The Norman Blake Signature Models combine Martin's 14-fret 000 body style and 24.9" scale length with a 12-fret (to the body) neck. This unique combination allows the top braces to be shifted "forward" to cross just below the soundhole and places the bridge lower on the top for greater soundboard vibration. A 00 size soundhole (1/8" smaller than 000) and 1/4" width scalloped braces enhance both bass response and dynamic range.
The 000-28 Norman Blake Signature Models are handcrafted from solid tonewoods. The top and top braces are fashioned from Adirondack red spruce, highly prized for brilliant timbre. The neck is carved from genuine mahogany. The 000-28 utilizes standard East Indian rosewood for the back, sides and headplate: .
It features the traditional Martin Style 28 body appointments, including a Golden Era Style 28 rosette of black/white wood and ivoroid, fine-pattern herringbone around the top, black/white back purfling around the back, ivoroid top and back binding, a traditional zigzag back strip and an old-style tortoise colored 000 pickguard, elongated and slightly squared in the vintage style, per Norman's request.
:The satin finished neck is a substantial 1 13/16" width at the nut. Carved with a pointed heel but without the traditional diamond volute, it has a special "Norman Blake" modified-V contour for player comfort. The square, tapered headstock with square slots is equipped with Waverly-Sloane tuners featuring engraved bronze mounting plates and ivoroid buttons. The polished headplate displays the familiar old style "C. F. Martin & Co." decal, while the back of the headstock bears the antique "C.F. Martin & Co." pressure stamp.
This guitar has been fitted with a quality L.R. Baggs M1 passive soundhole magnetic pickup that features outstanding body sensitivity with great warmth and presence. Its dual-coil design employs L.R. Baggs' exclusive TriAxial Dynamic Technology to produce clear, rich tones that are resistant to feedback, noise and hum, with string and body sound all in one.
