Thanks for the review. As someone who has owned Martin's (currently) and Yamaha's (not at the moment) I think the Red Label Yamaha's are just brilliant, particularly considering the price difference with the Martin. I'd also mention that the L series Yamaha's are also amazing guitars and the equal of similarly priced Martins- and I'm not a Martin hater, I have one an love it but the Yamaha's are something special
I appreciate you watching Kevin! I still give the Martin the edge for straight acoustic, but the acoustic-electric sound is inspiring on the Yamaha, especially with the right adjustments.
I just gifted my grandson my 1968 Yamaha FG-300 red label. He’s very happy and I’m really happy that he’s playing guitar. Win win! I’d say it would hold its own with either one ☝️
Now THATS cool! I have a deep respect for older Yamaha's. My Dad played an old early 70's Yamaha for over 40 yrs until the fret board was so badly pitted it became too difficult to manage without a complete overhaul. But man If that guitar could talk. Entertained alot of folks in my neck of the woods. Sounded frikkin amazing. Nothin like hitting a nice fat g-run on that old bad boy
Thanks so much for the review. I've been searching for a demo video of the Yamaha with PB Strings and finally the UA-cam algorithm decided to let me discover your video 😁
Why buying a Martin, when you get the FSX5 with a great sound for less half the price? I like both of them but I‘m happy with my Yamaha 😊 Thanks for the review!
I have the Yamaha fs5 and I love it. Never played other high end guitars. I did notice quite easily that the Martin sounds better. I hear the melody strings ringing like a bell as some people say. I’m excited to play more high end guitars because If it can be better than my Yamaha FS5 - then I’m in for a treat
@@michaeldonaghey so I’ve gotten a martin. I’ve realized the difference is mostly the tone wood- rosewood is the difference. I think I’ll get the Yamaha LL36 next as I fell yamaha arguably makes the best guitar for the bucks. We see
On alot of these comparison videos people don't talk about intended use. Certain guitars like Yamahas and Matons are overbuilt compared to most Martins and Taylors. This typically gives a slightly better sound to the latter at the expense of durability and being more prone to being affected by temperature and humidity changes. This is why the former guitars are great for gigging and not as great for studio recording. Alot of boutique guitar makers are taking scalloped braces to the extremes for more airy sounds but take those out on the road in many environments and I'm sure you'll run into issues.
Well said; I love the sound of the Martin, and I know there are people who take Martins on the road, but I am also aware that it is more temperamental than the Yamaha when the weather changes.
Excellent comparison. I'm interested in the fingerpicking and I think the Martin is better but not by much. Considering the price the Yamaha is amazing value.
Thanks for checking it out! I do feel like the Martin sounds more vocal, where the Yamaha is a little metallic on the high strings, when playing straight acoustic. The EC is generally understood to be a great finger picking guitar. Yamaha plugged in will likely get the sound you want.
I did this comparison last Sunday at a jam. I had my Gretsch jumbo, played a Taylor and two Martins, (1 Martin belonged to a buddy who paid $3500 for it/big bucks) and then another friends Yamaha. The Yamaha blew them all away, even my Gretsch I hate to say. Wahi' Valleys
Thanks for watching Wahi' Valleys! My personal view between the two guitars is that the Martin sounds more vocal, especially between the 5th and 12th frets. The Yamaha sounds sharper, more like a dreadnought tone. Once the pickup comes into play, some of that difference goes away. I appreciate your take on it!
Nicely done, thanks I am a big fan of Yamaha, they have top quality at every price point. I think they have developed a great electronics. I also have 3 top end Martins which 2 of them have issues.
Thanks for watching Allen! This Martin has aged nicely and opened up in sound. The Yamaha electronics seem to be about as good as it gets for acoustic/electric.
I love the new yamaha FG5's, they are great sounding and the quality is amazing at the price point. I noticed when you were digging in on the Martin a little fret buzz?? Could be just a set-up issue but otherwise it sounded great. Thank you for the review!
just pickup a new yamaha ac3m love it ,have a few martin guitars one is a d 41 2015 , the binding is falling off the guitar ,you would think for 5000,00 that would not happen but martin went with a cheaper binding to save money ,Martin craftsmanship over the last 10 years has really gone down hill . d 41 was my dream guitar ,turned out to be a bad dream. can't go wrong with yamaha guitars they back their product to,unlike martin,
I love the Martins, but I own 4 Yamaha's. I'd love them both, for the money Yamaha wins. Even if I would spend the money for the Martin half the time I ask myself why cause the Yamahas I own are so good. It isn't going to make me play better, but Id still love it 🙂
Yamaha Red Labels are so underrated. I have an fs5 and it’s phenomenal. The sound is so balanced and the craftsmanship is literally perfect. I put an lr baggs Hifi in mine but should have got the fsx version. The atmosfeel pickup system seems fantastic.
