Sunday, February 13, 2011

How to Buy a Martin Sigma Guitar

By Rand MacCartney


Looking for a Martin Sigma? Not sure if you should pull the trigger on buying the discontinued Martin Sigma guitar? Here's some facts about this popular acoustic guitar--and tips for locating this hard-to-find instrument.

History of the Martin Sigma

In early 70's Martin Guitars started out a new distinct guitars named Sigma to compete with the influx of economical imported guitars from Japan. The Martin Sigma guitar was generally an acoustic dreadnought, although there were stage & classical guitars made in that time.

Martin sigma guitars were discontinued in '07. The normal Sigma is recognized by a deep, rich sound though not equivalent to the best of Martin's guitars, was sometimes a great deal better than other imports. (The guitars were produced in Japan, then later Korea and Taiwan, following the direct guidelines of Martin guitars.)

Martin Sigma... Manufactured in the united states?

The Sigma guitars were named by their quality and the materials used. For example, the company labeled them D for dreadnought, M for Mahogany, and R for rosewood 1-7, 7 being the highest quality in the line.

There's debate regarding where the Martin Sigma guitars were really being made. Owners of many of the guitars swear they were produced in the united states as the back stamp or tag says so.

The truth is that none of their guitars were totally produced in the united states. Occasionally, the materials were cut and produced in Japan and the pieces were constructed in the united states.

It's not possible to say that any Sigma guitar was sourced, produced, cut, and assembled in the united states alone, though.

How to Find a Martin Sigma Guitar

Since the Sigma brand has been discontinued, it is rare that you will find it in your regular music store. However, there are still places where they can be found, including in second hand shops.

You might have luck looking in craigslist or Amazon for people selling their Sigma guitars. Be cautious when purchasing on the web.

It is always better to be able to inspect the piece in person. Musical instruments are delicate, and you do not want to rely on a picture alone.




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