Maton Performer, natural satin, made in Australia 2003. This is a friendly little thing. Maton have been making high quality guitars in Melbourne since the 1940s, and they've done so well you can hardly walk into a pub in Australia without hearing one. The 808 shape is somewhat similar to a Martin 000, so it's notably smaller than a dreadnought. That makes it easy to get your arms around and comfy to sit with, and also means you get a more balanced, midrange-rich tone. Apparently Queensland maple was a new timber option on Maton acoustics in 2003, so this was one of the first to benefit from the hardwearing timber's expansive bass response and understated honey colouring. The AP5 pickup system works nicely too, you get a good representation of the acoustic sound delivered out the front with cheer and consistency. These generally don't last too long on the shop wall, so be your own mate and get a date with this top rate 808, don't wait.

Model: Maton EGB808CL
Made:  Melbourne Australia, Nov 2003 (serial 443)
Finish: natural satin
Body: solid bunya top, Queensland maple back and sides, 808 size
Neck: Queensland maple, rosewood board, 12" radius, 25.5" scale
Weight: 2.010kg
Mods: none
Pickup: Maton AP5 pickup + preamp system
Case: Ashton hard case

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some dimples on the end. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples and rub wear on the back only. The back has scuffs on the top shoulder, elbow area and bottom corner and some surface scratches in the middle of the body; nothing nasty. The sides have minor rub wear and dimples on the bottom horn and elbow area. The front has rub wear in the elbow area and around the bridge and some play wear on the guard and shoulders.  Overall: very good condition (7.5/10)

Playing condition notes: action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good. All electronics tested and working properly. The frets are in reasonable shape with no major buzz issues and slight pitting,7/10 for fret life left. Setup with 12/53 Moonshiners strings.