@johnwayne3420see, lots of ppl think the same like me. Martin no longer the best acoustic in the market anymore. It is only the best if you looking for a specific tone, aka the famous Martin tone
No Yamaha doesn't blow the Martin away, it's not as dramatic as that But, it's at least the equal, I been playing Yamaha's for years, my first was a Yamaha Dynamic, steel strings early 60's ( I didn't know enough about Acoustic's then to compare it with any others) now I a Trans-acoustic, OH WOW, 😮😮😮
Outside of the tone that can’t be 100% imitated, owning a Martin is owning American legacy and ingenuity. I do own a D18, but I also own a PRS electric acoustic and a D28 style from a boutique builder. I use the PRS when plugged in at church and it sounds fabulous plugged in, otherwise I’m on the Martin most the time. The red label 5 models are built in Japan and are wonderful guitars especially if you are a working musician.
I have a 1968 FG 150 Which the FSX5 is paying homage to however the solid wood on the new ones takes the Yammy’s to Another level. I have a Martin 000 16sp which is extremely close to your EC. They are both quite different. I put brass pins in the 00016sp Brightens it up but the Yammy’s cut through mixes very well. Great review man!
@@ScottyGMusic it has a lot of mojo for sure. I made the mistake of selling a 1970 FG 180 and regretter it also once I found the 68 FG150 I had the neck reset and partially refret as well as rosewood pins installed. Sounds killer never letting it go lol
@@benjohnstonmentoring it's good to have a "lifetime guitar." And I would imagine you are the only one with an original Red Label at every jam session.
Thanks for the video 👍 I have a Martin DCPA4 and wanted a smaller body guitar. I just bought FSX5 a couple of weeks ago. This guitar is so good it is becoming my all around guitar.
@Daniel Seng I appreciate you saying it sounds good; both guitars have D'Addario Phosphor Bronze Light. I am not an endorser or anything, but I have enjoyed the consistency of D'Addario for all of my guitars, both acoustic and electric.
I have the Martin DCPA4 too, bought new in 2012 and have had many binding issues but still my go to until I get the FGX5. I'm sure it will be the Martin's replacement
Different strokes for different folks. Both sound good and different. I preferred the syrupy tone of the Clapton here. Also, I think the Yamaha is Mahogany and the Clapton is Rosewood. Btw, I own a YamLS, and these guys make a fantastic guitar that is under appreciated by acoustic players. This may keep the prices down and makes for an amazing deal for players with less cash on hand.
I prefer the Clapton as well. Tbh, I did not give much consideration to back and side wood. It does make a difference, but the greatest sounding acoustic I ever heard had a maple back and sides, which most would consider undesirable. I am sure you would agree that both rosewood and mahogany guitars can be elite when paired with the right top wood.
Interesting comparison , but the tone woods of these 2 are completely different. They both sound great respectfully.There is a 2,400.00 price difference between them as of 9/22. Both are worth having but the EC is a lot more guitar and a much higher quality guitar.
Nice review... I have Yamaha A1M for a month and I loved it its my workhorse for now... my ovation celebrity needs rest. Watched this video, now my dream guitar is Yamaha FSX5 😊👍. Greetings from Palawan, Philippines.
Thanks a lot Scotty for that video. If it is difficult to mic up the Martin, why did you not just have an L .R. Baggs Anthem or similar installed on the Martin? I am about to jump on the FSX5 but have never seen or played one in real life. I am somehow thinking that the ~ 4700$ that the 000-28 (normal, not EC) would cost here in Europe are a bit too steep compared to the $1800 for the Yamaha. One question though: How do you like the Yamaha neck shape? I understand the EC has the rare V-shape, but any idea how the Yamaha neck compares to the standard 000-28 neck? Thanks a lot.
I appreciate you watching. This may have been flawed thinking, but I avoided putting a pickup in the Martin because it might lower the value. I wouldn't rule out out completely. I think the active pickup on the Yamaha would still be easier to use live than a passive retrofit, but I have heard good things about the Anthem.
As far as the neck shape, I would describe the Yamaha as a softer V to maybe a C-shape. If you are accustomed to modern Fender electrics, it will fit like a glove.
The Martin guitar has a sweetness to it. So musical and resonant. The Yamaha is certainly a good guitar for the money but in this setting I believe the Martin just sounds better. I own both a nice Yamaha and Martin guitar so I do this test at home all the time!
Thank you for checking it out Jamie, and I appreciate your take on the sound difference! I can relate to the sweetness of the Martin that you are hearing. I think it is more vocal sounding, where the Yamaha is maybe sharper and more treble-sounding.
I've played a few of those Claptons. For the money, I've never been impressed. Yes, they are good guitars but not 4K good. On the other hand, the red labels are a steal for the quality you get.
I knew the first time I played my EC, that I would own it for the rest of my life. But everyone has a different experience, and I wholeheartedly agree with your take on the Yamaha. Thanks for watching!
With just the mic they both sound fine. I would give the edge to the Yamaha, somewhat surprisingly. I don't like the sound of pickups in acoustic guitars.
