What brand manufactures the 18A0117 Luxe Contour Pick?

The pick is manufactured by Martin, a company traditionally known for their high-quality acoustic guitars and performance accessories.

What is the typical price for a Martin Luxe Contour Pick?

The typical retail price for this specific plectrum is approximately £26.00.

What makes the shape of this pick unique?

It features an asymmetrical design paired with unique precision-made contour bevels, differing from standard teardrop or equilateral picks.

How does the pick handle moisture and sweat?

The pick is made from a specially chosen polymer that is incredibly water-resistant, specifically to prevent slipping due to sweaty hands during gigs.

What kind of finish does the Martin Luxe Contour Pick have?

It features a silky-smooth satin finish designed to provide a superior grip for the player.

How does this pick affect 'pick noise'?

The design and material are intended to ensure a smoother performance with significantly less 'nasty' pick noise compared to standard plectrums.

Is this pick suitable for fast playing?

Yes, the precision bevels and polymer design are engineered for exceptionally fast and smooth string transitions.

How does the Luxe Contour compare to Fender Celluloid picks?

While Fender Celluloid picks are affordable industry standards, the Martin Luxe is a premium boutique pick offering specialized bevels and water-resistant materials.

Is the Martin Luxe Contour Pick similar to a Dunlop Big Stubby?

Both are thicker, high-performance picks, but the Martin Luxe uses a unique satin-finished polymer and asymmetrical shape rather than the contoured Lexan used in the Stubby.

What is the primary benefit of the asymmetrical design?

The asymmetrical shape and contour bevels allow players to put their own stamp on a performance by offering unique angles of attack on the strings.

Does the pick help with grip during live performances?

Yes, the combination of the satin finish and the specific polymer material is designed to prevent the pick from being dropped mid-performance.

Can this pick be used with magnetic soundhole pickups like the L.R. Baggs M80?

Yes, as a standard plectrum, it is compatible with any acoustic guitar setup, including those using magnetic soundhole pickups.

Gear article

Martin 18A0117 Luxe Contour Pick

The Martin 18A0117 Luxe Contour Pick is a premium plectrum designed by C.F. Martin & Co. to enhance acoustic performance through advanced material science and ergonomic shaping. It features an asymmetrical design with precision-machined bevels and a moisture-resistant polymer construction to reduce string noise and improve grip.

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Overview and Design

The Martin Luxe Contour Pick represents a high-end approach to the standard guitar plectrum, leveraging Martin's extensive expertise in acoustic instrument manufacturing. Unlike standard symmetrical picks, the Luxe Contour features an asymmetrical shape specifically engineered to facilitate smoother string transitions. The pick is defined by its precision-made contour bevels, which are designed to allow the player to exert more control over their individual playing style and attack.

Material and Grip

A primary feature of the 18A0117 is its material composition. It is manufactured from a specially chosen polymer that is inherently water-resistant, making it resistant to the effects of perspiration during long performances. To further aid security during play, the pick is finished with a silky-smooth satin texture. This combination of material and finish is intended to provide a superior grip, reducing the likelihood of the pick slipping or being dropped mid-performance.

Performance and Sound Character

In terms of sonic performance, the Luxe Contour Pick is engineered to minimise unwanted mechanical noise, often referred to as 'pick click' or 'chirp.' The precision bevels allow the pick to glide across the strings with less resistance than standard celluloid or nylon alternatives. This results in a cleaner tone that focuses on the natural resonance of the instrument rather than the impact of the plectrum itself. The manufacturer describes the performance as exceptionally fast, catering to players who require precision.

Market Position and Comparisons

Priced at approximately £26, the Martin Luxe Contour Pick sits in the boutique plectrum market, contrasting significantly with budget-friendly options such as the Gear4Music 0.81mm packs or standard Fender Celluloid Medley packs. While mass-market picks like the Dunlop Tortex Jazz III or Big Stubby series focus on durability and specific shapes at a lower price point, the Martin Luxe focuses on material technology and refined ergonomics. It is a specialised tool for players who find standard plectrums lacking in grip or tonal purity.

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Frequently asked questions

What brand manufactures the 18A0117 Luxe Contour Pick?: The pick is manufactured by Martin, a company traditionally known for their high-quality acoustic guitars and performance accessories.
What is the typical price for a Martin Luxe Contour Pick?: The typical retail price for this specific plectrum is approximately £26.00.
What makes the shape of this pick unique?: It features an asymmetrical design paired with unique precision-made contour bevels, differing from standard teardrop or equilateral picks.
How does the pick handle moisture and sweat?: The pick is made from a specially chosen polymer that is incredibly water-resistant, specifically to prevent slipping due to sweaty hands during gigs.
What kind of finish does the Martin Luxe Contour Pick have?: It features a silky-smooth satin finish designed to provide a superior grip for the player.
How does this pick affect 'pick noise'?: The design and material are intended to ensure a smoother performance with significantly less 'nasty' pick noise compared to standard plectrums.
Is this pick suitable for fast playing?: Yes, the precision bevels and polymer design are engineered for exceptionally fast and smooth string transitions.
How does the Luxe Contour compare to Fender Celluloid picks?: While Fender Celluloid picks are affordable industry standards, the Martin Luxe is a premium boutique pick offering specialized bevels and water-resistant materials.
Is the Martin Luxe Contour Pick similar to a Dunlop Big Stubby?: Both are thicker, high-performance picks, but the Martin Luxe uses a unique satin-finished polymer and asymmetrical shape rather than the contoured Lexan used in the Stubby.
What is the primary benefit of the asymmetrical design?: The asymmetrical shape and contour bevels allow players to put their own stamp on a performance by offering unique angles of attack on the strings.
Does the pick help with grip during live performances?: Yes, the combination of the satin finish and the specific polymer material is designed to prevent the pick from being dropped mid-performance.
Can this pick be used with magnetic soundhole pickups like the L.R. Baggs M80?: Yes, as a standard plectrum, it is compatible with any acoustic guitar setup, including those using magnetic soundhole pickups.