Q: I’ve been looking for an acoustic guitar for fingerstyle playing (Martin in particular) and I’m a little confused about the different body styles. According to Martin, the “000″ Auditorium body is sometimes known as the OM Orchestra Model. What’s the difference between them?

A: The Martin Auditorium body designated 000 shares the same 15″ body as the OM (Orchestra Model). The main difference is neck width and scale length — the OM has a longer scale, wider neck for fingerstyle playing. Players who like a bright treble response and a smaller, more comfortable body prefer the 000.

The Martin Orchestra body, (OM) is considered by many to be the ultimate fingerstyle guitar. Models of this style from the 1930s sell for tens of thousands of dollars. OMs are renowned for their power, excellent balance between treble and bass, and superb note definition.