D18- Balanced, woody, articulate D28- Balanced, sparkly, overtone rich HD28- Scooped, chimey, even more robust overtones D35- Growly, full, Dark D18 Deluxe- Dry, Mid push, articulate. For me, the D18 standard is the best all arounder, sounds like an old man telling you about his life around a camp fire.. The HD28 is a bit like drinking water from a fire hydrant, it quenches but it's sooo much. The d35 sounds sad, dark, and intense, like your heart has been shattered. The other two are lesser expressions of the 3 I mentioned. Just one mans opinion.
Without doubt the best on-line resource for guitar comparisons. An excellent balance of playing styles, helpful details in the comments and consistency throughout.
This should be required listening for anyone in the enviable position of deciding between these beautiful dreadnoughts. While this video helped reinforce my decision to buy a D-35 (after also playing the D-28 myself in the shop), you really can’t go wrong. Thank you for this really helpful comparison!
D18 is the best "good at all things but not too loud or overtone-centric" feel. Has the most heart. I played a D18 not long ago and it was an emotional connection. Try one !
Thanks for the affirmation! I bought an old one from an estate and had the neck reset. It is so pure I thought I’d done the wrong thing. It is such a clear and clean sound, I was fooled into thinking it was boring… It has definitely grown on me and will now stay with me.
Ian, your posts are so much appreciated. Thank you for the time and effort. Only problem I have from watching and listening to your playing, is it's hard to pick a guitar that sounds best. You could make the first guitar I got as a kid, a Sears Roebuck Harmony, sound great. This post is no exception, they all sound great, if I had to pick which one to buy, it would the the D-18, HD-28.
No winners or losers here, they all sound great! As for personal preference, I like the thinner bracing they use on the 35 series, that's why I own both a D-35 and an HD-35. It brings a warmth to fingerstyle that I prefer. Very nice comparison video Ian, thanks!
I have a HD-28 and D-18. The D-18 is more balanced and doesn't drown out vocals when recording, but it's a little bland for me. The HD-28 is louder and has more note clarity while also producing that signature Martin bass response. I might be trying out a D-28 after this video though.
I REALLY appreciate this. As a new owner of a D18 standard, I was second-guessing my choice. I felt maybe the HD28 would fit my playing style better. I hadn’t had a chance to play one locally. But I definitely think the D18 is perfect for me and my playing style at the time. They all have the fundamental “Martin” tone 🙌🏻
D18 (0:29) D28 (7:45) HD28 (14:04) D35 (20:54) D18 Modern Deluxe (27:50) - Just for me, when the faster strumming starts after letting chords ring out.
This is incredibly helpful thank you. I wish he would start off by strumming then do individual chords after. Being able hear the playing right away is best comparison for me.
Being the (very) proud owner of both a D18 and a hd28 I have to say they both have their ups and downs. To make it short I'd say that the d18 sounds better but the hd28 is way more comfortable to play. And to end it all, is it worth it? Well, I'm not a rich guy and in my opinion the novelty wears off in about a week or two and there you sit with a really expensive box of wood that really isn't all that more special than a yamaha for example. But it is an addictive feeling, I wouldn't even dare to try a d45, cause I know I would find a reason and a way to get one.
I appreciate your opinion and of the other response. Yet I am considering a new Martin and I have narrowed to three. I have not purchased a new one in nearly 20 years. It was a D18GE and I enjoy it daily but I want something smaller as I am older now.
@@sean7193 I am considering the CEO 7,but it is very similar to my D18GE. Both are Adirondack over mahogany. Also the 000 15sm or the new 00016 streetmaster with the VTS Adirondack top over East Indian rosewood.
Thank you for this excellent comparison. I’m new to guitars and just discovered your channel. I’m as impressed with your playing as I am those wonderful Martins. I won’t own a Martin until I’m good enough to honor it with decent playing. So for now it’s woodshed time with the Yamaha as my “Martin fund” slowly grows. I’ll keep fueling my passion with your videos.
I'm in the exact same boat right now! Playing a Yamaha and waiting to be good enough to own a Martin. I know I don't actually have to be good to own it, but it's just a motivational tool I'm using for myself.
