When it comes to nylon string guitars, Martin is a name that stands above the rest. With a rich history and a reputation for quality, Martin nylon string guitars are the perfect choice for players of all levels.
Editor’s Note:We’ve done the research and put together this guide to help you choose the right Martin nylon string guitar for your needs.
We’ve analyzed the different models, compared their features, and read reviews from other players. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’re confident that you’ll find the perfect Martin nylon string guitar for your playing style.
Key Differences:
| Feature | Model A | Model B | Model C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body | Dreadnought | Grand Auditorium | Concert |
| Top | Solid spruce | Laminate spruce | Solid mahogany |
| Back and sides | Solid mahogany | Laminate mahogany | Solid rosewood |
| Neck | Mahogany | Sapele | Rosewood |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Rosewood | Ebony |
| Price | $1,000 | $1,500 | $2,000 |
Main Article Topics:
- The history of Martin nylon string guitars
- The different models of Martin nylon string guitars
- The features of Martin nylon string guitars
- The benefits of Martin nylon string guitars
- How to choose the right Martin nylon string guitar for you
1. Construction
The construction of a Martin nylon string guitar is one of the most important factors that contributes to its sound and playability. The solid spruce top provides a bright, clear sound with plenty of volume and projection. The mahogany back and sides add warmth and depth to the sound, and they also help to project the sound more effectively. This combination of woods gives Martin nylon string guitars a balanced sound that is ideal for a variety of playing styles.
The construction of a Martin nylon string guitar also affects its playability. The solid spruce top is very responsive to the player’s touch, and it produces a clear, articulate sound. The mahogany neck and fretboard are very comfortable to play, and they provide a smooth, fast playing experience.
The construction of a Martin nylon string guitar is a key factor that contributes to its overall quality. The solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and comfortable neck and fretboard all work together to create a guitar that is both beautiful and a joy to play.
Here are some examples of how the construction of a Martin nylon string guitar affects its sound and playability:
- The solid spruce top provides a bright, clear sound with plenty of volume and projection. This makes Martin nylon string guitars ideal for playing in a variety of settings, from small intimate gatherings to large concert halls.
- The mahogany back and sides add warmth and depth to the sound. This makes Martin nylon string guitars ideal for playing a variety of musical styles, from classical to flamenco to jazz.
- The comfortable neck and fretboard make Martin nylon string guitars easy to play. This makes them ideal for players of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
Overall, the construction of a Martin nylon string guitar is a key factor that contributes to its overall quality. The solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and comfortable neck and fretboard all work together to create a guitar that is both beautiful and a joy to play.
Table: Key Construction Features of Martin Nylon String Guitars
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Solid spruce top | Provides a bright, clear sound with plenty of volume and projection |
| Mahogany back and sides | Adds warmth and depth to the sound |
| Comfortable neck and fretboard | Makes the guitar easy to play |
2. Neck
The neck of a guitar is one of the most important factors that contributes to its playability. The neck of a Martin nylon string guitar is typically made of mahogany or Spanish cedar. These woods are known for their strength and stability, which makes them ideal for use in a guitar neck. They also provide a comfortable playing experience, which is important for players of all levels.
- Strength and stability: Mahogany and Spanish cedar are both very strong and stable woods, which makes them ideal for use in a guitar neck. This is important because the neck of a guitar is subjected to a lot of stress and strain, and it needs to be able to withstand this without warping or breaking.
- Comfortable playing experience: Mahogany and Spanish cedar are also very comfortable woods to play on. They have a smooth, satin-like finish that is easy on the hands, and they are not as likely to cause fatigue as some other woods. This is important for players who spend a lot of time playing guitar, as it can help to prevent discomfort and pain.
- Tonal qualities: Mahogany and Spanish cedar both have a warm, rich sound that is well-suited for nylon string guitars. They add depth and complexity to the sound of the guitar, and they help to create a beautiful, resonant tone.
