I’m a piano player. There’s no question that Yamaha is one of the premier instrument makers in the world: if they can go head to head with Steinway or Bosendorfer, then why would they not be considered in the same league as as Martin when it comes to guitars? I know the reason: it’s because they make instruments at all levels, from student to professional. But the quality is always really high, whatever band the instrument is in. I’m actually very fond of that ethos: whatever you make, make it the best you can.
Are the people (the company, etc.) who make those Steinway-level pianos the same people who make these guitars? You have to consider this in answering your question, "...why would they not be considered in the same league...."
I bought a Japanese made Yamaha piano 30-40 years ago. It cost about $400 more than a US made Yamaha piano--but it was clearly far better made. The sales guy told me that if it were made in the US to the same standards, it would cost at least $2000 more. A couple of years ago I called a piano broker and said I wanted to sell the 30 year old piano. He said don't bother. Pianos that old were a dime a dozen. I sent him photos and documentation. He sold the piano for about $1000 more than I had paid for it 30 years earlier. I have a lot of confidence in Japanese made Yamaha musical instruments and hope to get a fg9m. (I had an old LD 10 that was fantastic.)
@@garyries8571...I of course agree with you. I too trust Yamaha brand. Martin only produces guitar only acoustic, not even electric guitar. Yamaha is much bigger and high level company than Martin. Yamaha produces motorcycles ( best engine in the world). Pianos, guitar, drums, sound system, generators, etc and many more and has high quality
I have a Martin like that and love it. I've played Yamahas and like them, but I love the sound the Martin makes more. The Yamaha didn't produce as rich a sound as the Martin, as evidenced in your demo. Don't get me wrong... the Yamaha sounded good. And it sounds well made with quality materials. But having said that let me also say I almost choked when you announced the Yamaha's price. You completely lost me there. I've been playing for just about 60 years and when someone asks (as they do) what they should buy as a beginner to intermediate guitar I say Yamaha.
Ok, you can take the Japanese made bolt on neck and I'll take the American made with that classic booming martin sound. And I'll gladly spend more lol. How much does a vintage Yamaha sell for BTW? Yea, I'll stick to Martin's thanks though...
I recently bought an LL26 and it blows me away every time I pick it up. Everyone that has played it has been shocked at how good it is. It seems like most people who buy one do not resell it. Very few used models for sale. That's always a good sign, to me.
Le LL made in Japan vengono vendute su ordinazione, sicuramente non sono molti quelli che la chiedono per venderla, anche perchè costano molto più nuove che usate
Agreed on all the Japanese made L series. Very hard to find on resale market. The 16 series on the other hand seem to pop up fairly regularly. I had an opportunity to play an LJ16 side by side with an LJ26 and there was no comparison.
LL16 is chinese made....I have one that is marvelous after I refretted it myself and got rid of the stupid 12th fret hump. I've played some dogs....it's hit or miss.@@jeffberdin
LL56 here but actually wanted the 26, just couldn't find one at the time and got a deal on this. Totally magical instrument, one of my life's great loves. Total privilege.
Let me preface by saying that I’m a huge Yamaha fan. I own an FGX5 and would choose an FG5 over a D-18 , not because I don’t love the Martin as well, but it’s nearly twice the cost and that makes the Yamaha exceptional value. In this case however, the FG9R is actually more than the HD-28 and I get that it’s a hand built guitar but if you’re trying to convince someone who wants that Martin tone, there is no substitute for a Martin. From a brand positioning standpoint, Yamaha has positioned itself as great value vs the big brands with comparable specs as evidenced by the new red labels, L series and A3/A5 series. They seem to have moved away from that messaging in this case which I think many consumers will struggle with.
I've seen so many crappy Martins and Yamaha's....neither line is almighty. I play with a guy who has a brazilian rosewood D28.....I wouldn't give you 100.00 for it....well maybe to resell it to a stupid person who swoons over just a name.
The Yamaha sounds good, no question. But I can‘t help myself, those Martins… damn. They all seem to have some incredible woody depth and magic I can‘t describe, and that no one else seems to be able to replicate. I really need an HD-28 at some point soon.
I have always thought that Yamaha guitars are an incredible value. I have an LL16 and an FSX5. I think that they are both comparable to more expensive guitars, especially the FSX5. Thanks for the comparison, even if both are out of my self-imposed price range.
High-end Yammies and Martins are great guitars. Martins are outstanding in the low (especially) and middle register but the overall spectrum of the Yammies makes them more versatile. If somebody manages to forget for a while all the glorious tunes that have been recorded with Martins he will discover high-quality instruments made in Japan.
And those glorious tunes recorded with Martins were crafted with absolutely stunning instruments. There's a reason Martin vintage guitars are so much money. Modern Martins just ain't it anymore, you can get way better for the money with less qc issues.
Yamaha is an exceptional company in the music business with all their musical products; and their guitars from years ago to today; with the low price models to the FG9s are no exception. The Martin and the Yamaha both sound great. I am partial to the Yamaha; because my 44 year old one still sounds excellent. 😉
I’ve left the same comment on so many videos, but my FS5 sold me on Yamaha. It’s literally a perfect guitar IMO. Yamahas sound is so balanced. It’s got some of the airiness that martins have but also a bit of the shimmer of Taylor’s. They also just play wonderfully. It’s my favorite guitar, and the cheaper price is just icing on the cake.
@@RadarsRadicalRides I’ve never played an fs9 but there seem to be huge differences. Rosewood vs mahogany, different finish and look. Adirondack vs Sitka spruce. I think the electronics are the same. The fs9 is almost 3k more expensive. The fs5 goes for more of a retro look and feel and the fs9 more of an upscale finish. I personally prefer mahogany with steel strings and prefer the simpler looks of the fs5. Again, I’ve never played an FS9 but going on specs and price alone I’d choose the fs5
I’m in the UK and Martin guitars are expensive here. I picked up the FG9 for $1250 less than I could find the Martin for. Yes the Martin has the edge with its lower register, but the FG9 is better at everything else. I’d add the FG9 is not the flagship model. The top of the range is the LL56, which will set you back $9000. Disclaimer. I also own an FS5 and the FG5. Yamaha are awesome
LL56 is more expensive, but the price partly comes from its luxury appointments. Yamaha itself describes the FG9 as the flagship model of its acoustic guitars.
I have no problem with laying down 4k for the Yammie. They’ve been on a tear the last 3-4 years making superb guitars with each year improving the previous. FG9 is an instrument to be had.
Thanks for this review and demo. Great job. I bought a new HD-28 last year, and yes, it had high action, which made it harder to play and threw the intonation off a bit. I gambled that a proper setup would fix these issues, and so I bought it and sent it off to a luthier for setup. Now it's a great sounding, easy-to-play guitar. I like the sound of the Yamaha FG9 R in your demo. If it had been available when I was in the market, I definitely would've considered it (along with the mahogany version). The HD-28 and FG9 R both sound great, but different, especially the sound of the initial articulation and the way the notes bloom immediately after articulation.
I’m not a dreadnaught player. I play OM and GC size exclusively finger style. Like most of my generation, I learned on a dreadnaught, some 60 years ago. I quickly switched to smaller guitars and have never looked back. But I have an appreciation for the big boys and to my ear the Martin HD will always be THE dreadnaught. The Yamaha is a beautifully crafted guitar, probably better crafted than the Martin. I own two very nice Martins. I love them but honestly, from a craftsmanship perspective, some of my other instruments outshine them. In terms of tonal character the HD is iconic. The Yamaha sounds excellent but a tad clinical to me. It has perhaps a bit more fundamental clarity than the Martin. But the Martin sounds what a dreadnaught should sound like in my head. Good comparison though I do agree both should be wearing the same strings.
The HD28 has it's unique trademark Martin Sound, which I love. I think you must them play both to understand and feel for yourself. It's maybe personal preference.
I would have to go with the Martin. To me, it sounds warmer with more depth and clarity. They both sound very good, though. My first guitar was a used Yamaha C150 with nylon strings that I purchased for $175 in 1988. Since then, I've owned Taylor, Fender, and Zager acoustic guitars. I liked the Yamaha but there are a few minor things I find annoying about their guitars, such as the lack of a top strap button. As always, great video, Chris!
