Product Description

A modern re-creation of the classic Orchestra model, the Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar is ideal for the guitarist who enjoys fingerstyle techniques. The Retro Series OM-28E carries a distinct vintage-inspired design with modern playability.

C. F. Martin & Co. is inviting musicians to take a trip back in time with the introduction of a groundbreaking guitar technology available in the new four-piece Retro Series: D-18E, D-45E, HD-28E, and OM-28E. Paying homage stylistically and sonically to the iconic classic Martin guitars of the 1930s and '40s, this series features traditional non-cutaway Martin guitars incorporating significant advancements in plugged-in sound reproduction. The series exquisitely captures a sought-after sound, melding traditional models with state-of-the-art technology, and will appeal to musicians and guitar aficionados alike.

Martin designers dove back into the rich history residing in the Martin museum and chose world-class examples to use as "tone donors." These guitars include a 1942 D-45, a 1941 D-28, a 1937 D-18 and a 1934 000-28 (long-scale) on loan from Vintage Instruments. Each of these guitars possesses unique tonal characteristics that can be attributed to the passing of time. The premise was to convince the new guitars into electronically behaving as if they were the museum guitars.

Developing the new Retro Series electronic foundation, Fishman electronically infused the essence of the museum instruments into the newly created Martin counterparts, a new technology for both companies. To build upon this "vintage-conditioned" sound, Martin Guitar teamed up with Fishman and Grammy Award-winning producer Bill VornDick at his historic Mountainside Studios in Nashville for a multi-step process. They utilized VornDick's private collection of rare vintage and boutique microphones, many of which date back to the '30s and are iconic recording industry microphones. This collection adds unique coloring to the plugged-in sound, reminiscent of the first microphones these museum guitars would have ever encountered in the professional recording studio.

The Retro series instruments are vintage in appearance but will have enhanced playability including a modern "High Performance Neck" taper and modified low oval profile. They will all have the new Fishman F1 Aura + electronics system featuring "Easy Mode" with three pre-blended mic/pickup presets and all of the programmability and tweakability of the original F1 Aura in "Performance Mode. "

Great for studio or live, this series reproduces the pristine sound that until now could only be accomplished in a highly-controlled studio setting with talented engineers.

VornDick said it best after hearing the finished product, "The plugged-in sound of these instruments is by far, the best reproduced acoustic sound I've ever heard."

Includes case.

Orchestra body size Solid Sitka spruce top Standard ''X'' scalloped High performance neck Fishman F1 Aura Plus pickup system

Experience the vibe and exceptional electric sound of this special guitar. Order today.

SPECIFICATIONS

Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Model: OM-28E Retro
Construction: Mahogany Blocks/Dovetail Neck Joint
Body Size: 000-14 Fret
Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
Rosette: Style 28
Top Bracing Pattern: Standard ''X'' Scalloped
Top Braces: Solid Sitka Spruce 1/4''
Back Material: Solid East Indian Rosewood
Back Purfling: HD Zig-Zag
Side Material: Solid East Indian Rosewood
Endpiece: none
Endpiece Inlay: none
Binding: Grained Ivoroid
Top Inlay Style: Bold Herringbone
Side Inlay: none
Back Inlay: none
Neck Material: Select Hardwood
Neck Shape: Modified Low Oval Profile w/ Performing Artist Taper
Nut Material: Bone
Headstock: Solid/Square Taper
Headplate: Solid East Indian Rosewood /Large Old Style
Heelcap: Grained Ivoroid
Fingerboard Material: Solid Black Ebony
Scale Length: 25.4''
Number of Frets Clear: 14
Number of Frets Total: 20
Fingerboard Width at Nut: 1-3/4''
Fingerboard Width at 12th Fret: 2-1/8''
Fingerboard Position Inlays: Diamond and Squares- Short Pattern
Fingerboard Binding: none
Finish Back & Sides: Polished Gloss
Finish Top: Polished Gloss w/ Aging Toner
Finish Neck: Satin
Bridge Material: Solid Black Ebony
Bridge Style: 1930s Style Belly w/ Drop-In Saddle
Bridge String Spacing: 2-3/16''
Saddle: 16'' Radius/Compensated/White Tusq
Tuning Machines: Nickel Open-Geared w/ Butterbean knobs
Recommended Strings: Martin SP Lifespan Phosphor Bronze Light Gauge (MSP7100)
Bridge & End Pins: White w/ Tortoise Colored Dots
Pickguard: Delmar Tortoise Color
Case: 433 Hardshell
Interior Label: none
Electronics: Fishman F1 Aura Plus

Custom Guitar's Friend Gold Coverage

Gold Coverage goes above and beyond the manufacturer's warranty to protect your gear from unexpected breakdowns, accidental damage from handling and failures. This plan covers your product for one, two, three or up to five years from your date of purchase, costs just pennies per day and gives you a complete "no-worry" solution for protecting your investment.