You're comparing a rosewood Martin with a mahogany Yamaha? Also how broken in is that Martin? Because when you compare a couple mahogany instruments of the same size... new from the factory, the red label Yamaha will blow away the Martin out of the box.... Unless you get a really high end Martin with torified wood.... And scalloped bracing. Just try it for yourself... It defies convention but is absolutely the case. And if you run the Yamaha electronics doing acoustic amp with some reverb... It's some of the best acoustic guitar electronics I've ever heard
I'm not sure about that; I'm keeping in mind that they are all the same size, not specific to string size. That is a possibility I hadn't thought about.
Compared to YAMAHA's FG series, Gibson j-45 and LG with mahogany side backs are good.If you compare with Martin in the same YAMAHA, the LL series is better.The YAMAHAFG series has succeeded in producing the deep and warm sound of mahogany, especially with the technology of the ARE top. And with the newly developed pickup, sound production has evolved. from🇯🇵🙇🏻♂️
i had a ooo28 ec it defiantly had that beautiful martin sound in places but on your test it sounds really thin in the top registar, the yam sounds more gutsy to my ears anyhow
When I listened back to this, I noticed that the Martin sounded more "alive" between the 5th and 12th frets. In person, the Martin has what I would describe as a shimmer when a note or chord is sustained. The Yamaha is more sterile when it comes to those situations. I still think the Yamaha is pretty good acoustically, but my preference is its acoustic/electric sound.
I would say it wasn't supposed to be fair; two very different price points. I will say, the Yamaha has been great and I definitely recommend, but the Martin is what I pick up at home 99% of the time.
@@ScottyGMusic Thank you! I use custom light gaugae for my steel string, but after watching your video i will try to use the .12 to .53 gauge. Think it sounds a lot puchier and full! Thanks man!
Every Martin I have owned fell apart. Every thing from the binding to cracks right down the middle of them. Yamahas don't do that and they sound better in my opinion.
I do not own any other acoustic guitars at the moment, but that is a worthwhile request. This video might be worth a watch: ua-cam.com/video/94gtQmlvRZ4/v-deo.html
I have a D28, a Taylor 310 and a Yamaha dread. The Yam. Gets used more, it was old when I got it 20 yrs ago. Nothing is loose, the strings get changed once in awhile, it’s resistant to humidity changes and it play wonderfully. The other two are just the biggest babies in that regard to any thing that blows by. Can’t hate the Yamaha.
Maybe, to a degree. The Martin is what I prefer, but there are plenty of commenters who prefer the Yamaha. I did not see a practical way to do a blind test, but I tried to keep it as objective as possible.
I’m not a fan of Martin; too expensive, too much hype. But at the risk of sounding weird, the sound seems to “ become acquainted”with the Martin woods insides before it sweetly moseys out. The Yamaha sounds a little brash and in your face by comparison . Liked your fingerstyle on the Martin. Glad you’re able to play out. I too was sidestepped by Covid. Stay healthy !
@Uke Studio It doesn't seem weird at all, it's actually a pretty good way to describe it. I noticed the direct recording on the Yamaha was a little harsh, but I am now using an amp in live situations, and that seems to help. I'm actually hoping to make a video about it soon. Thanks for watching!
I really like those Yamahas and want to get one. Only thing is Yamaha seems to have used lots of top wood cut off the quarter. You can tell by one side of the top looking much darker than the other.
I actually had not noticed this, but I looked at the Yamaha from several angles, and sometimes the top half looks darker in the light, and sometimes it's the bottom half. Neither guitar is bookmatched; each guitar has a top that looks like the two halves are from the same tree.
Both guitars have tight grain, with no knots; aesthetically, the lack of bookmatch does not take away from the look of the guitar, especially in real life. Both guitars have figure, though the Martin has more, with almost a tight flame top look. Check out an FSX5, I think you'll like it.
@@buzzardskeet My FGX5 has top with slanted grain at cross section, so not perfectly quartersawn, but overall top is very homogenous and grain pattern is extremly tight. It plays really well so I dont really care. They are probably saving their best tops fo L26/L36/L56 guitars :)
Iv’e moved to Yamaha recently because I prefer their sound to Martin, Taylor and Gibson. They are sooo underrated. I love these other guitars too but your Yamaha sounds better acoustically to my ears than your Martin. I still have three excellent Taylors but the Yamahas are equal or better and cost a lot less. I just wish they would move away from plastic pins and saddles.
On this occasion I can hear a flatness from the Yamaha compared to the Martin, but given the price difference and a few years to open up, the Yamaha is still a great acoustic.
OMG, of course the Martin sounds better- by far, actually. I love my own Yamaha, too, but those who prefer this one over the Martin or even think it’s close must have a case of wishful thinking. Then again, what are we listening to this video with- phone speakers, computer, earbuds, reference monitors…?
Thank you for watching! I also prefer the Martin; I tried to record this as true to life as possible, and certainly what we are listening with will affect it.
