It's been said that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. Luckily the C.F. Martin Guitar Company is not a dog, so even though the organization is over 175 years old they're still capable of producing forward-thinking, modern axes like the Performing Artist Series GPCPA1. This acoustic-electric sports an all-new, shred-friendly neck profile for Martin as well as a new body style and some contemporary aesthetic touches.

What's most impressive about these new guitars, however, is their integration of Fishman Aura digital imaging electronics. The Aura system features nine digitally-generated snapshots of the guitar as it would sound through nine different microphones, all without using actual microphones in the guitar—thus mitigating issues with feedback. Speaking of which, the GPCPA1's electronic also boasts an intelligent, adaptive anti-feedback system.

Martin Rep David Evans walks us through the guitar's distinguishing features and electronics interface.