C.F. Martin & Co. has officially launched the refreshed Martin 16 Series, a new lineup of all-solid-wood acoustic-electric guitars handcrafted in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, according to Music Instrument News. This expansion targets retailers by offering diverse body shapes ranging from 00L models to Grand Jumbo 12-strings, designed to appeal to players seeking distinct visual styles alongside traditional tone.
The series introduces bold gloss-top finish options including Blue Denim, Cherry Cola, and Black Smoke, alongside traditional natural tops. A significant product development is the DSS-16E, which marks the manufacturer’s first short-scale sloped-shoulder Dreadnought featuring a 24.9-inch scale length. Every model in the lineup comes standard with premium L.R. Baggs Element electronics to ensure stage-ready amplified sound for performing musicians.
Construction variations include solid spruce tops paired with either satin solid mahogany or East Indian rosewood back and sides to deliver specific tonal profiles. To support retail merchandising strategies, the company also released limited lifestyle accessories such as themed steins, apparel, and leather straps inspired by the new finish colors. The refreshed 16 Series and accompanying merchandise became available to the music products market on September 15, 2026.
For more information, visit musicinstrumentnews.co.uk.
