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Average Price: $1,917

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$200

$1001+

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Description

The Martin Standard Series GP-18E is where tradition meets innovation, offering musicians a harmonious blend of classic craftsmanship and modern technology. This acoustic-electric guitar is part of Martin's esteemed Standard Series, known for its superior quality and tonal excellence. The GP-18E features a Grand Performance body shape, making it versatile for both strumming and fingerstyle playing, delivering a balanced tone with clear projection. Its solid Sitka spruce top and genuine mahogany back and sides contribute to a warm, resonant sound that Martin guitars are celebrated for.

Equipped with the Fishman Matrix VT Enhance electronics, the GP-18E ensures your sound is captured with precision and clarity, whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio. The high-performance taper neck and sleek ebony fingerboard offer a comfortable playing experience, ideal for extended sessions. With a scalloped X-bracing pattern, the guitar maximizes resonance and sustain, providing a dynamic range that suits various musical styles.

Key Features:

  • Grand Performance body shape for versatile playability
  • Solid Sitka spruce top and genuine mahogany back and sides
  • Fishman Matrix VT Enhance electronics for precise sound capture
  • High-performance taper neck with ebony fingerboard
  • Scalloped X-bracing for enhanced resonance and sustain
  • Part of Martin's renowned Standard Series

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model Standard Series GP-18E with Fishman Electronics, Standard Series GP-18E with LR Baggs Electronics
Year 2018 - 2019
Made In United States
Categories Acoustic-Electric Guitars, OM and Auditorium Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Auditorium
Color Family Natural
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Martin GP-18
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Hybrid System, Undersaddle Piezo Pickup
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin Standard Series
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the construction of the Martin Standard Series GP-18E?

The Martin Standard Series GP-18E features a spruce top with mahogany back and sides, providing a balanced tone with clear highs and warm lows.

Does the Martin Standard Series GP-18E come with built-in electronics for amplification?

Yes, the Martin Standard Series GP-18E is equipped with either Fishman or LR Baggs electronics, offering versatile amplification options for live performances.

Is the Martin Standard Series GP-18E suitable for fingerstyle playing?

The GP-18E's auditorium body shape and balanced tone make it an excellent choice for fingerstyle guitarists, offering clarity and articulation across the fretboard.

How many frets does the Martin Standard Series GP-18E have?

The Martin Standard Series GP-18E has 20 frets, providing ample range for both rhythm and lead playing.

What is the neck profile of the Martin Standard Series GP-18E?

The Martin Standard Series GP-18E features a high-performance neck taper, offering comfortable playability for both strumming and intricate fingerwork.

Peghead Nation

Peghead Nation

Martin GP-18E Demo from Peghead Nation

Video thumbnail for Martin GP-18E Demo from Peghead Nation by Peghead Nation

Martin GP-18E Demo from Peghead Nation

Peghead Nation

Peghead Nation

Video thumbnail for The Martin GP-18E at MaurysMusic.com by Maury's Music

The Martin GP-18E at MaurysMusic.com

Maury's Music

Maury's Music

Video thumbnail for Martin GP 18E by Jon is just TOO LouD!!

Martin GP 18E

Jon is just TOO LouD!!

Jon is just TOO LouD!!

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin Standard Series GP-18E.

Comparisons

  • The 000-17 has a drier, less bassy, and more midrangy tone compared to the 000-18, which is more well-balanced and versatile across music styles.

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  • Alternatives to the 000-18, such as Furch and Larrivee OM models, offer similar playability and sound quality at a lower price point.

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  • The D-28 is noted for richer, deeper tones suitable for chords and vocals, while the D-18's brighter sound with higher mids cuts through band mixes better.

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  • The D-28 is considered a better rhythm instrument with lush, full chords and good overtones, while the D-18 is punchier and preferred for flatpicking.

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  • Vintage D-28s are noted for a different tonal character than modern ones, with some owners preferring the vintage sound.

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  • The HD-28 is described as lush but lacking volume and cut for live acoustic jamming compared to a D-18.

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Build quality

  • The 18 series uses classic Martin X-bracing and a hand-fit dovetail, enhancing its longevity and stability compared to the 17 series' more modern construction.

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User experience

  • Owners report that the 18 series guitars, like the GP-18E, are foundational instruments with enduring appeal and superior sound quality over time.

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  • One user reported satisfaction with a D-16GT over 14 years, emphasizing the clarity of mahogany compared to their rosewood guitars.

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  • A user who owned both a D-18 and a D-28 noted that personal mood often dictated preference, with the D-18 being favored in a house fire scenario.

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Features and functionality

  • The 17 series Martins have moved away from A-frame bracing since 2016, adopting the same standard X-bracing as the 18 series, improving their strength and durability.

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  • The Fishman Matrix Infinity Mic Blend pickup is recommended for its ability to closely replicate the acoustic tone when plugged in, costing around $300 plus installation.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Users highlight the K&K Trinity system as an excellent option for capturing the true sound of a guitar, particularly for those who play live.

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Value and pricing

  • The cost difference between standard and modern deluxe models is approximately $1400, prompting some to consider adding aftermarket electronics instead.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The D-28's sound can become muddy in humid conditions but improves with a maintained humidity level of 40-60%.

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