The Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Adirondack Spruce-Mahogany Auditorium Acoustic-Electric Guitar combines old-style construction with modern acoustic technology for players who demand clarity and projection. This auditorium model uses an Adirondack spruce top and mahogany back and sides, creating a punchy, focused response that suits detailed fingerwork and intricate picking. The modified low oval neck profile fits comfortably in hand, while the L.R. Baggs Anthem system enables simple stage amplification with natural tone. Ebony fingerboard and abalone inlays provide subtle visual cues for navigation. With a dovetail neck joint and 000 body, this acoustic-electric guitar offers a responsive feel for dynamic solo performance or recording. The hard case lets you travel with peace of mind.
Adirondack Spruce Top and X-Bracing Increase Projection
The top uses Adirondack spruce paired with a traditional X-bracing pattern for power and articulation. Spruce responds quickly to changes in picking strength, while the bracing keeps the top stable and focused. This setup creates strong volume and a crisp attack that helps individual notes ring out, even in busy arrangements. The benefit is a direct, lively sound that cuts through in solo or ensemble settings.
Mahogany Back and Sides Shape Warm, Defined Tone
Mahogany on the back and sides gives the guitar a rich, mid-focused sound with clean bass. The gloss finish preserves the wood and adds depth to the grain. Players notice clear separation between notes, which helps complex fingerstyle passages sound defined and balanced. The end result is a warm, dry response that supports expressive playing without getting lost in the mix.
L.R. Baggs Anthem Electronics Simplify Amplification
The onboard L.R. Baggs Anthem system combines microphone and undersaddle pickup for natural amplified sound. Controls are easy to access, so adjusting volume or blending between mic and pickup happens quickly. Grover nickel tuners keep strings stable during performance, while the bone nut and saddle maintain accurate intonation. This electronics setup means reliable amplification with minimal setup, so players can focus on their music.
Careful Construction Extends Instrument Life
Built with a dovetail neck joint, select hardwoods, and a gloss finish, this auditorium guitar handles years of use. The bone nut and saddle resist wear and keep tuning steady. The ebony fingerboard stays smooth even after long practice sessions. With a solid case included, the instrument travels safely for gigs or studio work.
Player Experience With the Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Auditorium Guitar
This auditorium acoustic-electric suits players who value strong projection and clean articulation in a compact body. The spruce and mahogany pairing delivers a punchy, quick sound for focused solo work or recording. The L.R. Baggs Anthem electronics and stable hardware create a setup that stays reliable night after night, helping musicians deliver precise performances every time.