Introduction
Martin Guitar has been crafting exceptional acoustic guitars since 1833, and is known worldwide for their high-quality instruments. The company pioneered many innovations in guitar design and construction over the years, constantly striving to improve tone and playability.
The Orchestra Model, or OM, is one of Martin’s most popular body shapes. First introduced in the 1930s, it’s slightly smaller than a dreadnought with a rounded lower bout for enhanced comfort. The balanced size and proportions of OM guitars make them extremely versatile for various playing styles.
The Martin OM-21 is widely considered one of the best OM guitars available. It utilizes solid tonewoods and Martin’s signature craftsmanship to deliver superb acoustic tone and performance. Sitka spruce gives the OM-21 a lively and responsive voice, while East Indian rosewood backs and sides provide rich, complex overtones. Martin’s scalloped bracing further enhances the guitar’s resonance. When it comes to playability, the OM-21 features a comfortable neck profile and effortless action. Visually, it exemplifies Martin’s meticulous attention to detail with attractive binding and inlay work. For players seeking the ideal balance of warm, balanced tone and buttery playability, the OM-21 stands above other options in Martin’s catalog and the acoustic market in general.
Martin OM-21 Specifications
The Martin OM-21 features a classic Orchestra Model body shape with a total length of 24.9" and a width of 15". This comfortable, mid-sized profile provides balanced tone and playability.
For tonewoods, the OM-21 utilizes a solid Sitka spruce top paired with solid East Indian rosewood back and sides. This combination produces a rich, complex tone with excellent projection and sustain. The spruce top offers crisp treble tones while the rosewood back and sides provide warmth and resonance.
The neck is constructed from solid Spanish cedar for stability and sustainability. It has a low oval profile that is comfortable and smooth. The fretboard is made from solid black ebony which complements the warm rosewood body.
One of the most notable features of the OM-21 is its scalloped X-bracing pattern. This specialized bracing allows the spruce top to vibrate freely, resulting in excellent resonance, volume, and dynamics. It gives the OM-21 a very responsive and balanced tone.
Other premium appointments include an ebony bridge and bone saddle, open-gear tuning machines, and a tortoise pickguard. The guitar comes complete with a deluxe hardshell case for protection during transport and storage.
Sound and Tone Quality
The Martin OM-21 is renowned for its balanced, articulate tone that excels across various styles of playing. The solid Sitka spruce top provides excellent clarity and projection, while the East Indian rosewood back and sides lend a refined low end and complexity to the OM-21’s voice.
When played fingerstyle, the OM-21 showcases its dynamic range and responsiveness. Notes ring out with sustained resonance while individual strings are defined. Strumming reveals the OM-21’s rich, shimmering overtones that fill the sonic space. It’s also an exceptional flatpicking guitar, with the crisp treble cutting through any band mix while still retaining warmth.
Compared to other popular Martin models, the OM-21 strikes a superb tonal balance. It offers more low-end than the 000-18, which has a stronger midrange emphasis. Yet it has slightly less bass focus than the iconic D-28, making the OM-21 a versatile fit for various genres. Many players favor the OM-21’s voice for its complexity and ability to blend well with vocals or other instruments in an ensemble.
The scalloped X-bracing pattern also contributes to the OM-21’s excellent tonal qualities. By scalloping and thinning the braces, Martin achieves better resonance and allows the top to vibrate freely. This gives the OM-21 a very responsive and organic quality that makes the guitar feel alive under the player’s fingers. Whether gently fingerpicking or aggressively strumming, the OM-21 dynamic range shines through.
Overall, the Martin OM-21 lives up to its reputation with an exquisite tonal balance. Crisp treble, rich lows, and excellent projection make it a highly versatile acoustic guitar suitable for all styles of playing. The East Indian rosewood and Sitka spruce tonewoods are voiced beautifully in this model, pleasing players of all levels.