Not only a well put together video, but to anyone trying to decide on a what I call “a working man’s or woman’s Martin guitar this is a great resource. Especially that you’re able to compare side by side by just hitting the time stamp. Well done!!
Finally went to Reno's and played some Martins. D18, D18 GE, HD28, HD35...all adirondak tops. I walked out with the D18 GE. They all sounded great but both D18s really hit my sweet spot. It was really close between the D18s but the GE had more depth and sustain plus it had Waverlys which are touted to last longer and hold tuning better. We'll see but this will one day belong to my son as an heirloom and that was a consideration for me. Ian, your videos meant quite a lot to me....they are the best on the net. Thanks buddy.
And I have an HD-28V which has great midrange like a D-18 but good bass like a D-28. Thick neck but not a problem once you get used to it. They’re all great guitars. Appreciate these videos and all of you who appreciate good guitars.
The way the HD-28 just lights up the overtones and undertones, is like a kaleidoscope. It's not focused at all nor should it try to be, because it's whimsically dancing all over the place as is its nature.
I’ve come to the conclusion in my love of these guitars, that there is no beneficial reason to try and determine which one sounds “the best.” Every time I’ve thought I’ve made that decision, the feeling of insulting any of the other dreadnaughts in the standard series line-up just makes me feel wrong about the “best one” choice, and it’s always a different model that I land on. Lol.
Have to be honest. In person, the D18 Modern Deluxe refines all that is beautiful and striking about the D18. It’s easily the loudest guitar on this list too, and 30% lighter. Love this video, though.
I have the hd-28 and d-35. If I had to chose it would be the one I'm playing at that moment. I almost bought the d-18 also but decided on a Gibson j-45 over the d-18 after playing both side by side.
Excellent video comparison...to my ears, the HD and D-35 take the prize...the D-35 is an amazing instrument...then take that to another level with the HD-28...Richer, brighter, louder...the 35 is a 10, and the HD-28 is a twelve...both top-shelf, but the 28 is juuuust a bit better sounding to me...........like - I'd love to be singing along with that 35, but I'd love to be PLAYING along with the 28... thanks
Best comparison on the net imho. I am about to buy a HD-28 but after watching the video i tend to the D-28. Just as warm but more balanced and rounded, tough i like the rich overtones and volume of the HD-28.
HD28 was my fav....followed by the D18 MD....All the others sucked.....😳😳.....Just kidding...all are fantastic...and the margins between are very small....I enjoy your vids....TY
I don't know if I should thank you... as now I feel like spending more than I can afford, and get one of these beauties :/ D28 without a doubt for me (through my sound system it sounds the best, but who knows in real life?)
I have a d-18 and love it. As I advance as a player and start doing more flatpicking, the d-28 appeals to me more and more. I live its focused and narrow sonic band, it's feels very pure to me, vs the scalloped varieties. Amazing as they are, I'm not sure Ian's test demos here really show what I'm looking for in a comparison. I'd love to see each instrument in a full out flatpicking solo scenario, accompanied by a bluegrass band. That's where I suspect the d-28 would shine.
Check out the new David Gilmour signature D-35 and you’ll get your answer. They’re three-piece mahogany back and mahogany sides. Albeit sinker mahogany.
@@G_Demolished Not really curious about the David Gilmour version, since i'm proudly holding a 1987 standard D-35.. anyway, just one of those regularly showing up signature models like the Johnny Cash version was.. don't really care about all those besides extra high pricing
Seems like the D18 and D28 would pair well together for an acoustic duo. As a d28 owner, I can see the attraction to the d18 as we'll, not better or worse, just different. That HD28 sucks though.
I haven't had the pleasure of playing a REAL Martin...but I did buy a couple of sigmas by Martin..dr1st and a dmi....and I am amazed at the sound they have...I paid 10 dollars for the dr1st and a 100 dollars for the dm1...the dr plays and sounds unbelievable...the dm has high action, but sounds incredible...I'm going to have to save for a REAL Martin....enjoyed your video.
