The Martin Custom Shop Sitka Spruce VTS-Wild Grain East Indian Rosewood 14-Fret Auditorium acoustic guitar blends advanced craftsmanship with vintage style, resulting in a visually rich and sonically complex instrument. The auditorium body gives the guitar a comfortable feel for seated and standing players, while the short 24.9" scale supports smooth fretting and articulation. A Sitka spruce VTS top meets wild grain East Indian rosewood back and sides, creating a nuanced voice that responds well to both soft fingerstyle and dynamic strumming. European flame maple binding and abalone inlays add visual detail, making the guitar appealing for players who value both tone and presentation. This instrument suits musicians who want a responsive acoustic with a refined look for stage and studio use.
Sitka Spruce VTS Top Produces Responsive Dynamics
The vintage tone system (VTS) treatment on the Sitka spruce top accelerates the natural aging process, resulting in a more open and lively sound. Scalloped Sitka spruce bracing supports the top, helping it resonate with clarity and sustain. The combination of these features gives the guitar a quick attack and balanced response, which can translate subtle picking into clear projection. Players can expect a voice that reacts to dynamic changes and captures intricate musical detail in every note.
Wild Grain East Indian Rosewood Delivers Rich Overtones
The wild grain East Indian rosewood used for the back and sides offers a complex tonal foundation. This wood type is known for its strong bass and sparkling high frequencies, contributing to a layered sound profile. The visual grain patterns stand out beneath a full-gloss finish, making the guitar as striking to look at as it is to play. This choice of material supports a broad frequency range, giving the instrument depth for open chords and detail for single-note runs.
Ebony Fingerboard and Schaller Tuners Improve Playability
The ebony fingerboard provides a smooth surface for fretting, while the 1-3/4" nut spacing allows clean finger placement. Schaller gold, Grand Tune machines offer stable tuning and precise adjustment, reducing time spent tuning between songs. The auditorium body and modified V neck profile create a natural hand position, helping players move easily across all frets. These details work together to support long playing sessions and technical passages without discomfort.
High-End Construction Supports Long-Term Use
European flame maple binding protects the guitar's edges, while a full-gloss finish seals the body against wear. Modern adhesive and drop-in saddle design streamline repairs and setup. The included hardshell case keeps the guitar safe during travel and storage. Each material is chosen for durability and acoustic performance, ensuring the guitar holds up over years of regular playing and transport.
Playing Experience With the Martin Custom Shop Auditorium Acoustic
Guitarists who want detailed tone and refined build quality will find the auditorium acoustic guitar rewarding in both studio and live environments. Features like VTS-treated spruce and rosewood back provide a dynamic, articulate sound that responds to subtle changes in technique. Stable tuning and comfortable fretting support focused practice and confident performance. This combination helps players capture the full range of their musical ideas with precision and style.