Martin Blackwell, 2022
Spruce / CSA Rosewood
Overview
Martin Blackwell’s work needs no introduction. Over the past decade his guitars have become some of the most in-demand modern concert instruments in the world, appearing on major stages, winning major competitions, and gaining a well-deserved reputation for their dark, creamy voice and enormous sustain.
This 2022 example represents Martin’s newest evolution of his top design. The lower bout features a balsa double-top core, while the upper bout transitions to Nomex, a hybrid approach developed partly for efficiency and partly for aesthetic considerations. It results in that unmistakable Blackwell immediacy and warmth, with impressive projection and a long, blooming sustain that feels almost endless.
The guitar features an old, beautifully figured set of Brazilian rosewood for the back and sides — something increasingly rare on Blackwell instruments. Paired with a spruce top, it produces a wide soundscape rich with overtones while preserving exceptional clarity. If you play with a naturally brighter touch, this guitar balances it beautifully. If you play with a darker sound, this guitar becomes mysterious and expressive without ever becoming muddy.
A raised fingerboard, elegant armrest, red purfling lines, and Blackwell’s signature rosette make this a visually striking instrument. It is also equipped with a rare set of Graf tuners featuring engraved Phoenix artwork, installed by Blackwell at the request of the previous owner. They function flawlessly and add a unique artistic flair, though they can be swapped if a future owner prefers a simpler aesthetic.
Overall, this is a phenomenal example of Blackwell’s current work — refined, musical, expressive, warm, overtone-rich, and powerful.
Key Features
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Year: 2022
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Top: Spruce with hybrid balsa double-top (lower bout) and Nomex (upper bout)
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Back & Sides: Highly figured Brazilian rosewood
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Fingerboard: Raised ebony fingerboard
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Bridge: Matte finish, beautifully executed tie block with gold and red detailing
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Rosette: Blackwell’s signature design with red wedge segments
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Binding/Purfling: Two subtle red purfling lines along the body
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Armrest: Smooth ebony-style ergonomic armrest
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Scale Length: 650mm
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Nut Width: 52mm
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Tuners: Rare Graf tuners with engraved Phoenix artwork (covered-gear design)
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Additional: 20th-fret C note extension
Sound & Playability
This Blackwell has what his recent instruments are known for:
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A dark, creamy core
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Rich overtones without sacrificing clarity
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Immediate response with enormous sustain
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A wide, luxurious soundscape
Played lightly, it feels like the softest cushion—warm, enveloping, almost comforting. Push harder and the guitar brightens, opening into a more Spanish-inflected response with punch and character. The low E string in particular has that iconic “bulbous” Blackwell bloom that is so recognizable.
The neck shape is from Martin’s 2021–2023 period: not thin, not thick, very round, and extremely comfortable. Action is low and smooth with room to go lower if desired.
This is an instrument that rewards subtlety but also invites power. It is expressive at all dynamic levels and beautifully balanced across the strings.
Condition
Excellent condition throughout. No cracks, repairs, or structural issues. The Brazilian set is visually subtle at first glance, but shows exceptional figure and color in the right light. Tuners function perfectly. Very light, normal handling marks. Fully concert-ready.
Final Thoughts
Blackwell guitars are increasingly difficult to acquire, especially those made with Brazilian rosewood. They are among the most expressive modern classical guitars available today, with a loyal following among top professionals and competition winners.
This 2022 is an outstanding example, combining Martin’s latest structural ideas with one of the loveliest tonal palettes you’ll hear in a modern concert guitar.
If you're interested in this guitar or a similar one, please contact us at evan@guitarcollection.com