Guild D55E 2021. Just bought it. Lighter, more reactive top with an incredibly wide range that sounds wonderful from finger style to hard strumming folk. Amazing power and projection, but also clarity and definition.
Right there with you! This guitar should be on any list for one of the best guitars on the market. I just bought a D55E 2023, burst top just an absolute stunner I will never get rid of this guitar. I feel it would hold its own to any guitar I don’t care the cost. So much projection on the base tones and the highs as well! I had to buy it!
Late to the party here, but I'll concur that a Larrivee is pretty much unbeatable in the price range. Maple binding, maple heel cap, maple neck binding even. Jean has spent his life properly sourcing tonewoods from around the globe, then building them structurally perfected. JR is continuing the family tradition. If you find one with the alpine spruce top, prepare to be astounded. It's like a violin top. Unreal. (I am in no way affiliated -- just a huge fan.)
Larrivee guitars are incredible. Another incredible guitar is the Tacoma dreadnoughts and they often sell for $500 and they have a great punchy, woody character.
I know this comment will drive some people batshit crazy, but here goes: I love Martin guitars, and I've owned several, including a 1968 D-28, which I sadly had to sell to pay grad school tuition back in the mid-70s, when it was merely a used guitar, and not a Brazilian rosewood collectible. I am the second, and current, owner of a 1874 D35 that I bought in 1982. Around 2008, I acquired a 1990 Yamaha LL35, from Yamaha's version of a "custom shop". While noticeably less loud than my Martin D35, her voice is also noticeably more articulate and discrete, the note tones don't step on each other. On top of that, I find her neck more comfortable and easy to play. The LL35 has replaced my D35 as my go-to practice guitar. The cherry on top is, since Yamaha isn't so well-known in America for high-end guitars, an LL35 can be often had for less than $1000.
When you get to premium sounding guitars, at some point it's just personal preference. Mine is the HD-35, with scalloped 1/4" bracing it's the lightest bracing in the Martin line. I picked up a used 2012 model for $2,100, and it's the best sounding, easiest playing guitar I own.
I'd love to have a D2H, but they're probably over $8000 here in Australia. The Boucher's are much cheaper to buy from Canada or the US, and they're astonishingly good.
Have you heard any of the Eastman guitars? I know they are Chinese but my d40 sounds pretty good of course I can’t compare it to the guitars your demonstrating
I am looking at ordering a Martin Custom shop with VTS. I may call around to see what Thompson or Huss & Dalton or Bourgeois may do. It would be a memorial for my wife, who recently passed. We had talked about it, and she said to order one for Christmas for myself, but have it come from her. I was hoping it wasn't so soon.
I bought a Huss and Dalton TOM with a baked red spruce top and sinker mahogany back and sides several years ago. When you strum a chord with it, you hear every note. An amazing guitar.
I had a Huss and Dalton TDR Cocobolo. Is the best acoustic I've ever owned and played, BUT, I could NOT get used the width of the neck and the V profile. I've tried many vintage style guitars and only can really handle a standard Martin 1 11/16 type neck. Sold a Collings for the same reason. Would definitely consider a vintage D28.
Nice to see a shout for Alvarez, which is what I play. A friend of mine did all the set-ups of the Yairis when they arrived in from Japan. about the same time-frame as yours.
Hmm 🤔 I don't know about Alvarez being anything special. But I only briefly played one and haven't seen or heard them much. So are they Japanese I take it from the previous comments. They do say that Japanese craftsman ship is really good, that I do know. I think I'd love to get my hands on one of those Japanese fake Gibson Acoustics or a fake Japanese Les Paul.
For some reason the Ytube guitar shows all forget about Guild. I managed to get a screaming deal on a New Hartford D50CE and I quit playing my 98 D-28. Later I found a 767/76-ish D25M, which I just traded for a Corona build D40 All the guilds are canons loud, balanced and responsive. The D50CE is darker, and the d$0 is light and bright. Even the import guilds are good( except the really inexpensive ones. The attention to detail, fit, finish and sound are topmntch.. ANd I sold the D28 with no regrets.
I been a Guild man forever when it comes to acoustics. I presently have a vintage D25. Bought it used. I really can't afford any of the guitars mentioned.
I have a Larrivee OM-03 that I bought new in 2002. What a beautiful wonderful guitar. Not a D size guitar but for my purpose its perfect. I don't play out, I just sit on my porch or in my living room so its more comfortable. I have played several other Larrivee's and they have all been great guitars. For the money they are dang hard to beat.
These are some great guitars. The only one I would consider buying is the Larrivee. Or, for about the same price as the Larrivee, or even less, I can get a Yamaha or Alvarez that sounds as good as anything you presented in this video.
I agree that Larrivee guitars are the hidden gem amongst high end guitars. All Larrivees are handmade from the best woods available. I have a 2004 D-05 which has mahogany back and sides and a spruce top. Sounds amazing. I recently bought a 2012 LV-03R which has Indian Rosewood back and sides and spruce top and is astounding. Sounds so balanced and truly amazing with bags of power and on close inspection the workmanship is second to none! If you haven't tried a Larrivee you really don't know what you are missing!
How about reviewing guitars that most average people can actually afford???? Almost no one, unless the are willing to save for a year or more, or take a loan out, cannot afford a 6000.00 dollar guitar. There are many other makers out there who are building some great sounding guitars in the 900 to 1500 range. In fact I own some of them, and they give my Gibson and Martin a run for their money....
Me: No, please don't tell everyone about Larrivees! Seriously though, I think they are arguably the best value brand. Very balanced sound that just sounds so nice. I say that as someone who owns and loves Martins. Lari's sit in that nice space where they don't have the broad name recognition of some of the other well known brands, so they have to just make a great guitar w/ a lot of features since they can't rely on the headstock to sell them to the masses. Fantastic brand.
Roger That Here's my comment to Jeremy about my "Larrivee" guitar. Jeremy: It's interesting you put a Larrivee on the list. I have a 1988 Heritage HFT-445 built by the guys who stayed at the Kalamazoo Gibson factory when Gibson moved to Nashville. They only built acoustic guitars for a very few years. The bodies of these guitars, I'm told, were made by Jean Larrivee and shipped to Heritage Guitars for the neck and finish. Mine sounds incredible and actually outplays my Martin D-42! It's got an awesome tobacco sunburst on it. HFT=Heritage Flat Top. It's sides and back are mahogany and the bass rumbles my chest. Great video, I agree on all five, but I'll still pick your '67 Martin D-28. LOL
@@angelg8445 I live in Atlanta and you just don't see Larrivees like you do other brands here. Don't think I've ever actually seen a new one, all preowned. I remember shopping for my first nice guitar and I had enough money to buy an entry ish Martin/Taylor etc, but not enough money to buy a, what I call a destination Martin (D-28s, 000s, etc.). The guy who owned the guitar shop I was shopping at said that if it were his money he'd choose either the Blueridge (I think) or Larrivee. I played the Blueridge and it was a fantastic guitar, but it didn't make me want to drop my dream of owning a name brand. I played the Larri and man, it was just such a beautiful guitar. It just felt so nice and sounded so great. It looked and felt like quality and at the time I think the price was around $1000. I was blown away. Unfortunately, I had my heart set on the name brand, so I reluctantly didn't get it. Long story short, that guitar haunted me for years and sparked my interest in that brand. I felt really silly to learn afterwards that Larrivee is definitely a name brand, it's just one of those, "If you know you know" type brands. My mistake! It's the brand I always recommend for people who have been playing a little bit and want to upgrade to a nice guitar that is just plain great value.
@@tinman8518 Ha, there is just something magical for me w/ Martins. It's a mental thing because as a kid I always told myself one day I'd own a Martin. That being said, if guitars were based purely on logic I'd probably choose the Larrivee. That's how fond I am of the brand. You compare a similarly priced Martin and a Larrivee taking away the headstock factor and I think most people are taking the Larrivee. It's that good of a brand factoring in value. That being said, guitars are not purely logical, so I'll keep my Martins hah :)
@Roger That I couldn't agree more!!!! I had a D-60 a few yrs back & I traded it off. I was sick for a long while afterward!!!! It had a neck as good as a Cruz & action as low as they come. It was a very well balanced guitar as well. I bought it new & it was setup great from the factory. I have a few vintage Martins but I still miss that Larrivee now & then!!!!
