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: July 8, 2026 • Next update: July 15, 2026
⚡ The best other acoustic guitars in 2026 are Maton ER90 Traditional (top pick), Maton EBG808C Tommy Emmanuel w/ Case for tighter budgets, and Maton EMD/6 Diesel Signature /w Case for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $2,308–$4,178, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Maton ER90 Traditional
by
Maton
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
#2
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Maton EBG808C Tommy Emmanuel w/ Case
by
Maton
Experimental Music
Creative Expression
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This EBG808C is a serious instrument, built for players who demand a refined tone and excellent playability. The solid maple back and sides give it a warm, focused voice perfect for intricate fingerstyle work like Tommy Emmanuel’s signature style, and the AP5 Pro pickup ensures it sounds great plugged in. It's a premium-priced guitar suited for dedicated performers and serious enthusiasts.
PROS
- • Solid Queensland maple back/sides deliver focused, resonant tone.
- • Sitka spruce top provides clarity and projection for complex fingerstyle.
- • AP5 Pro pickup system offers natural amplified sound with excellent feedback rejection.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides smooth playability and sustain; a real luxury.
CONS
- • Queensland maple can make the guitar relatively dense; may be tiring for extended play.
- • The natural satin finish, while beautiful, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
- • The orchestra body shape might feel slightly large for smaller players.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 456323
$3,189
#3
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Maton EMD/6 Diesel Signature /w Case
by
Maton
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
#4
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Maton SRS808
by
Maton
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
#5
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Maton EM100 808 Messiah
by
Maton
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
#6
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Maton EBW808 Blackwood
by
Maton
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
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Maton SRS808C
by
Maton
Alternative Styles
Specialty Applications
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The SRS808C is a beautifully crafted instrument, offering a balanced tone with plenty of warmth and clarity. It's ideal for fingerstyle players and those seeking a refined acoustic voice, amplified or unamplified, with a comfortable neck profile and a professional pickup system. This is a serious guitar for the discerning player who appreciates quality and craftsmanship.
PROS
- • Solid blackwood back/sides deliver rich, complex overtones.
- • Spruce top provides excellent projection and clarity.
- • Maton AP5 Pro pickup system offers a natural amplified tone.
- • Queensland maple neck ensures stability and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • The natural matte finish might show fingerprints easily.
- • Orchestra body shape limits low-end response for aggressive styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 355500
$2,419
#8
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Maton EBW808C Blackwood
by
Maton
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
#9
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Maton EBG808C Artist
by
Maton
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
#10
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Maton Troubadour Mini
by
Maton
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
#11
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Maton J.R.Signature
by
Maton
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
#12
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Maton Troubadour Traditional
by
Maton
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
The Troubadour Traditional is a beautifully crafted OM guitar, offering a refined, mature tone. The solid woods and Grover tuners elevate the feel and sound, making it a fantastic choice for discerning fingerstyle players or those seeking a balanced, articulate acoustic voice. It's a serious instrument for the committed player.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers articulate projection and shimmering highs.
- • Solid maple back/sides offer focused warmth and balanced tonal response.
- • AP5 Pro pickup provides a clean, amplified signal with excellent feedback rejection.
- • Ebony fingerboard and Grover Rotomatic tuners enhance playability and precision.
CONS
- • The solid maple construction can sound slightly less 'open' than rosewood alternatives.
- • The satin finish, while attractive, may show fingerprints more readily.
- • Premium-priced, placing it outside the budget of many aspiring players.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 602589
$3,299
#13
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Maton The Performer
by
Maton
Specialty Applications
Creative Expression
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The Performer 808C is a beautifully crafted instrument with a voice all its own. Bunya's unique tonal character combined with the maple back and sides creates a balanced and resonant sound, ideal for fingerstyle players and those seeking a refined acoustic tone. It’s a premium-priced guitar that rewards the serious player with exceptional build quality and a truly special feel.
PROS
- • Bunya top delivers a uniquely warm, complex, and articulate tone.
- • Solid Queensland maple back/sides provide excellent projection and sustain.
- • AP5pro pickup system offers a natural amplified sound with useful controls.
- • Ivory binding and mosaic rosette showcase exceptional craftsmanship and premium aesthetics.
CONS
- • Bunya wood can be less common and may affect long-term availability.
- • The 25.5” scale might feel slightly less comfortable for players preferring shorter scales.
- • The natural matte finish, while visually appealing, might require more careful maintenance.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 619480
$2,309
#14
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Maton EBG808A w/ Case
by
Maton
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
#15
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Maton EM100C 808 Messiah
by
Maton
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.