This is essentially a comparison between Mahogany wood (D18) vs. Rosewood (D28, HD28, D35) dreadnought guitars, and within the Rosewood category, between a traditional 2-piece back design (D28, HD28) vs. a 3 piece back design (D35). Mahogany will always sound warmer in tone, whereas Rosewood will be brighter in tone. If the bracing on all of the guitars is the same, then the 3 piece back on the D-35 will usually produce an accentuated bass tone compared to a traditional 2 piece back.
the 3 piece back really has nothing to do with it , its minimal to the sound , The thinner bracing is what really does it , The D35 is non scalloped 1/4 inch while the 28s are 5/16 inch d 28 non scalloped hd scalloped , I own a D35 and love it
I love D18s and D28s, impossible to choose which is better - they're just different. The HD28 has a much more "modern" sound more akin to Taylor. Not a bad voice, but not how I want *my* Martin to sound, either.
Really GREAT playing- so good, I left it on without even noticing in the background while doing other work. Which Martin did you like- if you could have only 1. Maybe your top three in order please.
What a question! Out of these 4? Probably an HD-28.... What Martin do I actually have? A 000-18. I would say if you're looking for a dread, you can't go wrong with any of these. I'd probably go HD-28 or D-18 though...
@@ianmeadows6351 Thanks. I like the way the HD-28 looks and sounds too. I've heard the post 2012 D-18's are great and have the forward bracing. I also want one with the pup onboard...though I've heard the high end Takamine's sound even better plugged in. Since you are into acoustic- check out "Kotaro Oshio WINGS." One of the best acoustic pieces I have ever heard. He performs this on a Takamine.
@@ianmeadows6351 was the action or the neck width on the d18 not to your liking? It’s just i heard a couple of flubbed notes. Not to criticise! It was still a really nice performance!
Do not care much for the D18,D-28 is okay but my 1980 D-28 is the only martin guitar I've ever loved it's just one of the one in a million , I've had three D35s Four D28s with one being a Twelve string Binding came off three of my Martin's and I bought every one of them brand new,Also I had a D45 at one time and didn't care for it at all the twelve string I could never get it set up to play it ,That thing was impossible to fret it would kill your hands ,I now own Seven high end Taylor's and my 1980 I bought because it was in mint condition and it's a no hard hard guitar to find like this one ,I think new Martin guitars have lost really went down hill ,And from my playing guitars I think Taylor out plays and sounds better than Martin even my 1980 D-28 but it's the only martin I've ever loved
I must give you credit for effort... but the variables -- computer speakers, string gauges, et. al. -- make it virtually impossible to discern meaningful differences. That said, there are differences... but characterizing them in a meaningful comparative manner simply defies objective logic!
D18
Strumming 0:01 Flatpicking 2:10 Fingerpicking 3:48 Capo 5:52
D28
Strumming 7:17 Flatpicking 8:51 Fingerpicking 10:21 Capo 12:21
HD28
Strumming 13:40 Flatpicking 15:22 Fingerpicking 17:05 Capo 19:00
D35
Strumming 20:25 Flatpicking 22:24 Fingerpicking 24:00 Capo 25:59
D18 Modern Deluxe
Strumming 27:19 Flatpicking 29:12 Fingerpicking 30:43 Capo 32:46
Thanks
D18- Balanced, woody, articulate
D28- Balanced, sparkly, overtone rich
HD28- Scooped, chimey, even more robust overtones
D35- Growly, full, Dark
D18 Deluxe- Dry, Mid push, articulate.
For me, the D18 standard is the best all arounder, sounds like an old man telling you about his life around a camp fire.. The HD28 is a bit like drinking water from a fire hydrant, it quenches but it's sooo much. The d35 sounds sad, dark, and intense, like your heart has been shattered. The other two are lesser expressions of the 3 I mentioned. Just one mans opinion.
like your opinion!
That’s a great summation! I always thought that the D-35 sounded melancholic but never heard anyone else say it. It’s so true 👍🏻
Beautifully, poetically said; and seemingly accurate. Im looking into a HD-35.
@@wheninroamful appreciate it
Well articulated!
Without doubt the best on-line resource for guitar comparisons. An excellent balance of playing styles, helpful details in the comments and consistency throughout.
Thanks Andy. Going to try and keep it rolling along.
Tremendously helpful video. I love the way this was executed. The D-18 does it for me. If I could only buy and own one, it would be the standard D-18.