As a carpenter I have always been impressed with Japan’s woodworking skills and building techniques. Especially fit and finish, and glueless construction methods. And that’s just their old school home builders, and furniture builders yatta, yatta, yatta, but even they’re guitars from the 80’s are just insane. As their quality control; is far and away superior’ compared to.. well, quite possibly ’anyone else, That said. I would love nothing more than to have my own shootout testing all my favorites; but without any real guitar stores, in my area.. I’m going to have to settle for whatever my locals want to pass may way. Cheers.
The chinese ones are not......don't be fooled....I have a mess of the chinese yamaha's....one of mine a LL-16 blows away any martin...including the D-45. No contest when it comes to sound...but I've played a mess of both brands that suck. FG9 and LL26 or greater are marvelous...usually!
Nuts. The Martin is much more alive with sound. Yamahas seem muted on the low end and dull. I have purchased and owned Yamaha dreads, and they serviceable but not great . Yep, I don't think your nuts, just a guitar seller. Sum: Yamaha has good stuff, not worth missing an hd28.
Japanese have the best quality control in the world. Quality is a part of their culture, they put so much pride in it, and it's what makes Japan (and Japanese products) so amazing
For me they both sound very similar with high quality. so from an audience perspective if I were to hear this being played live in the hands of a well skilled guitarist at a live festival , I would think this dude sounds great.. I don't think the Listeners at the concert would be able to tell the differences if the rocker played both & switched guitars between sets.. I think the main reason why we think one is better sounding than the other one is because we are using our confirmation bias ,so how brain plays tricks on us & we think one is better sounding than the other one , when in fact based on my opinion they both pretty much do the same thing... at the end of the day whatever differences in my opinion are marginal at best. plus sound is very subjective...
I thought they both sounded similar. I own a 66 D28, and a Yamaha FG800. I would not sell or trade either for the world. If I had 4K fo spend on a guitar, I would likely seek out that Yamaha, mostly because I want an Adirondack spruce top guitar. Great match up, they are clearly both winners.
The Yamaha has great projection, no doubt. But it leans a bit on the shrill side to my ears. I had the same distaste for a Yamaha AC5M I ended up selling - and it was a mahogany b/s. Martin has the warmer wood vibe I prefer.
Fun shoot out! Both sounds and look great! I have a 1979/80 Yamaha L-24A that we use as a baseline at the store I work at in NH... Blue Mnt Guitar! and it wins out over many Martins, Taylors, vintage Guilds... honestly a few ties, but never been beat! I love it!
There’s just something about a Martin, especially an HD-28. However, if you’re talking about entry and mid level guitars, Yamaha has them beat everyday. I imagine this Yamaha holds its own and then some. Hopefully I’ll get to try one someday.
The Japanese were building musical instruments before Columbus discovered America. In my opinion Yamaha is perhaps the greatest company in the world. They build my two favourite things, motorcycles and guitars. I' prerfer Japanese guitars, my Takamine is the best built guitar I have ever owned, it's the same as David Lindley plays, incredible quality. Thanks for your videos and God Bless Texas!
Decades will pass, but one fact will remain the same... No one will ever build better guitars than the japanese, acoustic or electric. Their quality control, craftsmanship and attention to detail have always been second to none. God Bless those hardworking geniuses!
Before Japanese invented guitars...philipines tribe warriors are already playing music instrument from guitars ,to drums and more or less strings..but when Spanish came all trees and woods are destroyed and used by Spain to make galleon SHIPS..
From my blind listening I will take the Yamaha. The notes are more defined. Years ago I sold my D35 and bought a Canadian made Laravee for its sweeter and more defined mid and upper range. As a bluegrass guitar the Martin is hard to beat
I bought the FG9R after a long search. I compared it to some Martin and Lakewood models, but the Yamaha sounds much better. In the end I had to choose between the FG9R and a Lakewood model. Lakewood also makes amazing guitars.
I don't think a Martin Dreadnaught is meant to be balanced, haha. Dreadnaughts have a strong base, and the high end comes through, but the mid-range is super scooped. This is particularly true of Martins, which have a stronger bass than any other brand. That's the appeal though. Personally the only Martin I own is an OM-28, which is a much more balanced guitar, though I'd love to ALSO own a Dreadnaught if I had the money to throw away.
I hope this doesn’t seem harsh. This was a lazy preparation for a comparison. Because the one thing you could control was the strings. Both guitars should have had the same coated strings yo@@installed.. There is a massive sound difference between production non coated and coated strings. I vote for a revised comparison.
The Martin still wins for me for string to string balance and it still has that hardness and special resonance in its midrange and overall response that all the competition lacks. The upper frequencies of the HD-28 is still thicker and punchier compared to the Yamaha that’s brighter and thinner. If you prefer a different sound than the Martin then go with Yamaha or a competitor. But for that price I have much more affection for the Martin for tone, punch and confidence in its longevity in the long run. Great demos!
If Chris was right, and the Yamaha has lighter gauge strings, that could account for the thinner/brighter sound. I’d like to see them put the same strings on both guitars and do the comparison again
Equalized strings would probably make the guitars sound indistinguishable on TH-cam. Of course as the strings age, the sounds of guitars would deviate. I would not buy an expensive guitar based on impressions with new strings - not being a professional.
I have a similar feeling about a J45 and a Taylor 517 as I do with this. I think the Taylor sounds better and easier to play, but it hasn't been on hundreds of classic songs. This one is easier for me though. The Martin has that Martin sound and that is the standard.
If you can find any, try some vintage L-Series Yamaha's. I particularly love the late 70s-early 80s L models. The new FG9 is not the first high-end instrument for Yamaha. The current LL-26, LL-36, and LL-56 are unbelievable. I would have a hard time going for the FG9 over the other options that Yamaha have.
Martin for me, but as a HD28 owner I’m definitely biased. If I wanted another rosewood/spruce guitar with a contrasting sound I’d definitely consider the Yamaha. But then it would be up against Gibson & Taylor’s … all great brands 🤔
Excellent comparison! Thank You! Bought my wife a solid wood Yamaha OM about 32 years ago and it still plays great! I'm impressed with the Yamaha featured here. I realize tone is subjective, and for me I found the Martin to possess a more distinctive and somewhat richer and warmer bass and mid-range without being muddy. Also, during the strumming it seemed to me that the notes projected with a bit more individual clarity or balance overall. The Yamaha had great projection I thought and a beautiful sound with amazing sustain. However, I felt it was a bit thinner on the bass and mid-range and produced more of a "bell-like" sound overall. Also, during strumming it seemed to me to lose some of the individual clarity in comparison to the Martin. Both are excellent instruments each with their own "personality"! I believe the price tag on the Yamaha is fair price for such an instrument of this quality! I currently own a 1990 Martin HD-28 BLE (Brazilian Limited Edition) and I absolutely love it and I will never part with it. Years ago, I owned a 1943 Martin 000-28 (Brazilian Rosewood) and had to let it go due to hard times and regretted it ever since. Thank You so much for sharing this! Enjoyed your presentation very much!
Great comparison. The Martin had a slightly deeper tone to my ears, but the Yamaha sounded better overall in my opinion. I own a Yamaha FGX5, and have nothing but great things to say about it. Excellent instrument.
Both of these guitars sound amazing! When I listen to guitars that are “an homage” to Martin, even the ones like this one which are on par with materials and construction methods, there is just something about the Martin that just speaks to me. The resonate bass…the fact that the sound comes from the wood more than it does from the strings. They feel to me like they are not trying to prove anything. They just are…. That famous Martin sound. I think I will always prefer it. But this Yamaha is truly amazing.
I bought a Yamaha FG-9R and I already have a Martin CS 21-11. Both are incredible good guitars. The new FG-9R sounds so mesmerising and magical. I highly recommend IT to the toughest hard core Martinists and to all members of the Holy Church of C.F.M.!
The music store near me doesn't currently have any FG-9s yet, but they did have a FGX-5 that I played and that was a nice guitar. I sold my FG840 last year. I really miss that guitar. Had it for 7 years and it was my guitar I learned on.
My first guitar was a 1967 Yamaha fg 180 red label I bought new for 100 dollars when I was 12. I still own it and it sounds fantastic! I also have a 1984 HD/28 Martin I bought used for 1200 dollars. It sounds great also! Not better just different. I love them both. Thank you God! I will never sell either.
