Blueridge BR-140/140A/160 VS. Martin D-28 75th Anniversary

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  • Опубликовано: 5 фев 2025
  • Store: store.banjobenc...
    I'm proud to be a Blueridge dealer! These are great guitars and here's an opportunity to hear an unbiased comparison between some models.

Комментарии • 313

  • @duaneholcomb8408
    @duaneholcomb8408 2 года назад +2

    I finger pick. And. I used to own a Martin but let it get away from me. But I purchased a blue ridge. And man. I'm sold on it. Maybe I just got lucky but wow. It has great tone. Sustain. And it booms loud. Very clear and distinct tone bright and. Very good for country and bluegrass and the action is low and smooth. Its a joy to play it easy on the fingers,,. I have several guitars but this might turn out to be my favorite. Wow amazing how good they sound. Well worth the money. You can keep your Martin I'm not letting any body have blue ridge. God bless take care,,,

  • @joebrennan4496
    @joebrennan4496 7 лет назад +28

    The BR160 is the one for me.Well balanced sound . I must say I am biased because I own one and it has got better with age.

  • @ronaldhowell4146
    @ronaldhowell4146 7 лет назад +6

    Glad you did this, I've had this 160 for a few years, to me the Martin was more balanced sound hearing low and high strings more evenly.

  • @mikepj1025
    @mikepj1025 6 лет назад +2

    Hey GREAT video. First time I’ve seen one of your reviews and it was fantastic. I liked how you played short locks back to back. VERY VERY helpful.

  • @b.j.surfdog3724
    @b.j.surfdog3724 6 лет назад +20

    I think the Br-160 tops them ALL. Nice sweet tone and projection.

  • @tomestes5806
    @tomestes5806 7 лет назад +12

    I too am a dealer and a player. For me the BR 160-A is great. They all have a wonderful quality at a reasonable price. Love what you do, Ben. I am a lifetime member and recommend you to others.

    • @belascialoja4812
      @belascialoja4812 6 лет назад

      Tom Estes -- I have one of the older 160A's - the ones with the 1 11/16" nut, and the ornate peghead. I think it's an '06 model -- not entirely sure. The Adi top has a beautiful skunk stripe, and it's the loudest "bluegrass" guitar I've ever heard, just an amazing box. /// Banjo Ben says the 1 3/4" nuts on the BR guitars are _narrower_ than the nut on his Martin. Wow - is this true? I didn't know they made a dreadnought with that wide a nut. It must feel like a classical guitar!

  • @mattcoswell1950
    @mattcoswell1950 2 года назад +1

    I own a BR160 & a BR180 they are great guitars & have a very big sound tho for mine they project so well on the high end range tho don't seem to have as much definition in the bass tones.. Really good comparison demo from Banjo Ben here .. very cool mate ! From the demos offered here I liked the BR 140A w the Adirondack top best.. so articulate w lovely low end projection & shimmer in the mids & highs. I was amazed w the quite drastic tonal differences on offer w each when so neatly edited for the video... Congrats & cheers for a great demo rundown Ben - Matt

  • @DCinDixie
    @DCinDixie 7 лет назад +1

    Hey Ben,
    I just got a BR-142 on 8/26/17. I'm really loving it so far. Its a 000 size body and 12 fret. Thanks for the comparison. Didn't realize you were a dealer!

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад

      Cool! Yeah, just got my first shipment in.

    • @DCinDixie
      @DCinDixie 7 лет назад

      It is the only 12 fret I've ever played and its taking a little getting used to the shorter neck, not a cut away either, I really like the way it sounds and its playability though. I'll buy my next one from you.

  •  6 лет назад +3

    Great comparison between all 4! I was surprised by the 140 sound! That would be my first choice for a budget purchase. If I had to decide between the 3? The 140A!! 160 projects very well but the 140A sounds overall more robust. And with that top it will only get better with time!
    Thank you for A/B/C/D test! Merry Christmas!!

  • @paulstabin6233
    @paulstabin6233 6 лет назад +3

    Wow. All sounded great. Thought I would like the 160 best. but actually the 140's stole the show. The 140A seems a tad warmer than the 140, but not necessarily better. Clear yet warm. The 160 sounded best at around 9:30, even better than the D28- just on that piece. Otherwise the 140's ruled.
    The Martin was better overall. No surprise. The big surprise is how close the Blueridge models came. And they are not even broken in!
    Thank you. Great playing by the way, made for a truly awesome comparison test.

  • @hermanjaspers730
    @hermanjaspers730 6 лет назад +1

    Hello , I have a Martin HD 28 - CTB for decades but I changed playing my Martin to play my Blueridge BG-160 just for fun . Used to play my Martin , I was supprised by the sound of the Blueride. So now I am still playing my Blueridge for as long it may take. Regards , Herman , the Netherlands.

