The d28 is my favorite the deeper natural sound of a real guitar. The hd is still a good sounding guitar brighter but in my opinion if i am spending the money I want the d28
Watching the this on 31st December 2021! Still great content after all these years and great improvement on production! Also great playing even way before!
The Herringbone binding was not cut to lower the price point, it was cut because it was a German made product and was not available during WWII. Also, the stopping of scalloping of the braces correspond to heavier gauge strings more than cost cutting.
I really can't tell any difference at all. Now being a long time guitar player I am a big fan of bracing. There is lots of tension pulling up on that bridge. You all know that and do you know absolutely the hump on the top of a lot of older acoustic guitars. The old 12 strings are prone to that nasty hump on the top. I have re set a couple necks and all sorts of things to fit this problem and prevent it. The main thing I did was to buy a D-28 last week before I had no choice in bracing. I will never notice the small things like the new vs old bindings. The old sealed tuners the keep dirt out or open gear tuners, no big thing, but more secure brace. I will notice when the top pulls up. Great video sir and thank you.
Thanks for putting this together, Chris. Both guitars sound great, but in this recording the D-28 wins my vote. It sounds cleaner, tighter and more balanced than the HD while still having a full-bodied sound. The HD-28 does sounds a little fuller here than the D-28 and has better bass response, but in Chris's hands the D-28 sounded smoother overall. I tried both the HD and the D in a music store about a week ago. In the store I liked the sound of the HD more. It sounded super rich and full in the music store. I guess the moral of the story is you need to get out and play a few until one of them calls your name.
I have a 2002 HD 28. IMHO I think it sounds and plays the best. Taylor seems a little easier sometimes depending on the model but tone is not as bold. Also, every time I take my HD 28 Martin out of the case the aroma is incredible. I called Martin and they said that they were all a little different and that was definitely a bonus.They are both fine instruments.
Like both, especially the looks of the HD28. Prefer the D28 sound a bit better. More mellow to my ears. Having said that, I'd be very happy with either one ! :-)
@@jberkley17 I've had two D35 guitars and had problems with both. The frets lifted and the white trim came unstuck. Just unlucky I guess, but they are great sounding guitars.
I think the difference, due to the bracing, lies in the shimmer, or resonance that I heard in the HD -28 verses the standard D-28, which seems to have a darker quality to it. It boils down to your preference. After all, your guitar is the one that sweetly sings back to you when you play it. :)
I was extremely lucky to get a 175th anniversary issue HDV-28 custom with abalone snowflake markers. They will have to pry it from my cold dead hands! Enjoyed learning the differences, Thanks
IMHO: Both tonally are similar. HD is brighter/louder. D is softer, slightly muted. As a teen I fell in love with the Herringbone design. I own a HD28 and have to say the hype is real, the reputation well earned, and, the guitar sounds like angels just showed-up...
I don't play, but I own my late dad's D-28 Herringbone made in 1944. If I ever sell it, where do I begin? And yes, I've seen the many comments about the value of this instrument. Thank you very much and I enjoyed your video.
I'm a Mahogany guy and had D-18's and Collings D1A guitars in the past. I just bought an HD28 and really love it. Different sound then the Mahogany back guitars. The Collings D1A will always be my favorite. Total cannon of a guitar. Wish I still had it.
Thank you for a great review! I lived just outside of S.A. for six years. I was down town on the Riverwalk several times a year. I never knew y’all existed. I don’t know how. We would spend so much time at Sam Ash and Guitar Center I would have loved to check out your store. Now we live in Montana. Sigh...
Do they Both have the same fresh 2.0 strings? I've been playing both of these for hours. The d28 has dirty phosphor bronze and hd new 2.0's. Now I have to hear the d28 with new Authentic 2.0's before I can make the decision. sometimes the HD sound to bright, But may be perfect with Dirty Strings. I let you know how it goes after i bring it home.
ZZP Zing Pheonix what did you find when you changed the strings? I’ve got an HD28 and I’ve changed from stock Martin strings to a couple of other brands and haven’t found my keeper set yet.
Great playing, Chris! I dunno, call me crazy, but the tone of the D28 seems a bit tighter, more focused. Seems like the HD28 is awash in overtones, which some people undoubtedly love, but I'm not crazy about.
Chad Thorne you are spot on with the tone difference. The HD-28’s scalloped bracing gives more overtones while the tapered bracing of the D-28 yields a tighter response. Martin just redesigned the D-28 and we should receive ours any day so watch for that review. -Chris McKee
I have to say that my concerns about the 2017 D-28 were completely unfounded. I actually love the action of the open-gear tuners, and the tone of this instrument is breathtaking. Clearly the change to forward-shifted bracing was well warranted; it yields a very vintage tone. The fretboard is just a tiny bit wider, great for my not-slender fingers.
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice?
My friend has a twenty year old Martin D-41. I play fiddle in the band with him and it's the best sounding guitar Iv ever heard and Iv heard a bunch of Martin guitars through the years. The way a person plays a guitar makes a big difference with this response in sound. Most of the best rhythm guitar players Iv seen don't play much lead but man they got a great rock solid strum.
