Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $872

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Martin DM12 is a classic choice for musicians seeking a rich, full-bodied sound that only a 12-string acoustic guitar can deliver. This steel-string beauty from Martin offers not just a robust tonal presence but also the exceptional craftsmanship that the brand is known for. Constructed with a solid spruce top, the DM12 provides a bright and dynamic sound, while the mahogany back and sides add depth and warmth, making it perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking.

This guitar is designed to cater to the needs of seasoned players and aspiring musicians alike. Its dovetail neck joint ensures stability and enhances resonance, contributing to its superior sound projection. The guitar's satin finish allows for smooth playability and comfort, making it an excellent choice for long jam sessions or recording in the studio.

Whether you're accompanying a band or performing solo, the Martin DM12 stands out with its classic design and reliable performance. It's a versatile instrument that adapts well to various music genres, from folk and rock to blues and beyond.

Key Features:

  • 12-string acoustic guitar for a fuller, richer sound
  • Solid spruce top for bright tonality
  • Mahogany back and sides for warm resonance
  • Dovetail neck joint for enhanced stability and sound projection
  • Satin finish for comfortable playability
  • Ideal for diverse music styles, from folk to rock and blues
  • Perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking techniques

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model DM-12
Finish Natural
Year 2001 - 2011
Made In Mexico
Categories 12-String Acoustic Guitars, Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Natural
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Martin DM
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 12-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin Road Series
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What is the body shape of the Martin DM12, and how does it affect the sound?

The Martin DM12 features a dreadnought body shape, which provides a bold and powerful sound with strong bass and volume, making it ideal for strumming and flat-picking.

What materials are used in the construction of the Martin DM12?

The Martin DM12 is constructed with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, offering a warm tone with clear highs and a rich, resonant low end.

How many strings does the Martin DM12 have, and what type are they?

The Martin DM12 is a 12-string acoustic guitar, equipped with steel strings that provide a full, shimmering sound ideal for a wide range of musical styles.

Is the Martin DM12 suitable for live performances without additional amplification?

The Martin DM12 does not come with an active preamp or pickups, so it would require external amplification or microphones for live performances.

What is the finish style of the Martin DM12, and how does it impact the guitar's appearance?

The Martin DM12 has a satin finish, which gives it a natural look and feel, while also allowing the wood to resonate freely for optimal sound quality.

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Martin DM-12 string, 2001 at The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for Martin DM-12 string, 2001 at The Fellowship of Acoustics by The Fellowship of Acoustics

Martin DM-12 string, 2001 at The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for Martin DM-12 - How Does it Sound? by Steve Wagner

Martin DM-12 - How Does it Sound?

Steve Wagner

Steve Wagner

Video thumbnail for Martin DM 12-string at The Fellowship of Acoustics by The Fellowship of Acoustics

Martin DM 12-string at The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for Martin DM-12 by Music Quietvillage

Martin DM-12

Music Quietvillage

Music Quietvillage

Video thumbnail for Martin DM-12 by RM Maloney

Martin DM-12

RM Maloney

RM Maloney

Video thumbnail for 🎸 Martin DM-12 | 12-String Acoustic Tone Demo – In the Room & In the Studio 🎸 by Brian Coyne Guitar

🎸 Martin DM-12 | 12-String Acoustic Tone Demo – In the Room & In the Studio 🎸

Brian Coyne Guitar

Brian Coyne Guitar

Video thumbnail for [試奏動画] Martin / DM-12(2006年製 USED) played by 楓太 by 楽器の店ポンポロプーchannel

[試奏動画] Martin / DM-12(2006年製 USED) played by 楓太

楽器の店ポンポロプーchannel

楽器の店ポンポロプーchannel

Reviews

PROS

  • Affordable access to classic Martin craftsmanship

  • Made in Pennsylvania, ensuring high-quality construction

  • Stays in tune remarkably well

  • Deep tone with sweet highs similar to pricier models

  • Easy playability for a 12-string guitar

  • Perfect for achieving classic 12-string sound in folk and rock

  • Offers the experience of breaking in a new Martin guitar

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin DM12.

Value and pricing

  • A DM-12 with a small chip and hairline crack is considered a good deal at $500, assuming no major issues like a neck reset.

    Source
  • A DM-12 priced at $700 with free shipping is deemed a good deal, especially for a USA-made model from before the production shift to Mexico.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Repairing small cracks is recommended to prevent worsening, with repair costs potentially as low as $10 per inch depending on the luthier.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner notes that small cracks, similar to those on the DM-12, can remain stable and not worsen over a period of five years without repair.

    Source
  • Owners with long-term usage report satisfaction, noting that the DM-12 maintains its sound quality over the years, even compared to more expensive Martin models.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners highlight that the DM-12 has a laminated mahogany back and sides with a solid spruce top, providing a characteristic Martin tone despite not being all solid wood.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The DM-12 is praised for sounding more like a classic Martin compared to the X series, which is described as having a "thick and dead" sound.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Nando Reis uses Martin DM12

Nando Reis

Singer, Guitarist

Titãs

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video, in wich Nando shows his acoustic gear, he mentions this guitar.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Martin DM12, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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