Martin Acoustic Guitar

How to choose the best martin acoustic guitar

An acoustic guitar is a musical instrument which produces sound using strings plucked by the player’s fingers. In contrast to electric guitars acoustic guitars produce no electrical current; rather the vibration of the string causes air pressure waves inside the body of the guitar resulting in audible sounds. Acoustic guitars are typically played with a nylon-stringed plectrum (pick) held between the thumb and index finger of the right hand. Some players use a steel barre chord while others play with a metal fretboard.

The History Of The Electric Guitar

Electric guitars began being manufactured during the 1920s. At the time there was a growing interest in music among young adults who wanted to be able to listen to popular songs without disturbing their neighbors. As a result manufacturers started producing electric guitars because they could be plugged into amplifiers and powered speakers. However these early models did not provide enough volume to compete with the loudness of amplified instruments such as pianos and organs. To solve this problem engineers developed electronic amplification systems that allowed electric guitars to become louder than traditional acoustic instruments.

Acoustic guitars are generally quieter than electric guitars. Because of this many musicians believe that acoustic guitars are superior to electric guitars. While both types of instruments produce sound acoustic guitars are considered to be “cleaner” sounding. This is due to the fact that the vibrations produced by acoustic guitars travel only along the length of the strings whereas those produced by electric guitars travel throughout the entire body of the instrument.

Benefits Of Playing An Acoustic Guitar

Playing an acoustic guitar has several benefits. First playing an acoustic guitar requires less physical strength than playing an electric guitar. Second acoustic guitars require fewer adjustments than electric guitars. Third acoustic guitars allow the musician to concentrate on his/her performance. Fourth acoustic guitars are easier to tune than electric guitars. Fifth acoustic guitars are cheaper than electric guitars. Sixth acoustic guitars are lighter than electric guitars. Seventh acoustic guitars are smaller than electric guitars. Eighth acoustic guitars are portable.

Acoustic guitars are instruments which produce sound using strings plucked by the player. There are many different types of acoustic guitars available today ranging from classical to jazz. However there are only two main categories of acoustic guitars – electric and acoustic. Electric guitars are played with amplification while acoustic guitars are played without amplification. In addition acoustic guitars are generally smaller than electric guitars.

There are several factors to take into consideration when choosing an acoustic guitar. First you must decide whether you wish to play solo or perform with others. Soloists typically play alone whereas performers play with others. Second you must determine whether you wish to learn to play the instrument or already be able to play. Third you must select between nylon-stringed and steel-stringed guitars. Nylon stringed guitars are easier to tune and maintain than steel-strings. Fourth you must decide whether you wish to invest in a beginner’s acoustic guitar or an intermediate/advanced acoustic guitar. Beginner’s guitars are cheaper than intermediate/advanced models. Fifth you must decide whether you wish to purchase a pre-owned or brand new acoustic guitar. Pre-owned guitars are cheaper than brand new ones. Sixth you must decide whether you wish to purchase a budget acoustic guitar or a high end acoustic guitar. Budget guitars are cheaper than high end guitars. Seventh you must decide whether you wish to purchase a traditional style acoustic guitar or a modern design acoustic guitar. Traditional style guitars are simpler and more affordable than modern designs. Eighth you must decide whether you wish to purchase a solid body or hollow body acoustic guitar. Hollow bodies are lighter and thinner than solid bodies. Ninth you must decide whether you wish to purchase a dreadnought or concert sized acoustic guitar. Dreadnoughts are wider and deeper than concerts. Tenth you must decide whether you wish to purchase a flat top or archtop acoustic guitar. Flat tops are narrower and shorter than archedtops.

The Martin acoustics are known for being among the best sounding instruments ever created. The sound quality has been improved since the introduction of the Martin D-18 back in the early 1950’s. Today there are many different models available ranging from beginner level to professional grade. There are several features to look for when choosing a Martin acoustic guitar.

Body Wood – Most acoustic guitars today are constructed using solid spruce tops and mahogany backs and sides. Mahogany is considered the finest tonewood because of its rich tone and resonance. Solid Spruce is another popular choice due to its light weight and high strength. Maple is also very common and produces a warm mellow tone. Rosewood is another option which gives a bright resonant tone.

Top Construction – Top construction refers to the way the top is attached to the body. Some guitars have glued together pieces of wood while others are strung directly onto the neck. Glued together pieces produce a stronger instrument. Strings are typically glued to the fingerboard and bridge.

Neck Shape – Neck shape refers to the contour of the neck. Flat necks are easier to play and provide a wider range of notes. Curved necks allow for greater flexibility and ease of playing.

Fingerboards – Fingerboards are the part of the guitar where strings are anchored. They are generally made of ebony or rosewood. Ebony is harder and heavier than rosewood. Both materials give a brighter tone.

Tuners – Tuners are devices that raise or lower the pitch of the string. They are found on both electric and acoustic guitars. Electric tuners are mounted on the headstock and adjust the tension of each string individually. Acoustic tuners are located on the side of the guitar near the nut.

Pickups – Pickup refers to the type of pickup used to amplify the sound produced by the strings. Single coil pickups are the most common. Double coils and humbuckers are also options.

Martin Guitar Company has been making fine instruments since 1833. The company was founded by German immigrant John D’Angelico who came to America in 1790. He started his business in New York City where he sold musical instruments and eventually moved to Nashville Tennessee. In 1833 he opened a shop in Manhattan where he began selling high quality instruments. His son William J. Martin took over the business in 1858 and expanded into manufacturing electric guitars. Today the company continues to produce fine instruments including acoustic guitars basses mandolins banjos ukuleles and resonators.

Types of Martin Acoustic Guitars

There are many different models available from Martin Guitar Company.

Acoustic Electric – This type of instrument combines the best qualities of both acoustic and electric guitars. It features a solid body construction which gives it a warm tone and sustain. It comes equipped with a built-in amplifier and speaker.

Electric Acoustic – This type of instrument uses a hollow body design which makes it lighter and easier to play. It produces a bright sound due to its open back cavity.

Resonator – This type of instrument is designed to be played using a bow. It is very light weight and easy to carry around.

Flamenco – This type of instrument is designed specifically for playing flamenco music. It has a distinctive shape and a long neck.

Bass – This type of instrument is designed to be played standing upright. It is typically smaller than a regular guitar and has a deeper tonal range.

The History of Martin Guitars

In 1833 John D’Angelico established himself as a musician in New York City. He soon became known for his skill as a luthier (maker of stringed instruments).