Then why are you even watching this video? Yes, there are a ton of fantastic guitars under $2k and many people will be happy with a guitar in this range for the rest of their lives. There are also people who recognize guitars in the range of his 67 Martin and some of the alternatives he's featuring are a significant step up for various reasons. Getting one of these will be their dream guitar and they'll also be content for the rest of their lives. Guess what, there are also 2-3 more tiers above the guitars in this video, so there are going to be some people watching this video who think the exact opposite of you. They're looking at the instruments in this video and thinking none of these are even remotely close to the quality or collectability of what they have or what they want... including the 67 Martin. These guitars aren't being sold in music stores, for the rare exception of a used guitar. Most of the guitars I'm talking about are custom made for an individual by boutique luthiers using extremely high end wood or higher valued vintage instruments (mostly pre-war). A majority of them sell in the $10-25k range but some climb up into 6 figures. What's the intent of your post? To "warn" less experienced players that as soon as they acquire a guitar comparable to a 2018 D-28 there's no need to consider anything better? To "educate" players who are more than likely fairly experienced and knowledgeable about the guitar market that it's foolish to shop in the $5k-$8K range because all they really need is a $2k guitar? Nobody should try and make someone feel inferior if they play a more modest guitar, and neither should anyone feel justified in alluding to someone being an elitist or guitar snob if they're fortunate enough to have something a bit higher end. That's great you've found a guitar that you think will keep you content for life, but the niche of buyers a video like this one are geared towards are on a different wave length than you.
@@kenschachsieck1357 Yep - I owned one years ago and sold it due to tight finances. Wish I could buy that same one back. Great sustain and overtones. I have a two year old HD28 which I love as well but the Santa Cruz is a superior build.
Jeremy: It's interesting you put a Larrivee on the list. I have a 1988 Heritage HFT-445 built by the guys who stayed at the Kalamazoo Gibson factory when Gibson moved to Nashville. They only built acoustic guitars for a very few years. The bodies of these guitars, I'm told, were made by Jean Larrivee and shipped to Heritage Guitars for the neck and finish. Mine sounds incredible and actually outplays my Martin D-42! It's got an awesome tobacco sunburst on it. HFT=Heritage Flat Top. It's sides and back are mahogany and the bass rumbles my chest. Great video, I agree on all five, but I'll still pick your '67 Martin D-28. LOL
Eastman E20D-TC. Handcrafted budget boutique with EIR b/s and a torrefied Adi top. I got one for $1300 and it sounds fuller than than my D-28. They are incredible guitars for the price. Nice video. I like hearing your old D-28!
I was expecting that Eastman in the review. I got one last year, and love it. The shop had a couple of them, and I guess I got lucky, it stood out.The lightest touch still gives endless sustain, almost piano like bell sound.
Some older Guilds ('70's USA made) can hold their own against some comparable Martins from the same era. I have a D-50 that is a solid contender. On a side note - one thing I have always had trouble with was the fear in owning a VERY expensive guitar and not wanting to see it get damaged (either by climate or carelessness). This means it typically always stays in the case, where-as my cheap beater that spends most of it's time out of the case on a stand gets a lot more playing time.
I have a L-15A Yamaha and it's got the power and the best tone I've ever heard, it was my choice I could have had a D-28 it was $950.00 in 1979 its still impressive, I've also played the LL-16 and it's awesome for $1,000 also have heard the recording-king it's a great guitar there's better deals than the Martin I've play some that sounded awful!!
LL 16 Is a great option Amazing value 3 years in No regrets My Martin 00028 EC on the other hand needs a binding refit!! Durability issue on the Martin No issue with the LL 16 Which is played every day ✌🏼
You really should've included the Bourgeois Aged Tone Vintage Deluxe D on this list! I have a 2019 one with torrefied Adirondack Banjo Killer bracing and it'll hang with any acoustic guitar I've ever played. I have a 2018 Reimagined D41 and it's nowhere close to the Bourgeois. I played the '37 D-28 AA at NAMM a couple of years ago and I'll say my Bourgeois will hang with it too but includes an adjustable truss rod and a neck that doesn't feel like a piece of firewood in your hand.
I agree with the reimagined series. I bought a 2018 D-41 that might be the finest sounding guitar I have ever played. When I went too look at it I was prepared to not like it due to the bling, but as soon as I played a few notes, I knew it was the one. Martin is now making instruments as good as any they have made with the reimagined series. They also look great too.
LL16 yamaha will kick the D-28's ass! You may have to get the frets leveled a bit but the sound is monsterous! 899.00! A couple hundred for a good setup and level..It kicks the 28's ass! Just pay Sweetwater to plek it.
You appear to believe that Martins rediculously priced guitars are the only choices. $5000+ price tags are stupidly expensive. I will stick with my Alvarez Yairi DY84C. I bought it used for a grand. Plays better than any Martin and has tone that touches your soul. There are many other brands as well. The "Martin Mystique" went out the window when other luthiers began building instruments than Martin. You mentioned one that offers affordable guitars. Larrivee makes fine guitars as does Taylor. I will say that when I bought my 800 series Taylors they weren't stupidly expensive. I don't play them much anymore. Both are up in the $5000 range now. Not bad for guitars I bought in the mid-1990's for about $3200 for both of them. I now gig with my Alvarez Yairi because it plays like a dream and has excellent tone. Some day I may sell my Taylors and my Martin D28 Herringbone but currently they are not for sale.
Jeremy Sheppard That's a sweet guitar, man. My dream guitar is a Guild ..USA M-25 "California Burst". I currently play a Chinese-made Guild OM-120, solid mahogany.....The build quality is top-notch, and it's sound blows my Martin 000-17 away. Nobody believes me until they play it. It's equal to my Martin in feel and playability
Anything from Bourgeois is 👌👌👌 primo. Of course you couldn’t list all the great brands. And they are pricey. But.... IMHO those are the best guitars being made today for the money. Honestly I wish I could own 1 of everything.
Separate comment on a guitar that is separating itself from the pack. Played a new TD-M Huss & Dalton at Artisan a while back. Couldn't believe what I was hearing or the stunning quality of the workmanship. It was the best guitar I've had in my hands. I am placing an order for a slightly custom TD-M this weekend. These are GREAT guitars! Also a shout out to the staff at Artisan Guitars. Just great folks to work with!
You left out the Martin D18 authentic Aged 1939 guitar It is mind blowing. You got to try that Mahogany guitar. I know you like Mahogany! Try it guitar hunter!!! Report on it.
I would buy one of those in a heartbeat, and that would be a top choice way above a rosewood guitar. For this video, I stuck to 28 styles. I'll do another video on mahogany guitars.
Pity the D-28 went to 1 3/4 " nut. After playing for 51 tears i got a good guitar with that nut width and gave it to my son. You gotta remember there's a lot of guys /gals out there used to the narrower nut/ fingerboard. I hate the move to 1 3/4 " I prefer 11/16" as that's what I've played for 50 years. but if the younger player grow up on that - Oh Well. Most classical guitars are 2" .
Huss and Daltons are amazing. I used to go to famous acoustic shop that had hundreds of high end guitars and I would play many of them often and the Huss and Daltons were often the best in the store.
Molly Tuttle used to always play Huss and Dalton. Then she got a Prewar guitar and played it mostly. Then she got a Preston Thompson, that's her go-to guitar now.
I have a seagull artist studio cw deluxe q2. It's spruce top rosewood back and sides maple neck and ebony fretboard and bridge all solid woods. Got it for less then 1000 bucks. A martin with these features would cost 5000 bucks+. Sounds great and feels great made in Canada. Nut width is 1.8 inch. love it and you cant beat that price.
