What happens when you compare really good apples against really good oranges? You still end up with apples and oranges! I love these comparisons in that I learn so much about both brands. As someone who has both a Martin and Gibson (and play both frequently) I can say that it's a tie with me. But everyone is entitled to their preferences of course. Thanks for these insightful shows and my advice is to play whichever you like, as long as you play it every day!
I worked for Gibson Acoustic for 24 years, so it's a little hard for me to see Martin come out on top on this contest. You know, hard for me to be unbiased. So, I guess I'm not going to argue too much. In fact, I think you may have made a pretty good case for Martin - using the criteria which you chose. But, I beg to differ with you in the area of guitar model selections. You left out so many, like the whole Songwriter line, L-00, Southern Jumbo, etc. and how could you ignore the SJ-200!. And, in terms of different colors, does Martin (or anyone, for that matter) have a wider range of guitar colors than Gibson?
Of all the acoustics I own, half are Martins, and I love them all! While there are no longer any Gibsons in my collection, I owned a Gibson SJ-Deluxe in the mid-70's. It was truly one of the best guitars I've ever played. Rich, balanced tone, and perfect intonation. It was beautiful and loud, and irresistible! Wish I still had it.
Well...I'm not sure about this one. I own and play both Martin and Taylor guitars, and I'm no choir boy. They have very different sounds, and that's the point. All my instruments are different body sizes and shapes as well as different woods. Some are good for playing rhythm, others for accompanying vocals, bluegrass or finger style. If one instrument could do it all (or you only play one way) we would only each have one instrument.
Maybe I can offer some wisdom: as one who has played Martins and Gibsons for over 50 years (!) it depends on the age. I play and own 10 vintage Martins and Gibsons--from the 30s and 40s (and a new custom Martin D45 with Brazilian rosewood). And....I have owne and enjoyed 3 Collings dreads with Adi and Brazilian, but sold them. The vintage Martins and Gibsons deserve all the hype: nothing compares with them. My 30s and 40s Martins and Gibsons are truly awesome....different. I have both at my side, and am thrilled to have them.
Re the tour availability: a few years ago (2013) we dropped in at the Gibson Bozeman plant while passing through Bozeman without an appointment for a tour (yes, Gibson Acoustic was doing factory tours). This was mid-afternoon on a Friday. The main entrance was locked but we saw employees in what appeared to be a break room. We knocked on the door and someone came to the door. We asked about tours and were told that factory tours were done for the day and that we’d need a reservation to get one. We explained that we were from Kalamazoo, MI (the home of Gibson) and would only be in Bozeman that afternoon. After a little hesitation, the employee went to find Gibson Acoustic’s quality control manager (I think the senior manager on site). He listened to our story and gave the four of us a personal tour. Though not all work stations were active on a Friday afternoon, our impromptu host demonstrated what was done at those stations. We had a fantastic experience and will be forever grateful to Gibson’s treatment of us.
Mr. Polecastro, Thank you and your staff for another fine episode of The Acoustic Tuesday show! The topics touched on in this episode were well though out and communicated exceptionally. For me personally, I believe both Martin style guitars and Gibson style (I say style because I am now more into boutique brands) serve great purposes in their unique ways. They both offer fantastic unique sound flavors. There are tones that Gibson styled instruments are known for and vice versa for Martin. Before buying it is best to do your research and play and see what guitar is best for you and the sound you are going for. Thanks again as always! Respectfully, JR North Carolina
When I want Mellow the Gibson soothes the soul with its Mahogany back and side. When I want the boom to be heard and the Grass clear. My Martin "HD-28" hands down be the winner here.
I was fortunate enough to purchase a second hand '73 Martin D-28 that has quite a "bar troubadour" history. I rarely take it out of the case for fear of bruising it. Nonetheless, I hardly have to touch the tuning keys (if at all), regardless of it's length of slumber. It's sound always amazes me and my skill level is barely existent! On the other hand, another used gem I found last year was a Gibson ES-137 standard, with amazingly similar qualities in an electric guitar. I believe we're all blessed that these manufacturers endure and continue to provide us with their amazing instruments, regardless of our skill levels, to enjoy while we're here to appreciate them!
Martin D16 E. Is my dream guitar right now. I have always had a love for Martin guitars, since Johnny Cash played his. This guitar I’m saving for, and will have in two years after I graduate from college. It’s a gift from me to me 🥰🥰😘😘😉😉😉. The Martin D16 E is smaller in body, but has the appeal of a D 28. Check it out 👍
What a fun episode Tony! First, I super appreciate that shoutout with the pic of me walking Frankie with my Acoustic Life hoodie! I do have a treat for ya on the hockey side that I'll send in a future Acoustic Life/Acoustic Tuesday/Guitarsenal post. :-) On the Rock n Roll side of things, of course the acoustic is huge there! I think of Elvis with his Dove and his Martins, John Lennon with his D-28, Dave Crosby with his D-45, Clapton with his 000, Jimmy Page with his Gibsons, and on and on. I'd probably call the artist roster a tie as we could go all day of amazing artists who play one or both of these builders' guitars. In the end, while I love and appreciate both of these guitar companies, I would have to agree with you that Martin wins this one. Great episode!
I got my first Martin (a limited edition 2020 D-18e) almost one year ago today. It is an incredible instrument, and one that I would say was my dream guitar. I’ve played more acoustic guitar this year than I ever have, thanks to this D-18! Then, on Black Friday, Sweetwater had an Epiphone ‘Inspired by Gibson’ wine red J-45 marked way down, and I bought it. These two instruments would seem to be very similar (dreadnaughts, Sitka spruce tops, solid mahogany back & sides) but they really couldn’t be more different. The mojo that bleeds outta that J-45 is incredible. Like someone else said earlier, Martin wins, but Gibson doesn’t lose.
I am a Martin fan first and foremost. But I did notice a bias, on your behalf, towards Martin. My grandson just purchased a new Gibson J45 in Rosewood and the sound this guitar makes was not what I was expecting. I think it was the use of rosewood that made the difference as most Gibson and high end Epiphones are made of mahogany. The rosewood really made the difference in the sound and it really made this guitar sound beautiful. I love his Gibson's sound. Anyways, I am still a Martin fan but do think you are biased towards Martin. Great video though.
I have never owned either but I would have to vote Gibson. I was fortunate enough to take a field trip in middle school and tour the Gibson guitar factory in Kalamazoo back in the 70's. It is the most memorable and best experience I ever had going to school. Maybe one day I can afford one of their guitars.
So Gibson is a better guitar based solely off the fact you toured their factory? Even though Martin's been making guitars a lot longer and invented the dreadnought guitar. They literally invented the dreadnought! I'd most definitely have to go with Martin.
After having owned it for 27 years, I traded my 1978 Les Paul Standard for a new Martin 0-18. It was the instrument that spoke to my heart like no other, and will be here until I die. Points awarded to Martin!
The true "dream guitar" for me is always the next one, but I did just take possession of a Gibson Custom Shop "1942 Banner LG-2." A perfect compliment to my small collection of Martins and a special sounding guitar right out of the box. This one should keep me happy for years to come.
Dana H First thank you for another wonderful show. Always fun and informative. I do feel Martin won the history category because of “provenance”. Legend is great but until you can back it up with proof it’s just hearsay. My first guitar was an inexpensive Epiphone I played with pride. Still have it for sentimental reasons. As a Montanan I do give Gibson a point for keeping Montana people working. I don’t own a Gibson or Martin but play the guitar of my dreams. It is a custom Bittersweet guitar made for me by my local luthier in Hamilton MT. Cedar top, Indian rosewood back and side, mahogany neck and custom note fret markers! There are many great guitars in every price from every maker; a guitar for every taste and budget. To borrow a phrase if you can’t be with the guitar you love, love the guitar your with and play on.
I inherited a 1961 Gibson LG-2 from my dad and I spent a good bit of money to get a professional setup and the frets replaced. It’s my main squeeze. Before the end of the year, I plan to buy a Martin 000-15M. For sentimental reasons, the LG-2 will always be my favorite but I am looking forward to making room in my heart for the 000-15M. I also have a Fender Tele, a Yamaha bass, and a Yamaha A1M acoustic that plays and sounds great. I play the Telecaster the least and I might end up selling it and getting something different.
