Fusing high-performance design with the rich, wood-forward voice of an all-sapele instrument, the Martin SC-10E Modern Road Series acoustic-electric guitar reimagines what a contemporary acoustic can be. Built around Martin’s innovative asymmetrical SC body and patented Sure Align neck system, it delivers full, heel-less access to every fret while preserving the resonance and projection of a full-scale acoustic. The all-solid sapele construction provides a smooth, balanced response with focused mids and a natural compression that rewards an expressive touch. Specialized Tone Tension X-bracing ensures a clear, articulate voice, while the Low Profile Velocity neck—refined by a Plek’d factory setup—offers a fast, electric-inspired feel. Finished in a sleek satin with understated appointments and Martin E1 electronics, this is a forward-thinking powerhouse built for players who value tone, feel and unrestricted freedom in equal measure.
Performance-First Design and All-Solid Sapele Construction
The SC-10E Modern centers on Martin’s asymmetrical SC body shape—a design engineered to feel compact and balanced while delivering a confident, room-filling voice. This model’s all-solid sapele construction produces a warm and unified tonal response, characterized by a rich midrange presence, controlled lows and a smooth high end. Martin’s specialized Tone Tension X-bracing—scalloped on the treble side and reinforced with non-scalloped tone bars—maximizes clarity and projection while preserving the natural compression inherent to sapele. The result is a focused, even-tempered sound that excels at everything from intricate fingerstyle to aggressive chord work, all contained within a modern, player-forward design.
Low Profile Velocity Neck With Sure Align System for Fast, Confident Playability
Martin’s patented Sure Align neck system defines the playing experience of the SC-10E Modern, shifting the neck joint to the 13th fret and reshaping the heel to remove the physical barriers that traditionally limit upper-fret access on an acoustic guitar. This design allows effortless movement up the fingerboard, making extended chord voicings, melodic runs and lead work feel natural and unrestricted. The Low Profile Velocity neck delivers a fast, sleek response that will feel instantly familiar to electric players, while the high-performance taper and comfortable 1.75" nut width keep the feel precise and controlled across the entire scale. Together, the neck geometry and fingerboard layout create a modern playing surface built for speed, accuracy and expressive freedom.
Martin E1 Electronics for Clear, Reliable Amplified Tone
The SC-10E Modern is equipped with Martin’s E1 electronics system, designed to faithfully translate the guitar’s warm acoustic character in live and studio settings. The system delivers clean, natural amplification with intuitive onboard controls for volume and tone, allowing quick adjustments without interrupting your performance. A built-in tuner provides instant reference on stage or during rehearsal, keeping your setup streamlined and efficient. Whether plugged into a PA, interface or acoustic amp, the E1 system ensures consistent, dependable performance wherever you play.
Understated Modern Appointments With a Purpose-Driven Aesthetic
The SC-10E Modern’s visual design mirrors its tonal philosophy—clean, focused and intentional. A satin-finished body highlights the natural character of the sapele while keeping the look understated and professional. Diamond-and-square fingerboard inlays add a subtle nod to Martin tradition, while minimal binding and streamlined hardware reinforce the guitar’s modern identity. Faux tortoiseshell accents, a simple rosette and enclosed-gear tuners round out an aesthetic that prioritizes durability and function over flash, making this a guitar that feels at home on stage, in the studio or on the road.
A Modern Acoustic Built Around Feel, Freedom and Warmth
The Martin SC-10E Modern Road Series acoustic-electric guitar offers a distinct take on Martin’s most forward-thinking acoustic design, pairing innovative construction with a warm, balanced all-sapele voice. It’s a guitar built for players who value smooth response, expressive dynamics and unrestricted access across the neck—without sacrificing acoustic authority. Complete with a soft case, the SC-10E Modern delivers a modern playing experience rooted in comfort, control and tonal depth, ready to support you wherever your music takes you next.