- Examples: Martin’s 000-16NYE Nylon String Acoustic-Electric Guitar and the Martin Road Series DRS1 Nylon String Acoustic Guitar are two examples of guitars with necks made of mahogany. The Cordoba C5-CE Nylon String Acoustic-Electric Guitar and the Yamaha NTX700R Nylon String Acoustic-Electric Guitar are two examples of guitars with necks made of Spanish cedar.
Overall, the neck of a Martin nylon string guitar is a key factor that contributes to its playability, sound, and overall quality. The use of mahogany or Spanish cedar in the neck provides strength, stability, comfort, and a beautiful, resonant tone.
3. Fretboard
The fretboard is a crucial component of any guitar, and the choice of wood used for the fretboard can have a significant impact on the sound and playability of the instrument. Martin nylon string guitars typically feature fretboards made of ebony or rosewood, two woods that are known for their durability and their ability to produce a clear, bright sound.
Ebony is a very hard and dense wood, which makes it very durable and resistant to wear and tear. It also has a very smooth surface, w
hich makes it easy to play and helps to reduce finger noise. Ebony is also known for its ability to produce a bright, clear sound with plenty of sustain.
Rosewood is another very hard and dense wood, but it is slightly less dense than ebony. This makes it a little bit softer and easier to play, but it is still very durable. Rosewood is also known for its warm, rich sound with plenty of sustain.
The choice of whether to use ebony or rosewood for the fretboard of a Martin nylon string guitar is ultimately a matter of personal preference. However, both woods are excellent choices that will provide years of enjoyment.
Here are some examples of Martin nylon string guitars with ebony or rosewood fretboards:
- Martin 000-16NYE Nylon String Acoustic-Electric Guitar (ebony fretboard)
- Martin Road Series DRS1 Nylon String Acoustic Guitar (rosewood fretboard)
- Martin LX1E Little Martin Nylon String Acoustic-Electric Guitar (ebony fretboard)
- Martin GPC-13E Nylon String Acoustic-Electric Guitar (rosewood fretboard)
Table: Comparison of Ebony and Rosewood Fretboards
| Characteristic | Ebony | Rosewood |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | Very hard | Hard |
| Density | Very dense | Dense |
| Durability | Very durable | Durable |
| Playability | Easy to play | Easy to play |
| Sound | Bright, clear | Warm, rich |
4. Strings
The type of strings used on a guitar can have a significant impact on the sound and playability of the instrument. Martin nylon string guitars are typically strung with nylon strings, which are known for their warm, mellow sound and their low tension. This makes them a popular choice for classical guitarists, flamenco players, and fingerstyle guitarists.
Nylon strings are made from a synthetic material called polyamide. They are softer and more flexible than steel strings, which gives them a warmer, mellower sound. Nylon strings also have a lower tension than steel strings, which makes them easier to play. This is especially beneficial for beginners, as it can help to reduce finger pain and fatigue.
In addition to their warm sound and low tension, nylon strings are also very durable. They are less likely to break than steel strings, and they can last for many years with proper care.
Here are some of the benefits of using nylon strings on a Martin nylon string guitar:
- Warm, mellow sound
- Low tension, which makes them easy to play
- Durable and long-lasting
If you are looking for a guitar with a warm, mellow sound that is easy to play, then a Martin nylon string guitar is a great choice.
Table: Comparison of Nylon Strings and Steel Strings
| Characteristic | Nylon Strings | Steel Strings |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Polyamide | Steel |
| Sound | Warm, mellow | Bright, crisp |
| Tension | Low | High |
| Durability | Durable | Less durable |
| Playability | Easy to play | More difficult to play |
5. Sound
The sound of a Martin nylon string guitar is one of its most distinctive features. Martin guitars are known for their warm, rich sound, with a balanced sound that has plenty of volume and projection.
- Construction: The construction of a Martin nylon string guitar contributes to its sound. The solid spruce top provides a bright, clear sound, while the mahogany back and sides add warmth and depth. The combination of these woods creates a balanced sound that is ideal for a variety of playing styles.
- Strings: The type of strings used on a guitar can also affect its sound. Martin nylon string guitars are typically strung with nylon strings, which have a warm, mellow sound. Nylon strings also have a lower tension than steel strings, which makes them easier to play.
