Watch Paul Riario get a big tone from Martin’s new 'crisp and loud' Grand J-16E 12-string acoustic

In the mood for some big – and we mean big – acoustic guitar news?

Well then, feast your eyes on Martin’s new and “exceptional” full-bodied jumbo 12-string acoustic, the Grand J-16E. 

“What’s that?,” asks Guitar World Tech Editor Paul Riario. “A jumbo 12-string from Martin? Well, yes, it’s true.”

Indeed it is. But as Paul says, “Keep in mind, while jumbo 12-string guitars can feel unwieldy, Martin’s Grand J body style is a full-sized jumbo with a body thickness reduced to Martin’s 000 depth for added comfort, making it super easy to play.”

Other standout features on the Grand J-16E?

How about a Sitka spruce top with East Indian rosewood back and sides, an ebony fingerboard and bridge, a dovetail neck joint, a high-performance taper neck profile and scalloped X-bracing?

There's also a bold herringbone with multi-stripe rosette, antique white binding, a tortoise pattern pickguard, a 25.4-inch scale length, bone nut, gloss top finish, chrome enclosed gear tuners, Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2 electronics and much more.

“Even with its relaxed dimensions, the Martin Grand J-16E 12-string doesn’t compromise any of its rich tone or resonant volume, offering a jumbo 12-string jangle that’s warmly crisp and loud,” Paul says.

“Even better, I find it’s one of the finest neck carves for effortless playability on a 12-string. Definitely check it out.”

To take Paul’s advice, head to Martin Guitar.