I have a 1990's Guild D52NT. Basically Guilds "D28". While I wouldn't say that all Guilds are as good as mine, because they can be a bit inconsistent. I will say that the one that I have is better than every D28 I have ever played, new or vintage. I paid $1,100 for it 7 years ago. It is lush sounding, built with beautiful wood selections, and very well made. Martins are great, no doubt. But there are plenty of other brands that make as good or better, and many for a fraction of the price. Of course, these opinions are mine. The sound quality and feel of a guitar is a very personal thing.
I have a 2010 Larrivée D-09BZ. Just bought a used Recording King RDS-11-FE3 for dive bar jams and open mics. Larrivée guitars are very under appreciated. I bought my first one back in 2003. Larrivée seems to have quite the collection of tonewoods. One of best guitars I've ever played was a Huss & Dalton D-RH that a friend of mine used to own. Another one of those guitars that should never have been sold!
Agreed. I have three. Hard to find ANY guitar at any price that sounds better than the little Jane. And on a lark I recently bought an orangewood Oliver that completely destroys the myth about most handmade guitars. The sound is astonishing. But the two laminate back Furch I own are better than any Martin or Gibson I’ve ever played.
Jeremy - as usual, a great summary and I'm always amazed at how close our tastes in guitars is. Scares Me! Couple of notes that you may find of interest. Through saddles - I love'em and they are not as hard to work on as we think on Martins (can't speak to the other makers) - When Martin re-introduced these into various models such as the Authetic and Vintage series, they actually went to a "drop-in through saddle" design. No more trouble for a good luthier than any other drop-in saddle. They look great, sound great, and lift right out and another can be dropped right in. 2nd, still on through saddles - Collings Traditional Series are standard with through saddles, the regular D series is standard with regular length saddle. Long Saddle is an option on the standard D series for them. On a sadder note, I have also learned that Collings will be discontinuing their handmade cases. That will be a loss. Get one while you can!
To be honest, that D-28 of yours lights my soul on fire. WHAT A SOUND!! Just brilliant. It just got THAT magic in it which i absolutely love. Going to buy myself a baby like that one day :)
Jeremy, my name is jeremy. Nice to meet you. Could you provide further context to referral of D-28s and D-18s as “Dad” guitars? I dont think you do it in a negative connotation, but not sure.
I'm only talking about D28 from the late '80s through the early 2000s. I jokingly call them that because they just lost touch with what was cool and current. The finishes got boring, so did the logos, and the tuners got clunky.
I have a 67 D-28 that my dad bought new for $400. When I was 18 I bought new (97) Larrivee D-03 and I love it just as much. It's given me more songs and it's been everywhere. I'd probably get rid of the Martin before I would that Larrivee. (for an old 0-15 maybe)
I just scored a D-28 A37 (2015, first year w/VTS) for $4800 off Guitar Center's used section, so the deals are out there. It's an unparalleled instrument. Just incredible.
At a certain point, how good a given guitar is a matter of human opinion. Even by how a guitar sounds or especially by how a guitar sounds, how good it is, is really a matter human opinion.
Look my friend, my biggest dream for many years now is to own a good Martin D-28. To me that's the perfect sound for what I want to play. I don't have a Martin and even though I'm an old guy, I'm still very much a sucker for iconic brands and for the guitars that my heroes played, the guitars I saw in the hands of all these great artists on the posters on my bedroom walls when I was a kid and learned to play. And off course these were the guitars that we all grew up listening to, because they were on all the great albums of the sixties and seventies and (to a lesser extend) the eighties. I envisioned myself being on that stage and playing these instruments. I play the electric guitar and I have about 16 to 20 guitars, mostly Fenders and Gibsons, a handful of custom made guitars and a Gretsch. There are still electric guitars I'd love to have and guitars I'd kill for (as a matter of speech), but actually, I don't think I'll ever buy another electric unless strange things will happen that I can't forsee. I already have too much guitars. For 96% of the time I play one of the four best electrics I have. However, I'm a noob when it comes to acoustic guitars, but I love them. I can't think of anything else. I'm obsessed. I have four now. My first one was a Gibson J-45. Then I bought an Epiphone Dove Pro II, just to drag with me when I don't want to be careful with everything I do. My third acoustic was a freaking cheap Recording King something. I wanted to experiment with a small parlor sized guitar in Nashville tuning. Happy I did that. It spices up a recording and really, you don't need an expensive guitar to make it sound good. The last acoustic I bought was the then brand new Gibson G-45. I wanted a guitar that was good enough, but not too expensive, to tune down a major third permanently. Sounds amazing! But the quest had begun. I feel I need a Gibson J-200, but I definitely need a Martin D-28 (and a D-18 and a OOO-28 and the full mahony version and then some more, but I ABSOLUTELY MUST HAVE A D-28!!!), that is my dream. However, I've had another dream for at least 28 years now.... and that's to have a very good one of my favourite guitars, MADE IN 1967 (!!!) for no other reason than the simple fact that this is my year of birth. I once had the chance to buy an amazingly beautiful 1967 Fender Telecaster. It was the best sounding and lightest Telecaster I've ever played (and I've played a lot of Telecasters over the years, vintage and new). Unfortunately I couldn't afford it. Even though today you would pay at least 10 times the price they asked for it then. Vintage guitars was only just becoming a 'thing'. Anyway, to make an unnecessary long and boring story short, if I could pick any of those guitars you show in the video, I would without a doubt go for the 1967 Martin D-28. Absolutely! I don't even care if the others may sound a little better. The feeling it would give me to play an original '67 Martin D-28 just couldn't be beaten by any of the others. And that feeling is more important than the comfort of the guitar itself, or even the sound (by the way, your D-28 sound amazing and precisely the way I want a perfect acoustic guitar to sound). You're a lucky man, Jeremy! 😊
trying to compare a yamaha to a martin is like comparing shit to ice cream yamaha ok for the price put it against my d42 martin u will take it back to the store
@@bigmac51290 are u talking to yourself u missed the whole other conversation the other guy was stating he had owned all types of guitars and his Yamaha was good has a d 28 thats when the gentleman said he hated he found a d 28 so boring because he loved his so now not that it is any of your business but I have owned a yamaha fg 160 180 a 365 s and a 730 s and still have and a Martin d18 d28 d42 and like I said trying to compare a yamaha to a Martin is like comparing shit to ice cream
I have two Larrivee's...an SD-40R and an OM-03. I'm also picking up a D-03E soon. Amazing guitars. You should also throw in the Breedlove American D/SR...I have that one and it's probably my favorite.
You are rxactly right but stated it backwards. For a few thousands if dollars you might get lucky and find a Martin that sounds as good as a low priced used Yamaha. You will have a hard time finding a Martin at any price that compares to the Yamaha FG5 Red Label Dreads And the LL36 and up are in another level altogether.
I’ve heard some nice Yamaha guitars, but they were high end. But in no way compare to a vintage Martin or Gibson. I place Yamaha acoustic guitars in the same category as Fender acoustic.
I have a 1994 HD28. I play it very little because I have so many other "value" guitars that sound pretty good. But, every time I pull it out, I'm amazed how wonderful it sounds.
Video starts at 5:10 (he spends the first 5 minutes talking about how another year of the D-28 is potentially better). Guild D-55 smokes all those guitars.
I’d throw the Martin “Vintage” series in there too. I have a 2002 HD28V and I swear it’s on another level. It’s a pre million serial so it has wood from Martins old library of wood. Really special and I’m sure it would compare with this ‘67
There are many great guitar builders out there today building top quality guitars, but watch the videos of Molly playing the prewar Martin's at Carters & tell me you don't hear a little extra "sparkle & soul" in her playing. I love ALL guitars, but there's just something about a Martin that gets into your blood!!!!
I'd love to see you do an eastman sitka top tc demo. Have you played any Jeremy? I havent . I like what I see and hear on youtube but it's never true until you play one. I'm looking at buying one. I own a couple of d28s and have owned about 7 d28s plus an hd28 reimagined...d35 hd35 and the d18 2012...wasnt in love with the neck profile but the standard d28 reimagined was a killer sound and I shouldn't have gotten rid. Maybe if I come across another I'd buy one. I prefer the older low profile 1 11/16" nut but I'd prefer a 1 3/4" nut with a thicker low v profile and the string spacing to be just a tad tighter than the martin 1 3/4" string spacing. I cant justify a best up Brazilian d28 for the price...over here in the uk they cost for a 67 ...or whatbi have seen them go for is around 6k. Too much just to say its Brazilian Thanks Jeremy.