Playability and Comfort
The OM-21 features Martin’s comfortable low oval neck profile that provides excellent playability across the fretboard. The neck has a satin finish that allows for smooth, fast transitions during lead or solo playing. The string action on the OM-21 is set fairly low from the factory, making fretting and chord changes easy without buzzing.
Overall, the OM-21 is a very comfortable guitar to play in any position, whether seated or standing. The body contours and waist allow the instrument to fit nicely against your body. The weight is also distributed well so the guitar doesn’t feel neck-heavy or cumbersome during longer practice or performance sessions.
Compared to other popular Martin OM models like the OM-28, the OM-21 has a very similar feel and playing experience. The neck shape and string action are comparable, providing the same ease of fretting and chord voicing. The OM-28 may have a slightly heavier build depending on the exact wood selections, but in general these Orchestra-size Martins share great playability right out of the case.
Aesthetic Appeal
The Martin OM-21 is a visually stunning acoustic guitar available in several classic finish options that highlight the instrument’s meticulous handcrafted details. Players can choose between a Natural finish that showcases the guitar’s premium solid wood construction, a rich Sunburst that provides an elegant vintage look, or an Ambertone finish with a transparent shaded brown color.
Regardless of the finish, the OM-21 exhibits Martin’s renowned attention to fine details and appointments. The binding along the body and neck is executed with precision in multi-ply material that complements the overall finish. The fretboard inlays are in a simple dot pattern but crafted from genuine abalone. Other appointments like the open-gear tuners, bone nut and saddle, and rosette around the soundhole exhibit Martin’s commitment to quality components that enhance the guitar’s beauty.
Overall, the OM-21 is an acoustic guitar that makes a visual statement on par with its exceptional musical voice. The tones of the solid woods are accentuated by finishes that allow their natural grain patterns and characteristics to shine. Whether on stage or in the studio, the OM-21 is sure to draw admiring looks for its refined style and craftsmanship. Players seeking more than just impressive sound will appreciate the OM-21 for being a stunning acoustic guitar visually as well.
Martin OM-21 vs Other Models
The Martin OM-21 stands out when compared to other similar acoustic guitar models, both from Martin and other brands. Let’s take a look at how it stacks up.
Compared to the Martin OM-28
The OM-28 is another premium Orchestra Model from Martin, but there are some notable differences from the OM-21:
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The OM-28 features upgraded solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, while the OM-21 has standard solid East Indian rosewood. This gives the OM-28 a bit more bass response and low-end warmth.
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The OM-28 typically has more decorative appointments, like higher-grade binding and inlay work. From a looks perspective, the OM-28 is a bit more ornate.
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The OM-28 commands a higher price tag, normally around $2,500-3,000 compared to $2,000-2,500 for the OM-21. For players who don’t need all the cosmetic frills, the OM-21 provides excellent value.
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The tonewoods and construction are otherwise very similar between the two models. Both offer that balanced, warm OM tone.
Compared to the Martin 000-18
The 000-18 is an excellent auditorium-sized acoustic, but differs from the OM-21 in a few ways:
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The 000-18 has a smaller body size with a narrower waist than the OM. This gives it enhanced midrange response at the expense of some bass frequencies.
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With mahogany back and sides, the 000-18 has a more intimate, focused sound compared to the expansive rosewood tone of the OM-21.
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The 000-18 is a more affordable option, costing around $1,500-2,000. For players who like a more compact feel and midrange character, it’s a great choice.
How the OM-21 Stacks Up to Other Brands
The OM-21 can compete with other top-tier orchestra model acoustics from Taylor, Guild, Larrivee, and more. It stands out with its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail that Martin is known for. While other brands produce great OM guitars, the Martin remains an iconic choice.
Pricing and Value
The Martin OM-21 currently has a street price ranging from around $2,000 to $2,500 at most major retailers. This positions it solidly in the premium price tier for acoustic guitars. However, the OM-21 represents an excellent value considering the quality of materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and tonal excellence it provides.
