Martin Lx1 Little Martin

Pros: well made; solid spruce top; warm sound; micarta fingerboard on some earlier models
Cons: no real bass; made mostly of plywood

The LX1 is one of several "Little Martins" offered by Martin Guitar Company as a travel or beginner guitar. Martin's own Backpacker Guitar has been around for years, but it just isn't that good, and Taylor's "Baby" and "Big Baby" are quite popular, so ...

Pros: Quality, price, utility. Martin got a lotta mileage outta what they had to work with
Cons: Less than perfect bass response

If you are a guitar enthusiast, you knew it was coming. I mean, how long was Martin going to rely upon the sound-challenged, broomstick-style of the Martin Backpacker as its flagship in the travel or student guitar market? When was the ...

Pros: Excellent sound, nice action.Perfect for kids or those w/small hands.
Cons: Nothing yet!  

In searching for a guitar for my 10 year old for her b-day, I knew I wanted something that was reasonably priced, but also of quality.  I also wanted something that would be easier for her to play so she wouldn't be discouraged by a large neck or high action.I finally narrowed it down to the Baby Taylor and the Little Martin.  After extensive online reviewing and asking questions of my friends who have guitar expertise, and then calling dealers of both guitars, I settled on the Martin, and am happy I did.  My daughter can play some basic chords, the size is perfect, the sound is great.  The solid top was slightly more expensive ($20), but the difference in sound was markedly improved with the solid top.