I agree with your analysis. I play my J45 , Martin 12 string X series alternatively every day. Today I turned 70 years old. I have been a widower since losing my Rachel on March 17th 2016 to cancer I had played guitar during my teenage years however I had set the
I have a Martin GPCPA4R and I love it, love it, love it...did I mention I love it? But my dream guitar is the Gibson Bob Dylan Autographed SJ-200 Collector’s Edition.
Buddy I typically agree with you, but history has to go to Martin on this one! Yes, mystery is one word to use with Gibson, but mess is another. Don't get me wrong...I love Gibsons and their history (I've been on their tour in Memphis), but they clearly don't have the history and tracking that Martin does. Just my opinion on this one. :-)
Good show! A couple of points hit home with me. Your guest talking about Orville Gibson at the beginning is a well known gentleman from the Kalamazoo music scene. He does a lot of work with GLAMA (Great lakes acoustic music association). I have learned from him and played with him at jams and workshops. On another note, you mentioned Weber mandolins, I love my Weber Yellowstone with Cedar top that I got about 15 years ago or so. It is one instrument I will never part with.
Great show Tony. Picked up a j 15 one time Gibson. And hit a note that lasted four days LOL. Not really but it did last for a long time and played really easy best guitar ever picked up. Had Walnut back and sides plain but pretty. Over the years Every Time I Think of the best guitar I remember that one!
As a retired Manufacturing Engineer I have maybe a different take on the comparison between Martin and Gibson. Manufacturing processes are graded on their maturity. Process maturity is the compilation of many subtle pieces, however the end result is the ability of a manufacturing process to (accurately) repeat. So each time a shop moves to another building, these processes have to be resurrected, and messaged to get back to a level of maturity that is repeatable (again). In my opinion, advantage: Martin. Side note: the process documentation is also key.
I agree with you that .artist seem to be more consistent. I have read reviews and they are all over the place with Gibson, from glue drips, rough fretwork, etc.
I agree with the overall winner but have comments on two of the matchups. First, I think using Keith Richards as the rock representative was a good choice BUT, like Johnny Cash, Keith played both Martin’s and Gibson’s. I’ve often seen pictures of him playing his Martin 00-21 on stage. This one should have been a tie instead of a Gibson win. Second, history should be a Martin win instead of a tie. I think Tony put too much emphasis on the strange quirks around the Gibson history instead of the longer and richer Martin history.
I had a ‘73 Gibson J50 beautiful intonation absolutely spot on, also had a 73 Martin D28 saddle had to be routed back about 1/4-3/16” back almost into the pins to get the intonation perfect, after that it had an annoying zingy sound had to get it gone sounded terrible. I feel Martin should have replaced it at their cost but no. I feel I was treated very poorly by Martin.
You should really give a triple O a try or a OM model Martin. My first Martin was a dreadnought which sounded wonderful but moving to a triple o the experience was so much on point for me. The thinner body and deeper curved sides makes it so much easier to play. The first guitar I played that felt like a extension of myself. And it sounds beautiful.
@@danielallen7384 I actually traded that D18 for a custom shop 000-18 haha. Adirondack top, plus it’s a shade top finish :) Much more comfortable and exactly what I needed
I played Martin guitars for 40 years. Not one has survived. Bought a CS Hummingbird two years ago and I was hooked. This year an SJ 200 has been added, I must say unmatched!
I own both. And any single acoustic guitar could be better in Gibson or Martin. But as a total all around Guitar producer - yes it's Martin hands down. Gibson has been Great, then poor, then recoverting, and even now just coming back and with notable quality issues that are common place on the internet. Martin on the other hand has been rock solid, one owner, one location, never wavering always a top level producer. I'm glad we have both and competition is good. Down here in Central Texas it's hard to pick you're Hockey Team! Love that you're multi-dimensional.
I'm blessed to have both a Gibson J15 and a Martin 00015m (both great versions of both models)... I love them both and use them for different things. My Martin has this "old timey" thing that is just so cool, and the Gibson is a a workhorse thats played many gigs with me. Fun video, thanks Tony. Here in 2024
"Most Recorded Guitar" should have been a category. Gibson J-45 is the most recorded guitar in history and that is because it is the best sounding guitar in history!
Yes, I agree with your assessment. I have 4 Martins and 2 Gibsons in my acoustic guitarsenal. Oh, and dare I mention a Fender American Elite Telecaster. 😁
Watching this makes me so happy I bought my 1960 D28 Martin,right b4 they started backing off on precious Brazilian Rosewood and revamped their factory!! I wish I ad bought a 3 pc D35 also but money was hard to combine and you needed a day job and a band gig 3 or more nights a week...Besides I needed a Guild 1970 D35(already work of art).Then there was the Fender Jazzmaster,Stratocaster and of course AMPS!!! Fender 100watt Dual Showman w/2 bottoms(each bottom had two 15 inch JBL spkrs!!! Imagine the sound and weight of each cabinet!!! I could throw each bottom in my car like a loaf of bread!! Now I can hardly pick up the 100 watt head!!! Lol lol. I sold it and my gibson echoplex like a fool in 1972.Live and learn.i sold at least 12 or more strats and a 2 Jazzmans!!! Yes I'm a fool.i could be rich mow!! Wow I'm sure I forgot much,!!! Be smarter than me!!! Love all
I live 20 minutes away from the Martin factory and own three Martins. I do love Gibson and own three Gibson electric instruments. When it comes to acoustic guitars there is truly a Martin sound no other instrument matches. I always feel I have to struggle a bit more to play a Martin but it is worth it.
I have a Martin D 28 and a Gibson Advanced Jumbo....the movie "Sophie's Choice" comes to mind...I would never want to have to choose between the two of them...I love them both!
Hi Tony. Been traveling all yesterday (Maryland to Florida) been catching up on your Acoustic Tuesday videos. Signed up for TAC a little over a month ago. I love your training technique. I have singed up for 2 other online programs and never got past the first couple days. I just thought I would mention this. You are so correct in searching for the "best". I use to own a retail store and would get asked all the time, "which one is the best?" My response would always be, ""the one you play the best". It is not about brands, it is about the guitar that you play well and sounds well, the one you have a hard time putting down. Just thought I would share my 2 cents. Great job....
oh well ... that wasn't the kind of video i was expecting when i read the title ... yet ... good vid with loads of detail infos about the brands .... ... i was more looking for ... brand shapes and tones ... comparisson .... not a challenge .... but still ... i loved the vid Keep Rockin!
CF Martin Co. is amazing. I recently purchased a 1996 D-45 with the name of a now-dead famous player on the neck. I called them at Nazareth to ask about it. I gave them the serial number and was immediately connected to the woman who actually inlaid the pearl and headstock on my guitar and who gladly answered my questions. Where else can you have that kind of experience? Steve Stills and Neil Young both play Martins, so what of the R&R category?
I knew Mike Longworth. He was in a band along with my dad many years ago in New Hampshire. Mike played the five-string banjo in the band. It was Clyde and Willie Mae Joy and the Country Folk. My dad went by the stage name Dusty Cal and he was the New England champion yodeler for many years.
Custom shop: that Historic Southern Jumbo is FANTASTIC, but I don't have one. MARTIN gets my vote & sale. You got this correct. Of course, Gibson is changing for the better.
