Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $2,041
High-end/Boutique
$200
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Martin GPC-16E". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unlock a world of musical expression with the Martin GPC-16E, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern innovation. This Grand Performance model is designed to offer musicians a versatile playing experience, whether you're strumming on stage or recording in the studio. The GPC-16E combines a solid Sitka spruce top with East Indian rosewood back and sides, producing a resonant, balanced tone that sings with clarity and depth.
The high-performance neck tapers for comfortable playability, allowing for smooth transitions across the fretboard. With its built-in Fishman Matrix VT Enhance electronics, this guitar ensures that your amplified sound is as rich and dynamic as its acoustic counterpart. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a seasoned performer, the GPC-16E’s design caters to all playing styles, providing both comfort and precision.
Enhance your musical journey with the Martin GPC-16E, where every strum and pick echoes with excellence and passion. Its elegant design is a testament to Martin’s legacy of crafting guitars that are both beautiful and enduring. So, whether you're playing a delicate fingerstyle or belting out powerful chords, the GPC-16E gives you the tools to express your artistry with authenticity.
Key Features:
- Solid Sitka spruce top
- East Indian rosewood back and sides
- High-performance neck taper
- Fishman Matrix VT Enhance electronics
- Grand Performance body shape for versatile playability
- Comfortable neck profile for easy transitions
Product specs
| Brand | Martin |
| Model | GPC-16E |
| Finish | Natural |
| Year | 2018 - 2024 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Acoustic-Electric Guitars |
| Active Preamp | Yes |
| Back Material | Koa |
| Body Shape | Auditorium |
| Color Family | Natural |
| Finish Style | Satin |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Model Family | Martin GP-16 |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup | Hybrid System |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Martin 16 / 17 Series |
| Sides Material | Koa |
| String Type | Steel |
| Top Material | Spruce |
FAQs
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What type of wood is used in the construction of the Martin GPC-16E?
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The Martin GPC-16E features a Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides, providing a rich and balanced tone suitable for various playing styles.
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What electronics are included with the Martin GPC-16E?
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The Martin GPC-16E is equipped with Martin E1 electronics, which include a tuner, volume, tone, and phase controls for versatile sound shaping during live performances.
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Is the Martin GPC-16E suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Martin GPC-16E is ideal for live performances due to its built-in Martin E1 electronics and hybrid pickup system, offering excellent amplified sound quality.
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What is the body shape of the Martin GPC-16E, and how does it affect playability?
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The Martin GPC-16E has an auditorium body shape, which provides a comfortable playing experience with a balanced tone that is well-suited for fingerstyle and strumming.
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Does the Martin GPC-16E come with a case?
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Yes, the Martin GPC-16E includes a softshell case, which offers protection and easy transport for the guitar.
Videos
Alamo Music Center
New Guitar Review: Martin Guitars GPC-16E | Affordably Priced and Made in the USA!
Reviews
PROS
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Solid spruce top and koa back and sides offer unique tonal balance
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Fishman Aura VT Enhance pickup system minimizes feedback effectively
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Surprisingly loud for a shallow body guitar
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Excellent fit and finish with impeccable craftsmanship
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Comfortable neck and body, suitable for various player sizes
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Balanced tone stands out well in group settings
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Accurate and easy-to-use pickup system for recording
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Simple design with durable ebony fret and bridge
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Made in the USA, ensuring quality craftsmanship
CONS
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Silver binding may appear metallic and cheap to some
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High string action and neck set issues reported by some users
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Stock Waverley tuners may require upgrading to locking tuners
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Soft case may not be ideal for a high-priced guitar
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin GPC-16E.
Comparisons
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The Yamaha AC5R is mentioned as outperforming the Martin GPC-16E in both sound and handling, offering a more favorable price.
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Martin GPC-16E is closer in size to Taylor's Grand Auditorium, not the Grand Concert as sometimes confused.
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The SC-13E, despite its modern design appeal, is noted for being expensive for a Made-In-Mexico Martin with laminate back and sides, less favored for studio work.
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User experience
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One owner reported truss rod and bridge issues, attributed to poor humidity management early in ownership.
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Short scale guitars like the 000-17 offer softer, quieter tones with less tension, making them easier on the fingers but with reduced power and low end.
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Owners appreciate the Martin "Taylor" body shape for its dreadnought-like sound without muddiness, credited to the waist and cutaway design for improved playability.
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After three weeks of ownership, one user expressed satisfaction with the guitar's sound, highlighting the need for a setup to enhance playability.
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Setup and maintenance
Features and functionality
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The GPC-16E offers both rosewood and mahogany options, impacting tonal qualities; rosewood delivers sparkle and deeper lows, while mahogany offers warmth and midrange presence.
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The GPC-16E's Richlite fretboard and bridge offer a unique feel, with some users preferring traditional wood options like rosewood or ebony for aesthetic and tactile reasons.
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Use cases and applications
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The SC-13E is specifically designed for stage performance, excelling in amplified sound and ease of maintenance on the road, not ideal for home use.
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The 000-17's vintage voice is described as dry, making it a suitable second guitar for a specific tonal palette rather than a main instrument.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
Genre Usage
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