The Martin D18 Authentic 1937 - I bought one second hand and am totally happy with it. It cannot be compared to a EiR D28 at all, it is so much better dynamically and it loves a mic.It's the 5th '28 I've had in 40 years and it's a keeper - it is so good.
Your guitar sounds great; I would suggest that you get happy with it and play it anywhere you go. You could spend a lifetime trying to find something that sounds as good. Music is sound; not features, looks, technology etc....
I love my Martin DX1RAE and it sounds and plays great as does my Yamaha FG830. Not the quality of the D-28 but incredible sound and value for money. One day I will upgrade if my ship comes in.
@@imannonymous7707 Absolutely! I have a 1981 Martin D42 that someone knocked off its stand on stage and then he stepped on it. It cost me $500 to have it fixed and now I'm afraid to take it anywhere. Would love to have a Clapton or Mayer OM but same issue there. I have actually reconciled myself to finding $1000 guitars with great electronics that I use to play out with. Bought this thing called an Orangewood Ava with Torrified Spruce top and LR Baggs Anthem pickup and I'm surprisingly satisfied with it. It plays well, sounds good, and best of all if something happens to it I wont lose it like I did when my D42 went down.
I drive through Staunton all the time, one day I want to stop at Huss and Dalton! I'm kinda cursed tho I'm a lefty, so many amazing guitar out there that are not made left handed :(
From what I’ve experienced, I’d go with the Collings. That would be amazing to get one for around $3,500 like you mentioned for the used price. Thanks for the info. 👍
Definitely the Collings. Like Martins, they have their own unique sound, but unlike Martins, the quality hasn't gone downhill over the years. Collings are excellent top quality instruments.
I have a D40R and it's absolutely fantastic. Tonally it falls somewhere between a bassy Martin and a shiny taylor. It's important to note these Larrivees are part of their Legacy 40 series and have a different bracing pattern more similar to Martin's than the typical Larrivee bracing. It certainly is much more boomy than normal Larrivee's while still maintaining string to string clarity that Martin's sometime lack. It amazes me each time I pick it up and the top has slowly started to get that beautiful aged look.
I know Im randomly asking but does any of you know of a way to get back into an instagram account?? I was stupid lost the account password. I appreciate any tips you can give me!
@Mohamed Cristian I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site through google and I'm waiting for the hacking stuff atm. I see it takes a while so I will reply here later with my results.
I love my 2005 D41. Got it new for 3000$. But to be truthful my 97 hummingbird is still my favorite. To me it sounds every bit as good as my Martin. Just that the Martin is 4 times as loud. (No pickup on either) I had an 04 DM for a while and I felt like for the money I paid 600$, it was my Best Buy. Thanks for all you do
I just recently played my first larivee 0m03 mahogany about two years ago. Since then I sold 3 Martin's and 2 Taylor's and now own a Larivee 0m03,0m40r,omv-10 custom moon spruce and walnut back and sides. They seriously are the absolute best acoustics you can buy imo, sound for sound and feel for feel, fit and finishes around the 2000 and up mark. Used ones can be had at about 1k. GET ON TO LARIVEE!! They truly are amazing, the parlor series are absolutely amazing with moon spruce and walnut (my next purchase) lol His wife does some crazy custom inlays too. Best part is they sell all replacement parts stupid cheap tuners,bridges,pins nuts cases etc. And will also make any of their custom fret board and headstock to install on any of their guitars you own.
I enjoy your videos. I played a 1937 Martin at a Martin event. Instant love! Without a doubt, the best flat top I ever played. Second best was a Guild D-55. I’m a Martin guy, so the 1937 is my dream guitar.
Guild D55E 2021. Just bought it. Lighter, more reactive top with an incredibly wide range that sounds wonderful from finger style to hard strumming folk. Amazing power and projection, but also clarity and definition.
Right there with you! This guitar should be on any list for one of the best guitars on the market. I just bought a D55E 2023, burst top just an absolute stunner I will never get rid of this guitar. I feel it would hold its own to any guitar I don’t care the cost. So much projection on the base tones and the highs as well! I had to buy it!
Late to the party here, but I'll concur that a Larrivee is pretty much unbeatable in the price range. Maple binding, maple heel cap, maple neck binding even. Jean has spent his life properly sourcing tonewoods from around the globe, then building them structurally perfected. JR is continuing the family tradition. If you find one with the alpine spruce top, prepare to be astounded. It's like a violin top. Unreal. (I am in no way affiliated -- just a huge fan.)
Larrivee guitars are incredible. Another incredible guitar is the Tacoma dreadnoughts and they often sell for $500 and they have a great punchy, woody character.
Nothing from Santa Cruz? 1934 D?
Please...
I know this comment will drive some people batshit crazy, but here goes: I love Martin guitars, and I've owned several, including a 1968 D-28, which I sadly had to sell to pay grad school tuition back in the mid-70s, when it was merely a used guitar, and not a Brazilian rosewood collectible. I am the second, and current, owner of a 1874 D35 that I bought in 1982. Around 2008, I acquired a 1990 Yamaha LL35, from Yamaha's version of a "custom shop". While noticeably less loud than my Martin D35, her voice is also noticeably more articulate and discrete, the note tones don't step on each other. On top of that, I find her neck more comfortable and easy to play. The LL35 has replaced my D35 as my go-to practice guitar. The cherry on top is, since Yamaha isn't so well-known in America for high-end guitars, an LL35 can be often had for less than $1000.
When you get to premium sounding guitars, at some point it's just personal preference. Mine is the HD-35, with scalloped 1/4" bracing it's the lightest bracing in the Martin line. I picked up a used 2012 model for $2,100, and it's the best sounding, easiest playing guitar I own.
I'd love to have a D2H, but they're probably over $8000 here in Australia. The Boucher's are much cheaper to buy from Canada or the US, and they're astonishingly good.
Have you heard any of the Eastman guitars? I know they are Chinese but my d40 sounds pretty good of course I can’t compare it to the guitars your demonstrating
I would buy an Authentic if I had $$. I have a D28 modern deluxe. But I'm goin
I am looking at ordering a Martin Custom shop with VTS. I may call around to see what Thompson or Huss & Dalton or Bourgeois may do. It would be a memorial for my wife, who recently passed. We had talked about it, and she said to order one for Christmas for myself, but have it come from her. I was hoping it wasn't so soon.
Tex Haines Best of luck, that is very special.
Did you say "Phil Collins"?
I bought a Huss and Dalton TOM with a baked red spruce top and sinker mahogany back and sides several years ago. When you strum a chord with it, you hear every note. An amazing guitar.
I had a Huss and Dalton TDR Cocobolo. Is the best acoustic I've ever owned and played, BUT, I could NOT get used the width of the neck and the V profile. I've tried many vintage style guitars and only can really handle a standard Martin 1 11/16 type neck. Sold a Collings for the same reason. Would definitely consider a vintage D28.
@@robbiefest a Martin D18 Authentic 1939 will do it for you then. They made them from 2015 - 2021.
@@davidmcdermott3625 hard to compare a huss and Dalton to any factory made guitar
D28 2017 to present is amazing for the price💯
Alvarez the best I've played in 55 yrs. sold my 1967 martin when I got my first Alverez in 1971
Nice to see a shout for Alvarez, which is what I play. A friend of mine did all the set-ups of the Yairis when they arrived in from Japan. about the same time-frame as yours.
Ray Britt sweet. Very underrated guitars. I have a 1981 5036, signed by a Mr. Yamada in Japan. It's my second favorite!
My first acoustic guitar, Alvarez DY68 Yahri, 12 string. Amazing guitar. Still play it, bought in 1976.
Alvarez can't be beat for the money
Hmm 🤔 I don't know about Alvarez being anything special. But I only briefly played one and haven't seen or heard them much. So are they Japanese I take it from the previous comments. They do say that Japanese craftsman ship is really good, that I do know. I think I'd love to get my hands on one of those Japanese fake Gibson Acoustics or a fake Japanese Les Paul.
