The Martin LX1E is an excellent entry-level acoustic-electric guitar that combines traditional Martin craftsmanship with modern electronics and playability. This American-made guitar punches above its weight class, offering clear, balanced tone and easy playability perfect for beginners and working musicians alike.

With its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, the LX1E produces the signature Martin sound - bright and articulate highs with focused mids and lows. The non-cutaway body style provides excellent resonance while still being comfortable to hold and play. The onboard Fishman Sonitone electronics accurately reproduce the LX1E's organic acoustic tones through an amplifier or PA system.

Overall, the Martin LX1E is a versatile, great-sounding acoustic-electric that makes an ideal first guitar or a reliable stage and studio workhorse. Its combination of traditional design, quality materials, and Fishman electronics create an instrument that lives up to Martin's reputation for excellence.

Construction

The Martin LX1E features solid Sitka spruce for the top paired with mahogany laminate back and sides. This combination produces a light and lively sound. The top is finished with a durable satin finish that allows the wood to vibrate freely. The neck is made from Stratabond, a very strong laminate material that provides stability. The fingerboard and bridge are made from Richlite, an ecologically friendly material that simulates rosewood. The nut and saddle are made from Tusq, a synthetic bone material preferred for its sustain and bright tone. Overall the materials are thoughtfully selected for optimal sound, sustainability, and durability making this an ideal choice for players at all levels.

The Martin LX1E is an excellent entry-level acoustic-electric guitar for those looking for the acclaimed Martin tone and playability. However, for those interested specifically in a nylon-string classical acoustic-electric, the Washburn Classical C5CE-A is an option worth considering. The C5CE-A features a solid cedar top with mahogany back and sides, delivering a balanced and articulate voice. The mahogany neck provides a comfortable playing feel. The onboard preamp and tuner make it easy to plug in for live performance or recording. While the Martin LX1E utilizes steel strings, the nylon strings of the C5CE-A offer a warmer, mellower tone perfect for classical guitar styles. The wider neck and nylon strings also facilitate techniques like tremolo and fingerpicking. Whether you're a classical purist or simply seek an affordable nylon-string acoustic-electric, the Washburn C5CE-A warrants a close look.

The Martin LX1E's solid Sitka spruce top produces the bright, airy tone that has made Martin famous, while the mahogany laminate back and sides offer a balanced sound. Together they create the versatile foundational tone that has defined the Martin legacy for generations. The Stratabond neck provides excellent stability and a comfortable feel. The Richlite fingerboard and bridge offer an eco-friendly alternative to rosewood with comparable aesthetics and tone. The durable satin finish allows the top to vibrate freely. And the Tusq nut and saddle optimize sustain and resonance. Altogether, the LX1E is thoughtfully constructed for optimal playability, sound, and reliability. As an affordable way to experience the coveted Martin sound and craftsmanship, the LX1E is a benchmark acoustic-electric model suitable for all player levels and styles, from aspiring beginners to seasoned professionals.

Sound Quality

The Martin LX1E delivers excellent sound quality that belies its affordable price tag. The solid Sitka spruce top provides a bright and lively tone, with good projection and sustain. Spruce is a desirable tonewood that responds well to strumming and picking. Though laminate, the mahogany back and sides offer a balanced and well-rounded sound.

The light single-ring bracing allows the top to vibrate freely, contributing to the guitar's impressive volume and sustain. Overall, the LX1E produces warm, detailed tones ideal for a variety of playing styles, from delicate fingerpicking to enthusiastic strumming. The sound is resonant across the tonal spectrum, with articulate highs, balanced mids, and lows that are full without being boomy. For a guitar in this price range, the LX1E punches well above its weight in terms of sound quality and musicality.

The LX1E's sound quality makes it a great choice for beginners and intermediate players looking for an affordable guitar that still delivers impressive tone. Many budget acoustics sound dull and one-dimensional, but not the LX1E. Its all-solid-wood construction gives it a maturity beyond its price tag. The LX1E is versatile enough to handle country, folk, rock, blues, and more. Its balanced tone works for both rhythm playing and melodic single-note lines.

If you're looking for an alternative, check out the Fender FA-235E. This dreadnought acoustic-electric offers comparable build quality and sound at a similar price point as the LX1E. It has a solid spruce top and laminate mahogany back and sides. The FA-235E produces a balanced, warm tone with good projection. The slim neck makes it comfortable for long practice sessions or gigs. It comes equipped with a built-in preamp and tuner for amplified performance situations. Overall, the FA-235E is another great affordable option for players seeking quality construction and impressive acoustic sound.

Playability

The LX1E features Martin's Modified Low Oval neck shape, which provides a comfortable and familiar feel. The nut width measures 1-3/4", which is standard for a steel-string acoustic. The action on the LX1E is set medium-low from the factory, making it very playable right out of the box. Most reviewers found the action to be comfortable for both strumming chords and fingerpicking melodies up the neck. The low action reduces hand fatigue during longer practice or jam sessions.

The neck has a satin finish, which allows smooth movement up and down the fingerboard. The fret ends are smoothly finished as well. The fretboard radius measures 16", which provides a good balance of playability between chording and soloing. Overall, the LX1E offers a comfortable and accessible playing experience for most guitarists. The neck shape and string action facilitate versatile playing styles from rhythmic strumming to intricate fingerpicking.