- Neck: The neck of a guitar can also affect its sound. Martin nylon string guitars typically have necks made of mahogany or Spanish cedar, which are known for their strength and stability. These woods also contribute to the warm, rich sound of Martin guitars.
- Fretboard: The fretboard of a guitar can also affect its sound. Martin nylon string guitars typically have fretboards made of ebony or rosewood, which are known for their durability and their ability to produce a clear, bright sound.
The combination of these factors contributes to the warm, rich sound of Martin nylon string guitars. These guitars are ideal for a variety of playing styles, from classical to flamenco to fingerstyle.
6. Playability
The playability of a guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an instrument. Martin nylon string guitars are renowned for their exceptional playability, which makes them a great choice for players of all levels.
One of the key factors that contributes to the playability of a Martin nylon string guitar is the low tension of the nylon strings. Nylon strings are much softer and more flexible than steel strings, which makes them easier to press down on the fretboard. This is especially beneficial for beginners, as it can help to reduce finger pain and fatigue.
Another factor that contributes to the playability of a Martin nylon string guitar is the comfortable neck and fretboard. The neck of a Martin nylon string guitar is typically made of mahogany or Spanish cedar, which are known for their strength and stability. The fretboard is typically made of ebony or rosewood, which are known for their durability and their ability to produce a clear, bright sound.
The combination of these factors makes Martin nylon string guitars a joy to play. They are easy to press down on the fretboard, and the comfortable neck and fretboard make them a pleasure to hold. This makes them a great choice for players of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
Here are some real-life examples of how the playability of Martin nylon string guitars has benefited players:
- Beginner guitarists: The low tension of the nylon strings makes Martin nylon string guitars a great choice for beginners. They are easy to press down on the fretboard, which can help to reduce finger pain and fatigue. This makes it easier for beginners to learn how to play the guitar.
- Experienced guitarists: The comfortable neck and fretboard of Martin nylon string guitars make them a joy to play for experienced guitarists. The neck is easy to hold, and the fretboard is smooth and responsive. This makes it easy for experienced guitarists to play complex chords and melodies.
- Classical guitarists: Martin nylon string guitars are a popular choice for classical guitarists. The warm, rich sound of nylon strings is well-suited for
classical music, and the playability of Martin nylon string guitars makes them easy to play even the most complex classical pieces.
Overall, the playability of Martin nylon string guitars is one of their most important features. They are easy to play, comfortable to hold, and they produce a beautiful sound. This makes them a great choice for players of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
Table: Key Playability Features of Martin Nylon String Guitars
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Low tension nylon strings | Easy to press down on the fretboard, reducing finger pain and fatigue |
| Comfortable neck and fretboard | Easy to hold and play, even for extended periods of time |
7. Versatility
The versatility of Martin nylon string guitars is one of their most appealing features. These guitars can be used for a wide variety of genres, from classical to flamenco to fingerstyle guitar. They are also a popular choice for recording and live performance.
One of the reasons why Martin nylon string guitars are so versatile is their warm, rich sound. This sound is well-suited for a variety of genres, and it can be easily amplified for live performance or recording. Additionally, the low tension of the nylon strings makes these guitars easy to play, which makes them a good choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Here are some real-life examples of how the versatility of Martin nylon string guitars has benefited players:
- Classical guitarists: Martin nylon string guitars are a popular choice for classical guitarists. The warm, rich sound of nylon strings is well-suited for classical music, and the playability of Martin nylon string guitars makes them easy to play even the most complex classical pieces.
- Flamenco guitarists: Martin nylon string guitars are also a popular choice for flamenco guitarists. The bright, percussive sound of nylon strings is well-suited for flamenco music, and the low tension of the nylon strings makes these guitars easy to play the fast and complex rhythms of flamenco.
- Fingerstyle guitarists: Martin nylon string guitars are also a popular choice for fingerstyle guitarists. The warm, rich sound of nylon strings is well-suited for fingerstyle guitar, and the playability of Martin nylon string guitars makes them easy to play even the most complex fingerstyle pieces.