  • @IDVDalot
    @IDVDalot 5 лет назад +2

    To me they all sounded exactly the same JUST BEAUTIFUL!

  • @GA1dad
    @GA1dad 7 лет назад +17

    Of the 3 Blue Ridge models, I liked the 140A the best. While there was nothing wrong with the other two and they rang beautifully on the high end, I felt that the new strings were carrying them just a bit. The 140A had more depth by my ear. But,, we all have different ears and that's what makes music great!! Thanks for the demonstration!!

    • @Braddw8369
      @Braddw8369 3 года назад +2

      140A

    • @ramspencer5492
      @ramspencer5492 9 месяцев назад

      I thought it was a little tinny up top, especially playing up high on the e string.... Compared to the regular 160... It the 140a Maybe it is just set up

  • @deanrichard3193
    @deanrichard3193 5 лет назад +3

    In this test, I honestly felt the BR140A was the best of the bunch in each example, until your last example. The Martin won that one for me, more articulate. Just the same, overall I would take the BR140A. I was surprised how much the 140 and 140A differed, and it makes me wish I had a Blueridge with an Adirondack top. I have had a BR160 for several years, so I know the sound, and it has a sweet high end, perfect for rhythm guitar tracks in a mix, not always as articulate in the low end. Lots of overtones. Good news is that over time it has gotten more rich and balanced, and I consider it a very nice guitar that with age sounds a lot better than the new one you demo'd. Thanks for the demo. I just came across it tonight. I agree about the nut width. The Blueridge is a little more narrow than my preference.

  • @treebrother
    @treebrother 6 лет назад +5

    They all sounded great. I found that for me the 140 and the D28 seemed to have a bit more presence with the highs..Thanks for the comparison..

  • @dadgadfolkmusic200
    @dadgadfolkmusic200 3 года назад +2

    The 140 was the best sounding guitar out of the three blueridges, followed by the 160, then the 140A. I think the 140A sounded the way it did because Adi tops take a year or two to open up and that 140A was a new guitar. As for the Martin, I really think it sounded great, but the 140 still had some clarity over the martin due to the mahogany back in MHO. Thanks for taking the time to do this demo.

  • @truthof7382
    @truthof7382 6 лет назад +2

    Thanks for demo. I had a br-140 and sold it because of what I hear in these demos, the Blueridges are well made, but they just sound too open to me. Makes a mush of sound with chords. Same goes for the Eastmans for me. For same price range I prefer the Guild Westerly series (China made like Blueridge and Eastman) guitars. The Martin kills all of them for warmth, separation and clarity. Everyone’s ears are different. Thanks again for your efforts here. Nice playing.

  • @752brickie
    @752brickie 6 лет назад +4

    I liked the 160 myself but all in all they were amazingly close.

  • @codatalltree8434
    @codatalltree8434 6 лет назад +3

    Grate video brother and I like how you played the same thing on all guitars for it makes it easier to compare. I thought the Blueridge 160 had the best overall sound and as I play different genres of music I am really liking that 160 and that one seems to be topping my list for my next guitar. Thanks

  • @5StringNeil
    @5StringNeil 7 лет назад +1

    I just got a 140 last week so I'm glad it gets good reviews.

  • @1811bruce
    @1811bruce 7 лет назад +1

    Hello Ben, Love your site, i am a Lifetime member. I think those Blueridges sound pretty dog gone good compared to the Martin especially for the difference in price! When i get ready i will hook up with you, thinking the 160. Thanks for all that you do!

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад

      Sounds good! Thanks!

  • @alexclayton7828
    @alexclayton7828 7 лет назад +4

    The Blueridge BR-140 would be my pick. It is the most balanced. It also seems like it mics really well!

  • @mgh8303
    @mgh8303 3 года назад +1

    Since you sell both, I would love to see you compare the BlueRidge BR-160 with the Recording King equivalent. Or the mahogany versions. THey are all often compared to the Martins, which makes sense, but for the $1000 or less crowd, the BR and Recording King comparison would be awesome. Thanks!

  • @incognito2246
    @incognito2246 5 лет назад +2

    Thanks for this vidéo Ben !
    To my ear, I choose the BR140 : more complexity and ´´zing’’ in the sound. More open and clear too.
    Your D28 is amazing when strumming ; very full sound but with a lot of clarity. The best in arpegio demo too.
    I had a BR40 that I sold. Since I had 2 luthier guitars of 4000 Euros, some Martin and Gibson ... but till today, my BR40 miss me. It was a splash of sound from low to High end ; very responsive and lively. I still hunt for another Blueridge keeper since.