Thumbs up for the D-18 standard. Another fine comparison.
D18
Strumming 0:01 Flatpicking 2:10 Fingerpicking 3:48 Capo 5:52
D28
Strumming 7:17 Flatpicking 8:51 Fingerpicking 10:21 Capo 12:21
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This should be required listening for anyone in the enviable position of deciding between these beautiful dreadnoughts. While this video helped reinforce my decision to buy a D-35 (after also playing the D-28 myself in the shop), you really can’t go wrong. Thank you for this really helpful comparison!
D-18 sounds absolutely amazing!!!!
The clear winner.
that d18 sounds sooooooo good
So good
Amen and hallelujah! I need to change my strings.
D18 is the best "good at all things but not too loud or overtone-centric" feel. Has the most heart. I played a D18 not long ago and it was an emotional connection. Try one !
Thanks for the affirmation! I bought an old one from an estate and had the neck reset. It is so pure I thought I’d done the wrong thing. It is such a clear and clean sound, I was fooled into thinking it was boring… It has definitely grown on me and will now stay with me.
This is my favorite video the whole internet.
Best martin guitar demo comparison on TH-cam hands down. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
It just comes down to what you can afford and what you’ll drool over. I do own a D35 🖖
Heck yeah, D35's rule.
The Modern Delux D-18 sounds incredible to my ear.
Ian, your posts are so much appreciated. Thank you for the time and effort. Only problem I have from watching and listening to your playing, is it's hard to pick a guitar that sounds best. You could make the first guitar I got as a kid, a Sears Roebuck Harmony, sound great. This post is no exception, they all sound great, if I had to pick which one to buy, it would the the D-18, HD-28.
My first guitar was a Sears Roebuck Kimberly. Got it in 1967 for Christmas. Dark Sunburst color
I love your videos. Thank you for not talking.
Greg, thanks for your comment! I will do my best to not talk... no promises though.
@@ianmeadows6351 My wife sometimes says thank you for not talking. :)
No winners or losers here, they all sound great! As for personal preference, I like the thinner bracing they use on the 35 series, that's why I own both a D-35 and an HD-35. It brings a warmth to fingerstyle that I prefer. Very nice comparison video Ian, thanks!
I honestly think my d28 is the best sounding I’ve heard yet.
No! Mine is!
@@MtnLiner mine
I have a D18GE that will change all your thinking.
I have a HD-28 and D-18. The D-18 is more balanced and doesn't drown out vocals when recording, but it's a little bland for me. The HD-28 is louder and has more note clarity while also producing that signature Martin bass response. I might be trying out a D-28 after this video though.
I'm trying to choose between both you mentioned. Not sure if I want the HD28 to hide my vocals or the D-18 to try and make it sound better 😅
If I had lots of disposable income (in my dreams) I would have the D-18 for studio and the D-35 for the open stage. They both are beautiful sounding.
I'm with you there, Richard!
I REALLY appreciate this. As a new owner of a D18 standard, I was second-guessing my choice. I felt maybe the HD28 would fit my playing style better. I hadn’t had a chance to play one locally. But I definitely think the D18 is perfect for me and my playing style at the time. They all have the fundamental “Martin” tone 🙌🏻
I have a 1977 HD-28 and the sound from it is like thunder...really loud. It's a boomer. Plays great and so smooth.
D18 (0:29) D28 (7:45) HD28 (14:04) D35 (20:54) D18 Modern Deluxe (27:50) - Just for me, when the faster strumming starts after letting chords ring out.
This is incredibly helpful thank you. I wish he would start off by strumming then do individual chords after. Being able hear the playing right away is best comparison for me.
the hd 28 is warn yet boomy bass fills the room up more and crispy treble and best martin review I seen
Thanks Mitchell! I appreciate that my friend.
It seems like every Martin video you do keeps reaffirming my belief that the D18 and D35 are Martin's best dreadnoughts.
I have noticed the same thing in my experience. And I thought both of these ones were actually really nice fingerpickers. Really great.
Two good ones for sure Todd.
@@ianmeadows6351 Tell us your fav my man!
