The allure of a well-loved, vintage-looking instrument is undeniable. While artificially aging guitars is a more recent trend, violin makers have been antiquing their creations for centuries. For guitarists drawn to instruments with character and a played-in feel straight out of the case, the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster guitar presents a compelling option. This model captures that coveted worn aesthetic while delivering the renowned Martin craftsmanship and tone.
Built for the Working Musician (and Beyond)
Martin designed the StreetMaster series, which includes both this 000 model and a dreadnought version, with the working musician in mind. However, the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster, with its unique distressed satin finish and all-solid wood construction, offers a package that will appeal to any discerning guitar enthusiast. It’s a guitar that blends vintage vibe with modern playability and sonic richness.
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 optimal resonance, Martin’s straightforward dovetail neck joint for stability, and a simplified aesthetic without binding. While sharing similarities with the popular Martin 000-15M, the StreetMaster distinguishes itself with a katalox fingerboard and bridge, and the absence of a pickguard, contributing to its ready-for-anything, slightly rough-and-tumble appearance.
Back view of the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster guitar showcasing its mahogany body and distressed finish.
Perhaps it’s the pre-worn look, but there’s an immediate sense of ease when you pick up the StreetMaster. It feels less precious, more like a tool ready to be used. Even with other guitars vying for attention, the review experience mirrored the original author’s – the 000-15M StreetMaster became a go-to instrument for daily playing. Whether practicing new songs, working through musical ideas, or simply enjoying casual strumming, its comfortable modified low-oval neck shape with Martin’s standard taper felt instantly familiar. The triple-0 body size sits perfectly whether fingerpicking intricate passages or strumming chords.
Sonically, the all-mahogany construction of the StreetMaster delivers exactly what you’d expect – and hope for. The guitar boasts exceptional clarity and a strong fundamental tone. The midrange is prominent and focused, with a pleasing dry and woody character in the lower frequencies. The highs are sweet and articulate without being overly bright, and the bass response is balanced, avoiding boominess. This sonic profile makes the Martin 000-15m Guitar an excellent choice for singer-songwriters and anyone who appreciates a balanced, full tone that isn’t overpowering in any particular frequency range. It’s a versatile sound that sits well in various musical contexts.
The effortless playability and rich, resonant tones of the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster are truly captivating, constantly inviting you to pick it up and play. The factory-distressed finish further enhances this appeal, removing any hesitation about taking it along or simply enjoying it without undue worry. Ultimately, the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster guitar is simply a fun, inspiring instrument that you’ll find hard to put down.
Close-up of the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster soundhole, highlighting the mahogany top and rosette.
Martin 000-15M StreetMaster Specs
Body: 000-size, 14-fret all-mahogany body; non-scalloped A-frame X-braced top; katalox belly-style bridge with compensated drop-in bone saddle; satin distressed mahogany burst finish
Neck: 25.4″-scale mahogany neck with dovetail neck joint; 20-fret katalox fingerboard with abalone diamonds-and-squares short pattern position inlays; 1-11/16″-wide bone nut; Golden Age Relic nickel tuners with cream knobs; satin finish
Other: Martin SP Acoustic 92/8 Phosphor Bronze Light (.012–.054); soft gig bag; available left-handed
Price: $1,799 (MSRP); $1,399 (street)
Made in: USA
Explore the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster on Martinguitar.com
Check the Martin 000-15M StreetMaster price on Amazon
Originally featured in the May 2018 issue of Acoustic Guitar magazine.
