Custom Shop Build Overview

This Martin Custom Shop M-36 Style 0000 is part of a special run of instruments created from tonewoods personally selected during a visit to the Martin factory in October 2024. Each guitar in this run was built using carefully chosen materials with an emphasis on stiffness, responsiveness, and tonal clarity.

This particular instrument features a hand-selected Adirondack spruce top paired with East Indian rosewood back and sides with a striking koa wedge. The Adirondack top provides exceptional headroom and projection, allowing the guitar to remain clear and articulate even when played aggressively.

The M (0000) body size offers a unique tonal balance that many players prefer over larger dreadnought designs. With a wider lower bout and shallower depth than a dreadnought, the 0000 body produces strong projection and bass response while maintaining excellent note clarity and separation.

Why the 0000 / M Body Works So Well

The Martin M body combines the power of larger guitars with the articulation of smaller instruments. This makes it a versatile choice for many styles of playing.

Wide dynamic range with excellent projection
Balanced bass response without the boominess of larger bodies
Clear note separation for complex chord voicings
Comfortable body size for extended playing sessions

When paired with a responsive Adirondack top, the result is a guitar that feels lively and powerful while maintaining excellent clarity across the fretboard.

Custom Shop Craftsmanship

Handcrafted in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, this Custom Shop build incorporates Martin’s traditional dovetail neck joint and solid tonewood construction to maximize resonance and long-term stability.

The elegant M-36 styling is complemented by a beautiful koa wedge running through the East Indian rosewood back, adding both visual character and boutique Custom Shop appeal.

The Golden Era scalloped Adirondack bracing enhances responsiveness and dynamic range, allowing the top to move freely while producing a powerful and balanced voice.

Playability & Feel

The comfortable GE Modified Low Oval neck profile paired with a 1 3/4" nut width offers modern playability while maintaining the familiar feel many Martin players prefer.

The ebony fingerboard and bridge contribute strong note definition and durability, while bone nut and saddle components help maximize sustain and tonal transfer.