Sigma (by Martin) DM-18

$522.96 Price Tier: Standard

4.0 (1)

1 Review

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Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 3, 2026.

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Price

$522.96 1 available New

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Average Price: $523

Standard/Professional

$200

$601+

Price Tier

In the Steel-string Acoustic Guitars category, Sigma (by Martin) DM-18 is priced in the upper end of the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Standard

High-end

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Description

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Experience the harmonious blend of tradition and craftsmanship with the Sigma DM-18, an exceptional addition to the world of steel-string acoustic guitars. Proudly carrying the legacy of Martin guitars, the Sigma DM-18 offers a rich, full-bodied sound that resonates with both aspiring musicians and seasoned professionals alike.

Constructed with a solid Sitka spruce top, this guitar ensures a dynamic range and excellent projection, while the mahogany back and sides contribute to its warm tonal character. The dreadnought body shape enhances volume and projection, making it ideal for both strumming and fingerstyle playing. Aesthetically, the guitar features a sleek gloss finish that accentuates its natural beauty and ensures long-lasting durability.

The neck, crafted from mahogany, provides a comfortable grip, allowing for smooth playability across its rosewood fingerboard. Whether you're performing on stage or practicing at home, the Sigma DM-18's precise craftsmanship and attention to detail ensure a delightful playing experience every time.

Key Features:

Solid Sitka spruce top for dynamic range
Mahogany back and sides for warm tonal character
Dreadnought body shape for enhanced volume and projection
Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
Gloss finish for durability and aesthetic appeal
Bone nut and saddle for improved sound quality
Traditional X-bracing for structural integrity and tonal balance

Product specs

Brand	Sigma
Model	Standard Series DM-18
Finish	Natural
Year	2010s
Active Preamp	No
Back Material	Mahogany
Body Shape	Dreadnought
Color Family	Natural, Tan
Fretboard Material	Micarta
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	20
Number of Strings	6-String
Offset Body	Non-Offset Body
Pickup	None
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Sides Material	Mahogany
String Type	Steel
Top Material	Spruce

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the back and sides of the Sigma DM-18?: The Sigma DM-18 features mahogany for both the back and sides, contributing to its warm and resonant tone.
Is the Sigma DM-18 suitable for beginner guitarists?: Yes, the Sigma DM-18 is a great choice for beginners due to its affordable price and high-quality construction, offering an excellent playing experience.
What is the top material of the Sigma DM-18, and how does it affect the sound?: The top of the Sigma DM-18 is made from spruce, which provides a bright and clear tone with excellent projection.
How many frets does the Sigma DM-18 have?: The Sigma DM-18 comes with 20 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and playing styles.
Does the Sigma DM-18 have a built-in pickup or preamp?: No, the Sigma DM-18 does not have a built-in pickup or preamp, making it a purely acoustic guitar ideal for traditional playing styles.

Videos

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Acoustic Union

Martin D-18 sound on a budget. Sigma SDM-18 & DM-18 | Acoustic Union

Acoustic Union

Sigma DM-18 vs Martin D-18 | Cheap vs Expensive | Can YOU hear a difference?

Andrew Clegg Guitar

Sigma DM-18 at The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Sigma Dm-18 Demo

expressmusicstore

Sigma DM-18 Review | Martin's Best Copy? | Vintage Acoustic Guitar | Sigma Korea Guitar 1980's

Andrew Clegg Guitar

Sigma VS Martin | Can YOU hear a difference? | Cheap vs Expensive | Sigma DM18 VS Martin D18 Guitar

Andrew Clegg Guitar

Sigma VS Martin | Can YOU hear a difference? | Cheap vs Expensive |Fingerpicking Acoustic Guitar D18

Andrew Clegg Guitar

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sigma (by Martin) DM-18.

Comparisons

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Several owners compare Japanese-made Sigma guitars favorably to modern Martin guitars produced in Mexico, sometimes considering the Sigmas superior in sound quality.
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The Sigma DM-18 is compared to other notable vintage Japanese brands like Ventura, known for exceptional tone despite laminated back and sides.
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Preference for the vintage Sigma DM-18 over modern Martin DX models due to its perceived superior build and sound quality.
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The Yamaha FG3 is noted for having a lighter build and a sound closer to the Martin D18, making it a strong alternative.
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The Alvarez MD60BG is recommended as an all-solid option with mahogany back and sides and a AAA grade Sitka spruce top.
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Setup and maintenance

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Users frequently use D'Addario phosphor bronze light strings, noting their suitability for the DM-18's tonal qualities, with some opting for D'Addario XS 12s over traditional Elixirs.
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User experience

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Japanese law-suit era guitars like the Sigma DM-18 hold significant sentimental value, with owners expressing reluctance to sell even at high offers.
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Multiple owners appreciate the historical connection to Martin, noting that guitars were sent to Nazareth for final tweaks and acceptance.
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Some owners express concern over ordering guitars like the Sigma SDM-18 without testing them first, preferring to try in-store models.
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Use cases and applications

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Some owners have chosen the Sigma DM-18 as their primary guitar over more expensive models like the Taylor AD-17e, highlighting its playability and sound quality.
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Build quality

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Made in Japan in 1978, featuring a solid mahogany top, providing a unique tonal character compared to other models.
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Some Sigma models, like the SDJM-18, boast an Adirondack spruce top and slope shoulder body, which enhances aesthetic appeal and potentially tonal characteristics.
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