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Martin

Martin D-X1E Koa Acoustic-Electric Guitar

  • Dreadnought body, koa-pattern HPL top, back and sides
  • 25.4 inch scale length
  • Piezo electronics with chromatic tuner, volume, tone and phase
  • 1/4 inch mono plug output
  • 6 strings, right-handed
  • Birch laminate neck
  • Softshell case included

Updated 23 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A koa-look dreadnought with onboard electronics and a case in the box, for players who want durability over all-wood construction. The listing gives no warranty terms beyond contacting the seller.

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ASIN: B0CN9P43L9Model: D-X1E KoaCategory: Acoustic-Electric Guitars

Hand Orientations Available

Right

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Overview

Not a traditional all-wood acoustic, this dreadnought uses koa-pattern high pressure laminate on the top, back and sides. Martin electronics with a built-in chromatic tuner and satin tuners complete a guitar made for plugging in.

Laminate construction makes this a guitar for gigging and travel, and the dreadnought shape brings loud projection with strong bass. Martin states it suits any genre and experience level. The limitation is that top, back and sides are laminate, so the character of aged tonewood is absent.

Who it's for

Beginners and gigging players who want one guitar for the couch and the stage will use it fully. Those who care about all-wood tone, or who want warranty terms in writing, should look at the seller details first.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Loud, bass-forward dreadnought voice
  • Built-in chromatic tuner and phase control
  • Softshell case included
  • Laminate body adds durability
Cons
  • Top, back and sides are laminate
  • Warranty terms not listed
  • Listed as right-handed only

Performance notes

A dreadnought body projects strongly and carries a deep low end, which is the voice Martin lists. The laminate top responds differently from a thin wood top, favoring durability over delicacy. Plugged in, the volume, tone and phase controls let the player shape the amplified sound at any volume.

Specifications

BrandMartin
ModelD-X1E Koa
Dimensions & fit
Scale Length25.4 inches
Hand OrientationRight
Instrument SizeLarge (dreadnought)
Construction & materials
Top Material TypeHigh pressure laminate
Body Material TypeHigh pressure laminate
Neck Material TypeBirch laminate
Fretboard Material TypeEngineered wood
ColorNatural
Back Material TypeFigured koa HPL
Included components
Included ComponentsSoftshell case
Other details
Guitar Pickup ConfigurationPiezoelectric or combination
Connector Type1/4 inch mono phone plug
Guitar Bridge SystemFixed
Number of Strings6
Sound profilePure dreadnought tone with strong bass

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Frequently asked questions

What is included with the Martin D-X1E Koa?

The listing names a softshell case with the guitar. It does not list a cable, strap or tools.

Is the Martin D-X1E Koa an all-wood guitar?

No. The top, back and sides are koa-pattern high pressure laminate, and the neck is birch laminate.

Does the Martin D-X1E Koa have a built-in tuner?

Yes. The Martin electronics include a built-in chromatic tuner plus volume, tone and phase controls.

Can a left-handed player use the Martin D-X1E Koa?

The listing gives the hand orientation as right, so a left-handed player should look for a left-handed model.