Best Martin Guitar 0/00/000 Acoustic Guitars 2026
So, you're looking at a Martin 0, 00, or 000? Smart move. These aren't just guitars; they're the backbone of countless recordings and stages, from hushed folk ballads to driving bluegrass. There's a reason these sizes are so ubiquitous - they offer a sweet spot of projection, comfort, and tonal complexity that's hard to beat. Let's break down what makes these Martin sizes special and which one might be the right fit for you.
Last updated: April 22, 2026 • Next update: April 29, 2026
#1
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar 00028 Ambertone
Intimate Venues
Parlor Blues
Recording
Key Feature:
This 000-28 Ambertone is a seriously refined instrument – the Ambertone finish is gorgeous, and the all-solid wood construction delivers a mature, balanced tone that's fantastic for fingerstyle or lighter strumming. It's a premium-priced choice ideal for experienced players seeking a comfortable, versatile, and beautifully crafted guitar.
PROS
- • AmberTone finish provides stunning aesthetics and unique tonal warmth.
- • Solid rosewood back and sides deliver rich overtones and projection.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptionally smooth playability and note definition.
- • Mahogany neck provides a comfortable feel and balanced sustain.
CONS
- • The Auditorium size may be slightly large for smaller players.
- • Rosewood can be susceptible to humidity changes, requiring diligent care.
- • The Antique White binding is a stylistic choice that may not appeal to everyone.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 605652
$5,279
#2
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Martin Guitar Custom Shop 00 Spruce
Recording
Parlor Blues
Classical Crossover
Key Feature:
This Custom Shop 00 is a serious instrument – beautifully crafted and incredibly balanced. The Engelmann top really sings, and that rosewood back gives it a warm, mature tone. It's perfect for fingerstyle players, singer-songwriters, or anyone who appreciates a refined, vintage-inspired acoustic with a responsive feel.
PROS
- • Engelmann spruce top delivers exceptional responsiveness and shimmering overtones.
- • Guatemalan rosewood back/sides provide rich, complex bass and sustain.
- • Ebony fingerboard and 16” radius offer smooth playability and comfortable action.
- • Grover Sta-Tite tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability and vintage aesthetics.
CONS
- • The 1.75” nut width may feel narrow for players accustomed to wider necks.
- • Rosewood's environmental sustainability is a growing concern for some buyers.
- • The premium-priced nature makes it inaccessible to many aspiring guitarists.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616321
$8,469
#3
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Martin Guitar 0X2E Cocobolo
Recording
Intimate Venues
Parlor Blues
Key Feature:
The 0X2E Cocobolo is a surprisingly good-sounding and playable guitar, especially considering the laminate construction. It's a great choice for gigging musicians needing a reliable amplified acoustic, or anyone wanting a Martin vibe without the solid wood premium price. The comfortable neck and balanced tone make it versatile for various styles.
PROS
- • Cocobolo laminate delivers a surprisingly rich, complex tone.
- • E-1 pickup provides a usable amplified signal for stage or recording.
- • Rust birch neck offers stability and a comfortable, familiar feel.
- • Richlite fingerboard resists wear and provides a consistent playing surface.
CONS
- • Cocobolo laminate lacks the resonant complexity of solid wood alternatives.
- • Richlite, while durable, doesn't offer the same feel as ebony.
- • The E-1 pickup is serviceable, but not a high-end, nuanced solution.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 581069
$967
#4
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Guitar 000-15E LH
Intimate Venues
Fingerpicking
Recording
Key Feature:
The 000-15E LH is a fantastic choice for left-handed players seeking a versatile and warm-voiced acoustic. It's beautifully built, sounds great both unplugged and amplified, and offers a comfortable playing experience—ideal for singer-songwriters and players who appreciate a balanced, articulate tone.
PROS
- • Mahogany top delivers warm, focused tone with excellent note separation.
- • Sapele back and sides provide a balanced response and surprising projection.
- • Martin E-1 pickup system offers clean amplified sound, surprisingly natural.
- • Left-handed model provides comfortable ergonomics for southpaw players.
CONS
- • Mahogany top can limit versatility for very bright or overtly aggressive styles.
- • Katalox fingerboard, while beautiful, can feel a bit dense compared to ebony.
