Bought my first Martin in 1968, it was a D35. I was inspired as a lad(hehe) by the Beatles who played D28's. (Paul and John) The Martin has a distinct sound that you can easily recognize anywhere in a recording. It's a sound, vibe history you name it. I'm 70 and I still play my beautiful Martins everyday and use them extensively for recording. Nice video Mike. You might consider doing a video about famous guitarists playing their favorite Martin guitars. Great job!!
I’ve had 3 Taylor’s and I loved them all. I stacked up an 000-15m vs Taylor’s top comparable price point mahogany guitars and it sounded amazing. My first Martin, happy to have it, sounds so warm.
Buying a 000-15m was one of the best decisions I ever made. It clearly needs a setup after 3 years but it’s so well made that I still enjoy playing it.
@@LalairuI bought one a few years ago before the prices shot up. I can’t believe they’re $1700 now. It’s a good guitar. It’s the only acoustic I’ve bought that I haven’t sold/traded. Definitely save up for one if you can. Look around on the used market.
@@karmatologist you don't see them very often in Spain, and they are still expensive second hand in Europe. It's crazy. I've been playing guitar for about 15 years and the prices are impossible right now. You pay almost the same for a MIM standard tele and USA made one...
Enjoy the journey. I'm 73, fortunate to have owned Taylor, Bourgeois and Collings, but my heart belongs to Martin, with over 30 guitars from Nazareth over the decades. There are so many models and tonewoods, I retired with my 4 lifetime favorites: a Custom Shop OM-28 (Alpine over Madagascar), an OM-18 Authentic (Adirondack over Mahogany), an OM-45 TB (curly Engelmann over flamed Tasmanian Blackwood) and Custom Shop 00-42 (Premium Adirondack over Premium Madagascar). At one point years ago I had 5 Martins with 10 different tone woods, and 3 body sizes, love the sonic differences. Have fun playing, music is the best................
Spoken like a true modern “child” ..I’m the same age and am in the same boat…over the years of trading up saving for the next dream guitar you acquire things you’ve always wanted…you don’t know him . Stop and think before hammering out stupid statements like this
I got my great uncle’s Martin d28 when he passed away a few years ago & let me tell you, the sound of strumming some loud & full cowboy chords on a Martin cannot be beat!
All original, near mint condition 1972 Martin D-18. Handed down to me from my father as a graduation gift.Without a doubt one the BEST guitars I have EVER played.
Martin tone is just magical. It touches us in a deep soulful way. It’s rich and powerful and balanced. I’ve had Taylors and now I have two Martins. I appreciate the journey and what I have now. I’m also grateful for the work that was put into the instruments by people I will never meet, but their work is a beautiful gift. Thank you for your review. Well done, and tasteful.
I've played many different makes and models over the years as a solo acoustic guy, but a high end Martin guitar sounds like nothing else on earth. My D41 amber is just gorgeous and sounds like 6 strings worth of heaven.
I've been playing since 1967 and have never owned a Martin. Once, back in fall of 2010 I took an OM off the rack and played a few chords on it. It was a high-end piece and the tone was worthy of the price tag. I quickly put it back, as Murphy and his Laws are very fond of me. That's my sole experience playing a Martin, other than the OM Sigma I owned in the 70s.
My dad has a 70s era Sigma. He has been playing it since I was a kid in the 80s. I bought him a new Martin D-41 for his 70th birthday last year. Cost me a fortune, but watching him play it is worth it. The sound from that Martin is unreal.
I wanted a small guitar that sounds great, is sturdy, and portable. When I saw the Martin LX1E I was doubtful at first. But then I saw Ed Sheeran used one for many years and there were a lot of positive reviews. Now it is one of my most played guitars. I am a primary school teacher that visits a lot of schools, and I take the Martin to every school I visit. Kids love the guitar and it is a great thing to bond over.
I recently got my first Martin, an older 000-15S, which is all mahogany and a 12-fretter with a slotted headstock. I love it! I also picked up a Gibson J35 last year. After 30 years of playing, I finally have nice acoustic guitars!
I’m 63, been playing 40 yrs. Got real serious practicing and jamming with others constantly about 3 yrs ago. Always wanted a great Taylor and demo’d a 510 for three weeks. Went to buy it from a buddy who also had a Martin D18 for sale. One strum and that Taylor was cast aside. 1 yr later I was in a high end guitar store and played almost every guitar in their high end room. Ended up with a 2019 Martin D28 Authentic 1937 with the big baseball bat neck. It has the biggest baddest Martin tone that I’ve ever heard! It took many months to get used to that neck but now it just feels great. I had it setup to my preferences.
My first nice guitar was a Taylor 314ce. I legit loved that guitar. But then one day I made the mistake of picking up a Martin D18 in a guitar store and couldn’t put it down. Ended up buying it a week later because I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I eventually sold my Taylor because it just never got played and I haven’t looked back.
Man, I’m at a different moment of the same story: bought a 314CE an year ago and started feeling that I need something different. Went to the store, tested a 000-28 for a looong time and can’t stop thinking about it for a week. Maybe I should go forward and bring that home 🙃
@@adalbertoferreira7309Taylor is better in my opinion bro, my guitar is my favorite I’ve ever played. 1996 814c with added electronics, recently got it setup with dadario xs strings, 11/10.
I've been an Ovation guitar fan for decades!! Then in Sept. 2019 I tried out a triple 0 cut-away Martin, and bought it. I have a Martin D-35 currently on lay-away. I love the look and sound of Martins. Your playing is really nice!
I owned a D28 for a few years and loved it's big sound. At a guitar camp, where I was playing all day, I realized how uncomfortable the big body was to play. I began putting together a criteria of what I wanted in a smaller body guitar: rosewood, 1 3/4 nut, short scale, and scalloped bracing. The perfect fit to my criteria was the OOO28 EC. I found a used one and after a period of adjustment I fell in love with it. My only mistake was, I sold the D28. Maybe someday I'll get an HD28 (has much bigger sound than the D28) but I'll have to sell a couple of guitars before that happens.
@@carsonforrester3061 The internal bracing is different hence the difference in sound. The D28 has tapered bracing (heavy) and the HD 28 has scalloped bracing which why it has the canon like sound. First time I played an HD28, when I owned the D28, the difference was overwhelming, not at all subtle.
I inherited my grandfather’s old Martin Sigma DR-41. It may be from Martin’s discontinued budget line but it’s the best acoustic I have ever heard or played.
I’ve had a GPCPA-4 Shaded for almost a decade now and recently got a OOO-28. I just played them in the store and was floored by the low end, clarity, and warmth they have. I have a couple Taylors as well, but with the recent OOO-28 purchase, I think I’ve cemented myself as a Martin guy. I play fingerstyle folk kinda stuff and Martin just does that so well
I played a 70’s Sigma(by Martin) D-28 that I kind of permanently borrowed from my dad for years, then 2 years ago I finally bought a used 2016 Martin HD-28V that I got a good deal on Reverb. I noticed immediately that it was a step up from the Sigma, but still wasn’t really blown away by the sound. For the price I was thinking what’s the big deal with Martin’s? I was starting to wonder if I got a dud and that’s why the dude sold it. I’ve played the crap out of it for these last 2 years and the first year I had a Tonerite plugged in and attached to it so it was vibrating like it was being played 24-7 when I wasn’t playing it. I would even capo it a different fret each week and play chords everywhere on the neck. It’s all really paid off, the guitar just needed to be played and opened up. It just sings now and has some crazy sustain with notes that just keep going. I totally love it now and I’ve got the 12 string version on my wish list lol Edit: btw since I got my Martin I cleaned up my dad’s old Sigma D-28, put new strings on it and gave it back to my dad. He’s now getting back into guitar playing again lol
Great video and love to see your energy about music and the guitar. I bought my first Martin guitar in 1976. What sold me was the sound, particularly the bass, and the value. I've been up to 12 Martin guitars recently in my collection and recently have sold off 6 at way more than I payed for them. Now I plan on selling 4 more and only keeping my 12 string and one six string guitar. These last handful are all vintage and from the 60's and are worth a small fortune- but the sound these guitars product is off the charts! I can't play them all and hope others will enjoy them as much as I have. So, that is the second biggest reason to buy a Vintage Martin, is the resale value. But when it gets right down to it, no matter what the make or model, when you pick it up for the first time and start playing it - you will know if its the right one or not.
