Martinez - Standard MC-88S RN

Martinez gives the Standard MC-88S RN a range of shimmering effects that begin with the varnish. The high-gloss polyurethane finish, in a natural colour, allows the wood grain to show through in the light rather than covering it up – a lustre that accompanies the instrument from the rehearsal room to the stage.

Beneath this varnish, the solid European spruce top captures every vibration with clarity; a light-coloured wood that reflects the attack as much as it amplifies it. The Indian rosewood back and sides enclose the body in a darker hue, a visual contrast that echoes the sonic contrast between the sparkling treble and the sustained bass.

The neck continues this continuity of material. The Spanish-style construction joins the mahogany neck to the body without a break in the line, and the truss rod, adjustable in both directions, keeps it straight despite the tension of the strings. Twenty frets run along the rosewood fingerboard, twelve of which are before the body joint, with mother-of-pearl inlays at the 5th, 7th and 9th frets that catch the light to guide the eye. The 52 mm wide bone nut allows each string to move freely without interfering with the others.

The Martinez Gold Tuning Machines 88 tuners complete the headstock with gold-plated hardware that matches the Indian rosewood bridge, fitted with original Martinez strings. An optional electrified version, featuring a cutaway and a Fishman ISY-301 preamp, opens the door to the stage without the need for an external microphone.