- • Satin finish, while aesthetically pleasing, may not appeal to players preferring gloss.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597306
$1,649
#5
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar 0018
Recording
Vintage Style
Parlor Blues
Key Feature:
The 0018 is a beautifully crafted instrument offering a refined, balanced tone ideal for fingerstyle players and those seeking a classic Martin sound. Its smaller body size provides comfortable playability, while the solid wood construction promises age and playability. It’s a high-end choice for serious acoustic players who appreciate nuanced tone and traditional build quality.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a focused, articulate tone with excellent projection.
- • Mahogany back and sides provide warmth and a balanced, mature sonic character.
- • Ebony fingerboard and bone nut offer smooth playability and sustain.
- • Open nickel machine heads ensure precise tuning stability and a vintage aesthetic.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction limits versatility; less suited for heavily distorted tones.
- • The 1.75” nut width might feel narrow for players with larger hands.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 605690
$4,146
#6
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar 000-28 Brooke Ligertwood
Vintage Style
Parlor Blues
Classical Crossover
Key Feature:
This Brooke Ligertwood 000-28 is a gorgeous instrument with a mature, warm tone thanks to the VTS. It’s a fantastic choice for singer-songwriters and fingerstyle players who appreciate a refined aesthetic and a vintage-inspired voice. The comfortable 000 body size makes it versatile for performance and recording.
PROS
- • Vintage Tone System delivers a beautifully aged, responsive sound.
- • Rosewood back and sides provide rich, complex overtones and sustain.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and smooth playability.
- • Signature aesthetic details add a touch of elegance and personalization.
CONS
- • The antique toner finish may not appeal to players preferring a glossier look.
- • Rosewood's tonal characteristics can be less versatile for certain modern genres.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 560385
$4,618
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Martin Guitar 000-28E Modern Deluxe
Vintage Style
Fingerpicking
Classical Crossover
Key Feature:
The 000-28E Modern Deluxe is a refined powerhouse. Martin's VTS treatment on the spruce top really nails that aged, woody tone, while the rosewood back adds warmth. This is a fantastic choice for serious fingerstyle players and singer-songwriters who want a premium acoustic with excellent amplified options.
PROS
- • VTS spruce top delivers nuanced vintage tone and responsiveness.
- • Rosewood back and sides provide rich overtones and sustain.
- • Fishman Aura VT Blend system captures authentic acoustic voice with amplification.
- • Ebony fingerboard and compensated bone saddle enhance clarity and playability.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, limiting accessibility for many players.
- • Mahogany neck can be a bit thick for some players’ preferences.
- • Tortoise pickguard feels a bit dated compared to modern aesthetics.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 556484
$6,599
#8
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Martin Guitar M-6 Johnny Marr
Parlor Blues
Intimate Venues
Classical Crossover
Key Feature:
This is a serious instrument, clearly designed for players who want a refined, responsive acoustic with great amplified capabilities. Johnny Marr’s signature touch adds a unique character – expect a focused, articulate tone perfect for nuanced strumming and intricate fingerpicking. It’s a high-end guitar built for discerning players and studio work, offering a very comfortable playing experience.
PROS
- • Forward-shifted bracing yields exceptional clarity and projection.
- • Rosewood back/sides deliver rich overtones and sustain.
- • L.R. Baggs Anthem pickup provides natural amplified tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers smooth playability and precise intonation.
CONS
- • The 0000 body size can be unwieldy for smaller players.
- • The aging toner finish might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 601935
$7,149
#9
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Martin Guitar 000C Jr E New
Intimate Venues
Recording
Parlor Blues
Key Feature:
This 000C Jr E is a fantastic little workhorse. The spruce top gives it a lively, responsive feel, and the cutaway makes those higher frets easily accessible. It's ideal for singer-songwriters or players who want a comfortable, balanced acoustic with a decent plugged-in sound – a real sweet spot for portability and tone.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers bright, articulate tone with excellent projection.
- • Sapele back and sides offer warmth and sustain, balancing the top.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides smooth, fast playability and clear note definition.
- • Martin E-1 pickup system offers respectable amplified tone, surprisingly natural.
CONS
- • Sapele can be a bit 'boxy' compared to more figured woods like mahogany.