I love hearing guitarists just chatting about guitars! I have 3 Martins (HD28, D-Jr 10E, and LX1-E) and absolutely love them. I originally wanted a Martin because it seemed as though all of the great musicians I absolutely love all play Martins! (At least, when playing an acoustic guitar). I figured - if good enough for them, how could I go wrong. I love that ‘warm’ deep tone that only a Martin seems to have. Absolutely no regrets!
Mike, always love your approach to guitars and music. Technical excellence with wonderful humor. I owned a D16e for a time. Then I got my hands on a OMC16e in Ovangkol and immediately traded D16 on the OMC. That particular wood has a more balanced tone than any guitar I have ever played. It is sometimes compared with Koa in tone. Multiple times I have had other musicians make comments about that aspect of it. I have other dreads' and had acquired a D35 following the D16 but of all my guitars the OMC is the favorite by far. Until I picked it up I did not know there was such a big hole in my guitar heart. I will do my damndest to wear it out before I die, and I am already old. I like her so much she was given a name.
OMG! Several times I actually burst out laughing! I have 3 Martins and each has a different sound. But the very entertaining and humorous way you presented it was priceless. You have such a humorous presentation I can’t believe it😂
Used to play electric but now i play a Epiphone Texan USA made factory strings going on 3 years sounds like bliss in mud i am intrigued but low on funds maybe one day. i just love playing. Your enthusiasm hits i appreciate.
My first good acoustic was a Martin OMC 1e... I used that from the time I was 15 till I was 24. Then I bought a D28. Changed my life. So much depth and fullness. Playing that D28 4-5 nights a week for 3 years now never gets old. I've always loved Martins.. but also really like Eastmans as well. I have an Eastman e10ss (Gibson j45 clone) that I use for rhythm tracks. Great quality for the money. Great video dude!
Oh man acoustics are like new but not new to me. I’ve always played electric and I’ve played acoustic but never owned one. When I did need to purchase one I needed to know why I was going to purchase one because I was going to drop bank on it. I chose a Takamine off their legacy line since I play a lot of Mexican style music (I’m Mexican lol) and it’s versatile enough to play any other genre since I play a lot of country too. I’m loving the 12 string sound as well
I love your energy, and enjoy these stories of your guitar journeys! I was recently impressed with a Martin GPC-X2E at my local shop. I had no idea Martin made such an affordable player's guitar, or that it would sound so good compared to other cutaway electro'coustics at similar prices. I could see having that GPC, or a DC-X2E in my future😊
Once i played a D28 i was hooked forever. As young man without much money it drove me crazy. I tried the cheaper ones made in Mexico and it just didnt cut it. But eventually i had enough to buy one and ever since then ive had nothing but D28 models and a Gibson. Im still poor but if im gonna play guitar i gotta have a solid wood Martin or Gibson. Its worth it to me. The history, nalstalgia, made in usa, means something to me too. They have that antique front porch sound that i love. A HD28 and Gibson J45 will last me the rest of my life so money well spent. Yes they are expensive but you end up spending more when buying multiple guitars over the years. I just bought my 2 dream guitars and got it overwith. Ill never need to spend another dime on guitars again. It all evens out
When I went looking for a Martin I decided I wanted a small body so I looked at 00's. I found a shop that had 3. A 28, a 18 and a 15. After playing them for about an hour I made my choice, the 00-15 14 fret. It is darker in tone than both the 18 and 28, mostly due to wood choices ( both rosewood with spruce top ), while the 15 is all mahogany except for the fretboard. That was 18 years ago and I've been happy with my choice ever since.
Same here. I was sure I wanted a spruce top 21 series but tried the om-15 out on a whim … never looked back. That dark warm woody tone is just unbeatable at any price.
Coming from left field here, but just picked up an Orangewood Oliver Live and it has become the prime staple to getting a first great sounding acoustic without breaking the bank.
I hate how infrequently UA-cam notifies me of your content. I enjoy your enthusiasm for your instrument more than any other content creator. I wish I had your dedication when I was a young man.
I’ve played a Hofner acoustic for 14 years now and as much as I love it and would never part with it, I’d also love to have a Martin to accompany it. I have a plastic back ovation which is a bit of a beater to take camping and for days down the beach too. Be a nice little trio.
A lot of people would tell this story as “oh a guy I knew in college had a Martin and I liked it” to find the profound in the mundane is a true talent and I really enjoy your videos
I'm a small dude, I use guitars live a lot but I also like having some warmth and roundness. I recently purchased the Martin DJR-10 and it's awesome! And it's also very cheap to be a full solid wood martin guitar! The tone is amazing!
Picked up a new Martin 3 months ago. I thought I’d end up with a D-28 or a 000-28. In the end, after a lot of playing, the OM-28 came home with me. Sounds epic!
Great vid! I bought an OM-28 Marquis in 2007. It is still the best sounding guitar I've ever played (and I've played a lot). It sounds great with super light or super heavy strings (although I've permanently settled on 10-47's now). It sounds great when either finger picked, strummed or to shred on through a vast array of genres. It handles whatever tuning I can throw at it and will remain in that tuning without slipping. With a decent mic in a studio you can pluck the A sting once and it will ring out for 30+ seconds. The intonation is phenomenal and the balance of high end and low end is spot on. It was a hefty investment at the time for me but since then I haven't had any need for another acoustic guitar for studio or general home use. I will have it until I die. Martin guitars at the entry level can feel a little underwhelming but once you start spending $3k+ in my opinion they far out perform everything else at a similar monetary value. Not to mention if you purchase one new in the USA it has a lifetime warranty.
I had wanted a Martin guitar since my late teens, but then college and marriage and kids went to the front of the line first. After all the kids were raised and were on their own, I came into possession of a beautiful Martin HD35 and later a 12 string D28. They were both worth the wait.
55 years old and finally have my first Martin - 1983 D-28. 3 months later, I bought a 1970 D12-35. Never assume Martin can't make a competitive, professional 12-string - thing sounds like a freaking orchestra.
I'm a guitar player who wouldn't buy another Martin if you paid me. I am left handed so my my guitars have to be made for me, for the majority of makers. I had a Martin made for me, when it came I saw that it was Made In mexico, says so on the label. The back of the neck is so rough that I could use it for an Emory board to file my nails. Cheap and deficient manufacturing in my opinion. I buy Taylors. My Taylor guitars are made in the USA, says so on the label. Excellent quality, I love my Taylors. The K26ce is the most beautiful guitar I have ever played.
I'm basically a chord strummer and I like my Martin dread for that, but I also have a 000 and OM because in some settings (like playing along with my wife who plays piano) the dreadnought can be a bit overwhelming and the more balanced sound of an OM is more appropriate. And sometimes I just want to play a smaller body guitar because it's comfortable.
