The D18 is just so “in your face”, it cuts through and isn’t really too heavy in the low end or top end. All 3 sound killer, but man D18’s just do it for me.
@@Steven-Duffy maybe for you, but not for me man. If they Yamaha does it for you, then awesome. We all like different things so it’s not about one guitar being better than the other. If they both sound good, then great. I’ve had my D18 for 4 years and it’s the most inspiring instrument I have it have ever had and it just keeps getting better. No need to try and swing me to the Yamaha side or make me question my purchase. You do you man.
@@Steven-Duffy i agree with robby. unfortunately every yamaha ive heard sounds like a toy compared to my D18, and the yamahas FEEL like toys, or like beginner guitars to my hands. allll but this ONE epiphone texan i found, it sounds and feels pretty similar to my d-18 so i use it as a backup. (both are sitka spruce top with mahogany back and sides so makes sense)
To me they all sound great and balanced well! The subtle strengths: D-18 slow finger picking is so nice and mellow. D-28 clarity crispness of each note, opens up on the flat picking jam HD-28 clarity of each note crisp and clear especially on finger picking.
I own a D-18 which I hold as the standard to all other guitars, the HD sounds like it has some brighter highs. No doubt all three are amazing and what a treat to hear them. If I could add to my collection I believe it would be the HD. I just feel very fortunate own at least one of these beauties !!
I own an HD and it is a CANNON! If I'm playing with others, I almost always strum with the side of thumb or it just blows everyone out. It made me fall in love with the guitar all over again. BUT, my next one will be the D18. If I hadn't gotten such a deal on the HD, I would've gotten the 18. I'm not a jealous man but I do envy you my friend...keep on picking"!
I’ve played all three. And for me the D-18 gets my money every time. I also own a twelve fret slot head CEO-5 Martin from 2002 and its a beauty as well. 🤠
I have an HD-28 and a D-18 and here’s what I’ll say. They’re both fabulous guitars. If you want a loud and responsive guitar, the D-18 is your friend. If you want a flat picking guitar and you want each note to be clear and clean then the HD-28 is your friend.
The HD has more depth and woodiness and a similar piercing flatpicking sound to the regular D-28, so I would chose the D-18 for general strumming but the HD for bluegrass flatpicking.
This shootout is done very well. Thank you. Someone made a comment that the D-18 bass doesn’t stand out as much as people say it does. Well it actually is more present, what’s happening though is the D-18 being more balanced? Gives the auditory illusion of less bass, when in fact it is a stronger and more direct bass signal. I have used many D-18’s, D-28’s and several other Martins in the studio. I have heard this same comment before so many years ago I did an experiment t
Nice comparison!! I love Martin tone the best. They all great. D18 is lots of mid range, D28 is transparent and punchy tone and HD28 is boomy and punchy.
Message part 2. In the studio, using several different Martins, I only recorded the low E string. On all counts, except for one 1939 D-28, the D-18’s were far stronger on the bass response. It is because of the softer Mahogany wood. It’s an easy mistake to make. I have made it myself. Hope this helps. 😊
Awesome channel and content. My ONLY request is to edit the videos and put each guitars section right after each other so we can immediately discern any differences.
Even though you stated the order of playing and have a list of the timestamps, perhaps a momentary screen label when each one is played so the viewer doesn't need to reference elsewhere. Thanks. Great job as always.
True, I don't exactly have an eagle eye but dark binding on the 18, off-white binding on the 28, and notice the dots change to diamonds and square pattern on the herringbone d28, hope that helps
funny, i just bought a d-18e, amazing instrument, but now having played it a while i wonder if i'd prefer the d-28, especially when playing with others. d-28 cuts so clear....
@yumpladukfoo I love my HD-28 and it's gotten better as its aged. I just finally said to hell with it and I am happy enough with my classical when it comes to a warmed toned acoustic. I was always searching for that "magical" warm steel string but I got tired of chasing the dragon I guess.
Even though it isn’t the prettiest of these 3, and the most “affordable” as well, the D18 projects so well. The others sounded muffled or “constrained” compared to the D18. It’s a cannon for sure.
All are great flavors. I prefer the standard D series. Something about the tonality of standard X braced, non scalloped Martins that appeals to my ears. Thank you.
I cannot rate these guitars in order. They are all superb in their way as are all the Martin standards. The HD speaks to ME the most because of its expansive, rounded sound with added headroom. I have an HD35, and you can play that as quiet or loud as you like and it will never quit or distort. My friend has an 18 and it's also a beautiful guitar and breaks up in an elegant way at higher volumes. I cannot comment from first had experience on the 28, but on this showing it is closer to the 18 than the HD. Great test with lots of attention to keeping the playing similar between the guitars!
I love the sound and look of the HD-28. I don’t think you could go wrong with any of these though. I own a J-40 and an HD-28 but I want to add a hog to the mix one of these days!
There are no better acoustics guitars than a Martin! Every Martin in this category sounds different to one another. You just need to find the one that speaks to you best. Choose the one with the best voicing and feel. It’s a personal choice. “Martin,There is No Substitute!” 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Whenever I listen to a D18 vs D28, I always really like both and possible the 18 better... But when *I* play them for myself, I always greatly prefer the 28. Makes choosing between them tough!
I think it's because the D-18 has a certain clarity in the mid-range that makes it record so nicely. The D-28 has a lovely complexity and richness in the bass that makes it sound so nice to hear live. At least that's my experience.
