Best Maton Other Acoustic Guitars 2026

Okay, so you're looking at Maton? Smart move. They're not the household name like Martin or Taylor, but for what you get, especially in this 'other' category, they're a serious contender. They've got a unique vibe - a blend of Australian craftsmanship and a willingness to experiment that sets them apart, particularly if you're chasing something with a bit more character than your standard dreadnought.

Last updated: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026

Maton J.R.Signature - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#1

Maton J.R.Signature

Creative Expression Custom Features Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This J.R. Signature is a serious instrument – the combination of the spruce top and Myrtle back creates a really articulate and resonant sound. Joe Robinson’s signature model delivers a comfortable neck profile and a pro-grade pickup system, making it ideal for gigging musicians who need a great acoustic voice both plugged in and out. It's a beautifully crafted guitar with a distinct Australian character.
PROS
  • • Solid AA Spruce top delivers exceptional clarity and projection.
  • • Tasmanian Myrtle back & sides offer a uniquely warm, complex tone.
  • • AP5 Pro pickup system provides a natural amplified sound with excellent feedback rejection.
  • • Grover Rotomatics ensure rock-solid tuning stability, a premium touch.
CONS
  • • The Tasmanian Myrtle can be visually polarizing - not universally appealing.
  • • Mahogany neck might feel a bit thick for players with smaller hands.
  • • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
4.7/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 510980
$3,079
Maton SRS808 - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#2

Maton SRS808

Unique Designs Alternative Styles Creative Expression
Key Feature:
The SRS808 is a beautifully crafted orchestra-style acoustic, offering a refined and balanced tone thanks to the solid timbers. The AP5 Pro pickup system is genuinely excellent for stage use, preserving the guitar's natural voice. This is a great choice for serious players who appreciate quality construction and a focused, articulate sound – especially those seeking a more traditional acoustic experience.
PROS
  • • Solid Australian blackwood back and sides deliver a rich, warm tonal foundation.
  • • Solid spruce top provides excellent projection and responsiveness across the dynamic range.
  • • Maton AP5 Pro pickup system offers a natural amplified tone with useful EQ controls.
  • • Queensland maple neck provides stability and a comfortable, familiar feel for experienced players.
CONS
  • • Orchestra body style might be less comfortable for some players with larger builds.
  • • Natural satin finish, while attractive, shows fingerprints and handling marks more easily.
  • • Premium-priced, placing it outside the budget of many aspiring musicians.
4.3/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 350495
$2,419
Maton ER90 Traditional - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#3

Maton ER90 Traditional

Custom Features Specialty Applications Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
The ER90 Traditional is a beautifully crafted instrument. Its balanced tone and comfortable neck make it ideal for fingerstyle players and those seeking a refined acoustic voice. This Maton is a serious contender for the discerning player who appreciates high-quality Australian craftsmanship.
PROS
  • • Solid rosewood back/sides deliver rich, complex overtones.
  • • Sitka spruce top provides excellent projection and clarity.
  • • Mahogany neck offers comfortable feel and warm tonal character.
  • • Maton AP5 Pro pickup system delivers natural amplified sound.
CONS
  • • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
  • • OM body shape might not suit players preferring larger soundboxes.
  • • Satin finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can feel less luxurious.
4.5/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 579199
$3,629
Maton EBG808 Tommy Emmanuel - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#4

Maton EBG808 Tommy Emmanuel

Experimental Music Unique Designs Creative Expression
Key Feature:
This Maton EBG808 Tommy Emmanuel is a beautifully crafted instrument, designed for players who appreciate a warm, focused tone and comfortable feel. The maple construction delivers a mature, woody voice, perfect for fingerstyle and nuanced playing. It’s a premium-priced option best suited for serious acoustic guitarists seeking a signature-level instrument.
PROS
  • • Solid Queensland maple provides a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
  • • AP5Pro pickup system delivers a clear, amplified sound with excellent feedback rejection.
  • • The 12in fretboard radius and 44.1mm nut width enhance playability and comfort.
  • • Immaculate Australian craftsmanship ensures exceptional build quality and longevity.
CONS
  • • The solid maple construction makes it a relatively heavy instrument.
  • • The Queensland maple back and sides limit tonal versatility compared to more exotic woods.
  • • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many players.
4.5/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 440638
$3,134
Maton EBG808C Michael Fix /w Case - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#5