Not really as each person is an individual and may like the sound of one over the other blindfolded, but once you say the brand names biases spring up. It really depends on what you play, your hearing level and many other variables, not just the name brand.
@@Tigerex966 I appreciate this discussion, because we all have our own idea of how a guitar should sound. Using vowel sounds as example, I am looking for an "O" or "W" sound with a concert body, and the Yamaha is more of an "E" or "A" sound, and I'm hearing more of the "O/W" with the Martin. But both are quality instruments; hopefully I conveyed that the Martin has its environment where it shines, but you wouldn't bring a Stradivarius violin to play fiddle at the rodeo, so something a little more practical is in order for a lot of club dates and live situations.
I hadn't thought of it in those terms, but I could argue that the Yamaha, when played acoustically, has a treble that is constant; so it would be the mid and bass that you are controlling as a player.
Thanks for taking the time to make this!
G S, I appreciate you watching!
Very helpful comparison. That Martin sounds phenomenal! And clearly, both guitars are well-made and have their own niche
Thank you for watching! I definitely agree that both have their place.
Thanks for the review. As someone who has owned Martin's (currently) and Yamaha's (not at the moment) I think the Red Label Yamaha's are just brilliant, particularly considering the price difference with the Martin. I'd also mention that the L series Yamaha's are also amazing guitars and the equal of similarly priced Martins- and I'm not a Martin hater, I have one an love it but the Yamaha's are something special
I appreciate you watching Kevin! I still give the Martin the edge for straight acoustic, but the acoustic-electric sound is inspiring on the Yamaha, especially with the right adjustments.
I just gifted my grandson my 1968 Yamaha FG-300 red label. He’s very happy and I’m really happy that he’s playing guitar. Win win! I’d say it would hold its own with either one ☝️
Good to hear we have a new guitar player! I would be very interested in trying one of the original red labels.
Now THATS cool! I have a deep respect for older Yamaha's. My Dad played an old early 70's Yamaha for over 40 yrs until the fret board was so badly pitted it became too difficult to manage without a complete overhaul. But man If that guitar could talk. Entertained alot of folks in my neck of the woods. Sounded frikkin amazing. Nothin like hitting a nice fat g-run on that old bad boy
This Yamaha pickup is amazing, and I found his acoustic sound more vintage.
Thank you for checking it out Christian, I appreciate your take on the sound!
Thanks so much for the review. I've been searching for a demo video of the Yamaha with PB Strings and finally the UA-cam algorithm decided to let me discover your video 😁
Thank you for watching, and I'm glad you found something you were looking for!
Why buying a Martin, when you get the FSX5 with a great sound for less half the price? I like both of them but I‘m happy with my Yamaha 😊 Thanks for the review!
Thanks for watching!
I have the Yamaha fs5 and I love it. Never played other high end guitars.
I did notice quite easily that the Martin sounds better. I hear the melody strings ringing like a bell as some people say.
I’m excited to play more high end guitars because If it can be better than my Yamaha FS5 - then I’m in for a treat
You should try and get your hands on a Yamaha LS36.
@@michaeldonaghey will do
That is how I would describe the sound difference, as well. The Yamaha has been very functional, and the Martin is my favorite.
@@michaeldonagheynah try the new FG9😂
@@michaeldonaghey so I’ve gotten a martin. I’ve realized the difference is mostly the tone wood- rosewood is the difference.
I think I’ll get the Yamaha LL36 next as I fell yamaha arguably makes the best guitar for the bucks. We see
On alot of these comparison videos people don't talk about intended use. Certain guitars like Yamahas and Matons are overbuilt compared to most Martins and Taylors. This typically gives a slightly better sound to the latter at the expense of durability and being more prone to being affected by temperature and humidity changes. This is why the former guitars are great for gigging and not as great for studio recording. Alot of boutique guitar makers are taking scalloped braces to the extremes for more airy sounds but take those out on the road in many environments and I'm sure you'll run into issues.
Well said; I love the sound of the Martin, and I know there are people who take Martins on the road, but I am also aware that it is more temperamental than the Yamaha when the weather changes.
I had a great Martin D15M that I loved but sold it since it needed setup too often - temperamental
Well done review. Both guitars sound wonderful.
Thank you Joe, I appreciate you checking it out!
Excellent comparison. I'm interested in the fingerpicking and I think the Martin is better but not by much. Considering the price the Yamaha is amazing value.
Thanks for checking it out! I do feel like the Martin sounds more vocal, where the Yamaha is a little metallic on the high strings, when playing straight acoustic. The EC is generally understood to be a great finger picking guitar. Yamaha plugged in will likely get the sound you want.
@@theinnerdreamer7043 I haven't checked them out yet; I have read good things about them.
