Product: Sigma DR9
Price Paid: US $208
Submitted
12/18/2002
at
01:49pm
by
sharky
Email: sharkydude50<at>hotmail dot com
Features
:
9
1976 Japanese manufacture using mostly Matin parts. Modeled after the classic D-28. 22 frets on a mahogony neck/rosewood fingerboard. 2 piece spruce top. Mahogony sides and 3 piece back. Gloss finish w/black Martin pickguard
Sound
:
10
Has the full, deep low end that Martins are known for. The D-28 size dreadnaught body cavity has a big, powerful tone. Great for harmonics and drumming (ala Michael Hedges)
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
The set up from the factory was a little too high. As a first guitar it did a number on my fingers. Other than that the fit and finish were first rate.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I've beat on this, my first axe, for some 25 years now. I replaced the plactic nut and saddle with bone, and changed out the cheap Japanese tuners for Grovers, but other than that have done nothing but strummed away-HARD. I play hard (and use .013's), so there is a lot of tension on the neck. Never has it needed adjusting! This guitar is now delegated to the beach, but still sings out LOUD.
Customer Support
:
2
I understand that Sigma does not have a web site. I've never needed any, but they need to get into the new millenium!!!! I think that Martin has gone down hill the past few years.
Overall Rating
:
10
This old Sigma has more than paid for itself over the last 25 years. After all it's been thru I still can't give her up. I now own 5 other axes (2 elect., 3 acoustic), which are all wonderful in their own way. It's just so hard to give up on your first love. I'm not sure the newer ones are anywhere near as well made as this one, so I probably wouldn't buy a new one. I plan on passing it down to one of my kids if they're interested. Otherwise, I'll probably get buried with my Siggy.
