What is the body shape of the Sigma DM12E?

The Sigma DM12E features a traditional dreadnought body shape. This design is known for providing maximum volume and a powerful bass response.

What wood is used for the top of the guitar?

The guitar uses a solid Sitka spruce top. This material is chosen for its ability to articulate notes with crisp, crystal-clear style.

Does the DM12E have a built-in pickup?

Yes, it is an electro-acoustic model equipped with a Sigma preamp. The preamp is installed on the upper bout for easy control of amplified sound.

What materials are used for the back and sides?

The back and sides are made of mahogany. This tonewood provides an undercurrent of warmth and resonance to balance the bright spruce top.

What kind of finish does this model have?

The Sigma DM12E features a stunning natural finish. It is complemented by a black pickguard and a minimalistic soundhole rosette.

What type of fretboard inlays are used?

The guitar features elegant white dot fret inlays. These provide a classic, understated look across the fingerboard.

Is the Sigma DM12E suitable for live performance?

Yes, its dreadnought shape and integrated electronics make it ideal for the stage. The preamp allows for sculpted amplification to ensure the sound reaches the whole room.

How many strings does this model have?

The Sigma DM12E is a 12-string guitar. This configuration provides a richer, more orchestral sound compared to standard 6-string models.

What is the typical price range for this guitar?

In the UK market, the Sigma DM12E typically retails for approximately £309. This places it as a competitive option for a solid-top 12-string instrument.

Where are the preamp controls located?

The controls are located on the upper bout of the guitar's body. This allows the player to make quick adjustments to their tone while playing.

What is the sonic character of this 12-string?

It is described as a 'powerhouse' with far-reaching sound. It combines the crispness of spruce with the full-bodied resonance of mahogany.

Can I use standard 12-string sets like Ernie Ball on this guitar?

Yes, while the DM12E comes from Sigma, it is compatible with standard 12-string sets. Users often pair such guitars with quality strings from brands like D'Addario or Ernie Ball for optimal performance.

Gear article

Sigma DM12E 12-String Electro Acoustic

The Sigma DM12E is a 12-string electro-acoustic guitar featuring a classic dreadnought body shape and a solid Sitka spruce top. Designed for high-volume projection and harmonic richness, it incorporates mahogany back and sides alongside a proprietary Sigma preamp system for live performance.

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Overview

The Sigma DM12E is a full-sized 12-string acoustic guitar that adheres to traditional dreadnought proportions. It is marketed as a 'powerhouse' instrument, capable of producing significant acoustic volume due to its large body cavity. The aesthetic is understated and professional, featuring a natural finish, a black pickguard, and white dot fretboard inlays. As an 'E' model, it is factory-fitted with an electronic pickup and preamp system located on the upper bout for stage and studio use.

Construction and Materials

The guitar utilizes a solid Sitka spruce top, a choice favoured by luthiers for its wide dynamic range and ability to handle the high tension of twelve strings while maintaining clarity. The back and sides are constructed from mahogany, which provides a contrasting warmth to the spruce's brightness. This combination ensures that the inherent 'jangle' of a 12-string guitar is balanced by a resonant, full-bodied low-mid response.

Electronics and Hardware

For amplification, the DM12E features a Sigma-branded preamp. This unit is mounted on the side of the guitar for easy access during performance. The preamp includes controls for tone sculpting, allowing the player to adjust the output to suit different acoustic environments or mixing requirements. The instrument also features a minimalist soundhole rosette and standard tuning machines designed to maintain the stability of the doubled strings.

Sound Character

The sound of the DM12E is characterised by a blend of crisp articulation and deep resonance. The 12-string configuration produces a 'chorused' effect naturally, while the dreadnought shape ensures the output is loud and far-reaching. The mahogany components add a foundational warmth that prevents the higher-octave strings from sounding overly thin or brittle, resulting in a balanced, 'magical' tonal profile.

Suitability and Comparisons

This instrument is primarily suited for folk, rock, and pop players who require a wall of sound for rhythmic accompaniment. While it sits in a mid-range price bracket around £309, it offers professional features like a solid top and integrated electronics. Compared to smaller 12-string models, the DM12E provides more bass response and acoustic projection, though its large size may be more physically demanding for smaller players.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body shape of the Sigma DM12E?: The Sigma DM12E features a traditional dreadnought body shape. This design is known for providing maximum volume and a powerful bass response.
What wood is used for the top of the guitar?: The guitar uses a solid Sitka spruce top. This material is chosen for its ability to articulate notes with crisp, crystal-clear style.
Does the DM12E have a built-in pickup?: Yes, it is an electro-acoustic model equipped with a Sigma preamp. The preamp is installed on the upper bout for easy control of amplified sound.
What materials are used for the back and sides?: The back and sides are made of mahogany. This tonewood provides an undercurrent of warmth and resonance to balance the bright spruce top.
What kind of finish does this model have?: The Sigma DM12E features a stunning natural finish. It is complemented by a black pickguard and a minimalistic soundhole rosette.
What type of fretboard inlays are used?: The guitar features elegant white dot fret inlays. These provide a classic, understated look across the fingerboard.
Is the Sigma DM12E suitable for live performance?: Yes, its dreadnought shape and integrated electronics make it ideal for the stage. The preamp allows for sculpted amplification to ensure the sound reaches the whole room.
How many strings does this model have?: The Sigma DM12E is a 12-string guitar. This configuration provides a richer, more orchestral sound compared to standard 6-string models.
What is the typical price range for this guitar?: In the UK market, the Sigma DM12E typically retails for approximately £309. This places it as a competitive option for a solid-top 12-string instrument.
Where are the preamp controls located?: The controls are located on the upper bout of the guitar's body. This allows the player to make quick adjustments to their tone while playing.
What is the sonic character of this 12-string?: It is described as a 'powerhouse' with far-reaching sound. It combines the crispness of spruce with the full-bodied resonance of mahogany.
Can I use standard 12-string sets like Ernie Ball on this guitar?: Yes, while the DM12E comes from Sigma, it is compatible with standard 12-string sets. Users often pair such guitars with quality strings from brands like D'Addario or Ernie Ball for optimal performance.