  • @thomasjackson1345
    @thomasjackson1345 7 лет назад +3

    By far the best side by side I've heard for any comparison! The Martin of course makes me want to jump up and dance; I had one from 1979 with the old neck and high action that just wasn't playable, but now wished I hadn't parted with it in 1988. Everyone is right; 140 is crisp and balanced, but I have enough Mahogany guitars. I love how the BR-160 sings, and though it lacks some of Martin's depth in the lows, and articulation, it held up remarkably well in the last riff. Just ordered mine! It is going to compete with this new extraordinarily playable Epiphone DR-500 Mahogany I recently got. And the Seagull S-6 is a sweet guitar. Got one for a song from an older gent with arthritis. Somehow my 25 year old Martin M-36 just never completely seduced me. Might have to sell that. As for the Chinese, well, them's gotta eat too, and between us, we've made it so only the wealthy can afford solid Martins and Taylors. Glad some North Americans are making some money from the Blueridges. Again, an awesome comparison. Thanks. Wish you had thrown in a 160A but Maury has a good comparison, and I'm with the folks who like the slimmer necks. PS The Martin was louder and just a few times seemed to overpower the mic, and like you said, I wonder how the BRs will sound in a few years.

  • @HotRod11
    @HotRod11 7 лет назад +2

    Absolutely, the Martín has the best sound, I think it's stronger...
    Thanks for sharing! Greetings from Chile ;)

  • @davidcoates2265
    @davidcoates2265 4 года назад +4

    the 140 sounded best- through ALL the pieces you played- Thanks

  • @blorengecounty1405
    @blorengecounty1405 7 лет назад +1

    Have you tried the diadario ej19's bluegrass split set 13/12s . My new favourite strings now. The exp version are not too shabby either . Less string changing

  • @theshyguitarist
    @theshyguitarist 6 лет назад +13

    The 140a took it man....absolutely destroyed the D28....*running away at top speed*

  • @keithadams3513
    @keithadams3513 10 месяцев назад

    I've had a 160 for about 8 years and sounds awesome. Sounds better the older it gets.

  • @nathoniel01
    @nathoniel01 6 лет назад +28

    I actually like the 140 the best, and this is coming from a guy that currently owns a Taylor 224 cek, 65 Gibson hummingbird, and a Martin d41.

    • @corbinfloyd9467
      @corbinfloyd9467 2 года назад

      That d41 is a tank man, I like the 140 as well but i love those d18 models

  • @rogerwilliams6625
    @rogerwilliams6625 2 года назад

    I couldn't tell a lot of difference in any of them. I did feel like the BR 160 and the D-28 were very similiar and they had a slightly deeper tone. They all sound great. All I have is a BR-43, but I love it. Thanks for the video. I actually had a Martin and sold it and bought the Blueridge. The neck width and guitar size was the reason.

  • @PeitouBob
    @PeitouBob 7 лет назад +6

    The 140A rang out on the highs and overall sustain. The 160 and 28 had positive nuances, but I'd take either one... The 28 was a hair better overall: More depth, More sustain...hardly noticeable, tho.... I have a BR160 Historical Series and an HD28 Custom Grand Marquis.... Paradise...

  • @allosaurusfragilis7782
    @allosaurusfragilis7782 4 года назад

    Ive had one for 20 years. Great sounding guitar.

  • @turrafirmaguitarchannel
    @turrafirmaguitarchannel 2 года назад

    Great comparison video thank you very much! All the guitars sound very good to my ear and no brainer if you can’t afford the legend to go for one of the Blueridges. One thing that surprised me though with a br160 I owned was the very low bridge height. That combined with low saddle on mine meant the height of the strings off the body was a lot less than 1/2 inch which is optimal for golden era style guitars. That said it still produced a big warm sound. I reviewed it on my RUclips channel.

  • @TadMars
    @TadMars 4 года назад +3

    Just got the BR-140A and so far it’s the best sounding guitar I’ve owned. Hardly put it down

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  4 года назад

      They're incredible! I get a bunch more in in a couple weeks for Black Friday.

    • @TadMars
      @TadMars 4 года назад

      @@BanjoBen they really are. I’ve played a ton of guitars and they just have a special sound and can’t beat the price

  • @fernieboy6195
    @fernieboy6195 6 лет назад

    This is the best comparison in between Martin and Blueridge guitars by far , thanks 🙏 Martin sounded slightly better than Blueridge Br-160 but definitely can’t justify the price so I’ll go with Blueridge for beat value for the money

  • @GeroLubovnik
    @GeroLubovnik 6 лет назад +4

    I gotta tell you Ben, no offense, but the D28 was my 3rd favorite. I liked the clarity and complexity of the 140A and the 160 better. I found the D28 to be both scooped and a bit muddy. Perhaps it was the mic position and I would have liked the D28 had you backed the mic off a bit. Not sure, but I heard what I heard.

  • @juanca9915
    @juanca9915 5 лет назад +1

    Hi Ben! Great arsenal there! Congrats! I think the more balanced overall is the Martin...and the closest to the D-28 in my opinion was the BR160, but also loved the sound of the BR140A...Cheers!

