Top Model

Martin SC-10E

- By Paul Riario

VENTURING TOWARD UNCHARTED territory, Martin Guitar took a plunge in 2020 by introducing the avant-garde SC13E model geared toward players who favor an acoustic guitar with the same degree of playability as an electric. It was a bold move from the time-honored, pedigreed company that’s well aware that its most ardent followers prefer their instruments deeply steeped in Martin’s most traditional shapes and sounds. But despite its unconventional design, it seems the tried-and-true SC-13E became a successful gamble that paid off because, for 2022, Martin Guitar launched three additional SC Models: the SC-10E, SC-13E Special and the SC-13E Special Burst. While the unique architecture of the SC-13E remains intact — the Sure Align neck system, Tone Tension X-Bracing and asymmetrical body shape with dramatically sloped cutaway — catchy cosmetics, electronics and different tonewoods comprise some of the latest changes depending on the model. Since I already own the SC-13E, I dove at the chance to review the more affordable SC-10E.