Other than a quickly ill-fated Sears Silvertone in my early teens, my first steel string was a 1971 Yamaha FG-180 Red label as well - at 17yo, new! I should still have that, but it stayed with me as my main guitar for 20 years, in its later years with me interspersed with a couple of great Takamines, accompanied ultimately by a D-28... Given to a friend, and was glad to see it have a home with him, I still miss that Yamaha!
To my ears the Yamaha was a little better. The instrument sounds more connected through each register and it was a far superior guitar for fingerstyle. The Martin is a classic sound with standout bass tones but I didn’t feel the same connection between registers. Either way you can’t go wrong but I prefer the more modern sounding Yamaha
My first acoustic guitar was a mid-70s FG-160. I've always respected their instruments. You're right, they do sound noticeably different. The Yamaha strikes me as a more open, "airy", jumbo sort of sound, while the Martin seems to have more "density" to the sound, which my ear seems to prefer. But I only heard this in the first couple of demo segments. My present acoustic (still have the FG-160 in high strung tuning) is a Taylor GAMC -- essentially an early, limited edition 514. I'd like to get a rosewood body acoustic someday, and I'm enjoying your informative, comparison videos @Alamo Music Center. I would certainly include Yamaha in the mix for my next purchase.
Yamaha is a class company. I own a phenomenal Yamaha piano and a solid silver bodied student flute. The new FG series was designed in concert with an American luthier, Yamaha was able to scale his design up for production with all the finest tooling and computer technology, adding some nice Japanese designs for the fretboard and rosette along the way. I learned all of this here on TH-cam. Also, my dreadnought is an ‘89 Alvarez Yairi DY-90 in Brazilian Rosewood which is awesome. Also have a Japanese classical. And a Korean Epiphone jazz box. So I’m entirely pro-Asia, guitar wise. But … I liked the HD-28 in this comparison. Maybe it was the lovely thumping low E that Chris pointed out. Overall, the Martin delivered a pleasant, classic sound.
Thanks for a great and very interesting comparison, well done! I love the FG9 Yamaha, sounds a bit less stiff and more "singing" than the Martin I think to hear from the video. Should try them live. I love both brands, I have always played my Martin D35, lots of festivals and recordings. But there is more than just Martin, which has always been my dream instrument. My wife plays a 90´s Martin M36, amazing guitar, for Bluegrass as well as anything else. I got a Yamaha LL36 for my birthday, 3 years ago and it is an amazing guitar, so beautifully built, so great sounding and playing! Perfect. Besides that I now very often take out my just as amazing Boucher BG152GM, wow! Adirondack top, as well as my Collings D42A. Then also my Collings CJ IRW is incredible. The D42A is stunning to see, a bit too focussed, loud and brutal. The CJ is fuller and warmer. I am truly spoiled, sorry. Hard to say which one is the best, possibly the Boucher, but I love them all and play them all. I still have to find out what are the differences between the Yamaha FG´s and the LL´s.
I already bought the fg9r Chris. They come with elixir 80/20 light gauge. I replaced the strings with pb elixir but i went back to 80/20 as it sounds a lot better.
I just bought a LL26, love the idea that its a one person hand built instrument all solid wood guitar, after doing some reseaech im willing to give it a try, i wanted a Martin but figured thats a mass produced guitar and it seems to me the Value in the Yamaha is of higher quality and personal touch and attention to detail
I own a Martin D-28 and would have to say it depends what type of music you play. I love the warm tone of the Martin and think it can’t be beat for bluegrass flat picking. That said, I play other styles of music and feel the upper end Taylor’s have great tonal qualities and are a lot more versatile. I would have to play the Yamaha to see how it compares to an 814 Taylor
I have a 30-year-old HD28, which I love. To my ears, the 2 guitars in this demo sound very similar to each other. I prefer the Yamaha here. I like the increased sparkle in the higher registers. The Martin in the demo (and my HD28) both have somewhat muted highs, which can sound great in some contexts, but I often miss some high end.
Yamaha sounds great, but I expected that as I own two Yamaha guitars and one Yamaha bass. They make very good instruments indeed. I think I prefer the sound of the Yam over the Martin, though both are exquisite. The only thing that might edge me towards the Martin would be the potential resale value
I have an HD-28 and had Martin factory install the Fishman elec pickup during a recent repair. The Harringbone sound is awesome. If you had to own one single guitar, not matter the guitar, your only guitar sould be the HD-28. If you get a second guitar, well that's up to you and I won't impose upon you. A lifelong friend told me this, and he is right. If I wanted a Japanese Guitar I would get a 1962 Aria A500 Classic, which I happen to own. I've been offerred over $4000 cash in hand twice when I let someone play that one. The TONE is special on that Aria I wrote Aria and they know the Japanese master who made it, but not much more; Aria has changed ownership about 4-6 times since the 50s/60s when they made some exquisit instruments. If you can score one, do it. Otherwise stick with the Martin HD-28. A Fender Strat 2021 Denim or a real Gibson would be a fine Electric choice before going custom shop made;)
I liked Yamaha the most, it has more high frequencies and brightness in the sound than Martin. Martin is Martin, nothing bad about it. But the Yamaha sounded better in this comparison. Great video! Thank you!
I like the warmth of the treble strings on the Martin. And the Martin has a much nicer upper register in terms of sound quality. I don't know if it is the bolt on neck, but Taylor also has that thin nasal tone in their treble strings. Martin for me in this comparison.
@@soofitnsexy No offense to the Chris, but I believe the "thin nasal" tone you are hearing is the player, not the guitar. The Yamaha's Adi top is much stiffer and tighter than the Martin's Sitka top. The Adirondack top needs to be "pushed" a little before it will yield the sparkling tone they are known for. I don't think Chris was digging in enough to make the FG9 "sing". These are both amazing guitars (obviously), but I have heard the FG9 being played by a couple of really amazing players, and to me, it produces all the warm, deep bass response everyone expects from a quality dreadnought, but still retains the upper mid and high end sparkle that I haven't heard from many other dred's except maybe some super high end boutique drednoughts, like Bourgeois. I think I'm going to have to get one of these.
i appreciate u! Ive owned many high end collings bourgeoise several martins but never an Adi top!! have u played one in person! happy holidays from nyc@@richardstones6445
@@richardstones6445 Adirondack top will only add overtones to the existing frequency spectrum as it ages and opens up. It cannot add more base as that frequency is simply not there on the FG9. So you can play the FG9 for 100 years and it still won't sound as a Martin on the low end, and never will.
No doubt the tops will open up with age - both Adi as well as Sitka. But I can hear (and feel) a difference in these two tone woods on brand new guitars. I have a Martin 000-28 MD, and an OM guitar with an adi top from Bourgeois. The adi top is just much tighter and stiffer. I get a totally different vibe from each guitar when I really dig in and play aggressively. I'm not any kind of expert, especially with Dreadnought guitars, but when I sat in front of one being played, my ears didn't miss any of the low end that I hear in Martin's. Interestingly, one of the guitars that was being played was a Martin 28 style dreadnought with an Adirondack top. I was really trying to pay attention to the low end response between these two, and honestly I thought the FG9 held it's own in that regard. @@captainnemo9628
Listening to this video with Sennheiser HD595 headphones I there is something wrong with the sound of both E strings on the Yamaha. I have a 1991 L series and it doesn't have that problem. The Martin sounds perfect.
The d28 just has a unique sound that is hard to describe, but it just stands out. That said, in one portion of the guitar passages, I thought the Yamaha really sounded much better than the Martin. I am in the market for a new guitar, and I have been considering the HD 28. The playability differences were interesting, and the last thing I want is an expensive guitar that is hard to play. I do prefer medium guage strings, but they can be harder to play. The Yamaha is more expensive. Whatever, when I go out to sample guitars, I definitely will look at the Yamaha (and I've been a fan of this brand guitar for years). Great video, thanks.