I play several dreads and early this year got a OMC16e Ovangkol. It quickly became my favorite general purpose 6 string for the simple reason is it is compact, has sweet warm balanced tone and is one of the few Martins I have seen with a beautiful brown sunburst top. If I am not playing a 12 string, she is on my lap 90% of the rest of the time. The only similar guitar I have is a '63 Epiphone Cabellero all mahogany guitar, Epiphone's copy of the Gibson LGO model. Originally an $80 'student' guitar but all solid wood with ladder bracing and sounds nice after 60 years of age. I usually play 12 strings on stage but if not it is my OMC now.
I got an SC 13 because I play live and mostly solo plugged into a voicelive 3 and an HX stomp. It is one of the most versatile stage acoustic guitars you can have. But at home when I’m just jamming out, I play Gibson J 200. Great video, Mike.
And now that you have played a Martin, now its time to play a Breedlove Oregon Myrtlewood Concerto model. I had a Martin, a very high end Martin, and I developed a love-hate relationship very quickly. Was glad that I was able to get my money back when I sold it. Bought my Breedlove and have never looked back.
I brought a M36 recently and love it for its versatility. It is a stablemate for my huge toned J16 12 string and my 30 year old Taylor 510 dreadnought. All are fantastic guitars in their own way.
Mike I love your videos, good Sir. Educational without any snobbery: your nice-ness shines through. Clearly, 100% somebody we’d love hang out with & jam & talk about equipment with.
I'm an old fart (over 70) and about 25 years ago I was thinking I'd like to have a Martin D-18 maybe. I couldn't bring myself to pull the trigger because I didn't want to spend that much money on wood & wire. So in 2000 for our 25th anniversary my wife gave me a Martin D-35. OMG!! 😊😊 I just love that guitar and the woman who gave it to me. So Now I'm starting to talk to her about Taylor... Cant wait to see if she does it again. It's not going to replace my D-35 but I think they can share the room with each other & make nice. 😊 Thanks for such an enjoyable site to visit, Mike.
I have 3 Martins. The last one is my favorite. It’s an OM-18 Authentic 1933. After 3 right shoulder/arm surgeries, I needed something smaller than a D. I fell in love with the feel and the sound.
The first nice guitar that I bought myself was a Martin GPC 16-e with mahogany back and sides and I wanted a comfortable guitar with a smooth and well-rounded sound that had access to the upper frets for those few and far between occasions where I’m trying to get up there. The large bout gives it a full and deep sound and you still get good clarity up in the high notes! I’m just absolutely stoked with it! I do put elixirs on it, so that does add in a little extra brightness.
Love Martin guitars. My first was a 0015m all mahogany that I sadly sold a few years back. Recently got my dream Ceo-7 though and will never sell! Such a joy to play with such a big warm sound
I used to play dreads but a bad fall over 9 years ago and it is hard on my shoulder to reach around that big box. The nicest Martin I ever played was a Robbie Robertson 000-42 solid koa at Matin in 2012. It was a 12 fret and it was UTTERLY AMAZING !!!!!! But for $8000 + it should be Utterly Amazing ! Just beautiful !
Dad got me a Made in Mexico Martin for $500ish for my first guitar. Very low end oriented, almost too much but the salesman played a nasty run on it and strummed it a few times. I still have it and never will get rid of it. The spruce top aged ridiculously it was like parchment white when I got it and now it is a full tan. She’s simple but amazing. In comparison to a lot of guitars in the same budget, none of them had that low end. In the same vain, many of them were more versatile sounding as the mid range and high ends were clearer. Makes a mean strummer though. And since it has no lacquer or inlays, she’s a workhorse through and through. Gotta love it. Does make me want a more well rounded acoustic but something about it makes me never want to get another as the sentimental value of it will always make it my go to even if I had another acoustic
I'm a bluegrass/flatpick guitarist. I need a guitar that is big, warm with lots of midrange, and can punch out those single note runs as well as compete with banjo, mandolin and fiddle. That's why I have a 2015 Martin D28 Authentic 1937 and a 2012 Martin D18 Authentic 1937. At times I play solo (into a condenser mic) and I want as much sound as I can get. I also play bottleneck blues on National guitars and these Martins down need any sound adjustment when swapping between. I just love that big sound that roars, the power of the Madagascar Rosewood (D28) and the warmth & clarity of the Mahogany (D18). They're pricey, but you never regret the purchase because you do get what you pay for.
I started with a Takemine Dred then into a D16E Martin. Today I have a Martin D35 which is the most brilliant guitar I have ever played. I also have an Eastman E40OM which is nearly as brilliant, sounds like a Martin, and a lot less expensive. The 000 size of the OM just fits everything.
I've been playing a Martin d35 I bought new in 1970. Incredible sound and playability. Also have a GPC35E that is amazing. My other steel string is a Maton te1. Great sound and plays like an electric even with 12s.
Just recently purchased a D18 and it just plain kicks ass. Played a $5000 Santa Cruz, Collings, and a Huss and dalton. The D18 still sounded better. Martin has really been stepping it up the past few years.
I picked up a used 2014 -The Martin Custom GPCPA4 Rosewood Performing artist acoustic-electric guitar for about $1,000 shipped. It sounds fantastic for a beginner like me. So pleased with the ease and feel of the neck. Makes me want to pick it up every time I’m in the room. This is helpful to improve my playing and enjoyment of music. Thank you for keeping it real and entertaining me.
I recently bought an M-36, it’s got the OM body shape and depth but’s as wide as their dreadnaught. It sounds great on fingerstyle and strumming, lots of mids, strong but not boomy bass. I’m really enjoying it. Although I wish I could have compared it to the OM-28 side by side, but the shop didn’t have any in stock
I have to admit that my next Martin would likely be a M-36. Just seems to be the intersection of great features. Maybe I should try one first? Ha, I’d have fly somewhere to do so.
Back in 2004, I bought a Martin DM Road Series through no logical reasoning whatsoever. I had met a guy in college that said Martin was the brand to get. I'm from Pennsylvania, Martin is from Pennsylvania... it made sense. When it was finally time for me to get an acoustic (after playing electric for more than 10 years), I ended up going to a Martin sponsored event at the local guitar shop and came home with the DM. I knew nothing about acoustic guitars at the time. As the years passed, other acoustics that I tried were just... not like my DM. 19 years later, that DM stands toe to toe with brand new D-18s at nearly 4x the price. The difference is 90% cosmetic. I feel like I really lucked into something. I'm convinced their Road Series is still the best value out there. There is nothing wrong with Gibsons or Taylors or Alvarez, or most other reputable brands. The right guitar will speak to you. Whatever makes you love music and love playing guitar, that's your instrument no matter what name is on the headstock. Don't let anyone tell you differently. But for me... I just happen to be a Martin lifer.
I bought a D-16e about a year ago. It is the perfect acoustic to me. The width is perfect and the neck feels so good. Even my friends that aren’t Martin fans like that guitar. It just has a magic to me that I can’t explain unless you pick one up
I had this problem with a D-28 Marquis that I didn't buy. Years later, I'm out trying to hunt one down without spending too great a fortune. Every now and then, an instrument comes along that just speaks to you. It's different for everyone. It is to Martin's credit (and also Taylor, Gibson, Alvarez, etc) that so many people find that magic in their instruments.
New to the Martin family - bought 2 this year: 1983 D-28, 1970 D12-35. I've played Seagulls previously - a fabulous guitar for the money, but Seagull falls short - they all do. When you go out and learn a song perfectly and it still doesn't sound quite right, I believe the gap can be bridged by buying one of these icons. That's what the pros use and that why no matter how well you learn a song, it won't ever get there...unless you have a Martin.