I skipped from the strums on the d28 back to the d18 and the 18 is miles more my sound. I love the presence of the high mids on the 18 much more and find 28 is more low mid focused. I just sold my seagull which was spruce and wild cherry and I’d say it’s more like the 28. Obviously not as good but it’s more rounded and hoping to find something like the 18 at lower price for now
Great stuff. I have a D18 and HD28. Both great but for consistently hitting the spot inside of me the D18 always delivers. In this video upload all these axes are equally ferkin awesome to my ear.
Hi, great comparison but my "ear memory" can't really remember very well what the previous guitar sounded like when you switched to the next. It would have been easier if you let's say strum the same chord on all three guitars back to back (I know this would have required way more editing work). And then as you switched playing style and chord progressions and played each guitar back to back. I used to help beginners buy guitars by lining up 5 guitars of various brands, body styles, woods, and of course price range. I would tell them to close their eyes and I would play the same exact song/chord progression, hopefully with the same pressure and have them choose without having their eyes discriminating. I tried to make sure they I didn't play them in the same order so they wouldn't know which was which.
All three are wonderful sounding acoustic guitars. However, their descriptions are not quite correct, or complete. They appear to be from Martin's "Re-imagined" series (post-2012 or thereabouts). The "butterbean" tuners are the give-away. It's useful to check out Martin's website for the specifications of each model. There you will find that: (a) The D-18 has SCALLOPED, forward-shifted X-bracing (b) The D-28 has non-scalloped FORWARD-SHIFTED X-bracing (c) the HD-28 has both scalloped and forward-shifted X-bracing The bracing position has a significant influence on a guitar's sound. Notwithstanding, all three are fabulous instruments. Whether you'd hear their subtle differences when they're played among other instruments (e.g. in a bluegrass band) is another matter.
I would need time with all 3 plus a D35 and then decide. Unfortunately, most of us have to decide in a guitar shop and no matter how easy-going the shop, it's not the best environment for such a choice. Maybe the answer is to own each for a few months, then sell and buy the others in turn. After a year, think back and decide which one gave you most pleasure. Buying used would reduce any loss in value.
The HD28 is where its at. Truthfully, its a pickers guitar, but in the right hands (yours) reigns supreme even in the finger pickers realm. That said, its very unforgiving to the lesser skilled players, but rewards hansomly to the skilled ones.
I love them all. The D-18 is warmer, D-28 brighter with better sustain, HD-28 sounds the same to me as the D-28. Next do a D-35 vs D-45 comparison please.
I'm happy to be able to hear these back-to-back-to-back. The D-28 comes off just a little too harsh, and the HD-28 seems to have a nice chimey sound kind of like a 12-string. But the D-18 just sounds so good to me and that's what I prefer out of the three. Maybe it's because I have basically a poor man's D-18 and I've gotten to really like that spruce and mahogany sound.
@nandish patel I've heard that Eastman, Larrivee, and Recording King have very good D-18 alternatives. I have a less expensive Martin (Cstom D Classic Mahoney) which is pretty good, too.
@@derelictfields first of all Thank you and Love from India ☺️. I tried Breedlove guitars i founded it kinda Good one. (Though im not a professional or pro player, being just a mediocre with high taste ! ☺️) The ones u mention are not available here in india, heard it for the 1st time :/ im a bit of fingerstyle player but looking for versatile one for life time keeping.
I get ear fatigue from the rosewood, not the hog like someone mentioned. Too complicated. I could listen to a D18 for hours on end. That said, rosewood adds great interest and punch when you need it!!! So thhey are all fantastic...just get one of each
Great demonstration! I shows very clear the differences between mahagon back and sides and rosewood back and sides. The rosewood always gives this smiley face eq form, since the mahagon gives more "vintage" (more mids) sound. Thanks for this video! I have Guild CO-2 with mahagon back and sides and I like it very much for what it is. I hope some day I will lay my hands on some good dreadnought guitar with rosewood back and sides.
Any idea why they never introduced a D18 with straight braces to complement the straight braced modern d28? When the d28 was first introduced in the 30s it wasn't called the hd28 it just had those specs. I find it curious. The fairest comparison is the d18 and hd because they both have scalloped braces, would be so curious to hear a straight braced d18
@@ianmeadows6351 awesome thanks! I know there's no substitute for playing in person but when that's not possible this is definitely one of the best channels for a reference point
OK, I feel silly asking this, but how are we supposed to know which is which? I don’t see him changing guitars there’s nothing written across the video? He’s obviously not talking :-) so how do I know which is which please🙏🏻🙏🏻💫❤️🥰
D28 by a mile, then the HD. Look, I get it, the D18 is great on these videos thru a shitty cellphone speaker, nice and middy, but not balanced and certainly doesn't have the low that people here keep mentioning. You can barely hear the bass notes plunk. D28 and HD are much more pronounced in the bottom, and have an overall better balance from low to high. D18 is ear fatigue after awhile. Compare them in person at a store and you will get what I'm saying. And if you still prefer the thinner sounding D18 that's ok too.
