
( Brand: Martin Custom Shop ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: CS-OM ), ( Model: CS-OM TRUE NORTH-16 ), ( Part Type: Acoustic Guitar ), ( Dexterity: Right-handed ), ( String Configuration: 6 String ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States ), ( UPC: 0729789507615 )
The Martin CS-OM Northamerica 16 Guitar is an exceptional acoustic instrument from the venerable Martin Guitar Company. This particular model, identified by the item number 0729789507615, falls under the CS-Series, which is Martin's line of affordable, yet high-quality guitars.
The CS-OM Northamerica 16 takes inspiration from Martin's popular OM-series bodies, featuring a 000-14 fret body size that offers a versatile and comfortable playing experience. The top of this guitar is made of Solid Sitka Spruce, a material renowned for its ability to produce a strong, clear, and resonant tone. It is supported by a Neil Keenan/Non-Scalloped X-Bracing design, crafted to distribute the string tension evenly and enhance the overall resonance and sustain of the top.
The CS-OM Northamerica 16's sides and back are crafted from responsive and durable Sapele wood. Known for its rich, warm, and mellow tone, Sapele is a popular choice for guitar makers seeking a more cost-effective alternative to Rosewood. Martin has used it effectively to maintain the instrument's sonic integrity while keeping the production costs within an accessible price point.
A Comfort-14 F Retro Bracing pattern and High-Performance Taper configured neck contribute to the instrument's overall comfort and playability. Featuring a 1-11/16 inches width at the nut, this guitar is well-suited for players with average to smaller hand sizes or those preferring a more intimate playing experience. Additionally, the Quantum ITG (Integrated Tapers) Tuning Gears provide improved tuning stability and smooth, efficient tuning action.
The fingerboard and bridge are made from Richlite, an eco-friendly, polished, and durable material that offers a look and feel akin to ebony. Richlite, not derived from endangered rainforests, is a responsible alternative to traditional ebony. With its sleek appearance and superior performance, it enhances the overall quality of this CS-OM Northamerica 16 acoustic guitar.
Furthermore, the Martin CS-OM Northamerica 16 comes standard with Fishman's Sonitone electronics. This discrete and low-profile pickup system offers a reliable acoustic tone when plugged into an amplification system, allowing artists to perform live while accurately delivering the unique tone of their Martin guitar.
Summing up, the Martin CS-OM Northamerica 16 Guitar, with item number 0729789507615, is a fantastic choice for those seeking an authentic Martin guitar experience at an approachable price point. Featuring a solid Sitka Spruce top, Sapele sides and back, eco-friendly Richlite fingerboard and bridge, and elegant design elements, this instrument offers a rich and expressive tonal palette for the aspiring and seasoned player alike.
1. High-Quality Construction: The Martin CS-OM-16 features solid mahogany back and sides, along with a solid Sitka spruce top, ensuring excellent tone and durability.
2. Versatile Sound: The size of this guitar (Little Martin) brings you Martin's iconic tonal qualities in a more compact body, making it suitable for various musical genres and playing styles.
3. FSC Certified Wood: The use of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood ensures that the raw materials are sourced sustainably, contributing to the protection of forests and responsible practices.
4. Affordable: Compared to its full-sized counterparts, the CS-OM-16 offers a more affordable price point, making it an attractive option for beginners and hobbyists.
5. Polished Finish: The guitar boasts an elegant and robust satin finish that both looks great and allows for better resonance and sound transfer.
Cons:1. Scale Length: The shorter scale length (23.9 inches) might be less comfortable for players more accustomed to standard guitars (25.5 inches).
2. Action Setup: The guitar might require some setup work to achieve optimal action height, which could be an additional cost.
3. Size: Being a compact guitar, the size may not appeal to those seeking a larger instrument for playing styles that rely heavily on a fuller sound.
Conclusion:The Martin CS-OM-16 000-14 FSC Solid Mahogany Acoustic Guitar is a reliable and affordable choice for those looking for a tone-rich and versatile guitar in a smaller package. Its high-quality construction, durable materials, and well-known Martin craftsmanship set it apart from many other guitars in its class. However, some players may find the shorter scale length and compact size less appealing. Despite these small drawbacks, the CS-OM-16 bears the iconic Martin sound in a more accessible and budget-friendly offering.
Recommendation:If the features and pros noted above align with your preferences and requirements, then the Martin CS-OM-16 000-14 FSC Solid Mahogany Acoustic Guitar is a solid and highly recommended option. For those seeking a larger instrument or unsure about the shorter scale length, it would be advisable to explore other alternatives before making a final decision. However, for beginner and intermediate players looking for a high-quality, compact, and affordable acoustic guitar, the CS-OM-16 makes a fantastic choice.
Dovetail neck joint with hide glue construction 14th fret neck body joint body size solid Adirondack spruce top figured KIA back and sides Adirondack spruce scalloped x bracing Custom rosette with abalone multi stripe top inlay grained ivories binding genuine mahogany neck with modified low oval profile black ebony fret board abalone concave square outline squares fret board inlay neck profile at nut.
Only fifty of these guitars were made, so insure to be a collectors piece just as much as it is a fantastic sounding instrument neck profile at 12th fret slotted head stock ebony head plate with mother of pearl true north inlay nut width 16 radius 25.