From the Factory | January 7, 2026

Your Guide to Martin Guitar Electronics: What They Are and How They Work

A player-friendly look at the pickup systems inside Martin guitars—and how to choose the one that fits your sound.

If you’ve ever picked up two Martins—one with a pickup system and one without—and wondered which one fits your playing style, you’re not alone. We’ve covered the big-picture differences between acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars in another blog post, but this time we’re zooming in on the electronics themselves: what they do, why players use them, and how to choose the system that best supports your sound. 

Whether you're exploring your first acoustic-electric or thinking about upgrading your current guitar, this guide will walk you through the systems Martin offers today*—and help you feel confident about what each one brings to the table. 

A Quick Refresher: Acoustic vs. Acoustic-Electric 

At their core, acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars start from the same foundation: the resonant tonewoods and top-notch craftsmanship that give a Martin its signature voice. Adding electronics doesn’t change that—it simply allows you to amplify and shape your sound when needed. 

Here are a few helpful things to remember: 

• Electronics don’t turn an acoustic guitar into an electric guitar—they simply amplify your acoustic tone. 
• Acoustic-electric models sound the same unplugged as their non-electronic counterparts. 
• Electronics add volume control, tone shaping, and tools that help with feedback management. 
• Traditional acoustics can still be mic’d onstage, but electronics offer flexibility when playing live, recording, or performing with other musicians. 

Before we dig into the specific electronics Martin offers, here’s a quick breakdown from someone who works with these systems every day. In the Pro Tips video below, Manufacturing Manager and longtime guitarist Dave Doll walks through the core differences between acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars—and why electronics have become such a useful tool for today’s players. 

It’s a great starting point if you’re still weighing your options. 

Martin’s Electronics Options: A Player-Friendly Breakdown 

Martin offers a range of electronics systems to support different styles, settings, and tonal goals. Here’s a clear look at what you’ll find across our current lineup. 

Martin E1 — Our Most Popular Pickup System 

Found on all X Series, Junior Series, 16 Series, 000-15E, D-15E, and most Road Series models. 

The Martin E1 gives you everything you need to plug in with confidence: 

• Volume control 
• Tone control (for shaping bass/treble response) 
• Phase switch (to help reduce feedback and enhance low end) 
• Built-in chromatic tuner with silent tuning 

It’s simple, reliable, and designed to deliver natural-sounding amplification for everyday playing, live performance, or recording. 

Fishman® Aura VT Blend™ — Studio-Quality Sound Anywhere 

Featured on select Modern Deluxe models, the CEO-11, and optional on several E variants, the Aura VT Blend is ideal if you want your amplified tone to sound like a beautifully mic’d acoustic guitar. 

Key features include: 

• Blend control that moves from undersaddle pickup to 100% Aura imaging 
• Warm, expressive, studio-style tone 
• Clean, intuitive volume, tone, and blend controls 

This system shines when you want a professional, nuanced sound without needing microphones or extra equipment. 

Fishman MX — Road-Tested, Stage-Ready 

The Fishman MX appears in select signature models, including the DX Johnny Cash. It’s known for reliability and simplicity—everything a player needs without unnecessary complexity. 

Fishman MX includes: 

• Volume control 
• Tone control (shaping between a flat response and a “scooped” EQ with boosted bass and treble) 

A rock-solid choice for gigging musicians who want consistent, ready-to-go live tone. 

Fishman Sonitone™ — Simple, Subtle, and Great-Sounding 

Used on models like the 000JR-10E Shawn Mendes, the Sonitone places volume and tone controls discreetly inside the soundhole, preserving the guitar’s traditional look while offering easy access to amplification. 

This setup is ideal for singer-songwriters, beginners, and anyone who wants a light-touch system that still sounds great plugged in. 

Fishman Gold+Plus® Natural — A Martin Staple 

Found in models like the OMJM John Mayer, this system has long been a go-to for its transparent, reliable tone. It’s highly compatible with amps, PA systems, and recording setups, making it a versatile choice for many players. 

L.R. Baggs® Anthem™ — Mic-Like Presence for the Stage 

Featured in the GPCE Inception™ Maple, GPE Inception, M-6 and M-7 Johnny Marr, and available as an option in several Standard Series E models. 

Why players choose the Anthem: 

• Mic/pickup blend for incredibly natural tone 
• Adjustable mic level 
• Phase inversion for feedback control 
• A realistic, expressive sound ideal for professional performance 

If you want your amplified sound to mirror your acoustic voice as closely as possible, the Anthem is a top-tier option. 

L.R. Baggs Element™ — Dynamic, Natural, and Expressive 

Available in select Road Series SC and Retro Plus models, the Element uses a flexible film sensor to capture soundboard movement rather than relying primarily on string pressure. This design: 

• Minimizes the “quack” common with undersaddle pickups 
• Preserves expressive dynamics 
• Has minimal impact on the guitar’s natural acoustic tone 
• Offers durable, reliable amplified performance 

Great for players who want an organic, true-to-instrument sound. 

Mi-Si Simple Jack — Battery-Free Power for Ukes 

Found in the TKE Uke, this clever system charges in just 60 seconds and provides up to 16 hours of playtime—no batteries required. It keeps your amplified ukulele tone clean, natural, and incredibly convenient. 

Considering Adding Electronics Later? 

If you start with an acoustic-only Martin, you can absolutely add electronics down the road. 

If you're thinking about upgrading, your nearest Martin Authorized Service Center can talk you through the options and install a system that suits your guitar and playing style. 

How to Choose the Right System for You 

Here’s a quick cheat sheet if you’re still deciding: 

• For simplicity: Martin E1, Fishman MX, Fishman Sonitone 
• For recording or mic-like realism: Fishman Aura VT Blend, L.R. Baggs Anthem 
• For expressive, natural dynamics: L.R. Baggs Element 
• For ukulele players: Mi-Si Simple Jack 
• For long-term versatility: Any system with tone-shaping or blend controls 

And remember: an acoustic-electric sounds the same unplugged as its non-electronic counterpart. You’re not changing the guitar’s acoustic character—you’re simply giving yourself more ways to use it. 

Want More Details? Explore Our Complete Electronics Guide 

For a deeper dive—including diagrams, user manuals, and compatibility information—visit our helpful Electronics Guide. 

And if you’d like to add electronics to your current Martin or want help selecting the perfect setup, your local Martin Authorized Dealer or Service Center is always a great resource. You can also reach out to us online anytime. 

Until next time, happy playing!

*Electronics options and model availability may change over time. Be sure to review an instrument’s specifications for the most current information before purchasing.