I had a Friends Dad who was a WWII Vet and bought a Martin guitar just before leaving to board a Navy Cruiser in the North Atlantic. He never learned how to play it. I remember going to there house and seeing it hang on the wall. At about 13 (1980) I finally got the nerve to ask Mr. P if I could borrow it to learn how to play guitar, of course he said yes! I quickly got my Mom to sign me up for guitar lessons. I went to the first class and the teacher took one look and told me I will never be able to play it. I know now that 30 years of hanging on the wall in a Air conditioned house took it’s toll on it. After a few months I gave it back and never asked for it again. Then at the young age of 44 (2011) I bought a guitar a(Seagull S-6) and started to learn house to play. As I got better I dreamed of days past when I had that Martin in my hand. In 2014 I bought my first Martin and it was a HD-28 and love it. Then in 2017 bought a Martin JR, in 2021 in bought a SC-13E. And finally yesterday I finally bought my Dream guitar a 1967 D-28 which I will have in my possession tomorrow! CAN’T WAIT!!!! Love the sounds of Martins and always will!!!
Great Video, as always. Just wanted to give you a friendly tip, if it's possible try to look into the camera lens, as a viewer it sometimes gets distracting when you look in the camera screen.
I tried D28 today and now I understand why everybody’s raving abt Martin guitars. Sounds really sweet and well rounded. I have Ovation Legend, Takamine and Zager 80CE. The Zager came the closest to Martin IMO. Now I’ll start saving up for a D28 or if funds permits a custom shop version.
Thank you for your thoughts Mr. Cole. I just bought a Martin GPEC11E AE. I'm a total beginner, but have been hard at it for a few months. I played my beginner series Fender so much the neck twisted beyond what it was worth to fix. I landed on my Martin because I asked the fat old guy in Guitar Center to show his best guitars around a thousand bucks that could compete with some higher end models. He'd been playing guitars longer than I've been alive, so his words had a lot of weight. Anyhow, the Martin was the clear winner after going through a bunch of brands and models.
I have a 1998 Martin SPD-16T and as much as I love that guitar, my go-to is my 2013 Collings D2HA. It is built to absolute perfection and the tone is unmatched by any other brand.
My 2019 Martin D Special is all natural mahogany, no laminate and no electronics. That is my criteria for a great songwriter setup. All acoustic guitar's electronics are different and Not One is impressive to my ear! I luv my Martin special
Love the D-16 e, I mean really any reliable guitar with Indian rosewood and spruce top is gonna sound phenomenal, in my opinion, I love that combo but Martins just have a sound like no other....Great Video
Was playing an Epiphone acoustic from the 80s for ages. In 2008 I went into the shop wanting a J45 and ended up liking the Martins way better. Walked out the next day (after sleeping on it) with a D28. Other than an LX1 travel guitar it’s my only acoustic.
I have a Takamine 12 string, a Martin D-35, a Suzuki Classical, two electrics, a cello, a trombone, a flute, a clarinet, a trumpet, an oboe, and keyboard synths... I play them all.
Iconic name, legendary sound, used by some of the greatest artists, holds its value, impresses other people, and easier to sell than other guitars. However, I did not say it is a better guitar than other brands, but it may be.
Martin set the standard for flat top steel string guitars. If ain’t broke don’t fix it. The true magic happens when you play the 50year old plus martins. Those will shake you to your core
Two years ago, looking to step up from my Seagull Entourage, I sat in the "upscale" room at Milano Music (here in AZ) and I played about eight different guitars. A few Martins, a few Taylors, a couple others. I bought a Martin D13e, because it seemed to me to be very balanced in tone, and perfectly compensated (easy to tune up, with no sour harmonics as I moved the capo around). The comparable Taylors were good, but seemed a bit too bright. For the money, the Martin is a great value. Now, no regrets whatsoever.
I always wanted a Martin because of my heroes,and btw Neil Young is one of them lol,but the American made models cost a left nut 😡.So when I had some money to burn I went to the Guitar Emporium when they were still over on Bardstown Road in Louisville KY,got a mahogany DX1E with a hard shell case,and it has been my main guitar ever since 😌.Hopefully in the future I can upgrade to a Road Series model.
Mike, I would love to see you take on Fender acoustasonic. I've heard both good and less-favourable things about them and it would be cool to hear your opinion.
Just snagged one yesterday, the American telecaster acoustasonic. It is a neat guitar, that purists love to hate. I paid almost 50% less than it costs new from a guy on FB and it doesn't have a mark on it. Adding it to my dads collection for his 71st birthday soon.
I haven't found a single Martin that has a neck I like. Most comfortable neck I've ever played has been a $300 dollar Ibanez ac240 surprisingly. Not saying it's a better guitar but it feels better to me. I would love a Martin. Hope to find one that has what I want eventually.
Guitar players choose whatever guitar they connect with at any given time. This is always changing. A particular guitar brand doesn't determine a guitar player.
What picks are you using Mike? Enjoy your chat man, Ive a HD-28 already that I traded in my Taylor 818e to get. Love it so much - some nights just can't put it down! I like your strumming sound which was why Im wondering about picks - they bring a lot - Im using a Wegen pick at the moment. Cheers man!
Years ago I was looking for a descent facsimile of a Martin, (something above the very inexpensive, campfire, beginner acoustics I'd had up until then) and I bought a Recording King RD-06M; essentially a poorman's D-18, and a guitar I've kept over other Dreadnoughts in a similar price range. Fast forward to a couple of years ago, and I started reading really great things about the Martin guitars, (as a non-gigging, perpetual novice I personally can't justify the $krilla for a domestic Martin) being made in Mexico, and I came across the Martin Dreadnought Jr. I have a Recording King parlor guitar which I like for noodling in my living room, and I had owned and tried some OO, and OOO guitars, but always wished they had a bit more bottom end. I've found the Martin Dreadnought Jr to be the perfect guitar to meet that desire. It gets at keast 3/4 of the bottom end of a Dread, but with the comfort of something more akin to OO, OOO, parlors.
Bought my first Martin in 1968, it was a D35. I was inspired as a lad(hehe) by the Beatles who played D28's. (Paul and John) The Martin has a distinct sound that you can easily recognize
anywhere in a recording. It's a sound, vibe history you name it. I'm 70 and I still play my beautiful Martins everyday and use them extensively for recording. Nice video Mike. You might consider
doing a video about famous guitarists playing their favorite Martin guitars. Great job!!
This man only has guitar stories. Not that im complaining
That's the reason why I like his chanel, not everything needs to be 'put your finger here' tutorial.
@@tweener9779 ye i fw it
Hahahaha😂😂😂😂
Hahahaha😂😂😂😂
You don't know him very well really.
I’ve had 3 Taylor’s and I loved them all. I stacked up an 000-15m vs Taylor’s top comparable price point mahogany guitars and it sounded amazing. My first Martin, happy to have it, sounds so warm.
The 00015m, my dream guitar
Yep I have a 000-15M, it was my dream guitar and eventually I bought one.
Buying a 000-15m was one of the best decisions I ever made. It clearly needs a setup after 3 years but it’s so well made that I still enjoy playing it.
@@LalairuI bought one a few years ago before the prices shot up. I can’t believe they’re $1700 now. It’s a good guitar. It’s the only acoustic I’ve bought that I haven’t sold/traded. Definitely save up for one if you can. Look around on the used market.
@@karmatologist you don't see them very often in Spain, and they are still expensive second hand in Europe. It's crazy. I've been playing guitar for about 15 years and the prices are impossible right now. You pay almost the same for a MIM standard tele and USA made one...