I while back I was analyzing what exactly is I listen for when choosing a guitar, and the conclusion I came to is this. Some guitars I hear the string more than the "wood", some the wood more. I prefer hearing the wood, and the Martin does that for me
Just bought a second-hand high-end Yamaha: a 2021 LJ26. Booming low end and super smooth neck with lovely ebony fretboard; beautiful fit and finish, gorgeous rosewood back and sides. Not cheap (similar price to a D-18), but no questioning its quality. I thought both of the guitars in this vid sounded great and both look great, though I think the Martin looks a tad nicer. Everyone agrees the FG9 is a phenomenal guitar, but it is damn pricey.
I love my Vintage Yamaha's, this looks like a modern version of my solid wood 1975 Japan made FG580 guitar. They are highly unknown and underappreciated. Would for sure buy this rosewood FG model.
Your notes about the higher action and tackier medium strings ring true for me! I played a bunch of guitars the other day to see if Martins were as good as everyone says, and while the sound was superb, the ones at the store didn't feel as playable as the other guitars I tried out-at least not right off the wall!
Excellent video. My take away is the opposite of what I thought it would be. I'm a big Yamaha fan, and I thought I would like the FG9 better, especially for the fingerstyle playing. To my surprise, except for the booming 6th string, I like the warmer sound of the D-28 a little more for fingerstyle. On the other hand, I thought the D-28 would sound better with the flat-picking. For me, it was the opposite. I prefer the FG9 sound over the D-28 when flat-picked. The FG9 has more presence and clarity. The acoustic guitar is such an intimate instrument, to choose one over the other you would have to just go by brand preference, or do what Chris is doing: Try them side-by-side.
I fit your point exactly, Chris. I was biased toward the Martin going into this, but the Yamaha was clearly better for the 2d and 3rd pieces you played, to my ears. The Martin sounded best in the 1st and 4th pieces. Bottom line for me would be “made in America” because that’s how I roll. I really enjoyed and appreciated this head-to-head comparison. It certainly opened my eyes to the quality coming out of Japan. Thank you. Can we have more of these?
Awesome guitars. Own a couple Yamaha's and they are terrific guitars. Considering purchase of FGX5/FSX5 red label. If had $4k in hand and had to choose think I maybe would like D-28 modern deluxe.
Excellent review! Two lovely guitars each with its personal tone "signature". With me it would likely come down to playability. I do own a couple of Yamaha guitars and a piano. Great fan.
Ditson invented the shape when they asked martin to make a few guitars for them. These were smaller but were dreadnaughts none the less. Good review. I am looking at a used Yamaha fg9 for 1600 right now and am going to buy it
Thnx for another nice video/content. I love Yamaha guitars. Playing an LL6X, even i couldn't manage to record as i hear, i like the natural sound. Last week i played D18 street legend which was awesome. Someone may like a sound of a cheap F310 someone may like an expensive Martin or Taylor. No one can ask why you like blue or why you like green. But you cant see legends playing Yamaha acoustics on stage. For sure they are both super guitars and sound good. Does a Mexican Tele sounds bad, no. But can't beat an American Tele. That is image and branding. First thing you do is looking at the back of the head if its made in Japan, Mexico or US. If Revstar Standard series made by fender it will blow the market.... Yamaha needs a new sub brand or rebranding. By the way I listened the test with HS8 monitors its a deuce for me. Looking forward to a new video....
With the exception of his 12 strings, John Denver almost exclusively played Yamahas, albeit I'm sure custom made for him. Similarly Dan Fogelberg, solidly Martin dreadnoughts for his acoustic six-strings for his 30+ year career, in the late 80s had Yamaha build him a custom one-off "L-41X" signature,..I'm sure an ode to his primary D-41 which Martin also made a limited signature of (and used that Yamaha for some recording including reportedly his rendition of George Harrison's 'I Need You') - as well I'm sure at his level "just because." His personal guitar was sold on R***** awhile back, originally from the Gruhn shop...And, I believe he used a Yamaha as a converted tenor guitar on some of his songs. For sure, the traditional American icons still get most of the notice, but respect and recognition has been there for some time for Yamaha (and Yairi, Takamine etc) by "those in the know."
I own and alternate between playing a Martin D28 and Yamaha LL16D, plus have owned my fair share of guitars over the past 50 years. Sound-wise, both can easily justify being in anyone's arsenal and match each other tonally, while sounding so different, but IMHO you get more bang for buck from Yamaha guitars and re-sale value is pretty good too. I don't care where an instrument originates or what name tag it carries as long as the sound it makes is good.
I own an FG5 and I’m very happy with it. I’ve owned a D18 and a D28. The 18 was great, the 28 had a neck angle, from the factory, that was unacceptable from a builder like Martin. It had to go back, and I was disappointed because I had never owned 28 before. My FG5 was $1450. It makes me wonder what Yamaha will squeeze into the line between the 5 and the 9 and for how much?
I have a 1935 Martin guitar, the year it was made. It is a smaller Martin. It is a 00-17. It has a mahogany body with a rosewood neck. I would like to know what it's worth. It has been in our family since 1965. The neck is thinner and very easy on the fingers to play.
Nope - wrote the Yahama off because I already have an HD-28. BTW - I don't recall the fellow that ran Alamo Music back circa 1980, or even if there is a here-to-then connection, but he sold a sound system to me (and a friend or two) that we gigged with for a couple of years in San Antonio and the surrounds. For those who might have been around, the name of the band was "Blaze". We went for that couple of years, then imploded as bands often do.
As I mentioned before, why Martim has more bass... Because all Martin dreadnoughts have Medium strings 13-56, while Yamaha uses Light strings 12-53. Adirondack top from Yamaha also contributes to a brighter tone
I’m a piano player. There’s no question that Yamaha is one of the premier instrument makers in the world: if they can go head to head with Steinway or Bosendorfer, then why would they not be considered in the same league as as Martin when it comes to guitars? I know the reason: it’s because they make instruments at all levels, from student to professional. But the quality is always really high, whatever band the instrument is in. I’m actually very fond of that ethos: whatever you make, make it the best you can.
Are the people (the company, etc.) who make those Steinway-level pianos the same people who make these guitars? You have to consider this in answering your question, "...why would they not be considered in the same league...."
Not to mention their motorcycles...
@@belascialoja4812
I bought a Japanese made Yamaha piano 30-40 years ago. It cost about $400 more than a US made Yamaha piano--but it was clearly far better made. The sales guy told me that if it were made in the US to the same standards, it would cost at least $2000 more.
A couple of years ago I called a piano broker and said I wanted to sell the 30 year old piano. He said don't bother. Pianos that old were a dime a dozen. I sent him photos and documentation. He sold the piano for about $1000 more than I had paid for it 30 years earlier.
I have a lot of confidence in Japanese made Yamaha musical instruments and hope to get a fg9m. (I had an old LD 10 that was fantastic.)
?
@@garyries8571...I of course agree with you. I too trust Yamaha brand. Martin only produces guitar only acoustic, not even electric guitar. Yamaha is much bigger and high level company than Martin. Yamaha produces motorcycles ( best engine in the world). Pianos, guitar, drums, sound system, generators, etc and many more and has high quality
I own a Martin D 18 modern deluxe. And I played the Yamaha FG9R, and I would say the Yamaha is the best guitar I’ve ever played.
I have a Martin like that and love it. I've played Yamahas and like them, but I love the sound the Martin makes more. The Yamaha didn't produce as rich a sound as the Martin, as evidenced in your demo. Don't get me wrong... the Yamaha sounded good. And it sounds well made with quality materials. But having said that let me also say I almost choked when you announced the Yamaha's price. You completely lost me there. I've been playing for just about 60 years and when someone asks (as they do) what they should buy as a beginner to intermediate guitar I say Yamaha.
@@fredabrams5596no, you’re sorely mistaken
Ok, you can take the Japanese made bolt on neck and I'll take the American made with that classic booming martin sound. And I'll gladly spend more lol. How much does a vintage Yamaha sell for BTW? Yea, I'll stick to Martin's thanks though...
@@ariclippoldt7423 the Yamaha leaves the Martin for dead, but you do what suits you
Martin can't even keep the binding attached to their guitars the last 10 years.@@ariclippoldt7423
I recently bought an LL26 and it blows me away every time I pick it up. Everyone that has played it has been shocked at how good it is. It seems like most people who buy one do not resell it. Very few used models for sale. That's always a good sign, to me.
