Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $4,378
High-end/Boutique
$200
$601+
Price Tier
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Standard
High-end
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Description
Crafted with precision and a nod to tradition, the Martin Custom Shop 00-18 is a masterpiece of acoustic guitar craftsmanship. Designed for musicians who appreciate the intimate sound and feel of a small-bodied guitar, the 00-18 delivers a balanced tone that is both warm and articulate. Its solid Sitka spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides provides a rich, resonant sound that excels in both fingerstyle and strumming applications. The guitar's compact size makes it a comfortable choice for players looking for a more manageable instrument without compromising on sound quality.
The 00-18 features a modified low oval neck profile with a high-performance taper, ensuring a smooth playing experience across the fretboard. The ebony fingerboard and bridge add to the guitar's premium feel, while the bone nut and saddle enhance sustain and tonal clarity. A natural gloss finish highlights the elegant wood grain, making this guitar not only a joy to play but also a visual delight.
Perfect for both recording sessions and live performances, the Martin Custom Shop 00-18 is a versatile addition to any guitarist's collection. Whether you're performing solo or in a band setting, this guitar's exceptional projection and dynamic range will shine through.
Key Features:
- Solid Sitka spruce top
- Mahogany back and sides
- Ebony fingerboard and bridge
- Modified low oval neck profile with high-performance taper
- Bone nut and saddle
- Gloss finish
Product specs
| Brand | Martin |
| Model | 00-18 |
| Made In | United States |
| Active Preamp | No |
| Body Shape | 00 |
| Model Family | Martin 00-18 |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup | None |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Martin Custom Shop |
| String Type | Steel |
FAQs
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What is the body shape of the Martin Custom Shop 00-18, and how does it affect the sound?
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The Martin Custom Shop 00-18 has a 00 body shape, which is smaller and more comfortable to hold. This shape typically offers a balanced tone with clear mids and highs, making it ideal for fingerstyle playing and smaller venues.
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Does the Martin Custom Shop 00-18 come with a built-in pickup system?
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No, the Martin Custom Shop 00-18 does not come with a built-in pickup system, making it a purely acoustic guitar suitable for traditional playing styles.
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How many frets does the Martin Custom Shop 00-18 have, and what does this mean for playability?
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The Martin Custom Shop 00-18 has 20 frets, providing a standard range for most acoustic guitar playing styles, from open chords to higher fret soloing.
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Is the Martin Custom Shop 00-18 suitable for left-handed players?
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The Martin Custom Shop 00-18 is designed for right-handed players. Left-handed players may need to seek a custom option or alternative model.
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What type of strings does the Martin Custom Shop 00-18 use?
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The Martin Custom Shop 00-18 uses steel strings, which are known for their bright, clear tone and are ideal for various music genres, including folk, rock, and blues.
Videos
Dolphin Guitars
Martin Custom Shop 00-18 Engelmann Spruce Demo - Player 細川MASH
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional balance and sensitivity, perfect for fingerstyle playing
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Englemann Spruce top offers a resonant, vibrant sound
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Flamed Mahogany enhances aesthetics and tonal richness
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Surprisingly loud for a 00-sized guitar
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High-quality build meets Custom Shop standards
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Carpathian Spruce provides clear, bright tones with excellent projection
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Modified V neck shape ideal for finger picking
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Sinker Mahogany and Carpathian Spruce combination perfect for blues
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Lightweight, making it easy to handle and play
CONS
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High price point may deter potential buyers
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin Custom Shop 00-18.
Comparisons
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The Martin 00-18 is considered balanced and sweet, comparable to the larger HD-28, which excels at strumming but lacks the 00-18's fingerpicking finesse.
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User experience
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Owners often prefer the 00-18 over other models like the 000-18 and OM-28 due to its comfortable size and non-thin sound despite its smaller body.
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Owners note the thin finish can be unforgiving, attracting fingerprints easily, yet it contributes to the guitar's resonance and character as it ages.
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Setup and maintenance
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String choices impact tone significantly; Martin Retros are praised for their even tone and longevity, while DR Sunbeams add warmth and sparkle.
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Features and functionality
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The Martin 00-18 is praised for its recording quality and versatility, with users noting its punchy and direct sound.
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The long scale length is preferred for providing extra punch, volume, and openness, differentiating it from standard models.
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The Adirondack spruce top with bearclaw and flamed mahogany back and sides offer a unique visual appeal and contribute to a well-balanced tone with substantial low end and sustain.
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Use cases and applications
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The 00-18 is favored for fingerpicking and recording projects, offering a sweet and balanced tone that suits various musical styles.
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Value and pricing
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Purchasing a Martin 00-18 in mint condition can yield significant savings, with some buyers paying around 60% of the new price.
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Custom builds, even with extensive specifications, can sometimes be discounted from a list price of over $6,500, making them accessible for custom enthusiasts.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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