Martin Romas MR-4000 Acoustic Guitar

Note: Martin Romas is an independent budget brand and is not related to C.F. Martin & Co. The MR-4000 is an entry-level, 40-inch cutaway acoustic guitar in a tobacco sunburst (TSB) finish, aimed at first-time players on a strict budget.

Specifications

• Size: 40" (slightly smaller than a full dreadnought)
• Body: cutaway, laminated tropical hardwood top, back and sides
• Neck: okoume
• Fingerboard: composite (HPL), 20 frets
• Scale length: approx. 25"
• Nut width: 42 mm
• Strings: steel
• Finish: matte tobacco sunburst

What it offers

The 40" body is a little smaller than full-size acoustics, which suits teenagers and smaller adults, and the cutaway gives access to higher frets. The matte finish looks good and resists fingerprints.

Limitations to know about

• Fully laminated construction gives a modest, thinner tone than solid-top guitars.
• Composite fingerboard and basic tuners are cost-saving choices.
• Action may be high out of the box — a set-up and lighter strings make a big difference.

Verdict

Suitable as a very low-cost starter or spare guitar. If the budget allows, a guitar like the Yamaha F310 or the solid-top Yamaha FG800 will be more comfortable and sound noticeably better.