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Average Price: $2,699

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$200

$601+

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Description

The Martin M-38 is a remarkable blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, designed for guitarists who seek a rich, dynamic sound. Developed by one of the most esteemed names in guitar making, this steel-string acoustic guitar is celebrated for its versatility and balanced tonal quality. With a solid Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides, the M-38 delivers a full-bodied resonance that accommodates a wide range of playing styles—from fingerpicking to strumming.

The guitar's unique scalloped bracing pattern enhances its tonal depth and projection, ensuring that every note rings with clarity and precision. Its modified low oval neck shape provides a comfortable grip, making it easier for musicians to transition between chords swiftly. The M-38 also features a high-performance taper, catering to both traditional players and those seeking a modern feel.

Perfect for both stage and studio, the Martin M-38's exceptional sustain makes it a favorite among professional musicians. The guitar's aesthetics are as impressive as its sound, with detailed craftsmanship evident in its binding and inlays. This combination of premium materials and expert design makes the M-38 not only a pleasure to play but also a valuable addition to any musician's collection.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top for rich, resonant sound
  • East Indian rosewood back and sides for balanced tonality
  • Scalloped bracing for enhanced projection
  • Modified low oval neck shape with high-performance taper
  • Exceptional sustain for both stage and studio use
  • Premium craftsmanship with detailed binding and inlays

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model M-38 (0000-38)
Finish Natural
Year 1977 - 1997
Made In United States
Categories OM and Auditorium Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Rosewood
Body Shape 0000/M
Color Family Natural
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Martin M-38
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Sides Material Rosewood
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What is the body shape of the Martin M-38, and how does it affect the sound?

The Martin M-38 features a 0000/M body shape, which provides a balanced tonal response with a rich, full sound. This shape offers a comfortable playing experience and is versatile enough for various playing styles, from fingerpicking to strumming.

What materials are used in the construction of the Martin M-38?

The Martin M-38 is crafted with a spruce top and rosewood back and sides, offering a warm, resonant tone with excellent projection. The neck is made of mahogany, and the fretboard is ebony, providing smooth playability and durability.

Does the Martin M-38 come with a pickup or preamp system?

No, the Martin M-38 does not come with a built-in pickup or preamp system. It is designed as a pure acoustic guitar, ideal for players who prefer the natural sound of the instrument without electronic enhancement.

Is the Martin M-38 suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the Martin M-38 is well-suited for fingerstyle playing due to its balanced tonal qualities and responsive dynamics. The 0000/M body shape and high-quality tonewoods provide clarity and definition, making it a great choice for fingerstyle guitarists.

How many frets does the Martin M-38 have, and what is the neck material?

The Martin M-38 features 20 frets and has a neck made of mahogany. This combination offers a smooth playing experience with easy access to higher frets, suitable for both rhythm and lead playing.

Jeremy Sheppard

Jeremy Sheppard

The Best Martin You Haven't Heard....1983 Martin M-38

Video thumbnail for The Best Martin You Haven't Heard....1983 Martin M-38 by Jeremy Sheppard

The Best Martin You Haven't Heard....1983 Martin M-38

Jeremy Sheppard

Jeremy Sheppard

Video thumbnail for 1979 Martin M-38 by Roadtoast Guitars James Ralston (James Ralston)

1979 Martin M-38

Roadtoast Guitars James Ralston (James Ralston)

Roadtoast Guitars James Ralston (James Ralston)

Video thumbnail for Martin M-38 1980 by Stanley Samuelsen

Martin M-38 1980

Stanley Samuelsen

Stanley Samuelsen

Video thumbnail for Martin M38 Rosewood Spruce 1988 played by Milo Groenhuijzen | Demo @ The Fellowship of Acoustics by TFOA Demos

Martin M38 Rosewood Spruce 1988 played by Milo Groenhuijzen | Demo @ The Fellowship of Acoustics

TFOA Demos

TFOA Demos

Video thumbnail for 【小山!一本解説!】Martin M-38 1980年製 編 by lastguitarcom

【小山!一本解説!】Martin M-38 1980年製 編

lastguitarcom

lastguitarcom

Video thumbnail for 【試奏動画】Martin M-38     [LASTGUITAR] by lastguitarcom

【試奏動画】Martin M-38 [LASTGUITAR]

lastguitarcom

lastguitarcom

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin M-38.

Comparisons

  • The Martin M-38, with its "0000" body, offers dreadnought-like projection and OM balance, making it versatile for varied playing styles.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The M-38 is ideal for those seeking a guitar that excels in both solo and ensemble settings due to its tonal balance and projection.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Despite its discontinuation, the Martin M-38 is still available as custom orders, often seen at specialty shops like Gruhn's and Umanov's.

    Source

Critic Reviews

The Martin M 38 Acoustic Guitar - HubPages

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Laura Marling uses Martin M-38

Laura Marling

Singer, Guitarist

Noah and the Whale

...
Verified via The Current from Minnesota Public Radio

My precious one that I don't take anywhere — in fact I've moved to Los Angeles and I refuse to take it with me on the plane so it's still in London — is a Martin M-38 from the '80s, the year that they were — they stopped allowing guitars to be made in Brazilian rosewood, so it's the last Brazilian rosewood guitar.

See how John Perry uses Martin M-38

John Perry

Guitarist

The Only Ones

...
Verified via Punkglobe

What equipment are you using?

Same white Stratocaster as always.

A Tele. Just got a 1956 Les Paul TV Jnr from Stevie Klasson in Sweden. Love the sound of the P90 pickup. I've also got a reverse Firebird and a 335 which I play open tuned. Marshall amps then I switched to Fenders. A pair of Fender Vibro Kings sound good. Ten inch speakers. Not twelves. Find a good Fender amp that matches the guitar and off you go. I've got a Martin M38 acoustic I've played for 20 years which is a sweetheart; and a 12 string Guild acoustic which records like a dream.

See how Jacques Stotzem uses Martin M-38

Jacques Stotzem

Guitarist

...
Verified

This article confirms that Jacques Stotzem owned a Martin M-38 guitar, stating,

The first was an M-38.

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 M-38, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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