Enjoy the journey. I'm 73, fortunate to have owned Taylor, Bourgeois and Collings, but my heart belongs to Martin, with over 30 guitars from Nazareth over the decades. There are so many models and tonewoods, I retired with my 4 lifetime favorites: a Custom Shop OM-28 (Alpine over Madagascar), an OM-18 Authentic (Adirondack over Mahogany), an OM-45 TB (curly Engelmann over flamed Tasmanian Blackwood) and Custom Shop 00-42 (Premium Adirondack over Premium Madagascar). At one point years ago I had 5 Martins with 10 different tone woods, and 3 body sizes, love the sonic differences. Have fun playing, music is the best................
Blessings to you sir! 👍🏾
How to say you're rich without saying it :D
Spoken like a true modern “child” ..I’m the same age and am in the same boat…over the years of trading up saving for the next dream guitar you acquire things you’ve always wanted…you don’t know him . Stop and think before hammering out stupid statements like this
@@vaughnmaurt5013 ?
I got my great uncle’s Martin d28 when he passed away a few years ago & let me tell you, the sound of strumming some loud & full cowboy chords on a Martin cannot be beat!
D20 I’ve never seen one. I bet it’s awesome
@@carsonforrester3061 it is!
All original, near mint condition 1972 Martin D-18. Handed down to me from my father as a graduation gift.Without a doubt one the BEST guitars I have EVER played.
True class by dad.
Martin tone is just magical. It touches us in a deep soulful way. It’s rich and powerful and balanced. I’ve had Taylors and now I have two Martins. I appreciate the journey and what I have now. I’m also grateful for the work that was put into the instruments by people I will never meet, but their work is a beautiful gift. Thank you for your review. Well done, and tasteful.
taylors are great, just not my taste. plus i think if you play a taylor you have to play worship, let's not forget the capo!
I've played many different makes and models over the years as a solo acoustic guy, but a high end Martin guitar sounds like nothing else on earth. My D41 amber is just gorgeous and sounds like 6 strings worth of heaven.
Just bought the D41 ambertone, beatufil look and sound.
I've been playing since 1967 and have never owned a Martin. Once, back in fall of 2010 I took an OM off the rack and played a few chords on it. It was a high-end piece and the tone was worthy of the price tag. I quickly put it back, as Murphy and his Laws are very fond of me. That's my sole experience playing a Martin, other than the OM Sigma I owned in the 70s.
My dad has a 70s era Sigma. He has been playing it since I was a kid in the 80s. I bought him a new Martin D-41 for his 70th birthday last year. Cost me a fortune, but watching him play it is worth it. The sound from that Martin is unreal.
Man mine needs a major reno due to buzz but that old sigma has something to it...
I wanted a small guitar that sounds great, is sturdy, and portable. When I saw the Martin LX1E I was doubtful at first. But then I saw Ed Sheeran used one for many years and there were a lot of positive reviews.
Now it is one of my most played guitars. I am a primary school teacher that visits a lot of schools, and I take the Martin to every school I visit. Kids love the guitar and it is a great thing to bond over.
Agreed - I have one too and absolutely love it. Sounds amazing for a small travel guitar!
That's fantastic exposing kids to guitar music. Yes!!
It was one of my very first Martin's. A great guitar to learn on with the smaller scale. And sounds amazing for such a small guitar!
I recently got my first Martin, an older 000-15S, which is all mahogany and a 12-fretter with a slotted headstock. I love it! I also picked up a Gibson J35 last year. After 30 years of playing, I finally have nice acoustic guitars!
I’m 63, been playing 40 yrs. Got real serious practicing and jamming with others constantly about 3 yrs ago. Always wanted a great Taylor and demo’d a 510 for three weeks. Went to buy it from a buddy who also had a Martin D18 for sale. One strum and that Taylor was cast aside. 1 yr later I was in a high end guitar store and played almost every guitar in their high end room. Ended up with a 2019 Martin D28 Authentic 1937 with the big baseball bat neck. It has the biggest baddest Martin tone that I’ve ever heard! It took many months to get used to that neck but now it just feels great. I had it setup to my preferences.
My first nice guitar was a Taylor 314ce. I legit loved that guitar. But then one day I made the mistake of picking up a Martin D18 in a guitar store and couldn’t put it down. Ended up buying it a week later because I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I eventually sold my Taylor because it just never got played and I haven’t looked back.
Man, I’m at a different moment of the same story: bought a 314CE an year ago and started feeling that I need something different. Went to the store, tested a 000-28 for a looong time and can’t stop thinking about it for a week. Maybe I should go forward and bring that home 🙃
@@adalbertoferreira7309Taylor is better in my opinion bro, my guitar is my favorite I’ve ever played. 1996 814c with added electronics, recently got it setup with dadario xs strings, 11/10.
I've been an Ovation guitar fan for decades!! Then in Sept. 2019 I tried out a triple 0 cut-away Martin, and bought it. I have a Martin D-35 currently on lay-away. I love the look and sound of Martins. Your playing is really nice!
I owned a D28 for a few years and loved it's big sound. At a guitar camp, where I was playing all day, I realized how uncomfortable the big body was to play. I began putting together a criteria of what I wanted in a smaller body guitar: rosewood, 1 3/4 nut, short scale, and scalloped bracing. The perfect fit to my criteria was the OOO28 EC. I found a used one and after a period of adjustment I fell in love with it. My only mistake was, I sold the D28. Maybe someday I'll get an HD28 (has much bigger sound than the D28) but I'll have to sell a couple of guitars before that happens.
I thought the only difference in the HD and D 28 is the HD is a herringbone binding
@@carsonforrester3061 The internal bracing is different hence the difference in sound. The D28 has tapered bracing (heavy) and the HD 28 has scalloped bracing which why it has the canon like sound. First time I played an HD28, when I owned the D28, the difference was overwhelming, not at all subtle.
If you are anywhere Nazareth Pennsylvania, the Martin factory tour and museum is worth stopping for. Awesome!
I inherited my grandfather’s old Martin Sigma DR-41. It may be from Martin’s discontinued budget line but it’s the best acoustic I have ever heard or played.
I’ve had a GPCPA-4 Shaded for almost a decade now and recently got a OOO-28. I just played them in the store and was floored by the low end, clarity, and warmth they have. I have a couple Taylors as well, but with the recent OOO-28 purchase, I think I’ve cemented myself as a Martin guy. I play fingerstyle folk kinda stuff and Martin just does that so well
I played a 70’s Sigma(by Martin) D-28 that I kind of permanently borrowed from my dad for years, then 2 years ago I finally bought a used 2016 Martin HD-28V that I got a good deal on Reverb. I noticed immediately that it was a step up from the Sigma, but still wasn’t really blown away by the sound. For the price I was thinking what’s the big deal with Martin’s? I was starting to wonder if I got a dud and that’s why the dude sold it. I’ve played the crap out of it for these last 2 years and the first year I had a Tonerite plugged in and attached to it so it was vibrating like it was being played 24-7 when I wasn’t playing it. I would even capo it a different fret each week and play chords everywhere on the neck. It’s all really paid off, the guitar just needed to be played and opened up. It just sings now and has some crazy sustain with notes that just keep going. I totally love it now and I’ve got the 12 string version on my wish list lol
Edit: btw since I got my Martin I cleaned up my dad’s old Sigma D-28, put new strings on it and gave it back to my dad. He’s now getting back into guitar playing again lol
Great story man
I have a J-15, 000-15, and a special 16. They’re each special guitar. They’re all so inspiring to play!
Great video and love to see your energy about music and the guitar. I bought my first Martin guitar in 1976. What sold me was the sound, particularly the bass, and the value. I've been up to 12 Martin guitars recently in my collection and recently have sold off 6 at way more than I payed for them. Now I plan on selling 4 more and only keeping my 12 string and one six string guitar. These last handful are all vintage and from the 60's and are worth a small fortune- but the sound these guitars product is off the charts! I can't play them all and hope others will enjoy them as much as I have. So, that is the second biggest reason to buy a Vintage Martin, is the resale value. But when it gets right down to it, no matter what the make or model, when you pick it up for the first time and start playing it - you will know if its the right one or not.