Being the (very) proud owner of both a D18 and a hd28 I have to say they both have their ups and downs. To make it short I'd say that the d18 sounds better but the hd28 is way more comfortable to play. And to end it all, is it worth it? Well, I'm not a rich guy and in my opinion the novelty wears off in about a week or two and there you sit with a really expensive box of wood that really isn't all that more special than a yamaha for example. But it is an addictive feeling, I wouldn't even dare to try a d45, cause I know I would find a reason and a way to get one.
disagree. A Martin will always be a Martin - while a Yamaha is great and all, but its still an imitation.
I appreciate your opinion and of the other response. Yet I am considering a new Martin and I have narrowed to three. I have not purchased a new one in nearly 20 years. It was a D18GE and I enjoy it daily but I want something smaller as I am older now.
@@johnwashburn3793 buy an OM. Perfect size.
@@sean7193 I am considering the CEO 7,but it is very similar to my D18GE. Both are Adirondack over mahogany. Also the 000 15sm or the new 00016 streetmaster with the VTS Adirondack top over East Indian rosewood.
@@sean7193 the CEO 7 is easy to look at as it has grown on me. My wife thinks I am crazy...and yes, probably.
They all sound great and share the same DNA. Basically it comes down to which one you like. Nice demo.
Exactly Steve! They're all good, it's just about which one you mesh with the best.
The D28 seems to be the loudest and brightest in the fingerstyle sections.
Great video, thanks for sharing. All four sound amazing but I enjoy the subtle differences between them. Guess I just need to own one of each😁
The sound of the D-35 is magical
Thank you for this excellent comparison. I’m new to guitars and just discovered your channel. I’m as impressed with your playing as I am those wonderful Martins.
I won’t own a Martin until I’m good enough to honor it with decent playing. So for now it’s woodshed time with the Yamaha as my “Martin fund” slowly grows. I’ll keep fueling my passion with your videos.
Sweet! Just keep at it and have fun. That's the idea. You'll be there in no time.
I'm in the exact same boat right now! Playing a Yamaha and waiting to be good enough to own a Martin. I know I don't actually have to be good to own it, but it's just a motivational tool I'm using for myself.
Awesome job in the market for a new one, but a hard decision they all sound good . Nothing sounds like Martins
Not only a well put together video, but to anyone trying to decide on a what I call “a working man’s or woman’s Martin guitar this is a great resource. Especially that you’re able to compare side by side by just hitting the time stamp. Well done!!
Thanks for reminding me that I am past due for a string change on my D18GE. Beautiful job, thank you.
Finally went to Reno's and played some Martins. D18, D18 GE, HD28, HD35...all adirondak tops. I walked out with the D18 GE. They all sounded great but both D18s really hit my sweet spot. It was really close between the D18s but the GE had more depth and sustain plus it had Waverlys which are touted to last longer and hold tuning better. We'll see but this will one day belong to my son as an heirloom and that was a consideration for me. Ian, your videos meant quite a lot to me....they are the best on the net. Thanks buddy.
I own a 2019 D18 AND 00018. LOVE THEM BOTH. And your vids BTW.
I have nice Martins and Taylors and I’m GAS’n for a D-18. What a wonderful tone.
Can't beat a good D-18 Brent. Thanks for tuning in.
And I have an HD-28V which has great midrange like a D-18 but good bass like a D-28. Thick neck but not a problem once you get used to it. They’re all great guitars. Appreciate these videos and all of you who appreciate good guitars.
I like D28 because it sounds more direct and pure
The way the HD-28 just lights up the overtones and undertones, is like a kaleidoscope. It's not focused at all nor should it try to be, because it's whimsically dancing all over the place as is its nature.
I’ve come to the conclusion in my love of these guitars, that there is no beneficial reason to try and determine which one sounds “the best.” Every time I’ve thought I’ve made that decision, the feeling of insulting any of the other dreadnaughts in the standard series line-up just makes me feel wrong about the “best one” choice, and it’s always a different model that I land on. Lol.
Have to be honest. In person, the D18 Modern Deluxe refines all that is beautiful and striking about the D18. It’s easily the loudest guitar on this list too, and 30% lighter. Love this video, though.
People don't talk about that but I love the d18's light weight.
I agree with a lot of the others D 18 std wow! Then the HD 28. Thank you Ian! Great comparison and always enjoy your great pick'in.
