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Average Price: $5,224

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$200

$601+

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Description

The Martin Custom Shop OM-42 is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and tonal excellence, designed for discerning musicians who value both aesthetic beauty and superior sound. This orchestra model acoustic guitar delivers a balanced tonal spectrum, perfect for fingerstyle players and flatpickers alike. Its construction features a solid Sitka spruce top, paired with East Indian rosewood back and sides, offering a rich, full-bodied resonance with ample volume and sustain.

The OM-42's elegant design is elevated by intricate abalone inlays and a refined gloss finish, showcasing Martin's dedication to artistry. The hand-scalloped X-bracing enhances the guitar’s projection and tonal clarity, while the modified low oval neck with a high-performance taper ensures comfortable playability across the fretboard. The vintage-inspired aesthetic is complemented by an ebony fingerboard and bridge, providing both durability and a sleek appearance.

For musicians seeking an instrument that marries traditional craftsmanship with modern playability, the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 stands out as a pinnacle of acoustic guitar design. Its precise intonation and dynamic range make it a versatile choice for various genres, while its visual and auditory presence makes it a prized addition to any collection.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top for dynamic tonal response
  • East Indian rosewood back and sides for rich sound
  • Hand-scalloped X-bracing for enhanced projection
  • Modified low oval neck with high-performance taper
  • Ebony fingerboard and bridge for durability and style
  • Intricate abalone inlays and gloss finish for visual appeal

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model OM-42
Made In United States
Active Preamp No
Body Shape Orchestra
Model Family Martin OM-42
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin Custom Shop
String Type Steel

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the Martin Custom Shop OM-42?

The Martin Custom Shop OM-42 features a Sitka spruce top with East Indian rosewood back and sides, offering a combination of strong projection, rich overtones, and deep bass.

Is the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the Martin Custom Shop OM-42's Orchestra Model (OM) body shape and balanced tone make it ideal for fingerstyle playing, providing clarity across all strings.

Does the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 come with a pickup system?

No, the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 does not come with an active preamp or pickup system, making it a purely acoustic guitar.

How does the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 compare to the OM-28 in terms of sound?

The OM-42 offers a similar balanced tone to the OM-28 but adds more visual embellishments and a slightly richer, more resonant sound due to its premium materials and craftsmanship.

Is the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 suitable for live performances?

While the OM-42 is an excellent acoustic guitar for live performance due to its rich sound, it lacks a built-in pickup and would require an external microphone or pickup system for amplification.

Diamond Guitars - Premium Acoustic Guitars

Diamond Guitars - Premium Acoustic Guitars

Sound impression Martin Custom Shop OM-42

Video thumbnail for Sound impression Martin Custom Shop OM-42 by Diamond Guitars - Premium Acoustic Guitars

Sound impression Martin Custom Shop OM-42

Diamond Guitars - Premium Acoustic Guitars

Diamond Guitars - Premium Acoustic Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin Custom Shop OM-42.

Comparisons

  • Martin uses higher quality tops on the OM-42 compared to the OM-28, though preference is subjective.

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  • Some players prefer the 000-28 1937 Authentic for its balance and projection over the OM-42.

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  • Owners note that the OM-42 consistently outshines other models like the OM-28 and custom variants in both sound quality and playability, despite similar construction and features.

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Other

  • Owners have tried Martin Authentic SP Phosphor Bronze 11-52 and D'Addario 80/20 Bronze in the same gauge for different tonal qualities.

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Use cases and applications

  • The OM-42 offers clear, crisp sound suitable for varied musical styles, differing from the deeper tone of a D28.

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Build quality

  • Owners admire the OM-42 for its premium wood sets, noting straight rosewood grain patterns as a standout feature compared to the more wavy patterns on the OM-28.

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  • The 40 series, including the OM-42, uses superior wood quality compared to lower series models, contributing to its distinct tonal superiority.

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  • Modern Deluxe models, such as the D-45, feature torrified tops known as the "Vintage Tone System," offering a different aesthetic and aging process compared to standard series tops.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners have experienced binding separation issues with the OM-28, necessitating repairs and careful storage with humidity packs.

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Features and functionality

  • The OM-42 includes intricate abalone inserts on the sides, rosette, frets, and headstock, enhancing its aesthetic appeal over the OM-28.

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User experience

  • Players express nervousness about potential dings and scratches on the OM-42 due to its premium materials and finishes.

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  • An owner expressed a preference for the OM-42 over the D-45, despite both being high-end models, indicating the OM-42's exceptional sound and playability.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Users often choose Ernie Ball Earthwood medium light 80/20 bronze strings to enhance the tonal qualities of their OM-42 guitars.

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