For some reason the Ytube guitar shows all forget about Guild. I managed to get a screaming deal on a New Hartford D50CE and I quit playing my 98 D-28. Later I found a 767/76-ish D25M, which I just traded for a Corona build D40 All the guilds are canons loud, balanced and responsive. The D50CE is darker, and the d$0 is light and bright. Even the import guilds are good( except the really inexpensive ones. The attention to detail, fit, finish and sound are topmntch..
ANd I sold the D28 with no regrets.
I been a Guild man forever when it comes to acoustics. I presently have a vintage D25. Bought it used. I really can't afford any of the guitars mentioned.
I have a '72 Guild G-312 It is an amazing 12 string.
Jeremy... How about demoing an Eastman guitar or two.. one with rosewood and one mahogany.
I have a Martin Custom Shop D28 w/VTS top. It’s jaw hopping amazing. Completely in love with that guitar.
I have a Larrivee OM-03 that I bought new in 2002. What a beautiful wonderful guitar. Not a D size guitar but for my purpose its perfect. I don't play out, I just sit on my porch or in my living room so its more comfortable. I have played several other Larrivee's and they have all been great guitars.
For the money they are dang hard to beat.
100% - Larrivee is nigh on unbeatable
These are some great guitars. The only one I would consider buying is the Larrivee. Or, for about the same price as the Larrivee, or even less, I can get a Yamaha or Alvarez that sounds as good as anything you presented in this video.
I agree that Larrivee guitars are the hidden gem amongst high end guitars. All Larrivees are handmade from the best woods available. I have a 2004 D-05 which has mahogany back and sides and a spruce top. Sounds amazing. I recently bought a 2012 LV-03R which has Indian Rosewood back and sides and spruce top and is astounding. Sounds so balanced and truly amazing with bags of power and on close inspection the workmanship is second to none! If you haven't tried a Larrivee you really don't know what you are missing!
Absolutely true on all counts I have 5 (and counting) another have a J-03 that is amazing....
How about reviewing guitars that most average people can actually afford???? Almost no one, unless the are willing to save for a year or more, or take a loan out, cannot afford a 6000.00 dollar guitar. There are many other makers out there who are building some great sounding guitars in the 900 to 1500 range. In fact I own some of them, and they give my Gibson and Martin a run for their money....
Me: No, please don't tell everyone about Larrivees!
Seriously though, I think they are arguably the best value brand. Very balanced sound that just sounds so nice. I say that as someone who owns and loves Martins. Lari's sit in that nice space where they don't have the broad name recognition of some of the other well known brands, so they have to just make a great guitar w/ a lot of features since they can't rely on the headstock to sell them to the masses. Fantastic brand.
I have a P-09, and had a L-03, they are well made beautiful pieces of art. They play wonderfully too!
Roger That Here's my comment to Jeremy about my "Larrivee" guitar.
Jeremy: It's interesting you put a Larrivee on the list. I have a 1988 Heritage HFT-445 built by the guys who stayed at the Kalamazoo Gibson factory when Gibson moved to Nashville. They only built acoustic guitars for a very few years. The bodies of these guitars, I'm told, were made by Jean Larrivee and shipped to Heritage Guitars for the neck and finish. Mine sounds incredible and actually outplays my Martin D-42! It's got an awesome tobacco sunburst on it. HFT=Heritage Flat Top. It's sides and back are mahogany and the bass rumbles my chest. Great video, I agree on all five, but I'll still pick your '67 Martin D-28. LOL
@@angelg8445 I live in Atlanta and you just don't see Larrivees like you do other brands here. Don't think I've ever actually seen a new one, all preowned. I remember shopping for my first nice guitar and I had enough money to buy an entry ish Martin/Taylor etc, but not enough money to buy a, what I call a destination Martin (D-28s, 000s, etc.). The guy who owned the guitar shop I was shopping at said that if it were his money he'd choose either the Blueridge (I think) or Larrivee.
I played the Blueridge and it was a fantastic guitar, but it didn't make me want to drop my dream of owning a name brand. I played the Larri and man, it was just such a beautiful guitar. It just felt so nice and sounded so great. It looked and felt like quality and at the time I think the price was around $1000. I was blown away. Unfortunately, I had my heart set on the name brand, so I reluctantly didn't get it. Long story short, that guitar haunted me for years and sparked my interest in that brand. I felt really silly to learn afterwards that Larrivee is definitely a name brand, it's just one of those, "If you know you know" type brands. My mistake! It's the brand I always recommend for people who have been playing a little bit and want to upgrade to a nice guitar that is just plain great value.
@@tinman8518 Ha, there is just something magical for me w/ Martins. It's a mental thing because as a kid I always told myself one day I'd own a Martin. That being said, if guitars were based purely on logic I'd probably choose the Larrivee. That's how fond I am of the brand. You compare a similarly priced Martin and a Larrivee taking away the headstock factor and I think most people are taking the Larrivee. It's that good of a brand factoring in value. That being said, guitars are not purely logical, so I'll keep my Martins hah :)
@Roger That I couldn't agree more!!!! I had a D-60 a few yrs back & I traded it off. I was sick for a long while afterward!!!! It had a neck as good as a Cruz & action as low as they come. It was a very well balanced guitar as well. I bought it new & it was setup great from the factory. I have a few vintage Martins but I still miss that Larrivee now & then!!!!
I have an '18 D-28, it sounds beautiful. It's a lifetime guitar. I'm sure the $6000 - $8000 guitars sound even better, but I don't care.
Then why are you even watching this video? Yes, there are a ton of fantastic guitars under $2k and many people will be happy with a guitar in this range for the rest of their lives. There are also people who recognize guitars in the range of his 67 Martin and some of the alternatives he's featuring are a significant step up for various reasons. Getting one of these will be their dream guitar and they'll also be content for the rest of their lives. Guess what, there are also 2-3 more tiers above the guitars in this video, so there are going to be some people watching this video who think the exact opposite of you. They're looking at the instruments in this video and thinking none of these are even remotely close to the quality or collectability of what they have or what they want... including the 67 Martin. These guitars aren't being sold in music stores, for the rare exception of a used guitar. Most of the guitars I'm talking about are custom made for an individual by boutique luthiers using extremely high end wood or higher valued vintage instruments (mostly pre-war). A majority of them sell in the $10-25k range but some climb up into 6 figures.
What's the intent of your post? To "warn" less experienced players that as soon as they acquire a guitar comparable to a 2018 D-28 there's no need to consider anything better? To "educate" players who are more than likely fairly experienced and knowledgeable about the guitar market that it's foolish to shop in the $5k-$8K range because all they really need is a $2k guitar? Nobody should try and make someone feel inferior if they play a more modest guitar, and neither should anyone feel justified in alluding to someone being an elitist or guitar snob if they're fortunate enough to have something a bit higher end. That's great you've found a guitar that you think will keep you content for life, but the niche of buyers a video like this one are geared towards are on a different wave length than you.
@@matthewmcclure3181 on your period Matthew? It's just a RUclips comment you don't have to write a whole book.
Santa Cruz D/PW is a great guitar as well.
Got one, and really light build, mine is very resonant, sustains for days!!
@@kenschachsieck1357 Yep - I owned one years ago and sold it due to tight finances. Wish I could buy that same one back. Great sustain and overtones. I have a two year old HD28 which I love as well but the Santa Cruz is a superior build.
Jeremy: It's interesting you put a Larrivee on the list. I have a 1988 Heritage HFT-445 built by the guys who stayed at the Kalamazoo Gibson factory when Gibson moved to Nashville. They only built acoustic guitars for a very few years. The bodies of these guitars, I'm told, were made by Jean Larrivee and shipped to Heritage Guitars for the neck and finish. Mine sounds incredible and actually outplays my Martin D-42! It's got an awesome tobacco sunburst on it. HFT=Heritage Flat Top. It's sides and back are mahogany and the bass rumbles my chest. Great video, I agree on all five, but I'll still pick your '67 Martin D-28. LOL
Eastman E20D-TC. Handcrafted budget boutique with EIR b/s and a torrefied Adi top. I got one for $1300 and it sounds fuller than than my D-28. They are incredible guitars for the price. Nice video. I like hearing your old D-28!