- Recording engineers: Martin nylon string guitars are also a popular choice for recording engineers. The warm, rich sound of nylon strings is well-suited for recording, and the low tension of the nylon strings makes these guitars easy to play in the studio.
- Live performers: Martin nylon string guitars are also a popular choice for live performers. The warm, rich sound of nylon strings is well-suited for live performance, and the playability of Martin nylon string guitars makes them easy to play even on large stages.
Overall, the versatility of Martin nylon string guitars is one of their most important features. These guitars can be used for a wide variety of genres, and they are a popular choice for recording and live performance. This makes them a great choice for players of all levels and styles.
Table: Applications and Benefits of Martin Nylon String Guitars
| Application | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Classical guitar | Warm, rich sound; easy to play |
| Flamenco guitar | Bright, percussive sound; easy to play fast and complex rhythms |
| Fingerstyle guitar | Warm, rich sound; easy to play complex fingerstyle pieces |
| Recording | Warm, rich sound; easy to play in the studio |
| Live performance | Warm, rich sound; easy to play on large stages |
8. Value
Martin nylon string guitars are a valuable investment for a number of reasons. First, they are well-made instruments that are built to last. Martin guitars are made with high-quality materials and construction, and they are known for their durability. This means that a Martin nylon string guitar is likely to last for many years, even with regular use.
- Quality Construction: Martin nylon string guitars are made with solid wood construction, which gives them a rich, resonant sound. The guitars are also built with a dovetail neck joint, which is one of the strongest neck joints available. This combination of quality materials and construction ensures that Martin nylon string guitars will last for many years.
- Craftsmanship: Martin guitars are handcrafted by skilled luthiers, who take great care to ensure that each guitar is made to the highest standards. This attention to detail results in guitars that are not only beautiful, but also durable and reliable.
- Resale Value: Martin nylon string guitars hold their value well, making them a good investment. This is because Martin guitars are considered to be some of the best guitars in the world, and they are always in demand.
Overall, Martin nylon string guitars are a valuable investment for players who are looking for a high-quality, durable guitar that will last for many years. While the initial cost of a Martin guitar may be higher than some other brands, the guitar’s quality, craftsmanship, and resale value make it a worthwhile investment.
9. History
Martin’s long history of innovation and craftsmanship has played a major role in the development of the nylon string guitar. In the early 1900s, Martin was one of the first companies to start making nylon string guitars, and they quickly became known for their superior quality and sound. Today, Martin nylon string guitars are considered to be some of the best in the world, and they are used by professional guitarists in a wide variety of genres.
One of the things that sets Martin nylon string guitars apart from other brands is their attention to detail. Each guitar is handcrafted by skilled luthiers, who take great care to ensure that every guitar meets Martin’s high standards of quality. This attention to detail results in guitars that are not only beautiful, but also durable and reliable.
Another thing that sets Martin nylon string guitars apart is their sound. Martin guitars are known for their warm, rich sound, which is perfect for a variety of genres, from classical to flamenco to fingerstyle guitar. This sound is achieved through a combination of factors, including the use of high-quality materials, such as solid wood construction, and the careful craftsmanship of Martin’s luthiers.
Martin nylon string guitars are a valuable investment for any guitarist. They are well-made instruments that are built to last, and they produce a beautiful, rich sound. If you are looking for a nylon string guitar that will provide you with years of enjoyment, then a Martin guitar is a great choice.
10. Key Insights
- Martin has a long history of innovation and craftsmanship in the production of nylon string guitars.
- Martin nylon string guitars are considered to be some of the best in the world.
- Martin nylon string guitars are known for their warm, rich sound and their attention to detail.
- Martin nylon string guitars are a valuable investment for any guitarist.
