The allure of a guitar with a story etched into its finish is undeniable. While the concept of artificially aging instruments is relatively new in guitar craftsmanship, violin makers have embraced this art for centuries. For those drawn to the charm of a well-worn instrument without decades of play, the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster presents a compelling option. Its distinctive, lived-in aesthetic and captivating sound make it a guitar that’s easy to fall in love with.
Built for the Working Musician (and Everyone Else)
Martin designed the StreetMaster series, which includes a dreadnought version alongside this 000 model, with the working musician in mind. However, the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster’s appeal extends far beyond gigging musicians. This all-solid-wood guitar boasts a collection of features that any discerning guitar player can appreciate, wrapped in a unique, distressed package.
Part of Martin’s esteemed 15 series, the StreetMaster features an all-mahogany body and neck, both finished in a satin sheen. It incorporates A-frame X-bracing for robust construction and Martin’s simplified dovetail neck joint, omitting body binding for a streamlined look. The StreetMaster shares significant DNA with the popular Martin 000-15M, but distinguishes itself with a katalox fingerboard and bridge, and a no-pickguard design that complements its ready-for-anything finish.
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Alt text: Back view of the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster guitar showcasing its distressed satin mahogany finish and body shape.
Perhaps it’s the StreetMaster’s pre-worn appearance, but there’s a liberating feeling in playing it. During the review period, despite having other guitars readily available, the 000-15M StreetMaster became the go-to instrument for various playing scenarios. Whether practicing new songs, working through musical pieces, or simply strumming chords while relaxing, it was always within reach. The modified low-oval neck profile combined with Martin’s standard taper offered exceptional comfort, while the triple-0 body size nestled comfortably whether fingerpicking or flatpicking.
Tone and Sound Profile
True to its all-mahogany construction, the StreetMaster delivers impressive clarity and a focused fundamental tone. The midrange is prominent, characterized by a dry, throaty quality in the lower frequencies. The highs are pleasantly sweet without being overly bright, and the bass response is balanced, avoiding boominess. This tonal blend creates a guitar that ideally complements vocalists and appeals to those who appreciate a full, even sound that doesn’t overpower in any single frequency range.
The effortless playability and rich, resonant tones of the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster are truly captivating. It’s a guitar that beckons you to pick it up and play, while its subtly aged finish eliminates any hesitation about taking it anywhere. Simply put, the StreetMaster is an inspiring instrument that you’ll find hard to put down.
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Alt text: Close-up of the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster soundhole highlighting the mahogany grain and simple rosette design.
Martin 000-15M StreetMaster Specifications
Body: 000-14 Fret; All Mahogany; Non-Scalloped A-Frame “X-1” Bracing; Katalox Belly Bridge; Compensated White Tusq Saddle; Satin Distressed Mahogany Burst Finish
Neck: 25.4″ Scale; Mahogany; Modified Low Oval Profile with Standard Taper; Dovetail Neck Joint; Katalox Fingerboard; 20 Frets; Abalone Diamonds and Squares Short Pattern Inlays; 1 11/16″ Bone Nut; Golden Age Relic Nickel Tuners with Cream Knobs; Satin Finish
Other: Martin SP Acoustic 92/8 Phosphor Bronze Light (.012–.054) Strings; Soft Gig Bag; Left-Handed Options Available
Price: $1,799 (MSRP); $1,399 (Street)
Origin: USA
Explore the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster on Amazon.
This article is based on content originally published in the May 2018 issue of Acoustic Guitar magazine.