I love an 18 for certain things but you're correct here. Listening thru good headphones you can hear the bass is just so flat/clunky on the 18. I prefer to hear it.
gforce7four I own both a D-28 standard and a D-18 standard and I think you’re wrong here. I mean both are great guitars, but they have different tonal pallets. The D28 is supposed to have more bass, as that’s the frequency rosewood tends to naturally live in. But in a live setting and in recording that much bass isn’t always a good thing. Despite what people think there is such a thing as too much bass. The D-18 on the other hand has that just right mid range tone. Mahogany tends to give the D18 that warm mid range bump. Plus D-18’s are usually lighter in weight (less mass) which is great for tone transfer and can sometimes be just as loud, if not louder than D-28s. But you’re right, go play one in a store and make up your mind instead of listening to these videos on iPhone speakers.
I have to agree with Joshua here, Mahogany (D18) is balanced and Rosewood isn't, neither is bad just different, the best combo I ever tried in person was an Alvarez mahogany dreadnought with a cedar top, the sound was to die for and left many more expensive guitars in the shop far behind.
I’m trying to find an acoustic where it has a greater string spacing because most feel like the strings are really close together and very hard for me to play. Is this why you say that the 1-11/16 is preferred for you?
Eu queria encontrar um violão com a sonoridade diferente mas até hoje não encontrei o único que eu encontrei foi o Takamine gd11 porque ele não tem tanto agudo como os demais
Hey there, so what’s the difference between the HD28 and the HD28 V? Thanks BTW- The recording was great. Mic sounded good, and no additional processing really helps! 👍🏼
griphos5 they were very different to me when I played them. And actually the modern deluxe series are actually more heavily scalloped like the Golden Era series were. So supposedly the more scalloping the more movement of the top but when I played a d28md next to a stock hd28 I preferred the hd28. But the good news is that is why Martin makes so many models, because we all hear differently.
Hello Ian, thank you for your demonstration and I would like you to give me some opinions on Martin D28 and Guild D55. I am about to choose one from these 2. I found some videos in youtube comparing the 2. Honestly, I don't have good ears to distinguish them nor am I a good guitar player in terms of skill. However, I still want to have a high end guitar. It seems that Guild D55 will cost more than Martin D28.
Hi Benny. Both of these guitars are excellent, you can't really go wrong. The D55 may be the choice if you like a little more bling. It's dressed up more then the D28. At this level, I'd say it's whatever one you're more drawn to!
Yep that's how it is with large guitar companies. But that's what mskes it fun too and special. See every Martin, within each model, uses the same thickness top. Same thickness braces and scalloping. And they really don't tone tap, or check stiffness that in depth. And the variances in wood are endless. One too could be too heavy, too stiff, too floppy, for that bracing. Or vice versa. Too heavy bracing etc. But once and awhile it all comes together for the perfect guitar. Perfect stiffness top for those braces. Shaved just right, etc. Perfect neck weight for it. Etc etc. But that's also what mskes finding the right one so fun. Because when you do find that one where it all came together man o man. Then add in years of proven methods and top notch woods and you'll have one that will blow away a custom made guitar from a small builder. And that guitar will be special and only u will own it
I have an HD-28. I bought it because of the overtones and how it rings like a bell when fingerpicking, which is mostly what I love and play. But man, that D-18 sounds incredible. If I bought one, I’m not sure how I’d decide which one to play. First world problems, I know!
I'm surprised. I've always preferred rosewood guitars in general and D28's in particular. But man...that D-18 sounded spot on. Great highs/lows, good on strumming, flatpicking, and finger picking (although I think the finger picking wasn't it's strongest suit). The D-28 sounded a little tubby/boomy to me, although I've always found them to be full and lush. Not in this comparison.
Throw an Swiss alpine spruce top in that 18, make the braces alpine or addy wood, and shave them a little bit more, and it will blow away all of them. Honestly I already like the d18 more in these clips. Nice example of a d18 you got there. Nothing like a good hog backed guitar. Especially after they age. They will age better than the 28s too.
@@ianmeadows6351 They did. It's called the D mahogany 09 first year it wss made, and the D mahogany for years 2010-2013. Best value in Martin History. If you haven't heard of it, man oh man. Check it out. Authentic territory and cost 800 less than the GE. I know hard to believe, and alot of people say stuff, but thos is one of those times where it's fully true. They only made 139 of them over 5 years. Not a limited edition. Just made small amounts. It's a Martin D 18 GE, same bracing style, cloth strips etc. GE. But with a high altitude Swiss spruce top and bracing. And a Katalox Bridge and Fretboard. Which I like more than ebony honestly and their most expensive fretboard wood. Its denser than ebony, rings like African Blackwood. The Swiss top has all the qualities of the Adirondack GE, but sounds like a 50 year old Adirondack. Smooths the trebles some. And starts to sound like the authentic. Alot. And introduces overtones You even got a volute on the back od the neck at the headstock. Only msrtin hog to do this. Neck profile is nicer too. All vintage appointments. From the long saddle to angled nut. Here's the crazy thing. They sold this guy, which cost them more to make than the GE, for 800 less. It's all completely fsc certified and we're trying to get it to take off. And priced it for trh first time ive seen in Martin History, extremely low. Lower profit margin. And the FSC woods arent cheaper or young growth etc. So don't let that confuse u. The tops are old growth high altitude Swiss moon spruce. All Martins mahogany is mostly fsc certified anyway. So no change there. Amd guess what? You're garuteeed a one piece 100% genuine mahogany neck on these. No select wood. Ahain, I can't stress the value of these things. Gorgeous tops too man. The silking. Cross grain. 3d depth. Shimmer. Ugh. No runout anywhere. And THEY'RE MONSTERS. Super light and responsive. Again this is the first time they've used the high altitude Swiss spruce for not just the top, but the braces also on the same guitar. Light and stiff. They beat the GE. Idk 9ne Dhog owner that would trade theirs for 2 golden eras and most sold theirs when they got theirs. They are close to authentics. Mine caused me to sell ny rosewood Martin. Guys that own authentics absolutely love them. Check them out man. Search the Martin D mahogany 09 club forum OK. Sorey for rambling but trust me. They're special. And the prices are silly. The best kept secret in Martin History. I feel lucky to have one and ot cost me 2k brand new. Unreal. They didnt do well because the name wss terrible, and purists didnt know what katalox was at the time, and people don't understand fsc. Did you know fsc usually onky cuts the best and biggest tree in the area so its worth cutting and not wasted for, and other wild trees can grow and flourish? Has nothing to do with second growth, etc. Another reason they stopped making it. The fsc wood is much more expensive for Martin. Anyway sorey for rambling. Check it out. Check the forums. And dont confuse It with that d custom mahogany or whatever for guitar center. Has absolutely nothing to do with it. Mine will come with me to the grave. It's not s guitar you sell. Its a lifer.
