What Determines the Cost of a Martin Custom Shop Guitar?
A Martin Custom Shop guitar is priced based on its individual specifications rather than a fixed model number. Because each guitar is built to order, pricing varies depending on construction choices, tonewoods, playability specs, and cosmetic details.
At GuitarHotline, we help players understand where the money goes—so you can focus on tone and feel, not unnecessary extras.
This guide is part of our complete resource on Martin Custom Shop guitars.
What Does a Martin Custom Shop Guitar Cost?
Most Martin Custom Shop guitars are priced in line with other high-end, professional-grade acoustic guitars rather than mass-produced models.
Because Martin Custom Shop guitars are individually quoted, pricing is not published online and must be provided by an authorized dealer.
Final pricing depends on the exact combination of tonewoods, construction details, and cosmetic options selected.
Many players are surprised to learn that a thoughtfully specified Custom Shop guitar can be closer in price to a high-end production Martin than expected, especially when prioritizing sound and playability over decorative options.
Factors That Affect Martin Custom Shop Pricing
1) Body Size & Platform
The body style you choose sets the foundation for pricing. Common platforms include:
- Dreadnought
- OM / Orchestra Model
- 000 / 00
- Jumbo and slope-shoulder styles
Larger bodies and less common platforms may increase cost slightly due to materials and build complexity.
2) Tonewood Selection
Tonewoods are one of the biggest contributors to price.
Top Woods
- Sitka Spruce
- Adirondack Spruce
- European Spruce
Back & Side Woods
- Mahogany
- East Indian Rosewood
- Koa
- Guatemalan Rosewood
Premium, vintage-style, or limited-availability woods can raise the overall price—but often deliver significant tonal benefits.
Visit our Martin Custom Shop tonewood options page.
3) Bracing & Construction Details
Construction choices strongly influence both tone and cost. Options that may affect pricing include:
- Forward-shifted or scalloped bracing
- Adirondack bracing
- Traditional or vintage-inspired construction
- Hide glue or specialty assembly techniques
These specs are often chosen for responsiveness, headroom, and dynamic range.
4) Neck Specifications & Playability
Custom neck specs allow you to tailor comfort exactly to your hands. Pricing can be influenced by:
- Nut width (1 11/16", 1 3/4", etc.)
- Neck profile (Modified Low Oval, Authentic, vintage shapes)
- Scale length (long vs short scale)
For many players, this is the single most valuable part of the Custom Shop experience.
5) Finish & Cosmetic Appointments
Visual options affect pricing more than tone. Examples include:
- Binding materials
- Inlay styles
- Finish type
- Custom rosettes or purfling
We often advise customers to spend where it matters sonically and keep cosmetics tasteful and timeless.
Is a Martin Custom Shop Guitar Worth the Price?
For players who:
- Know what sound they’re chasing
- Want a specific neck feel
- Prefer vintage-inspired or discontinued specs
- Plan to keep the guitar long-term
…the answer is often yes.
A Martin Custom Shop guitar isn’t about excess—it’s about precision, personal fit, and long-term satisfaction.
Custom Shop vs Standard Series Pricing
Standard Series Martins
- Fixed specifications
- Consistent pricing
- Exceptional quality
Martin Custom Shop guitars
- Personalized tone and feel
- Flexible specs
- Individually quoted pricing
- Built one at a time
If you’ve ever said “I love this guitar, but I wish it had…” — the Custom Shop is designed for you.
Can Pricing Be Controlled?
Yes — and this is where working with the right dealer matters. At GuitarHotline, we help customers:
- Avoid unnecessary upcharges
- Choose woods wisely
- Prioritize tone over decoration
- Stay within a realistic budget
A smart Custom Shop build is about balance, not excess.
Pricing for Martin Custom Shop Guitars Already On Order
In some cases, we have Martin Custom Shop guitars already on order. Benefits include:
- Pre-approved specifications
- Known pricing
- Reduced or eliminated wait times
- Ability to reserve before arrival
View current instruments here: Martin Custom Shop guitars already on order.
How to Get an Accurate Martin Custom Shop Price
Because every build is unique, the only way to get an accurate price is through an Authorized Martin Custom Shop Dealer. We’ll:
- Discuss your goals and playing style
- Help finalize specifications
- Submit the build to Martin
- Provide a clear, upfront quote
- Guide you through the entire process
Learn more about the process here: How to Order a Martin Custom Shop Guitar
Why Work With GuitarHotline?
- Authorized Martin Custom Shop Dealer
- Decades of experience with Martin guitars
- Honest guidance on pricing and specs
- Direct communication with Martin
- Arrival photos and personal inspection
When you work with GuitarHotline, you’re not guessing—you’re making informed decisions.
Ready to Talk Pricing?
If you’re considering a Martin Custom Shop guitar and want a realistic price based on your ideas:
Call or email Mark Rohrer @ (888) 795-3582 or (317) 849-5744 or msrohrer@gmail.com
Tell him what you’re thinking. He’ll help you spec a guitar that sounds right, feels right, and makes sense financially.
GuitarHotline – Authorized Martin Custom Shop Dealer
For a full overview of options, pricing, and availability, visit our Martin Custom Shop guitars page.
Serving Musicians Since 1991