I have the D 28 HD...I play gospel and am very satisfied..seems to have more high end than the D 28..I play bluegrass solos for my speed work..But ..as far as action, I prefer my Ovation Elite. been playing daily for 50 years...I read all the comments...and what most of these guys don't realize..your pick selection makes a huge difference in the sound.I have the HD model and use various thickness to get different tones...I mostly use a thin pick because the HD can make you sound bad..it's very loud. the thin to medium gives it a sweeter sound,
Spot on. Pick makes a world of difference. The HD28 has lots of sustain and is really responsive. You don't have to beat on it to get good volume. If you do beat on it with a thick pick, it sounds muddy. Little flicks with a thin pick on medium strings sound great. I don't own a D28 but from my limited experience they seem to sound better when strummed a little harder, where the HD28 seems to shine when you're doing runs or arpeggios with little pick effort.
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice?
I have had 3, d 28's. When buying all three I debated the HD but it didn't quite sound as good as the D-28 to my ears! I do love Martins, I have visited the factory in Nazareth, and met the most Pleasant people! Just my two cents worth!
Thanks for the demo, but with so much compression, either on the line, or the mic is self compressing (omni?), or the mp3, it makes it very hard to hear the nuances of the guitars, especially in the louder sections.
I own a D12-28 and I love the sound of that guitar, so I was curious what the difference was between the two. My opinion, I visually like the D28 better. Sound wise, the HD-28 has higher tones, that is obvious, while the D28 is lower & deeper. I have to admit, I did like the sound of the HD. That being said, guitar players like myself will change a guitar to play a specific song: Both of these guitars are great! If you own both, you may play one for a specific song, and the other for a different song. It’s all about style & preference. If you have one of these, enjoy it, and play it.
I have a 2008 D28 and a buddy has a 2014 HD-28. It's a subtle difference but the HD has a bit more growl and bass response. I like the standard one but you can adjust your playing, pick, etc to suit most styles. The HD is middle ground as far as scalloping and resonance, and every one is a bit different. If I were looking for a really vintage style D-28 I'd look at a D-28V or Marquis, or Authentic. If I were looking for a balanced, very resonant guitar it might be D-35 or HD-35. Above all, try them all in person.
I have a 2001 D28 that Bryan Kimsey (check out his vids, he has scores of amazing guitars that come in and out of his shop and he talks about all sorts of mods) has modded to pre-war specs. I have a bone nut, bone saddle, Waverly tuners, popsicle brace removed, binding all shaved down to pre-war specs, tortoise pickguard, and bone bridge pins. For years when I used to leave for work I would put the guitar out on its stand and put two 3 foot tall speakers on either side of it and would play music all day long facing the guitar. It may sound crazy, but I really think this opened up the guitar considerably. With all the mods that I have now, the guitar rivals an Authentic or Vintage easily. I've had so many compliments on it and even a few offers to buy. I think I got a good guitar originally, but now it is outstanding. If my house was burning down and I could only grab one thing, it would be my Martin. I plan on getting others down the line, but this one will stay with me until the day I die. Great comment, by the way, really interesting. And thanks for the video comparison! I really enjoyed watching and hearing the differences. I slightly preferred the HD-28, but they both sound great!
but do the authentics have brazilian rosewood if not they are not authentic, funny there i s guy here in maine that has enought brazilian to make 75 guitars, his guitars sound fantastic, but i have never challenged them with a brazilian martin, but they are fine sounding, and start at 4000
Strange that you mentioned the hose burning down imagery. My buddy in New Hampshire had the tragic event of his house burning down; no injuries, but he lost everything...almost. He noticed the Martin hard shell case top amidst the charred rubble...it had melted some... but it still opened, after a lot of delicate work. Inside was>>> his Martin D-41...in PERFECT condition!!! It really was a miracle, and a true story I'll never forget.
I like the D28, sounds smoother, tighter and there is lots of bass. Thanx for comparing these 2 great guitars. I play a D18v, think of selling and getting a D28. Thanx Jim
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice? Thinking the D28 will sound better in the long run.
wow-- hard to tell, but maybe the D28 brings a little more distinction of each note in the picking section-- the HD sounds a little muddy-- perhaps bc the bass is louder, and it overtones the picking?
Well, I bought my HD-28 in 1986, 3 years after it was made. It's really starting to 'break in' now...and I tell ya, from a guy who has been lucky to play them all...this HD-28, even with lighter gauge stringing, has the sweetest, finest tone of any guitar I've had the privilege to play. Even with, and despite the Indian rosewood. My 30 year test session is now completed.
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice?
@@zip7806 New strings for the HD-28. This from the person who almost never changes strings and gets that Old Dirt Strings sound on my guitar. Different tones. My tendency? When a string breaks, I change to new strings and then let those die over time. Interesting to hear the tonal difference of worn, dead strings over new, crisp strings.
Yes, yes, yes! Exactly what I was thinking as an evaluation of both instruments, their sounds, strengths, and differences. I would choose the HD as I sometimes don't want to dig in to get a sound. If I had to dig in and hold a defined sound I would choose a tighter sounding guitar. It would be nice to have different guitars to cover different playing needs if one can afford to do so.