@@ianmeadows6351 BTW sorry for the rant, but the Martin D mahogany 09 needs one to fully explain the situation. It's just one of those guitars. Rare instance
D18
Strumming 0:01 Flatpicking 1:10 Fingerpicking 1:57
D-28
Strumming 3:06 Flatpicking 4:19 Fingerpicking 5:05
HD-28
Strumming 6:43 Flatpicking 7:52 Fingerpicking 8:34
D18 sounds charm of mahogany
D18 gives woody subdued warmth. Love it.
As a blind fellow who couldn't see which one was being played and having trouble deciding between the D-18 and D-28 for myself, bless you for this.
To be clear, I meant the timestamps. Very helpful!
The D18 is just so “in your face”, it cuts through and isn’t really too heavy in the low end or top end. All 3 sound killer, but man D18’s just do it for me.
Not even a contest for me either.
No way hose b.
mahogany brother, mahogany ❤️
@@Steven-Duffy maybe for you, but not for me man. If they Yamaha does it for you, then awesome. We all like different things so it’s not about one guitar being better than the other. If they both sound good, then great. I’ve had my D18 for 4 years and it’s the most inspiring instrument I have it have ever had and it just keeps getting better. No need to try and swing me to the Yamaha side or make me question my purchase. You do you man.
@@Steven-Duffy i agree with robby. unfortunately every yamaha ive heard sounds like a toy compared to my D18, and the yamahas FEEL like toys, or like beginner guitars to my hands.
allll but this ONE epiphone texan i found, it sounds and feels pretty similar to my d-18 so i use it as a backup. (both are sitka spruce top with mahogany back and sides so makes sense)
hd 28 rings so fine to my ear
The D18 is so mellow and balanced. Such a beautiful sounding instrument
To me they all sound great and balanced well! The subtle strengths:
D-18 slow finger picking is so nice and mellow.
D-28 clarity crispness of each note, opens up on the flat picking jam
HD-28 clarity of each note crisp and clear especially on finger picking.
Great no-nonsense review. Covers everything very well. Three great Martin dreads.
My preferences: 1: the D-28 2: the D-18 3: the HD-28
D28 for me, balanced and clear but all 3 sound great and have their strengths.
Love them all a lot but, for me, the D28 stood out with it's great projection mixed with great balance.
Correct. Biased as I have one, but correct all the same. :)
I own a D-18 which I hold as the standard to all other guitars, the HD sounds like it has some brighter highs. No doubt all three are amazing and what a treat to hear them. If I could add to my collection I believe it would be the HD. I just feel very fortunate own at least one of these beauties !!
I own an HD and it is a CANNON! If I'm playing with others, I almost always strum with the side of thumb or it just blows everyone out. It made me fall in love with the guitar all over again. BUT, my next one will be the D18. If I hadn't gotten such a deal on the HD, I would've gotten the 18. I'm not a jealous man but I do envy you my friend...keep on picking"!
I’ve played all three. And for me the D-18 gets my money every time. I also own a twelve fret slot head CEO-5 Martin from 2002 and its a beauty as well. 🤠
Best shootout of these guitars on the internet :)
Thanks for the kind words Joey.
@@ianmeadows6351 what's your favourite out of the three?
@yumpladukfoo ???????????????????????? lazy af lol
My pick is the D18. Love that box.
I have an HD-28 and a D-18 and here’s what I’ll say. They’re both fabulous guitars. If you want a loud and responsive guitar, the D-18 is your friend. If you want a flat picking guitar and you want each note to be clear and clean then the HD-28 is your friend.
Strumming sounds pretty damn good on the HD28 also
@@williamrehl6520 agreed
The HD has more depth and woodiness and a similar piercing flatpicking sound to the regular D-28, so I would chose the D-18 for general strumming but the HD for bluegrass flatpicking.
This shootout is done very well. Thank you. Someone made a comment that the D-18 bass doesn’t stand out as much as people say it does. Well it actually is more present, what’s happening though is the D-18 being more balanced? Gives the auditory illusion of less bass, when in fact it is a stronger and more direct bass signal. I have used many D-18’s, D-28’s and several other Martins in the studio. I have heard this same comment before so many years ago I did an experiment t
Very cool, thanks for sharing with us.
