Martin - DSS-16E Cherry Cola 16 Series Acoustic Electric
The DSS-16E Cherry Cola pairs a short 24.9" scale with a slope-shoulder Dreadnought body for warm, punchy tone—featuring a gloss Cherry Cola top, forward-shifted bracing, and bold 16 Series style that’s built to stand out.
Couldn't load pickup availability
We’re celebrating the launch of our new website. Get $20 off when you spend $1,000 or more. Discount is automatically applied at checkout.
The Nantel Verdict
The Nantel Verdict
24.9" scale dreadnought reduces tension and string pull for easier fretting; slope-shoulder body geometry emphasizes midrange clarity; forward-shifted X-bracing pattern optimizes resonance; Cherry Cola finish is aesthetic statement matching sonic character—warm amber tones rather than bright spruce.
Requires strap locks given the premium finish quality. The short scale suits players with smaller hands or those preferring reduced finger tension; standard acoustic cables and amplification work seamlessly with the integrated electronics. No exotic maintenance demands beyond typical Martin care.
The DSS-16E balances visual distinctiveness with genuine tonal refinement. Its shortened scale and thoughtful bracing deliver articulate warmth without trendy affectation, justifying investment for players valuing both playability and sonic substance.
Have a question about this instrument?
Our advisors know it well and can help you find the right one.
Review by the Nantel Musique team
Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.
DSS-16E Cherry Cola
The DSS-16E Cherry Cola introduces a bold new voice to the refreshed 16 Series—pairing standout style with warm, vintage-inspired tone. Its gloss spruce top in a striking Cherry Cola finish is matched with satin solid mahogany back and sides for punchy midrange, strong treble response, and a focused low end that sits well in any mix. The slope-shoulder Dreadnought body shape delivers a woody, intimate tone—now paired for the first time with a short 24.9" scale length for a relaxed feel that complements its natural warmth. A grained ivoroid pickguard adds a distinctive visual touch, while forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing enhances resonance and bass response. L.R. Baggs® Element™ electronics make it ready for the stage. With feel, character, and presence in equal measure, it’s built to command the room.
Highlights
- Sloped Shoulder D 14-Fret body size
- Mahogany back and sides
- Spruce top with Cherry Cola top color
- Modified Low Oval neck with High-Performance Taper
- 1 3/4'' fingerboard width at nut
- Softshell case
- Recommended Strings: Authentic Acoustic Lifespan® 2.0 Guitar Strings Phosphor Bronze - Light
Top |
|
| Top Material | Spruce |
| Finish Top | Gloss |
| Top Color | Cherry Cola |
| Top Inlay Material | Black Stripe |
| Top Detail | None |
| Binding | Antique White |
| Bridge Material | Ebony |
| Bridge Style | Modern Straightline - Drop in Saddle |
| Bridge String Spacing | 2 5/32" |
| Bridge Pin Material | Black Polymer |
| Bridge Pin Dots | Abalone |
| Pickguard | Grained Ivoroid |
| Pickguard Inlay | None |
| Rosette | Custom Multi-Stripe |
| Saddle | TUSQ® |
| Saddle Radius | 16" |
Body |
|
| Body Size | Sloped Shoulder D 14-Fret |
| Construction | Simple Dovetail Neck Joint |
| Back Material | Mahogany |
| Side Material | Mahogany |
| Back and Sides Finish | Satin |
| Back and Sides Color | Dark Mahogany |
| Back Detail | None |
| Side Detail | None |
| Back Purfling/Strip | None |
| Back Inlay Material | Black Stripe |
| Side Inlay Material | None |
| Bracing Pattern | Forward Shifted X Brace |
| Brace Shape | Scalloped |
| Brace Material | Spruce |
| Brace Size | 5/16" |
| Endpiece | None |
| Endpiece Inlay | None |
Neck |
|
| Neck Shape | Modified Low Oval |
| Neck Taper | High-Performance Taper |
| Neck Material | Select Hardwood |
| Neck Color | Dark Mahogany |
| Finish Neck | Satin |
| Scale Length | 24.9" |
| Number of Frets Total | 20 |
| Neck Joins Body At | 14th Fret |
| Heelcap | Antique White |
| Fingerboard Material | Ebony |
| Fingerboard Width at 12th Fret | 2 1/8'' |
| Fingerboard Width at Nut | 1 3/4'' |
| Fingerboard Inlay Style | 1955 Style 18 |
| Fingerboard Inlay Material | Mother of Pearl |
| Fingerboard Binding Material | None |
| Side Dots | White |
Headstock |
|
| Headstock Shape | Solid with Square Taper |
| Headplate Material | East Indian Rosewood |
| Headplate Logo Style | Script Old Style Overlay |
| Headplate Binding Material | None |
| Tuning Machines | Nickel Open Gear |
| Knob | Butterbean |
| Nut Material | Bone |
Misc |
|
| Case | Softshell |
| Label | None |
| Electronics | Yes |
| Electronics Options | L.R. Baggs® Element™ |
| Left Handed Availability | true |
| Pleked | true |
Martin is one of the most respected acoustic guitar manufacturers in North America, with a heritage spanning nearly two centuries. Founded in 1833, the company established many of the standards that define modern acoustic guitar construction, earning a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and tonal excellence.
Martin guitars are known for their distinctive voicing, premium wood selection, and innovative designs that balance tradition with contemporary player needs. The brand's numbering system (such as the 16 Series) reflects specific body shapes and construction approaches refined through generations of lutherie expertise.
