Dont think twice ... They both are stunning instruments but if I should go for recording in the studio and had to choose one of them, I should go for the SJ200.
@@SirOttis I know what you mean but there maybe two things to mention here .... first: the set up of your mics in the studio ... second: I agree with preferring mahogany ... that’s why I prefer a mahogany J45, a J100 or a D18 in the studio above rosewood guitars :) ... they are less booming ...
Love these comparison videos. Both guitars sound great!! I recently purchased an SJ-200 and have fallen in love with it, it inspires me to play! Love the Martin guitar sound but I chose the Gibson. Just my personal preference…you can’t go wrong with either one!
Both guitars sound well, only that Dreadnought rumbles a lot, can't separate frequencies as cleanly and as pretty as the Jumbo. It's the nearly rectangular shape of the Dreadnought top that does not allow more variety in vibration, clarity and separation, regardless what manufacturer makes them. Indeed, you need both.
@@piotrkarpienia4779 You headphones have V shape frequency curve. Which is common these days. Use studio monitor headphones with flat frequency response.
@@piotrkarpienia4779 Of course they sound differently. But the dreadnought can't physically separate the frequencies as well as the jumbo. It's physics. Dred will always sound "boomier" because the middle range frequencies are never separated enough, never airy enough with enough of details. But for some music that is required.
The Martin sounds very full and has more bass and horsepower. More volume. More overtones. The Gibson is very crisp and blanced. Excellent for recording, it cuts through like a knife. The maple work very well in combination with the large jumbo body. I bought an SJ-200 from tfoa years ago, that Coen selected it for me. Both are great guitars! Both are excellent, and
D-41 is an amazing bluegrass guitar. SJ-200 is a jumbo that has made its name through country western music as a big strummer. Not really a fair comparison except for price.
Two great guitars... You need to have them both... I don't have exactly these models... But I have a SJ200 Standard VS and a 1996 Martin D 45 Commemorative... I love them both...
Impossible to choose off course... I like them both but the SJ200 is my fav. And I always think the 41 style is somewhere in between.... I like either the stern D28 or the extravagant D45 style
I have watched this a bunch of times. I have a D41 and a Collings D1A, but this demo makes me want to go buy a SJ200. Only comment - the SJ200 is priced like a D42 not a D41, it looks like to me anyway the price is $6K for that historic line guitar vs $4800 for the Martin. So I don't feel so ashamed that the Gibson ... heck lets be honest guys... it trounces the Martin in this demo. Trying to find one for sale lol I can find a couple adi topped versions but maybe that would be too bright - the adi + maple. your sitka + maple is the one.
I would recommend you go for the Hummingbird, especially for singer/songwriter stuff. It's the best of the two worlds, it's a Gibson and a dreadnaught, and it's sound it's iconic for that kind of stuff. Cheers!
Both stunning !!! I have a 2014 D-41 that I prefer over the reimagined model but the Gibson sounds incredible as well . I don’t know I would trade it cause I have a J 45 as well for that authentic Gibson sound . Great comparison... Thanks 🙏
Three years ago my favourite would have been the Martin D-41 for sure. However, over the years I started to enjoy other tonal qualities in guitars. The Martin has the brightness I loved so much, but the Gibson has the warmth and ‘old’ (?) sound I’m craving for now. 😊
sj200. Today I was in a guitar store and played a used sj200 then I played every high end martin around. Most of the Martins sounded like $200 guitars compared to the gibson. Maybe its my ear but I cant believe how rich the sound is on the SJ200. I do love bass and lower frequencies so that could be the reason, but the gibson sounded so rich and beautiful......
I have a 2018 D-41, and it's the most amazing guitar. This video doesn't do these guitars justice. There is something about the space you are recording in that has a nasty echo that is masking the sound of these great guitars.
I have them both + hummingbird true vintage .. love them all BUT , the Martin D41 have this crisp sound ...............hard to choose between your baby’s but I’ll say it . MARTIN D-41 ALL THE WAY .