Le LL made in Japan vengono vendute su ordinazione, sicuramente non sono molti quelli che la chiedono per venderla, anche perchè costano molto più nuove che usate
Agreed on all the Japanese made L series. Very hard to find on resale market. The 16 series on the other hand seem to pop up fairly regularly. I had an opportunity to play an LJ16 side by side with an LJ26 and there was no comparison.
LL16 is chinese made....I have one that is marvelous after I refretted it myself and got rid of the stupid 12th fret hump. I've played some dogs....it's hit or miss.@@jeffberdin
LL56 here but actually wanted the 26, just couldn't find one at the time and got a deal on this. Totally magical instrument, one of my life's great loves. Total privilege.
Let me preface by saying that I’m a huge Yamaha fan. I own an FGX5 and would choose an FG5 over a D-18 , not because I don’t love the Martin as well, but it’s nearly twice the cost and that makes the Yamaha exceptional value. In this case however, the FG9R is actually more than the HD-28 and I get that it’s a hand built guitar but if you’re trying to convince someone who wants that Martin tone, there is no substitute for a Martin. From a brand positioning standpoint, Yamaha has positioned itself as great value vs the big brands with comparable specs as evidenced by the new red labels, L series and A3/A5 series. They seem to have moved away from that messaging in this case which I think many consumers will struggle with.
I've seen so many crappy Martins and Yamaha's....neither line is almighty. I play with a guy who has a brazilian rosewood D28.....I wouldn't give you 100.00 for it....well maybe to resell it to a stupid person who swoons over just a name.
The Martin sounds warmer, and is more pleasing, at least to my ears. Excellent comparison!
I agree.❤
The martin does not cut through during a unplugged sesson. Yamaha blows it away.
In time, the yamaha will sound warmer and more pleasant. I prefer Yamaha
Warmer vs. brighter are objective qualities. Better is entirely subjective. There is no true or false for subjective qualities.
Upon hearing the comparison I preferred the Martin. Not right or wrong, just my preference. It produced a better sound in my opinion. What do I know?
The Yamaha has stunning clarity, but both sound awesome 👍
The Yamaha sounds good, no question.
But I can‘t help myself, those Martins… damn. They all seem to have some incredible woody depth and magic I can‘t describe, and that no one else seems to be able to replicate. I really need an HD-28 at some point soon.
Ahaha, and I do have a working Apple Newton here 😂
Bought by my father however-I was still in primary school at that point!
well said my friend. i have a martin 00016gte that is very resonance
I have always thought that Yamaha guitars are an incredible value. I have an LL16 and an FSX5. I think that they are both comparable to more expensive guitars, especially the FSX5. Thanks for the comparison, even if both are out of my self-imposed price range.
High-end Yammies and Martins are great guitars. Martins are outstanding in the low (especially) and middle register but the overall spectrum of the Yammies makes them more versatile. If somebody manages to forget for a while all the glorious tunes that have been recorded with Martins he will discover high-quality instruments made in Japan.
And those glorious tunes recorded with Martins were crafted with absolutely stunning instruments. There's a reason Martin vintage guitars are so much money. Modern Martins just ain't it anymore, you can get way better for the money with less qc issues.
Yamaha is an exceptional company in the music business with all their musical products; and their guitars from years ago to today; with the low price models to the FG9s are no exception. The Martin and the Yamaha both sound great. I am partial to the Yamaha; because my 44 year old one still sounds excellent. 😉
I’ve left the same comment on so many videos, but my FS5 sold me on Yamaha.
It’s literally a perfect guitar IMO.
Yamahas sound is so balanced. It’s got some of the airiness that martins have but also a bit of the shimmer of Taylor’s. They also just play wonderfully.
It’s my favorite guitar, and the cheaper price is just icing on the cake.
I like the look of a FS5m - do you know what the difference is between the 5 and the 9? Is it electronics?
@@RadarsRadicalRides I’ve never played an fs9 but there seem to be huge differences. Rosewood vs mahogany, different finish and look. Adirondack vs Sitka spruce. I think the electronics are the same. The fs9 is almost 3k more expensive. The fs5 goes for more of a retro look and feel and the fs9 more of an upscale finish. I personally prefer mahogany with steel strings and prefer the simpler looks of the fs5. Again, I’ve never played an FS9 but going on specs and price alone I’d choose the fs5
I’m in the UK and Martin guitars are expensive here. I picked up the FG9 for $1250 less than I could find the Martin for. Yes the Martin has the edge with its lower register, but the FG9 is better at everything else.
I’d add the FG9 is not the flagship model. The top of the range is the LL56, which will set you back $9000.
Disclaimer. I also own an FS5 and the FG5.
Yamaha are awesome
LL56 is more expensive, but the price partly comes from its luxury appointments. Yamaha itself describes the FG9 as the flagship model of its acoustic guitars.
Yamahas are incredible and underrated in the guitar industry
I have no problem with laying down 4k for the Yammie. They’ve been on a tear the last 3-4 years making superb guitars with each year improving the previous. FG9 is an instrument to be had.
I just can’t pay that much for one. I would rather buy a used Bougeois.
Thanks for this review and demo. Great job. I bought a new HD-28 last year, and yes, it had high action, which made it harder to play and threw the intonation off a bit. I gambled that a proper setup would fix these issues, and so I bought it and sent it off to a luthier for setup. Now it's a great sounding, easy-to-play guitar. I like the sound of the Yamaha FG9 R in your demo. If it had been available when I was in the market, I definitely would've considered it (along with the mahogany version). The HD-28 and FG9 R both sound great, but different, especially the sound of the initial articulation and the way the notes bloom immediately after articulation.
I have to say the HD 28 gets me in the gut, I like that
everyone's talking about the fg9 and how wonderful it is. i got an 850 and its incredilble
i can imagine playing the fg9 i would fall in love with it
Yes you would.
I’m not a dreadnaught player. I play OM and GC size exclusively finger style. Like most of my generation, I learned on a dreadnaught, some 60 years ago. I quickly switched to smaller guitars and have never looked back. But I have an appreciation for the big boys and to my ear the Martin HD will always be THE dreadnaught. The Yamaha is a beautifully crafted guitar, probably better crafted than the Martin. I own two very nice Martins. I love them but honestly, from a craftsmanship perspective, some of my other instruments outshine them. In terms of tonal character the HD is iconic. The Yamaha sounds excellent but a tad clinical to me. It has perhaps a bit more fundamental clarity than the Martin. But the Martin sounds what a dreadnaught should sound like in my head. Good comparison though I do agree both should be wearing the same strings.
The HD28 has it's unique trademark Martin Sound, which I love. I think you must them play both to understand and feel for yourself. It's maybe personal preference.
I have a 1975 Yamaha acoustic guitar that plays really sweet with a great warm. Rich sound
1975 huh?
Considering how insanely high Yamaha standards have always been, it'll probably still sound just as good in 2075 😂
We just got them in Canada, and I bought the first FG9-R that my local store got! And I couldn’t be happier! Better than the HD-28 (in my opinion)!
I would have to go with the Martin. To me, it sounds warmer with more depth and clarity. They both sound very good, though. My first guitar was a used Yamaha C150 with nylon strings that I purchased for $175 in 1988. Since then, I've owned Taylor, Fender, and Zager acoustic guitars. I liked the Yamaha but there are a few minor things I find annoying about their guitars, such as the lack of a top strap button. As always, great video, Chris!
As a carpenter I have always been impressed with Japan’s woodworking skills and building techniques. Especially fit and finish, and glueless construction methods. And that’s just their old school home builders, and furniture builders yatta, yatta, yatta, but even they’re guitars from the 80’s are just insane. As their quality control; is far and away superior’ compared to.. well, quite possibly ’anyone else, That said. I would love nothing more than to have my own shootout testing all my favorites; but without any real guitar stores, in my area.. I’m going to have to settle for whatever my locals want to pass may way. Cheers.
I have a 1979 anniversary edition Alvarez/Yairi and it's a nice piece of work. And that Mahogany body sounds awesome!
@@Snarkapotamus oh hell yeah fantastic year!”
The chinese ones are not......don't be fooled....I have a mess of the chinese yamaha's....one of mine a LL-16 blows away any martin...including the D-45. No contest when it comes to sound...but I've played a mess of both brands that suck.
