Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Sitka Spruce VTS-Flamed Tasmanian Blackwood Grand Performance Acoustic-Electric Guitar Burst

The Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Sitka Spruce VTS-Flamed Tasmanian Blackwood Grand Performance Acoustic-Electric Guitar stands out with its combination of vintage-inspired materials and modern acoustic engineering. The Sitka spruce top receives Martin's Vintage Tone System (VTS) treatment for enhanced resonance and aged warmth, while the flamed Tasmanian blackwood body offers a striking visual and tonal character. A forward-shifted X-brace pattern increases soundboard movement, helping every note cut through a mix. The modified low oval neck profile, paired with an ebony fingerboard, makes extended sessions comfortable. With L.R. Baggs Anthem electronics, this acoustic-electric guitar transitions seamlessly from practice to stage, making it a strong choice for players who need clarity and projection for solo or ensemble work.

VTS-Treated Sitka Spruce Top Increases Resonance

The Sitka spruce top receives a Vintage Tone System treatment, which speeds up the natural aging process. This method changes the wood's cellular structure, producing warmer, more open tones. The forward-shifted X-brace lets the top vibrate freely, giving the guitar more volume and improved sustain. Players hear enhanced definition in both fingerstyle passages and flatpicked runs, allowing for nuanced dynamic control in live or studio environments.

Flamed Tasmanian Blackwood and Ebony Deliver Rich Sound

Flamed Tasmanian blackwood adds depth in the low and mid frequencies, while the gloss finish protects the wood and highlights its dramatic grain. Ebony on the fingerboard and bridge offers a smooth, fast feel for technical lines and precise chord changes. These material choices work together to create a clear, balanced sound with strong note separation, supporting expressive playing in both ensemble and solo settings.

L.R. Baggs Anthem Electronics Support Stage and Studio Use

The onboard L.R. Baggs Anthem system combines a microphone and undersaddle pickup for natural amplification. Discrete controls let players adjust levels quickly during setup, and the unit delivers consistent tone with minimal feedback. This makes the acoustic-electric guitar ready for live sets, direct recording, or rehearsals where clear signal and easy adjustments are needed.

Durable Build and Reliable Hardware Extend Guitar Life

Martin uses a dovetail neck joint for stability and long-term alignment. The gloss finish on the body, satin neck, and Grover nickel tuners all resist wear from regular use. Bone nut and saddle maintain intonation, while ebony bridge pins and ivoroid dots handle repeated string changes. The included hardshell case protects the instrument against bumps and humidity swings during travel.

Player Experience With the Martin Custom Shop 18 Style Grand Performance

This grand performance acoustic-electric guitar fits musicians seeking rich acoustic tone and onstage reliability. The combination of VTS spruce, blackwood, and precise electronics means every note projects with clarity, making it easier to stand out in group settings or solo performances. The ergonomic neck profile and balanced body help players focus on technique, resulting in more expressive, confident music-making at every session.