Martin Refreshes the 16 Series for 2026
Martin has just introduced a refreshed 16 Series, and this one feels like a meaningful expansion of what the series can be.
The new lineup brings together all-solid-wood construction, a wider range of body shapes, bold new finishes, and L.R. Baggs Element electronics. Instead of sticking strictly to the traditional Martin formula, the refreshed 16 Series gives players some genuinely different options while keeping the focus on great acoustic tone and American-made construction.
More Shapes, More Choices
One of the biggest stories is the variety.
The refreshed lineup explores everything from the compact sloped-shoulder 00L to slope-shoulder Dreadnoughts and big Jumbo designs, giving players very different voices and playing experiences within the same family.
There are also some great new finishes. Black Smoke, Cream and 1935 Burst give the series a noticeably different personality without losing the unmistakable Martin identity.
And underneath the new looks, these are serious instruments. Solid spruce tops are paired with solid mahogany or East Indian rosewood back and sides depending on the model, with scalloped X-bracing helping bring out resonance, sustain and projection. L.R. Baggs Element electronics also make the new models ready to plug in when needed.
Three New 16 Series Martins Are Here Now
We already have three of the new models at Detroit Guitar, and each represents a very different side of the lineup.
Martin 00L-16E Black Smoke
The 00L-16E combines a compact sloped-shoulder body with a solid spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides. The result is a focused, woody voice with plenty of responsiveness and surprising projection for its size.
Its 24.9" scale and smaller body make it an especially comfortable option for fingerstyle, songwriting or anyone looking for something more intimate than a traditional Dreadnought.
Shop the Martin 00L-16E Black Smoke
Martin DSS-16E 1935 Burst
The DSS-16E takes things in another direction with a slope-shoulder Dreadnought body, solid spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides.
One of the most interesting details is its 24.9" short scale, giving this larger-bodied Martin a slightly more relaxed feel under the fingers. Forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing helps bring out the low end and resonance, while the 1935 Burst gives it a great vintage-inspired look.
Shop the Martin DSS-16E 1935 Burst
Martin J-16E Cream
At the other end of the spectrum is the J-16E Cream.
The Jumbo body is built for volume and projection, pairing a solid spruce top with solid East Indian rosewood back and sides for deep lows, rich overtones and clear highs. It's a big, powerful acoustic that makes a lot of sense for strumming and rhythm playing.
And the Cream gloss top gives it a look you definitely don't see on a Martin every day.
Don't See the One You Want?
These three are available now at Detroit Guitar, but they're only part of the new 16 Series.
If another body shape, finish or configuration from the refreshed lineup is the one you're after, Detroit Guitar can special order it for you.
Give us a call, send us a message or stop into the store and we'll help you find the right one.
The new Martin 16 Series is here — and there's a lot more to explore.
