The Martin D‐12E Retro brings together vintage aesthetics and modern performance in a Road Series acoustic‐electric that's built for players who demand both style and substance. This dreadnought features a solid spruce top paired with solid sapele back and sides, all finished in a striking full‐body gloss with aging toner that gives it that classic, road‐worn appeal. The scalloped X‐bracing enhances the guitar's natural resonance and clarity, while the dreadnought body shape produces the bold, projective tone with strong bass response that Martin is renowned for.
Playability is front and centre with the Performing Artist neck profile featuring a high‐performance taper, making it comfortable for extended playing sessions and modern techniques. The 25.4" scale length and 14‐fret neck joint provide excellent access across the ebony fingerboard, which is adorned with old‐style dot inlays in faux mother‐of‐pearl. Vintage‐inspired appointments including a multi‐stripe rosette, nickel open gear tuners with butterbean knobs, and Brazilian Rosewood HPL headplate all pay homage to Martin's iconic Style 18 heritage.
The onboard Martin E1 electronics system with built‐in tuner makes this guitar stage‐ready straight out of the softshell case. Pre‐strung with Martin Authentic Acoustic Lifespan® 2.0 Phosphor Bronze Light gauge strings, the D‐12E Retro is ready to perform from the moment you pick it up.