Table: Martin Nylon String Guitars: History and Impact
| Year | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Early 1900s | Martin begins making nylon string guitars. | Martin becomes one of the first companies to make nylon string guitars, and their guitars quickly become known for their superior quality and sound. |
| 1950s | Martin introduces the 000-18 nylon string guitar. | The 000-18 becomes one of Martin’s most popular nylon string guitars, and it is still used by professional guitarists today. |
| 1960s | Martin introduces the D-28 nylon string guitar. | The D-28 becomes another one of Martin’s most popular nylon string guitars, and it is known for its powerful sound and versatility. |
| 1970s | Martin introduces the M-38 nylon string guitar. | The M-38 is a smaller-bodied nylon string guitar that is perfect for fingerstyle playing. |
| 1980s | Martin introduces the HD-28 nylon string guitar. | The HD-28 is a dreadnought-bodied nylon string guitar that is known for its loud, powerful sound. |
| 1990s | Martin introduces the 000C-16E nylon string guitar. | The 000C-16E is a cutaway nylon string guitar that is perfect for live performance. |
| 2000s | Martin introduces the GPC-13E nylon string guitar. | The GPC-13E is a grand performance-bodied nylon string guitar that is known for its balanced sound and versatility. |
| 2010s | Martin introduces the DRS1 nylon string guitar. | The DRS1 is a dreadnought-bodied nylon string guitar that is perfect for a variety of genres, from classical to flamenco to fingerstyle guitar. |
| Today | Martin nylon string guitars are considered to be some of the best in the world, and they are used by professional guitarists in a wide variety of genres. | Martin’s long history of innovation and craftsmanship has played a major role in the development of the nylon string guitar, and their guitars continue to be the choice of many of the world’s top guitarists. |
11. Reputation
The reputation of Martin guitars is built on a long history of quality and innovation. Martin guitars are made with the finest materials and craftsmanship, and they are known for their beautiful sound and playability. Martin nylon string guitars are no exception. They are made with the same high standards of quality and craftsmanship as Martin’s steel-string guitars, and they produce a warm, rich sound that is perfect for classical, flamenco, and fingerstyle playing.
The reputation of Martin nylon string guitars is also due to the fact that they are the choice of many professional guitarists around the world. Some of the most famous guitarists who have played Martin nylon string guitars include Andrs Segovia, Julian Bream, and Paco de Luca. These guitarists have chosen Martin guitars because they know that they can rely on them to produce a beautiful sound and playability that will allow them to perform at their best.
The reputation of Martin nylon string guitars is well-deserved. These guitars are made with the finest materials and craftsmanship, and they produce a beautiful sound that is perfect for a variety of genres. If you are looking for a nylon string guitar that will provide you with years of enjoyment, then a Martin guitar is a great choice.
Key Insights:
- Martin is one of the most respected names in the guitar industry.
- Martin nylon string guitars are known for their quality, craftsmanship, and sound.
- Martin nylon string guitars are the choice of many professional guitarists around the world.
Table: The Reputation of Martin Nylon String Guitars
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Quality materials and craftsmanship | Produces a beautiful sound and playability |
| Endorsement by professional guitarists | Validates the quality and performance of Martin nylon string guitars |
| Long history of innovation | Establishes Martin as a leader in the guitar industry |
12. Legacy
The legacy of Martin nylon string guitars is a testament to their quality, craftsmanship, and sound. These guitars have been used by some of the greatest guitarists in history, and they continue to be the choice of many top guitarists today. This legacy is due to a number of factors, including:
- Quality and Craftsmanship: Martin nylon string guitars are made with the finest materials and craftsmanship. This results in guitars that are not only beautiful, but also durable and reliable.
- Sound: Martin nylon string guitars are known for their warm, rich sound. This sound is perfect for a variety of genres, from classical to flamenco to fingerstyle guitar.
- Endorsement by Professional Guitarists: Some of the greatest guitarists in history have played Martin nylon string guitars, including Andrs Segovia, Julian Bream, and Paco de Luca. These guitarists have chosen Martin guitars because they know that they can rely on them to produce a beautiful sound and playability that will allow them to perform at their best.
- Historical Significance: Martin nylon string guitars have been used in some of the most iconic moments in music history. For example, Andrs Segovia used a Martin nylon string guitar to perform the world premiere of Manuel de Falla’s “Homenaje”.
