GPC-X2E Macassar Guitar

The CITES restrictions of recent years may have been annoying, inconvenient and expensive but they were only the most recent chapter in a long history of conflict between the desire for high quality materials and responsible and sustainable handling of natural resources. Martin had to move from Brazilian to East Indian Rosewood in 1969 due to the increasing scarcity of the former, anticipating the eventual ban in 1992. Honduras Mahogany became so rare that nowadays export from its original region is banned and all new timber of that species is plantation grown in other countries which is why it is now traded under the name “Genuine Mahogany”. In the late nineties Chris Martin announced, he wanted to explore and develop new, alternative materials in advance of when the company might have no choice but to use them. The result is High Pressure Laminate (HPL), a material made of multiple layers of special paper, bonded with resin. It is usually finished with woodgrain which is printed to the outer layer but can also be left black or printed with any kind of graphic. HPL is the material that the sides and backs of all and the tops of some X-Series models are made of. This makes them very stable and sturdy. To keep up with the stability of the bodies, many X-Series models also feature necks made of birch laminate, while others use select hardwood. Since its introduction the X-Series has been the line with the most unusual and experimental models, such as the Alternative X from 2001 with an aluminium top (not available anymore) or numerous art design models with bold, colourful graphics. The necks and solid wood tops come with a hand rubbed finish. The choice of materials and production in the Mexican plant also makes the X-Series the most affordable in Martins catalogue. All X-Series models are equipped with Fishman® MX Electronics unless noted otherwise.

This Grand Performance Cutaway guitar has a solid sapele top and select hard wood neck and fingerboard. The fret markers and rosette are mother of pearl patternd inlays. Back and sides are macassar finished HPL.