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Average Price: $871

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$1001+

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Description

The Martin Guitars DC16GTE is where timeless craftsmanship meets modern innovation, making it an essential addition for any guitarist seeking versatility and rich sound. This acoustic-electric guitar combines the classic depth and projection of a dreadnought body with the effortless playability of a cutaway design, allowing you to explore the entire fretboard with ease. Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top, it sings with clear, resonant tones, perfectly balanced by the solid sapele back and sides that offer a warm, full-bodied sound.

What truly sets the DC16GTE apart is its Roland AP-1 electronics, which capture every nuance of your performance with exceptional clarity, whether you're in the studio or on stage. The hybrid "X" scalloped bracing enhances the guitar's dynamic range, offering a responsive playing experience. Expertly finished with a polished gloss top and satin back and sides, this instrument exudes elegance while its black boltaron binding adds a sleek contrast.

Join a community of musicians who value quality and performance. Whether you're a seasoned performer or an aspiring artist, the Martin DC16GTE promises an inspiring musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Body Size: D-14 fret cutaway
  • Top: Solid Sitka spruce
  • Back & Sides: Solid sapele
  • Neck Shape: Modified low oval
  • Fingerboard Material: Black richlite
  • Electronics: Roland AP-1
  • Scale Length: 25.4"
  • Nut Material: White corian
  • Tuning Machines: Chrome enclosed with large buttons
  • Case: 345 Hardshell case included

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model DC-16GTE
Finish Natural
Year 1999 - 2015
Made In United States
Categories Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Back Material Sapele
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Natural
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Composite
Model Family Martin D-16
Model Sub-Family Martin D-16E
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Undersaddle Piezo Pickup
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin 16 / 17 Series
Sides Material Sapele
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the back and sides of the Martin DC-16GTE?

The Martin DC-16GTE features sapele wood for both the back and sides, which is known for producing a warm and balanced tone with good projection.

Does the Martin DC-16GTE come with an active preamp?

Yes, the Martin DC-16GTE is equipped with an active preamp, allowing for amplified performance with greater control over your sound.

What is the body shape of the Martin DC-16GTE, and how does it affect the sound?

The Martin DC-16GTE has a dreadnought body shape, which provides a robust and powerful sound with strong bass response, making it suitable for a variety of musical styles.

Is the Martin DC-16GTE suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Martin DC-16GTE is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its undersaddle piezo pickup and active preamp, which offer reliable amplification and sound control.

How many frets does the Martin DC-16GTE have?

The Martin DC-16GTE comes with 20 frets, providing a range suitable for most playing styles, from rhythm to lead.

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

TFOA review - Martin DC16 GTE

Video thumbnail for TFOA review -  Martin DC16 GTE by The Fellowship of Acoustics

TFOA review - Martin DC16 GTE

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for Martin DC-16gte Acoustic Guitar Sound Sample by Joeymusic

Martin DC-16gte Acoustic Guitar Sound Sample

Joeymusic

Joeymusic

Reviews

PROS

  • Consistent perfect tuning even after string changes

  • Warm, mellow sound ideal for fingerpicking

  • Balanced tone, not overly bass-heavy

  • Fast neck allows easy complex chord fingerings

  • Adjustable mic enhances sound versatility

  • Durable, ages beautifully over time

  • Built-in tuner remains reliable after years

  • Versatile for both rhythm and lead playing

  • Holds up well over decades of use

  • Resonates against the body for a full sound experience

CONS

  • Side wood splitting reported in humid environments

  • Pickup quality considered subpar for some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin Guitars DC16GTE.

Setup and maintenance

  • The back separation from the neck block is a critical issue that can render the guitar unplayable if not repaired.

    Source
  • Removal of the under saddle pickup might involve a perforated top, but typically only requires a hole for the pickup lead.

    Source
  • Proper removal of a pickup generally involves replacing the saddle with a taller one to compensate for lost height, and adjusting the endpin jack.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Fishman pickup, which was removed for repairs, is a notable feature of this model.

    Source
  • The DC-16RE variant sometimes includes a "Schertler Bluestick under saddle pick-up," unlike other models.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners with repair skills find this model valuable despite structural issues, highlighting the importance of maintenance capabilities.

    Source
  • A user compared the D-15M's sound to a mix of Martin’s clarity with Gibson's warmth, indicating a unique tonal blend appealing to different musical styles.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • European scarcity can affect pricing, making it hard to compare directly with U.S. prices; this model is one of only 217 produced.

    Source
  • A 20-year-old Martin DC16GTE in Europe was acquired for €1,200, considered a good deal for an all-solid wood American Martin.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Martin DC16GTE was initially thought of as a "bridge guitar" before an upgrade to models like the D-18 or D-28, but owners often find it hard to part with.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • In bluegrass settings, the Martin D-15M's lower volume helps prevent escalation of band volume, proving beneficial in maintaining balance during performances.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Cody Johnson uses Martin Guitars DC16GTE

Cody Johnson

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Most of codys music videos feature this guitar! It seems to be the one he started his career with.

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