Nice comparison!! I love Martin tone the best. They all great. D18 is lots of mid range, D28 is transparent and punchy tone and HD28 is boomy and punchy.
Great video and great sound quality. I'd vote for D-18 as my favorite.
Thanks for the kind words Chris. Can't go wrong with a d18.
A much needed comparison - much appreciated.
Thank you very much !
Message part 2. In the studio, using several different Martins, I only recorded the low E string. On all counts, except for one 1939 D-28, the D-18’s were far stronger on the bass response. It is because of the softer Mahogany wood. It’s an easy mistake to make. I have made it myself. Hope this helps.
😊
I thought I wanted a D-18 but that D-28 just blew me a way.
Awesome channel and content. My ONLY request is to edit the videos and put each guitars section right after each other so we can immediately discern any differences.
Thanks, trying to edit all new videos this way
Even though you stated the order of playing and have a list of the timestamps, perhaps a momentary screen label when each one is played so the viewer doesn't need to reference elsewhere. Thanks. Great job as always.
True, I don't exactly have an eagle eye but dark binding on the 18, off-white binding on the 28, and notice the dots change to diamonds and square pattern on the herringbone d28, hope that helps
Woah,
One of the best comparisons I've seen. Keep up the good work.
Prefer the rosewood 28's - either one. If I'm parting with money, the straight braced D-28 standard would do just fine.
funny, i just bought a d-18e, amazing instrument, but now having played it a while i wonder if i'd prefer the d-28, especially when playing with others. d-28 cuts so clear....
sell to me, perhaps?
Mighty fine picking, Ian!
Thanks my friend :)
I want to love the D-18 due to how mellow and warm it sounds, but it also sounds kind of dull/muted. Like there is a blanket over the tone.
@yumpladukfoo I love my HD-28 and it's gotten better as its aged. I just finally said to hell with it and I am happy enough with my classical when it comes to a warmed toned acoustic. I was always searching for that "magical" warm steel string but I got tired of chasing the dragon I guess.
Change strings
D-18 has the best sound to my ear. Not by a lot though. But just enough clarity in the mahogany to sing past the Rosewoods
D18 for the win.
Even though it isn’t the prettiest of these 3, and the most “affordable” as well, the D18 projects so well. The others sounded muffled or “constrained” compared to the D18.
It’s a cannon for sure.
The 28 is just so clear and chimey
how if its completely mid scooped like it should be with rosewood. the d18 is the most mid range bright of the bunch simply cuz of mahogany
if anything d28 and any rosewood acoustics always sound muddy. d18’s are more bright and clear because mahogany has a more even EQ than rosewood
D18 is sweet and elegant, lead you into nostalgic feelings.
Eye opener! D18 all the way.
Great comparison one of the best if not THE best! Great stuff 👍
Thanks for tuning in Gareth.
Wow this was awesome as always thank you!!
All are great flavors. I prefer the standard D series. Something about the tonality of standard X braced, non scalloped Martins that appeals to my ears. Thank you.
HD-28 just seems more pleasing to my ear. All sound great in their own right though
I cannot rate these guitars in order. They are all superb in their way as are all the Martin standards. The HD speaks to ME the most because of its expansive, rounded sound with added headroom. I have an HD35, and you can play that as quiet or loud as you like and it will never quit or distort. My friend has an 18 and it's also a beautiful guitar and breaks up in an elegant way at higher volumes. I cannot comment from first had experience on the 28, but on this showing it is closer to the 18 than the HD. Great test with lots of attention to keeping the playing similar between the guitars!
There's no clear winner to me Robert. It's all personal preference, or rather what tool fits best for the song...
I love the sound and look of the HD-28. I don’t think you could go wrong with any of these though. I own a J-40 and an HD-28 but I want to add a hog to the mix one of these days!
Nice display of tones
My son has a D-18GE, I have a D-28 Marquis. Both are fantastic.
Two phenomenal instruments!!!
Mids and highs excellent on all three. Bass gets better with price. 😉
I bought the 2028 D28 Modern Deluxe, great instrument
There are no better acoustics guitars than a Martin! Every Martin in this category sounds different to one another.
You just need to find the one that speaks to you best. Choose the one with the best voicing and feel. It’s a personal choice.
“Martin,There is No Substitute!” 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Ian you make every guitar you play come alive bro. Sincerely 👊🏼
Ian what strings do you use for d18 gere?
Wonderful about flawless playing they all sound great
Whenever I listen to a D18 vs D28, I always really like both and possible the 18 better... But when *I* play them for myself, I always greatly prefer the 28. Makes choosing between them tough!
I think it's because the D-18 has a certain clarity in the mid-range that makes it record so nicely. The D-28 has a lovely complexity and richness in the bass that makes it sound so nice to hear live. At least that's my experience.
I skipped from the strums on the d28 back to the d18 and the 18 is miles more my sound.
I love the presence of the high mids on the 18 much more and find 28 is more low mid focused.
I just sold my seagull which was spruce and wild cherry and I’d say it’s more like the 28. Obviously not as good but it’s more rounded and hoping to find something like the 18 at lower price for now
Great stuff. I have a D18 and HD28. Both great but for consistently hitting the spot inside of me the D18 always delivers. In this video upload all these axes are equally ferkin awesome to my ear.
I favor the D18. It has a better low end and is loud. The D28 and HD28 very nice too.