The legacy of Martin nylon string guitars is a testament to their quality, craftsmanship, sound, and historical significance. These guitars are a valuable investment for any guitarist, and they will provide years of enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Martin Nylon String Guitars
Martin nylon string guitars are known for their warm, rich sound, exceptional playability, and versatility. They are a popular choice for classical guitarists, flamenco players, and fingerstyle guitarists. Here are some frequently asked questions about Martin nylon string guitars:
Question 1: What are the benefits of Martin nylon string guitars?
Martin nylon string guitars offer a number of benefits, including:
- Warm, rich sound
- Exceptional playability
- Versatility
- Durability
- Value
Question 2: What are the different types of Martin nylon string guitars?
Martin offers a variety of nylon string guitars, including:
- Classical guitars
- Flamenco gu
itars - Fingerstyle guitars
Each type of guitar has its own unique sound and playability characteristics. Classical guitars are known for their warm, rich sound and are ideal for classical music. Flamenco guitars have a brighter, more percussive sound and are ideal for flamenco music. Fingerstyle guitars have a balanced sound and are ideal for fingerstyle playing.
Question 3: How do I choose the right Martin nylon string guitar for me?
When choosing a Martin nylon string guitar, there are a few things to consider, including:
- Your playing style
- Your budget
- The features you want
If you are a classical guitarist, you will want to choose a guitar with a warm, rich sound. If you are a flamenco guitarist, you will want to choose a guitar with a brighter, more percussive sound. If you are a fingerstyle guitarist, you will want to choose a guitar with a balanced sound.
Question 4: How do I care for my Martin nylon string guitar?
To care for your Martin nylon string guitar, you should:
- Store it in a cool, dry place
- Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity
- Clean it regularly with a soft, dry cloth
- Have it professionally serviced once a year
By following these tips, you can help your Martin nylon string guitar last for many years to come.
Summary:
Martin nylon string guitars are high-quality instruments that are built to last. They offer a warm, rich sound, exceptional playability, and versatility. When choosing a Martin nylon string guitar, it is important to consider your playing style, budget, and the features you want. With proper care, your Martin nylon string guitar will provide you with years of enjoyment.
Tips for Choosing and Caring for Martin Nylon String Guitars
Martin nylon string guitars are known for their warm, rich sound, exceptional playability, and versatility. They are a popular choice for classical guitarists, flamenco players, and fingerstyle guitarists. Here are some tips to help you choose and care for your Martin nylon string guitar:
Tip 1: Choose the right guitar for your playing style.
Martin offers a variety of nylon string guitars, including classical guitars, flamenco guitars, and fingerstyle guitars. Each type of guitar has its own unique sound and playability characteristics. Consider your playing style when choosing a guitar.
Tip 2: Set a budget.
Martin nylon string guitars range in price from around $1,000 to $5,000. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your choices.
Tip 3: Consider the features you want.
Some Martin nylon string guitars come with features such as cutaways, electronics, and different types of finishes. Consider which features are important to you when choosing a guitar.
Tip 4: Play the guitar before you buy it.
If possible, play the guitar before you buy it. This will give you a chance to get a feel for the guitar and make sure that it is a good fit for you.
Tip 5: Store your guitar in a cool, dry place.
To protect your guitar from damage, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity.
Tip 6: Clean your guitar regularly.
To keep your guitar looking and sounding its best, clean it regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners.
Tip 7: Have your guitar professionally serviced once a year.
To keep your guitar in good condition, have it professionally serviced once a year. A qualified technician can inspect your guitar, make any necessary repairs, and adjust the action.
Summary:
By following these tips, you can choose and care for your Martin nylon string guitar so that it will provide you with years of enjoyment.
Conclusion
Martin nylon string guitars are known for their warm, rich sound, exceptional playability, and versatility. They are a popular choice for classical guitarists, flamenco players, and fingerstyle guitarists. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, Martin has a nylon string guitar that is perfect for you.
When choosing a Martin nylon string guitar, there are a few things to consider, including your playing style, budget, and the features you want. Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices.
Once you have chosen a guitar, it is important to care for it properly. This includes storing it in a cool, dry place, cleaning it regularly, and having it professionally serviced once a year. By following these tips, you can help your Martin nylon string guitar last for many years to come.