  • @jimmy5634
    @jimmy5634 7 лет назад +16

    I did a side by side and found the 140A sounded more like the D28 even though it has a mahogany back and sides.

    • @deanrichard3193
      @deanrichard3193 5 лет назад +4

      I agree. IMO those two sound a fair amount alike. My take is that the Adirondack spruce top contributes more to the overall sound than the difference between mahogany and rosewood for the body. It would be interesting to hear the Martin compared to a BR160A to see if they are even more alike. But as a matter of personal taste, I preferred the BR140A over the Martin, straight up regardless of price. I think the combo of Adirondack spruce and mahogany is a more balanced sound. The Martin projects well but is somewhat bright / thin. The mahogany has more midrange and works well with the adirondack spruce. Just my taste.

    • @brandonburdick7820
      @brandonburdick7820 4 года назад +2

      I agree, probably the Adirondack top, it gave the guitar a more focused sound, and his d-28 had an Adirondack top as well. The other two blueridges were Sitka Spruce

    • @stevelangord8652
      @stevelangord8652 4 года назад

      Yeah I agree. I like that 140A. Authentic Martin sound, very warm and bright when necessary, at the same time. I do like the looks of the 160.

    • @larrydunn4626
      @larrydunn4626 4 года назад

      agreed. I am not a fan of the modern D28 sound in general, unless prewar. ... owned one, sold it, got a David Russell Young 1971 IR/Cedar, and that is my preferred Dread sound. My preference of the four you demo'd was the 160. If a guitar doesn't have at least a teeny bit of Olson chime, and sounds very woody, I just think it's missing something.
      When my daughter in college wanted a guitar, I looked for an older 000-18, but then realized the BR143 sounds so great for so little money that's what she got.

    • @austincarroll3260
      @austincarroll3260 2 года назад

      I thought the same thing! Interesting. I'd be curious to hear the 160A alongside these.

  • @jeffhildreth9244
    @jeffhildreth9244 2 года назад +1

    I have a BG 60 I would put up against any of these. It has aged nicely. Fine player.
    Blue Ridge is an excellent choice as a modestly priced, well made, excellent sounding and playing alternative.
    I have owned 15 Martin guitars since 1961 to include D-18GE, several D-18V variants, and two top of the line customs. Because of declining product quality and diminished customer service I now buy only used Martins and look elsewhere such as Santa Cruz and Collings for premium brands. I will keep my 2015 00-18V and my 1997 0000-1
    (one of 370). Both bought used and mint.

  • @TheRycooder
    @TheRycooder 7 лет назад +1

    I have the BR-160A and I'd put it up with any instrument and FOR the Money, it can't be beat. In the vid I did like the Br-140A the best of the Blueridge and it actually held it's own with the Martin imho.
    One note...I bought the PrimeVibe and used it on my 160A for 80 -hrs and it was UNBELIEVABLE how much it opened it up....
    BLUERIDGE and PrimeVibe....Great job!!

  • @dewaynegilliam7795
    @dewaynegilliam7795 2 года назад

    That D28 sounds awesome! But I love Martins and Blueridge guitars and have several of them both. Out of these three Blueridges, the BR-140A is more balanced to my ears. And the D28 is louder and balanced. I’d own and play any of these 4. Thanks Ben for posting!

  • @CargoShorts7
    @CargoShorts7 Год назад

    Are your thoughts still the same on these guitars after a few years? I’m torn between the BR-140 and 160, as well as their A counterparts. I saw a nice looking BR-140A for sale online, but I’m slightly worried that the 140A might be lacking a little in the low end. It is a few years old though, so maybe it’s opened up more. Then there’s a 160A that I’m also looking at, but the 160/160A seem less balanced maybe? The 140/140A also just fits my current budget better. Lastly, which one is more versatile would you say? I play a mix of Americana rock, folk, blues and I want to get more into bluegrass. Cheers!

  • @MikeSuttonXerox
    @MikeSuttonXerox 7 лет назад +1

    I recently purchased a new Taylor 314ce which I love, but now I feel myself wanting to become somewhat of a collector of various types of guitars. Always fascinated with Blueridge. This was an excellent review. The 140A definitely had a deeper tone than the 140 and the 160 honestly sounded throatier than your Martin. Very impressed with that model and may look to purchase one if I can't find a Dowina 12-string first! Definitely will be looking to play one if I can get one at a Sam Ash or some such sometime soon. Thanks again and great playing! I'm a 57-yo beginner when it comes to pickin, but can bar cord and rhythm pretty well. Here's to catching up!