- • Smaller body size (000 Jr) may lack the full low-end response some prefer.
- • Richlite bridge, while sustainable, lacks the traditional feel of ebony.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 614234
$912
#10
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Martin Guitar 000-15E
Classical Crossover
Intimate Venues
Parlor Blues
Key Feature:
The 000-15E is a really solid choice for the singer-songwriter or fingerstyle player who wants a warm, balanced tone and a comfortable feel. It's a well-built instrument that sounds great both acoustic and amplified, offering a premium-priced experience without the absolute top-tier price tag. This is a workhorse guitar that'll serve you well for years.
PROS
- • Mahogany top delivers warm, focused tone ideal for fingerstyle and vocals.
- • Sapele back and sides provide excellent projection and sustain.
- • Martin E-1 pickup offers a surprisingly natural amplified sound.
- • Katalox fingerboard provides a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
CONS
- • Mahogany top can limit versatility compared to spruce for brighter genres.
- • Matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can feel less premium.
- • Slightly heavier than some 000 models due to wood choices.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 597305
$1,649
#11
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Guitar 000 Jr E Sapele
Recording
Fingerpicking
Intimate Venues
Key Feature:
This 000 Jr E Sapele is a fantastic option for gigging singer-songwriters and smaller-framed players. The svelte body is comfortable, the tone is remarkably balanced, and the E-1 pickup makes it stage-ready without sacrificing acoustic integrity. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of value for the money.
PROS
- • Sapele back/sides deliver warm, focused tone with surprising projection.
- • Spruce top provides excellent clarity and responsiveness across the spectrum.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience for intricate work.
- • Martin E-1 pickup system is surprisingly natural-sounding for amplified performance.
CONS
- • Shorter scale length might feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- • Sapele's midrange focus may not suit all genres equally well.
- • Cutaway access isn't as seamless as a full-sized 000 model.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 614256
$1,099
#12
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Martin Guitar 00028 Sunburst
Intimate Venues
Fingerpicking
Parlor Blues
Key Feature:
This 000-28 is a beautifully crafted instrument, offering a balanced and articulate tone ideal for fingerstyle players and singer-songwriters. The solid rosewood provides a warm, mature sound that develops beautifully over time. It’s a serious guitar for the discerning musician who appreciates quality and traditional construction.
PROS
- • Solid rosewood back/sides deliver rich, complex overtones and sustain.
- • Mahogany neck provides warmth and comfortable, familiar feel.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers slick playability and note clarity.
- • Antique white binding enhances aesthetics and adds subtle protection.
CONS
- • The 000 size may feel slightly small for players accustomed to larger dreadnoughts.
- • Rosewood's tonal characteristics may not suit all playing styles; brighter tones preferred by some.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 605683
$5,279
#13
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar 0X2EL Cocobolo LH
Recording
Fingerpicking
Parlor Blues
Key Feature:
This 0X2EL is a solid option for left-handed players seeking a balanced, amplified acoustic. The Cocobolo HPL provides a punchy, defined sound, and the E1 pickup makes it stage-ready. It's a great value for a Martin, ideal for gigging singer-songwriters and those wanting a reliable, versatile instrument.
PROS
- • Cocobolo HPL back/sides deliver a focused, articulate tone with surprising projection.
- • Spruce top provides a responsive dynamic range, excellent for both fingerstyle and strumming.
- • Martin E1 pickup offers a clean, amplified sound suitable for live performance or recording.
- • Rust birch laminate neck provides stability and a comfortable, familiar feel for many players.
CONS
- • Cocobolo HPL, while durable, lacks the aesthetic warmth of solid wood options.
- • The shorter scale length might feel slightly cramped for players with larger hands.
- • The E1 pickup, while good, isn’t a premium-level system for demanding studio work.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 581082
$967
#14
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Guitar 00-28 Modern Deluxe
Recording
Fingerpicking
Parlor Blues
Key Feature:
The 00-28 Modern Deluxe is a beautifully crafted instrument offering a refined, balanced tone. It’s a fantastic choice for serious players, fingerstyle guitarists, or anyone appreciating a classic Martin sound with subtle modern enhancements—a real workhorse for studio and intimate performance settings.