I love hearing guitarists just chatting about guitars! I have 3 Martins (HD28, D-Jr 10E, and LX1-E) and absolutely love them. I originally wanted a Martin because it seemed as though all of the great musicians I absolutely love all play Martins! (At least, when playing an acoustic guitar). I figured - if good enough for them, how could I go wrong. I love that ‘warm’ deep tone that only a Martin seems to have. Absolutely no regrets!
Mike, always love your approach to guitars and music. Technical excellence with wonderful humor.
I owned a D16e for a time. Then I got my hands on a OMC16e in Ovangkol and immediately traded D16 on the OMC. That particular wood has a more balanced tone than any guitar I have ever played. It is sometimes compared with Koa in tone. Multiple times I have had other musicians make comments about that aspect of it. I have other dreads' and had acquired a D35 following the D16 but of all my guitars the OMC is the favorite by far. Until I picked it up I did not know there was such a big hole in my guitar heart. I will do my damndest to wear it out before I die, and I am already old. I like her so much she was given a name.
Easily one of my favorite channels, keep it up!
OMG! Several times I actually burst out laughing! I have 3 Martins and each has a different sound. But the very entertaining and humorous way you presented it was priceless. You have such a humorous presentation I can’t believe it😂
Used to play electric but now i play a Epiphone Texan USA made factory strings going on 3 years sounds like bliss in mud i am intrigued but low on funds maybe one day. i just love playing. Your enthusiasm hits i appreciate.
My first good acoustic was a Martin OMC 1e... I used that from the time I was 15 till I was 24. Then I bought a D28. Changed my life. So much depth and fullness. Playing that D28 4-5 nights a week for 3 years now never gets old. I've always loved Martins.. but also really like Eastmans as well. I have an Eastman e10ss (Gibson j45 clone) that I use for rhythm tracks. Great quality for the money. Great video dude!
Oh man acoustics are like new but not new to me. I’ve always played electric and I’ve played acoustic but never owned one. When I did need to purchase one I needed to know why I was going to purchase one because I was going to drop bank on it. I chose a Takamine off their legacy line since I play a lot of Mexican style music (I’m Mexican lol) and it’s versatile enough to play any other genre since I play a lot of country too. I’m loving the 12 string sound as well
I love your energy, and enjoy these stories of your guitar journeys! I was recently impressed with a Martin GPC-X2E at my local shop. I had no idea Martin made such an affordable player's guitar, or that it would sound so good compared to other cutaway electro'coustics at similar prices. I could see having that GPC, or a DC-X2E in my future😊
Once i played a D28 i was hooked forever. As young man without much money it drove me crazy. I tried the cheaper ones made in Mexico and it just didnt cut it. But eventually i had enough to buy one and ever since then ive had nothing but D28 models and a Gibson. Im still poor but if im gonna play guitar i gotta have a solid wood Martin or Gibson. Its worth it to me. The history, nalstalgia, made in usa, means something to me too. They have that antique front porch sound that i love. A HD28 and Gibson J45 will last me the rest of my life so money well spent. Yes they are expensive but you end up spending more when buying multiple guitars over the years. I just bought my 2 dream guitars and got it overwith. Ill never need to spend another dime on guitars again. It all evens out
Martin 2008 D-28 Marquis had all my wants in 1 guitar. Love it, play it every day.
When I went looking for a Martin I decided I wanted a small body so I looked at 00's. I found a shop that had 3. A 28, a 18 and a 15. After playing them for about an hour I made my choice, the 00-15 14 fret. It is darker in tone than both the 18 and 28, mostly due to wood choices ( both rosewood with spruce top ), while the 15 is all mahogany except for the fretboard. That was 18 years ago and I've been happy with my choice ever since.
Same here. I was sure I wanted a spruce top 21 series but tried the om-15 out on a whim … never looked back. That dark warm woody tone is just unbeatable at any price.
Coming from left field here, but just picked up an Orangewood Oliver Live and it has become the prime staple to getting a first great sounding acoustic without breaking the bank.
I hate how infrequently UA-cam notifies me of your content. I enjoy your enthusiasm for your instrument more than any other content creator. I wish I had your dedication when I was a young man.
I’ve played a Hofner acoustic for 14 years now and as much as I love it and would never part with it, I’d also love to have a Martin to accompany it. I have a plastic back ovation which is a bit of a beater to take camping and for days down the beach too. Be a nice little trio.
Man you truly have a gift for telling stories, amazing!
That’s my dream guitar, a Martin D series.
A lot of people would tell this story as “oh a guy I knew in college had a Martin and I liked it” to find the profound in the mundane is a true talent and I really enjoy your videos
I'm a small dude, I use guitars live a lot but I also like having some warmth and roundness. I recently purchased the Martin DJR-10 and it's awesome! And it's also very cheap to be a full solid wood martin guitar! The tone is amazing!
Picked up a new Martin 3 months ago. I thought I’d end up with a D-28 or a 000-28. In the end, after a lot of playing, the OM-28 came home with me. Sounds epic!
I have one, amazing guitar. I just love it.
Smartest thing i did as a kid was save and get a D-28. Paid $1300 in 1995 and will have it till the day i die.. Sounds better every day..
Great vid! I bought an OM-28 Marquis in 2007. It is still the best sounding guitar I've ever played (and I've played a lot). It sounds great with super light or super heavy strings (although I've permanently settled on 10-47's now). It sounds great when either finger picked, strummed or to shred on through a vast array of genres. It handles whatever tuning I can throw at it and will remain in that tuning without slipping. With a decent mic in a studio you can pluck the A sting once and it will ring out for 30+ seconds. The intonation is phenomenal and the balance of high end and low end is spot on. It was a hefty investment at the time for me but since then I haven't had any need for another acoustic guitar for studio or general home use. I will have it until I die. Martin guitars at the entry level can feel a little underwhelming but once you start spending $3k+ in my opinion they far out perform everything else at a similar monetary value. Not to mention if you purchase one new in the USA it has a lifetime warranty.
I had wanted a Martin guitar since my late teens, but then college and marriage and kids went to the front of the line first. After all the kids were raised and were on their own, I came into possession of a beautiful Martin HD35 and later a 12 string D28. They were both worth the wait.
55 years old and finally have my first Martin - 1983 D-28. 3 months later, I bought a 1970 D12-35. Never assume Martin can't make a competitive, professional 12-string - thing sounds like a freaking orchestra.
Sir, you are really taking us on a wild journey. So excited for you, man.
I'm a guitar player who wouldn't buy another Martin if you paid me. I am left handed so my my guitars have to be made for me, for the majority of makers. I had a Martin made for me, when it came I saw that it was Made In mexico, says so on the label. The back of the neck is so rough that I could use it for an Emory board to file my nails. Cheap and deficient manufacturing in my opinion. I buy Taylors. My Taylor guitars are made in the USA, says so on the label. Excellent quality, I love my Taylors. The K26ce is the most beautiful guitar I have ever played.
I'm basically a chord strummer and I like my Martin dread for that, but I also have a 000 and OM because in some settings (like playing along with my wife who plays piano) the dreadnought can be a bit overwhelming and the more balanced sound of an OM is more appropriate. And sometimes I just want to play a smaller body guitar because it's comfortable.