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад +1

      Hey Mike! Have fun on your journey! I'd sure be honored to have your business and I'd make it worth your while to purchase from me...check out the new site: banjobenclark.com

    • @MikeSuttonXerox
      @MikeSuttonXerox 7 лет назад

      Thanks Ben! I sure will revisit your site when I get ready to pull trigger on my next. I'd like to have one I travel with (ie, affordable so I don't cry if I bang it up a bit!). Looks like you've got them priced very well and competitively and other than that Aggie helmet in your videos, you're a really great guy! LOL!

  • @sirtango1
    @sirtango1 7 лет назад

    Man that 140 sounds SWEET! I have several Martins and I'm kinda partial to them. But recently I went to my local music store looking for a D-35 12 string. There was only one 12 string in the store at the time and when I strummed it I thought the guy handed me a Martin. Turned out it was a Takamine lawsuit era guitar. It had that Martin "boom" to it. The bridge was pulling up a little on the corner and I got it for a steal. I glued and clamped the bridge back down and 24 hours later it was like new! I think my next purchase will be a 140 though. From what I just heard I was really impressed. Would like to see some close to home so I can take my pick of the lot! Thanks for the comparison!

    • @gingerbeer914
      @gingerbeer914 5 лет назад

      Sitka spruce goes very well with mahogany. I love my BR-341 parlor guitar.

  • @WCWMidnight
    @WCWMidnight 8 месяцев назад

    how do you think the martin d-35 compares to the Blueridge BR-160? I like the bass of the martin, but not looking to spend any more money that on another martin. I own 3 already.

  • @ralphroles5483
    @ralphroles5483 5 лет назад

    I believe the BR160 had a very good tone and sounding, but they all sounded somewhat similar.
    I have several Martin guitars, such as the D41 and the D18, but wouldn't mind adding another one to my repertoire like the BR160. Thanks for the demonstration!

  • @gilazevedo3114
    @gilazevedo3114 Год назад

    Thanks for the video my friend, it's incredible and you also play a lot...
    well I have a Blueridge br160 and I was always curious to know a D28.... here in Brazil they say that blueridge was founded by luthiers who worked at Martim and until then I don't know if it's a myth or truth... if anyone can help me clarify..
    but the fact is that, regardless of that, they are really incredible guitars... surely anyone who has any of them will be happy..
    thanks again for your video friend .. success

  • @buddybeetle
    @buddybeetle 5 лет назад +19

    I felt the 140 was clearly superior to the 140A in tone. Surprised.

    • @TropicalLatitude
      @TropicalLatitude 4 года назад +2

      @yumpladukfoo The 140 has a very thin neck while the 140a has a wider/fatter one.

    • @pplareppl
      @pplareppl 4 года назад +4

      I heard some say Adirondack takes time to open up and if so this might probably be the case. But I usually like sitka over adi anyway.

    • @dadgadfolkmusic200
      @dadgadfolkmusic200 3 года назад

      @@pplareppl that is correct, about 18 month of playing to open up

  • @guibox3
    @guibox3 7 лет назад +3

    I like the 140A sound the best. It just sounds the most solid out of all of them. However, I do think the Martin edges them all out. Still...great guitars!

  • @Life-of-Bluegrass_Music
    @Life-of-Bluegrass_Music 6 лет назад +1

    Ben the BR 160 is Blueridges HD 28 v it has pre war forward shifted bracing

  • @robmiller3464
    @robmiller3464 2 года назад

    Thanks Ben, great comparison. What pick are you using in this video? Thanks

  • @jefferyhill4857
    @jefferyhill4857 7 лет назад +5

    Just my opinion but the BR-160 was the best. Rich lows and highs. Very loud and clear.

  • @johnmeikel5002
    @johnmeikel5002 2 года назад

    I love the sound of all of them, but I think I'm going to lean towards the BR 1-40👌
    Great demonstration on all the guitars I loved it.

  • @luvkountry
    @luvkountry 4 года назад

    In my opinion the D28 definitely has the edge. Somewhat fuller sound although the Blueridge guitars are very sweet. Hard to beat the Martin Quality and it is obvious. Thank you for your great talent and video.

  • @rbfour5
    @rbfour5 7 лет назад +1

    Honestly, I like the BR-140; it has a nice blend of lows/mids/highs; the BR-140A has very little low/ a big mid range/ lacking in the highs; the BR-160 has very little low end/ good mids/ heavy on the highs. I know this is subjective, nut that's what I hear. I would purchase the BR-140 over the other two. Your 75th Anniversary Martin D-28, well it speaks for itself! Thanks for the comparison. Dean

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад

      These are very similar to my thoughts. Thanks!

  • @terryhack8498
    @terryhack8498 7 лет назад

    I'm been thinking about getting the historic BR 160 / it has pre war bracing. I don't think for the price you can beat them.

  • @NoraphonKaedklung
    @NoraphonKaedklung Год назад

    The mahogany on both 140 are very clarify, Thank you.

