The Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Grand Performance Acoustic-Electric Guitar stands out for its bold white finish and rare pale moon ebony fingerboard. This grand performance model features mahogany back and sides paired with a Sitka spruce top, producing a balanced tone that responds well in both solo and group settings. The L.R. Baggs Anthem pickup system delivers studio-quality sound for live shows or recording at home. Gold vintage-style tuners add a refined look and hold tuning well through long sessions. Designed for those who want a visually unique instrument that projects clearly and feels smooth under the fingers, this guitar supports expressive playing and precise technical runs.
L.R. Baggs Anthem Pickup Captures Detailed Acoustic Sound
The L.R. Baggs Anthem system blends a microphone and undersaddle pickup to deliver a natural voice. It senses vibrations from the Sitka spruce top and mahogany body, then mixes those with the mic signal to produce a balanced output. Players can connect the instrument to an amplifier or mixing board for direct recording. The result is consistent, full-spectrum sound with low feedback on stage, making every note clear and strong in the mix.
Pale Moon Ebony Fingerboard Supports Fast, Precise Fretting
This model uses pale moon ebony for the fingerboard. The wood’s smooth surface and unique grain reduce friction during slides and bends. Traditional Old Style 18 inlays help mark positions while keeping the look understated. With 20 frets and a modified low oval neck, the layout suits technical runs and fingerstyle passages. The 1-3/4" nut width gives room for clean chord shapes and single note lines without crowding.
Control Layout and Grand Performance Body Enhance Usability
The grand performance body size produces balanced projection and comfortable playability. The scalloped X-bracing shapes the top for strong attack and smooth sustain. Tuning machines with gold vintage buttons adjust quickly and hold pitch, even during repeated retuning. Onboard L.R. Baggs controls sit inside the soundhole for discreet access, so players can adjust levels without disrupting performance.
Gloss Finish and Mahogany Construction Build Longevity
This acoustic-electric features gloss white on the top and gloss on the mahogany back and sides, protecting the wood against scratches and humidity. Select hardwood for the neck adds strength, and a dovetail joint anchors the structure. Black ebony binding and heelcap resist wear over time. The saddle and nut are made from bone, maintaining tuning stability and clear intonation through heavy use.
Player Experience With the Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Grand Performance Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Musicians seeking a guitar with clear projection, a fast fingerboard, and reliable electronics will appreciate this model’s unique build. The combination of pale moon ebony, balanced mahogany tone, and L.R. Baggs Anthem pickup helps performers deliver precise sound on stage and in the studio. With stable tuning and a visually striking finish, players can enjoy confident, expressive sessions every time they pick up the instrument.