Description
A recent production of the little sibling to the 42 and 45 style dreadnoughts that sit atop the Martin price list. The model was introduced in the 70s with a few slight differences from the 42, with the hexagon inlays on the ebony fretboard like the 45 style but with no pearl around the fretboard extension. The top is bordered in pearl with the matching rosette and pearl inlaid bridge pins. The belly bridge and tortoise guard live on a spruce soundboard, with rosewood for the sides and back which has the zig zag back strip. The neck and headstock are bound, with the CF Martin block logo inlaid in pearl as well. This more recent version has a set of gold open gear Grover tuners, giving a more vintage look than previous versions with modern looking tuners.
The guitar is in great shape, it has clearly been played but maintained carefully. There is only some light signs of use and handling, with surface swirl in the clear coat. There are no major dings or dents to be seen, thankfully. The most obvious sign the guitar was well played is that the satin neck has 'glossed up' from use. It is in the original 500 series Martin case with the end pin and manual from Martin. The weigh is 4 lbs 12 oz and the high performance taper neck measures in at .81" at the first fret to .90" at the twelfth fret.
The tone of the guitar is the magical sound that most all pearl Martins seem to have. A strong, piano-like bass with plenty of clarity and mid-range presence. It responds equally well to finger style or playing with a pick, with very dynamic tone and volume.
