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Average Price: $5,224
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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
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What type of wood is used in the Martin Custom Shop OM-42?
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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.
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Is the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 suitable for fingerstyle playing?
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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.
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Does the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 come with a pickup system?
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No, the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 does not come with an active preamp or pickup system, making it a purely acoustic guitar.
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How does the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 compare to the OM-28 in terms of sound?
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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.
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Is the Martin Custom Shop OM-42 suitable for live performances?
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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.
Videos
Diamond Guitars - Premium Acoustic Guitars
Sound impression Martin Custom Shop OM-42
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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