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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
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What type of wood is used in the construction of the Martin Standard Series GP-18E?
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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.
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Does the Martin Standard Series GP-18E come with built-in electronics for amplification?
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Yes, the Martin Standard Series GP-18E is equipped with either Fishman or LR Baggs electronics, offering versatile amplification options for live performances.
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Is the Martin Standard Series GP-18E suitable for fingerstyle playing?
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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.
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How many frets does the Martin Standard Series GP-18E have?
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The Martin Standard Series GP-18E has 20 frets, providing ample range for both rhythm and lead playing.
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What is the neck profile of the Martin Standard Series GP-18E?
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The Martin Standard Series GP-18E features a high-performance neck taper, offering comfortable playability for both strumming and intricate fingerwork.
Videos
Peghead Nation
Martin GP-18E Demo from Peghead Nation
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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The cost difference between standard and modern deluxe models is approximately $1400, prompting some to consider adding aftermarket electronics instead.
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