Maton EBG808C Michael Fix /w Case

Creative Expression Experimental Music Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
The Maton EBG808C Michael Fix is a beautifully crafted instrument offering a refined and balanced acoustic voice. It's ideal for discerning players seeking a high-end, Australian-made guitar with excellent amplified capabilities – perfect for fingerstyle, contemporary folk, or studio recording where a controlled, articulate sound is key.
PROS
  • • Solid Queensland maple back/sides deliver a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
  • • Michael Fix signature voicing offers a balanced, articulate response across the spectrum.
  • • Ebony fretboard provides exceptional clarity, sustain, and a smooth playing experience.
  • • Maton AP5 Pro system provides a high-quality amplified sound with natural tone.
CONS
  • • Queensland maple can be slightly less 'open' sounding than some spruce/mahogany combinations.
  • • The 44.1mm nut width might feel a little wider for players accustomed to smaller necks.
  • • Premium-priced, positioning it beyond the reach of many beginner or casual players.
4.7/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 239747
$3,244
Maton EBG808 Nashville - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#6

Maton EBG808 Nashville

Creative Expression Custom Features Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
The EBG808 Nashville is a beautifully crafted instrument with a voice that’s both powerful and nuanced. The combination of Spruce and Blackwood creates a warm, articulate tone perfect for fingerstyle players and those seeking a refined, vintage-inspired acoustic. It’s a serious guitar for the discerning player who appreciates premium materials and build quality.
PROS
  • • Solid AA Spruce top delivers exceptional clarity and projection across the spectrum.
  • • Australian Blackwood back & sides offer a warm, complex tone with excellent sustain.
  • • Maton AP5PRO pickup system provides a natural amplified sound with impressive feedback rejection.
  • • Queensland Maple neck with Ebony fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience and refined feel.
CONS
  • • The solid Blackwood construction makes it a premium-priced instrument, a significant investment.
  • • Orchestra body shape can feel slightly large for players with smaller frames.
  • • While versatile, its tone leans towards a warmer, more focused sound; not ideal for extreme genres.
4.6/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 523082
$2,969
Maton EMD/6 Diesel Signature /w Case - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#7

Maton EMD/6 Diesel Signature /w Case

Creative Expression Unique Designs Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
This Diesel Signature Maton is a beautifully crafted instrument. The smaller body is surprisingly full-sounding thanks to the blackwood, and the AP5 Pro makes it stage-ready. It’s ideal for singer-songwriters or players wanting a refined, focused acoustic tone without the bulk of a dreadnought.
PROS
  • • Solid blackwood back & sides deliver a rich, warm, and resonant tone.
  • • Queensland maple neck provides excellent sustain and comfortable playability.
  • • Maton AP5 Pro pickup system offers a balanced, amplified sound with good clarity.
  • • Mini Maton body shape is comfortable for smaller players and stage performance.
CONS
  • • The matte natural finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to fingerprints.
  • • The shorter scale length might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
  • • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many acoustic guitarists.
4.7/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 239870
$2,309
Maton EBW808 Blackwood - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#8

Maton EBW808 Blackwood

Custom Features Unique Designs Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
The EBW808 is a beautifully crafted instrument. The blackwood provides a warm, resonant tone, while the AP5 Pro system makes it stage-ready. This is ideal for discerning players seeking a refined acoustic with a touch of Australian craftsmanship – particularly appealing to fingerstyle players and those wanting a sophisticated amplified voice.
PROS
  • • Solid blackwood back & sides deliver rich, complex overtones.
  • • Queensland maple neck provides exceptional clarity and sustain.
  • • Maton AP5 Pro pickup system offers balanced amplified tone.
  • • Ebony fretboard and Grover tuners ensure smooth playability and intonation.
CONS
  • • Small OM body may lack projection for larger performance venues.
  • • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
  • • Blackwood can be sensitive to humidity fluctuations; requires care.
4.5/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 420745
$2,629
Maton EBG808C Nashville - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#9

Maton EBG808C Nashville

Alternative Styles Custom Features Unique Designs
Key Feature:
This Maton EBG808C is a serious instrument, built with premium Australian tonewoods. It’s got a refined, articulate voice perfect for fingerstyle players and those seeking a rich, full sound for recording. If you’re looking for a high-end, locally-made acoustic with excellent amplified capabilities, this is a fantastic choice.
PROS
  • • Solid AA spruce top delivers exceptional projection and shimmering high-end response.
  • • Australian blackwood back and sides provide a warm, focused, and complex tonal character.
  • • Maton AP5PRO pickup system offers a natural amplified tone with excellent feedback rejection.
  • • Queensland maple neck ensures stability and a comfortable, responsive playing feel.
CONS
  • • The solid wood construction makes it relatively heavy, potentially tiring for extended playing sessions.
  • • The 44.1mm nut width might feel narrow for players accustomed to wider necks.
  • • The vintage amber burst satin finish, while beautiful, can be prone to fingerprints.
4.4/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 411945
$3,079
Maton EBG808A w/ Case - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#10

