Martin 11D10E-01 Acoustic Guitar: Full Review

The Martin 11D10E-01 is an acoustic-electric Grand Auditorium model from renowned American guitar brand Martin Guitars. Martin is one of the most respected names in acoustic guitars, with a long history dating back to 1833 - making it one of the oldest guitar brands in the world.

The 11D10E-01 is part of Martin’s Performing Artist series, which offers pro-level features and quality construction aimed at gigging musicians who need amplified acoustic tone. The Grand Auditorium body style provides a versatile balance of volume, comfort and tone. Paired with Martin’s high-end electronics and Fishman pickup system, the 11D10E-01 delivers top-tier amplified performance worthy of the Martin name.

Overall, the 11D10E-01 offers professional musicians the perfect blend of Martin’s signature acoustic sound and modern amplified versatility. This review will take an in-depth look at the construction, sound, playability and other features of this impressive acoustic-electric guitar.

Construction and Materials

The Martin 11D10E-01 is constructed with premium tonewoods to deliver exceptional acoustic sound and performance. The top is made of solid Sitka spruce, which provides crisp articulation and a nicely balanced tone across the tonal spectrum.

The back and sides are crafted from solid genuine mahogany, giving the 11D10E-01 a smooth midrange, pleasant highs and tight low end. Mahogany generates a warmer, more textured acoustic tone that brings out complexity and nuance.

The neck is also made from mahogany for tonal consistency with the back and sides. The wood contributes to balanced resonance and sustain. The fingerboard uses solid blackwood, an excellent fretting surface known for stability and playability.

Finally, the 11D10E-01 has a solid blackwood bridge and compensated Tusq saddle. This premium combination delivers vibrant and highly responsive string vibration transfer for excellent tone and articulation. Overall, the all-solid wood construction produces professional grade acoustic sound.

When selecting an acoustic-electric guitar, it's important to consider the construction and materials used. The wood choices affect the guitar's tone, resonance and playability. Solid wood tops like spruce are known for their balanced and articulate sound. Mahogany backs and sides add warmth and complexity. Neck and fingerboard woods contribute to feel, stability and sustain.

Bridge and saddle materials also impact tone and resonance. Higher quality woods like ebony and rosewood allow for better string vibration transfer. Plastics like Tusq mimic some of these properties at lower costs. Premium metals can also be used for the saddle.

In addition to the tonewoods, examine the guitar's bracing and finish. Scalloped or asymmetrical bracing patterns affect resonance and projection. Gloss, satin and matte finishes impact the wood's vibration. Consider the tone you want when selecting these specifications.

Electronics are another key factor for acoustic-electric guitars. The pickup and preamp settings greatly influence amplified sound. Look for high quality pickups like the Fishman Prefix Plus with blend controls. Tone shaping options allow versatility for different playing styles and venues.

Finally, don't forget to try the guitar in person. Listen and feel how the construction and materials come together. As described in this Vangoa Basic VDS-13 review, even budget-friendly models can provide quality sound and playability if thoughtfully crafted.

When researching acoustic-electric guitars, examine the specifications but also trust your ears. Make sure the materials produce the tone and response you want. With the right construction choices, you can find an inspiring instrument at any price point.

The choice of tonewoods is critical for any acoustic guitar, as the wood greatly impacts the sound production and tonal characteristics. Solid wood is regarded as the best option for serious players, providing richer, more complex tones compared to laminate alternatives. The Martin 11D10E-01 utilizes all solid woods for the top, back, sides and neck. This all-solid build produces full-bodied acoustic resonance and sustain.

Sitka spruce is among the most popular traditional tonewoods for acoustic guitar tops. Its stiffness and lightness help project sound with clarity. Mahogany backs and sides boost warmth and sweetness. Together, these woods create a nicely balanced tonal profile. The neck wood also affects sustain and resonance. Opting for mahogany provides tonal cohesion from neck to body.

Beyond the tonewoods, other specifications like the bridge, saddle and fretboard further influence an acoustic guitar's sound. The Martin 11D10E-01 uses quality blackwood and Tusq components to optimize vibration transfer and playability. Even small details make a difference when crafting an exceptional acoustic guitar.

Acoustic players looking for a different premium option may want to check out the Fender 970115021. This all-solid dreadnought acoustic guitar utilizes a Sitka spruce top with mahogany back and sides. It also features a mahogany neck, rosewood fretboard, bone nut and saddle, and die-cast tuning machines. Fender is known for making quality acoustics with balanced tone and singing sustain.

When researching acoustic guitars, taking the time to understand how different woods and components affect the sound is advisable. All-solid wood construction from quality tonewoods is ideal for discerning players. And considering options from top brands like Martin and Fender can help narrow the search for that perfect acoustic tone.

When selecting an acoustic guitar, it's important to consider the tonewoods used and how they impact the sound. Solid wood construction from quality tonewoods like spruce, mahogany and blackwood will produce better resonance, articulation and tonal balance. While laminate and alternative woods can work well for budget models, the 11D10E-01 uses premium solid woods for pro-level acoustic performance.