I want to write from my perspective of view. I went to a music store cause i was finally able to buy me a really good guitar. I was just indifferent what Brand i was going to choose so i headed up to gibson first. I played the hummingbird studio rosewood and i literally felt in love directly to the sound and playability. After that i went to Taylor guitars, i was literally disappointed on how these sounded so i headed up to Martin guitars. The sound was brilliant and the look very vlassic but one thing made me turn around ad pick up the Gibson: the playability was awful. I wanted to play as fast as possible but i just couldn't (on the hummingbird it was fine). So i still can't understand why people say martin guitars should be better than gibson, when the playability isn't as smooth as on a Gibson. Maybe i just have a different vision than other guitarists
Just one point, luca853: I have a 1974 Martin D 28 with the most beautiful tone [of course, the dreadnaughts are famous for their full tone]. It is also clad in rosewood, with the back folding open into two pieces of matching grain]. The body fills with a note , notes, or a chord and holds the sound--you can feel that incredible resonance in your hands. But, the big but: when a close friend handed over this beautiful instrument in lieu of a debt of $500, sometime back in the '70s, he had sanded down the saddle to lower the strings closer to the fretboard. I did not realize this until much later. So, in a way your are right about 'playability' [an unfortunately vague term], if what you mean is the high saddle and high strings which make playing chords especially difficult, especially with medium or heavy strings. I go with medium, as light strings really don't produce a decent, full sound worthy of the instrument. All that said, Good playing to you on your fine Gibsons!
I completely agree and had a very similar experience. Went into the shop with a $4k budget not influenced by any brand. Was there the entire day going back and forth between Gibson, Martin and Taylor. The Gibson’s playability was far better than the other two. It’s perfect right out of the box while every Martin I’ve bought had to be brought in to get set up.
The Gibson factory in Memphis, now closed did offer guided tours to the public back in 2012 when I visited. At that time they produced semi-hollow body electric guitars like the ES-335 there.
Yep Martin is the winner! I had the money to buy my dream acoustic guitar. After playing and looking at the options, Martin was the very clear winner for me. Now years later I still and enjoying and loving my Martin Guitars.
I bought my first acoustic guitar in March 16th in response to the pandemic. I bought a Fender. It’s now 6 months later and it’s time to fulfill my heart’s deepest desire. If cost was not an issue, can someone give me suggestions for Gibson or Martin? And what model you would suggest?
Can't go wrong (price not being an issue) with a D-18, 28. The higher numbers if you want the Bells & Whistles for Martins. For Gibson- J45, Hummingbird, Dove when you can find a good one
My dream guitar is currently in the beginnings of being made at Preston Thompson Guitars. It’s a 000-14 BR, Brazilian back and sides, redwood top. Hopefully it will be finished by the end of the year. I can’t wait! 😁
Hey Tony, Can you have a battle between boutique acoustic guitar brand battle? This would let you compare L’arrivee VS Santa Cruz or Bourgeois (this is just a suggestion). I prefer Martin Guitars, because you can guarantee that the sound of a Martin. However, Gibson acoustics are still very good, but not really my style. I hate to end my comment this way to the Acoustic Tuesday Community, but can you have more reviews of acoustic guitars, because your reviews are the best! I just miss them.....
My dream guitar is a Santa Cruz 1934D. Since I haven't won a Stanley Cup and I'm just an average Joe, it will remain a dream. Great analysis by the way.
Tony, my main man... I'm going to have to go with Martin on the documented history. It has nothing to do that I took their factory tour 3 weeks ago... 😁 Their Museum was the high point of the trip, and not actually the factory tour itself. I'm going back in December and plan on spending at least 2 or 3 hours in the museum this time around. There's so much to take in.... (I DO however, agree with your choice in hockey teams!)
@@Southernguitar74 I probably would, however, I couldn't afford my dream guitars, or your guitar for that matter, which is why I'm going to build my own guitars.
Great show Tony. My first guitar was a Martin and I have since acquired a couple more Martins. I look forward to the day that I can afford a nice Martin but as a guitar geek, I also look forward to the day when I can snag an older iconic Gibson as well.
I would have to say I agree with your assessment that found the Martins and the affordable models, Martin is the overall winner. Being a Martin owner notwithstanding, my 1st love was and still in my heart is a Gibson J45. When I looked to upgrade from my 1983 Takamine G330,which I still play, I started checking out Martin and found that a lot of my songwriter friends and musicians used Martin,D-18, D-28, etc. Then I found they had a great selection of great affordable guitars like the D-16GT that I found to be wonderful. But I digress, Lately in innovations have you tried Martin's SC -13E? A new patent pending dovetail neck joint and a player's centric ergonomic profile.On the other hand I love both Gibson and Martin. For what they do. Distinctive and their own sound. One song sounds like it needs a Gibson, another, Martin. I am hoping I can be lucky to have both in my arsenal one day
Hey Tony! Remember the show you did on the 9 guitars you bought after reviewing 500? I do - 6 of them were Martins. And rightly, in my opinion. Apart from anything else, Gibsons would be an immediate fail for me because of the lack of consistency over the years. With the exception of the famous strike, Martin have been an icon of quality control throughout their history. Having said that, at their best, Gibson have produced some fabulous guitars. Thanks
I‘m torn, Tony. Both shops build great guitars, but I think one of the comments you just read rings true; if it sounds good, it is good. Great episode.
Always wanted a Townes Van Zandt Martin D-35, not sure if they made a lot of them or even if you can get your hands on one anymore. I just know it’s one of my dream guitars.
The correct answer to this debate is Guild. But if I have to pick between Gibson and Martin, I'm going Martin everytime. I may be partial to the general Gibson sound, but they don't make a model that doesn't thin out badly up the neck that I've ever played - SJ-200s, J-45s, Hummingbirds, Songwriters, Doves always thin out real quickly up the neck.
Another great episode. If i had to choose between these two, id still have to go with Martin. Not knocking Gibson, i just prefer Martin, which leads to what i would have to pick for a dream guitar. I have always loved the Martin 000-15m. Partly because i am a sucker for an all mahogany body, and mostly because its something different tonally than a dreadnought.
Jonathan Meyer Just to affirm your dream, I have a 000-15m and it has wonderful tone and playability. I prefer it to the D28 that I bought many years early. It took a while for me to develop my preference for mahogany and smaller bodies but is has been my favorite guitar since buying it 2 or 3 years ago. I even love the spartan bling-free appearance and the minimalist diamonds and squares fretboard inlays. For me, the 000-15m is near perfect. I hope you get to pursue one as your dream guitar. It certainly qualifies in my experience.
Like Arthur, I'm also fortunate to have a Martin 000-15M (in the burst finish) and love it for all the reasons stated (and it was my first Martin); it shares time with two other Martins, but like the other two, it'll never be sold. Pretty sure you already understand why.
I’m a big fan of both brands, owning a Gibson LP Custom. But the Martin acoustics are simply the best. Tried a bunch of expensive acoustics from the Big 3 when looking for one, but walked out of the store w a Martin D-15. Tonally it killed Gibson’s and IMHO Taylors at 3-4 times the price. Thanks for a great video!
Everyone compares their guitars to Martin. Nuff said about that. I just got a new Yamaha SFX5 small bodied acoustic electric guitar. I wanted a good finger picker and Wow! Now I have one! ($1,600.00) It was hard to find as the SFX5s are bought up fast for good reason. Japan is taking orders, but the price is going up by almost $800.00 to $2,400.00. I know it's not relevant, but I'm excited and just had to say so. I'm "almost" done acquiring guitars. Not!
I love Martin but always felt like the Gibsons just had a bigger and brighter sound and the neck feels better. Taylor's are cool but sound too bright for my taste.
..great episode ....but I will say you failed to do a " durability " comparison....my Martin D35 stayed in the shop ....braces coming loose etc ....but my Custom Hummingbird has been a tank ....either way , great show ....cheers
exactly, I have been playing both Martin and Gibsons at stores recently, I was shocked how thin the wood was in the Martins , probably why they are a little louder, but it just seemed like an accident waiting to happen, I also prefer the J45 over the D18 sound wise, I do like both though.
Nice thought provoking video, Tony. Chris Martin would tell you to your face that Martin does not do electric guitars well. They do Acoustic only guitars well, and make a stab at an acoustic/electric D-28 and D-18. Gibson makes great acoustic guitars like the L00, J-45, and the J-55. And they make iconic electric solid bodies like the Les Paul, the SG, and even the Firebird. They also have electric/acoustics like the ES-335, and also hollow bodied electrics like the Gibson Byrdland. I dearly love Martin and own a 000-28, but, this is not actually a tie. Unless, you just want to maintain a good relationship with both of them.