@@zip7806 personally I play .13 (Medium) strings for more than 20 years. Only recently I bought a set of Martin Authentic Acoustic 12,5 gauge because the guy in the shop recommended them. I bought them just out of curiousity and well, I must say they sound great, a bit easier to play yet tight enough when strummed. My impression is that they sound fresh for longer than what I was used to see on other string sets. But that I can't say for sure since they still could die in a sudden which sometimes happens w. strings. It also depends on your particular guitar. My D18GE has forward shifted bracing which can still move the adi top w. lighter strings. It wasn't the case always. But after riding in this guitar w. 0.13 strings for 20+ years this flat top can breath now. So what works on my flat top might not on yours. It's a long journey of trial and error.
Both are TOO resonant in that the overtones go on longer than you might want. The D-28 sounds clearer than the HD-28, and, surprisingly, a little louder. I'm more partial to the Gibson J series in that there's more focus on the fundamentals, and sweeter tone than many Martins, yet there is plenty of volume. would not turn away a good Martin, though. Thanks for the demo.- Charles
I stopped in in 1976 and at that time you had quite a few of the “lawsuit” Takamines, quite a few Ovation, etc. I bought a guitar that had all the bling of a D45 but it was no Martin. Maybe it was an Aria or something but I was wishing I hAd bought the Takamine. Anyway that was the last time I was in your lovely city! You play nicely. Enjoyed listening to you through sme Bluegooth headphones. Been up all night listening to various things. Good morning San Antonio!
Fretboard Radius to Flat (16") and Nut to Wide (1.75") for my liking. Guild D55 more comfortable playing Guitar, with 12" Radius Fretboard and slightly narrower Nut Width, not to mention CAVERNOUS Tone and STRESS free lighting fast 'Action'. Going to get one when I win the Lottery. LOL
This is a great vid. There both great gits, I've had both and find the HD sings a little bit more. I would do a close up on the vid when you describe the purfeling. Just a thought.
I have a 1969 D28 with Brazilian, not Indian, rosewood. Neither of the models demonstrated in the video has tone quite as rich as mine, but I thought the D28 sounded more resonant and sweeter than the HD28, which was brighter and had very good clarity. I think I would prefer the D28 for flat picking, but perhaps the HD28 for fingerstyle pieces.
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice? Thinking the D28 will sound better in the long run.
Great demo. Great comparison. Fantastic job, Chris. I have the 1983 HD-28 [150th Anniv. Ed.; C.F. Martin: 1833-1983] and it's remarkable...tone wise and otherwise. Do you know what was 'special' about that 1983 Sp.Ed. HD-28? Much appreciated. Tx. Doc
And here I always thought the "H" was referring to "Hawaiian", a historical confusion about the Hawaiian obsession back in the day. And yeah, The HD 28 does sound warmer, less jangly
what he does not tell you is a d28 is a more rugged guitar and can handle heavy strings that bluegrass players want for that wicked strong base, where as they advise light or light med for the hd28. i put full med on my hd28 for the more powerful sound and say ill probably be dead before it busts and then my grandson can have it fixed
I love my 2005 D28 rich full sound at any position. Listening to these two I still prefer the sound of the D 28 much Fuller richer tones. Maybe the HD 28 will sound with some age on it.
They didn’t stop using herringbone to cut costs. They stopped using it because it was coming from Germany and we went to war with them and Martin couldn’t get it anymore. They stopped using the scalloped bracing because people were using heavy strings at that time with obviously heavier tension. It was a structural issue.
Well, I can't argue with what you said but I see lots of people buy expensive guitars and think their playing will improve. If you can't drive a VW you will not be able to do any better in a MB.
The only thing that will improve your playing is practice. Expensive guitars are usually easier to play and just sound better and that makes you want to pick it up and play and play.
Idk maybe my ears aren’t that good but I can possibly hear a little more brightness on the D28 vs the HD. The things he was playing seemed more suited for the D28 until he started strumming and then I was like wow the HD sounds bigger. Idk?
Which one do you like best? In legal terms he won't say which he likes best unless martin has made a deal with him to advertise or push one model . If your some guy with two views of your post you would be fine but 200,000 views your post is coming down plus chances of a more worse penalty.
The information on how the guitars are made is helpful, but this comparison of sound is pretty much useless because of the poor recording. There is a lot of low rumble bouncing around the room, so it is hard to tell much. I think with a proper recording the HD would show more subtle gains in sound.
Mathews: Yep. They are cannons. But I'm not playing Bluegrass trying to cut through a banjo so I want a Taylor or something much more versatile than a loud, deep sounding Martin most of the time.
@@rtgray7 Martin is very versatile. I suggest you go look at some history. They have the same bracing. There both x bracing only difference is one is scallop. Your history on the D 28 isn't right.