Maton EBG808A w/ Case

Custom Features Specialty Applications Experimental Music
Key Feature:
The EBG808A is a seriously refined instrument – the combination of the spruce top and blackwood back creates a warm, responsive voice with plenty of headroom. It's a fantastic choice for players seeking a high-end acoustic with amplified capabilities, particularly those who appreciate a comfortable neck profile and a professional-grade pickup system. This guitar excels for fingerstyle and more delicate playing, but can hold its own with a more aggressive strumming style.
PROS
  • • Solid blackwood back & sides deliver rich, complex overtones and sustain.
  • • AAA spruce top provides exceptional clarity and projection for nuanced playing.
  • • Maton AP5PRO pickup system offers a natural amplified tone with useful controls.
  • • Queensland maple neck provides excellent stability and a comfortable, familiar feel.
CONS
  • • Orchestra body shape might be slightly large for smaller players.
  • • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
  • • Natural matte finish may require more careful handling to avoid scratches.
4.4/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 244174
$3,244
Maton EM100 808 Messiah - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#11

Maton EM100 808 Messiah

Custom Features Unique Designs Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
The Maton EM100 808 Messiah is a beautifully crafted instrument, boasting a powerful voice and excellent amplified response. It's ideal for serious acoustic players and performers who want a premium instrument with a warm, articulate tone and a comfortable neck profile. This is a top-tier option for those seeking a high-end acoustic guitar with stage-ready electronics.
PROS
  • • Solid rosewood back & sides deliver rich, complex overtones and sustain.
  • • Maton AP5 pickup system provides clear, amplified tone with excellent feedback rejection.
  • • Mahogany neck offers comfortable feel and contributes to a warm, balanced voice.
  • • Ebony fretboard provides smooth playability and enhances note clarity.
CONS
  • • High-gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and may dampen the acoustic resonance slightly.
  • • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many players.
  • • The 808 body shape might feel slightly large for players with smaller frames.
4.9/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 446833
$4,069
Maton EBG808C Artist - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#12

Maton EBG808C Artist

Unique Designs Specialty Applications Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
The EBG808C is a beautifully crafted instrument, a real showcase of Australian tonewoods. It's got that focused, articulate voice you want for fingerstyle and lighter strumming, with a surprisingly full low end thanks to the Blackwood. If you're a serious player seeking a refined, high-quality acoustic with excellent amplified capabilities, this Maton is worth a close look.
PROS
  • • AAA Spruce top delivers exceptional clarity and projection.
  • • Solid Blackwood back/sides offer rich, warm overtones and sustain.
  • • Maton AP5PRO pickup system provides articulate amplified sound, stage-ready.
  • • Queensland Maple neck provides stability and a comfortable, responsive feel.
CONS
  • • The natural matte finish may not appeal to players preferring glossier aesthetics.
  • • Orchestra body shape limits versatility compared to dreadnoughts for certain styles.
  • • Premium-priced, represents a significant investment for many players.
4.7/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 615209
$3,509
Maton Troubadour Mini - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#13

Maton Troubadour Mini

Alternative Styles Experimental Music Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The Maton Troubadour Mini is a beautifully crafted instrument – the solid maple back and spruce top combo delivers a surprisingly mature voice for its size. The AP5 PRO pickup is a real winner for stage work, and the ebony fingerboard makes it a joy to play. It's ideal for traveling musicians, singer-songwriters, or anyone wanting a high-quality, compact acoustic with excellent amplified tones.
PROS
  • • Solid maple back/sides deliver a focused, articulate tone.
  • • AP5 PRO pickup offers clear, amplified sound with excellent feedback rejection.
  • • Ebony fingerboard provides smooth playability and crisp note definition.
  • • Grover Rotomatnics ensure precise tuning stability and a premium feel.
CONS
  • • Mini-dreadnought size limits low-end response compared to full-size guitars.
  • • Tobacco Sunburst finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints.
  • • Premium-priced, placing it outside the budget of many beginner guitarists.
4.6/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 602591
$2,419
Maton EBW808C Blackwood - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#14