For players looking for a more affordable option, the Vangoa Basic VDS-13 is a great choice. It features a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides. The neck is also mahogany for tonal cohesion. While not all solid woods like the Martin, the VDS-13 still delivers balanced tone and good articulation. The Fishman pickup provides quality plugged-in sound too.

At around $200, the Vangoa Basic VDS-13 gives you great bang for your buck if you're on a tight budget. It makes some smart tonewood choices to emulate the sound of more expensive models. While it won't match the rich resonance of the all-solid Martin, it's impressive for the price. The VDS-13 is perfect for beginner and intermediate players looking for great acoustic tone without breaking the bank.

Sound and Tone

The Martin D-10E has a classic Martin dreadnought tone with excellent projection and volume thanks to its solid spruce top. The combination of solid spruce and solid mahogany back and sides produces a balanced tone across the tonal spectrum - bright and crisp trebles from the spruce, warm midrange from the mahogany, and rich bass.

The dreadnought body shape allows the guitar to resonate freely, resulting in excellent sustain. Notes ring out with clarity. The solid wood construction also contributes to the guitar's excellent resonance.

Overall, the D-10E produces a versatile, well-rounded acoustic tone. It has the punchy bass, clear mids, and bright treble that Martin dreadnoughts are known for. The all-solid wood construction gives it a rich, full voice that projects well whether strumming rhythms or fingerpicking melodies. The guitar's design and tonewood combination make it a great choice for any style, from country and folk to rock and pop.

If you're looking for another quality dreadnought acoustic guitar, check out the Fender 0970722008. This all-solid-wood guitar features a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, like the Martin D-10E. It produces a balanced, warm tone with great resonance and sustain. The dreadnought body provides volume and projection. Overall, the 0970722008 has a versatile sound suitable for many musical genres. Its Fishman electronics give it stage-ready amplified tones as well. This Fender acoustic is an excellent alternative if you love the Martin dreadnought sound but want to spend a bit less. While not exactly equivalent, it provides great bang for your buck.

The Fender 0370125557 acoustic-electric guitar also produces a nicely balanced tone with crisp highs, warm mids and full low end. The solid spruce top provides brightness and articulation, while the mahogany back and sides add depth and resonance. The slim neck profile and low action facilitate intricate fingerstyle playing. The Fishman electronics accurately convey the guitar's natural tone. Overall, the 0370125557 is an excellent choice for an acoustic-electric guitar that sounds great both plugged in and unplugged. It's comfortable to play and suitable for many musical genres. For more details on this model, check out this link: Fender 0370125557

When comparing the Martin D-10E to the Fender 0370125557, they have some similarities in their acoustic tone but also some differences. Both guitars use solid spruce tops and mahogany bodies to produce balanced tone with good bass, mids and treble. However, the Martin may have a bit more bass emphasis and a slightly warmer sound, while the Fender leans toward more articulate highs and mids. The Martin's dreadnought body yields powerful projection, while the Fender has a comfortable slim neck for intricate playing. Both are excellent acoustic-electric guitars, but the Martin excels at rhythm playing and the Fender at fingerstyle. The choice between them comes down to playing style, genre and personal tonal preferences.

Playability

The Martin D-10E has a smooth and comfortable neck profile that most players will find very playable. The neck has a low oval shape that feels great in the hand.

The string action on this guitar is set very well from the factory. The action is low enough for comfortable chording and fast lead playing, yet still has enough height to avoid buzzing on the frets. Players who like a very low action may want to get it set up, but it has a nice medium action out of the box.

The fretwork from Martin is impeccable as expected. The frets are smoothly finished with no sharp edges. Bending strings and sliding up and down the neck feels effortless. The nut slots are cut just right so there is no binding in the nut when using a capo. Overall the playability of the D-10E is fantastic.

Electronics and Controls

The Martin 11D10E-01 features Martin's state-of-the-art Fishman® Sonitone electronics. This includes a Fishman Sonitone soundhole pickup and Fishman Sonicore preamp system, designed specifically for acoustic instruments.

The preamp provides discrete treble, midrange, and bass EQ controls which allow you to shape the amplified tone to your preferences. The midrange control in particular helps you boost or cut mid frequencies, letting you dial in just the right amount of body and punch.

The Sonitone system also utilizes Fishman's Smart Feedback Rejector technology, which uses phase cancellation to suppress feedback before it occurs. This allows you to maximize volume without sacrificing tonal quality.

Overall, the electronics package on the 11D10E-01 gives you great amplified tone and flexibility. The preamp and EQ let you craft your ideal sound, while the feedback rejection enables you to play at higher volumes on stage. Martin selected top-tier components to make this an excellent amplified performer.

Hardware

The Martin 11D10E-01 features quality hardware that adds to its overall playability and functionality.

• Tuning Machines: This guitar has sealed die-cast chrome tuning machines with pearloid buttons. They keep the guitar in tune very well and have a smooth turning action. The contemporary style looks great against the vintage vibe of the guitar.

• Bridge Pins: The bridge pins are made from white Tusq, an engineered composite that adds clarity and articulation. Tusq is stiffer than bone, producing a brighter tone while still having a natural feel. The material contributes to this Martin's excellent sustain and resonance.

