MARTIN USED CTM 00-18 VTS Premium Sitka Spruce '19 Martin

A custom shop model based on the regular model, featuring D-45 grade materials!


Regarding the condition of this instrument, there are some minor scratches and scuffs typical of used items, as well as some dullness on the neck and metal parts.
Throughout the instrument, shrinkage of the binding material is observed, resulting in slight unevenness in the painted surface around the body's perimeter and near the soundhole.
There are no noticeable dents or large scratches, so considering that it is six years old since its manufacture, it can be said to be in reasonably good condition.

Upon arrival at our store, the product undergoes a complete inspection and setup at our partner workshop, and any detached binding on the waist area is re-glued.
The frets do not appear to show significant wear, but the ball-shaped finish on the sides of the fretboard suggests that they may have been leveled by a repairman in the past.
Similarly, the nut saddle has also been replaced with one made of cow bone, which is different from the original part.

There are no issues like the high bow often found in Martin guitars, and there is no buzzing or dead notes when playing.
The top is in near-new condition, and the string height is set slightly low.


This model is a custom shop version based on the '00-18 standard'.
One of its most notable features is the use of 'VTS Premium Grade Sitka Spruce' for the top wood.
Martin grades the wood it receives into eight different grades, and uses different models depending on the quality. The highest grade, 8, is used even in the D-45, the top-of-the-line acoustic guitar.
This material is rarely used in regular line products, but this custom model makes it possible. It is a product that stands apart from the regular Double O.

In addition, this wood features VTS processing, which is only used in higher-end models such as the Modern Deluxe.
VTS stands for Vintage Tone System, a system developed by Martin's research and development team. By applying thermochemical treatment to the wood, the moisture contained within the wood is released. This results in a responsive and lustrous tone, as if the guitar had been played for many years.

In addition, it incorporates specifications that differentiate it from the regular model, as it is a custom-shop-made product.
The fretboard and bridge are made of jet-black ebony. The body binding features a tortoiseshell pattern with a nice grain. The bridge pins are made of ebony and adorned with abalone dots.
This custom-shop guitar features a neck made of genuine mahogany.
"It's the familiar Double O, but there's something different about it..." The unique style of this model is exuded through these subtle details.


In terms of sound characteristics, it has a more prominent tone with superior volume and clarity compared to the regular model.
While retaining the unique range and rustic feel characteristic of the body shape, it leaves a beautiful impression with its supple fundamental tone and open overtones.
For fingerpicking, it produces a good resonance and responds well, and when strumming, it has that characteristic Martin airiness that envelops the player.
It could be said that this design overcomes the weaknesses of the double-O shape, namely its lack of resonance and sound projection.

The 00-18 was once used by Elvis Presley and Paul Simon.
This is a top-of-the-line custom model that I highly recommend to both those who already own a Martin and those who are planning to buy one.

Top : VTS Premium Grade Sitka Spruce
Side & Back: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Black Ebony
Bridge: Black Ebony
Nut Width: 44.5mm
Scale Length: 632mm

Includes original hard case