I have the E2CD and it is phenomenal.
I was expecting that Eastman in the review. I got one last year, and love it. The shop had a couple of them, and I guess I got lucky, it stood out.The lightest touch still gives endless sustain, almost piano like bell sound.
Yamaha Red Label FG5 2019-2020
Yamaha makes great guitars for the money.
lol
Every 'Astounding' = 1 Tequila Shot
I’m sooooosoooo dwunke
sheramb arrb nnn....
Some older Guilds ('70's USA made) can hold their own against some comparable Martins from the same era. I have a D-50 that is a solid contender. On a side note - one thing I have always had trouble with was the fear in owning a VERY expensive guitar and not wanting to see it get damaged (either by climate or carelessness). This means it typically always stays in the case, where-as my cheap beater that spends most of it's time out of the case on a stand gets a lot more playing time.
New American Guilds hold their own with Martins all day
I agree with Jeff on the Guild D50. That was my work cannon, and never let me down. Got that guitar in 1975. They were still being made in RI.
It is Guild no big secret
As a 2018 D28 owner I can't agree more. Such a awesome guitar!
I have a L-15A Yamaha and it's got the power and the best tone I've ever heard, it was my choice I could have had a D-28 it was $950.00 in 1979 its still impressive, I've also played the LL-16 and it's awesome for $1,000 also have heard the recording-king it's a great guitar there's better deals than the Martin I've play some that sounded awful!!
LL 16 Is a great option
Amazing value
3 years in
No regrets
My Martin 00028 EC on the other hand needs a binding refit!!
Durability issue on the Martin
No issue with the LL 16
Which is played every day ✌🏼
Next video: “why I hate my 67 Martin D-28”
I'd watch it.
You really should've included the Bourgeois Aged Tone Vintage Deluxe D on this list! I have a 2019 one with torrefied Adirondack Banjo Killer bracing and it'll hang with any acoustic guitar I've ever played. I have a 2018 Reimagined D41 and it's nowhere close to the Bourgeois. I played the '37 D-28 AA at NAMM a couple of years ago and I'll say my Bourgeois will hang with it too but includes an adjustable truss rod and a neck that doesn't feel like a piece of firewood in your hand.
I certainly should have!
Sounds like you've never handled firewood and lit a campfire then.
I’m in love with my Martin D41 2018 (5000$) .... sound and looks like a dream . Vintage guitars are over rated .......
I agree with the reimagined series. I bought a 2018 D-41 that might be the finest sounding guitar I have ever played. When I went too look at it I was prepared to not like it due to the bling, but as soon as I played a few notes, I knew it was the one. Martin is now making instruments as good as any they have made with the reimagined series. They also look great too.
Same situation here….I cannot stand the bindings on the reimagined D41 so I finally decided to order an 2022 version 1937 authentic D28.
LL16 yamaha will kick the D-28's ass! You may have to get the frets leveled a bit but the sound is monsterous! 899.00! A couple hundred for a good setup and level..It kicks the 28's ass! Just pay Sweetwater to plek it.
You appear to believe that Martins rediculously priced guitars are the only choices. $5000+ price tags are stupidly expensive. I will stick with my Alvarez Yairi DY84C. I bought it used for a grand. Plays better than any Martin and has tone that touches your soul. There are many other brands as well. The "Martin Mystique" went out the window when other luthiers began building instruments than Martin. You mentioned one that offers affordable guitars. Larrivee makes fine guitars as does Taylor. I will say that when I bought my 800 series Taylors they weren't stupidly expensive. I don't play them much anymore. Both are up in the $5000 range now. Not bad for guitars I bought in the mid-1990's for about $3200 for both of them. I now gig with my Alvarez Yairi because it plays like a dream and has excellent tone. Some day I may sell my Taylors and my Martin D28 Herringbone but currently they are not for sale.
I would go for the Thompson, as I have Martins & Santa Cruz guitars. That said, there are no slouches in these 6.
Ever play any of (new) California Guilds ?
If not, you're missing out.
I have an M-20E and it's wonderful! ruclips.net/video/SucDzdbHgKo/видео.html
Jeremy Sheppard That's a sweet guitar, man. My dream guitar is a Guild ..USA M-25 "California Burst". I currently play a Chinese-made Guild OM-120, solid mahogany.....The build quality is top-notch, and it's sound blows my Martin 000-17 away. Nobody believes me until they play it. It's equal to my Martin in feel and playability
Anything from Bourgeois is 👌👌👌 primo. Of course you couldn’t list all the great brands. And they are pricey. But....
IMHO those are the best guitars being made today for the money. Honestly I wish I could own 1 of everything.
I agree Chris. I love my Country Boy. It is one sweet sounding guitar. I play it more than my HD-28.
Separate comment on a guitar that is separating itself from the pack. Played a new TD-M Huss & Dalton at Artisan a while back. Couldn't believe what I was hearing or the stunning quality of the workmanship. It was the best guitar I've had in my hands. I am placing an order for a slightly custom TD-M this weekend. These are GREAT guitars!
Also a shout out to the staff at Artisan Guitars. Just great folks to work with!
Collings D2N
Sure can’t argue that. I have both an older D2H & a 2017 D1M. Love’em both. The TD-M was very strong on punch and nicely balanced. Great piece by H&D
You left out the Martin D18 authentic Aged 1939 guitar It is mind blowing. You got to try that Mahogany guitar. I know you like Mahogany! Try it guitar hunter!!! Report on it.
I would buy one of those in a heartbeat, and that would be a top choice way above a rosewood guitar. For this video, I stuck to 28 styles. I'll do another video on mahogany guitars.
The Martin D-28 Reimagined is hard to beat for the price. An excellent workhorse guitar to take just about anywhere.
In addition to sounding great, your '67 has soul, vibe and mojo that those other guitars don't.
Pity the D-28 went to 1 3/4 " nut. After playing for 51 tears i got a good guitar with that nut width and gave it to my son.
You gotta remember there's a lot of guys /gals out there used to the narrower nut/ fingerboard. I hate the move to 1 3/4 "
I prefer 11/16" as that's what I've played for 50 years.
but if the younger player grow up on that - Oh Well. Most classical guitars are 2" .
Always wanted a real D-28 and so glad I watched this video. Now I still want a real D-28 and I think the new ones are the go. Thanks Jeremy!
Pre 2017 d-28 with “rosewood fingerboard and bridge”? Wouldn’t that be a -21? Listen at 12:08
I recently bought a Martin D28 Modern Deluxe. One of the best sounding and easiest playing guitars I’ve owned or had the privilege to play
1" 3/4 was the standard until around 1939 (there were transition guitars, of course), and is the "standard" again with the reimagined standard series
Huss and Daltons are amazing. I used to go to famous acoustic shop that had hundreds of high end guitars and I would play many of them often and the Huss and Daltons were often the best in the store.
Few months back I purchased a H&D JAS and put 5 high end Martins back in their cases. Hands down the best guitar I own.
Molly Tuttle used to always play Huss and Dalton. Then she got a Prewar guitar and played it mostly. Then she got a Preston Thompson, that's her go-to guitar now.
I have a seagull artist studio cw deluxe q2.
It's spruce top rosewood back and sides maple neck and ebony fretboard and bridge all solid woods. Got it for less then 1000 bucks. A martin with these features would cost 5000 bucks+.
Sounds great and feels great made in Canada. Nut width is 1.8 inch. love it and you cant beat that price.
I have a 1990's Guild D52NT. Basically Guilds "D28". While I wouldn't say that all Guilds are as good as mine, because they can be a bit inconsistent. I will say that the one that I have is better than every D28 I have ever played, new or vintage. I paid $1,100 for it 7 years ago. It is lush sounding, built with beautiful wood selections, and very well made. Martins are great, no doubt. But there are plenty of other brands that make as good or better, and many for a fraction of the price. Of course, these opinions are mine. The sound quality and feel of a guitar is a very personal thing.
