
( Brand: Martin ), ( Type: Acoustic Guitar ), ( UPC: 210000031932 )
The Martin R-17 acoustic-electric archtop guitar, model number 210000031932, is a special restoration edition from the esteemed Martin Guitar manufacturing company. This instrument is a meticulously crafted recreation of the rare and coveted 1934 R-17, which was originally designed to bridge the gap between Martin's flat-top and carved-top lines.
At its heart, the Martin R-17 boasts a striking mahogany top. This tonewood, renowned for its rich, warm, and expressive sound, is expertly selected and thinly braced to allow for the projection and resonance. Enhancing the mahogany top is a beautifully grained, cypress back, offering a striking visual contrast and a balanced tone.
In the spirit of maintaining authenticity, this restoration edition features an arched solid spruce rim and hand-carved Spanish cedar body sides. The guitar's neck is crafted from select mahogany with a 1-11/16" nut width, providing a comfortable playing experience for most hand sizes. Additionally, the fully adjustable truss rod ensures optimal neck alignment for precise intonation.
The Martin R-17's 25.4" scale length, 20-fret rosewood fingerboard, and 14" radius enable effortless playability and versatility. The guitar's nut and bridge are made of black Tusq a synthetic material with superior tonal qualities and durability compared to traditional materials.
Outfitted for the modern player, the Martin R-17 includes their innovative pre-amp system, the Fishman Sonitone, allowing for a balanced sound and easy volume and tone control. The highly responsive pickups capture the nuances and richness of the guitar's voice when amplified.
This beautiful instrument, with its distinctive, vintage sunburst finish, pays homage to the golden era of archtop guitars. Exuding class, character, and a sound that is truly unique, the Martin R-17 (Model 210000031932) restoration edition is an exquisite addition to any guitar collection for both its historical significance and exceptional musical abilities.
The Martin 1934 R-17 Archtop Guitar with Mahogany Top (Restoration Model) is a beautiful and rare piece of musical instrument history. It's essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before purchasing such an item.
Pros:1. Authentic historical instrument: This guitar embodies the classic Martin archtop design of the 1930s, providing a unique and authentic sound not found in modern guitars.
2. Quality craftsmanship: Martin is renowned for its top-notch guitar construction, ensuring a high-quality instrument with excellent playability and durability. In the case of a restoration model, the process guarantees expert attention to detail and restoration techniques.
3. Inimitable tone: The mahogany top contributes to the guitar's warm, rich tone with strong mid-range and clear attack - making it desirable for jazz, blues, and other genres.
4. Investment potential: Due to its rarity, the Martin 1934 R-17 Archtop Guitar with Mahogany Top (Restoration Model) may appreciate in value over time, making it an excellent investment for collectors.
5. Vintage look and feel: Its vintage appearance is sure to attract attention and evoke emotion in players and viewers alike, offering an unparalleled aesthetic value.
Cons:1. High price point: Given its historical significance and high-quality restoration, this guitar comes with a substantial price tag that may be outside the budget of many potential buyers.
2. Potential maintenance concerns: Vintage instruments like this one may require occasional maintenance and repairs to preserve their value and playability, which can be costly.
3. Sensitivity to environmental conditions: Older guitars can be more sensitive to humidity, temperature, and other environmental factors that may affect their sound and performance.
4. Limited availability: Due to its rarity, there may be fewer opportunities to test play the guitar or find one in perfect condition, which is critical when investing in such a valuable instrument.
Conclusion:When considering purchasing a Martin 1934 R-17 Archtop Guitar with Mahogany Top (Restoration Model), it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. The benefits include an authentic historical instrument, excellent craftsmanship, inimitable tone, investment potential, and vintage look and feel. However, the downsides include a high price point, potential maintenance concerns, sensitivity to environmental conditions, and limited availability.
Recommendation:If you are passionate about vintage instruments, have the financial means, and desire an authentic piece of music history to add to your collection, the Martin 1934 R-17 Archtop Guitar with Mahogany Top (Restoration Model) is an excellent investment. However, if you are a player seeking a primary instrument and are looking for a more cost-effective option, you may want to explore other vintage or new archtop guitars that offer similar tonal qualities and playability.
The action n was nice a nd low so I clear Ned it up and put Marti Mo Neal Nickel 12s on really surprised how great sounded easy to play. I strum nag it with indenturing first tuned to pitch. The neck was also reset a lo nag time ago and you can see squeeze out that look like it just did not get clear Ned off. Some ti ny divots o n the back of neck etc.
Its perfectly set accord nag to measure me nets. So its being sold AS IS a player to play as is or restore. The top was cracked a nd regaled at some time see photo stripped with true oil fie nosh. Beautiful Tone.
The good news is that when we four nd this I figured it was unplayable. MT back I n the day. For some reason n the bridge is glued to top maybe from a traveling musician.
The chips of old o NE were I n case. It has a number of repaired or tight small cracks. The pick guard is a retro I made USO nag the matt side to replicate Bakelite that was origin bally used. I do n't Thai NJ that kook wraps nd tailpiece is origin Neal but it might be.