	United States
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

Is the Martin BCPA4 Bass suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Martin BCPA4 Bass is designed for live performances with its active preamp and built-in electronics, providing a rich and amplified sound suitable for stage use.
What type of pickups does the Martin BCPA4 Bass have?: The Martin BCPA4 Bass is equipped with active pickups, which offer a clear and dynamic sound ideal for various playing styles.
How many frets does the Martin BCPA4 Bass have?: The Martin BCPA4 Bass features 23 frets, allowing for an extended range and versatility in playing different musical styles.
What is the body shape of the Martin BCPA4 Bass?: The Martin BCPA4 Bass has a single cutaway body shape, providing easy access to higher frets and enhancing playability.
What material is used for the fretboard of the Martin BCPA4 Bass?: The fretboard of the Martin BCPA4 Bass is made from rosewood, contributing to its warm tone and smooth playing feel.

Videos

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Jake Stogdill Guitar

Martin BCPA4 Acoustic Bass Demo

Jake Stogdill Guitar

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

The Fellowship of Acoustics

MARTIN BCPA4 Acoustic Bass Demo

lalofierro

Martin BCPA4 Acoustic Bass set-up

Stephen Stobbs

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional build quality with no buzzing or high frets
Rich, piano-like unplugged sound quality
Large, deep Martin D body projects sound well
Excellent tone, both plugged and unplugged
Suitable for serious musicians focused on tone and playability
Handles outdoor settings well with small amps
Versatile string compatibility for desired tone and volume
Highly recommended for acoustic gigs

CONS

Controls located inside the sound hole on newer models
Hard case is average and not ideal for extensive travel
Some string noise with Phosphor Bronze Light Gauge Round Wound Strings
Buzzing issue on low F; second fret may be high
Martin has discontinued production of this model

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin BCPA4 Bass.

Comparisons

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The Martin BCPA4 is noted as the loudest and best-sounding unplugged acoustic bass played by some users, though it's considered expensive.
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The Kala UBass is recommended as an alternative, offering portability, a sound reminiscent of an upright bass, and compatibility with most amps.
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User experience

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A Martin bass is reportedly not loud enough to jam with but suitable for acoustic sit-downs in casual settings.
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An owner experienced "string shake" when not playing with enough force, impacting clean tonal output.
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Value and pricing

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The Martin BCPA4 is described as being made of "Unaffordium," suggesting its high price point and exclusivity.
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Use cases and applications

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While not ideal for high-volume jams, the Martin can be appreciated for its projection in quieter, more intimate environments.
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The Martin BCPA4 effectively competes unplugged with an acoustic guitar and benefits from compression and preamp pedals when plugged into a PA.
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Other

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The concept of acoustic basses often falls short in practice, with some users recommending traditional double basses for better acoustic performance.
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Features and functionality

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The Martin BCPA4 includes a piezo pickup with a decent preamp, enhancing its versatility for both unplugged and plugged-in performances.
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Mods and upgrades

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Owners suggest taming the Martin BCPA4's plugged-in tone with a compressor and preamp pedal for optimal sound quality.
Source

Critic Reviews

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

guitargirlmag.com

The Martin BCPA4 Bass is a dream for acoustic bass enthusiasts, characterized by its impeccable construction and enchanting tone. Its stunning design and blend of classic woods embody elegance and quality. The instrument excels both acoustically and when amplified, delivering a rich, commanding sound. While its price point is high, its craftsmanship and performance justify the investment, making it a top choice for serious musicians seeking a premium acoustic bass experience.

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