When examining pricing, it’s important to note that the OM-21 comes with a high-quality hardshell case included. Cases can cost $200+ on their own, so this adds to the overall value proposition. The guitar also comes with Martin’s limited lifetime warranty, which covers manufacturer defects. Knowing your investment is protected for life brings peace of mind.
For players seeking more affordable payment options, some retailers offer financing plans for the OM-21. Terms typically range from 12-36 months depending on the provider. This allows you to pay off the instrument over time, often with no interest.
The used market is another area to explore for finding an OM-21 at a lower price point. Models built in the 1990s and 2000s can sometimes be found in the $1,200 – $1,800 range in good playable condition. Going the used route requires more research and examination, but can be rewarding for buyers with a discerning eye and a passion for vintage instruments.
No matter how you acquire it, the OM-21 represents an instrument built to last a lifetime – both in terms of tone and longevity. The value is there for players who recognize and appreciate top-tier craftsmanship paired with versatile, organic acoustic sound.
Who Should Consider the Martin OM-21?
With its premium appointments and versatile sound, the Martin OM-21 is an excellent fit for intermediate to advanced players looking to invest in a high-quality acoustic guitar.
The OM-21’s rich low end and crisp highs make it a great choice for fingerstyle guitarists who want warmth and complexity to complement intricate playing. Singer-songwriters will appreciate the OM-21’s balanced tone, which provides the perfect accompaniment for vocals without overpowering them.
The OM-21 is also an outstanding bluegrass flatpicking guitar, with the projection and articulation to cut through a full band mix. The scalloped bracing gives it the volume and responsiveness needed for fast lead lines and solos.
While the OM-21 certainly has the features and craftsmanship desired by professionals, it remains accessible and comfortable enough for enthusiastic amateurs. The slim neck profile and low action facilitate intricate fretting while still accommodating strummers.
The OM-21’s premium solid wood construction does require proper humidity control and care, so it may not be the best choice for complete beginners. However, intermediate players who are serious about advancing their skills will find this guitar able to grow along with them over years of playing.
With its versatile sound, playability, and stunning looks, the Martin OM-21 is highly recommended for anyone looking to make a lifelong investment in a great acoustic guitar. Its premium appointments and quality materials make it a suitable partner for a wide range of musical genres and playing styles.
Pros and Cons
Summary of strengths
- Rich, balanced tone that projects with clarity
- Extremely playable neck and low action setup right out of the box
- Constructed with premium solid wood tonewoods like Sitka Spruce and East Indian Rosewood
- Unique scalloped X-bracing pattern improves resonance and dynamics
- Stunning visual appeal with fine details and binding
- Comes with a high-quality hardshell case included
- Covered by Martin’s lifetime warranty for original owners
Potential downsides to consider
- Higher price tag compared to other acoustics in this class
- The OM body shape may feel small for some larger players
- Requires diligent humidity control and care, like any solid wood acoustic
- Not ideal for heavy strumming or aggressive playing styles
- The warm, bass-heavy tone may not suit some musical genres
- Slightly less headroom and projection compared to a Dreadnought size
Conclusion
The Martin OM-21 is an exceptional premium acoustic guitar that excels in nearly every category. Its tonewood combination of solid Sitka spruce and East Indian rosewood produces a rich, balanced sound with excellent projection, warmth, and complexity. The OM-21’s playability is also top-notch thanks to its comfortable neck profile, low action, and overall ease of playing. Visually, the guitar is a stunner with meticulous appointments and available finishes like Natural, Sunburst, and Ambertone.
When it comes to value, the Martin OM-21 delivers in spades. Considering its construction from premium solid tonewoods, immaculate fit and finish, and inclusion of a hardshell case, the OM-21 is competitively priced. Martin’s lifetime warranty provides additional peace of mind. For intermediate to advanced players seeking the complete package in an acoustic guitar, the OM-21 is easy to recommend. Its versatility works well for many musical styles, from fingerstyle to folk and Americana. The OM-21 continues Martin’s legacy of exceptional guitars with vintage appeal and modern reliability.