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Average Price: $2,000

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Experience the harmonious blend of tradition and modern technology with the Martin Standard Series OMC-18E. This acoustic-electric guitar is a testament to Martin's storied craftsmanship, offering musicians a versatile instrument fit for both intimate acoustic settings and amplified performances. The OMC-18E features a comfortable, Orchestra Model body shape with a cutaway, providing easy access to higher frets while delivering a balanced tonal range that suits a wide array of musical genres.

Crafted from premium materials, the OMC-18E boasts a solid Sitka spruce top paired with genuine mahogany back and sides, producing a rich, resonant sound with clear articulation. The high-performance neck taper ensures smooth playability, making it a favorite among fingerstyle players and strummers alike. Equipped with the innovative Fishman Aura VT Enhance electronics, this guitar offers natural-sounding amplification, preserving the authenticity of its acoustic tone.

Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Martin OMC-18E provides reliability and sonic excellence. Its elegant design is complemented by classic appointments, including a faux tortoise pickguard and old-style script logo, making it as visually striking as it is melodically inspiring.

Key Features:

  • Orchestra Model body with cutaway design
  • Solid Sitka spruce top
  • Genuine mahogany back and sides
  • High-performance neck taper
  • Fishman Aura VT Enhance electronics
  • Faux tortoise pickguard
  • Old-style Martin script logo

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model OMC-18E
Year 2016 - 2019
Made In United States
Categories Acoustic-Electric Guitars, OM and Auditorium Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Orchestra
Color Family Brown, Natural, Orange
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Martin OM-18
Model Sub-Family Martin OM-18E
Neck Material Mahogany
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
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What kind of wood is used in the construction of the Martin Standard Series OMC-18E?

The Martin OMC-18E features a spruce top with mahogany back and sides, offering a warm and balanced tone that is ideal for various playing styles.

Is the Martin OMC-18E suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Martin OMC-18E is equipped with a hybrid system and an undersaddle piezo pickup, making it well-suited for amplified live performances.

How would you describe the neck profile of the Martin OMC-18E?

The Martin OMC-18E has a mahogany neck with a comfortable profile that facilitates smooth playability, suitable for both fingerstyle and strumming.

What is the body shape of the Martin OMC-18E, and how does it affect sound?

The Martin OMC-18E has an orchestra body shape, providing a balanced sound with clear articulation, ideal for both solo performances and ensemble settings.

Does the Martin OMC-18E come with a preamp for sound shaping?

Yes, the Martin OMC-18E includes an active preamp, allowing for enhanced sound control and shaping when plugged into an amplifier or PA system.

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Martin Standard Series OMC-18E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Video thumbnail for Martin Standard Series OMC-18E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar by Musician's Friend

Martin Standard Series OMC-18E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for 2016 Martin OMC-18E (Cutaway & Electronics) by Acoustic Letter

2016 Martin OMC-18E (Cutaway & Electronics)

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

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

The Martin OMC-18E at MaurysMusic.com

Maury's Music

Maury's Music

Video thumbnail for Martin OMC-18E vs OMC-28E vs OMC-35E at MaurysMusic.com by Maury's Music

Martin OMC-18E vs OMC-28E vs OMC-35E at MaurysMusic.com

Maury's Music

Maury's Music

Video thumbnail for At the Martin factory trying out martin and being delighted, martin OMC-18E by Tristan McCoppin

At the Martin factory trying out martin and being delighted, martin OMC-18E

Tristan McCoppin

Tristan McCoppin

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • The Martin OMC-18E is often compared to the 000-28, with some owners noting minimal tonal differences despite the price disparity.

    Source
  • The Alvarez MD60 BG is noted for its sound quality and affordability, often compared favorably to Martin guitars.

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  • The 000-18 modern deluxe is highlighted for its lightness and resonance, though some dislike the gold fret wire and tuners.

    Source
  • The 000-18's short scale length is favored for its playability and comfort over the OM's longer scale, despite both sharing the same body shape.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the Martin OMC-18E appreciate its versatility for fingerstyle, praising its response to light playing and overall comfort.

    Source
  • Some players with shoulder issues prefer smaller models like the 00-18 due to comfort and ease of handling.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The OMC-18E's smaller OM/000 body size is favored by fingerstyle players for its balance and definition, avoiding the boomy bass of larger dreadnoughts.

    Source
  • SC Series Martin guitars have an innovative neck joint that simplifies neck resets, potentially saving on maintenance costs.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some users suggest opting for used models of higher-end Martins like the D-28 for similar pricing, emphasizing the potential for finding pristine used options.

    Source

Build quality

  • Binding separation is a frequent issue, particularly around the waist; repairs typically cost around $30.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Factory action height can be high, with reports of 3.75mm at the 12th fret; setup adjustments may be necessary.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users recommend the installation of K&K mini pickups for enhanced sound quality without relying on batteries.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • HPL back and sides on lower-end Martins are durable for busking and open mic settings, despite not being ideal for studio recording.

    Source
  • The 000-18 is praised for its comfort and versatility, being suitable for both fingerstyle and occasional strumming, making it a great all-rounder.

    Source

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