Thanks for stopping by my friend :)
thats the best d-18 i ever heard..they don't all sound like that,mostly sound thiner than a d-28 to me
I have the hd-28 and d-35. If I had to chose it would be the one I'm playing at that moment. I almost bought the d-18 also but decided on a Gibson j-45 over the d-18 after playing both side by side.
thanks ...I have a copy D28...am just starting out...nice to hear what its good sounds are.
welcome to the club....
Man that HD28 just howls. The HD28 and D18s best not even close
D35 of course
Excellent video comparison...to my ears, the HD and D-35 take the prize...the D-35 is an amazing instrument...then take that to another level with the HD-28...Richer, brighter, louder...the 35 is a 10, and the HD-28 is a twelve...both top-shelf, but the 28 is juuuust a bit better sounding to me...........like - I'd love to be singing along with that 35, but I'd love to be PLAYING along with the 28...
thanks
Best comparison on the net imho. I am about to buy a HD-28 but after watching the video i tend to the D-28. Just as warm but more balanced and rounded, tough i like the rich overtones and volume of the HD-28.
HD28 was my fav....followed by the D18 MD....All the others sucked.....😳😳.....Just kidding...all are fantastic...and the margins between are very small....I enjoy your vids....TY
I don't know if I should thank you... as now I feel like spending more than I can afford, and get one of these beauties :/ D28 without a doubt for me (through my sound system it sounds the best, but who knows in real life?)
Awesome video
They all are great. Having 28 and 35, prefer 35 if I have to choose one.
I hated 18s until right now. Damn you.
G Major is the Bomb
Nicely done
0:29 7:44 14:04 20:53 27:50
I have a d-18 and love it. As I advance as a player and start doing more flatpicking, the d-28 appeals to me more and more. I live its focused and narrow sonic band, it's feels very pure to me, vs the scalloped varieties. Amazing as they are, I'm not sure Ian's test demos here really show what I'm looking for in a comparison. I'd love to see each instrument in a full out flatpicking solo scenario, accompanied by a bluegrass band. That's where I suspect the d-28 would shine.
Between the D18 or D28. Have a 000-18 and want a deeper sound and I am a very hard picker and finger picker, probably the D28.
Thumbs up.. wonder how a D-18 with the construction of a D35 would sound (3-piece back)
Check out the new David Gilmour signature D-35 and you’ll get your answer. They’re three-piece mahogany back and mahogany sides. Albeit sinker mahogany.
@@ricjoorg Like what?! ..they stole my idea^^
@@acousticmarco If someone was going to steal my idea I would want it to be David Gilmour. I’ve stolen plenty of his. I want to hear that guitar too!
@@G_Demolished Not really curious about the David Gilmour version, since i'm proudly holding a 1987 standard D-35.. anyway, just one of those regularly showing up signature models like the Johnny Cash version was.. don't really care about all those besides extra high pricing
D35 picking... “I Can’t Help it if I’m Still in Love With You” 😁👏 I love them all but my favorite sound is the HD 28.
have one myself and love it greetings from ausralia
Good call Daniel! Thanks for watching
Seems like the D18 and D28 would pair well together for an acoustic duo. As a d28 owner, I can see the attraction to the d18 as we'll, not better or worse, just different. That HD28 sucks though.
I don't remember it sucking too much when I had it here...
d18 all day anyday.
D35 then d18. Both sound almost equally as good
D18 modern deluxe ! Wow ...
OMG - how could anybody decide which one to take home? I'd be so torn. They all sound beautiful.
That's why you buy one of each. Sell a kidney or something. I don't know.
I want them all!! 😫
D18 by a long shot
Did the D35 here have light or medium strings? Such a great sound.
D18 Std.!!
I haven't had the pleasure of playing a REAL Martin...but I did buy a couple of sigmas by Martin..dr1st and a dmi....and I am amazed at the sound they have...I paid 10 dollars for the dr1st and a 100 dollars for the dm1...the dr plays and sounds unbelievable...the dm has high action, but sounds incredible...I'm going to have to save for a REAL Martin....enjoyed your video.
I'd be curious to see how the Recording King RD-328 with the aged Addy top stacks up with these.