Tom. I've owned both top of the line models. They aren't Apples to Apples. Martin creates a very high quality acoustic guitar with their signature sound, and Gibson produces yet another very high quality acoustic guitar with another voice. Martins tend to be articulate and crisp in the frequency register whereas Gibson, has a very magical, and dreamy tone that has a distinct quality and decay all its own. Personally, I prefer -- overall -- Gibsons. But, I will never sell my beloved Martin D-18, which is a beautiful sounding instrument. However, my collection of Gibsons prevails over Martin. This is purely all a matter of choice and personal tonal preference. Yet, the bottom line, IMHO, is that no other guitar manufacturer can reproduce the tone of a Gibson -- whereas, a Martin can be closely replicated, but not to the point of Martin perfection. They are both amazing acoustic guitars.
I watched this video and you got me thinking. Damn it! Now i have acquired Guitar Acquisition Syndrome. Loving that 1942 Southern Jumbo with Rosewood back and sides. $$$$$ is up there. But when you have GAS you have GAS only one way to relieve that. And that is purchase the damn thing. Anywho another thing I was thinking about is this. Just how much difference is there from Brazilian rosewood and East Indian Rosewood that is used mostly today? And here is my thought on how we could address that issue. The older Martins pre war sound great in many ways because of aging of the instrument, and my understanding is that is mostly dependent on the top wood when it comes to aging. So replacing a top on an old guitar it catastrophic in my opinion. So let’s get back to the back and sides. I think an awesome comparison would be the last year of a Martin D45 with Brazilian compared to the first year of a Martin D45 with East Indian. Would that be 69 to 70? Not sure about the timeline, or a 28 would be fine probably easier to set that up.
Hold on…. Martin wins on manufacturing because they give tours? Personally I’d rather my luthier wasn’t having to answer dozens of inane questions while sanding down the neck 😂 Mostly joking. I enjoyed the vid. I have one of each so I love them both. My 00-18 turned me to acoustic from electric it sounded that gorgeous for fingerpicking. And then my J-45 is insane too. Couldn’t pick between them
Martin has always been my dream acoustic guitar,I purchased one and I am highly satisfied with the build and quality and balanced sound, I use it often and will continue to, having said that I was recently out guitar shopping for a nice guitar for my son, we went to a guitar center and went into the high end room and played what they had. I went in expecting to be going home with a nice Martin, but after playing both my son and I agreed the best sounding guitar was a Gibson by a lot, he now plays a Gibson acoustic, and I find myself playing his guitar more than mine now because it has a singing tone not bass heavy but clear! I will keep my Martin but soon I will be buying a nice Gibson acoustic!
As for rock n roll, what about Clapton playing the Martin on hi MTV Unplugged video. What about Kurt Cobain playing the Martin 1959 Martin D-18E on the Nirvana Unplugged concert? Food for thought, my friend.
Used to be diehard Martin, but Gibson accousitics have some kind of magic that took ahold of me. J45 standard is near perfect. Haven't found a single Martin close to the vibes I can get from a Gibson
My favorite that I play is my Blazer and Henke 000-42 waited 3 yrs for it to be built. Worth the wait. I’ll play it for the rest of my life. Martin vs Gibson: I love my 57 Martin 000-21. Clearly I love the 000 body size
I have a baritone voice and played a J-45 Standard in Mahogany (noticeable nice low end but hated the slim taper neck), Taylor (to bright but great neck) Martin D28 Rosewood (balanced and nice neck). The Gibson and Martin would either work. the Gibson low end resonated well with my baritone voice (prob the mahogany back and sides). Would love to see if played Martin D18 it would have been the BEST. I am mainly an electric player but need a nice decent acoustic. Those above might be a tad out of my range $$$. So my question 1) Mahogany back and sides or Rosewood (versatility)???? 2) If your budget was for a Gibson Studio Mahogany/Rosewood OR Martin D16E Mahogany/Rosewood what would you recommend??????
I vote for Martin in all 7 categories. I just cleaned up my D18 (haven't playedit much in a very long time) with the 4 Step D'Addario cleaning kit and put on new Santa Cruz strings and WOW - I never knew it could sound that good. In spsite of that my dream guitar is a Breedlove Oregon Concert CE with the Tiger's Eye burst (limited edition). I'm from Oregon and I'm all about Myrtlewood and sustainability.
This video is soooo biased towards Martin...how much did they pay you?!? You gave them the innovation point? Yes, they basically invented flat top acoustic guitars and revolutionized bracing, but what about arch tops and the truss rod? What about the height adjustable bridges? All the stones and Beatles songs we love were recorded on a 60s Gibson with the plastic adjustable bridge. All of them. Gibson totally wins innovation. Let’s discuss model offering...how in the hell can you claim Martin wins? Every guitar is a 25.5 scale length with just different body shapes. What they do they do well but Gibson has both scale lengths with soooo many different options and aesthetics. The hummingbird, dove, J200, J45, L1...cmon dude. The Gibson custom shop wrecks Martin’s sooo badly. How can you give them the point? Martin stole their historic line idea from Gibson after they started doing it. And 10k for a D45? That’s highway robbery. The top of the line historic pre-war SJ200 is only 6.5k.
It’s funny how a picture of Keith playing a hummingbird decides while he’s often enough stating that he prefers Martin, especially his beloved 00-21. But it’s funny anyway. Gibson scores innovation by far since they do way more that flat top guitars. I love them both but for some reason all of the Martin’s had to go while there are four Gibson’s in the house... Both are great manufacturers!
What happens when you compare really good apples against really good oranges? You still end up with apples and oranges! I love these comparisons in that I learn so much about both brands. As someone who has both a Martin and Gibson (and play both frequently) I can say that it's a tie with me. But everyone is entitled to their preferences of course. Thanks for these insightful shows and my advice is to play whichever you like, as long as you play it every day!
I worked for Gibson Acoustic for 24 years, so it's a little hard for me to see Martin come out on top on this contest. You know, hard for me to be unbiased. So, I guess I'm not going to argue too much. In fact, I think you may have made a pretty good case for Martin - using the criteria which you chose. But, I beg to differ with you in the area of guitar model selections. You left out so many, like the whole Songwriter line, L-00, Southern Jumbo, etc. and how could you ignore the SJ-200!. And, in terms of different colors, does Martin (or anyone, for that matter) have a wider range of guitar colors than Gibson?
I definitely feel like gibson got the raw end of this
Of all the acoustics I own, half are Martins, and I love them all! While there are no longer any Gibsons in my collection, I owned a Gibson SJ-Deluxe in the mid-70's. It was truly one of the best guitars I've ever played. Rich, balanced tone, and perfect intonation. It was beautiful and loud, and irresistible! Wish I still had it.
Agreed. This guy undercut Gibson so much. Martin does one thing really well but Gibson's have such a distinction among them.
"Only a Gibson is good enough"
No question Gibson guitars are the most beautiful, but their hefty price keep me out from buying them. Yeah, I'm a Yammy guy.
I have a Gibson J-45 and a Martin HD-28. Only because I can’t pick between the 2. They both sound so great but also so different!
That's so right!
Yes brother. I have a brand new J-45, but my next guitar will be a Martin 000-18.
Canaan Lawrence dream guitars, both of them... record same part with each and pan... dream sound!
I too have a J-45 and an HD-28. Both are fantastic, but I nearly always play the Gibson. It just feels more at home in my hands.
That's why you have more than one guitar.
Good ole boys play Martin,
Bad boys play Gibson,
And choir boys play Taylor!
So true! John Lennon and his J-160!
@@swansonjoe7121 Except John Lennon played a D-28 a ton! And Elvis played both.
@@MikeTedesco That is also true! I completely overlooked that!
Completely agree!!!!!
Well...I'm not sure about this one. I own and play both Martin and Taylor guitars, and I'm no choir boy. They have very different sounds, and that's the point. All my instruments are different body sizes and shapes as well as different woods. Some are good for playing rhythm, others for accompanying vocals, bluegrass or finger style. If one instrument could do it all (or you only play one way) we would only each have one instrument.
