The Martin Guitar Company, renowned for its iconic acoustic instruments, ventured into the world of electric guitars with its E-series. This series was broadly divided into the 18 series (E-18, EM-18, and EB-18 bass) and the 28 series (E-28 and EB-28 bass). All guitars bearing the Martin label in this series were proudly made in the United States, representing a significant chapter in Martin’s history.
The story behind the E series guitars is rich and compelling, made even more fascinating by the invaluable contributions of the key individuals involved in their design and production. Their insights have been crucial in piecing together a complete and accurate narrative, especially as previously available information in books and articles contained inaccuracies. Significant gratitude is owed to Dick Boak, John Marshall, Pete Entstasser, and C.F. Martin & Co. for their immense assistance in researching and documenting this history. Without their contributions, understanding the origins of these instruments would be significantly less complete.
Let’s delve into the 18 series, Martin’s initial foray into solid-body electric guitars, examining the instruments themselves and the details surrounding their production.
The 18 series marked Martin’s first venture into solid-body electric guitars, a design spearheaded by Dick Boak. In a departure from their traditional numbering system, Martin implemented a new 4-digit serial number sequence specifically for the 18 and 28 series, starting from 1000. The very first instrument to roll off the production line was an EM-18, bearing serial number 1004, shipped in December 1978. The last instrument in this series was an EB-18 bass, serial number 3645, produced sometime in 1980. Production figures reveal a total of 341 E-18 guitars, 1,375 EM-18 guitars, and 874 EB-18 bass guitars, culminating in a total of 2,590 instruments within the 18 series. Discrepancies between the serial number range (1004 to 3645 suggesting 2,642 instruments) and the production count indicate potential numbering skips, quality control rejections, or a combination of both factors during manufacturing.
A common misconception, perpetuated by unclear information in various publications, is that the 18 and 28 series were produced concurrently. This is not accurate. Production of the 18 series concluded before the 28 series commenced. However, due to existing inventory, 18 series instruments continued to be sold by distributors into the early 1980s.
The Martin 18 series comprised three distinct models: two six-string guitars (the E-18 and EM-18) and the EB-18 bass guitar. The E-18 and EM-18 models were essentially identical in construction, differing only in minor electronic specifications. The EB-18 held the distinction of being Martin’s first production electric bass, and also their first solid-body electric bass. Contrary to what might appear at first glance, these instruments feature set necks, not neck-through construction, a detail often overlooked.
Image alt text: Dick Boak, designer of the Martin E-18 electric guitar, holding the instrument.
Debunking Myths and Legends surrounding the Martin E-18 Series
Several myths and legends have circulated regarding the Martin 18 series electric guitars, and it’s important to clarify these points:
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Myth: Higher Specification EMB-18 Basses: The rumor of two higher specification 18 series basses, designated EMB-18, remains largely unsubstantiated. While mentioned in passing once, concrete evidence or further references are lacking. Further information or confirmation regarding the EMB-18 is welcome.
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Myth: Production Years 1979-83: The widely held belief that the 18 series was produced from 1979 to 1983 is incorrect. Production actually spanned from December 1978 to late 1980 or early 1981.
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Myth: Modified Gun Case as Hard Case: Interestingly, the rumor that the hard case supplied with the 18 series was a modified gun case is indeed true, adding a unique and somewhat unconventional detail to the instrument’s history.
Image alt text: Close-up of a vintage Martin EM-18 electric guitar, showcasing its solid body design.
The Martin E-18 Models: A Legacy of Innovation
The Martin E-18 models, proudly made in the USA, represent a fascinating, albeit somewhat underappreciated, chapter in Martin’s history. Despite facing challenges in terms of management support and distribution upon their release, these guitars stand as a testament to Martin’s spirit of experimentation and quality craftsmanship. The E-18 series was a bold endeavor, executed with considerable skill and vision.
If you ever encounter a Martin E-18 or EM-18 and have the opportunity to play it, you are likely to be pleasantly surprised. These rare instruments offer a unique glimpse into Martin’s electric guitar journey and are well worth experiencing for any enthusiast of Martin guitars or vintage electric guitars in general.