I did this comparison last Sunday at a jam. I had my Gretsch jumbo, played a Taylor and two Martins, (1 Martin belonged to a buddy who paid $3500 for it/big bucks) and then another friends Yamaha. The Yamaha blew them all away, even my Gretsch I hate to say. Wahi' Valleys
I'll take a Yamaha over Martin any day! Wahi' Valleys
Thanks for watching Wahi' Valleys! My personal view between the two guitars is that the Martin sounds more vocal, especially between the 5th and 12th frets. The Yamaha sounds sharper, more like a dreadnought tone. Once the pickup comes into play, some of that difference goes away. I appreciate your take on it!
Nicely done, thanks
I am a big fan of Yamaha, they have top quality at every price point. I think they have developed a great electronics.
I also have 3 top end Martins which 2 of them have issues.
Thanks for watching Allen! This Martin has aged nicely and opened up in sound. The Yamaha electronics seem to be about as good as it gets for acoustic/electric.
I love the new yamaha FG5's, they are great sounding and the quality is amazing at the price point. I noticed when you were digging in on the Martin a little fret buzz?? Could be just a set-up issue but otherwise it sounded great. Thank you for the review!
Thanks for watching! Both guitars are just a little unforgiving for anything that resembles hand vibrato on an electric.
just pickup a new yamaha ac3m love it ,have a few martin guitars one is a d 41 2015 , the binding is falling off the guitar ,you would think for 5000,00 that would not happen but martin went with a cheaper binding to save money ,Martin craftsmanship over the last 10 years has really gone down hill . d 41 was my dream guitar ,turned out to be a bad dream. can't go wrong with yamaha guitars they back their product to,unlike martin,
I love the Martins, but I own 4 Yamaha's. I'd love them both, for the money Yamaha wins. Even if I would spend the money for the Martin half the time I ask myself why cause the Yamahas I own are so good. It isn't going to make me play better, but Id still love it 🙂
I haven't found anything that really compares to Yamaha for the quality at that price range.
Wow, Yamaha for the win!
Thanks for checking it out, Jerry!
Yamaha Red Labels are so underrated. I have an fs5 and it’s phenomenal. The sound is so balanced and the craftsmanship is literally perfect.
I put an lr baggs Hifi in mine but should have got the fsx version. The atmosfeel pickup system seems fantastic.
I think the lr baggs is a legit setup, but the original Yamaha pickup has served me very well. Thanks for checking this out!
Yamaha blows Martin away in this one
Thanks for watching, I appreciate your take on it!
I agree.
@johnwayne3420see, lots of ppl think the same like me.
Martin no longer the best acoustic in the market anymore. It is only the best if you looking for a specific tone, aka the famous Martin tone
No Yamaha doesn't blow the Martin away, it's not as dramatic as that But, it's at least the equal, I been playing Yamaha's for years, my first was a Yamaha Dynamic, steel strings early 60's ( I didn't know enough about Acoustic's then to compare it with any others) now I a Trans-acoustic, OH WOW, 😮😮😮
Blows away? I found them equal. Which in itself is a great accomplishment by Yamaha.
Outside of the tone that can’t be 100% imitated, owning a Martin is owning American legacy and ingenuity. I do own a D18, but I also own a PRS electric acoustic and a D28 style from a boutique builder. I use the PRS when plugged in at church and it sounds fabulous plugged in, otherwise I’m on the Martin most the time. The red label 5 models are built in Japan and are wonderful guitars especially if you are a working musician.
Heck yeah JFJ, very well said! Thanks for watching.
I have a 1968 FG 150
Which the FSX5 is paying homage to however the solid wood on the new ones takes the Yammy’s to Another level. I have a Martin 000 16sp which is extremely close to your EC. They are both quite different. I put brass pins in the 00016sp Brightens it up but the Yammy’s cut through mixes very well. Great review man!
Thanks for watching Ben! I would love to try out one of the old FG's. This FSX5 is still getting a lot of performance use.
@@ScottyGMusic it has a lot of mojo for sure. I made the mistake of selling a 1970 FG 180 and regretter it also once I found the 68 FG150 I had the neck reset and partially refret as well as rosewood pins installed. Sounds killer never letting it go lol
@@benjohnstonmentoring it's good to have a "lifetime guitar." And I would imagine you are the only one with an original Red Label at every jam session.
Appreciate this review, I just played one of the Yamaha’s today and it was great!
Thank you for watching, glad you had a chance to try one out!
Thanks for the video 👍 I have a Martin DCPA4 and wanted a smaller body guitar. I just bought FSX5 a couple of weeks ago. This guitar is so good it is becoming my all around guitar.
Thanks for watching; good to hear that you are liking your FSX5!
@@ScottyGMusic Can I ask what kind of strings you have on your FSX5? It sounds amazing. Thank you.
@Daniel Seng I appreciate you saying it sounds good; both guitars have D'Addario Phosphor Bronze Light. I am not an endorser or anything, but I have enjoyed the consistency of D'Addario for all of my guitars, both acoustic and electric.
