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Martin OM-15 vs. 000-15


bullpencoach

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Posted

I think I am definitely going to buy one of these in the near future, but I wanted to get some opinions. From what I can tell, the only difference between these two models is in the neck width.

 

OM: 1 3/4 (nut) 2 1/4 (12th fret)

000: 1 11/16 (nut) 2 1/8 (12th fret)

 

And of course, the guitar I play most often has measurements exactly in between the two :D Are there any other differences or reasons why any of you prefer one over the other? So far I've only gotten to play the OM-15, though I've played other 000 models.

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Posted

Yep, you're right. Both are 14 fret guitars but the fretboard widths are different. Should be the same otherwise. Wider is better for fingerpicking, and those that simply find the extra room to their liking.

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Posted

Yes, the 000-15 strings are slightly closer together, 1/16" at the nut and 1/8" at the bridge.

 

Then there is the "look" of the two models.

 

Although I usually prefer the look of the teardrop pickguard of OM models, the 000-15 pickguard looks a lot "cooler" than the 0M-15. It is just a lot curvier.

 

Other than these two things, the guitars are the same, it appears.

 

If you have thick fingers, then the OM is better since you won't touch adjacent strings as easily as with the 000.

 

These are entry level guitars, the kind you learn on, and if you pursue guitar you will move on to more expensive and distinctly different models.

 

For example the usual difference between an OM and a 000 is the scale, 25.4" vs. 24.9". A comparison here would weigh upon the "attack" of fingers versus a pick, with the longer length scale giving more volume due to the higher tension in the strings.

 

A finger picker would favor the longer scale to get the same volume as a picker, but the picker would favor the slightly more forgiving bend of the strings to his pick, and the slightly easier ability to bend notes rather than rely heavily on hammer on/pull off finesse.

 

If you don't have stubby fingers, I would recommend the 000-15, since its scale is the same as the OM-15 and it has a cooler looking pickguard.

 

There you have it. Hope this helps you.

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Posted

Ah - totally didn't notice the pickguard. I think I prefer the 000 pickguard as well, though it's obviously isn't a striking difference to me. I think I might go with the OM, since I do fingerpick, and downgrading in width from the guitar I use now probably isn't the best idea for that...

 

Thanks guys! You always get the best responses around here. :)

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Posted
Originally posted by guitarcapo

scale length and nut width are about it....I favor the 000 ffor what it's worth. God favors the 000 too...um..I mean Eric Clapton.

:D :D :D :D

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Posted

Another option for me is the 000M. I really enjoyed the Clapton model, and cosmetically, I prefer the 000M to the 000-15. I find that it looks great in photos but a little plain in person. Just a taste thing, I guess.

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Posted

The difference in neck width doesn't look like much on paper, but get them in your hands for at least 15 minutes each and you will know which you prefer.

 

I prefer the narrower neck. It may just be that that is what I'm used to, but I considered some OM style guitars, and I wasn't sure I would care for the wider neck once I got used to it.

 

The 000-15 I played sounded incredible. I assume the OM-15 would sound about the same, but I can't confirm it. I am currently anxiously awaiting UPS delivery of MY 000-15. Purchased from a very fine fellow over on the UMGF with a WICKED bad case of GAS. I was happy to be of help, actually it was mutually beneficial as we BOTH got new guitars we had been pining for.:D

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Posted

 

Originally posted by bullpencoach

Another option for me is the 000M. I really enjoyed the Clapton model, and cosmetically, I prefer the 000M to the 000-15. I find that it looks great in photos but a little plain in person. Just a taste thing, I guess.

 

 

You might try polishing the 15. Here's a link to pix of mine after polishing.

http://www.orsino.lfhost.com/photos-Martin.html

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Posted

Thanks Orsino,

 

I'm thinking of doing Grover Sta Tite butterbeans, but if I decide not to change the tuners I might just do Ebony buttons. I will probably polish it out at some point, but I think I am going to live with my new 000-15 for a while before I change a thing.

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Posted

 

Originally posted by guitarcapo

scale length and nut width are about it....I favor the 000 ffor what it's worth. God favors the 000 too...um..I mean Eric Clapton.

You mean God and Eric Clapton aren't the same? *has mental breakdown* I took about a two hour nap earlier today and had a dream that I was Eric Clapton. and I was playing the Royal Albert Hall.

 

~ EH:D

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Posted

 

Originally posted by Mattface

Thanks Orsino,


I'm thinking of doing Grover Sta Tite butterbeans, but if I decide not to change the tuners I might just do Ebony buttons. I will probably polish it out at some point, but I think I am going to live with my new 000-15 for a while before I change a thing.

 

 

Matt,

I have the set of ebony buttons that I used on my Martin. When I sold it I put back the original buttons. I'll give them to you if you want them. Email me your address if you're interested.

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