Murray, if you want to squeeze the last ounce out of your instrument, I'd suggest the following additions:

1. Fossilized ivory nut 2. Fossilized ivory bridge saddle 3. Fossilized ivory bridge pins a. Bronze or sterling silver or gold bridge pins b. Brass bridge pins 4. Bronze, sterling silver or gold tuning machine knobs

The fossilized ivory additions will really bring out the traditional sound of the instrument.

Metal bridge pins will add sustain.

"Heavy" tuning machine knobs add sustain. Put your hand on the headstock when you pluck a string or chord. Feel the vibration? Have someone "clamp" the headstock and play a chord. Now have them let go and play the same chord. There should be a remarkable difference in sound.

None of these additions are without some peril. Remember, many guitarists never touch their instruments except to wipe them off and change strings and are happy with them. They learn the guitars strenghts and weaknesses and plan accordingly.

The nut/bridge saddle/pins combination may take the guitar out of your hands for awhile and so I'd suggest doing one step at a time. Add the pins first, then bridge saddle, then the nut. This way, you can make decisions based on the sound of each step.

Last, luthiers can "shave" and "trim" your guitar. This is a delicate procedure and I don't recommend it without serious study of the instrument in question. It works for "heavy lumber" guitars (think old Yamaha FG150's) but I don't think I'd do it to a new instrument unless it absolutely demanded it. Your Martin should be fine. They have a nice habit of picking the right.

Hope this helps.