@@ScottyGMusic Thank you for getting back to me so quickly 😀
I have the Martin DCPA4 too, bought new in 2012 and have had many binding issues but still my go to until I get the FGX5. I'm sure it will be the Martin's replacement
Different strokes for different folks. Both sound good and different. I preferred the syrupy tone of the Clapton here. Also, I think the Yamaha is Mahogany and the Clapton is Rosewood. Btw, I own a YamLS, and these guys make a fantastic guitar that is under appreciated by acoustic players. This may keep the prices down and makes for an amazing deal for players with less cash on hand.
I prefer the Clapton as well. Tbh, I did not give much consideration to back and side wood. It does make a difference, but the greatest sounding acoustic I ever heard had a maple back and sides, which most would consider undesirable. I am sure you would agree that both rosewood and mahogany guitars can be elite when paired with the right top wood.
@@ScottyGMusic absolutely. They’re just different tone woods. Hog has more of a fundamental and RW tends to be more syrupy. Maple tends to be crisp.
I think that the Yamaha sounds great, just as good as the Martin. Maybe I want it to sound as good because of the price differential.
I still give the Martin the edge for sound. But plugged in, the Yamaha is great.
2:30 Martin mic
4:00 Yamaha mic
5:31 Yamaha pickup
Thanks for watching, and breaking down the time stamps.
@@ScottyGMusic Thank you for your vedio. I just bought a second hand fsx5 today. 😁
Great review thanks!
Thanks for checking it out! 🎶
Interesting comparison , but the tone woods of these 2 are completely different. They both sound great respectfully.There is a 2,400.00 price difference between them as of 9/22. Both are worth having but the EC is a lot more guitar and a much higher quality guitar.
Thank you David, and I agree with you. The EC to me is something special, acoustically, while the FSX5 is all about utility to me.
These red labels sound great to me. I’m trying to decide between a FS3 and a Eastman E1OM
Of course I have heard good things about Eastman, though I have never played one. The Yamaha has served me well, though. Thanks for watching!
Nice review... I have Yamaha A1M for a month and I loved it its my workhorse for now... my ovation celebrity needs rest. Watched this video, now my dream guitar is Yamaha FSX5 😊👍. Greetings from Palawan, Philippines.
Thanks for watching, Simon! I have tried a Yamaha A-series, and it was also a great guitar. Good to have Phillipines in the house!
Thanks a lot Scotty for that video. If it is difficult to mic up the Martin, why did you not just have an L .R. Baggs Anthem or similar installed on the Martin? I am about to jump on the FSX5 but have never seen or played one in real life. I am somehow thinking that the ~ 4700$ that the 000-28 (normal, not EC) would cost here in Europe are a bit too steep compared to the $1800 for the Yamaha. One question though: How do you like the Yamaha neck shape? I understand the EC has the rare V-shape, but any idea how the Yamaha neck compares to the standard 000-28 neck? Thanks a lot.
I appreciate you watching. This may have been flawed thinking, but I avoided putting a pickup in the Martin because it might lower the value. I wouldn't rule out out completely. I think the active pickup on the Yamaha would still be easier to use live than a passive retrofit, but I have heard good things about the Anthem.
As far as the neck shape, I would describe the Yamaha as a softer V to maybe a C-shape. If you are accustomed to modern Fender electrics, it will fit like a glove.
I use the IK Multimedia iRig Acoustic Stage Microphone Pickup System with my Martin 000-28EC, and it works very well.
I definitely plan to upgrade my mic setup at some point, for videos as well as live. I will check that one out.
The Martin guitar has a sweetness to it. So musical and resonant. The Yamaha is certainly a good guitar for the money but in this setting I believe the Martin just sounds better. I own both a nice Yamaha and Martin guitar so I do this test at home all the time!
Thank you for checking it out Jamie, and I appreciate your take on the sound difference! I can relate to the sweetness of the Martin that you are hearing. I think it is more vocal sounding, where the Yamaha is maybe sharper and more treble-sounding.
Thanks so much for the helpful 1 to 1 comparison. Great sound out of the Yamaha but in depth and richness it isn't a match for the Martin.
Thank you for watching, happy to have you on board!
I've played a few of those Claptons. For the money, I've never been impressed. Yes, they are good guitars but not 4K good. On the other hand, the red labels are a steal for the quality you get.
I knew the first time I played my EC, that I would own it for the rest of my life. But everyone has a different experience, and I wholeheartedly agree with your take on the Yamaha. Thanks for watching!
@@ScottyGMusic I mean, the EC is a really good guitar. I want to make that clear. I just think that $4K is just too much. 👍
@@echoguitarist Very possibly a once in a lifetime for me, to be sure.
You can eliminate the feedback issue with a good pre-amp.
I started using a Fishman Loudbox mini, and it really does even it out.
Yamaha by a long shot in this vid
Thank you for checking it out!
You guys should check out the Yam FG5 made in Japan against Martin D18.
I have heard the FG actually outshines the FS. Unfortunately I do not own an FG, but it would be a good comparison idea. Thanks for watching!
