If you’re wondering whether Martin GPC-16E is a good acoustic-electric guitar or not, don’t worry – you’ve come to the right place! In today’s in-depth review, I’m going to take a very close look on that popular acoustic model. It’s very popular among the professional musicians, but is it actually good?
Honestly, Martin GPC-16E is a fantastic acoustic-electric guitar. It has everything you need – the looks, the feel and the amazing tone. Although it’s not a cheap guitar, it’s not overpriced at all.
Let’s dive deeper with research to find out what exactly makes the GPC-16E model so good and so popular among the guitarists all around the world. Firstly, we’ll start with a quick overview of the specifications of that model. Additionally, we’ll investigate the major pros and cons of that guitar. Of course, there will be a few sound demos included too!
Specs & Pricing (Rosewood)
Martin GPC-16E is a Grand Auditorium acoustic-electric guitar designed for the most demanding guitarists out there. This model is very popular among working musicians and to be honest, it’s not surprising at all.
What makes it so cool? Well, the GPC-16E features a solid Sitka spruce top with back and sides made of East Indian Rosewood. On top of that, there’s also a very comfortable select hardwood neck with low oval profile and an easy-playing ebony fretboard.
What’s important, it also has the Sitka forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing. This is very important, because it significantly improves the overall projection, focus, resonance and bass response.
The manufacturer equipped this model with Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2 electronics which offers a really good quality as well. This feature allows you to efficiently use that guitar on stage. It also makes your guitar sound very natural, so that’s an another really big advantage for performing artists.
It is also worth mentioning that the GPC-16E looks beautiful from the outside too. It’s made with a thorough precision and attention to detail, so it certainly looks and feels like a premium instrument.
When it comes to pricing, just like any other high-end Martin guitar – it’s not that cheap. However, in comparison with other high quality models by this brand, the pricing is actually not that bad. Undoubtedly, although it’s an expensive guitar, it’s definitely worth every cent.
Here’s the sound demo – feel free to check it out below.
Who Is It For?
Martin GPC-16E is a high quality acoustic guitar suitable for both amateur and professional guitar players. No matter how experienced you are, you will definitely notice the uniqueness of that instrument.
However, since it’s a pretty expensive acoustic-electric model, most of the time it’s used by intermediate musicians.
If you’re searching for a great sounding and reliable guitar suitable for live performances, the GPC-16E will be a great fit for you. It is a particularly good choice for all working musicians out there.
It is also worth mentioning that the Grand Auditorium body shape of that guitar makes it extremely versatile. It’s ideal for enthusiasts of fingerstyle playing, but at the same time it’s also great for lovers of strumming. Whether you’re into blues, rock, country or jazz – this model won’t disappoint you.
Overall, I’m positive that the vast majority of guitar players will be really impressed by the quality of Martin GPC-16E. Although it’s expensive, it’s pretty much flawless. And that’s why I love it!
Rosewood vs Mahogany
For those who aren’t aware, Martin offers an another version of the GPC-16E guitar which features mahogany back and sides instead of East Indian Rosewood. Is it better? Well, that’s debatable.
The truth is that both of these models offer a fantastic quality. They sound a bit differently, but your choice should be based on your own personal preferences.
In my opinion, the rosewood model has a bit more soothing tone. At the same time, the mahogany model is a bit cleaner and crisper. But the sound difference between them is not that easy to notice.
No matter which one you decide to choose for yourself, I’m sure that you’ll be really satisfied with your choice.
Here’s a really good video that highlights both of the mahogany and rosewood models – feel free to check it out below.
Pros & Cons
Just like any other acoustic-electric guitar available on the market, Martin GPC-16E has its own advantages and disadvantages. However, you don’t have to worry too much about the cons of that model – it seems pretty clear that they don’t really exist, and even if they do – they’re really subjective.