Maybe I can offer some wisdom: as one who has played Martins and Gibsons for over 50 years (!) it depends on the age. I play and own 10 vintage Martins and Gibsons--from the 30s and 40s (and a new custom Martin D45 with Brazilian rosewood). And....I have owne and enjoyed 3 Collings dreads with Adi and Brazilian, but sold them. The vintage Martins and Gibsons deserve all the hype: nothing compares with them. My 30s and 40s Martins and Gibsons are truly awesome....different. I have both at my side, and am thrilled to have them.
My buddy Norman would call you a
" Lucky Dog "....sounds like a great collection
..oww you have one of those.Excellent .
Re the tour availability: a few years ago (2013) we dropped in at the Gibson Bozeman plant while passing through Bozeman without an appointment for a tour (yes, Gibson Acoustic was doing factory tours). This was mid-afternoon on a Friday. The main entrance was locked but we saw employees in what appeared to be a break room. We knocked on the door and someone came to the door. We asked about tours and were told that factory tours were done for the day and that we’d need a reservation to get one. We explained that we were from Kalamazoo, MI (the home of Gibson) and would only be in Bozeman that afternoon. After a little hesitation, the employee went to find Gibson Acoustic’s quality control manager (I think the senior manager on site). He listened to our story and gave the four of us a personal tour. Though not all work stations were active on a Friday afternoon, our impromptu host demonstrated what was done at those stations. We had a fantastic experience and will be forever grateful to Gibson’s treatment of us.
I've got Martins and Gibsons. Like my children, they are all different but I love each one dearly!
Mr. Polecastro,
Thank you and your staff for another fine episode of The Acoustic Tuesday show! The topics touched on in this episode were well though out and communicated exceptionally.
For me personally, I believe both Martin style guitars and Gibson style (I say style because I am now more into boutique brands) serve great purposes in their unique ways. They both offer fantastic unique sound flavors. There are tones that Gibson styled instruments are known for and vice versa for Martin. Before buying it is best to do your research and play and see what guitar is best for you and the sound you are going for.
Thanks again as always!
Respectfully,
JR
North Carolina
When I want Mellow the Gibson soothes the soul with its Mahogany back and side. When I want the boom to be heard and the Grass clear. My Martin "HD-28" hands down be the winner here.
I was fortunate enough to purchase a second hand '73 Martin D-28 that has quite a "bar troubadour" history. I rarely take it out of the case for fear of bruising it. Nonetheless, I hardly have to touch the tuning keys (if at all), regardless of it's length of slumber. It's sound always amazes me and my skill level is barely existent! On the other hand, another used gem I found last year was a Gibson ES-137 standard, with amazingly similar qualities in an electric guitar. I believe we're all blessed that these manufacturers endure and continue to provide us with their amazing instruments, regardless of our skill levels, to enjoy while we're here to appreciate them!
Martin D16 E. Is my dream guitar right now. I have always had a love for Martin guitars, since Johnny Cash played his. This guitar I’m saving for, and will have in two years after I graduate from college. It’s a gift from me to me 🥰🥰😘😘😉😉😉. The Martin D16 E is smaller in body, but has the appeal of a D 28. Check it out 👍
I have had a D16E for over a year now. What's not to like?
What a fun episode Tony! First, I super appreciate that shoutout with the pic of me walking Frankie with my Acoustic Life hoodie! I do have a treat for ya on the hockey side that I'll send in a future Acoustic Life/Acoustic Tuesday/Guitarsenal post. :-) On the Rock n Roll side of things, of course the acoustic is huge there! I think of Elvis with his Dove and his Martins, John Lennon with his D-28, Dave Crosby with his D-45, Clapton with his 000, Jimmy Page with his Gibsons, and on and on. I'd probably call the artist roster a tie as we could go all day of amazing artists who play one or both of these builders' guitars. In the end, while I love and appreciate both of these guitar companies, I would have to agree with you that Martin wins this one. Great episode!
I got my first Martin (a limited edition 2020 D-18e) almost one year ago today. It is an incredible instrument, and one that I would say was my dream guitar. I’ve played more acoustic guitar this year than I ever have, thanks to this D-18!
Then, on Black Friday, Sweetwater had an Epiphone ‘Inspired by Gibson’ wine red J-45 marked way down, and I bought it.
These two instruments would seem to be very similar (dreadnaughts, Sitka spruce tops, solid mahogany back & sides) but they really couldn’t be more different.
The mojo that bleeds outta that J-45 is incredible.
Like someone else said earlier, Martin wins, but Gibson doesn’t lose.
I am a Martin fan first and foremost. But I did notice a bias, on your behalf, towards Martin. My grandson just purchased a new Gibson J45 in Rosewood and the sound this guitar makes was not what I was expecting. I think it was the use of rosewood that made the difference as most Gibson and high end Epiphones are made of mahogany. The rosewood really made the difference in the sound and it really made this guitar sound beautiful. I love his Gibson's sound.
Anyways, I am still a Martin fan but do think you are biased towards Martin. Great video though.
I have never owned either but I would have to vote Gibson. I was fortunate enough to take a field trip in middle school and tour the Gibson guitar factory in Kalamazoo back in the 70's. It is the most memorable and best experience I ever had going to school. Maybe one day I can afford one of their guitars.
Martin's factory is absolutely amazing to say the least. Plus they have their museum as part of their factory. So much history. It's fantastic.
So Gibson is a better guitar based solely off the fact you toured their factory? Even though Martin's been making guitars a lot longer and invented the dreadnought guitar. They literally invented the dreadnought! I'd most definitely have to go with Martin.
After having owned it for 27 years, I traded my 1978 Les Paul Standard for a new Martin 0-18. It was the instrument that spoke to my heart like no other, and will be here until I die. Points awarded to Martin!
You traded in an electric guitar for an acoustic guitar. Not sure how you can give points to Martin for that. Lol
The true "dream guitar" for me is always the next one, but I did just take possession of a Gibson Custom Shop "1942 Banner LG-2." A perfect compliment to my small collection of Martins and a special sounding guitar right out of the box. This one should keep me happy for years to come.
I think Martin has such a clean tone and a natural look. I think Gibson has a warm tone and a vintage look.
I love both!
1st 3 categories, Martin for sure, even though Dad & my son like Gibsons.
Dana H First thank you for another wonderful show. Always fun and informative. I do feel Martin won the history category because of “provenance”. Legend is great but until you can back it up with proof it’s just hearsay. My first guitar was an inexpensive Epiphone I played with pride. Still have it for sentimental reasons. As a Montanan I do give Gibson a point for keeping Montana people working. I don’t own a Gibson or Martin but play the guitar of my dreams. It is a custom Bittersweet guitar made for me by my local luthier in Hamilton MT. Cedar top, Indian rosewood back and side, mahogany neck and custom note fret markers! There are many great guitars in every price from every maker; a guitar for every taste and budget. To borrow a phrase if you can’t be with the guitar you love, love the guitar your with and play on.
Great story....good for you.🎶
I inherited a 1961 Gibson LG-2 from my dad and I spent a good bit of money to get a professional setup and the frets replaced. It’s my main squeeze. Before the end of the year, I plan to buy a Martin 000-15M. For sentimental reasons, the LG-2 will always be my favorite but I am looking forward to making room in my heart for the 000-15M. I also have a Fender Tele, a Yamaha bass, and a Yamaha A1M acoustic that plays and sounds great. I play the Telecaster the least and I might end up selling it and getting something different.
I agree with your analysis. I play my J45 , Martin 12 string X series alternatively every day. Today I turned 70 years old. I have been a widower since losing my Rachel on March 17th 2016 to cancer I had played guitar during my teenage years however I had set the
Guitar aside until recently and have rediscovered my old friend and am truely conforted
Thank you for your insights and looking forward to future episodes. The HD 28 is my grail and who knows the future!
I own a Gibson g45 studio and a Martin d16rgt and love them both lol
G45 is hideous
@@Harp_and_Guitar_Moving_Forward he likes it. You don't have to
I have an SWOMGT and absolutely love it! Dream guitar is a Banner Era J45. I was blessed to play 1 a few years ago and instantly fell in love with it
I have a Martin GPCPA4R and I love it, love it, love it...did I mention I love it? But my dream guitar is the Gibson Bob Dylan Autographed SJ-200 Collector’s Edition.