In the 30' for 1 year martin used scalloped bracing. 34 or 38. The tops cracked so they stopped. Then in like 66 or 68 they put scalloped bracing in the D-16. Everyone started buying the D-16. So martin stop making the D-16. Then started making the HD-28. The whole purpose of the scalloped bracing and the forward shifted bracing. Was for newer Martin's to have volume as the older prewar guitars. Prewar bracing was only in 00 and 000 guitars, in Germany. Maybe a few in the USA. Prewar bracing was used in the early 70's.
Odd how some thought the HD sounded fuller than the D To my ear the D 28 had a richer more pleasing tone... in this example, I have found the reverse at times when playing various D’s and HD’s in the stores Like they say no two guitars are exactly the same
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice? Thinking the D28 will sound better in the long run.
The HD28 is a bit of a brighter sound. I have an HD28, but I have to admit there could be a tad more volume and depth from the D28. The HD has a bit more glassy clarity, but the D28 seems tge better all-round sound to my ears.
I live in Montana one day I was in greatfalls seen a guitar case leaning on A parking meter no one around I opened it wow a d28 Martin in case I put add,s out no one claimed it still have it today lucky me
The HD sounds spot on like my taylor, i was looking into getting a Martin for their unique sound so i definitely don't think the HD is my choice out of the two
D28 sounds deeper and richer to me. Both are really works of functioning art. I keep in mind every D28 and HD28 is going to sound a bit different. It would be interesting to compare two new D28s to each other.
I dont mean to be off topic but does anyone know a tool to get back into an Instagram account..? I stupidly lost the password. I appreciate any tips you can give me
@Landyn Erick thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site on google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now. Takes a while so I will reply here later with my results.
The d28 is my favorite the deeper natural sound of a real guitar. The hd is still a good sounding guitar brighter but in my opinion if i am spending the money I want the d28
Watching the this on 31st December 2021! Still great content after all these years and great improvement on production! Also great playing even way before!
The Herringbone binding was not cut to lower the price point, it was cut because it was a German made product and was not available during WWII. Also, the stopping of scalloping of the braces correspond to heavier gauge strings more than cost cutting.
I really can't tell any difference at all. Now being a long time guitar player I am a big fan of bracing. There is lots of tension pulling up on that bridge. You all know that and do you know absolutely the hump on the top of a lot of older acoustic guitars. The old 12 strings are prone to that nasty hump on the top. I have re set a couple necks and all sorts of things to fit this problem and prevent it. The main thing I did was to buy a D-28 last week before I had no choice in bracing. I will never notice the small things like the new vs old bindings. The old sealed tuners the keep dirt out or open gear tuners, no big thing, but more secure brace. I will notice when the top pulls up. Great video sir and thank you.
Thanks for putting this together, Chris. Both guitars sound great, but in this recording the D-28 wins my vote. It sounds cleaner, tighter and more balanced than the HD while still having a full-bodied sound. The HD-28 does sounds a little fuller here than the D-28 and has better bass response, but in Chris's hands the D-28 sounded smoother overall. I tried both the HD and the D in a music store about a week ago. In the store I liked the sound of the HD more. It sounded super rich and full in the music store. I guess the moral of the story is you need to get out and play a few until one of them calls your name.
D-28 seems to have a fuller sound, which I prefer. Nice demo!
I have a 2002 HD 28. IMHO I think it sounds and plays the best. Taylor seems a little easier sometimes depending on the model but tone is not as bold. Also, every time I take my HD 28 Martin out of the case the aroma is incredible. I called Martin and they said that they were all a little different and that was definitely a bonus.They are both fine instruments.
Like both, especially the looks of the HD28. Prefer the D28 sound a bit better. More mellow to my ears. Having said that, I'd be very happy with either one ! :-)
I have an HD28 and an HD35. They are the best sounding Guitars I've ever played. I prefer the HD28 to anything.
James Christopher me 2 best guitar I have ownes
I could not possibly argue with that. We're in a select group of players who got the exactright combo of spruce tops and superior craftsmanship.
I will take that HD 35 off your hands. Would you be interested in a very nice Gibson RB 250 Banjo?
I have a d 28 made in 1968 I had it for 48 year it bet HD 28 I thank
@@hermanlovejoy60 That's almost readable. Good for you, keep practicing.
Im shopping now and no question for me at least the HD28 is the target for me. Both are beautiful sounding but WOW HD28 for sure
HD 28 all the way. I have one and its by far the best guitar I've ever heard.
They really are fantastic!
Did you compare to the d-35 when you were looking?
@@jberkley17 I've had two D35 guitars and had problems with both. The frets lifted and the white trim came unstuck. Just unlucky I guess, but they are great sounding guitars.
I think the difference, due to the bracing, lies in the shimmer, or resonance that I heard in the HD -28 verses the standard D-28, which seems to have a darker quality to it. It boils down to your preference. After all, your guitar is the one that sweetly sings back to you when you play it. :)
I was extremely lucky to get a 175th anniversary issue HDV-28 custom with abalone snowflake markers. They will have to pry it from my cold dead hands! Enjoyed learning the differences, Thanks
IMHO:
Both tonally are similar.
HD is brighter/louder.
D is softer, slightly muted.