I owned the D35E reimagined - great sound; but I also long to own a SJ200 - have both will be best! (Currently waiting for a seller to let go his SJ200 based on my offering price ;))
The Gibson has a Fuller and Rounder sound than the Martin! I guess it’s a matter of individual preference but I personally prefer the “fatter” sound of the Gibson!
i prefer the tone of the sj200 in this particular comparison. seemed more open n the martin sounded a bit choked, like you had to work harder to get the sound out of it. both are beautiful, i've played both and the gibson is my dream guitar
In all honesty, when you are in the room you will find the Martin has a much more rich sound and more volume then the SJ200... I had a change to play a SJ200 agains a Lowden O23 in Denmarkstreet London and yeah the Lowden is a much better instrument, as is the Martin in volume and tone complexity... But neither the Martin or the Lowden offer the iconic guitar sound you recognize from the movies and all the old records. After playing 'Wake up Little Suzy' I was sold for the SJ200... its on top of my list... for one day :-D
I have both guitars. I prefer the Gibson as it has a much deeper sound and extremely nice to play. Whilst the D41 is also wonderful. I play both as much as I can. Meanwhile I also have a Lakewood D32 which is imposing sound. I have a Martin D15 all mahogany very light and crisp.. I have a 12 strings Larivee which is super. Lastly my Taylor 820 a work horse been everywhere with me. Overall the Gibson is my favourite.. Colin Whiting Durban South Africa...
It would be cool to do a comparison between sj200 and a guild f55. See which jumbo better. Otherwise the Martin wins for sound and quality. Them blummin mushtash bridges lift up. Don't like the Gibson for that reason.
They ruined the D-41!!! The reimagined model is a disaster in my humble opinion! I have a pre reimagined D-41 That blows the new one away … I’ll take the Gibson please….
You know, I just sold a Gibson hummingbird. A beautiful guitar, but I felt it looked and felt cheap when compared to my less expensive Martin Special 16 Rosewood. I mean, what passes as binding was badly finished and the plastic tuners felt cheap AF. Not to mention the fact that the hideous sticker you mention, didn’t match the serial number in the back of the headstock which is something I found out when I went to sell it. Gibson fixed the issue, but a quality control issue like that, didn’t speak well about the company.
![เป็นไปได้ไหม - WanMai [Teaser] | 05-12-24](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/P5Uto6e453w/mqdefault.jpg)
Dont think twice ... They both are stunning instruments but if I should go for recording in the studio and had to choose one of them, I should go for the SJ200.
It's alright.. ;)
@@thefellowshipofacoustics ... well it ain't no use to sit and wonder why ..... ;) :)
You would have to roll off 95% of the bass recording with a J200 honestly. You would be better off with a mahogany Martin in the studio.
@@SirOttis I know what you mean but there maybe two things to mention here .... first: the set up of your mics in the studio ... second: I agree with preferring mahogany ... that’s why I prefer a mahogany J45, a J100 or a D18 in the studio above rosewood guitars :) ... they are less booming ...
SJ200 i choose! No doubts!
I'm late to the party here, but great comparison/review. And remember: Good Ol' Boys play Martins. Bad Boys play Gibsons. Choir Boys play Taylors.
Think you´re right. I play a Takamine.
Nice comparison gents, there's just something about the SJ200. Winner for me!
Thanks Timothy!
Love these comparison videos. Both guitars sound great!! I recently purchased an SJ-200 and have fallen in love with it, it inspires me to play! Love the Martin guitar sound but I chose the Gibson. Just my personal preference…you can’t go wrong with either one!
Only a Gibson is good enough...! Congrats on the new guitar, enjoy :)
Both guitars sound well, only that Dreadnought rumbles a lot, can't separate frequencies as cleanly and as pretty as the Jumbo. It's the nearly rectangular shape of the Dreadnought top that does not allow more variety in vibration, clarity and separation, regardless what manufacturer makes them.
Indeed, you need both.
Actually Gibson is too heavy on bass, i listen to the video on headphones and Martin is way more balanced and has better highs.
@@piotrkarpienia4779 You headphones have V shape frequency curve. Which is common these days. Use studio monitor headphones with flat frequency response.
@@zvonimirtosic6171 actually I listened on DT 770 and 990 Pro so.....youre wrong ;)
@@zvonimirtosic6171 + Martin has more midrange but....both guitars are great. They just sound different
@@piotrkarpienia4779 Of course they sound differently. But the dreadnought can't physically separate the frequencies as well as the jumbo. It's physics. Dred will always sound "boomier" because the middle range frequencies are never separated enough, never airy enough with enough of details. But for some music that is required.
The Martin sounds very full and has more bass and horsepower. More volume. More overtones. The Gibson is very crisp and blanced. Excellent for recording, it cuts through like a knife. The maple work very well in combination with the large jumbo body. I bought an SJ-200 from tfoa years ago, that Coen selected it for me. Both are great guitars!
Both are excellent, and
...none is better than the other.
Does the compression used by TH-cam make any comparison of two similar sounding guitars impossible to discern?
D-41 is an amazing bluegrass guitar. SJ-200 is a jumbo that has made its name through country western music as a big strummer. Not really a fair comparison except for price.
Maybe not 'fair', but it is a question we receive in our store very often because they have such a similar price!