  • @alboydab
    @alboydab 7 лет назад

    Definitely the BR140 for an all rounder, sweet sound.
    Greetings from Scotland, following religiously on RUclips 👍

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад +1

      Hope to come your way someday soon! Thanks!

    • @alboydab
      @alboydab 7 лет назад

      Banjo Ben Clark
      I'll be first in the queue for tickets Ben, wonderfully uplifting music

  • @larsbarres9927
    @larsbarres9927 6 лет назад

    Wow - thank you for posting this, very helpful!

  • @tacratt6091
    @tacratt6091 7 лет назад

    Are the necks on the the Blueridge a soft v or the low profile crap like Martin is using, I love the new D18’s with the scalloped bracing but I hate the neck profile. I like the old Martin soft v.

  • @thomastommy1192
    @thomastommy1192 3 года назад

    Awesome video thanks for sharing. Do you sell these guitars? If so, Could you please send me a prices? Thank you, Thomas.

  • @greatbigbengaltiger
    @greatbigbengaltiger 5 лет назад

    As I'm left handed, two stores in town have lefty versions of the guitars you played: A D28 an a BR160. The Blueridge is rougly 8,000dkk and the Martin is 23,000. I like the idea of having an ebony fretboard, my Les Paul Custom has one and its got great "spank". But your video hear I heard very little tonal difference, or maybe that's just me. Is the Martin worth saving up 3 times the amount of the Blueridge?

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  5 лет назад +1

      Depends on the Martin ;)

    • @greatbigbengaltiger
      @greatbigbengaltiger 5 лет назад

      @@BanjoBen HD-28 I reckon, leaning towards saving up for it

    • @gingerbeer914
      @gingerbeer914 5 лет назад

      It all depends on WHICH Martin you buy. Many Martins have "Richlite" fretboards.
      Since 2017 Blueridge has used pao ferro and ebony for the fretboards and they may return to Indian rosewood, now the CITES rules have been amended.

  • @BrentOrman
    @BrentOrman Год назад

    Nice. I'd buy one if they came with a pickup. Found a used one for $480 but to put pickup in it would cost more than half as much as the guitar itself.

  • @wheezyjefferson9136
    @wheezyjefferson9136 7 лет назад +10

    Man, all that pickin has given you Hulk arms, lol! Seriously, great comparison! I can't afford a Blue ridge, let alone a Martin, but my Seagull gets a lot of love.

    • @kencullen6889
      @kencullen6889 6 лет назад

      I picked up a used one great price great guitar. look for use one you’ll love it .Seagull are good to

    • @jonjeffries3265
      @jonjeffries3265 6 лет назад

      I've heard some great sounding Gulls..

  • @shawnsitter5390
    @shawnsitter5390 2 года назад

    What strings do you recommend for BR-160? Thank you for your video.

  • @billdedrick1914
    @billdedrick1914 3 года назад

    To my ear BR140 and D28 very close-- what strings, gauge, age were on each?

  • @bobbadfinger2
    @bobbadfinger2 4 года назад

    Very useful comparison, great playing. I liked the Martin better, then the BR-140.

  • @rickeyfields2533
    @rickeyfields2533 4 года назад

    The 140 A had a very bright and very present tone I would like to here what a 160 A sounds like I’m thinking that will be my next purchase

  • @ebroberts
    @ebroberts 7 лет назад +12

    Of the Blueridge guitars, the BR-140 sounds the best. In my opinion, the Martin beats all of these by far, but for beginner guitarists, you won't be able to find a better guitar for a good price than the BR-140.

  • @aquiverfull5541
    @aquiverfull5541 6 лет назад +1

    Loved the Jesus Loves me fingerpicking!💕

  • @markhall7951
    @markhall7951 2 месяца назад

    I like the D28. Never played a Blueridge, but the comp is the 160 and I think the Martin is balanced and has a bigger all around sound. Blueridge sounds like on the higher end of moderately priced guitars, like a larivee or a really good Yamaha from the '70's.

  • @budchestnut9303
    @budchestnut9303 5 лет назад

    I liked the 140A and the Martin. But... and there is always something. The overall sound of the Martin was less muddy on the strumming and midrange. I think the D28 is played in. You may not have heard the slight tuning issues that developed but it made choosing harder. Be blessed!

  • @akgeezer
    @akgeezer 3 года назад

    I felt they increased in tonal quality as you played them in this sequence. 140, 140A, 160, and D 28. There were no losers here. They all would sound great on their own!!!

  • @shawnglass108
    @shawnglass108 7 лет назад +1

    Amazing how much more powerful and balanced the Martin is but the BR 140A sounded great for its price. I’m looking for a nice guitar as a backup to my Martin HD-28 that I can take to parties, campfires, etc..and not worry about. The BR 140A looks like a good option.

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад

      It is a hoss...I love these guitars. Give Jake a call at 833-BANJOBEN and we'll do a pro set-up and get it in your hands!