As a teen I fell in love with the Herringbone design. I own a HD28 and have to say the hype is real, the reputation well earned, and, the guitar sounds like angels just showed-up...
The reason the herringbone was discounted was during WWII the manufacture was actually a German company and they could not get it during that time.
The HD-28 has more bass and has a richer tone than the D28. I have both, and the HD-28 just sounds better, however both are great guitars.
I don't play, but I own my late dad's D-28 Herringbone made in 1944. If I ever sell it, where do I begin? And yes, I've seen the many comments about the value of this instrument. Thank you very much and I enjoyed your video.
raincoatriver oh who cares what ya do with the guitar man, it’s a comparison video not a value one. Jeez 🙄
I'm a Mahogany guy and had D-18's and Collings D1A guitars in the past. I just bought an HD28 and really love it. Different sound then the Mahogany back guitars. The Collings D1A will always be my favorite. Total cannon of a guitar. Wish I still had it.
For me the HD 28 was more "sensitive" to playing nuances. Highly interesting comparison, but the recording quality was not good enough this time.
I wish you could buy fresh Diry old strings. for the HD
Very good. I like the fact that you compare them bit by bit, rather than a whole session with one and then the other,.
Two fabulous guitars. How could you go wrong?
Well said!
Thank you for a great review! I lived just outside of S.A. for six years. I was down town on the Riverwalk several times a year. I never knew y’all existed. I don’t know how. We would spend so much time at Sam Ash and Guitar Center I would have loved to check out your store. Now we live in Montana. Sigh...
At least now you could go to Music Villa if you're close to Boseman.
@@bgp6656, I plan to if I’m ever near Bozeman and have the time. However, I live five hours away and don’t get to that side of the state much.
D28, absolutely.
Definitely an apples to oranges comparison. And I like both!
Technical question.
Do all D28 or HD28 are rosewood back and sides?
Thanks
Yes
Do they Both have the same fresh 2.0 strings? I've been playing both of these for hours. The d28 has dirty phosphor bronze and hd new 2.0's.
Now I have to hear the d28 with new Authentic 2.0's before I can make the decision. sometimes the HD sound to bright, But may be perfect with Dirty Strings. I let you know how it goes after i bring it home.
ZZP Zing Pheonix what did you find when you changed the strings? I’ve got an HD28 and I’ve changed from stock Martin strings to a couple of other brands and haven’t found my keeper set yet.
Great playing, Chris! I dunno, call me crazy, but the tone of the D28 seems a bit tighter, more focused. Seems like the HD28 is awash in overtones, which some people undoubtedly love, but I'm not crazy about.
Chad Thorne you are spot on with the tone difference. The HD-28’s scalloped bracing gives more overtones while the tapered bracing of the D-28 yields a tighter response. Martin just redesigned the D-28 and we should receive ours any day so watch for that review. -Chris McKee
I'm just about to buy a new D28, so I'll chime in, too! lol
That's probably the best explanation of what I am hearing between the two. I also like the D28's tighter sound.
I have to say that my concerns about the 2017 D-28 were completely unfounded. I actually love the action of the open-gear tuners, and the tone of this instrument is breathtaking. Clearly the change to forward-shifted bracing was well warranted; it yields a very vintage tone. The fretboard is just a tiny bit wider, great for my not-slender fingers.
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice?
Thanx for the video! I love both, but I prefer the wide sound and greater harmonics of the D28
My friend has a twenty year old Martin D-41. I play fiddle in the band with him and it's the best sounding guitar Iv ever heard and Iv heard a bunch of Martin guitars through the years. The way a person plays a guitar makes a big difference with this response in sound. Most of the best rhythm guitar players Iv seen don't play much lead but man they got a great rock solid strum.
I have the D 28 HD...I play gospel and am very satisfied..seems to have more high end than the D 28..I play bluegrass solos for my speed work..But ..as far as action, I prefer my Ovation Elite. been playing daily for 50 years...I read all the comments...and what most of these guys don't realize..your pick selection makes a huge difference in the sound.I have the HD model and use various thickness to get different tones...I mostly use a thin pick because the HD can make you sound bad..it's very loud. the thin to medium gives it a sweeter sound,
Spot on. Pick makes a world of difference. The HD28 has lots of sustain and is really responsive. You don't have to beat on it to get good volume. If you do beat on it with a thick pick, it sounds muddy. Little flicks with a thin pick on medium strings sound great. I don't own a D28 but from my limited experience they seem to sound better when strummed a little harder, where the HD28 seems to shine when you're doing runs or arpeggios with little pick effort.
nicely done. good choice of music to demonstrate both these wonderful guitars.
The D28, and the HD, change to fit your musical direction, that is the magic. It's mystical! Try bluegrass, then go to fusion jazz, spot on.
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice?
I have had 3, d 28's. When buying all three I debated the HD but it didn't quite sound as good as the D-28 to my ears! I do love Martins, I have visited the factory in Nazareth, and met the most Pleasant people! Just my two cents worth!