With just the mic they both sound fine. I would give the edge to the Yamaha, somewhat surprisingly. I don't like the sound of pickups in acoustic guitars.
I appreciate you checking it out and weighing in Bob!
You're comparing a rosewood Martin with a mahogany Yamaha? Also how broken in is that Martin? Because when you compare a couple mahogany instruments of the same size... new from the factory, the red label Yamaha will blow away the Martin out of the box.... Unless you get a really high end Martin with torified wood.... And scalloped bracing. Just try it for yourself... It defies convention but is absolutely the case. And if you run the Yamaha electronics doing acoustic amp with some reverb... It's some of the best acoustic guitar electronics I've ever heard
The Martin was about 9-10 years old at the time of filming. An acoustic amp does add a lot to the sound on the Yamaha.
Is the slot in the bridge allowing the strings to get a better contact onto the body of the guitar, therefore a better sound?
I'm not sure about that; I'm keeping in mind that they are all the same size, not specific to string size. That is a possibility I hadn't thought about.
The Yamaha sounds real good plugged in.
Thanks Larry! It ended up a little louder in the video; I think that guitar really shines when it is plugged in.
Compared to YAMAHA's FG series, Gibson j-45 and LG with mahogany side backs are good.If you compare with Martin in the same YAMAHA, the LL series is better.The YAMAHAFG series has succeeded in producing the deep and warm sound of mahogany, especially with the technology of the ARE top. And with the newly developed pickup, sound production has evolved. from🇯🇵🙇🏻♂️
Thanks for stopping by Iyori! One of my friends plays a J-45 all the time. The pickup on the Yamaha has been great.
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I support you to turn up the volume while micing the guitars next time! THX
I will, and I also plan to upgrade mics at some point. The Shure SM57 is fine for live sound, but very unforgiving for this sort of thing.
i had a ooo28 ec it defiantly had that beautiful martin sound in places but on your test it sounds really thin in the top registar, the yam sounds more gutsy to my ears anyhow
I personally prefer the high register on the Martin, but that is part of why this is fun; it falls differently on people's ears.
@@ScottyGMusic totally agreed 👍
Yamaha is a really good guitar. But your Martin. And just Martins in general, sound much better than Yamaha.. Not saying the Yamaha don't sound good.
Well said, thanks for watching!
The Martin has a very nice lively high end but a thumpy mid
I thought it was the room but it is not there in the Yamaha.
When I listened back to this, I noticed that the Martin sounded more "alive" between the 5th and 12th frets. In person, the Martin has what I would describe as a shimmer when a note or chord is sustained. The Yamaha is more sterile when it comes to those situations. I still think the Yamaha is pretty good acoustically, but my preference is its acoustic/electric sound.
Orange top socks are great!
Fs5 sounds more like a 18 series Martin to me. Not a super fair comparison. Yamaha sounds just as good as the Martin and the build quality is the same
I would say it wasn't supposed to be fair; two very different price points. I will say, the Yamaha has been great and I definitely recommend, but the Martin is what I pick up at home 99% of the time.
@@ScottyGMusic I mean, if I dropped 3 grand on a guitar I’d definitely pick that one up too regardless of how it sounds LOL
@james Doctor it genuinely sounds better to me, acoustically. On the flip side, the Yamaha makes it to all the gigs, so there's that.
The YAMAHA is nice, but the Martin has rich tònality and a baĺanced volume across the soundhole and i bet it is easy to play
The Martin has a more vocal sound, at least to my ear. And it does play very well.
Surprisingly, Yamaha is holding up against its expensive opponent!
It is a very good guitar, definitely holding its own. Thanks for watching!
If you like a little fuller sound on yamaha put 13-15 elixir sound superb.
Sounds like it could be worth a try; thanks for watching!
Nice video. What is the gauge of the strings you used?
Thank you! String gauge is .012"-.053"
@@ScottyGMusic thank you! I subscribed!
@@guitarintune408 much appreciated, I subscribed back. You have some good jazz sounds!
@@ScottyGMusic Thank you! I use custom light gaugae for my steel string, but after watching your video i will try to use the .12 to .53 gauge. Think it sounds a lot puchier and full! Thanks man!
Every Martin I have owned fell apart. Every thing from the binding to cracks right down the middle of them. Yamahas don't do that and they sound better in my opinion.
Sorry to hear; I have had the Martin for ten years with no issue. The Yamaha is pretty solid.
What if compare a same price Martin vs same price yamaha that will be a awesome comparison
I do not own any other acoustic guitars at the moment, but that is a worthwhile request. This video might be worth a watch: ua-cam.com/video/94gtQmlvRZ4/v-deo.html
@@ScottyGMusic ok thank you
I have a D28, a Taylor 310 and a Yamaha dread. The Yam. Gets used more, it was old when I got it 20 yrs ago. Nothing is loose, the strings get changed once in awhile, it’s resistant to humidity changes and it play wonderfully. The other two are just the biggest babies in that regard to any thing that blows by. Can’t hate the Yamaha.