Goodness that hog sounds awesome!!
Played a d18 yesterday and a d28 too walked out with the d28.
J'adore le son cristallin des guitares Martin 👏👍🎶🎶
@0:00 D18
@3:06 D28
@6:43 HD28
Thank you. Was going to get around to adding the timestamps for all my videos, just haven't had the time yet! Apologies
Hi, great comparison but my "ear memory" can't really remember very well what the previous guitar sounded like when you switched to the next. It would have been easier if you let's say strum the same chord on all three guitars back to back (I know this would have required way more editing work). And then as you switched playing style and chord progressions and played each guitar back to back. I used to help beginners buy guitars by lining up 5 guitars of various brands, body styles, woods, and of course price range. I would tell them to close their eyes and I would play the same exact song/chord progression, hopefully with the same pressure and have them choose without having their eyes discriminating. I tried to make sure they I didn't play them in the same order so they wouldn't know which was which.
I've been asking this for weeks. I really hope he does this.
try them in person. that d18 will grab you bigtime.
There's time stamps in the description, just tap on them and it will jump between each guitar
I’m a huge D-18 fan. But WOW. That HD-28 is powerful
All three are wonderful sounding acoustic guitars. However, their descriptions are not quite correct, or complete. They appear to be from Martin's "Re-imagined" series (post-2012 or thereabouts). The "butterbean" tuners are the give-away. It's useful to check out Martin's website for the specifications of each model. There you will find that:
(a) The D-18 has SCALLOPED, forward-shifted X-bracing
(b) The D-28 has non-scalloped FORWARD-SHIFTED X-bracing
(c) the HD-28 has both scalloped and forward-shifted X-bracing
The bracing position has a significant influence on a guitar's sound. Notwithstanding, all three are fabulous instruments. Whether you'd hear their subtle differences when they're played among other instruments (e.g. in a bluegrass band) is another matter.
I would need time with all 3 plus a D35 and then decide. Unfortunately, most of us have to decide in a guitar shop and no matter how easy-going the shop, it's not the best environment for such a choice. Maybe the answer is to own each for a few months, then sell and buy the others in turn. After a year, think back and decide which one gave you most pleasure. Buying used would reduce any loss in value.
The HD28 is where its at. Truthfully, its a pickers guitar, but in the right hands (yours) reigns supreme even in the finger pickers realm. That said, its very unforgiving to the lesser skilled players, but rewards hansomly to the skilled ones.
cant go wrong with an HD28 Wayne. Thanks for tuning in.
Ian I’m torn between the HD28 and D28, for a solid all round great strummer and flat picker. I hear mixed reviews on the HD, which is your preference?
Honestly I’m an om guy but have strummed both and really liked the d-28 standard alottt
I love them all. The D-18 is warmer, D-28 brighter with better sustain, HD-28 sounds the same to me as the D-28. Next do a D-35 vs D-45 comparison please.
I'm happy to be able to hear these back-to-back-to-back. The D-28 comes off just a little too harsh, and the HD-28 seems to have a nice chimey sound kind of like a 12-string. But the D-18 just sounds so good to me and that's what I prefer out of the three. Maybe it's because I have basically a poor man's D-18 and I've gotten to really like that spruce and mahogany sound.
Hii @derelict fields , Can u suggest bit cheaper value for money option compare to D18 🙏😊
@nandish patel I've heard that Eastman, Larrivee, and Recording King have very good D-18 alternatives. I have a less expensive Martin (Cstom D Classic Mahoney) which is pretty good, too.
@@derelictfields first of all Thank you and Love from India ☺️.
I tried Breedlove guitars i founded it kinda Good one. (Though im not a professional or pro player, being just a mediocre with high taste ! ☺️)
The ones u mention are not available here in india, heard it for the 1st time :/ im a bit of fingerstyle player but looking for versatile one for life time keeping.
D28 for me! great comparison!
All 3 sound fantastic. The D-28 is the sound of Hank Williams. He played a 1941 D-28.
I get ear fatigue from the rosewood, not the hog like someone mentioned. Too complicated. I could listen to a D18 for hours on end. That said, rosewood adds great interest and punch when you need it!!! So thhey are all fantastic...just get one of each
Exactly. One of each sounds just right.
very useful! Thanks!
Great demonstration! I shows very clear the differences between mahagon back and sides and rosewood back and sides. The rosewood always gives this smiley face eq form, since the mahagon gives more "vintage" (more mids) sound. Thanks for this video! I have Guild CO-2 with mahagon back and sides and I like it very much for what it is. I hope some day I will lay my hands on some good dreadnought guitar with rosewood back and sides.
Thanks for watching Mihail. Rosewood is a beautiful tonewood for sure!
All three are nice !
Any idea why they never introduced a D18 with straight braces to complement the straight braced modern d28? When the d28 was first introduced in the 30s it wasn't called the hd28 it just had those specs. I find it curious. The fairest comparison is the d18 and hd because they both have scalloped braces, would be so curious to hear a straight braced d18
Interesting question! No idea though. I'll ask around
@@ianmeadows6351 awesome thanks! I know there's no substitute for playing in person but when that's not possible this is definitely one of the best channels for a reference point
D18 is a very beautiful guitar
so true.
Just bought a D-28 sunburst l hope l like 🙂
I bet youll love it Jeff, they are awesome.
Just ordered one yesterday!