What year D28 and hd28? what strings for both
Thanks for the demo, but with so much compression, either on the line, or the mic is self compressing (omni?), or the mp3, it makes it very hard to hear the nuances of the guitars, especially in the louder sections.
I own a D12-28 and I love the sound of that guitar, so I was curious what the difference was between the two. My opinion, I visually like the D28 better. Sound wise, the HD-28 has higher tones, that is obvious, while the D28 is lower & deeper. I have to admit, I did like the sound of the HD. That being said, guitar players like myself will change a guitar to play a specific song: Both of these guitars are great! If you own both, you may play one for a specific song, and the other for a different song. It’s all about style & preference.
If you have one of these, enjoy it, and play it.
Lol trying hard to decide between the two. Any thoughts on these vs the HD 35?
You don't ship to us so quickly in the UK matey. I ordered a Martin HD28 in Nov 21 and - I hear - the next delivery is end of Sept 2022!
The HD28 has a warmer tone. Both sound amazing though.
the d28 has a warmer tone
@@anom3778 I prefer the 28
I have a 2008 D28 and a buddy has a 2014 HD-28. It's a subtle difference but the HD has a bit more growl and bass response. I like the standard one but you can adjust your playing, pick, etc to suit most styles. The HD is middle ground as far as scalloping and resonance, and every one is a bit different. If I were looking for a really vintage style D-28 I'd look at a D-28V or Marquis, or Authentic. If I were looking for a balanced, very resonant guitar it might be D-35 or HD-35. Above all, try them all in person.
I have a 2001 D28 that Bryan Kimsey (check out his vids, he has scores of amazing guitars that come in and out of his shop and he talks about all sorts of mods) has modded to pre-war specs. I have a bone nut, bone saddle, Waverly tuners, popsicle brace removed, binding all shaved down to pre-war specs, tortoise pickguard, and bone bridge pins. For years when I used to leave for work I would put the guitar out on its stand and put two 3 foot tall speakers on either side of it and would play music all day long facing the guitar. It may sound crazy, but I really think this opened up the guitar considerably. With all the mods that I have now, the guitar rivals an Authentic or Vintage easily. I've had so many compliments on it and even a few offers to buy. I think I got a good guitar originally, but now it is outstanding. If my house was burning down and I could only grab one thing, it would be my Martin. I plan on getting others down the line, but this one will stay with me until the day I die. Great comment, by the way, really interesting.
And thanks for the video comparison! I really enjoyed watching and hearing the differences. I slightly preferred the HD-28, but they both sound great!
but do the authentics have brazilian rosewood if not they are not authentic, funny there i s guy here in maine that has enought brazilian to make 75 guitars, his guitars sound fantastic, but i have never challenged them with a brazilian martin, but they are fine sounding, and start at 4000
jimmythefish t
jimmythefish o
Strange that you mentioned the hose burning down imagery. My buddy in New Hampshire had the tragic event of his house burning down; no injuries, but he lost everything...almost. He noticed the Martin hard shell case top amidst the charred rubble...it had melted some... but it still opened, after a lot of delicate work. Inside was>>> his Martin D-41...in PERFECT condition!!! It really was a miracle, and a true story I'll never forget.
I have a 1995 HD28 with a black pickguard. They must have run out of the tortoise shell the day it was made. Does that make it "rare"?
D28 wins this round in my opinion. clear and just smoother sound overall. sweeter notes if you will less muddy.
I like the D28, sounds smoother, tighter and there is lots of bass. Thanx for comparing these 2 great guitars. I play a D18v, think of selling and getting a D28. Thanx Jim
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice? Thinking the D28 will sound better in the long run.
Both lovely. Both different. Glad you make this video.
I have a HD-28 with a BLACK pick guard. Wasup?
wow-- hard to tell, but maybe the D28 brings a little more distinction of each note in the picking section-- the HD sounds a little muddy-- perhaps bc the bass is louder, and it overtones the picking?
good call . exactly what i was thinking. the hd is also a bit brighter.
Well, I bought my HD-28 in 1986, 3 years after it was made. It's really starting to 'break in' now...and I tell ya, from a guy who has been lucky to play them all...this HD-28, even with lighter gauge stringing, has the sweetest, finest tone of any guitar I've had the privilege to play. Even with, and despite the Indian rosewood. My 30 year test session is now completed.
If I had the choice I would go for the D28.
The D sounds tighter and overall more focused than the HD. The HD gets a bit mushy when strummed hard but clearly wins when finger picked.
Amen..which is mostly what I do..fingerpick
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice?
@@zip7806 New strings for the HD-28. This from the person who almost never changes strings and gets that Old Dirt Strings sound on my guitar. Different tones. My tendency? When a string breaks, I change to new strings and then let those die over time. Interesting to hear the tonal difference of worn, dead strings over new, crisp strings.
Yes, yes, yes! Exactly what I was thinking as an evaluation of both instruments, their sounds, strengths, and differences. I would choose the HD as I sometimes don't want to dig in to get a sound. If I had to dig in and hold a defined sound I would choose a tighter sounding guitar. It would be nice to have different guitars to cover different playing needs if one can afford to do so.