The Yamaha is durable, and it is not temperamental. It just works. Thank you for watching!
People hear what they want to once they hear it’s a Martin.
Maybe, to a degree. The Martin is what I prefer, but there are plenty of commenters who prefer the Yamaha. I did not see a practical way to do a blind test, but I tried to keep it as objective as possible.
I’m not a fan of Martin; too expensive, too much hype. But at the risk of sounding weird, the sound seems to “ become acquainted”with the Martin woods insides before it sweetly moseys out. The Yamaha sounds a little brash and in your face by comparison . Liked your fingerstyle on the Martin. Glad you’re able to play out. I too was sidestepped by Covid. Stay healthy !
@Uke Studio It doesn't seem weird at all, it's actually a pretty good way to describe it. I noticed the direct recording on the Yamaha was a little harsh, but I am now using an amp in live situations, and that seems to help. I'm actually hoping to make a video about it soon. Thanks for watching!
I really like those Yamahas and want to get one. Only thing is Yamaha seems to have used lots of top wood cut off the quarter. You can tell by one side of the top looking much darker than the other.
I actually had not noticed this, but I looked at the Yamaha from several angles, and sometimes the top half looks darker in the light, and sometimes it's the bottom half. Neither guitar is bookmatched; each guitar has a top that looks like the two halves are from the same tree.
Both guitars have tight grain, with no knots; aesthetically, the lack of bookmatch does not take away from the look of the guitar, especially in real life. Both guitars have figure, though the Martin has more, with almost a tight flame top look. Check out an FSX5, I think you'll like it.
Scott, yeah that's how it looks when the wood isnt properly quarter sawn.
@@buzzardskeet My FGX5 has top with slanted grain at cross section, so not perfectly quartersawn, but overall top is very homogenous and grain pattern is extremly tight. It plays really well so I dont really care. They are probably saving their best tops fo L26/L36/L56 guitars :)
@@podfukobviously, with the same amount of money, your Taylor and Martin guitars have much worse top wood quality
The martin sounds so much better
Thank you Liam! I love the Martin; I consider it my lifetime guitar. The Yamaha is being used a lot at live shows right now.
Iv’e moved to Yamaha recently because I prefer their sound to Martin, Taylor and Gibson. They are sooo underrated. I love these other guitars too but your Yamaha sounds better acoustically to my ears than your Martin. I still have three excellent Taylors but the Yamahas are equal or better and cost a lot less. I just wish they would move away from plastic pins and saddles.
The Yamaha has been a very practical guitar. This one also came with wood pins, which is a fun upgrade!
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Yamaha sounds better
I appreciate the view, and thanks for sharing how you heard it, because that's what it's all about!
@@ScottyGMusic You're welcome Scotty G. Great video, thanks for sharing.
On this occasion I can hear a flatness from the Yamaha compared to the Martin, but given the price difference and a few years to open up, the Yamaha is still a great acoustic.
Thank you for the comment; that's what I hear, also. The strong point of the Yamaha's sound is heard when it is plugged in.
The Yamaha is better
The Yamaha is much more balanced, crisp, and clean.
Hi Showsee, thanks for watching! The Yamaha does seem to live more in the treble range.
Yamaha by a mile
Came for the guitars, stayed for the socks
Haha, I couldn't remember which ones I had on that day, had to look again. KTM orange!
Yamaha sound soo midrange to me .. bass strings sound bad
Martin have a soul and fuler sound
OMG, of course the Martin sounds better- by far, actually. I love my own Yamaha, too, but those who prefer this one over the Martin or even think it’s close must have a case of wishful thinking. Then again, what are we listening to this video with- phone speakers, computer, earbuds, reference monitors…?
Thank you for watching! I also prefer the Martin; I tried to record this as true to life as possible, and certainly what we are listening with will affect it.
Not really as each person is an individual and may like the sound of one over the other blindfolded, but once you say the brand names biases spring up.
It really depends on what you play, your hearing level and many other variables, not just the name brand.
@@Tigerex966 I appreciate this discussion, because we all have our own idea of how a guitar should sound. Using vowel sounds as example, I am looking for an "O" or "W" sound with a concert body, and the Yamaha is more of an "E" or "A" sound, and I'm hearing more of the "O/W" with the Martin. But both are quality instruments; hopefully I conveyed that the Martin has its environment where it shines, but you wouldn't bring a Stradivarius violin to play fiddle at the rodeo, so something a little more practical is in order for a lot of club dates and live situations.
Yamaha’s bass and midrange are more malleable.
I hadn't thought of it in those terms, but I could argue that the Yamaha, when played acoustically, has a treble that is constant; so it would be the mid and bass that you are controlling as a player.
Американцы ни когда не умели делать гитары!
I respectfully disagree, but thank you for watching!
Nice compare. Yamaha got eaten for lunch.
Thanks for watching!
Yam my Aha for me... and I don't know why.
Very cool Pip, I appreciate you watching!