What is the main purpose of the Martin 18A0166?

Its main purpose is to eliminate unwanted acoustic feedback when playing a guitar through an amplifier or PA system at high volumes. It achieves this by sealing the soundhole to prevent resonance loops.

Which guitar models is this cover designed for?

It is specifically designed for Martin 00 and 000 body styles. These guitars typically feature a 3.875-inch soundhole.

Will this fit a standard Dreadnought guitar?

No, standard Dreadnoughts usually have a 4-inch soundhole, whereas this model is sized at 3.875 inches. A larger cover would be required for a standard Dreadnought.

Is the material safe for nitrocellulose finishes?

Yes, the 18A0166 is made from nitrocellulose-safe material. This ensures that it will not cause chemical reactions or damage the delicate finish around the soundhole of a Martin guitar.

How does this affect the unplugged sound of the guitar?

It significantly reduces the acoustic volume and changes the tone of the guitar when not plugged in. It is intended for use during amplified performances rather than for quiet practice.

How is the Feedback Buster installed?

It is easily installed by manually pressing the flexible cover into the soundhole until it sits flush and secure. No tools or adhesives are required for the installation.

Can I use this with a soundhole-mounted pickup?

Generally, no, as the cover occupies the same space as a soundhole pickup. It is best suited for guitars with under-saddle transducers or internal microphone systems.

What is the typical price for this accessory?

The Martin 18A0166 typically retails for approximately £17.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and region.

Does the cover add significant weight to the guitar?

No, the device is designed to be lightweight. It does not significantly alter the physical balance or playability of the instrument.

Is this a permanent modification?

No, it is a non-permanent accessory. It can be inserted or removed in seconds without leaving any marks or needing any alterations to the woodwork.

Will this fit other brands of guitars?

It may fit other brands provided they have a soundhole diameter of exactly 3.875 inches. However, it is specifically tailored for Martin 00/000 specifications.

How does this compare to electronic feedback suppressors?

While electronic suppressors use notch filters to cut specific frequencies, this physical cover prevents the feedback from starting by blocking the airflow and resonance at the source.

Gear article

Martin 18A0166 Feedback Buster

The Martin 18A0166 Feedback Buster is a specialized acoustic soundhole cover designed to eliminate unwanted feedback during amplified live performances. Custom-sized for Martin 00 and 000 body shapes, it allows guitarists to perform at higher stage volumes without compromising sonic clarity.

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Overview

The Martin 18A0166 Feedback Buster is a utilitarian accessory designed for gigging guitarists who use acoustic-electric instruments. Its primary function is to seal the soundhole of the guitar, preventing the internal resonance of the body from interacting with external stage monitors and PA systems, which typically results in high-frequency squealing or low-end hum known as feedback.

Design and Fit

Specifically engineered for Martin's smaller-bodied instruments, this model fits 3.875-inch soundholes, which are standard for many 00 and 000 models. The unit is constructed from a flexible but durable material that is rated as nitrocellulose-safe. This is a critical feature for Martin owners, as many vintage and high-end modern Martin guitars use nitrocellulose finishes that can be chemically damaged by inferior rubber or plastic accessories. The lightweight design ensures that the balance of the instrument is not significantly altered during use.

Performance and Sound Control

While the Feedback Buster naturally reduces the unplugged volume of the guitar by dampening the top's vibrations and sealing the sound chamber, its purpose is to enhance the amplified sound. By suppressing the potential for feedback, it allows the player to increase the gain and volume on their amplifier or mixing desk. This results in a clearer, more controlled signal that can cut through a full band mix more effectively than an open-holed acoustic.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation is straightforward and requires no tools or permanent modifications to the guitar. The cover is pressed into the soundhole where it sits snugly against the edges. Because it is designed to be easily removable, it can be inserted for high-volume sets and removed for intimate, unplugged performances. The material is designed for longevity and does not require special maintenance beyond occasional cleaning to remove dust or sweat.

Target Audience

This accessory is primarily suited for professional and semi-professional musicians who perform in diverse environments. It is particularly valuable for those playing in loud venues, alongside drummers, or on stages with high-volume floor monitors. While it is a specific fit for 00 and 000 guitars, it serves a similar role to universal covers but with a tailored fit for these specific Martin dimensions.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the main purpose of the Martin 18A0166?: Its main purpose is to eliminate unwanted acoustic feedback when playing a guitar through an amplifier or PA system at high volumes. It achieves this by sealing the soundhole to prevent resonance loops.
Which guitar models is this cover designed for?: It is specifically designed for Martin 00 and 000 body styles. These guitars typically feature a 3.875-inch soundhole.
Will this fit a standard Dreadnought guitar?: No, standard Dreadnoughts usually have a 4-inch soundhole, whereas this model is sized at 3.875 inches. A larger cover would be required for a standard Dreadnought.
Is the material safe for nitrocellulose finishes?: Yes, the 18A0166 is made from nitrocellulose-safe material. This ensures that it will not cause chemical reactions or damage the delicate finish around the soundhole of a Martin guitar.
How does this affect the unplugged sound of the guitar?: It significantly reduces the acoustic volume and changes the tone of the guitar when not plugged in. It is intended for use during amplified performances rather than for quiet practice.
How is the Feedback Buster installed?: It is easily installed by manually pressing the flexible cover into the soundhole until it sits flush and secure. No tools or adhesives are required for the installation.
Can I use this with a soundhole-mounted pickup?: Generally, no, as the cover occupies the same space as a soundhole pickup. It is best suited for guitars with under-saddle transducers or internal microphone systems.
What is the typical price for this accessory?: The Martin 18A0166 typically retails for approximately £17.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and region.
Does the cover add significant weight to the guitar?: No, the device is designed to be lightweight. It does not significantly alter the physical balance or playability of the instrument.
Is this a permanent modification?: No, it is a non-permanent accessory. It can be inserted or removed in seconds without leaving any marks or needing any alterations to the woodwork.
Will this fit other brands of guitars?: It may fit other brands provided they have a soundhole diameter of exactly 3.875 inches. However, it is specifically tailored for Martin 00/000 specifications.
How does this compare to electronic feedback suppressors?: While electronic suppressors use notch filters to cut specific frequencies, this physical cover prevents the feedback from starting by blocking the airflow and resonance at the source.