It seems for a long time, opinions on Maton Guitars often came from those who hadn’t truly experienced them firsthand. Thankfully, that’s changing. With increased availability across the USA and beyond, guitarists now have the opportunity to actually play Maton guitars and form their own informed opinions, rather than relying on hearsay or speculation. And the verdict from many who have played them? Maton guitars are exceptional instruments.
While they might differ from what some players are accustomed to, Maton guitars offer outstanding quality for their price point. They are particularly renowned for their amplified performance, perfectly suited for musicians who plug in. However, with the right wood combination, they can also deliver a spectacular unplugged sound.
Having owned six Maton guitars myself, each unique, I’ve gathered some key insights.
The Maton 808 shape, essentially a deep-bodied OM, stands out as incredibly versatile. However, the choice of tonewoods significantly impacts its character. Blackwood, in my experience, tends to be less resonant and clear, almost sounding muted acoustically. However, this characteristic translates into an exceptionally strong and focused plugged-in tone, making it ideal for stage performance.
In contrast, Maton guitars featuring Bunya tops with Queensland Maple back and sides offer a far richer and more resonant unplugged sound. While still performing admirably when amplified, the difference between their acoustic and electric voices isn’t as dramatic as with Blackwood models. For players who value a great acoustic tone alongside excellent plugged-in capabilities, Bunya and Queensland Maple is a compelling combination.
Then there’s the Maton Mini, a truly unique instrument. Acoustically, it’s understandably less impressive due to its diminutive size. I’ve owned both Bunya/Queensland Maple and Spruce/Blackwood versions. The volume is naturally lower, but surprisingly, the Bunya/Queensland Maple Mini still produced a delightful unplugged tone. However, plug a Maton Mini in, and you unlock its true potential. It’s astonishing how such a small guitar can produce such a massive, rich, and full sound when amplified. It truly defies expectations.
Across my collection of Matons—two Minis, two 808s, and two dreadnoughts—my preference has become clear. I personally find Blackwood lacking in tonal appeal for my playing style. Conversely, I wholeheartedly endorse the Bunya and Queensland Maple combination. In a dreadnought body, especially, I would confidently put its unplugged sound up against any wood combination I’ve owned or played.
It’s worth considering Tommy Emmanuel’s relationship with Maton. Tommy’s percussive and harmonic-rich playing style is extraordinary, and perhaps not directly comparable to most players’ approaches. He has an extensive collection of guitars from various esteemed makers. However, his long-standing loyalty to Maton is noteworthy. A key factor in his choice is likely Maton’s pickup system. It’s exceptionally well-engineered to capture the nuances of his complex playing, arguably better than many other systems. With three distinct pickup types integrated, it’s incredibly versatile. Of course, for specific genres or jam sessions, even Tommy might reach for a different guitar, but for his signature sound and live performances, Maton is clearly a central part of his sonic identity.
In conclusion, Maton guitars deserve serious consideration. They offer a unique blend of quality, innovation, and exceptional plugged-in performance. While personal preferences for tonewoods will always exist, exploring the range of Maton guitars, particularly models featuring Bunya and Queensland Maple, is a worthwhile endeavor for any guitarist seeking a versatile and high-quality instrument.
Alt text: A guitarist passionately playing a Maton acoustic guitar on a brightly lit stage, showcasing the guitar’s stage presence.
Alt text: Detailed view of a Maton guitar headstock highlighting the distinctive Maton logo, symbolizing Australian craftsmanship and quality.
Alt text: A collection of Maton guitars in different body shapes including 808, Mini, and Dreadnought, illustrating the variety within the Maton guitar range.