Every guild i've ever picked up I was blown away by
I have a 2010 Larrivée D-09BZ. Just bought a used Recording King RDS-11-FE3 for dive bar jams and open mics. Larrivée guitars are very under appreciated. I bought my first one back in 2003. Larrivée seems to have quite the collection of tonewoods.
One of best guitars I've ever played was a Huss & Dalton D-RH that a friend of mine used to own. Another one of those guitars that should never have been sold!
Furch makes top guitars....
Agreed. I have three. Hard to find ANY guitar at any price that sounds better than the little Jane. And on a lark I recently bought an orangewood Oliver that completely destroys the myth about most handmade guitars. The sound is astonishing. But the two laminate back Furch I own are better than any Martin or Gibson I’ve ever played.
How and what you play is vastly more important than the guitar you’re playing.
Jeremy - as usual, a great summary and I'm always amazed at how close our tastes in guitars is. Scares Me!
Couple of notes that you may find of interest. Through saddles - I love'em and they are not as hard to work on as we think on Martins (can't speak to the other makers) - When Martin re-introduced these into various models such as the Authetic and Vintage series, they actually went to a "drop-in through saddle" design. No more trouble for a good luthier than any other drop-in saddle. They look great, sound great, and lift right out and another can be dropped right in. 2nd, still on through saddles - Collings Traditional Series are standard with through saddles, the regular D series is standard with regular length saddle. Long Saddle is an option on the standard D series for them.
On a sadder note, I have also learned that Collings will be discontinuing their handmade cases. That will be a loss. Get one while you can!
To be honest, that D-28 of yours lights my soul on fire. WHAT A SOUND!! Just brilliant. It just got THAT magic in it which i absolutely love. Going to buy myself a baby like that one day :)
Jeremy, my name is jeremy. Nice to meet you. Could you provide further context to referral of D-28s and D-18s as “Dad” guitars? I dont think you do it in a negative connotation, but not sure.
I'm only talking about D28 from the late '80s through the early 2000s.
I jokingly call them that because they just lost touch with what was cool and current. The finishes got boring, so did the logos, and the tuners got clunky.
I heard that Tyler Childers in the beginning. Good Stuff!
That 67 sounds like my cousins Estában guitar.😂
Vintage sparkles on a guitar makes it sound better.
I have a 67 D-28 that my dad bought new for $400. When I was 18 I bought new (97) Larrivee D-03 and I love it just as much. It's given me more songs and it's been everywhere. I'd probably get rid of the Martin before I would that Larrivee. (for an old 0-15 maybe)
For the price, new D28. For the wish, Thompson...or Goodall
I just played the 1937 Authentic a few days ago. Absolutely the best new Martin I’ve ever played. A killer guitar.
Let's both get one!
Jeremy Sheppard I wish. It was $6,999. But I have a really good 1977 D-28 that sounds great.
I just scored a D-28 A37 (2015, first year w/VTS) for $4800 off Guitar Center's used section, so the deals are out there. It's an unparalleled instrument. Just incredible.
At a certain point, how good a given guitar is a matter of human opinion. Even by how a guitar sounds or especially by how a guitar sounds, how good it is, is really a matter human opinion.
Dude starts with an $8500 alternative, I'm like, whoops, wrong video lol....
I'm comparing it to an $8k Martin so 🍎 to 🍏.
Plenty to say, but let’s hear them.
Look my friend, my biggest dream for many years now is to own a good Martin D-28. To me that's the perfect sound for what I want to play. I don't have a Martin and even though I'm an old guy, I'm still very much a sucker for iconic brands and for the guitars that my heroes played, the guitars I saw in the hands of all these great artists on the posters on my bedroom walls when I was a kid and learned to play. And off course these were the guitars that we all grew up listening to, because they were on all the great albums of the sixties and seventies and (to a lesser extend) the eighties. I envisioned myself being on that stage and playing these instruments. I play the electric guitar and I have about 16 to 20 guitars, mostly Fenders and Gibsons, a handful of custom made guitars and a Gretsch. There are still electric guitars I'd love to have and guitars I'd kill for (as a matter of speech), but actually, I don't think I'll ever buy another electric unless strange things will happen that I can't forsee. I already have too much guitars. For 96% of the time I play one of the four best electrics I have.
However, I'm a noob when it comes to acoustic guitars, but I love them. I can't think of anything else. I'm obsessed. I have four now. My first one was a Gibson J-45. Then I bought an Epiphone Dove Pro II, just to drag with me when I don't want to be careful with everything I do. My third acoustic was a freaking cheap Recording King something. I wanted to experiment with a small parlor sized guitar in Nashville tuning. Happy I did that. It spices up a recording and really, you don't need an expensive guitar to make it sound good. The last acoustic I bought was the then brand new Gibson G-45. I wanted a guitar that was good enough, but not too expensive, to tune down a major third permanently. Sounds amazing!
But the quest had begun. I feel I need a Gibson J-200, but I definitely need a Martin D-28 (and a D-18 and a OOO-28 and the full mahony version and then some more, but I ABSOLUTELY MUST HAVE A D-28!!!), that is my dream.
However, I've had another dream for at least 28 years now.... and that's to have a very good one of my favourite guitars, MADE IN 1967 (!!!) for no other reason than the simple fact that this is my year of birth. I once had the chance to buy an amazingly beautiful 1967 Fender Telecaster. It was the best sounding and lightest Telecaster I've ever played (and I've played a lot of Telecasters over the years, vintage and new). Unfortunately I couldn't afford it. Even though today you would pay at least 10 times the price they asked for it then. Vintage guitars was only just becoming a 'thing'.
Anyway, to make an unnecessary long and boring story short, if I could pick any of those guitars you show in the video, I would without a doubt go for the 1967 Martin D-28. Absolutely! I don't even care if the others may sound a little better. The feeling it would give me to play an original '67 Martin D-28 just couldn't be beaten by any of the others. And that feeling is more important than the comfort of the guitar itself, or even the sound (by the way, your D-28 sound amazing and precisely the way I want a perfect acoustic guitar to sound).
You're a lucky man, Jeremy! 😊
I fell the same way an iconic guitar
Well, I own and love playing my 2015 D-28. It plays fantastic and I hate that you find them so boring, but i still love mine.
trying to compare a yamaha to a martin is like comparing shit to ice cream yamaha ok for the price put it against my d42 martin u will take it back to the store
@@tgh223 This man didn't even say anything about Yamaha.
@@bigmac51290 i didnt say he did i was agreeing with him about playing martins i own 2 a d 28 and d 42 i love them both pay attention
@@tgh223 You were trash talking Yamaha when Yamaha had nothing to do with anything.
@@bigmac51290 are u talking to yourself u missed the whole other conversation the other guy was stating he had owned all types of guitars and his Yamaha was good has a d 28 thats when the gentleman said he hated he found a d 28 so boring because he loved his so now not that it is any of your business but I have owned a yamaha fg 160 180 a 365 s and a 730 s and still have and a Martin d18 d28 d42 and like I said trying to compare a yamaha to a Martin is like comparing shit to ice cream
I have two Larrivee's...an SD-40R and an OM-03. I'm also picking up a D-03E soon. Amazing guitars. You should also throw in the Breedlove American D/SR...I have that one and it's probably my favorite.
Boucher!! ‘Nuff said!!
Why does everyone leave out Blueridge?! They are awesome! Blueridge BR 160 both the Beauty and the Beast!
I love blue ridge but they don't offer anything in the obscene price range, these were all around $6500
That Martin sounds awesome. I’ve heard so many good things about the Boucher guitars.
If you can find a good vintage Yamaha guitar it will sound just as good as any Martin guitar for just a few hundred dollars..and that’s a fact..
I disagree. Yamaha's sound wonderful and lots of other guitars do but they aren't competitors.
You are rxactly right but stated it backwards.
For a few thousands if dollars you might get lucky and find a Martin that sounds as good as a low priced used Yamaha.
