MS Signature Model
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The Martin Simpson Signature model is a medium size guitar with a strong bass and a strong treble, excellent note separation and good sustain. Introduced as a development of my Model 1 Sicilian, its versatility has made it the main concert guitar of many guitarists over the years.
History
After discussions with Martin Simpson, in 2002 I built an experimental Model 1 Sicilian with a modified bracing system.
It was clearly different enough to be considered a model in its own right so Martin and I agreed to introduce it as the Martin Simpson Signature model.
The Martin Simpson Signature model has the same overall length and width as the Model 1, but a wider upper bout and a larger lower bout and is a little deeper, giving it a greater body capacity. It has a 650mm (25.6″) scale, an asymmetric bridge with split saddle, ebony binding with birdsfoot, and striking red and white purfling.
Martin Simpson with his 2024 40th Anniversary MS model
Martin took delivery of the first MS signature model in September 2003. He now plays a 2024 40th Anniversary version, also German spruce and Brazilian rosewood.
Mark Knopfler collecting his MS Signature guitar
Darrell Scott playing ‘River Take Me’ on his MS Signature guitar
The long scale suits tuning down, so the tunings Martin uses that require low D and low C work well. It’s a very stable guitar and like all my models, holds its tuning well over long periods of time.
The MS Signature model is now also available with a Douglas Fir soundboard.
Here Tom Fletcher plays a Douglas Fir and Brazilian rosewood version.
Specifications
| Soundboard: | European spruce or Douglas Fir |
| Back and sides: | Brazilian rosewood, African or Malaysian Blackwood |
| Neck: | Wengé |
| Fingerboard: | Ebony |
| Bridge: | Ebony with two piece bone saddle |
| Binding: | Ebony with red and white purfling |
| Trim: | Birdsfoot edging with red and white purfling |
| Body Width: | 16.3″ (415 mm) |
| Body Length: | 495mm (19 1/2”) |
| Max body depth: | 105mm (4 1/4”) |
| F/b width at nut: | 1 3/4″ (45 mm) |
| Scale: | 650mm = 25.6” |
| Tuners: | Gold Gotoh 510 with black buttons, others optional |
| Pickup (optional): | Highlander, internal or external battery |