FG9 and LL26 or greater are marvelous...usually!
Nuts. The Martin is much more alive with sound. Yamahas seem muted on the low end and dull. I have purchased and owned Yamaha dreads, and they serviceable but not great .
Yep, I don't think your nuts, just a guitar seller. Sum: Yamaha has good stuff, not worth missing an hd28.
Japanese have the best quality control in the world. Quality is a part of their culture, they put so much pride in it, and it's what makes Japan (and Japanese products) so amazing
Yamaha makes phenomenal guitars. I own two and will for sure be purchasing them in the future
For me they both sound very similar with high quality.
so from an audience perspective if I were to hear this being played live in the hands of a well skilled guitarist at a live festival , I would think this dude sounds great..
I don't think the Listeners at the concert would be able to tell the differences if the rocker played both & switched guitars between sets..
I think the main reason why we think one is better sounding than the other one is because we are using our confirmation bias ,so how brain plays tricks on us & we think one is better sounding than the other one , when in fact based on my opinion they both pretty much do the same thing... at the end of the day whatever differences in my opinion are marginal at best. plus sound is very subjective...
I thought they both sounded similar.
I own a 66 D28, and a Yamaha FG800. I would not sell or trade either for the world.
If I had 4K fo spend on a guitar, I would likely seek out that Yamaha, mostly because I want an Adirondack spruce top guitar.
Great match up, they are clearly both winners.
I have a Martin DCPA4 and a Yamaha FG 830 the Yammie stands up to the Martin!😮😊🎶🎸
I have a Yamaha LS16M and enjoy it more than my Taylor. It’s my first Yamaha and won’t be my last.
The Yamaha has great projection, no doubt. But it leans a bit on the shrill side to my ears. I had the same distaste for a Yamaha AC5M I ended up selling - and it was a mahogany b/s. Martin has the warmer wood vibe I prefer.
Fun shoot out! Both sounds and look great! I have a 1979/80 Yamaha L-24A that we use as a baseline at the store I work at in NH... Blue Mnt Guitar! and it wins out over many Martins, Taylors, vintage Guilds... honestly a few ties, but never been beat! I love it!
There’s just something about a Martin, especially an HD-28. However, if you’re talking about entry and mid level guitars, Yamaha has them beat everyday. I imagine this Yamaha holds its own and then some. Hopefully I’ll get to try one someday.
More boomy and full sound for the Martin.
But for the player, the most thing important is the way the guitar responds to pick attack , and vibrates.
The Japanese were building musical instruments before Columbus discovered America. In my opinion Yamaha is perhaps the greatest company in the world. They build my two favourite things, motorcycles and guitars. I' prerfer Japanese guitars, my Takamine is the best built guitar I have ever owned, it's the same as David Lindley plays, incredible quality. Thanks for your videos and God Bless Texas!
Decades will pass, but one fact will remain the same... No one will ever build better guitars than the japanese, acoustic or electric. Their quality control, craftsmanship and attention to detail have always been second to none.
God Bless those hardworking geniuses!
& Garth Brooks! :D
Before Japanese invented guitars...philipines tribe warriors are already playing music instrument from guitars ,to drums and more or less strings..but when Spanish came all trees and woods are destroyed and used by Spain to make galleon SHIPS..
Wow! Thanks, Chris. I’m going to take some Yamahas for a test drive the next time I hit the guitar shops.
From my blind listening I will take the Yamaha. The notes are more defined. Years ago I sold my D35 and bought a Canadian made Laravee for its sweeter and more defined mid and upper range. As a bluegrass guitar the Martin is hard to beat
I bought the FG9R after a long search. I compared it to some Martin and Lakewood models, but the Yamaha sounds much better. In the end I had to choose between the FG9R and a Lakewood model. Lakewood also makes amazing guitars.
I have to admit that the YAMAHA sounds more balanced and full. To be honest I didnt expect that.
I don't think a Martin Dreadnaught is meant to be balanced, haha. Dreadnaughts have a strong base, and the high end comes through, but the mid-range is super scooped. This is particularly true of Martins, which have a stronger bass than any other brand. That's the appeal though. Personally the only Martin I own is an OM-28, which is a much more balanced guitar, though I'd love to ALSO own a Dreadnaught if I had the money to throw away.
I hope this doesn’t seem harsh. This was a lazy preparation for a comparison. Because the one thing you could control was the strings. Both guitars should have had the same coated strings yo@@installed.. There is a massive sound difference between production non coated and coated strings.
I vote for a revised comparison.
Martin fan detected :P
Kidding.. no hate
He made more mistakes playing the martin maby trying to get rid of the Yamaha?
The Martin still wins for me for string to string balance and it still has that hardness and special resonance in its midrange and overall response that all the competition lacks. The upper frequencies of the HD-28 is still thicker and punchier compared to the Yamaha that’s brighter and thinner. If you prefer a different sound than the Martin then go with Yamaha or a competitor. But for that price I have much more affection for the Martin for tone, punch and confidence in its longevity in the long run. Great demos!
If Chris was right, and the Yamaha has lighter gauge strings, that could account for the thinner/brighter sound. I’d like to see them put the same strings on both guitars and do the comparison again
Equalized strings would probably make the guitars sound indistinguishable on TH-cam. Of course as the strings age, the sounds of guitars would deviate. I would not buy an expensive guitar based on impressions with new strings - not being a professional.
@@emergerflyfishing they can use medium gauge as i heard 😅 fr other guitar players on TH-cam etc
Yen is cheaper than USA dollars 😢 but why is Yamaha cost mucho 😅
I have a similar feeling about a J45 and a Taylor 517 as I do with this. I think the Taylor sounds better and easier to play, but it hasn't been on hundreds of classic songs. This one is easier for me though. The Martin has that Martin sound and that is the standard.
I’ll be keeping my HD28 FOREVER! The tone of the HD28, in my opinion, is the tone everyone else is chasing.
chase away. ! go martin
I have a HD-28 and a D-18 . I’ve never had the opportunity to play a really good Yamaha. This one looks and sounds amazing.
Martin has its signature tone. No doubt the Yamaha sounds great but it’s a different tone. All great sounds.
If you can find any, try some vintage L-Series Yamaha's. I particularly love the late 70s-early 80s L models. The new FG9 is not the first high-end instrument for Yamaha. The current LL-26, LL-36, and LL-56 are unbelievable. I would have a hard time going for the FG9 over the other options that Yamaha have.
I recently bought my second Yamaha acoustic, an FSX5. If they had announced an FS9 I likely would have waited for that!
Martin for me, but as a HD28 owner I’m definitely biased. If I wanted another rosewood/spruce guitar with a contrasting sound I’d definitely consider the Yamaha. But then it would be up against Gibson & Taylor’s … all great brands 🤔
Excellent comparison! Thank You! Bought my wife a solid wood Yamaha OM about 32 years ago and it still plays great! I'm impressed with the Yamaha featured here. I realize tone is subjective, and for me I found the Martin to possess a more distinctive and somewhat richer and warmer bass and mid-range without being muddy. Also, during the strumming it seemed to me that the notes projected with a bit more individual clarity or balance overall. The Yamaha had great projection I thought and a beautiful sound with amazing sustain. However, I felt it was a bit thinner on the bass and mid-range and produced more of a "bell-like" sound overall. Also, during strumming it seemed to me to lose some of the individual clarity in comparison to the Martin. Both are excellent instruments each with their own "personality"! I believe the price tag on the Yamaha is fair price for such an instrument of this quality! I currently own a 1990 Martin HD-28 BLE (Brazilian Limited Edition) and I absolutely love it and I will never part with it. Years ago, I owned a 1943 Martin 000-28 (Brazilian Rosewood) and had to let it go due to hard times and regretted it ever since. Thank You so much for sharing this! Enjoyed your presentation very much!
Great comparison. The Martin had a slightly deeper tone to my ears, but the Yamaha sounded better overall in my opinion.
I own a Yamaha FGX5, and have nothing but great things to say about it. Excellent instrument.
Both of these guitars sound amazing! When I listen to guitars that are “an homage” to Martin, even the ones like this one which are on par with materials and construction methods, there is just something about the Martin that just speaks to me. The resonate bass…the fact that the sound comes from the wood more than it does from the strings. They feel to me like they are not trying to prove anything. They just are…. That famous Martin sound. I think I will always prefer it. But this Yamaha is truly amazing.