• Strap Buttons: Like most Martins, the 11D10E-01 comes equipped with standard strap buttons on the heel and tail blocks. They hold a strap securely while playing. The small black buttons blend nicely into the guitar's aesthetic.

Pros

This Acoustic-Electric Guitar has a number of exceptional features that make it a superb choice for guitarists looking for a high-quality instrument.

• Resonance and Sustain: The solid Sitka spruce top produces clear, balanced tone with excellent resonance and sustain. This allows notes to ring out fully.

• Natural Acoustic Sound: When unplugged, the guitar has a warm, rich, and nuanced acoustic tone. The solid wood construction provides excellent resonance without electronic enhancement.

• Fishman Electronics: The Fishman electronics have a natural sound with flexible EQ controls. You can shape your amplified tone while retaining the guitar's inherent acoustic characteristics.

• Even Neck Profile: The Performing Artist taper neck has an easy-playing, slim profile. It makes playing for extended periods comfortable. The smooth satin finish also increases speed.

• Quality Materials: Mahogany back and sides, solid spruce top, ebony fretboard, bone nut and saddle - all professional grade tonewoods. Indicates careful hand-craftsmanship.

• stage-ready volume: The body shape and bracing provide excellent projection. You can play live or with a band without struggling to be heard over other instruments.

• Beautiful Cosmetics: Multiple binding lines on the body and fretboard are elegantly decorative. The shaded edgeburst adds striking visual appeal.

Cons

The Martin 11D10E-01 does have a few potential drawbacks to consider.

• The neck width may feel too wide for some players used to narrower acoustic necks. It measures 1 7/8 inches at the nut, which is on the wider side. Those with smaller hands may find it uncomfortable.

• It's a relatively heavy instrument at 5 lbs 15 oz. Heavier than many acoustic-electrics. This can lead to fatigue and discomfort over long playing sessions, especially when standing up. Consider getting a supportive strap.

• The electronics don't have any onboard tone shaping. The preamp provides volume and tone controls, but no EQ. So you can't sculpt the amplified tone beyond basic treble and bass adjustments.

• It's a pricey instrument with an MSRP of $3,399. There are more affordable acoustic-electric options available. But you do get exceptional hand craftsmanship and tonewoods for the premium price.

• The plastic nut and saddle are potential weak points on an otherwise all-solid-wood guitar. Bone or Tusq may have been nicer for the price.

• The lack of cutaway access to upper frets may hinder playability for some players. Those who utilize higher soloing ranges frequently may want to consider a cutaway model instead.

Alternatives

There are a few other acoustic-electric guitars that are comparable alternatives worth considering alongside the Martin 11D10E-01.

Taylor 414ce - This is another high-end acoustic-electric with a solid Sitka spruce top and layered rosewood back and sides. It has a similar grand auditorium body shape as the Martin, and produces a balanced tone with good bass, mids, and crisp trebles. The Taylor has their Taylor ES2 pickup system, which utilizes behind-the-saddle transducers and an onboard preamp. It's a very playable guitar with clear and articulate amplified tones.

Gibson J-45 Standard Acoustic-Electric - The J-45 has the iconic sloped-shoulder Jumbo Gibson body shape. It comes with a Sitka Spruce top and mahogany back and sides. This is a great choice if you want the warmer, richer sound of mahogany compared to rosewood. It has a Fishman pickup/preamp system and delivers that full, ringing Gibson tone when plugged in. The neck is slightly more rounded than the Martin.

Guild D-55 Acoustic Electric - This mahogany and spruce guitar has impressive projection and volume. The D-55 utilizes a dual pickup system with an undersaddle transducer and soundhole mounted element, with three-band EQ and built-in tuner. The tone is very balanced and nuanced. The neck is slimmer and more fast-playing than the Martin.

Seagull Maritime SWS SG - For a more affordable option, the Seagull SWS packs impressive features into its price point. It has a cedar top with wild cherry back/sides, providing excellent warmth and openness. The dual-source pickup system gives very natural amplified tones. The wider nut width enhances playability. Overall, this guitar delivers remarkable value at half the cost of the Martin.

Summary

The Martin D-10E is an excellent acoustic-electric guitar that delivers impressive sound, playability, and build quality. Its solid wood construction produces rich, balanced tone and sustained resonance. The comfortable neck and playability make it easy to handle at any skill level. The Fishman electronics allow plugging in for amplified performances with clear, natural tone.

Overall, the Martin D-10E is a high-quality acoustic-electric that will satisfy players looking for classic Martin sound and craftsmanship in an electric package. The all-solid tonewoods and thoughtful appointments provide versatility for any guitarist. While not the cheapest option, the lifetime warranty and "made in the USA" quality ensure this is an investment that can be enjoyed for years to come.

For those seeking top-notch acoustic-electric performance without breaking the bank, the Martin D-10E delivers. It has the looks, sound and feel of a pro-level guitar at an accessible price point. This would make an excellent choice for any player looking to upgrade to a lifetime acoustic-electric.