Entry Level Martin

[GrillzVonSizzle]

I’m in a very similar situation as the OP; I’ve been looking at the all Sapele 00010e, but if I could stretch my budget at all, it’s really the 00015m Streetmaster that I’m pining away for. Need...more...money.

[macfawlty]

Originally Posted by sschw

Hi all,

Thinking its time to graduate from the plywood guitar I've been playing. Really want a Martin but don't want to have to sell my car to get one.

Can an all solid wood (no laminate or plastic fingerboard) be had used for under 1300 or so? Looking at the 000 body style.

Would love to hear all input/opinions on the matter.

Thanks!

I have 4 Taylor’s and 4 Martins, plus several others. I’m almost ashamed to say that I play my ($500)Martin 000x1ae more than any other. I’ve had it for 4 years and sold a 000-18GE because I played this one more and can take it anywhere without worrying so much (actually, I traded the 000-18GE for a D-18GE). I do like the 000 size, but most 000 guitars sound too thin and don’t take a flat pick very well if you’re heavy handed, particularly rosewood. This little HPL Martin for whatever reason sounds deep and warm.

But, I’m sure that $1,300 is burning a hole in your pocket and you’re determined to spend it. I always wanted a 000-15. I like the look and the new models give you a variety of different looks. The slotted headstock is pretty cool. So I’d agree with several other rec’s on the 000-15.

[RickRS]

Concerning the 16 series: my 2000 D-16GT fretboard and bridge are NOT Richlite. Fretboard and bridge are rosewood. Back and side are solid mahogany Typical of that year. When Martin changed fretboard is unknown to me but by 2010 Richlite was the norm.

[zoopeda]

Originally Posted by foxo

00015m is the obvious answer. Solid mahogany body and neck, rosewood fretboard. I love mine.

Ditto. Love this guitar. And there’s surprisingly nothing really like it, especially at that price. Play it, if you love it, you’re done looking. If not, get something with a spruce top. (If you can stretch your budget just 100-200$ you could get a used 000-18. Not necessarily “better, but a high value spruce top Martin).

[Lillis]

I just recently bought my 00015SM from Sweetwater for $1300.00 total and that included a humidipak system. Nice thing is you can compare up to 4 on their site and pick the one you like most. I actually called them and told them I was looking for one with the least striping. They gave me a serial number for one that wasn’t displayed. I punched the # into their search bar while I was on the phone with them and instantly bought it. Maybe i’m just fortunate but I can’t imagine finding a better one. Just my 2 cents.

[jcpharm]

OOO-13E $1149
https://www.musiciansfriend.com/guit...lectric-guitar

or

Ovangkol Special OMC Perf Artist $1099 (sale price)
https://www.musiciansfriend.com/guit...lectric-guitar