I bought a Yamaha FG-9R and I already have a Martin CS 21-11.
Both are incredible good guitars.
The new FG-9R sounds so mesmerising and magical. I highly recommend IT to the toughest hard core Martinists and to all members of the Holy Church of C.F.M.!
The music store near me doesn't currently have any FG-9s yet, but they did have a FGX-5 that I played and that was a nice guitar. I sold my FG840 last year. I really miss that guitar. Had it for 7 years and it was my guitar I learned on.
My first guitar was a 1967 Yamaha fg 180 red label I bought new for 100 dollars when I was 12. I still own it and it sounds fantastic! I also have a 1984 HD/28 Martin I bought used for 1200 dollars. It sounds great also! Not better just different. I love them both. Thank you God! I will never sell either.
Other than a quickly ill-fated Sears Silvertone in my early teens, my first steel string was a 1971 Yamaha FG-180 Red label as well - at 17yo, new! I should still have that, but it stayed with me as my main guitar for 20 years, in its later years with me interspersed with a couple of great Takamines, accompanied ultimately by a D-28... Given to a friend, and was glad to see it have a home with him, I still miss that Yamaha!
To my ears the Yamaha was a little better. The instrument sounds more connected through each register and it was a far superior guitar for fingerstyle. The Martin is a classic sound with standout bass tones but I didn’t feel the same connection between registers. Either way you can’t go wrong but I prefer the more modern sounding Yamaha
It would be interesting to compare them with both same Elixir strings!
My first acoustic guitar was a mid-70s FG-160. I've always respected their instruments. You're right, they do sound noticeably different. The Yamaha strikes me as a more open, "airy", jumbo sort of sound, while the Martin seems to have more "density" to the sound, which my ear seems to prefer. But I only heard this in the first couple of demo segments. My present acoustic (still have the FG-160 in high strung tuning) is a Taylor GAMC -- essentially an early, limited edition 514. I'd like to get a rosewood body acoustic someday, and I'm enjoying your informative, comparison videos @Alamo Music Center. I would certainly include Yamaha in the mix for my next purchase.
This was a really good review of these 2 guitars. Thanks.
Yamaha is a class company. I own a phenomenal Yamaha piano and a solid silver bodied student flute. The new FG series was designed in concert with an American luthier, Yamaha was able to scale his design up for production with all the finest tooling and computer technology, adding some nice Japanese designs for the fretboard and rosette along the way. I learned all of this here on TH-cam. Also, my dreadnought is an ‘89 Alvarez Yairi DY-90 in Brazilian Rosewood which is awesome. Also have a Japanese classical. And a Korean Epiphone jazz box. So I’m entirely pro-Asia, guitar wise. But … I liked the HD-28 in this comparison. Maybe it was the lovely thumping low E that Chris pointed out. Overall, the Martin delivered a pleasant, classic sound.
Thanks for a great and very interesting comparison, well done! I love the FG9 Yamaha, sounds a bit less stiff and more "singing" than the Martin I think to hear from the video. Should try them live. I love both brands, I have always played my Martin D35, lots of festivals and recordings. But there is more than just Martin, which has always been my dream instrument. My wife plays a 90´s Martin M36, amazing guitar, for Bluegrass as well as anything else. I got a Yamaha LL36 for my birthday, 3 years ago and it is an amazing guitar, so beautifully built, so great sounding and playing! Perfect. Besides that I now very often take out my just as amazing Boucher BG152GM, wow! Adirondack top, as well as my Collings D42A. Then also my Collings CJ IRW is incredible. The D42A is stunning to see, a bit too focussed, loud and brutal. The CJ is fuller and warmer. I am truly spoiled, sorry. Hard to say which one is the best, possibly the Boucher, but I love them all and play them all. I still have to find out what are the differences between the Yamaha FG´s and the LL´s.
I already bought the fg9r Chris. They come with elixir 80/20 light gauge. I replaced the strings with pb elixir but i went back to 80/20 as it sounds a lot better.
The Yamaha sounds like a Taylor. Hard to beat the great sound of a Martin. 4K for a Yamaha - C’mon man.
I just bought a LL26, love the idea that its a one person hand built instrument all solid wood guitar, after doing some reseaech im willing to give it a try, i wanted a Martin but figured thats a mass produced guitar and it seems to me the Value in the Yamaha is of higher quality and personal touch and attention to detail
I own a Martin D-28 and would have to say it depends what type of music you play. I love the warm tone of the Martin and think it can’t be beat for bluegrass flat picking.
That said, I play other styles of music and feel the upper end Taylor’s have great tonal qualities and are a lot more versatile. I would have to play the Yamaha to see how it compares to an 814 Taylor
I have a 30-year-old HD28, which I love. To my ears, the 2 guitars in this demo sound very similar to each other. I prefer the Yamaha here. I like the increased sparkle in the higher registers. The Martin in the demo (and my HD28) both have somewhat muted highs, which can sound great in some contexts, but I often miss some high end.
Both are great guitars. I have the Martin D35 and the Yamaha FG5.
They both sound great!
Great review as usual - and really dig the shoutout to the mighty 89-95 SHO!
Yamaha sounds great, but I expected that as I own two Yamaha guitars and one Yamaha bass. They make very good instruments indeed. I think I prefer the sound of the Yam over the Martin, though both are exquisite. The only thing that might edge me towards the Martin would be the potential resale value
If I recall Lee Ritenour has played Yamaha acoustics for decades and refers to them as the Japanese Martins.
I have an HD-28 and had Martin factory install the Fishman elec pickup during a recent repair. The Harringbone sound is awesome.
If you had to own one single guitar, not matter the guitar, your only guitar sould be the HD-28. If you get a second guitar, well that's up to you and I won't impose upon you. A lifelong friend told me this, and he is right.
If I wanted a Japanese Guitar I would get a 1962 Aria A500 Classic, which I happen to own. I've been offerred over $4000 cash in hand twice when I let someone play that one. The TONE is special on that Aria I wrote Aria and they know the Japanese master who made it, but not much more; Aria has changed ownership about 4-6 times since the 50s/60s when they made some exquisit instruments. If you can score one, do it.
Otherwise stick with the Martin HD-28.
A Fender Strat 2021 Denim or a real Gibson would be a fine Electric choice before going custom shop made;)
Of these two examples it is the Yamaha for me. Thanks for the comparison.
I liked Yamaha the most, it has more high frequencies and brightness in the sound than Martin. Martin is Martin, nothing bad about it. But the Yamaha sounded better in this comparison. Great video! Thank you!
I like the warmth of the treble strings on the Martin. And the Martin has a much nicer upper register in terms of sound quality. I don't know if it is the bolt on neck, but Taylor also has that thin nasal tone in their treble strings. Martin for me in this comparison.
yamaha thin and bright yet costs more
@@soofitnsexy No offense to the Chris, but I believe the "thin nasal" tone you are hearing is the player, not the guitar. The Yamaha's Adi top is much stiffer and tighter than the Martin's Sitka top. The Adirondack top needs to be "pushed" a little before it will yield the sparkling tone they are known for. I don't think Chris was digging in enough to make the FG9 "sing". These are both amazing guitars (obviously), but I have heard the FG9 being played by a couple of really amazing players, and to me, it produces all the warm, deep bass response everyone expects from a quality dreadnought, but still retains the upper mid and high end sparkle that I haven't heard from many other dred's except maybe some super high end boutique drednoughts, like Bourgeois. I think I'm going to have to get one of these.
i appreciate u! Ive owned many high end collings bourgeoise several martins but never an Adi top!! have u played one in person! happy holidays from nyc@@richardstones6445
@@richardstones6445 Adirondack top will only add overtones to the existing frequency spectrum as it ages and opens up. It cannot add more base as that frequency is simply not there on the FG9. So you can play the FG9 for 100 years and it still won't sound as a Martin on the low end, and never will.