@@zip7806 personally I play .13 (Medium) strings for more than 20 years. Only recently I bought a set of Martin Authentic Acoustic 12,5 gauge because the guy in the shop recommended them. I bought them just out of curiousity and well, I must say they sound great, a bit easier to play yet tight enough when strummed. My impression is that they sound fresh for longer than what I was used to see on other string sets. But that I can't say for sure since they still could die in a sudden which sometimes happens w. strings. It also depends on your particular guitar. My D18GE has forward shifted bracing which can still move the adi top w. lighter strings. It wasn't the case always. But after riding in this guitar w. 0.13 strings for 20+ years this flat top can breath now. So what works on my flat top might not on yours. It's a long journey of trial and error.
Both are TOO resonant in that the overtones go on longer than you might want. The D-28 sounds clearer than the HD-28, and, surprisingly, a little louder. I'm more partial to the Gibson J series in that there's more focus on the fundamentals, and sweeter tone than many Martins, yet there is plenty of volume. would not turn away a good Martin, though. Thanks for the demo.- Charles
Sounds like you need a D18.
Which one did the player prefer and why?
Hi! 012 or 013 strings gauge?
I stopped in in 1976 and at that time you had quite a few of the “lawsuit” Takamines, quite a few Ovation, etc. I bought a guitar that had all the bling of a D45 but it was no Martin. Maybe it was an Aria or something but I was wishing I hAd bought the Takamine. Anyway that was the last time I was in your lovely city! You play nicely. Enjoyed listening to you through sme Bluegooth headphones. Been up all night listening to various things. Good morning San Antonio!
VERY well done, son.
In person the HD-28 kills the D-28. And that’s saying something because the standard D-28 is already amazing.
What song are you playing from 8:46-9:56. Thanks
Fretboard Radius to Flat (16") and Nut to Wide (1.75") for my liking. Guild D55 more comfortable playing Guitar, with 12" Radius Fretboard and slightly narrower Nut Width, not to mention CAVERNOUS Tone and STRESS free lighting fast 'Action'. Going to get one when I win the Lottery. LOL
This is a great vid. There both great gits, I've had both and find the HD sings a little bit more. I would do a close up on the vid when you describe the purfeling. Just a thought.
I have the HD28 it sounds great.but then all Martins do.
HD sounds great in this solo context. D might be better with other instruments.
I have a 1969 D28 with Brazilian, not Indian, rosewood. Neither of the models demonstrated in the video has tone quite as rich as mine, but I thought the D28 sounded more resonant and sweeter than the HD28, which was brighter and had very good clarity. I think I would prefer the D28 for flat picking, but perhaps the HD28 for fingerstyle pieces.
Gary Richardson I’ve got that same model, Mine was custom made for Cleopatra, she was a folkie , been thinking might want to sell it, on Pawn STARS.
Like the HD 28.
Should’ve placed the mic at the 14th fret?
Mids are bit scooped on a HD28. The D28 cuts better. I prefer the D28 of any year but better with age.
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice? Thinking the D28 will sound better in the long run.
Great demo. Great comparison. Fantastic job, Chris. I have the 1983 HD-28 [150th Anniv. Ed.; C.F. Martin: 1833-1983] and it's remarkable...tone wise and otherwise. Do you know what was 'special' about that 1983 Sp.Ed. HD-28? Much appreciated. Tx. Doc
Chris … which one do you own.
And here I always thought the "H" was referring to "Hawaiian", a historical confusion about the Hawaiian obsession back in the day. And yeah, The HD 28 does sound warmer, less jangly
The H stands for the Herringbone style trim....
I miss my hd28 bought a taylor 414ce v brace sounds great but can't beat a dread for low e string
My D28 definitely doesn't need anymore bass. Best acoustic I've ever owned. I only wish it had the vintage logo vs the metal 07 logo but ehh
What year was that D-28?
what he does not tell you is a d28 is a more rugged guitar and can handle heavy strings that bluegrass players want for that wicked strong base, where as they advise light or light med for the hd28. i put full med on my hd28 for the more powerful sound and say ill probably be dead before it busts and then my grandson can have it fixed
Ned Kline You're a fucking idiot. Lol! Jesus.
The recording makes the D28 sound a bit Taylor like, but In sonic Reality, it’s the HD28 that will always win.
"The marking (on the back) which is very different."
I couldn't see any dif at all...
Actually, the herringbone went away because it was sourced from Germany and the war put an end to that.
How many herrings were killed for those bones?
I love my 2005 D28 rich full sound at any position. Listening to these two I still prefer the sound of the D 28 much Fuller richer tones. Maybe the HD 28 will sound with some age on it.
True...gone on 20 years and sounds much better than new
If anyone 'invented' the Dreadnought it was Jackie Fisher, after all he was First Sea Lord.
Love my $3000 + hd28 but love my $135 Yamaha too....go figure🙄
u have issues
Yamaha makes the best low priced guitars I ever heard.