Tony Rice also played Santa Cruz guitars and there is a Tony Rice model.
Buddy I typically agree with you, but history has to go to Martin on this one! Yes, mystery is one word to use with Gibson, but mess is another. Don't get me wrong...I love Gibsons and their history (I've been on their tour in Memphis), but they clearly don't have the history and tracking that Martin does. Just my opinion on this one. :-)
My dream guitar would be a Gibson J-180 cherry custom and a Martin HD-28
I have a Martin D-16 RGT
Tony how about a review about talking about 12 fret guitars. Eady on the senior hands. I am 67.
Thanks Warren
Ya. Me too!
Me too!
you could try also some nylon crossovers. i find them so easy to play. oh and yes some 14 fret shortscales
Good show! A couple of points hit home with me. Your guest talking about Orville Gibson at the beginning is a well known gentleman from the Kalamazoo music scene. He does a lot of work with GLAMA (Great lakes acoustic music association). I have learned from him and played with him at jams and workshops.
On another note, you mentioned Weber mandolins, I love my Weber Yellowstone with Cedar top that I got about 15 years ago or so. It is one instrument I will never part with.
Great show Tony. Picked up a j 15 one time Gibson. And hit a note that lasted four days LOL. Not really but it did last for a long time and played really easy best guitar ever picked up. Had Walnut back and sides plain but pretty. Over the years Every Time I Think of the best guitar I remember that one!
As a retired Manufacturing Engineer I have maybe a different take on the comparison between Martin and Gibson. Manufacturing processes are graded on their maturity. Process maturity is the compilation of many subtle pieces, however the end result is the ability of a manufacturing process to (accurately) repeat. So each time a shop moves to another building, these processes have to be resurrected, and messaged
to get back to a level of maturity that is repeatable (again). In my opinion, advantage: Martin.
Side note: the process documentation is also key.
I agree with you that .artist seem to be more consistent. I have read reviews and they are all over the place with Gibson, from glue drips, rough fretwork, etc.
Martin's are more consistent .
I agree with the overall winner but have comments on two of the matchups. First, I think using Keith Richards as the rock representative was a good choice BUT, like Johnny Cash, Keith played both Martin’s and Gibson’s. I’ve often seen pictures of him playing his Martin 00-21 on stage. This one should have been a tie instead of a Gibson win. Second, history should be a Martin win instead of a tie. I think Tony put too much emphasis on the strange quirks around the Gibson history instead of the longer and richer Martin history.
In the Rock catagory, there is no more iconic acoustic band than CSN(&Y). David Crosby & Neil Young both played Martin Dreadnoughts... case closed!
I am so looking forward to seeing those guitars of yours! 🤘🎸
My dream guitar is either a custom Martin D-35 or a custom SJ200 with rosewood back and sides. I love both of these guitars
Dream guitar for me is the OM-28 JM. Only 404 made and they sit at around $13,000. I will have one someday!
I had a ‘73 Gibson J50 beautiful intonation absolutely spot on, also had a 73 Martin D28 saddle had to be routed back about 1/4-3/16” back almost into the pins to get the intonation perfect, after that it had an annoying zingy sound had to get it gone sounded terrible. I feel Martin should have replaced it at their cost but no. I feel I was treated very poorly by Martin.
I have a Golden Era D18 and a Gibson CS 1939 J55 and I like the J55 a lot, lot more. A lot easier to play, more comfortable and truly just sings
You should really give a triple O a try or a OM model Martin. My first Martin was a dreadnought which sounded wonderful but moving to a triple o the experience was so much on point for me. The thinner body and deeper curved sides makes it so much easier to play. The first guitar I played that felt like a extension of myself. And it sounds beautiful.
@@danielallen7384 I actually traded that D18 for a custom shop 000-18 haha. Adirondack top, plus it’s a shade top finish :)
Much more comfortable and exactly what I needed
@@TheTrollMastah if only they could figure out a way to get that deep rich bass tone of a dreadnought in a 000 lol.
Thank you for sharing the comment about earning our worth with time spent playing together. Ann
I played Martin guitars for 40 years. Not one has survived. Bought a CS Hummingbird two years ago and I was hooked. This year an SJ 200 has been added, I must say unmatched!
I own both. And any single acoustic guitar could be better in Gibson or Martin. But as a total all around Guitar producer - yes it's Martin hands down. Gibson has been Great, then poor, then recoverting, and even now just coming back and with notable quality issues that are common place on the internet. Martin on the other hand has been rock solid, one owner, one location, never wavering always a top level producer. I'm glad we have both and competition is good. Down here in Central Texas it's hard to pick you're Hockey Team! Love that you're multi-dimensional.
I'm blessed to have both a Gibson J15 and a Martin 00015m (both great versions of both models)... I love them both and use them for different things. My Martin has this "old timey" thing that is just so cool, and the Gibson is a a workhorse thats played many gigs with me. Fun video, thanks Tony. Here in 2024
"Most Recorded Guitar" should have been a category. Gibson J-45 is the most recorded guitar in history and that is because it is the best sounding guitar in history!
I went into a local store to buy a J45 after wanting one for a while. I left with a D18. Martin just out gunned it in every category.
Yes, I agree with your assessment. I have 4 Martins and 2 Gibsons in my acoustic guitarsenal. Oh, and dare I mention a Fender American Elite Telecaster. 😁
The two greatest steel string acoustic guitar makers ever!
Watching this makes me so happy I bought my 1960 D28 Martin,right b4 they started backing off on precious Brazilian Rosewood and revamped their factory!! I wish I ad bought a 3 pc D35 also but money was hard to combine and you needed a day job and a band gig 3 or more nights a week...Besides I needed a Guild 1970 D35(already work of art).Then there was the Fender Jazzmaster,Stratocaster and of course AMPS!!! Fender 100watt Dual Showman w/2 bottoms(each bottom had two 15 inch JBL spkrs!!! Imagine the sound and weight of each cabinet!!! I could throw each bottom in my car like a loaf of bread!! Now I can hardly pick up the 100 watt head!!! Lol lol.
I sold it and my gibson echoplex like a fool in 1972.Live and learn.i sold at least 12 or more strats and a 2 Jazzmans!!! Yes I'm a fool.i could be rich mow!! Wow I'm sure I forgot much,!!! Be smarter than me!!! Love all
In those days strats sold for 125 to 150°°
I live 20 minutes away from the Martin factory and own three Martins. I do love Gibson and own three Gibson electric instruments. When it comes to acoustic guitars there is truly a Martin sound no other instrument matches. I always feel I have to struggle a bit more to play a Martin but it is worth it.
I have a Martin D 28 and a Gibson Advanced Jumbo....the movie "Sophie's Choice" comes to mind...I would never want to have to choose between the two of them...I love them both!
I agree with you on the history! I love them both!
Hi Tony. Been traveling all yesterday (Maryland to Florida) been catching up on your Acoustic Tuesday videos. Signed up for TAC a little over a month ago. I love your training technique. I have singed up for 2 other online programs and never got past the first couple days. I just thought I would mention this.
You are so correct in searching for the "best". I use to own a retail store and would get asked all the time, "which one is the best?" My response would always be, ""the one you play the best". It is not about brands, it is about the guitar that you play well and sounds well, the one you have a hard time putting down. Just thought I would share my 2 cents. Great job....
oh well ... that wasn't the kind of video i was expecting when i read the title ... yet ... good vid with loads of detail infos about the brands ....
... i was more looking for ... brand shapes and tones ... comparisson .... not a challenge ....
but still ... i loved the vid
Keep Rockin!
CF Martin Co. is amazing. I recently purchased a 1996 D-45 with the name of a now-dead famous player on the neck. I called them at Nazareth to ask about it. I gave them the serial number and was immediately connected to the woman who actually inlaid the pearl and headstock on my guitar and who gladly answered my questions. Where else can you have that kind of experience?
Steve Stills and Neil Young both play Martins, so what of the R&R category?
I knew Mike Longworth. He was in a band along with my dad many years ago in New Hampshire. Mike played the five-string banjo in the band. It was Clyde and Willie Mae Joy and the Country Folk. My dad went by the stage name Dusty Cal and he was the New England champion yodeler for many years.