Wow D18 Modern Deluxe
Definitely a good one.
D18 !
D-18 MD hands down
This is essentially a comparison between Mahogany wood (D18) vs. Rosewood (D28, HD28, D35) dreadnought guitars, and within the Rosewood category, between a traditional 2-piece back design (D28, HD28) vs. a 3 piece back design (D35). Mahogany will always sound warmer in tone, whereas Rosewood will be brighter in tone. If the bracing on all of the guitars is the same, then the 3 piece back on the D-35 will usually produce an accentuated bass tone compared to a traditional 2 piece back.
You got that right!!
the 3 piece back really has nothing to do with it , its minimal to the sound , The thinner bracing is what really does it , The D35 is non scalloped 1/4 inch while the 28s are 5/16 inch d 28 non scalloped hd scalloped , I own a D35 and love it
I love D18s and D28s, impossible to choose which is better - they're just different. The HD28 has a much more "modern" sound more akin to Taylor. Not a bad voice, but not how I want *my* Martin to sound, either.
I can dig that for sure...
Very interesting conclusion, I agree!
D-18 for flatpick HD-28 for fingerstyle
Correct
I like a HD28 for rosewood. When it comes to mahogany I prefer a Gibson. Total opposites which makes life interesting 👍🏻
They all sound good, they all sound different, buy em all and don't look back...nothing sounds exactly like a Martin other than a Martin imho.
Brilliant.
Some good guitars here for sure Patel. Thanks for stopping by.
HD-28
Mahogany- piano sound, rosewood - harpscihord sound.
Really GREAT playing- so good, I left it on without even noticing in the background while doing other work. Which Martin did you like- if you could have only 1. Maybe your top three in order please.
What a question! Out of these 4? Probably an HD-28.... What Martin do I actually have? A 000-18. I would say if you're looking for a dread, you can't go wrong with any of these. I'd probably go HD-28 or D-18 though...
@@ianmeadows6351 Thanks. I like the way the HD-28 looks and sounds too. I've heard the post 2012 D-18's are great and have the forward bracing. I also want one with the pup onboard...though I've heard the high end Takamine's sound even better plugged in. Since you are into acoustic- check out "Kotaro Oshio WINGS." One of the best acoustic pieces I have ever heard. He performs this on a Takamine.
@@ianmeadows6351 was the action or the neck width on the d18 not to your liking? It’s just i heard a couple of flubbed notes. Not to criticise! It was still a really nice performance!
Love my D18 but play my D28 for bluegrass.
D-18 sounds great… best in comparison to all
Noughty boi nation rise up!
noughty boi
For picking and soft nail brush-strumming, you recommend the D18 or the D28...and what about a Sinker?
How about the brace difference between those martins
Wow,that D 28 is loud
Fuck!!! Give us strings factory...
Which does the player prefer and why?
D28!!
D18- standard. The warmest one. RW is great... but a bit overrated.
The first strum of the D-18 was just 🍆
haha, yes man!
Do not care much for the D18,D-28 is okay but my 1980 D-28 is the only martin guitar I've ever loved it's just one of the one in a million , I've had three D35s Four D28s with one being a Twelve string Binding came off three of my Martin's and I bought every one of them brand new,Also I had a D45 at one time and didn't care for it at all the twelve string I could never get it set up to play it ,That thing was impossible to fret it would kill your hands ,I now own Seven high end Taylor's and my 1980 I bought because it was in mint condition and it's a no hard hard guitar to find like this one ,I think new Martin guitars have lost really went down hill ,And from my playing guitars I think Taylor out plays and sounds better than Martin even my 1980 D-28 but it's the only martin I've ever loved
couldn't agree less.
Go to a music store and put one in your hands. That's how I found my D28...
You seem to have the action set way too low on all of these. It's not supposed to have that much string buzz at studio volumes.
Factory setups. Probably just hitting it too hard.
I must give you credit for effort... but the variables -- computer speakers, string gauges, et. al. -- make it virtually impossible to discern meaningful differences. That said, there are differences... but characterizing them in a meaningful comparative manner simply defies objective logic!
It's just for fun
You're playing behind sound hole, hard to evaluate
What strings on the D18MD?
D'addario EJ16s