Although Martin continues to offer many guitars steeped in the company’s 180-year tradition, models such as the Performing Artist series guitars are proof that the company continues to evolve. Introduced in 2014, the GPCPA4 combines modern features with a relatively affordable price. Using the company’s new cutaway Grand Performance body size (slightly larger than a 000), the GPCPA4 is built with a solid Sitka spruce top and solid sapele back and sides. As with all Performing Artist models, the guitar’s neck has a special shape with slightly less taper, facilitating lead playing in the higher registers. The instrument includes Fishman F1 Analog electronics, which consist of an undersddle pickup and a side-mounted preamp with volume and tone controls as well as a built-in chromatic tuner. With a strong acoustic sound and a hassle-free pickup system, the GPCPA4 is at home in many playing styles.

SPECS: Grand Performance body with 14-fret neck. Solid Sitka spruce top. Solid sapele back and sides. Mahogany neck with simple dovetail joint. Richlite fingerboard and bridge. 25.4-inch scale. 1¾-inch nut width. Tusq nut and saddle. Enclosed chrome tuning machines. Polished gloss top finish; satin back and sides finish. Fishman F1 Analog electronics. Made in USA. $1,649 list with hardshell case. martinguitar.com.

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