I play several dreads and early this year got a OMC16e Ovangkol. It quickly became my favorite general purpose 6 string for the simple reason is it is compact, has sweet warm balanced tone and is one of the few Martins I have seen with a beautiful brown sunburst top. If I am not playing a 12 string, she is on my lap 90% of the rest of the time. The only similar guitar I have is a '63 Epiphone Cabellero all mahogany guitar, Epiphone's copy of the Gibson LGO model. Originally an $80 'student' guitar but all solid wood with ladder bracing and sounds nice after 60 years of age.
I usually play 12 strings on stage but if not it is my OMC now.
I got an SC 13 because I play live and mostly solo plugged into a voicelive 3 and an HX stomp. It is one of the most versatile stage acoustic guitars you can have. But at home when I’m just jamming out, I play Gibson J 200. Great video, Mike.
And now that you have played a Martin, now its time to play a Breedlove Oregon Myrtlewood Concerto model.
I had a Martin, a very high end Martin, and I developed a love-hate relationship very quickly. Was glad that I was able to get my money back when I sold it. Bought my Breedlove and have never looked back.
I brought a M36 recently and love it for its versatility. It is a stablemate for my huge toned J16 12 string and my 30 year old Taylor 510 dreadnought. All are fantastic guitars in their own way.
Mike I love your videos, good Sir. Educational without any snobbery: your nice-ness shines through. Clearly, 100% somebody we’d love hang out with & jam & talk about equipment with.
I'm an old fart (over 70) and about 25 years ago I was thinking I'd like to have a Martin D-18 maybe. I couldn't bring myself to pull the trigger because I didn't want to spend that much money on wood & wire. So in 2000 for our 25th anniversary my wife gave me a Martin D-35. OMG!! 😊😊 I just love that guitar and the woman who gave it to me. So Now I'm starting to talk to her about Taylor... Cant wait to see if she does it again. It's not going to replace my D-35 but I think they can share the room with each other & make nice. 😊 Thanks for such an enjoyable site to visit, Mike.
Just got my first Martin a D15E and I'm 69 years old. Was worth the wait. The Martin tone is unbelievable!
I have 3 Martins. The last one is my favorite. It’s an OM-18 Authentic 1933. After 3 right shoulder/arm surgeries, I needed something smaller than a D. I fell in love with the feel and the sound.
The first nice guitar that I bought myself was a Martin GPC 16-e with mahogany back and sides and I wanted a comfortable guitar with a smooth and well-rounded sound that had access to the upper frets for those few and far between occasions where I’m trying to get up there. The large bout gives it a full and deep sound and you still get good clarity up in the high notes! I’m just absolutely stoked with it! I do put elixirs on it, so that does add in a little extra brightness.
Love Martin guitars. My first was a 0015m all mahogany that I sadly sold a few years back. Recently got my dream Ceo-7 though and will never sell! Such a joy to play with such a big warm sound
Right on man! I just purchased an amberburst D-18 last week and regret nothing.
Great story brother.
I've been a Gibson guy but these Martins sound so good and play so easy...
I used to play dreads but a bad fall over 9 years ago and it is hard on my shoulder to reach around that big box.
The nicest Martin I ever played was a Robbie Robertson 000-42 solid koa at Matin in 2012. It was a 12 fret and it was UTTERLY AMAZING !!!!!! But for $8000 + it should be Utterly Amazing ! Just beautiful !
Dad got me a Made in Mexico Martin for $500ish for my first guitar. Very low end oriented, almost too much but the salesman played a nasty run on it and strummed it a few times. I still have it and never will get rid of it. The spruce top aged ridiculously it was like parchment white when I got it and now it is a full tan. She’s simple but amazing. In comparison to a lot of guitars in the same budget, none of them had that low end. In the same vain, many of them were more versatile sounding as the mid range and high ends were clearer. Makes a mean strummer though. And since it has no lacquer or inlays, she’s a workhorse through and through. Gotta love it. Does make me want a more well rounded acoustic but something about it makes me never want to get another as the sentimental value of it will always make it my go to even if I had another acoustic
Bought my D-18 in '66, and I bought a used '73 D12-28 last year. Love 'em.
I'm a bluegrass/flatpick guitarist. I need a guitar that is big, warm with lots of midrange, and can punch out those single note runs as well as compete with banjo, mandolin and fiddle. That's why I have a 2015 Martin D28 Authentic 1937 and a 2012 Martin D18 Authentic 1937. At times I play solo (into a condenser mic) and I want as much sound as I can get. I also play bottleneck blues on National guitars and these Martins down need any sound adjustment when swapping between. I just love that big sound that roars, the power of the Madagascar Rosewood (D28) and the warmth & clarity of the Mahogany (D18). They're pricey, but you never regret the purchase because you do get what you pay for.
I started with a Takemine Dred then into a D16E Martin. Today I have a Martin D35 which is the most brilliant guitar I have ever played. I also have an Eastman E40OM which is nearly as brilliant, sounds like a Martin, and a lot less expensive. The 000 size of the OM just fits everything.
Great video and awesome playing. I really like the touch you have on the guitar.
I've been playing a Martin d35 I bought new in 1970. Incredible sound and playability. Also have a GPC35E that is amazing. My other steel string is a Maton te1. Great sound and plays like an electric even with 12s.
Just recently purchased a D18 and it just plain kicks ass. Played a $5000 Santa Cruz, Collings, and a Huss and dalton. The D18 still sounded better. Martin has really been stepping it up the past few years.
I wasnt here for a while, quality Improved. Congrats ❤💪🎸
I picked up a used 2014 -The Martin Custom GPCPA4 Rosewood Performing artist acoustic-electric guitar for about $1,000 shipped. It sounds fantastic for a beginner like me. So pleased with the ease and feel of the neck. Makes me want to pick it up every time I’m in the room. This is helpful to improve my playing and enjoyment of music. Thank you for keeping it real and entertaining me.
I basically have that same guitar with a different name and mahogany instead of rosewood- it’s an awesome guitar man!!!
I have the same guitar, and I love it.
I recently bought an M-36, it’s got the OM body shape and depth but’s as wide as their dreadnaught. It sounds great on fingerstyle and strumming, lots of mids, strong but not boomy bass. I’m really enjoying it. Although I wish I could have compared it to the OM-28 side by side, but the shop didn’t have any in stock
I have to admit that my next Martin would likely be a M-36. Just seems to be the intersection of great features. Maybe I should try one first? Ha, I’d have fly somewhere to do so.
Back in 2004, I bought a Martin DM Road Series through no logical reasoning whatsoever. I had met a guy in college that said Martin was the brand to get. I'm from Pennsylvania, Martin is from Pennsylvania... it made sense. When it was finally time for me to get an acoustic (after playing electric for more than 10 years), I ended up going to a Martin sponsored event at the local guitar shop and came home with the DM.
I knew nothing about acoustic guitars at the time. As the years passed, other acoustics that I tried were just... not like my DM. 19 years later, that DM stands toe to toe with brand new D-18s at nearly 4x the price. The difference is 90% cosmetic. I feel like I really lucked into something. I'm convinced their Road Series is still the best value out there.
There is nothing wrong with Gibsons or Taylors or Alvarez, or most other reputable brands. The right guitar will speak to you. Whatever makes you love music and love playing guitar, that's your instrument no matter what name is on the headstock. Don't let anyone tell you differently. But for me... I just happen to be a Martin lifer.
I had Those the 000-18 Martin from 2006, Sounds amazing! Love it, feels good ind the lap and easy to play!