No doubt the tops will open up with age - both Adi as well as Sitka. But I can hear (and feel) a difference in these two tone woods on brand new guitars. I have a Martin 000-28 MD, and an OM guitar with an adi top from Bourgeois. The adi top is just much tighter and stiffer. I get a totally different vibe from each guitar when I really dig in and play aggressively. I'm not any kind of expert, especially with Dreadnought guitars, but when I sat in front of one being played, my ears didn't miss any of the low end that I hear in Martin's. Interestingly, one of the guitars that was being played was a Martin 28 style dreadnought with an Adirondack top. I was really trying to pay attention to the low end response between these two, and honestly I thought the FG9 held it's own in that regard. @@captainnemo9628
Listening to this video with Sennheiser HD595 headphones I there is something wrong with the sound of both E strings on the Yamaha. I have a 1991 L series and it doesn't have that problem. The Martin sounds perfect.
So where and how do the LL36 and LL56 fit into all of this?
That's a very good question! Maybe the boys will address it in a future vid... 🙂
The d28 just has a unique sound that is hard to describe, but it just stands out. That said, in one portion of the guitar passages, I thought the Yamaha really sounded much better than the Martin. I am in the market for a new guitar, and I have been considering the HD 28. The playability differences were interesting, and the last thing I want is an expensive guitar that is hard to play. I do prefer medium guage strings, but they can be harder to play. The Yamaha is more expensive. Whatever, when I go out to sample guitars, I definitely will look at the Yamaha (and I've been a fan of this brand guitar for years). Great video, thanks.
I while back I was analyzing what exactly is I listen for when choosing a guitar, and the conclusion I came to is this. Some guitars I hear the string more than the "wood", some the wood more. I prefer hearing the wood, and the Martin does that for me
Just bought a second-hand high-end Yamaha: a 2021 LJ26. Booming low end and super smooth neck with lovely ebony fretboard; beautiful fit and finish, gorgeous rosewood back and sides. Not cheap (similar price to a D-18), but no questioning its quality.
I thought both of the guitars in this vid sounded great and both look great, though I think the Martin looks a tad nicer. Everyone agrees the FG9 is a phenomenal guitar, but it is damn pricey.
I love my Vintage Yamaha's, this looks like a modern version of my solid wood 1975 Japan made FG580 guitar. They are highly unknown and underappreciated. Would for sure buy this rosewood FG model.
Awesome comparison, Yamaha surprised me, however, Martin forever :)
My top best list brand presently:
1. Yamaha (nothing can beat its sound in its price segment)
2.Taylor and Martin
3. Gibson
Super cool that you don't edit out the... Teensy mistakes? Very honest and I appreciate it. Also appreciated the breakdown about it after.
I have a D28 but that Yamaha is the best acoustic I've ever played.
Your notes about the higher action and tackier medium strings ring true for me! I played a bunch of guitars the other day to see if Martins were as good as everyone says, and while the sound was superb, the ones at the store didn't feel as playable as the other guitars I tried out-at least not right off the wall!
Excellent video. My take away is the opposite of what I thought it would be. I'm a big Yamaha fan, and I thought I would like the FG9 better, especially for the fingerstyle playing. To my surprise, except for the booming 6th string, I like the warmer sound of the D-28 a little more for fingerstyle. On the other hand, I thought the D-28 would sound better with the flat-picking. For me, it was the opposite. I prefer the FG9 sound over the D-28 when flat-picked. The FG9 has more presence and clarity. The acoustic guitar is such an intimate instrument, to choose one over the other you would have to just go by brand preference, or do what Chris is doing: Try them side-by-side.
I am generally a Martin lover, but the Yamaha just sounds better. Thank you for the comparison.
I fit your point exactly, Chris. I was biased toward the Martin going into this, but the Yamaha was clearly better for the 2d and 3rd pieces you played, to my ears. The Martin sounded best in the 1st and 4th pieces. Bottom line for me would be “made in America” because that’s how I roll. I really enjoyed and appreciated this head-to-head comparison. It certainly opened my eyes to the quality coming out of Japan. Thank you. Can we have more of these?
Awesome guitars. Own a couple Yamaha's and they are terrific guitars. Considering purchase of FGX5/FSX5 red label. If had $4k in hand and had to choose think I maybe would like D-28 modern deluxe.
exactly - Martin MD series vs. 4k for Yamaha - that is no-brainer - and in terms of holding value - nothing to talk about
If I'm paying that much, I want the best sound... Yamaha all the way.
Yessir!
Martins are well know for their binding issues. I own LL16D since 2017, and now considering LS56 ARE custom II.
Yeah why don't they fix that? Such a small fix to improve a monster brand you'd think
Excellent review! Two lovely guitars each with its personal tone "signature". With me it would likely come down to playability. I do own a couple of Yamaha guitars and a piano. Great fan.
Ditson invented the shape when they asked martin to make a few guitars for them. These were smaller but were dreadnaughts none the less. Good review. I am looking at a used Yamaha fg9 for 1600 right now and am going to buy it
Ditson was the client of Martin.
Amazing video Chris!!! Thank you.
Thnx for another nice video/content. I love Yamaha guitars. Playing an LL6X, even i couldn't manage to record as i hear, i like the natural sound. Last week i played D18 street legend which was awesome. Someone may like a sound of a cheap F310 someone may like an expensive Martin or Taylor. No one can ask why you like blue or why you like green. But you cant see legends playing Yamaha acoustics on stage. For sure they are both super guitars and sound good. Does a Mexican Tele sounds bad, no. But can't beat an American Tele. That is image and branding. First thing you do is looking at the back of the head if its made in Japan, Mexico or US. If Revstar Standard series made by fender it will blow the market.... Yamaha needs a new sub brand or rebranding. By the way I listened the test with HS8 monitors its a deuce for me. Looking forward to a new video....
With the exception of his 12 strings, John Denver almost exclusively played Yamahas, albeit I'm sure custom made for him. Similarly Dan Fogelberg, solidly Martin dreadnoughts for his acoustic six-strings for his 30+ year career, in the late 80s had Yamaha build him a custom one-off "L-41X" signature,..I'm sure an ode to his primary D-41 which Martin also made a limited signature of (and used that Yamaha for some recording including reportedly his rendition of George Harrison's 'I Need You') - as well I'm sure at his level "just because." His personal guitar was sold on R***** awhile back, originally from the Gruhn shop...And, I believe he used a Yamaha as a converted tenor guitar on some of his songs. For sure, the traditional American icons still get most of the notice, but respect and recognition has been there for some time for Yamaha (and Yairi, Takamine etc) by "those in the know."
Choices are always good!
What mic are you using to mic the guitars sir?
I own and alternate between playing a Martin D28 and Yamaha LL16D, plus have owned my fair share of guitars over the past 50 years. Sound-wise, both can easily justify being in anyone's arsenal and match each other tonally, while sounding so different, but IMHO you get more bang for buck from Yamaha guitars and re-sale value is pretty good too. I don't care where an instrument originates or what name tag it carries as long as the sound it makes is good.
enjoyed this crazy comparison thx
Another cracking comparison Chris!
I own an FG5 and I’m very happy with it. I’ve owned a D18 and a D28. The 18 was great, the 28 had a neck angle, from the factory, that was unacceptable from a builder like Martin. It had to go back, and I was disappointed because I had never owned 28 before. My FG5 was $1450. It makes me wonder what Yamaha will squeeze into the line between the 5 and the 9 and for how much?
I have a 1935 Martin guitar, the year it was made. It is a smaller Martin. It is a 00-17. It has a mahogany body with a rosewood neck. I would like to know what it's worth. It has been in our family since 1965. The neck is thinner and very easy on the fingers to play.
Nope - wrote the Yahama off because I already have an HD-28.
BTW - I don't recall the fellow that ran Alamo Music back circa 1980, or even if there is a here-to-then connection, but he sold a sound system to me (and a friend or two) that we gigged with for a couple of years in San Antonio and the surrounds. For those who might have been around, the name of the band was "Blaze". We went for that couple of years, then imploded as bands often do.
The Martin sounds LOVELY and the Yamaha sounds LIVELY and JOYFUL.
I would love trying both versions of the Yamaha.
As I mentioned before, why Martim has more bass... Because all Martin dreadnoughts have Medium strings 13-56, while Yamaha uses Light strings 12-53. Adirondack top from Yamaha also contributes to a brighter tone
Great video, does anyone happen to know the name of the song that is being fingerpicked?