Maton EBW808C Blackwood

Custom Features Unique Designs Creative Expression
Key Feature:
The EBW808C is a beautifully crafted instrument offering a sophisticated, warm tone and excellent amplified performance. This guitar is ideal for discerning players seeking a comfortable, versatile, and high-quality acoustic – particularly those who appreciate a balanced sound and refined aesthetics. It’s a premium choice for fingerstyle players and those who need a great amplified acoustic for smaller venues.
PROS
  • • Australian Blackwood provides a rich, warm, and resonant tone.
  • • The AP5 Pro pickup system delivers a natural amplified sound with excellent feedback rejection.
  • • Ebony fretboard and maple neck offer a smooth, fast playing experience and stability.
  • • Small OM body size provides comfortable ergonomics for various playing styles and body sizes.
CONS
  • • Blackwood can be a slightly less bright tonewood, potentially lacking for some brighter styles.
  • • Premium-priced, limiting accessibility for budget-conscious players.
  • • Smaller body size may lack the projection of larger dreadnought models in louder settings.
4.7/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 480912
$2,617
Maton EM100C 808 Messiah - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#15

Maton EM100C 808 Messiah

Custom Features Experimental Music Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
The EM100C 808 Messiah is a serious instrument, built with premium materials that translate to a beautifully balanced tone. The AP5 Pro pickups make it stage-ready without sacrificing acoustic character—perfect for gigging singer-songwriters or players seeking a high-end acoustic with a touch of Maton’s unique design flair.
PROS
  • • Solid Sitka top delivers a balanced, responsive dynamic range.
  • • East Indian rosewood back/sides add warmth and sustain.
  • • Maton AP5 Pro pickups offer clear, amplified tone with minimal feedback.
  • • Mahogany neck provides a comfortable, familiar feel for experienced players.
CONS
  • • High-gloss finish can feel a little thick and potentially impact natural resonance.
  • • No heel cap on the neck might be uncomfortable for some players’ preferred playing style.
  • • Rosewood fretboard requires diligent care to prevent fret sprout over time.
4.7/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 380246
$4,179

How to Choose the Best Other Acoustic Guitars

1

Tone

Matons often have a warmer, more immediate response than some of the brighter American brands. That's partly thanks to the Queensland Maple back and sides, which adds a lovely low-midrange thump without getting muddy. It cuts through a mix nicely, especially when you're playing with a full band.

2

Neck Profile

They're known for comfortable, often slightly slimmer neck profiles than you might expect on a guitar of this build quality. This makes them surprisingly accessible, even if you're used to a chunkier feel. It's a real plus for players who want responsiveness without fatigue.

3

Build Quality & Materials

The Queensland Maple is the key differentiator. It's a beautiful, resonant tonewood, and Maton's commitment to using it consistently shows in the overall build. Finish work is generally excellent, though you might find some minor inconsistencies that aren't quite up to the level of a high-end Martin.

4

Electronics (When Equipped)

Maton's pickup systems are decent - not industry-leading, but well-voiced for acoustic amplification. They avoid that harsh, ice-picky top-end you sometimes get with cheaper systems, opting for a more natural, balanced sound. Headroom is good, meaning you can push them without getting nasty breakup.

5

Sustain & Articulation

You get a surprising amount of sustain for a guitar that isn't a massive jumbo. The combination of the tonewoods and the bracing patterns allows for clear articulation, making complex fingerpicking patterns and fast strumming patterns sound defined, not just a wash of sound.

Buying Guide

Look, you're paying for something a little different. The Queensland Maple is the key - it's what gives Matons their signature warmth. Be realistic about expectations; they're not flawless, and you might find some minor cosmetic quirks, especially on the more affordable models. The action can sometimes be a little high out of the box, so a professional setup is almost always worth the investment to unlock the guitar's full potential.

Our Methodology

We're not just looking at spec sheets here. We put these guitars through the ringer: bedroom practice, band rehearsals, recording sessions, and even a few club gigs. We A/B them against guitars in similar price ranges - comparing tone, feel, and how they sit in a mix. It's about finding out what they actually do, not what the marketing materials claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not always. They're becoming more available, but you'll likely have to search online or find a dealer specializing in imported instruments. Availability fluctuates.
Matons offer a warmer, more immediate tone than many Martins and a bit more sustain than some Taylors. They fill a niche - a player who wants something with character and a distinct Australian flavor.
It's a tonewood native to Queensland, Australia. It contributes to the warm low-midrange and resonant qualities that define the Maton sound. It's not as readily available as mahogany or spruce, which is why it's a signature feature.
Absolutely. The warm tone and balanced response make them very versatile in the studio. They pair well with a variety of microphones and recording techniques. Just be mindful of mic placement to capture that low-midrange warmth properly.
While they're fantastic guitars, a Maton might be a bit of an investment for a complete beginner. There are perfectly good, more affordable options to learn on. However, if you're serious about acoustic guitar and want something special from the start, it's not out of the question.

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