I preordered it as soon as the made-in-Nazareth PA version was leaked in the MAP list sent to dealers back in January. It just arrived today, and I LOVE it!
Solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, spruce top, spiral “Velocity” neck, and that super cool fully adjustable neck joint that Martin patented with the SC-13E.
It plays just amazingly as an acoustic, and the LR Baggs Anthem system (TRU-MIC under-bridge microphone, combined with Element bridge pickup) makes for a very natural sounding plugged in sound. You can also blend the pickups for interesting effects as it’s amplified.
Comes a form-fitting hard shell case. I did buy one for my SC-13E, so it’s the same design, but does NOT come with the built-in D’addario humidity sensor, as the SC-13E case did. No big deal, but thought I’d mention it, in case anyone was expecting that.
It’s a fantastic guitar, and I’m fortunate to be able to own one. If you’ve been waiting for a made-in-USA version of the SC-13E, and didn’t want to spring $8,000 for the Custom Shop SC 2022, then maybe this one is for you. They also have an SC-18E (all solid mahogany back and sides) for $500 less.
Cheers!
Yes, that patented “Sure-Align” neck joint is one of the best features that drew me to the SC series initially. It’s great. I also love the neck profile - it’s very much like the electric guitars I’m accustomed to. It’s a fantastic instrument.