Martin Custom Shop 0000-28 Claro Walnut with Sitka Spruce

Martin Custom 0000-28 Claro Walnut

Truetone Music was invited to Nazareth, PA for a very special visit. We had the chance to spec out guitars to be custom built by the Martin Custom Shop. We were also thrilled by the prospect of being able to hand select our own wood at the factory, aided by Custom Shop representatives and tonewood experts.  That began a relationship that has continued for multiple custom runs over a number of years.  During our latest visit, we were able to dream up a guitar that we are now excited to present.

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 0000-28 with Claro Walnut is a true example of that theory coming together in the best possible way.  First things first, you'll notice that this is a 0000 - something that is rarely seen.  As the name suggests, it's the shape of the well-known 000, but a bit larger.  To us, this guitar fits in right between a 000-28 and a dreadnought like a D-28.  It's not just because of the body size, which is very comfortable, but also because the scale length (25.4"), and most importantly, the sound.  It has the tightness of a 000-28, but the projection of a D-28.  It's not "boomy" at all, but it does have a nice, tight bottom end, with an amazing clarity on the top end.  The mids gives a resonant presence.  Combined, all of this equals a unique sounding guitar that is balanced through the tonal spectrum, and usable for a wide variety of styles.

 

You'll also take note of the the stunningly beautiful back and sides of the guitar, as it has an exquisite grain. The look of the guitar itself would be enough, but the materials, construction and appointments make it all the more special.   Be sure to zoom in on the photos to see everything.

We chose Claro Walnut for this guitar, not just because it looks amazing, but also on the recommendation of the experts at the Martin Custom Shop, for sound.  Walnut's stiffness and density provides an even balance between bright treble notes, rosewood's midrange, and mahogany's rich character.  In some ways, it's similar to koa.  We felt that this "in between" tonewood was perfect for a guitar like 000.  You get both warmth and brightness, making it great for both strumming and fingerpicking.  Also, it will age well, with the guitar opening up and also deepening with use.

This particular 0000-28 was matched with an amazing Sitka Spruce top, which was also hand-selected while at the Custom Shop.  It adds a bit of warmth to the bottom end, as well as mid-range to balance the brightness of the walnut back & sides, producing a great balance.

Even though the guitar was already going to be gorgeous, we decided to add antique white binding, as well Golden Era style inlays to the black ebony fretboard, just to make it a bit more singular. 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's smooth and easy to play without hand fatigue.  When it comes to a guitar like this, you want want to put it down.

This Custom Shop 0000-28 is a wonderful represenation of what the masters at Martin can do.  We absolutely love getting creative with them to cook up magical guitars like this.  You won't see another out there exactly like it, as there's only one!  The guitar comes with a high quality Martin hardshell case and certificate of authenticity.  

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