  • @angelovanoeveren7936
    @angelovanoeveren7936 4 года назад

    Banjo Ben,
    I Just bought a 2007 lefthanded Blueridge Br 140a wide.
    Can you remember what strings you used during this session?
    One love!
    The Netherlands 🇱🇺

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  4 года назад +1

      Great guitar, congrats! I believe they are D'Addario EJ17.

  • @arthurogle7581
    @arthurogle7581 5 лет назад

    I've played many guitars in 70 years. My prefererred genre is Bluegrass, I belong to a BG club which has monthly meetings. Last meeting was attended by
    a guy who owns a Blueridge BR160. He played banjo (Huber VRB) and I played his BR160 (for 2 hrs). His 160 in a blindfold test sounds as good as any
    Martin D28 owned by others. And better IMO than a $4,000 + Collings. Listening to Ben's demo the 140 is top drawer and = to the 160 or the D28,
    Jus sayin!

    • @hogant.551
      @hogant.551 4 года назад

      All the bluegrass hipsters think Blue Ridge is the best then they complain about how America is losing good jobs and how their guitars keep tearing up.

  • @EricMooreGuitar
    @EricMooreGuitar 7 лет назад

    Of the blueridge guitars, I really liked the BR140. It seemed to have more clarity about it.

  • @gateroadmusic
    @gateroadmusic 4 года назад +1

    Both the Martin and Blueridge that have the Adirondack tops sounded the best to me on single note picking and rhythm. Better sustain and volume .

  • @mikehuffman5460
    @mikehuffman5460 6 лет назад

    the d28 is my favorite, but they all sounded great I liked the 140a and the 160 a lot I owned a
    blueridge 280, [Brazilian rosewood], for a few years. that was a nice guitar. I had a martin d35
    at the same time they both were great sounding guitars

  • @VictoryJohn
    @VictoryJohn 6 лет назад

    mahogany is my normal choice for personal use I hear it project on your 140 even my custom Martin is Moahogany its my favorite...I do have an Alvarez MD90 WITH SOLID ROSEWOOD i picked up for 200 with case then had bridge work and custom pickguard installed. Its worth 900 now and sounds perfect also for mic work.

  • @jlange6171
    @jlange6171 6 лет назад +1

    To me it varies a bit between phrases, but I tend to like the 140

  • @tattooeditalian2895
    @tattooeditalian2895 5 лет назад

    I have a blueridge br63. My son loves it. I also have a Martin D1. I would love to have a D28 and a D18 but they are a lot of $$. How is the quality of the Blueridge these days? I really like the 140 and the 160 you did in the video. I played a brand new D28 and the quality and feel were amazing.

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  5 лет назад

      They're as good as ever!

  • @zachwaldis1833
    @zachwaldis1833 4 года назад

    I thought the Martin sounded best, but great comparison. Thanks.

  • @quigley4440
    @quigley4440 7 лет назад

    Great comparison Ben and playing short bursts with each one after the other I could appreciate the different tonal qualities of each guitar. Each guitar has it's own qualities and it's not which one is better or best. For a singer/songwriter the 140A would fit my voice and be my gig guitar. The "Adi" top gives the mahogany body more headroom here. For playing solo guitar the 160A is simply wonderful. You gotta pick the one that plays on your heartstrings. Now, about that Martin $$$$$$. Yikes.

  • @fernieboy6195
    @fernieboy6195 6 лет назад

    Br160 for me is the best , no way to justify the price of Martin Guitars they are overpriced . Great video thanks !!!

    • @denieledwards6893
      @denieledwards6893 5 лет назад

      AGREED MARTIN AND GIBSON PRICES IN 2019 ARE JUST THROUGH THE ROOF IT'S ALL ABOUT GREED AND HOW MUCH MONEY WE CAN MAKE, SO I HAVE TO TAKE MY HAT OFF TO COMPANIES GIVING THEM A RUN FOR THE MONEY, AND YES CHINA CAN AND WILL PRODUCE GREAT GUITARS CK OUT THE EASTMAN'S AMAZING GUITARS FOR A FAIR PRICE.

  • @johnlannigan7453
    @johnlannigan7453 3 месяца назад

    I liked the 140. Was deep, rich. All good. & and a good demo

  • @amazingme1408
    @amazingme1408 7 лет назад

    martin wins again BUT....Very impressed with all the rest...the simple 140 stunned me...thanks for this..u are a wonderful player

  • @Morten_Nielsen1979
    @Morten_Nielsen1979 6 лет назад

    Surprisingly, there is very little difference between all 4. I am interested in a Martin D-18, so it was the BR-140 and the BR-140A I focused on. The BR-140 sounded a little better to my picky ears. They say that an Adirondack top takes a lot of time (some claim years) to break in, and that it will just continue to sound better and better over time. So therefore, a new Engelmann or European spruce top guitar will always win, when compared to a similar new Adirondack top guitar. Dear good ol' Banjo Ben, what is your take on this matter? Which of the two guitars would you choose?
    It's hard to find high quality guitar comparison-videos. They are often too short, and the players are not skilled enough to make a good demonstration. This video is very good. Thank you my good man!

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  6 лет назад +2

      Honestly, I haven't had enough tangible evidence presented to me that Adirondack is that much better over time. They say it is, and I tend to believe them, but I just haven't personally "felt" it. Thanks!

    • @Morten_Nielsen1979
      @Morten_Nielsen1979 6 лет назад

      @@BanjoBen Hi again Banjo Ben. Gee, I just found out you are selling guitars. I did not know that. I was checking out the Eastman E6D and somehow ended up in your online shop. We both play the same style of music, and you are obviously a trustworthy man, plus you set the guitars up before you ship them, so you are the perfect man to buy from. The question is if you can ship a guitar to Spain?

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  6 лет назад

      I sure do! We send a lot of instruments to Europe and elsewhere. Just make sure to be familiar with the import charges you may experience by your government...there is nothing we can do about that. I know that folks in the UK are sometimes surprised when they discover the import tax.

  • @kjg2228
    @kjg2228 5 лет назад

    Hi. I would love to know what song that was you were playing at/about 9 minutes. Thanks, thinking about buying the Blueridge as my next level up guitar. Thanks!

  • @iloverumi
    @iloverumi 7 лет назад

    Great video. Are dreadnoughts the ideal model for bluegrass?

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад +1

      Yep, according to most folks :) I like variety, though.

  • @CrispyMOFO91
    @CrispyMOFO91 3 года назад

    I liked the 140 out of the 3 BlueRidge guitars. 160 was a little light on the reverb in my own opinion.

  • @kimbeaver5446
    @kimbeaver5446 7 лет назад

    Hey, can you do a lesson on how to play blue moon of kentucky on guitar? There is literal no way to learn it except by watching somebody play it, (which there's like only one of those) or buying the music with ryan version. I know it's more of a fiddle/mandolin song but it sounds really good

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад +1

      I'd love to! It's copyrighted, so illegal to teach unless you have the licenses. I will begin that process for sure.

    • @kimbeaver5446
      @kimbeaver5446 7 лет назад

      That would awesome

  • @jackgray1982
    @jackgray1982 7 лет назад

    I have had my br160 at the 2 year mark Love it I even prefer it over my Martian it has an awesome tone

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад +1

      I'm glad you love your 160! Please keep the anti-Martian rhetoric to a minimum, though.

  • @TJCalmando
    @TJCalmando 7 лет назад +1

    I think you make just about any guitar sound good. To my ears all the Blueridge guitars sound great and I've played a BR-140 before and I was impressed with the sound. Now when you play the Martin it definitely has a sweet sound that sets it apart.

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад +2

      I agree the Martin sounds better, but by golly...it should! I'm extremely impressed with this 140.

    • @chuckloker8100
      @chuckloker8100 7 лет назад

      I admit to being a bit of a Martin guitar snob mostly because of the high build quality, tone, playability and that they are family owned in America. If I had to pick a favorite combination of top and back and sides it is Adirondack top with mahogany back. I have a couple of Martin's with this combination that ring like a church bell. Of the Blueridge guitars you played my ear loved the tone of the basic BR140. Great base, note separation and volume. Thanks for the fun video and the help you provide to thousands of guitarists.

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад +1

      I'm with you, friend.

    • @denniswood5554
      @denniswood5554 7 лет назад

      I get so caught up in your ability to play that I loose focus, but I really like the no muffle sound of the BR 140, it's sad but I don't know which 🎸 is more expensive. Probably a good test; bottom line is that all of them sound great in the hands of a master. I'll listen again on real speakers.. stupid phone.

    • @BanjoBen
      @BanjoBen  7 лет назад

      Thanks! Good speakers are better. I'm partial to the 140...and it's the cheapest!

  • @tuco8734
    @tuco8734 6 лет назад

    Hard to say which Blueridge is best . Thought I like BR-140A best but they all sounded a little different depending on whether you were picking or strumming. At end of comparison I liked 160 better .

  • @kelenDonovan
    @kelenDonovan 2 года назад

    Sound wise,and really a not as your there event,but computer speaker sound, I'd say the guitars are pretty much alike.You never played the 180,but I suppose the only difference would be the pikup on this one.Thanks,I'm gonna get me one of these Blueridge guitars,Worth the money.

  • @colinhorsfall1678
    @colinhorsfall1678 2 года назад

    I want a BR 40 TCE but cant find one

  • @tecnolover2642
    @tecnolover2642 6 лет назад

    Great review! Thanks!