Sigma by Martin 1990s S00045V

Product Description

Sigma by Martin / 1990s S00045V

A '90s Japanese-made Sigma modeled on the prewar 12-fret 000-45

Sigma is a brand Martin launched in 1970. In the '90s some models were made in Japan, with a serious lineup inspired by Martin's classic models. Among them, the S00045V is modeled on the prewar 12-fret 000-45. With a 12-fret neck joint, slotted headstock, and even Style 45 appointments, it is one of the most elaborate Sigmas.

The top is solid spruce, with laminated Brazilian rosewood (Jacaranda) back and sides. Although laminated, the outer layer clearly shows Brazilian rosewood grain, and its look lives up to the original. The slotted headstock has a Brazilian rosewood veneer with a torch inlay in the center. Snowflake fingerboard inlays, a pyramid bridge with pointed ends, and abalone around the body - all the elements of Style 45 are there.

The neck is mahogany, with an ebony fingerboard and bridge. The nut width is about 48mm, a wide design typical of prewar 12-fret guitars. The grip is on the thin side, with a slight V shape. It fits the hand easily for its width - just right for fingerpicking relaxed chords.
The scale is 628mm, with soft string tension. The 12-fret joint places the bridge closer to the center of the lower bout, a construction designed to make the whole body resonate.

The sound has the brightness and snap typical of Brazilian rosewood, with a satisfying, ringing roar on full strums. 12-fret guitars tend to have thick lows, which can upset the balance when strumming; this one has tight low-mids, as laminated guitars do, so it doesn't get muddy even when playing chords. Fingerpicked, it of course gives a clean, well-defined tone.
Ideal for anyone who wants a 12-fret, slotted-head Style 45 at hand, even if a real 000-45 is out of reach.

[SPEC]
TOP: Solid Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Brazilian Rosewood (Laminated)
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Ebony
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 48mm
SCALE: 628mm
CASE: Non Original Hard Shell Case

[Repairs / Replaced Parts / Cosmetic Condition]
As this is a used/vintage item, the information below reflects only what our inspection could confirm.
- Small dings, scuffs and other wear consistent with its age.
- A surface crack on the side at the shoulder. Because of the laminated construction it does not go through to the inside, and it is not a problem as is.
- The endpin hole was enlarged for a past pickup installation. It currently has a wooden endpin.
- Tuners have been replaced with Gotoh gold tuners.
- As the case is non-original, the fit is a little tight.
- The hook on the case's dial lock is weak and the dial lock does not work properly, so it cannot be locked.

[Playing Condition]
- Action at the 12th fret: 6th string 2.2mm, 1st string 1.6mm
- Saddle height: approx. 2.0mm
- No choking or buzzing; plays well.

[Peace of Mind Warranty: 6 months]

[Home Trial Service]
Since a mail-order purchase doesn't give you the chance to try the instrument in person, we offer a 6-day home trial after delivery. Please try it out at home, and if you're not satisfied, we'll refund the purchase price.
Note: round-trip shipping costs are the customer's responsibility.