Martin DSS-16E 16-Series Slope Shoulder Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar (Black Smoke)

The Martin DSS-16E brings a slope-shoulder dreadnought body to the updated 16 Series with a striking Black Smoke gloss finish on its spruce top. Solid mahogany back and sides deliver punchy midrange and focused low-end response that cuts through any mix. This is the first time Martin has paired the slope-shoulder design with a short 24.9" scale length, creating a relaxed playing feel that suits the body's naturally warm, woody character. Forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing enhances resonance and bass response, while L.R. Baggs Element electronics provide stage-ready amplification straight out of the case.

The 14-fret neck features a modified low oval profile in select hardwood with satin finish, topped with an ebony fingerboard carrying 1955 Style 18 inlays and a 1 3/4" nut width. Nickel open-gear tuning machines and an ebony bridge with bone saddle handle tuning stability and string transfer. The grained ivoroid pickguard adds visual contrast against the Black Smoke top. Strung from the factory with Martin Era Legacy Edition strings developed specifically for the refreshed 16 Series, the guitar ships with a softshell case included.

Features

• Slope-shoulder dreadnought body with 14-fret neck join and 20 frets total
• Short 24.9" scale length for relaxed playing feel and enhanced warmth
• Gloss Black Smoke spruce top with solid satin mahogany back and sides
• Forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing for improved resonance and bass response
• Ebony fingerboard and bridge with 1955 Style 18 inlay pattern
• L.R. Baggs Element electronics with onboard preamp system
• Grained ivoroid pickguard and nickel open-gear tuning machines
• Factory-strung with Martin Era Legacy Edition acoustic guitar strings