What type of wood is used for the top of the Sigma GMC-STE-BKB?

The guitar features a solid Sitka spruce top. This wood is chosen for its ability to produce a bright, clear tone with excellent projection.

What body shape does this guitar have?

The GMC-STE-BKB uses the Grand OM-14 fret body shape. It includes a cutaway design to facilitate easier access to the upper frets.

What electronics are installed in the Sigma GMC-STE-BKB?

It is equipped with a Fishman Isys+ preamp system. This allows for precise sound sculpting and easy connection to amplifiers or recording equipment.

What is the finish of this model?

The guitar features a striking Blackburst finish. This gives the instrument a modern, 'understated but commanding' visual aesthetic.

What wood is used for the back and sides?

The back and sides are constructed from mahogany. Mahogany is known for adding warmth and resonance to the guitar's overall tone.

Is this guitar suitable for studio recording?

Yes, the manufacturer states it is designed for both stage and studio use. The Fishman Isys+ preamp helps players control their sound in a recording environment.

How does the sound character change with the OM body size?

The Grand OM body size provides a balance of full lows and sparkling highs. It offers more versatility and sonic power than smaller travel-sized guitars.

What is the typical price for the Sigma GMC-STE-BKB?

The typical price range for this model is approximately £379. This makes it a competitive mid-range option for serious players.

Does this guitar have a cutaway?

Yes, it features a cutaway as part of the Grand OM-14 fret body design. This allows the player to reach higher notes on the fretboard more comfortably.

How does it compare to the Martin LX1E?

The GMC-STE-BKB is a full-sized Grand OM guitar, whereas the Martin LX1E is a 3/4 sized 'Little Martin'. The Sigma will generally offer more acoustic volume and a fuller low-end response.

Is the Sigma GMC-STE-BKB a good choice for beginners?

While it is a professional-grade instrument, its versatility and price point make it accessible for dedicated beginners. However, it is primarily marketed as a performance-ready tool for the stage and studio.

What makes the Sitka spruce top special?

Being a solid piece of wood rather than laminate, the solid Sitka spruce top allows for better vibration and resonance. This typically results in a sound that improves as the wood ages.

Gear article

Sigma GMC-STE-BKB Electro Acoustic

The Sigma GMC-STE-BKB is a versatile electro-acoustic guitar featuring a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides. Built to the Grand OM-14 fret cutaway body specification, it is designed for stage and studio performance with integrated Fishman electronics and a distinctive Blackburst finish.

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Overview

The Sigma GMC-STE-BKB is an electro-acoustic guitar that balances traditional tonewood selection with modern aesthetics and playability. As part of Sigma's range, it draws upon a heritage of building instruments that offer professional features at a mid-market price point. The model is distinguished by its 'Blackburst' finish, which provides a striking visual alternative to natural wood finishes while maintaining the tonal benefits of its solid spruce construction.

Construction and Materials

The core of the GMC-STE-BKB's sound lies in its solid Sitka spruce top, a material favoured for its high strength-to-weight ratio and broad dynamic range. This is paired with mahogany back and sides, which add structural elegance and contribute to the instrument's overall tonal balance. The body is sculpted into the Grand OM-14 fret shape, incorporating a cutaway to allow easier access to the higher frets, making it suitable for lead techniques as well as rhythmic strumming.

Sound and Character

Due to the combination of a solid spruce top and a Grand OM body size, the GMC-STE-BKB delivers a versatile sonic profile characterized by full-sounding lows and sparkling highs. The mahogany components provide a warm mid-range, ensuring that chords resonate with depth and richness. This versatility allows the guitar to handle a wide variety of playing styles, from delicate fingerpicking to aggressive flatpicking, with significant sonic power.

Electronics and Performance

For live performance and studio applications, the GMC-STE-BKB is equipped with a Fishman Isys+ preamp system. This onboard electronics package allows for precise sound sculpting, giving the player control over their amplified tone. The system is designed to provide a natural representation of the guitar's acoustic voice when plugged into a PA system or recording interface, making it a reliable tool for working musicians.

Market Comparison

Positioned at a typical price point of £379, the Sigma GMC-STE-BKB competes in a diverse market of electro-acoustic instruments. Compared to smaller-bodied alternatives like the Yamaha APXT2 or Martin LX1E, the GMC-STE-BKB offers a larger Grand OM body for more acoustic volume and projection. While it may not reach the premium status of high-end models like the Taylor PS14ce, it provides a solid-top alternative to budget-friendly options, sitting alongside instruments like the Fender Newporter Player and the Guild F-2512E in terms of performance readiness.

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Frequently asked questions

What type of wood is used for the top of the Sigma GMC-STE-BKB?: The guitar features a solid Sitka spruce top. This wood is chosen for its ability to produce a bright, clear tone with excellent projection.
What body shape does this guitar have?: The GMC-STE-BKB uses the Grand OM-14 fret body shape. It includes a cutaway design to facilitate easier access to the upper frets.
What electronics are installed in the Sigma GMC-STE-BKB?: It is equipped with a Fishman Isys+ preamp system. This allows for precise sound sculpting and easy connection to amplifiers or recording equipment.
What is the finish of this model?: The guitar features a striking Blackburst finish. This gives the instrument a modern, 'understated but commanding' visual aesthetic.
What wood is used for the back and sides?: The back and sides are constructed from mahogany. Mahogany is known for adding warmth and resonance to the guitar's overall tone.
Is this guitar suitable for studio recording?: Yes, the manufacturer states it is designed for both stage and studio use. The Fishman Isys+ preamp helps players control their sound in a recording environment.
How does the sound character change with the OM body size?: The Grand OM body size provides a balance of full lows and sparkling highs. It offers more versatility and sonic power than smaller travel-sized guitars.
What is the typical price for the Sigma GMC-STE-BKB?: The typical price range for this model is approximately £379. This makes it a competitive mid-range option for serious players.
Does this guitar have a cutaway?: Yes, it features a cutaway as part of the Grand OM-14 fret body design. This allows the player to reach higher notes on the fretboard more comfortably.
How does it compare to the Martin LX1E?: The GMC-STE-BKB is a full-sized Grand OM guitar, whereas the Martin LX1E is a 3/4 sized 'Little Martin'. The Sigma will generally offer more acoustic volume and a fuller low-end response.
Is the Sigma GMC-STE-BKB a good choice for beginners?: While it is a professional-grade instrument, its versatility and price point make it accessible for dedicated beginners. However, it is primarily marketed as a performance-ready tool for the stage and studio.
What makes the Sitka spruce top special?: Being a solid piece of wood rather than laminate, the solid Sitka spruce top allows for better vibration and resonance. This typically results in a sound that improves as the wood ages.