Pros
- Sounds Fantastic
- Looks Beautiful
- Highly Versatile
- Comfortable Neck
- Perfect For Gigs
- Softshell Case Included
Cons
- High Price
As you can see, there are a lot of things that can be considered as major advantages of the GPC-16E. This guitar looks, sounds and feels like a premium instrument. On top of that, it’s perfect for live performances and it comes with an included case. How can you argue with that?
On the other hand, it seems that thigh price of GPC-16E is the biggest obstacle that may stop you from getting it for yourself. Surely, not everyone will be able to afford it straight away without saving up.
But despite of the high price, this is still an absolutely great guitar. In my opinion, this is one of the best Grand Auditiorium acoustic-electric guitars that you can potentially find on the market right now.
Alternative Options
If you’re not satisfied with the quality of Martin GPC-16E or you simply can’t afford it right now, that’s not a problem! There’s still quite a lot of other fantastic acoustic guitars that also deserve a lot of attention.
Of course, choosing a high-end acoustic guitar will depend on your own personal preferences and most importantly, on the size of your budget. Still, here’s a few more guitars that you may also like.
Alternative Option #1 – Takamine P5DC
Firstly, I highly encourage you to check out the Takamine P5DC. This is one of my favorite acoustic-electric guitars of all time! It offers an excellent value for the money and in fact, it’s a little bit more affordable than Martin GPC-16E.
In my opinion, this is one of the best high-end guitars of this type that you can potentially find on the market. Although it doesn’t have the Grand Auditorium body shape, it still works as a fantastic alternative option for those who aren’t satisfied with the GPC-16E.
Alternative Option #2 – Martin DX Johnny Cash Signature Edition
Alternatively, you can also consider getting the Martin DX Johnny Cash Signature Model. This is a fantastic acoustic-electric guitar which is really underrated in my opinion. In fact, it’s actually quite cheap when you compare it with other guitars made by this brand.
This guitar will be perfect for fans of Johnny Cash, but the truth is that you don’t need to be an enthusiast of his music to notice the high quality of that guitar. It exceeds all the expectations and it sounds great on all occasions – both on stage and unplugged.
Overall, I have no hesitation in recommending this model to all working musicians who are looking for an inexpensive and reliable guitar suitable for live performances. There’s a really high chance that you’ll immediately fall in love with that model!
Alternative Option #3 – Martin HD-35
Martin HD-35 is a high-end guitar designed for the most demanding guitar players out there. This is the top of the league, so you have to be aware that this is not a cheap guitar. However, despite of the high price, it’s definitely worth the money.
In my opinion, the HD-35 is a true piece of art. This is the Holy Grail of acoustic guitars – it has everything you need and it sounds magnificent. It’s most likely one of the best acoustic guitars that you’ll ever hold in your hands.
If your budget is unlimited and you’re okay with spending a fair amount of money on a new high-end acoustic guitar, you should definitely consider getting the HD-35. This is one of the guitars that you’ll pass to your grandchildren in 50 years time. Absolutely amazing!
FAQ
Where is Martin GPC-16E made?
Martin GPC-16E is manufactured in the United States.
What is the scale length of the GPC-16E?
The scale length of that guitar has 25.4″.
What is the nut width of the GPC-16E?
The nut width of that guitar has 16″.
Where can I find out more about Martin guitars?
If you want to learn more about this legendary manufacturer of acoustic guitars, make sure to visit the official website of Martin.
Summary
As you can see, Martin GPC-16E is one of the coolest acoustic-electric guitars that you can add to your own collection of guitars. Although it’s not a cheap instrument, it’s definitely worth it. I have no hesitation in recommending this model to all working musicians who are looking for a high quality axe suitable for live performances.
What do you think of that model? Would you get it for yourself or do you think that it’s a bit overrated? Leave a comment down below and let me know what you think, I’m really interested to hear your thoughts!
Thanks for checking out today’s review, hopefully it was helpful and you found what you were looking for. If you enjoyed this article and you’re searching for more gear recommendations, you may also like:
