Martin Guitar SC-13E

Revolutionary Playability for Modern Performers

The Martin SC-13E is a groundbreaking acoustic-electric guitar from the Road Series, designed to bridge the gap between traditional acoustics and electric playability. Handcrafted in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, it features the patented Sure Align® neck system for full fret access and an asymmetrical body for balanced output. Ideal for gigging musicians and fingerstyle players across Australia, the SC-13E combines a solid Sitka spruce top with koa veneer back and sides for superior acoustic quality and stage-ready amplification. Available in Natural finish, it’s praised for its comfort, projection, and innovation, making it a game-changer for performers.

High-Quality Performance

The SC-13E redefines acoustic-electric design with electric-like freedom:

• Body: Asymmetrical Auditorium-style with a solid Sitka spruce top for bright, dynamic highs and clear projection, paired with koa veneer back and sides for rich warmth and midrange focus. The offset waist and deep cutaway enhance comfort and upper-fret access, while the shallower body depth reduces fatigue for long sets.
• Tone: Balanced and versatile with impressive volume unplugged and natural amplified response, suitable for strumming, fingerpicking, or lead lines. The spruce top delivers a broad dynamic range, while the koa adds exotic resonance and sparkle.
• Neck: Select hardwood with a Low Profile Velocity shape and high-performance taper for ultra-comfortable, electric-inspired play. The Richlite fingerboard has a 25.4″ scale, 20 frets, and mother-of-pearl dot inlays for smooth fretting.
• Bridge: Modern belly style with drop-in synthetic bone saddle for easy setup and intonation.
• Electronics: Fishman MX-T preamp with under-saddle piezo pickup, featuring volume, tone, and phase controls plus a built-in chromatic tuner for feedback-resistant, natural sound.
• Tuners: Chrome enclosed for stable tuning.
• Strings: Custom light Martin Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 (0.011–0.052) for balanced response and playability.

A 2023 Guitarist 101 review calls it “impossible to resist,” praising the “balanced tone for strumming, single notes, and fingerpicking” and electric-like feel. Premier Guitar (2023) notes its “excellent setup” and “playability that rivals electrics,” with the asymmetrical body discouraging feedback. Guitar World (2020) hails it as a “bold statement” from Martin, with “slinkiest action” and “balanced output.” Users on Sweetwater (4.5/5) highlight the “warm, rich bass” and “responsive tone,” though some prefer heavier strings for fuller projection.

Durable and Stylish Design

• Finish: Gloss on top for a polished look, satin on back/sides for natural feel.
• Aesthetics: Features a multi-stripe rosette, ebony bridge, and simple dot inlays for understated elegance.
• Build Quality: Solid spruce top with veneer koa back/sides, dovetail neck joint for vibration transfer, and a premium softshell case for protection. Weighing approximately 4.5–5 lbs, it’s lightweight and road-ready.

Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, the SC-13E is built for the road. Prices range from $749–$850 USD (AUD 1,125–1,275) as of September 2025, available at AudioShop Australia with fast delivery.

Key Performance Features

• Body: Asymmetrical Auditorium Cutaway, solid Sitka spruce top, koa veneer back/sides
• Neck: Select hardwood, Low Profile Velocity
• Fingerboard: Richlite, 25.4″ scale, 20 frets, mother-of-pearl dots
• Electronics: Fishman MX-T (volume, tone, phase, tuner)
• Bridge: Modern belly with drop-in synthetic bone saddle
• Tuners: Chrome enclosed
• Bracing: X-brace scalloped on treble side
• Nut/Saddle: Synthetic bone
• Warranty: Limited lifetime

Notes

• Setup Tip: Adjust truss rod and saddle for lower action; professional setup recommended for optimal intonation. Use medium-gauge strings (e.g., 12–53) for fuller tone. Pair with Rode PodMic and RØDECaster Pro II for recording demos.
• Care Instructions: Store in the included softshell case to protect the finish; maintain humidity (45–55% RH).
• Compatibility: Fishman MX-T pairs well with acoustic amps or PA systems; use with RØDECaster for direct recording.
• Warranty: Register at martinguitar.com for support; verify purchase from authorized retailers like AudioShop Australia.
• Community Feedback: Guitarist 101 (2023) calls it “effortless to play” with “balanced tone,” while Premier Guitar (2023) praises the “excellent setup” and “electric-like feel.” Reddit’s r/AcousticGuitar (2023) notes it’s “80% of a D-18 for half the price.”

Why Choose AudioShop Australia

• 100% genuine Martin products with manufacturer warranty
• Fast, reliable delivery across AudioShop Australia with secure checkout
• Free shipping on orders over $100 (under 20kg) at AudioShop Australia
• Expert advice from our team of music professionals
• Trusted by guitarists and performers at AudioShop Australia