Martin - DSS-16E 1935 Burst Acoustic Electric
The DSS-16E 1935 Burst pairs a short 24.9" scale with a slope-shoulder Dreadnought body for warm, punchy tone—featuring a gloss 1935 Burst top, forward-shifted bracing, and bold 16 Series style that’s built to stand out.
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The Nantel Verdict
The Nantel Verdict
24.9" short scale reduces finger reach while preserving dreadnought projection; slope-shoulder body geometry refines bass response; forward-shifted X-bracing emphasizes midrange definition; gloss 1935 Burst aesthetic echoes vintage Martin character without compromising modern playability.
The 16 Series demands proper setup and humidity control—Martin's quality is unforgiving of neglect. Pair with quality strap locks and a hard case. Electric preamp requires occasional battery changes and basic troubleshooting familiarity.
A serious Martin at serious money, justified by heritage engineering and tonal sophistication. The short scale and slope shoulders solve real ergonomic problems while delivering the warm, defined voice that justifies the DSS lineage's reputation.
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DSS-16E 1935 Burst
The DSS-16E 1935 Burst 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 1935 Burst 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. Forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing enhances resonance and bass response, while 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 1935 Burst 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 | 1935 Burst |
| 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 | Faux Tortoise |
| 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 Side 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 oldest and most respected acoustic guitar manufacturers in the world, with a heritage dating back to 1833. The company has built its reputation on meticulous craftsmanship, tonal excellence, and innovation in guitar design, becoming the standard-bearer for quality instruments across multiple genres.
Known for their iconic dreadnought body shape and forward-thinking approach to modern designs, Martin guitars are favored by professionals and enthusiasts alike. The brand's commitment to sustainable lutherie practices and attention to wood selection ensures each instrument delivers the resonant, articulate tone Martin players have relied on for generations.