I bought a D-16e about a year ago. It is the perfect acoustic to me. The width is perfect and the neck feels so good. Even my friends that aren’t Martin fans like that guitar. It just has a magic to me that I can’t explain unless you pick one up
I had this problem with a D-28 Marquis that I didn't buy. Years later, I'm out trying to hunt one down without spending too great a fortune. Every now and then, an instrument comes along that just speaks to you. It's different for everyone. It is to Martin's credit (and also Taylor, Gibson, Alvarez, etc) that so many people find that magic in their instruments.
I don't know September by whoever, but those chords in that pattern is definitely Every Rose Has It's Thorn by Poison.
New to the Martin family - bought 2 this year: 1983 D-28, 1970 D12-35. I've played Seagulls previously - a fabulous guitar for the money, but Seagull falls short - they all do.
When you go out and learn a song perfectly and it still doesn't sound quite right, I believe the gap can be bridged by buying one of these icons. That's what the pros use and that why no matter how well you learn a song, it won't ever get there...unless you have a Martin.
I had a Friends Dad who was a WWII Vet and bought a Martin guitar just before leaving to board a Navy Cruiser in the North Atlantic. He never learned how to play it. I remember going to there house and seeing it hang on the wall. At about 13 (1980) I finally got the nerve to ask Mr. P if I could borrow it to learn how to play guitar, of course he said yes! I quickly got my Mom to sign me up for guitar lessons. I went to the first class and the teacher took one look and told me I will never be able to play it. I know now that 30 years of hanging on the wall in a Air conditioned house took it’s toll on it. After a few months I gave it back and never asked for it again.
Then at the young age of 44 (2011) I bought a guitar a(Seagull S-6) and started to learn house to play. As I got better I dreamed of days past when I had that Martin in my hand. In 2014 I bought my first Martin and it was a HD-28 and love it. Then in 2017 bought a Martin JR, in 2021 in bought a SC-13E. And finally yesterday I finally bought my Dream guitar a 1967 D-28 which I will have in my possession tomorrow! CAN’T WAIT!!!!
Love the sounds of Martins and always will!!!
Awesome story! A Brazilian rosewood D-28 is one of my holy grail guitars
Great Video, as always. Just wanted to give you a friendly tip, if it's possible try to look into the camera lens, as a viewer it sometimes gets distracting when you look in the camera screen.
I throughly enjoyed your video. Well done
I tried D28 today and now I understand why everybody’s raving abt Martin guitars. Sounds really sweet and well rounded. I have Ovation Legend, Takamine and Zager 80CE. The Zager came the closest to Martin IMO. Now I’ll start saving up for a D28 or if funds permits a custom shop version.
Thank you for your thoughts Mr. Cole. I just bought a Martin GPEC11E AE. I'm a total beginner, but have been hard at it for a few months. I played my beginner series Fender so much the neck twisted beyond what it was worth to fix. I landed on my Martin because I asked the fat old guy in Guitar Center to show his best guitars around a thousand bucks that could compete with some higher end models. He'd been playing guitars longer than I've been alive, so his words had a lot of weight. Anyhow, the Martin was the clear winner after going through a bunch of brands and models.
I have a 1998 Martin SPD-16T and as much as I love that guitar, my go-to is my 2013 Collings D2HA. It is built to absolute perfection and the tone is unmatched by any other brand.
Excellent video, and very well done. I have Taylors and Yamahas, definitely going to check out the Martin line.
You’ve got a great spirit, man. Appreciate you!
My 2019 Martin D Special is all natural mahogany, no laminate and no electronics. That is my criteria for a great songwriter setup. All acoustic guitar's electronics are different and Not One is impressive to my ear! I luv my Martin special
Great video. Nothing beats the sound of a Martin.
Love the D-16 e, I mean really any reliable guitar with Indian rosewood and spruce top is gonna sound phenomenal, in my opinion, I love that combo but Martins just have a sound like no other....Great Video
I bought a slope shoulder Street Master because I couldn't decide between a J45 or a D15M.
Was playing an Epiphone acoustic from the 80s for ages. In 2008 I went into the shop wanting a J45 and ended up liking the Martins way better. Walked out the next day (after sleeping on it) with a D28. Other than an LX1 travel guitar it’s my only acoustic.
My dream guitar... But as of now, can't really afford it. I know one of these days I will have one... More power man!!!
I have a Takamine 12 string, a Martin D-35, a Suzuki Classical, two electrics, a cello, a trombone, a flute, a clarinet, a trumpet, an oboe, and keyboard synths... I play them all.
Iconic name, legendary sound, used by some of the greatest artists, holds its value, impresses other people, and easier to sell than other guitars. However, I did not say it is a better guitar than other brands, but it may be.
Been waiting on this one.
Martin set the standard for flat top steel string guitars. If ain’t broke don’t fix it. The true magic happens when you play the 50year old plus martins. Those will shake you to your core
Two years ago, looking to step up from my Seagull Entourage, I sat in the "upscale" room at Milano Music (here in AZ) and I played about eight different guitars. A few Martins, a few Taylors, a couple others. I bought a Martin D13e, because it seemed to me to be very balanced in tone, and perfectly compensated (easy to tune up, with no sour harmonics as I moved the capo around). The comparable Taylors were good, but seemed a bit too bright. For the money, the Martin is a great value. Now, no regrets whatsoever.
I always wanted a Martin because of my heroes,and btw Neil Young is one of them lol,but the American made models cost a left nut 😡.So when I had some money to burn I went to the Guitar Emporium when they were still over on Bardstown Road in Louisville KY,got a mahogany DX1E with a hard shell case,and it has been my main guitar ever since 😌.Hopefully in the future I can upgrade to a Road Series model.
I have the 000-15 Martin All Mahogany (Lefty) going on 8 yrs and it’s tone sounds richer with aging.Cheers brother!
I just got my first Martin. It’s a lower end one but I’m stoked on it. It’s a oooxce Black
Mike, I would love to see you take on Fender acoustasonic. I've heard both good and less-favourable things about them and it would be cool to hear your opinion.
Just snagged one yesterday, the American telecaster acoustasonic. It is a neat guitar, that purists love to hate. I paid almost 50% less than it costs new from a guy on FB and it doesn't have a mark on it. Adding it to my dads collection for his 71st birthday soon.
@@analogdad9235 Plugged in it sounds good what I hear online. I can see why buskers and such find the very useful.
I haven't found a single Martin that has a neck I like. Most comfortable neck I've ever played has been a $300 dollar Ibanez ac240 surprisingly. Not saying it's a better guitar but it feels better to me. I would love a Martin. Hope to find one that has what I want eventually.
Guitar players choose whatever guitar they connect with at any given time. This is always changing. A particular guitar brand doesn't determine a guitar player.
What picks are you using Mike? Enjoy your chat man, Ive a HD-28 already that I traded in my Taylor 818e to get. Love it so much - some nights just can't put it down! I like your strumming sound which was why Im wondering about picks - they bring a lot - Im using a Wegen pick at the moment. Cheers man!
Years ago I was looking for a descent facsimile of a Martin, (something above the very inexpensive, campfire, beginner acoustics I'd had up until then) and I bought a Recording King RD-06M; essentially a poorman's D-18, and a guitar I've kept over other Dreadnoughts in a similar price range. Fast forward to a couple of years ago, and I started reading really great things about the Martin guitars, (as a non-gigging, perpetual novice I personally can't justify the $krilla for a domestic Martin) being made in Mexico, and I came across the Martin Dreadnought Jr. I have a Recording King parlor guitar which I like for noodling in my living room, and I had owned and tried some OO, and OOO guitars, but always wished they had a bit more bottom end. I've found the Martin Dreadnought Jr to be the perfect guitar to meet that desire. It gets at keast 3/4 of the bottom end of a Dread, but with the comfort of something more akin to OO, OOO, parlors.
I got my D45 because I fell in love with the sound.