DSS-17...Gives all three a run for their money..awesome guitar✌️
I'd take all three but prefer the D-18 over all of them. To my ear, it is easily a "do it all" guitar.
HD 28 FTW. I have a 12-year- old d18 that I have played exclusively I just picked up an HD 28. They do different things.
OK, I feel silly asking this, but how are we supposed to know which is which? I don’t see him changing guitars there’s nothing written across the video? He’s obviously not talking :-) so how do I know which is which please🙏🏻🙏🏻💫❤️🥰
He left the time stamps at the bottom which guitar he is playing
D28 by a mile, then the HD. Look, I get it, the D18 is great on these videos thru a shitty cellphone speaker, nice and middy, but not balanced and certainly doesn't have the low that people here keep mentioning. You can barely hear the bass notes plunk. D28 and HD are much more pronounced in the bottom, and have an overall better balance from low to high. D18 is ear fatigue after awhile. Compare them in person at a store and you will get what I'm saying. And if you still prefer the thinner sounding D18 that's ok too.
I love an 18 for certain things but you're correct here. Listening thru good headphones you can hear the bass is just so flat/clunky on the 18. I prefer to hear it.
gforce7four I own both a D-28 standard and a D-18 standard and I think you’re wrong here. I mean both are great guitars, but they have different tonal pallets. The D28 is supposed to have more bass, as that’s the frequency rosewood tends to naturally live in. But in a live setting and in recording that much bass isn’t always a good thing. Despite what people think there is such a thing as too much bass. The D-18 on the other hand has that just right mid range tone. Mahogany tends to give the D18 that warm mid range bump. Plus D-18’s are usually lighter in weight (less mass) which is great for tone transfer and can sometimes be just as loud, if not louder than D-28s. But you’re right, go play one in a store and make up your mind instead of listening to these videos on iPhone speakers.
I have to agree with Joshua here, Mahogany (D18) is balanced and Rosewood isn't, neither is bad just different, the best combo I ever tried in person was an Alvarez mahogany dreadnought with a cedar top, the sound was to die for and left many more expensive guitars in the shop far behind.
D18 is just...bass light, D28 is bass king, HD28 is Bass boss lol
@@HenryPipes You said it. I came to my music store ready to buy a used D-28 and walked out with a new D-18
The msrtin d28 is the best of the dreadnaut guitars. I've owned 3. Nothing else sounds as good to me.
That D18 is soooo sweet! You’re a great player man. So what year and nut widths are these. I love Martin but can only play 1 11/16” nuts
I’m trying to find an acoustic where it has a greater string spacing because most feel like the strings are really close together and very hard for me to play. Is this why you say that the 1-11/16 is preferred for you?
0:27
3:35
7:11
Absolutely fabulous demo my friend!!!! are they gauge 13's you have on those beautiful instruments?
Those are actually all 12's Eddy. Phosphor Bronze Daddario
@@ianmeadows6351 Cheers Ian!!! they sound excellent!!!
D28's you can feel in your body, HD28 are a little too bassy for me
Ride on man
D18 so precise and clear, sounds so right with that reverb
No reverb on here! Recorded direct with no processing.
@@ianmeadows6351 yes, i was pertaining to the natural reverb sound that the D18 produced.
Hi,
Which do you prefer D-28 or HD-28?
Thanks
D-28 crushes it! Not even close. Hits all the marks
I have an HD28 but I like the sound of Hog so D18 to me sounds best
Eu queria encontrar um violão com a sonoridade diferente mas até hoje não encontrei o único que eu encontrei foi o Takamine gd11 porque ele não tem tanto agudo como os demais
I wonder which one would sound best in a mix to me.. My guess is that the D28 is better in a mix than a D18
Hey there, so what’s the difference between the HD28 and the HD28 V?
Thanks
BTW- The recording was great. Mic sounded good, and no additional processing really helps! 👍🏼
Neck shape
I think you got an exceptional D28 here, the three I tried wouldn't have held a candle to the HD28 I played.
griphos5 d28s are straight braced and hd28s are scalloped. They’re very different sounding.
griphos5 they were very different to me when I played them. And actually the modern deluxe series are actually more heavily scalloped like the Golden Era series were. So supposedly the more scalloping the more movement of the top but when I played a d28md next to a stock hd28 I preferred the hd28. But the good news is that is why Martin makes so many models, because we all hear differently.
@@Griphos The D18 is mahogany back and sides where the 28's are rosewood.
Hello Ian, thank you for your demonstration and I would like you to give me some opinions on Martin D28 and Guild D55. I am about to choose one from these 2. I found some videos in youtube comparing the 2. Honestly, I don't have good ears to distinguish them nor am I a good guitar player in terms of skill. However, I still want to have a high end guitar. It seems that Guild D55 will cost more than Martin D28.
Hi Benny. Both of these guitars are excellent, you can't really go wrong. The D55 may be the choice if you like a little more bling. It's dressed up more then the D28. At this level, I'd say it's whatever one you're more drawn to!
@@ianmeadows6351 Thank you so much for your advice. You are so nice.
I have just given you a little support and shared with you my joy of buying a new guitar Guild D-55.
Hi Benny RIP Richie Havens plays a guild 55 sounds good
What year model is that D18? If it's 2012 or later,(and it looks and sounds like it is), it has forward shifted, scalloped bracing.
It's a 2019, you're absolutely correct on that. That was my mistake! I will edit the description.