You will have a hard time finding a Martin at any price that compares to the Yamaha FG5 Red Label Dreads
And the LL36 and up are in another level altogether.
I’ve heard some nice Yamaha guitars, but they were high end. But in no way compare to a vintage Martin or Gibson. I place Yamaha acoustic guitars in the same category as Fender acoustic.
Harold Yeager where did I say they were better than a vintage Martin or Gibson..
I have a 1994 HD28. I play it very little because I have so many other "value" guitars that sound pretty good. But, every time I pull it out, I'm amazed how wonderful it sounds.
Play the Martin. Use the good silverware. Dance in the rain ... yada, yada, yada
I would buy the 1947 Martin D-28 NOT the new replica. Also I'D have great time enjoying a holiday in the USA. That's what we do here in Oz.
Video starts at 5:10 (he spends the first 5 minutes talking about how another year of the D-28 is potentially better).
Guild D-55 smokes all those guitars.
I’d throw the Martin “Vintage” series in there too. I have a 2002 HD28V and I swear it’s on another level. It’s a pre million serial so it has wood from Martins old library of wood. Really special and I’m sure it would compare with this ‘67
Martin D18 2012 onwards is still the best acoustic out there in my humble opinion
Jeremy, I believe Molly Tuttle also plays a Thompson..
She does! She also has a Huss and Dalton.
There are many great guitar builders out there today building top quality guitars, but watch the videos of Molly playing the prewar Martin's at Carters & tell me you don't hear a little extra "sparkle & soul" in her playing.
I love ALL guitars, but there's just something about a Martin that gets into your blood!!!!
Billy Strings plays Thompson as well if you haven't checked out his playing.
The authentic are super great played one at guitar center it was amazing
I'd love to see you do an eastman sitka top tc demo. Have you played any Jeremy? I havent . I like what I see and hear on youtube but it's never true until you play one. I'm looking at buying one. I own a couple of d28s and have owned about 7 d28s plus an hd28 reimagined...d35 hd35 and the d18 2012...wasnt in love with the neck profile but the standard d28 reimagined was a killer sound and I shouldn't have gotten rid. Maybe if I come across another I'd buy one. I prefer the older low profile 1 11/16" nut but I'd prefer a 1 3/4" nut with a thicker low v profile and the string spacing to be just a tad tighter than the martin 1 3/4" string spacing. I cant justify a best up Brazilian d28 for the price...over here in the uk they cost for a 67 ...or whatbi have seen them go for is around 6k. Too much just to say its Brazilian
Thanks Jeremy.
Jeremy, lots of talking, but we never actually hear these guitars???
This was during 2020 when we were all stuck at home.
I enjoyed your comparison but not as much as your playing which was absolutely beautiful !!! The feeling in your playing is amazing !!!
Martin Hd28’s also sound amazing and play great!
The Martin D18 Authentic 1937 - I bought one second hand and am totally happy with it. It cannot be compared to a EiR D28 at all, it is so much better dynamically and it loves a mic.It's the 5th '28 I've had in 40 years and it's a keeper - it is so good.
I play a Larrivee LV-03 and LV-09 live and in the studio. Just amazing guitars.
So so good! I had an OM-09 that I regret selling.
@@JeremySheppard The LV-03 is my #1. Mahogany sides and back with an LR Baggs Element system
What a thing! I'm sure.
Thanks for posting the vid!
Huss and Dalton, Crazy good!!!!!!
I prefer inch and 3/4 myself very comfortable
Your guitar sounds great; I would suggest that you get happy with it and play it anywhere you go. You could spend a lifetime trying to find something that sounds as good. Music is sound; not features, looks, technology etc....
I love my Martin DX1RAE and it sounds and plays great as does my Yamaha FG830. Not the quality of the D-28 but incredible sound and value for money. One day I will upgrade if my ship comes in.
Larry Harris I bought a Yamaha FG830 a few months ago, and love it. Happy playing! When I win the lottery . . .
Ya its got its ups and downs , owning an investment grade insturment i mean . The prices never used to be so crazy, kinda sad
@@imannonymous7707 Absolutely! I have a 1981 Martin D42 that someone knocked off its stand on stage and then he stepped on it. It cost me $500 to have it fixed and now I'm afraid to take it anywhere. Would love to have a Clapton or Mayer OM but same issue there. I have actually reconciled myself to finding $1000 guitars with great electronics that I use to play out with. Bought this thing called an Orangewood Ava with Torrified Spruce top and LR Baggs Anthem pickup and I'm surprisingly satisfied with it. It plays well, sounds good, and best of all if something happens to it I wont lose it like I did when my D42 went down.
Martin D-28V !!!!
hey Jeremy, wondering if you have any experience with or thoughts on the newer Guild d-55s. I'm looking at picking one up used if I can find one
I drive through Staunton all the time, one day I want to stop at Huss and Dalton! I'm kinda cursed tho I'm a lefty, so many amazing guitar out there that are not made left handed :(
From what I’ve experienced, I’d go with the Collings. That would be amazing to get one for around $3,500 like you mentioned for the used price. Thanks for the info. 👍
Definitely the Collings. Like Martins, they have their own unique sound, but unlike Martins, the quality hasn't gone downhill over the years. Collings are excellent top quality instruments.
I bought a D2H Adirondack Torrified a few weeks ago, shopped around, I think here in 2021, these or well over $4K used, more like $4500 +
I have a D40R and it's absolutely fantastic. Tonally it falls somewhere between a bassy Martin and a shiny taylor. It's important to note these Larrivees are part of their Legacy 40 series and have a different bracing pattern more similar to Martin's than the typical Larrivee bracing. It certainly is much more boomy than normal Larrivee's while still maintaining string to string clarity that Martin's sometime lack. It amazes me each time I pick it up and the top has slowly started to get that beautiful aged look.
I know Im randomly asking but does any of you know of a way to get back into an instagram account??
I was stupid lost the account password. I appreciate any tips you can give me!
@Morgan Adriel Instablaster =)
@Mohamed Cristian I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site through google and I'm waiting for the hacking stuff atm.
I see it takes a while so I will reply here later with my results.
@Mohamed Cristian It did the trick and I finally got access to my account again. I'm so happy:D
Thank you so much you really help me out !
@Morgan Adriel you are welcome :D
I love my 2005 D41. Got it new for 3000$. But to be truthful my 97 hummingbird is still my favorite. To me it sounds every bit as good as my Martin. Just that the Martin is 4 times as loud. (No pickup on either) I had an 04 DM for a while and I felt like for the money I paid 600$, it was my Best Buy. Thanks for all you do
I also have a ‘37 Gibson L00. Sounds like crap 😂 but it’s a cool piece!
Haha. That's true.
I just recently played my first larivee 0m03 mahogany about two years ago. Since then I sold 3 Martin's and 2 Taylor's and now own a Larivee 0m03,0m40r,omv-10 custom moon spruce and walnut back and sides. They seriously are the absolute best acoustics you can buy imo, sound for sound and feel for feel, fit and finishes around the 2000 and up mark. Used ones can be had at about 1k. GET ON TO LARIVEE!! They truly are amazing, the parlor series are absolutely amazing with moon spruce and walnut (my next purchase) lol His wife does some crazy custom inlays too. Best part is they sell all replacement parts stupid cheap tuners,bridges,pins nuts cases etc. And will also make any of their custom fret board and headstock to install on any of their guitars you own.
You forgot about the quality of larivee. I've owned 2 and the build quality is amazing
I enjoy your videos. I played a 1937 Martin at a Martin event. Instant love! Without a doubt, the best flat top I ever played. Second best was a Guild D-55. I’m a Martin guy, so the 1937 is my dream guitar.
You have excellent taste in guitars Jeremy! Martin’s are great guitars. I own two. However, i also own two Master Grade Boucher’s which are superior.
I'd buy a Martin just for the smell !
why not tell about awesome guitars...in a 500 then 1000 dollar area...something we might be able to afford
You're so right
How much do jou get for this from martin....
So disappointed. I thought you were going to A/B them.
I wish! He would be about $30,000 worth of guitars. Next time I'm in Nashville I will shoot a video similar to this.