The combination of a 000-body and a 24.9" scale length provides the ultimate fingerpicker's guitar—a tone that is balanced and steeped in nuance, and an instrument that remains smoothly responsive and deeply expressive. With such refined sound, ornate Style-42 pearl appointments add an appropriate touch of elegance. Although it was only originally available from 1938 to 1943, the 000-42 was famously chosen by Eric Clapton for his MTV Unplugged performance. After Clapton clearly demonstrated what a ripping fingerstyle player could do with this template, Martin reissued the 000-42 to huge demand. It has remained one of the Style-42 mainstays of their Standard Series ever since.
As much as we might try to insist otherwise, the appeal of 000-42 extends way beyond its tone. Make no mistake—it's an ornate guitar, but it's not over the top or decadent. It's high-end and flashy, but not too much. Also, the Style-42 pearl top border may not affect the sound whatsoever, but it certainly inspires the player to push to a higher level. When you add snowflake fingerboard inlays, elaborate binding all around, and the distinctive "C.F. Martin" vertical inlay on the peghead, the result is exquisite style that is the perfect match to such inspiring tone. All in all, the 000-42 will find a way to impress you every step of the way.
This 2006 Martin 000-42 features a Sitka Spruce top and East Indian Rosewood back and sides. True to the model's reputation, shimmering, bell-like trebles are balanced nicely by punchy mid and defined bass presence. Even with the lightest touch, notes bloom, and the wide dynamic range makes for a guitar that is deeply expressive. The 000-body and the shorter 24.9" scale are certainly big factors in this, but under the hood, scalloped X-braces have perhaps the biggest influence. The lighter bracing allows the top to move evenly with a light touch. Because it doesn't need the added tension of a longer scale length, the 000 is packed with subtlety because the short scale embellishes all the delicate nuances of your playing style.
This 2006 Martin 000-42 is in excellent condition, and although it is 14 years old, it shows minimal signs of play and use (see photos). Its current setup is low and inviting. This is a fantastic Style-42 guitar that is well deserving of the iconic "C.F. Martin" vertical inlay on the peghead. This is the perfect guitar for a player who is ready for the next level. It includes its original case.