Electronics

The Martin LX1E features Fishman Sonitone electronics. This system includes a custom-voiced undersaddle pickup and preamp designed specifically for Martin by Fishman.

The controls on the LX1E are simple and intuitive. There is a volume control and tone control, allowing you to easily shape and blend the pickup signal. The volume knob also acts as the on/off switch for the pickup system. No batteries are required, as the electronics are powered by the guitar cable when it is plugged in.

The undersaddle pickup combined with the preamp produces a very natural amplified tone, without excessive feedback or ambient noise. The pickup blends seamlessly with the true acoustic sound of the guitar. The LX1E is stage-ready, and provides enough volume and tone shaping to hold its own in any performance setting.

Overall, the electronics setup on the Martin LX1E is purpose-built for this model. The Fishman Sonitone system captures the LX1E's organic acoustic sound, with simple controls and seamless amplified performance. This makes the LX1E an extremely versatile acoustic-electric guitar.

Tone

The Martin LX1E has a surprisingly versatile tone that works well for a variety of musical genres. The solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides provide excellent resonance and balanced warmth across the tonal spectrum.

Fingerstyle players will appreciate the LX1E's rich low end, which helps each note ring out clearly, yet it still has enough brightness on the treble strings to cut through a mix when strumming. The mahogany provides some midrange punch, allowing rhythmic, percussive playing styles to be well-articulated.

The LX1E has enough dynamic range to handle both gentle, delicate fingerpicking and aggressive strumming. It stays clear and focused when played hard, without muddying up the sound. The tone remains balanced from the lowest bass strings to the highest melody notes.

From country and folk to indie rock and pop, the LX1E can readily adapt to supporting different musical genres. The versatility expands the possibilities for creative players looking to explore new styles. The LX1E may exceed expectations for what an affordable Martin acoustic-electric can offer.

Pros

Quality Materials and Construction

The Martin LX1E features solid wood construction with a solid Sitka spruce top and sapele back and sides. The use of solid tonewoods helps produce a full, rich sound. The Materials are high-quality and durable.

Great Playability

This guitar has a comfortable neck profile that is easy to play. The action is set low from the factory, making it very playable right out of the box. It's a great choice for new players.

Impressive Electronics

The Fishman Sonitone electronics sound very natural and make this an extremely versatile acoustic-electric. It can handle both amplified and unplugged playing very well. The undersaddle pickup combined with the soundhole-mounted preamp provide excellent amplification and flexibility.

Cons

The Martin LX1E acoustic-electric guitar does have a few drawbacks to consider.

Higher Price Point

While Martin guitars are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and tonewoods, the LX1E sits at a higher price point between $600-700. This puts it out of reach for beginner guitarists on a budget. There are more affordable options available.

Electronics Could Be Better

The Fishman Sonitone electronics included on the LX1E get mixed reviews. Some players feel the EQ controls are limited, and the pickup doesn't capture the true acoustic sound as well as other systems. The electronics are usable but leave room for improvement.

Lack of Cutaway

Unlike other Martin acoustic-electric models, the LX1E does not have a cutaway body design. This can make it harder to access the upper frets, which may frustrate more advanced players. Those looking for cutaway access on a Martin will need to upgrade to a different model.

Alternatives

The Martin LX1E sits in the lower price range for solid wood acoustic-electric guitars. There are a few comparable models to consider in the same price range:

• Yamaha FG-TA: This is another entry-level acoustic-electric from a well-known brand. The FG-TA has a solid Sitka spruce top with mahogany back and sides. It comes equipped with a System66 preamp and pickup. The tone is balanced and versatile. The playability is a bit stiffer than the Martin.

• Fender Acoustasonic 15: The Acoustasonic 15 is Fender's entry into the acoustic-electric market. It has a laminate spruce top with mahogany back and sides. The Fishman Isys III pickup produces a balanced amplified tone. The neck feels smooth and playable.

• Epiphone Hummingbird Performer: This Hummingbird model from Epiphone's Inspired by Gibson line offers solid spruce and mahogany construction. It comes equipped with a Shadow ePerformer preamp system. The tone is warm and suited for a range of styles. It offers good bang for the buck.

• Taylor Big Baby: The Big Baby Taylor is an inexpensive, travel-sized acoustic-electric. It has a solid Sitka spruce top with layered sapele back and sides. The Expression System 2 pickup preserves Taylor's signature bright, balanced tone. A great portable option.

Summary

The Martin LX1E is an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate level players looking for a high quality acoustic-electric guitar with great tone and playability. Though not as fancy looking as some other guitars, it excels where it really counts - in the sound.

The LX1E produces rich, balanced tone across the tonal spectrum that projects well both acoustically and amplified. Though not the loudest guitar, it has enough volume for small gigs and jam sessions. The comfortable neck and lowered action facilitate smooth playability up and down the fretboard.

While the stripped down aesthetics may not appeal to all, the LX1E makes up for it with the authentic Martin tone and build that punches above its price point. The onboard electronics provide flexibility and convenience for plugging into an amp or PA system.

Overall, the Martin LX1E is an ideal choice for newer players seeking the coveted Martin sound and experience in an affordable package. The quality construction, electronics, and well-balanced tone make it a guitar that could carry an aspiring musician from their first chords to the stage. Its simplicity may turn off some more advanced players seeking flashy aesthetics, but it hits all the right notes where it really matters.