The Grand Jumbo is a relatively new Martin body size, but it is a welcomed addition to the Martin lineup and an excellent fit for a 12-string neck. The Grand J measures 17" across on the lower bout, so it is more of a true jumbo than Martin's traditional J body (which is essentially a deeper 0000/M body). Nevertheless, with the Grand J-16E 12-String, Martin reduced the standard depth so that this Grand J body is slender like a 000. It still packs a huge sound, but it doesn't feel quite as massive in your lap.
Like the other Martin 16-Series models, the Grand J-16E 12-String is all business. Solid Spruce top, solid East Indian Rosewood back and sides, genuine Ebony fingerboard, scalloped X bracing under the hood, and even Fishman electronics to boot! This made-in-USA powerhouse is a full-bodied, muscular guitar that generates lush, well-balanced harmonics with strong, solid low end. Yet, it remains expressive and articulate, so while it can handle heavy 12-string strumming, the Grand J-16E is also a great choice for drop tunings and intricate 12-string fingerstyle.
This 2023 Grand J-16E 12-String is gently used. The back of the neck is a little shiny from play, and there's some very minor finish wear to the middle of the back (see photos). But the protective film is still on the pickguard, and we'd rate the overall condition as more "Near Mint" or "New Old Stock." It includes its original padded gig bag, which doesn't look like it ever left the house.
- Body Size: 14-Fret Grand J (000 Depth)
- Top: Spruce
- Back & Sides: East Indian Rosewood
- Top Finish: Gloss Lacquer
- Back & Side Finish: Satin Lacquer
- Bracing: Scalloped X-Brace
- Brace Material: Spruce, 2-5/16"
- Scale Length: 25.4"
- Nut: Bone, 1-13/16"
- Saddle: Compensated White Tusq, 2-5/16" Spacing
- Fingerboard: Ebony
- Fingerboard Inlay: Mother-of-Pearl Dot
- Bridge: Ebony Modern Belly
- Bridge Pins: Black Tusq w/ Mother-of-Pearl inlay
- Tuning Machines: Chrome Enclosed Gear
- Electronics: Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2
If you're looking to add a quality 12-string to the quiver, look no further! This 2023 Martin Grand J-16E is a 12-string that brings a lot to the table. It is versatile, and it packs a big sound, but it is an approachable size and it doesn't lack single-note definition and articulation.