1980s Sigma (Japan) DR-41 Dreadnought Guitar

Overview: Martin's Sigma brand was intended to fulfill the need for a good-quality guitar at import pricing and most of the Sigma line ape Martin models and can get pretty close in terms of feel and sound at times, though many of the lower-end models can be disappointing. This DR-41 was made in Japan and looks like a proper D-41, save that all of the "pearl" inlay on this instrument is faux (except for what's in the replacement pickguard) and the rosewood back and sides are ply instead of solid.

That said, it does sound and handle an awful lot like a cross between a D-18 and a D-28, though the mids are more pushed-forward. The build quality is good (did you see the volute at the back of the headstock?) and this particular example is in really good shape, too, save a repaired hairline crack on the top. I even like the luau-inspired replacement pickguard choice and the pearl-dot pins! The owner was definitely in on the theme...

Repairs included: Jacobi gave this a level/dress of the frets and a setup. It's playing spot-on and ready to serve.

• Weight: 4 lbs 11 oz
• Scale length: 25 3/8"
• Nut width: 1 11/16"
• Neck shape: medium C/oval
• Board radius: 12"
• Depth at first fret: 0.87"
• Depth at seventh fret: 0.95"
• Body width: 15 5/8"
• Body depth: 4 7/8"
• Top wood: solid spruce
• Back & sides wood: rosewood
• Bracing type: x
• Bridge: rosewood (painted)
• Fretboard: rosewood
• Neck wood: mahogany
• Action height at 12th fret: 3/32” bass 1/16” treble (fast, spot-on)
• String gauges: 54w-12 lights
• Truss rod: adjustable
• Neck relief: straight
• Fret style: medium/lower

Condition notes: The top has a repaired (cleated/filled) hairline crack near the center seam and below the bridge. The pickguard is a newer add-on (likely Vietnamese-made and it's pearl inlaid into celluloid). The bridge pins are replacements. There's light scratching here and there throughout but overall it looks nice and clean. I was surprised to find no "ghosting" in the clearcoat at all -- something that is fairly common near heels and on backs of Sigmas from this time.

It comes with: It's got a decent case of some sort, as I recall.

Consignor tag: NRUS