Martin Custom Shop 000 Size 28 Style Flamed Koa Acoustic Guitar

In September 2019, Truetone Music was invited to Nazareth, PA for a very special visit. We had the chance to spec out a few guitars to be custom built by Martin. We we were also thrilled by the prospect of being able to hand select our own exotic wood at the factory, aided by Custom Shop representatives and tonewood experts.

We knew we wanted to represent an interesting variety as far as models and exotic woods, but we also wanted the guitars to sound as best they could, never sacrificing tone for bling!

This Martin Custom Shop version of a 000-28 with Flamed Koa (top, back and sides) is a true example of that theory coming together in the best possible way.  The stunning wood choice is what you notice first, with the heavily flamed Koa drawing your eyes in immediately.  The look of the guitar itself would be enough, but the materials, construction and appointments make it all the more special.

Koa is one of most exotic and recognizable tone woods used on acoustic guitars.  The obvious appeal right off the bat, is aesthetic, but it's about much more than looks.  Koa produces a brighter sound that is also very evenly balanced.  Often described as being between maple and rosewood, Koa offers the best of both worlds: the crisp, clarity of the former and warmth and thick tone of the latter.  Koa guitars might sound bright and tight off the shelf, and benefit from a good amount of ‘playing in.’ The more they’re played, the more the sound opens up. Tones become richer, sweeter and more resonant, with a rich low end and well-rounded sparkle overall.

This particular spread of Koa was was hand-selected while at the Custom Shop.  While it was hard to pick (everything Martin showed us was beautiful), we made our pick for two reasons:  1. the flame was spectacular, and 2.  the Martin wood gurus recommend it, as the grain would provide a slightly warmer tone than normally found with Koa.

Even though the guitar was already going to be gorgeous, we decided to add European Flamed Maple for the binding, Style 42 Snowflake fingerboard inlays, and select Abalone for the headplate. The neck is Martin’s modified low oval with high performance taper, making it very comfortable to play for hours. The radius is 16” with a nut width of 1 3/4”.  The guitar is finished in gloss with a satin finished neck.  It comes with a Martin hard shell case and certificate of authenticity.  

Come to Truetone Music today to experience this amazing Martin Custom Shop guitar, or order online right here today.