I own a D41 but looking for an SJ200 true vintage
Did this video confirm that craving? ;)
Two great guitars... You need to have them both... I don't have exactly these models... But I have a SJ200 Standard VS and a 1996 Martin D 45 Commemorative... I love them both...
Great collection you've got going there Markus, great stuff!
Impossible to choose off course... I like them both but the SJ200 is my fav. And I always think the 41 style is somewhere in between.... I like either the stern D28 or the extravagant D45 style
Both a cut above and the guitars are great too!
Thanks so much!
Great Review as per usual! My preference, no doubt the SJ200.
Thanks Chris! :)
I have watched this a bunch of times. I have a D41 and a Collings D1A, but this demo makes me want to go buy a SJ200. Only comment - the SJ200 is priced like a D42 not a D41, it looks like to me anyway the price is $6K for that historic line guitar vs $4800 for the Martin. So I don't feel so ashamed that the Gibson ... heck lets be honest guys... it trounces the Martin in this demo. Trying to find one for sale lol
I can find a couple adi topped versions but maybe that would be too bright - the adi + maple. your sitka + maple is the one.
It sure is the one... It's absolutely stunning and to be honest, Gibson has really stepped up their game.
To make the guitars both sound better, you might try strumming right in the center of the sound hole.👌
To me, the sound of Martin's far superior.
The d41 has that iconic bluegrass sound, however when that pick started on the sj, wow I have to get one.
What would you go for the SJ200 vintage or the new Hummingbird 1960 vintage for singer / songwriter stuff?
Personally, the SJ200! Really depends on your playing style though.
I would recommend you go for the Hummingbird, especially for singer/songwriter stuff. It's the best of the two worlds, it's a Gibson and a dreadnaught, and it's sound it's iconic for that kind of stuff. Cheers!
Both stunning !!! I have a 2014 D-41 that I prefer over the reimagined model but the
Gibson sounds incredible as well . I don’t know I would trade it cause I have a J 45 as well for that authentic Gibson sound .
Great comparison... Thanks 🙏
Thanks for sharing Mario!
Three years ago my favourite would have been the Martin D-41 for sure. However, over the years I started to enjoy other tonal qualities in guitars. The Martin has the brightness I loved so much, but the Gibson has the warmth and ‘old’ (?) sound I’m craving for now. 😊
Taste changes by the years! 😉 Thank you for leaving a comment🫶🏼
sj200. Today I was in a guitar store and played a used sj200 then I played every high end martin around. Most of the Martins sounded like $200 guitars compared to the gibson. Maybe its my ear but I cant believe how rich the sound is on the SJ200. I do love bass and lower frequencies so that could be the reason, but the gibson sounded so rich and beautiful......
The SJ200 does offer lot of bass sound!
The sound of America, both not forgetting the Nathan 5-note Chime Whistle.
Googled that, I didn't know that it had a name. Love it, learned something new today already! :)
I chose the two 😉 , just for one, Gibson for picking and Martin for strummîng
Frankly, a player needs one of each...
I have a 2018 D-41, and it's the most amazing guitar. This video doesn't do these guitars justice. There is something about the space you are recording in that has a nasty echo that is masking the sound of these great guitars.
I have one as well. Wonderful instrument.
And the mic positioning, let's just say it's not the best.
SJ200 4ever!!! but I wish I could have the Martin aswell
The SJ-200 looks huge. Is it difficult to get used to the size?
Surprisingly not! I'm not a big guy, but it offers me lots of stability. It's easier to get used to than a very small guitar to be honest .
OK, thanks. So now I just need to find five or six thousand euros!
@@iannicholls7476 Haha, 'fraid so!
It‘s narrow waist still makes it comfortable even for guys like me (5‘9‘‘). I find it alot more comfortable than a dreadnought .
Country meets Folk
I have them both + hummingbird true vintage .. love them all BUT , the Martin D41 have this crisp sound ...............hard to choose between your baby’s but I’ll say it . MARTIN D-41 ALL THE WAY .
Haha oh yeah! That's great to hear, I love the D41 myself too.
I owned the D35E reimagined - great sound; but I also long to own a SJ200 - have both will be best! (Currently waiting for a seller to let go his SJ200 based on my offering price ;))
Good luck!
A showdown between my two grails!
What’s that first finger style song he plays?
Trambone by Chet Atkins!
@@thefellowshipofacoustics and what is the name of the 2nd song?
@@thepledge5955 Don't Think Twice it's Alright by Bob Dylan!
@@thefellowshipofacoustics thx
Gibson without a doubt
I was a Gibson guy through and through until I got out of my state of denial and realized Martin makes the holy grail of guitars.
Does the SJ 200 original has rolled edge fretboard as the standards?
