I bought mine 5 years ago and installed an active EMG bridge transducer. I added a feedback buster because the jumbo body does tend to cause feedback in certain instances. I run it through an AD-5 processor for EQ and the notch filter. I subsequently changed out the EMG for a Fishman Rare Earth soundhole pick up. That made all of the difference in the world. The Rare Earth brings out the absolute best sound without the typical overtones associated with a bridge pick-up. I use Elixir soft long strings on it, which helps reduce fret and string noise. Unplugged it sounds great for low volume jamming and practice, but it does need to be amped for stage performance. The neck has a wonderful and fast feel. The body is comfortable to hold, I put the top strap button on the lower side of the heel and I use a wide leather strap. The design and construction are excellent. I've played it regularly for five years and have had no problems what-so-ever.

I am a long time Maritn guitar fan. I have owned several Maritns acoustics: DM12-12, D-28, D-35, OM-21, and I sought out an acoustic Bass for the mellower sound. I have played Tacoma, Olympia, Ibanez, Rogue, Fender, and Martin. I am still looking. I was disappointed that the Martin was not superior to the other basses. It was nearly the same in material quality laminated wood (please make a solid rosewood sided and back Bass)and over $1000 in price. I will pay more , but not for the name. Still I am a Martin fan and will wait for a better quality bass under $1000, solid wood and an exclusive edition for Musicians friend like the D-15special edition spruce-rosewood(great deal, great guitar, great idea,great hint!!). Until then i will play my Gibson EB-2.

I love this bass! Although the double bass is much more popular for that acoustic bass sound, I love being able to sit in the living room and play without that huge instrument! And I'm used to playing guitar as well so it's a welcome feel. The sound is really full as well but to really get the sound to fill a room, you need a pickup. The Fishman Rare Earth are the best! All and all, this is an excellent bass.

Everything you'd expect from a Martin in a bass. A pleasure to play - neck is comfortable and playing ease rivals most electrics.

I have played this bass for over 5 years and have found it to be a wonderfull find. I have not found any bass that I like the tone of as well. I have added a matrix preamp and it plays wonderfull with my bass amp.