PROS
- • Vintage Tone System delivers aged wood resonance and warmth.
- • Rosewood back/sides provide rich overtones and sustain.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and note definition.
- • Flamed maple binding adds refined aesthetics and structural integrity.
CONS
- • High-end price point limits accessibility for many players.
- • Grand Concert body may lack projection for very loud stage environments.
- • Tortoise pickguard is a stylistic choice; some prefer a more minimalist look.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 556487
$5,499
#15
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Guitar 000-X2E LH
Fingerpicking
Vintage Style
Parlor Blues
Key Feature:
This 000-X2E LH is a fantastic entry point into the Martin world for left-handed players. The auditorium body shape offers comfortable ergonomics and a balanced voice, while the Fishman pickup makes it stage-ready. It’s a great option for gigging musicians or students who want a reliable and affordable instrument.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers balanced tone with clear projection.
- • HPL back/sides offer durability and consistent humidity response.
- • Fishman MX-T pickup provides a natural amplified sound for stage.
- • Left-handed model offers comfortable playability for southpaw players.
CONS
- • HPL construction lacks the acoustic complexity of solid wood instruments.
- • Selected hardwood neck offers good feel, but lacks premium feel of ebony.
- • Tortoise pickguard feels a little cheap compared to the overall build.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 581124
$967
How to Choose the Best 0/00/000 Acoustic Guitars
1
Heritage & Reputation
Martin's legacy isn't just marketing fluff. Their designs have been refined over decades, and that experience translates to instruments that are inherently well-balanced and responsive. You're getting a piece of history, but more importantly, a guitar that works.
2
Body Size & Tone
The 0 is the smallest, offering a more focused, intimate tone - great for fingerpicking and quieter settings. The 00 is a step up in volume and bass response, ideal for singer-songwriters. The 000 offers even more projection and a broader dynamic range, often preferred for ensemble playing and strumming.
3
X-Bracing Patterns
Martin's bracing patterns, like the forward-shifted X-1 and the Vintage X, significantly impact tone. Forward-shifted bracing generally yields more headroom and a more responsive low-end thump. Vintage bracing often gives you a more 'aged' tone with a slightly warmer, more complex character - but can be a bit less dynamic.
4
Tonewood Choices
Mahogany offers a drier, more focused tone with a beautiful overtone complexity - excellent for cutting through a mix. Rosewood provides a richer, more resonant tone with a pronounced low-end and a shimmering high-end. The specific wood grade also matters; higher-grade woods generally offer more clarity and sustain.
5
Neck Profile & Playability
Martin's neck profiles vary (SlimTaper, Modified Low Oval, etc.). The SlimTaper is popular for its comfortable feel, but a chunkier profile might suit a player who prefers a more substantial feel and wants to avoid fret buzz when bending strings.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the prettiest rosette or the fanciest binding - those are purely aesthetic. Focus on the wood combination and bracing pattern, as those dictate the core tone. Used models are a great way to get a higher-spec Martin without breaking the bank, but always check the neck relief and fret wear. A good setup is crucial - even a perfect guitar needs a proper setup to play its best.
Our Methodology
We don't just look at specs here. We've spent years playing these guitars live, tracking them in studios, and A/B'ing them against everything else on the market. Our evaluations are based on how they feel in your hands, how they respond to different playing styles, and, most importantly, how they sound in a band mix or captured through a mic - not just in a vacuum.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 000 is roughly 2 inches wider than the 00, giving it more bass and projection. The 00 is more comfortable for smaller players, while the 000 handles strumming and ensemble playing better.
No. While Martin makes dreadnought versions of these sizes, they also offer smaller body shapes like Concert and Auditorium, which offer a more balanced and articulate tone.
It depends on the genre. A 000-18 or 000-28 are classics for a reason - the rosewood back and sides offer a warm, complex tone that works well with vocals. A 000-15M with mahogany back and sides will be drier and more focused.
The 0 is the most comfortable for many beginners. The smaller size is less intimidating and easier to control. As you progress, you can always move up to a larger size.
Rebacking means the back of the guitar has been replaced, usually due to cracks. It's not inherently bad, but it's a significant repair and usually affects the tone - often softening the high-end. Ask about the wood used for the replacement and get it checked out by a luthier.