Yes. I had to buy one to confirm. 😊😅
The Gibson has a Fuller and Rounder sound than the Martin! I guess it’s a matter of individual preference but I personally prefer the “fatter” sound of the Gibson!
In this video sj200, for me!!!!!
Impossible to choose
i prefer the tone of the sj200 in this particular comparison. seemed more open n the martin sounded a bit choked, like you had to work harder to get the sound out of it. both are beautiful, i've played both and the gibson is my dream guitar
D41 for me 👍
Gibson any day, every day over the Martin, however, both sounded very good in this instance. Wahi' Valleys
SJ200 for me
Why 30 seconds
Love the D41
SJ-200. I own a Pre-War Rosewood back and sides. Nothing like it anywhere.
Those are amazing, great choice!
Mic is to close to the soundhole, so both sound a bit dull
Martin HD-28 that i have!
Obvious winner!
They are both amazing guitars, but it’s the D41 for me!
J-200. 😎
SJ 200
I prefer the D41
In all honesty, when you are in the room you will find the Martin has a much more rich sound and more volume then the SJ200... I had a change to play a SJ200 agains a Lowden O23 in Denmarkstreet London and yeah the Lowden is a much better instrument, as is the Martin in volume and tone complexity... But neither the Martin or the Lowden offer the iconic guitar sound you recognize from the movies and all the old records. After playing 'Wake up Little Suzy' I was sold for the SJ200... its on top of my list... for one day :-D
Perfectly put Jurjen! It isn't always about the perfect or 'better' guitar :)
I have both guitars.
I prefer the Gibson as it has a much deeper sound and extremely nice to play.
Whilst the D41 is also wonderful. I play both as much as I can.
Meanwhile I also have a Lakewood D32 which is imposing sound.
I have a Martin D15 all mahogany very light and crisp..
I have a 12 strings Larivee which is super.
Lastly my Taylor 820 a work horse been everywhere with me.
Overall the Gibson is my favourite..
Colin Whiting
Durban
South Africa...
I meant a D15..
Thanks for sharing Colin! How are things over there?
@@thefellowshipofacoustics things seems to be getting better but the world has changed.
So I am allowed to play everyday every single minutes free.
@@colinwhiting733 Good to hear you get to play more often, the world has indeed changed a little...
Dylan sound 🥰
Exactly!
It would be cool to do a comparison between sj200 and a guild f55.
See which jumbo better.
Otherwise the Martin wins for sound and quality.
Them blummin mushtash bridges lift up. Don't like the Gibson for that reason.
GIBSON!
SJ-200
The Martin is like Saturday night and the Gibson is like Sunday morning.
SJ200 hands down.
They ruined the D-41!!! The reimagined model is a disaster in my humble opinion! I have a pre reimagined D-41 That blows the new one away … I’ll take the Gibson please….
As of 2024
The Gibson 57 SJ200 Vintage is $6,299
The Martin D-41 is $5,199
SJ200
Martin D41 wins
Martin D-41 any day ...sounds amazing way better than upside belly Chipson
Sj all day ❤
My guitar is less than 1/3 the price of these guitars but sounds better ( LL16D ).
Rosewood vs maple, the maple sound is thinner and not so deep and more dry.
I would take the D 41( I already have one :-)
I love Martin I do like the D42 better but the Gibson is shouting look at me!🎸🤯🔫
SJ200, that´s Cat Stevens, Everly Bros and Emerson, Lake and Palmer. Martin is Johnny Cash
The SJ any day..
J200 tv !
Gibson please
Torrified kills the top
I prefer the SJ 200 even if I am the proud owner of 4 Martins
Martin all day long
J200…
Harry Potter is Right the d41 is way better. Imo its the hogwarts of Guitars.
Haha thanks Brian. Imagine wearing glasses and not being the chosen one!
Gibson slap a nasty orange sticker in the hole. Martin engrave.....go from there. No contest. Real abalone vs vinyl......shall I go on
You know, I just sold a Gibson hummingbird. A beautiful guitar, but I felt it looked and felt cheap when compared to my less expensive Martin Special 16 Rosewood. I mean, what passes as binding was badly finished and the plastic tuners felt cheap AF. Not to mention the fact that the hideous sticker you mention, didn’t match the serial number in the back of the headstock which is something I found out when I went to sell it. Gibson fixed the issue, but a quality control issue like that, didn’t speak well about the company.
More people own, or want to own a Martin guitar, than any other guitar in the World......f.y.i.
Sorry, but that Gibson is anything but beautiful. Uglier than a hatful of assholes if you ask me.
I'm thinking the Martin is harder to play.I choose the Gibson