Gold Coverage Includes:

Unexpected and unintentional spills, drops and cracks Normal wear and tear Power surges Dust, internal heat and humidity

Other plan features include:

For products over $200, No Lemon Policy applies. If it fails for the same defect 3 times, it is replaced on the 4th breakdown. (Does not apply to failures due to drops, spills, and cracks) For products under $200 experiencing the above failures, a Custom Guitar's Friend gift card will be issued for the full price of the product + tax. Shipping fees covered if required for repair or replacement Plans are transferable in the event merchandise is sold Plans are renewable on new gear

*Limitations and exclusions apply. See terms and conditions for program details

Term for New Gear begins on date of purchase but does not replace the store return policy or manufacturer coverage.

Displaying reviews 1-8

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This runt of the much-hyped new Retro series marks the first post-70s Martin I've purchased, and I imagine if you're reading this you know why I've shied away in recent years. With that in mind, I'll cut right to the point: this is a great instrument. It's supremely comfortable to play, pretty to look at, and it sounds phenomenal whether plugged in or natural. It exhibits thorough tonal range, and it's surprisingly loud for a 000. True to pedigree, you're likely to find your pick is getting seriously neglected, regardless of style. Say what you will about the "Performing Artist" neck, it plays like proverbial butter, and I count myself among fans of the hard V. For those unacquainted with the Fishman Aura, there's definitely a learning curve to the "Performance Mode" of the electronics, but that's totally what you make of it -- the presets in "Easy Mode" sound more than adequate through my Bose L1, with plenty of versatility from setting to setting. Actually, the installed pickup is pretty sweet even without blending. It was the F1 Aura Plus that sold me on this whole idea, but truth be told the OM-28E hasn't clocked many hours plugged in. Hasn't needed to. Still, when the time comes to record or play live, I'm anticipating great things. Bottom line: I'm a Gibson/Guild guy when it comes to new or recent vintage acoustics, and not for lack of trying Martins. This little baby, however, I recommend without reservation. Is it worth the 3k I paid? (Not 3400...always remember to call your friendly MF rep and negotiate a little...) Eye of the beholder. Is it a keeper? No doubt. It does what it claims to, and it feels and plays like a top-shelf piece of equipment.
Martin Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
.Basically, if you're looking for a top of the line guitar that you can play for the rest of your life, this is your guitar. It plays amazingly, sounds great with that tone only a Martin has, and it has amazing intonation. I spent about a year looking at just about every acoustic guitar possible; Deans, Gibsons, Taylors, Breedlove, etc. The Martin stood out after I took the factory tour. They put so much hand done work into their guitars, and I knew any guitar out of their Nazareth factory would be top of line and worth the price. This guitar plays better than any other acoustic (and some electrics) guitar I have ever played. It sounds incredible, and I have difficulty putting it down. The pictures on Custom Guitar's Friend don't do it ANY justice, it is just the most beautiful guitar. ABSOLUTELY recommend it to a friend. GOOD LUCK and HAPPY PLAYING!!
Martin Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
.Got this guitar from my wife as a 60th birthday present, after visiting the Marting Guitar Factory and looking at several models last year.

I felt that this guitar is more representative of all of the Martins, since it is essentialy a reproduction of a 1930's Martin. It wasn't until the 40's they started making larger guitars.

This is simply a stunning guitar, both visually and sonically. It excels for fingerstyle performers, but works equally well for strumming.

I did drop the action on it by 2/32 and now it plays perfectly for what I do.

This will be the last acoustic for me...and I couldn't be happier.
Martin Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
.I've been playing 54 years now and have been through many guitars, both acoustic and electric. This is the last guitar I will ever need because it simply has everything I've been searching for: consistently rich tone, playability, impeccable workmanship, natural beauty, and perfect intonation. My favorite aspect of this instrument is the incredible built in electronics (the Aura Plus). I rarely use the more complicated presets and effects but merely the three 'simple mode' settings. Wow! So don't worry about the price because it will pay for itself in sheer playing pleasure. And I must highly recommend the Martin Retro strings.
Martin Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
.I have been playing acoustic guitars for fifty years. I have played a few Martins over the years and have been contemplating this purchase for at least fifteen years. I wish I had purchased this guitar a long time ago! The tone, strength, and versatility are really unbelievable to me. I had never played this model before until this purchase so to say the least I was nervous. It is gorgeous, plays easily, and I would do it again in a minute!
Martin Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
.Did a lot of research and decided to get this. You can save yourself some money getting the om28 without electronics but I think if you're going that far, might as well get the aura plus system. I was afraid ordering online but it plays and sounds great. My conclusion? Order this guitar if you have the money and are interested in its specs.
Martin Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
.I bought this as a retirement gift to myself and I couldn't be more happy. After deciding many years ago that I would end up with a 000-28, I changed my mind at the last minute and went with this OM. Someone said it was like the Swiss army knife of guitars and that is spot on. Pick or finger style, just get ready to smile. I've always played Martins and I readily admit other acoustics play a little easier. Not any more. If a guitar could play itself (they can't) this one would. I can't wait for it to be 10 years older and opened up. I haven't played out for years, but if ever I do again, this will be with me.
Martin Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
.Awesome guitar...u can get rid of microphones with very good results..esp, in studio...very balanced sound flat picked or finger style..not as boomy and dead sounding as other D-28's I've had..It's all what u prefer
Martin Retro Series OM-28E Orchestra Model Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
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