Martin guitars with mahogany back and sides have a dry, woody tone with strong fundamental notes that project with high velocity, for a direct, uncomplicated voice. It has satisfying bass response, popping mids and clear, ringing trebles. It also provides ample warmth, but not nearly as much as rosewood, and with fewer overtones, helping to promote those fundamental notes to the forefront of a classic steel-string acoustic guitar sound.  Mahogany is excellent for recording, clearly coming through during ensemble tracks with many other instruments.

As a soundboard, mahogany creates a unique voice both musical and mellow, adding a subtle glow behind each note, with increased fundamental sustain that makes it ideal for fingerstyle and playing with a slide. The peppery grain of mahogany is less dramatic than other tonewoods but remains a favorite for lovers of the natural beauty of wood.