At the 2011 Winter NAMM Show, Martin Guitar launched three new PA4 Gloss-Top acoustic / electric guitar models, along with a limited-edition run of 25 GPC-42E Amazon Rosewood acoustic / electric guitars. Martin Guitars' PA4 (Performing Artist) lineup now includes the DCPA4, GPCPA4, and OMCPA4.

Like their rosewood PA1, PA2, and PA3 predecessors, the new DCPA4, GPCPA4 and OMCPA4 are constructed with solid tonewoods. The back and sides are matched from African sapele, similar in appearance and tone to mahogany, and bookmatched Sitka spruce soundboards use Martin's Hybrid "A-Frame" scalloped bracing.

Each of the new models features the slim, more parallel taper at the 12th fret, allowing for a more comfortable playing width up the neck, while the bridge spacing is also modified to 2 3/16" -- splitting the difference between Martin's two traditional spacings. These new PA4 models also feature the new, simplified Fishman F1 Analog electronics system.

The GPC-42E Amazon Rosewood limited edition guitar features solid back and sides crafted of bookmatched Amazon rosewood, which is a close relative of Brazilian rosewood both in looks and sound. According to Martin, its tone is complex, resonant, and powerful -- a perfect match for the scallop-braced Adirondack red spruce top -- prized for its big, open bass voice.

This limited-edition instrument is the first Performing Artist guitar to include a dovetailed neck to body joint. Colorful heart abalone pearl adorns the top in the elegant 42 style, and the ebony fingerboard is bound in ivoroid and inlaid with Martin's Golden Era / Style 45 snowflake pattern. The alternative flower pot inlay graces the headstock, and the guitar comes equipped with Fishman F1 Aura, featuring Aura Acoustic Imaging technology in an easy-to-use onboard preamp system.

Each guitar includes a brown hardshell case and is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty (for all "Performing Artist Series" models purchased from authorized Martin dealers in the U.S. and Canada). For more information, please visit performingartistseries.com or martinguitar.com.