Well many different things are going on. For bracing, Martin offers standard, GE or Authentic scalloped bracing. Standard is.., well the basic scalloped bracing. GE or Golden Era is a stronger scalloping, meaning a lighter bracing. Authentic bracing was only available on the Authentic series, but has recently been available as an option through the Custom Shop. This bracing is the most scalloped and gives the most responsive tops. For tops you’ve got standard and torrefied, and for the size of the braces 1/4" is obviously less than the usual 5/16" braces so gives to a more responsive guitar. Martin has its history and its marketing. With 3 different braces and 2 different brace sizes, as well as thin finish options, etc it allows Martin to have many different models giving slightly different tones. The absolute best would be the thinnest braces, the most scalloping, the thinnest tops and the thinnest finish. i.e., a vintage guitar.
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