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Average Price: $485

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Description

The Martin Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought is a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern materials, offering musicians a rich, full-bodied sound that's perfect for both the stage and the studio. Known for its robust dreadnought body, this guitar delivers a resonant tone that fills the room with its shimmering, twelve-string sound. Its high-pressure laminate (HPL) construction provides durability and stability, making it a reliable choice for touring artists and casual players alike.

The neck is made from rust birch laminate, which ensures smooth playability and comfort during extended sessions. The fingerboard and bridge are crafted from FSC Certified Richlite, a sustainable material that maintains the instrument's environmental friendliness without compromising on quality. The Martin Custom X Series also features a Sitka spruce top, renowned for its ability to produce clear, articulate notes that cut through any mix. With its quality construction and attention to detail, this guitar caters to those seeking a dependable instrument with a timeless sound.

Whether you're strumming intricate melodies or bold, powerful chords, the Martin Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought offers a dynamic range and versatility that appeals to a wide array of musical styles.

Key Features:

  • Dreadnought body shape for a full, resonant sound
  • High-pressure laminate (HPL) construction for durability
  • Sitka spruce top for clear, articulate tone
  • Rust birch laminate neck for smooth playability
  • FSC Certified Richlite fingerboard and bridge
  • Twelve-string design for a rich, complex sound

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought
Year 2010s
Made In Mexico
Categories 12-String Acoustic Guitars, Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Natural
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 12-String
Pickup Undersaddle Piezo Pickup
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin X-Series
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the Martin Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought, and how does it affect the sound?

The Martin Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought features a spruce top and mahogany back and sides. This combination offers a balanced tone with clear highs and warm lows, making it suitable for a variety of musical styles.

Is the Martin Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Martin Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought is suitable for beginners. It offers a comfortable playability and robust sound that is ideal for those starting out on a 12-string guitar, while its affordability makes it accessible for new players.

Does the Martin Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought have an onboard preamp?

Yes, this guitar includes an active preamp with an undersaddle piezo pickup, allowing you to easily amplify your sound for live performances or recordings.

How does the dreadnought body shape of the Martin Custom X Series 12-String affect its sound?

The dreadnought body shape provides a powerful, full-bodied sound with strong bass response, making it ideal for strumming and flatpicking styles.

What kind of strings does the Martin Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought use?

This guitar uses steel strings, which contribute to its bright and resonant sound, perfect for a wide range of musical genres.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin Custom X Series 12-String Dreadnought.

Value and pricing

  • Owners with high-end collections praise the Martin Custom X Series for its affordability and surprisingly high playability compared to much more expensive models.

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Features and functionality

  • The guitar features Fishman pickups with a hidden control panel, enhancing its appeal for live performances with a clean and adaptable tone.

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  • The matte finish on the Martin Custom X Series contributes to its durability and ability to withstand abuse, making it suitable for busking and open mics.

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User experience

  • This model is favored for frequent use, even among owners of premium guitars, due to its durability and versatile tonal capabilities.

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  • Some owners find fingerstyle playing uninspiring, suggesting it's better suited for strumming with picks.

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Use cases and applications

  • The Martin Custom X is often chosen as a go-to instrument for casual settings, offering a warm, full tone suitable for various playing styles.

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  • Excellent choice for outdoor activities like camping, offering robust sound for rhythm in casual settings.

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  • The Martin Custom X Series is praised for its warm, boomy low end, making it ideal for live performances and informal settings like open mics.

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  • The HPL construction is preferred by some for busking due to its resilience, though other brands may offer brighter sounds more suited for studio recording.

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Comparisons

  • Described as offering playability akin to high-end Taylor models and full-bodied sound reminiscent of Gibson J-45s, making it a versatile choice for diverse musical preferences.

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  • Owners note it performs well in group settings where specific tonewood nuances are not as noticeable.

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  • An Alvarez MD60 BG is noted as having sound quality comparable to a Martin D-18 but with a louder output, providing a budget-friendly alternative.

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  • The Yamaha FG-TA is recommended as an affordable alternative, with notable sound quality for the price point, rivaling Martin's offerings.

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Build quality

  • HPL (High-Pressure Laminate) construction is nearly indestructible, making it ideal for travel and rugged use.

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  • Some owners have experienced binding lift around the waist of the guitar, commonly resolved with a $30 repair, indicating a potential maintenance consideration.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report factory actions over 4mm at the 12th fret, suggesting a setup is crucial for optimal playability, especially in varying climates.

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