No you don't own a hd28
They didn’t stop using herringbone to cut costs. They stopped using it because it was coming from Germany and we went to war with them and Martin couldn’t get it anymore. They stopped using the scalloped bracing because people were using heavy strings at that time with obviously heavier tension. It was a structural issue.
Is that an Aubrey Beardsley print on the Wall???
Well, I can't argue with what you said but I see lots of people buy expensive guitars and think their playing will improve. If you can't drive a VW you will not be able to do any better in a MB.
The only thing that will improve your playing is practice. Expensive guitars are usually easier to play and just sound better and that makes you want to pick it up and play and play.
Taylor 814ce V deluxe is the game changer. I love my all of my Martins but... Taylor made a new mode!
Idk maybe my ears aren’t that good but I can possibly hear a little more brightness on the D28 vs the HD. The things he was playing seemed more suited for the D28 until he started strumming and then I was like wow the HD sounds bigger. Idk?
Hard to judge with the compression bringing up all the ambient rumble.
Yes, lose the compression.
Which one do you like best? In legal terms he won't say which he likes best unless martin has made a deal with him to advertise or push one model . If your some guy with two views of your post you would be fine but 200,000 views your post is coming down plus chances of a more worse penalty.
Beautiful guitar playing apart from a great review / comparison..thanks Chris!
They both sound great . Yes some subtle differences but nothing game changing . Which ever one i can get for less money !
D28 sounds good to me.
The information on how the guitars are made is helpful, but this comparison of sound is pretty much useless because of the poor recording. There is a lot of low rumble bouncing around the room, so it is hard to tell much. I think with a proper recording the HD would show more subtle gains in sound.
It is against the law to even mention Taylor in the same sentence with Martin. Martin will always be the cannons of all guitars.
Mathews: Yep. They are cannons. But I'm not playing Bluegrass trying to cut through a banjo so I want a Taylor or something much more versatile than a loud, deep sounding Martin most of the time.
@@rtgray7 Martin is very versatile. I suggest you go look at some history. They have the same bracing. There both x bracing only difference is one is scallop. Your history on the D 28 isn't right.
In the 30' for 1 year martin used scalloped bracing. 34 or 38. The tops cracked so they stopped. Then in like 66 or 68 they put scalloped bracing in the D-16. Everyone started buying the D-16. So martin stop making the D-16. Then started making the HD-28. The whole purpose of the scalloped bracing and the forward shifted bracing. Was for newer Martin's to have volume as the older prewar guitars. Prewar bracing was only in 00 and 000 guitars, in Germany. Maybe a few in the USA. Prewar bracing was used in the early 70's.
@@rroman3891 lol yeah may bluegrass pickers forgive me
Yeah and I suppose Gibson don't get a mention either. I've heard quite a few Martin's I like the sound of but never played one I liked.
Odd how some thought the HD sounded fuller than the D
To my ear the D 28 had a richer more pleasing tone... in this example, I have found the reverse at times when playing various D’s and HD’s in the stores
Like they say no two guitars are exactly the same
Agreed, HD for soft and gentle, D for digging in. Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice? Thinking the D28 will sound better in the long run.
The HD28 is a bit of a brighter sound. I have an HD28, but I have to admit there could be a tad more volume and depth from the D28. The HD has a bit more glassy clarity, but the D28 seems tge better all-round sound to my ears.
8:23 he actually starts playing.
I live in Montana one day I was in greatfalls seen a guitar case leaning on A parking meter no one around I opened it wow a d28 Martin in case I put add,s out no one claimed it still have it today lucky me
WoW !!! What a mystery. Who in the world would forget where they left there Martin D28?
@James Bowling I would if I found it for sure.
HD28 is brighter but D28 is warmer and got better low ends.. So for bluegrass, D28 is a better option.
aawoo..I prefer Martin D28 sound are really awesome this is crazy
Why change something is good Martin D 28 I love ❤️ vintage sound
Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirty Strings on the HD28. Any advice?
ZZP Zing Pheonix are you considering the d-35
Terrible recording set up. The back noise and woof was horrible. Played both and bought the HD-28 for the better low notes.
D28 has a deeper tone i have had both guitars and my pref., is d28 ...sean mcghee glasgow
Im on the fence with both. buying one very soon, been playing both, I want new strings on the D28 and Old Dirt Strings on the HD28. Any advice?
Agreed. Amen.
The HD sounds spot on like my taylor, i was looking into getting a Martin for their unique sound so i definitely don't think the HD is my choice out of the two
They sound nothingness like Taylor's in person
D28 sounds deeper and richer to me. Both are really works of functioning art. I keep in mind every D28 and HD28 is going to sound a bit different. It would be interesting to compare two new D28s to each other.
I dont mean to be off topic but does anyone know a tool to get back into an Instagram account..?
I stupidly lost the password. I appreciate any tips you can give me
@Liam Imran Instablaster ;)
@Landyn Erick thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site on google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now.
Takes a while so I will reply here later with my results.
@Landyn Erick It did the trick and I now got access to my account again. I'm so happy!
Thank you so much you saved my account !
@Liam Imran glad I could help =)
Can you hook me up with a D-28?
I think both have a place in a song some where my song would be the D 28