Custom shop: that Historic Southern Jumbo is FANTASTIC, but I don't have one. MARTIN gets my vote & sale. You got this correct. Of course, Gibson is changing for the better.
I want to write from my perspective of view. I went to a music store cause i was finally able to buy me a really good guitar. I was just indifferent what Brand i was going to choose so i headed up to gibson first. I played the hummingbird studio rosewood and i literally felt in love directly to the sound and playability. After that i went to Taylor guitars, i was literally disappointed on how these sounded so i headed up to Martin guitars. The sound was brilliant and the look very vlassic but one thing made me turn around ad pick up the Gibson: the playability was awful. I wanted to play as fast as possible but i just couldn't (on the hummingbird it was fine). So i still can't understand why people say martin guitars should be better than gibson, when the playability isn't as smooth as on a Gibson. Maybe i just have a different vision than other guitarists
Just one point, luca853: I have a 1974 Martin D 28 with the most beautiful tone [of course, the dreadnaughts are famous for their full tone]. It is also clad in rosewood, with the back folding open into two pieces of matching grain]. The body fills with a note , notes, or a chord and holds the sound--you can feel that incredible resonance in your hands. But, the big but: when a close friend handed over this beautiful instrument in lieu of a debt of $500, sometime back in the '70s, he had sanded down the saddle to lower the strings closer to the fretboard. I did not realize this until much later. So, in a way your are right about 'playability' [an unfortunately vague term], if what you mean is the high saddle and high strings which make playing chords especially difficult, especially with medium or heavy strings. I go with medium, as light strings really don't produce a decent, full sound worthy of the instrument. All that said, Good playing to you on your fine Gibsons!
I completely agree and had a very similar experience. Went into the shop with a $4k budget not influenced by any brand. Was there the entire day going back and forth between Gibson, Martin and Taylor. The Gibson’s playability was far better than the other two. It’s perfect right out of the box while every Martin I’ve bought had to be brought in to get set up.
Dream guitar: Gibson Hummingbird True Vintage VOS. Followed by Martin D-18E Modern Deluxe. Fun comparison video!
The Gibson factory in Memphis, now closed did offer guided tours to the public back in 2012 when I visited. At that time they produced semi-hollow body electric guitars like the ES-335 there.
Yep Martin is the winner! I had the money to buy my dream acoustic guitar. After playing and looking at the options, Martin was the very clear winner for me. Now years later I still and enjoying and loving my Martin Guitars.
Scale length matters. Gibson's seem to love me more better, although I played a triple O custom shop that gave me a flutter.
I bought my first acoustic guitar in March 16th in response to the pandemic. I bought a Fender. It’s now 6 months later and it’s time to fulfill my heart’s deepest desire. If cost was not an issue, can someone give me suggestions for Gibson or Martin? And what model you would suggest?
Can't go wrong (price not being an issue) with a D-18, 28. The higher numbers if you want the Bells & Whistles for Martins. For Gibson- J45, Hummingbird, Dove when you can find a good one
My dream guitar is currently in the beginnings of being made at Preston Thompson Guitars. It’s a 000-14 BR, Brazilian back and sides, redwood top. Hopefully it will be finished by the end of the year. I can’t wait! 😁
I love how easy my L-00 studio is to play.
Hey Tony,
Can you have a battle between boutique acoustic guitar brand battle? This would let you compare L’arrivee VS Santa Cruz or Bourgeois (this is just a suggestion). I prefer Martin Guitars, because you can guarantee that the sound of a Martin. However, Gibson acoustics are still very good, but not really my style. I hate to end my comment this way to the Acoustic Tuesday Community, but can you have more reviews of acoustic guitars, because your reviews are the best! I just miss them.....
My dream guitar is a Santa Cruz 1934D. Since I haven't won a Stanley Cup and I'm just an average Joe, it will remain a dream. Great analysis by the way.
Tony, my main man... I'm going to have to go with Martin on the documented history. It has nothing to do that I took their factory tour 3 weeks ago... 😁 Their Museum was the high point of the trip, and not actually the factory tour itself. I'm going back in December and plan on spending at least 2 or 3 hours in the museum this time around. There's so much to take in.... (I DO however, agree with your choice in hockey teams!)
Don’t forget about the guitars built in Canada. My Simon and Patric is beautiful
My two dream guitars are a Gibson Les Paul Axcess with a long scale and no chambering, and a Gibson Advanced Jumbo.
I have a 2008 AJ. It is amazing. You will love it.
@@Southernguitar74 I probably would, however, I couldn't afford my dream guitars, or your guitar for that matter, which is why I'm going to build my own guitars.
Great show Tony. My first guitar was a Martin and I have since acquired a couple more Martins. I look forward to the day that I can afford a nice Martin but as a guitar geek, I also look forward to the day when I can snag an older iconic Gibson as well.
I would have to say I agree with your assessment that found the Martins and the affordable models, Martin is the overall winner. Being a Martin owner notwithstanding, my 1st love was and still in my heart is a Gibson J45. When I looked to upgrade from my 1983 Takamine G330,which I still play, I started checking out Martin and found that a lot of my songwriter friends and musicians used Martin,D-18, D-28, etc. Then I found they had a great selection of great affordable guitars like the D-16GT that I found to be wonderful. But I digress, Lately in innovations have you tried Martin's SC -13E? A new patent pending dovetail neck joint and a player's centric ergonomic profile.On the other hand I love both Gibson and Martin. For what they do. Distinctive and their own sound. One song sounds like it needs a Gibson, another, Martin. I am hoping I can be lucky to have both in my arsenal one day
Hey Tony! Remember the show you did on the 9 guitars you bought after reviewing 500? I do - 6 of them were Martins. And rightly, in my opinion. Apart from anything else, Gibsons would be an immediate fail for me because of the lack of consistency over the years. With the exception of the famous strike, Martin have been an icon of quality control throughout their history. Having said that, at their best, Gibson have produced some fabulous guitars. Thanks
When you find the "right" J-45, or Hummingbird, or Dove, etc., you've found great tone and looks. I call 'em Rare Birds
I‘m torn, Tony. Both shops build great guitars, but I think one of the comments you just read rings true; if it sounds good, it is good. Great episode.
Always wanted a Townes Van Zandt Martin D-35, not sure if they made a lot of them or even if you can get your hands on one anymore. I just know it’s one of my dream guitars.
The correct answer to this debate is Guild. But if I have to pick between Gibson and Martin, I'm going Martin everytime. I may be partial to the general Gibson sound, but they don't make a model that doesn't thin out badly up the neck that I've ever played - SJ-200s, J-45s, Hummingbirds, Songwriters, Doves always thin out real quickly up the neck.
Another great episode. If i had to choose between these two, id still have to go with Martin. Not knocking Gibson, i just prefer Martin, which leads to what i would have to pick for a dream guitar. I have always loved the Martin 000-15m. Partly because i am a sucker for an all mahogany body, and mostly because its something different tonally than a dreadnought.
Jonathan Meyer Just to affirm your dream, I have a 000-15m and it has wonderful tone and playability. I prefer it to the D28 that I bought many years early. It took a while for me to develop my preference for mahogany and smaller bodies but is has been my favorite guitar since buying it 2 or 3 years ago. I even love the spartan bling-free appearance and the minimalist diamonds and squares fretboard inlays. For me, the 000-15m is near perfect. I hope you get to pursue one as your dream guitar. It certainly qualifies in my experience.
Like Arthur, I'm also fortunate to have a Martin 000-15M (in the burst finish) and love it for all the reasons stated (and it was my first Martin); it shares time with two other Martins, but like the other two, it'll never be sold. Pretty sure you already understand why.
I’m a big fan of both brands, owning a Gibson LP Custom. But the Martin acoustics are simply the best. Tried a bunch of expensive acoustics from the Big 3 when looking for one, but walked out of the store w a Martin D-15. Tonally it killed Gibson’s and IMHO Taylors at 3-4 times the price. Thanks for a great video!
