GEAR REVIEW
MARTIN ’ S NEW GPC-13E IS BURSTING WITH FEATURES ! | Eric Dahl
KEY FEATURES
• Cutaway Spruce top
• Ziricote Veneer Back and Sides
• Fishman MX-T Electronics
• Scalloped X-Bracing
• Mother of Pearl Rosette
At the recent NAMM show this past June in Anaheim , California C . F . Martin Guitars had a bevy of new instruments to release and showcase . One of these was the GPC-13E Burst that Worship Musician received for this review . Although a member of the Road Series the GPC-13E Burst model is a bit flashier than other acoustics in this line .
The GPC-11E was a big hit for Martin and this model builds on that concept . The Grand Performance body shape is perfect for praise team leaders and other reinforcement musicians . It has a full bottom end with comfortable ergonomics when played sitting or standing and the cutaway is a must .
Martin didn ’ t skimp on the tone woods for the GPC-13E as it has a Spruce Top and Ziricote veneer back and sides that are stunning . It almost seems a shame that the Ziricote is on the back of the guitar where more people can ’ t see and appreciate it .
The guitar also features Martin ’ s Performing Artist series neck that is essentially graduated so that it is slimmer near the nut where you chord most and wider towards the body .
The Fishman MX-T electronics provide quality sound reproduction on the GPC-13E Burst and I appreciate the hidden in sound hole controls . I ’ m a big fan of the built-in chromatic tuner that also auto-mutes the guitar and a phase switch to counter feedback .
Cosmetically the mother of pearl rosette and white top and back binding accent the body beautifully . The finger board is certified Richlite as is the bridge . Martin ’ s enclosed tuners do an excellent job of keeping the GPC-13E Burst in tune . The 1.75 ” wide nut is made of Corian and the bridge saddle is a compensated White Tusq build .
There is a lot to love about this guitar unplugged or plugged in - it delivers . I prefer the burst finish over the natural tops , they just look warmer and