The quilted mahagony back and sides create a very crisp treble and warm ringing bass notes. I use Elixir nanocoated strings and they match very well with this guitar. Rarely play it electric but have experienced it through the clean channel of my Handwired 1980 Marshall JOM 2203 MV model. Extraordinary! This is one of those guitars that can actually make you sound better that you know you are. (Some of you who have played for 30 years or longer will know what i mean!)

Fit and finish are impeccable. I have handled many handmade collectible guitars, and this equals any of them except the absolute finest examples.

I only give it a 9 because the spacing of the lower frets make certain stretches difficult. But when played properly the sound is glorious.

My guitar required a re-set of the neck, which was done expertly by an authorized repair technician, in Louisville, Ky. Subsequent to the repair the guitar plays effortlessly.

Even though I paid less than the retail price it was still a lot of money. But every time I look at it I am rewarded. It is a sight to behold, the appointments among the finest made by Martin. The alternative "tree of life" headstock inlay is exquisite. The quality of the purfluing and vintage herringbone inlays is top notch as well. Aesthetically the guitar is amazing.

see above.

Yes it has compelling aesthetic appeal. The top is a slightly darked Engleman spruce which provides a wonderful contrast to the quilted AAAA mahagony back and sides. the figuring of my guitar is beautiful on all surfaces. IMHO only certain Brazillian Rosewood guitars have a prettier appearance.

35 years, now just a hobby.

Rock, R&B, Blues