Martin museum is fantastic. I was able to play several models when I visited years ago, not sure you can still do that.
Everyone compares their guitars to Martin. Nuff said about that. I just got a new Yamaha SFX5 small bodied acoustic electric guitar. I wanted a good finger picker and Wow! Now I have one! ($1,600.00) It was hard to find as the SFX5s are bought up fast for good reason. Japan is taking orders, but the price is going up by almost $800.00 to $2,400.00. I know it's not relevant, but I'm excited and just had to say so. I'm "almost" done acquiring guitars. Not!
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I love Martin but always felt like the Gibsons just had a bigger and brighter sound and the neck feels better. Taylor's are cool but sound too bright for my taste.
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..great episode ....but I will say you failed to do a " durability " comparison....my Martin D35 stayed in the shop ....braces coming loose etc ....but my Custom Hummingbird has been a tank ....either way , great show ....cheers
exactly, I have been playing both Martin and Gibsons at stores recently, I was shocked how thin the wood was in the Martins , probably why they are a little louder, but it just seemed like an accident waiting to happen, I also prefer the J45 over the D18 sound wise, I do like both though.
I own Gibson L140 ......electric accoustic..... beautiful feeling and sound... someday I may have a Marten too but Im not giving up my Gibson
I've been thinking about getting either a martin d15m or a gibson j45 studio and I can't decide which
Get the J45.
What a great piece. I love what you do and am excited to watch you week in and week out!
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Nice thought provoking video, Tony. Chris Martin would tell you to your face that Martin does not do electric guitars well. They do Acoustic only guitars well, and make a stab at an acoustic/electric D-28 and D-18. Gibson makes great acoustic guitars like the L00, J-45, and the J-55. And they make iconic electric solid bodies like the Les Paul, the SG, and even the Firebird. They also have electric/acoustics like the ES-335, and also hollow bodied electrics like the Gibson Byrdland. I dearly love Martin and own a 000-28, but, this is not actually a tie. Unless, you just want to maintain a good relationship with both of them.
Tom. I've owned both top of the line models. They aren't Apples to Apples. Martin creates a very high quality acoustic guitar with their signature sound, and Gibson produces yet another very high quality acoustic guitar with another voice. Martins tend to be articulate and crisp in the frequency register whereas Gibson, has a very magical, and dreamy tone that has a distinct quality and decay all its own. Personally, I prefer -- overall -- Gibsons. But, I will never sell my beloved Martin D-18, which is a beautiful sounding instrument. However, my collection of Gibsons prevails over Martin. This is purely all a matter of choice and personal tonal preference. Yet, the bottom line, IMHO, is that no other guitar manufacturer can reproduce the tone of a Gibson -- whereas, a Martin can be closely replicated, but not to the point of Martin perfection. They are both amazing acoustic guitars.
I watched this video and you got me thinking. Damn it! Now i have acquired Guitar Acquisition Syndrome. Loving that 1942 Southern Jumbo with Rosewood back and sides. $$$$$ is up there. But when you have GAS you have GAS only one way to relieve that. And that is purchase the damn thing. Anywho another thing I was thinking about is this. Just how much difference is there from Brazilian rosewood and East Indian Rosewood that is used mostly today? And here is my thought on how we could address that issue. The older Martins pre war sound great in many ways because of aging of the instrument, and my understanding is that is mostly dependent on the top wood when it comes to aging. So replacing a top on an old guitar it catastrophic in my opinion. So let’s get back to the back and sides. I think an awesome comparison would be the last year of a Martin D45 with Brazilian compared to the first year of a Martin D45 with East Indian. Would that be 69 to 70? Not sure about the timeline, or a 28 would be fine probably easier to set that up.
Also a huge Jomboy fan! He’s the best!
Hold on…. Martin wins on manufacturing because they give tours? Personally I’d rather my luthier wasn’t having to answer dozens of inane questions while sanding down the neck 😂 Mostly joking. I enjoyed the vid.
I have one of each so I love them both. My 00-18 turned me to acoustic from electric it sounded that gorgeous for fingerpicking. And then my J-45 is insane too. Couldn’t pick between them
Martin has always been my dream acoustic guitar,I purchased one and I am highly satisfied with the build and quality and balanced sound, I use it often and will continue to, having said that I was recently out guitar shopping for a nice guitar for my son, we went to a guitar center and went into the high end room and played what they had. I went in expecting to be going home with a nice Martin, but after playing both my son and I agreed the best sounding guitar was a Gibson by a lot, he now plays a Gibson acoustic, and I find myself playing his guitar more than mine now because it has a singing tone not bass heavy but clear! I will keep my Martin but soon I will be buying a nice Gibson acoustic!
As for rock n roll, what about Clapton playing the Martin on hi MTV Unplugged video. What about Kurt Cobain playing the Martin 1959 Martin D-18E on the Nirvana Unplugged concert? Food for thought, my friend.
Let's not forget Neil Young's Unplugged......Shakey likes a Martin too.
Ray Rodriguez That Cobain Martin just sold at auction for $6,000,000!!!!! 😳
Used to be diehard Martin, but Gibson accousitics have some kind of magic that took ahold of me. J45 standard is near perfect. Haven't found a single Martin close to the vibes I can get from a Gibson
My favorite that I play is my Blazer and Henke 000-42 waited 3 yrs for it to be built. Worth the wait. I’ll play it for the rest of my life.
Martin vs Gibson: I love my 57 Martin 000-21. Clearly I love the 000 body size
I have a baritone voice and played a J-45 Standard in Mahogany (noticeable nice low end but hated the slim taper neck), Taylor (to bright but great neck) Martin D28 Rosewood (balanced and nice neck). The Gibson and Martin would either work. the Gibson low end resonated well with my baritone voice (prob the mahogany back and sides). Would love to see if played Martin D18 it would have been the BEST. I am mainly an electric player but need a nice decent acoustic. Those above might be a tad out of my range $$$. So my question 1) Mahogany back and sides or Rosewood (versatility)???? 2) If your budget was for a Gibson Studio Mahogany/Rosewood OR Martin D16E Mahogany/Rosewood what would you recommend??????
Love both Brand's
I vote for Martin in all 7 categories. I just cleaned up my D18 (haven't playedit much in a very long time) with the 4 Step D'Addario cleaning kit and put on new Santa Cruz strings and WOW - I never knew it could sound that good. In spsite of that my dream guitar is a Breedlove Oregon Concert CE with the Tiger's Eye burst (limited edition). I'm from Oregon and I'm all about Myrtlewood and sustainability.
This video is soooo biased towards Martin...how much did they pay you?!? You gave them the innovation point? Yes, they basically invented flat top acoustic guitars and revolutionized bracing, but what about arch tops and the truss rod? What about the height adjustable bridges? All the stones and Beatles songs we love were recorded on a 60s Gibson with the plastic adjustable bridge. All of them. Gibson totally wins innovation.
Let’s discuss model offering...how in the hell can you claim Martin wins? Every guitar is a 25.5 scale length with just different body shapes. What they do they do well but Gibson has both scale lengths with soooo many different options and aesthetics. The hummingbird, dove, J200, J45, L1...cmon dude.
The Gibson custom shop wrecks Martin’s sooo badly. How can you give them the point? Martin stole their historic line idea from Gibson after they started doing it. And 10k for a D45? That’s highway robbery. The top of the line historic pre-war SJ200 is only 6.5k.
Both are amazing guitar manufacturers. I just love the Gibson tone and sound overall. That wins it for me.
I can't pick one. I love both!
My dream guitar is brand new Taylor American Dream AD17e Spruce/Ovangkol Blacktop ES2 w/AeroCase.
Maybelle Carter chose a Gibson! .? ❤
It’s funny how a picture of Keith playing a hummingbird decides while he’s often enough stating that he prefers Martin, especially his beloved 00-21.
But it’s funny anyway.
Gibson scores innovation by far since they do way more that flat top guitars.
I love them both but for some reason all of the Martin’s had to go while there are four Gibson’s in the house...
Both are great manufacturers!
Same here. I bought an HD35, sold it. Bought an HD28, sold it. Bought a Hummingbird, it’s still not sold.