It’s all about the back bracing
D18 is magic. Of course it may just be THAT D18. That's what I hate about acoustics in particular, so much variance from one to another.
Its true Todd, and it can be very frustrating. Just gotta play em.
Yep that's how it is with large guitar companies. But that's what mskes it fun too and special.
See every Martin, within each model, uses the same thickness top. Same thickness braces and scalloping. And they really don't tone tap, or check stiffness that in depth. And the variances in wood are endless. One too could be too heavy, too stiff, too floppy, for that bracing. Or vice versa. Too heavy bracing etc.
But once and awhile it all comes together for the perfect guitar. Perfect stiffness top for those braces. Shaved just right, etc. Perfect neck weight for it. Etc etc.
But that's also what mskes finding the right one so fun. Because when you do find that one where it all came together man o man. Then add in years of proven methods and top notch woods and you'll have one that will blow away a custom made guitar from a small builder.
And that guitar will be special and only u will own it
I have an HD-28. I bought it because of the overtones and how it rings like a bell when fingerpicking, which is mostly what I love and play. But man, that D-18 sounds incredible. If I bought one, I’m not sure how I’d decide which one to play. First world problems, I know!
Having both just means you can rotate between the two! They're all good in their own way
I'm surprised. I've always preferred rosewood guitars in general and D28's in particular. But man...that D-18 sounded spot on. Great highs/lows, good on strumming, flatpicking, and finger picking (although I think the finger picking wasn't it's strongest suit). The D-28 sounded a little tubby/boomy to me, although I've always found them to be full and lush. Not in this comparison.
i tried the d 18 and d28. that d 18 will grab you for life. change strings is its too mellow, or stick with stock mediums.
Thanks from korea south^^
The HD-28v beats them all.🎸
Having bought a new HD-28V a few months ago, I concur with you sir!
D28 sounds a little too chimey an resonant for my taste. It and the HD28 sounds nice but i preferred the tone of the D18 the best.
Can't go wrong with any Martin.
Throw an Swiss alpine spruce top in that 18, make the braces alpine or addy wood, and shave them a little bit more, and it will blow away all of them. Honestly I already like the d18 more in these clips. Nice example of a d18 you got there.
Nothing like a good hog backed guitar. Especially after they age. They will age better than the 28s too.
That would be a sweet axe. Martin should make it!
@@ianmeadows6351 They did. It's called the D mahogany 09 first year it wss made, and the D mahogany for years 2010-2013. Best value in Martin History. If you haven't heard of it, man oh man. Check it out. Authentic territory and cost 800 less than the GE. I know hard to believe, and alot of people say stuff, but thos is one of those times where it's fully true.
They only made 139 of them over 5 years. Not a limited edition. Just made small amounts. It's a Martin D 18 GE, same bracing style, cloth strips etc. GE. But with a high altitude Swiss spruce top and bracing. And a Katalox Bridge and Fretboard. Which I like more than ebony honestly and their most expensive fretboard wood. Its denser than ebony, rings like African Blackwood.
The Swiss top has all the qualities of the Adirondack GE, but sounds like a 50 year old Adirondack. Smooths the trebles some. And starts to sound like the authentic. Alot. And introduces overtones
You even got a volute on the back od the neck at the headstock. Only msrtin hog to do this. Neck profile is nicer too.
All vintage appointments. From the long saddle to angled nut.
Here's the crazy thing. They sold this guy, which cost them more to make than the GE, for 800 less. It's all completely fsc certified and we're trying to get it to take off. And priced it for trh first time ive seen in Martin History, extremely low. Lower profit margin.
And the FSC woods arent cheaper or young growth etc. So don't let that confuse u. The tops are old growth high altitude Swiss moon spruce. All Martins mahogany is mostly fsc certified anyway. So no change there. Amd guess what? You're garuteeed a one piece 100% genuine mahogany neck on these. No select wood. Ahain, I can't stress the value of these things. Gorgeous tops too man. The silking. Cross grain. 3d depth. Shimmer. Ugh. No runout anywhere. And THEY'RE MONSTERS. Super light and responsive. Again this is the first time they've used the high altitude Swiss spruce for not just the top, but the braces also on the same guitar. Light and stiff.
They beat the GE. Idk 9ne Dhog owner that would trade theirs for 2 golden eras and most sold theirs when they got theirs. They are close to authentics. Mine caused me to sell ny rosewood Martin. Guys that own authentics absolutely love them. Check them out man. Search the Martin D mahogany 09 club forum OK. Sorey for rambling but trust me. They're special. And the prices are silly.
The best kept secret in Martin History. I feel lucky to have one and ot cost me 2k brand new. Unreal. They didnt do well because the name wss terrible, and purists didnt know what katalox was at the time, and people don't understand fsc. Did you know fsc usually onky cuts the best and biggest tree in the area so its worth cutting and not wasted for, and other wild trees can grow and flourish? Has nothing to do with second growth, etc. Another reason they stopped making it. The fsc wood is much more expensive for Martin.
Anyway sorey for rambling. Check it out. Check the forums. And dont confuse It with that d custom mahogany or whatever for guitar center. Has absolutely nothing to do with it.
Mine will come with me to the grave. It's not s guitar you sell. Its a lifer.
@@ianmeadows6351 BTW sorry for the rant, but the Martin D mahogany 09 needs one to fully explain the situation. It's just one of those guitars. Rare instance