What I love most about this - the Martin sounds like a Martin and Guild sounds like a Guild: each have their unique character! I've always loved Martins (have 3) but am seriously thinking about how to get a D-55!
Get one. I own a D55 and it's the best. As a friend said of mine, it sounds like a grand piano of guitars. Resonance: great. Low and high end tones: incredible. I feel like this guitar would just play itself. Previously I had guitars with neck action requiring strength but I find I shouldn't work so hard. Play easy. The guitar will do the rest. Enjoy.
I own both and love both, but the D-55 is my favorite. I believe the D-55 has thinner bracing, similar to the D-35. To me, the D-55 is like a beautiful cross between a Martin and Gibson.
My word, these are two unbelievable instruments. I will echo what many others here are saying, I don't think you can say that one is better than the other... Slightly different tones, but two incredible guitars from builders that are at the top of their class! Too bad most of us don't have the pocket change to own one 😂
Two great guitars. The D-41 has that traditional bluegrass ring which to me is a tighter sound whereas the D-55 has more latitude, rounded and balanced. I like their comment that the D-55 has projection like a J-200 in a Dreadnaught body. Comes down to playing style for me. I'm not a bluegrass picker so the D-55 is likely the choice. Great comparison. Exactly what I need to decide on my upcoming purchase.
Both awesome sounding guitars for sure. I've played for 48 years now and played pretty much all of them - Martin, Collings, Taylor, Huss & Dalton, Bourgeois, Santa Cruz, Guild, and more. Of all of those though, to my ears, the Guild D-55 stands a cut above. It just overall sounds INCREDIBLE. So... I bought one and it's a custom model that again, to my ears, sounds even better than the "standard" D-55. I've never looked back as it sounds better and better every time I pick it up. Thanks for this cool comparison video!
To me it always seems the D55 wins these head to head comparisons. Subjective, but every time I hear it played against any others it just sounds noticeably better.
Certainly it's subjective... but for my money the D55 is the king of dreadnaughts. Period. Especial when it comes to serious strumming and flat picking. I think some of the Martins are better at fingerpicking articulation, but none of them have that thundering richness of a Guild.
Love both. A decision one way or the other would depend on price. Could you consider Canadian made guitars by the Godin family now that they’ve started building with more traditional tonewoods in addition to cherry and maple?
Thanks for this review. Guild for me, although I prefer the Guild jumbos to dreads. We all have guitars we regret selling and for me one was a 1974 F50R. When I bought that guitar new Martins of that era sounded dull. I’d love to see reviews of higher end Breedloves. I have an Oregon Concerto spruce/myrtlewood model that I think would compare favorably with a lot of the guitars you feature.
In a golden era of acoustic guitars, either one of these instruments is worth your time and/or money. It's a matter of which one feels/sounds/plays best overall (ears, hands, and fingers) to any individual musician. As I've commented many times here, I would prefer both. If I had to pick one, of the two played here, I'd pick the Guild. With solid spruce tops and rosewood back and sides, either of these should age nicely from a very nice sound, to begin with.
You should hear the JUMBO Version, the F-55 MAPLE or ROSEWOOD!!!😎😎😎However here I would pick the MARTIN as it has a significantly smaller LOWER BOUT, and as I already own the MAPLE JUMBO GUILD. You can't go wrong hear regardless of your decision, in IMHO.
@Bachelor Bookbinder Oh sweet! I’m actually looking at getting the Gibson Pre-War J-200 It has a torrefied Adirondack top with a beautiful rosewood back and sides. If I can’t get it the Guild Maple jumbo is my next choice. Thank you for the comment
I would love to see videos about how to amplify guitars and what kind of gear you're using at your gigs. Paul one mentioned how much difference a sub can make, and how he sometimes demos that for a customer, and I would like to see that. I can listen to a guitar in a shop and get a decent idea what it will sound like when I get it home, but it is much, much harder to tell how a particular piece of gear will perform when I finally use it at a gig. Pretty much anything dealing with how to amplify an acoustic instrument (pickups, amps, Fishman Aura, etc.) would interest me.
Martin has a great sound I love. I’ve had the privilege of playing a D41 but not a Guild dread since the 70’s so I don’t recall the sound. Back in the day Guilds were well know, well used, and a top level guitar. Great to see this video. Thank you
*Them:* "do you want that boom!?" *Me:* (checks with wife to see what level of boom I'm allowed) *Wife:* states she wants more "boom" *Me:* yes, I'll take that boom
I agree that Gibsons are unreasonably over priced and seem to get around that every time since players & collectors don’t let the prices go down! Guilds are better and true American rockers 🤘
First off, this is coming form a Martin fan. I don't even own a Gibson. Martin is selling Custom D-18 '37 Authentics for $7-8K, but Gibsons are overpriced? The Gibson equivalent Historic Series are $4-5K. And again, they're overpriced? How many Historics have you played? The dozen I have seen were all fantastic.
Both fantastic guitars, I have a D 41. I have the impression that the Guild has somehow a louder sound whereas the Martin has a little bit more focus and musicality ... but both very beautiful.
I own the D55 and it´s very focused but maybe it´s a bit darker sounding in reality. In a comparison like in this video the choice of microphone distorts the sound cause no microphone has a perfect characteristic and frequency response.
I have both and the Martin is more focus than the Guild. I can see how the Guild’s warmth and mellowness appeal to people but the Martin has more clarity and definition than the Guild does. And you don’t need to convince me how great Guild guitars are because I have 4 Guilds (D55, F55 rosewood, F512 maple, F512 rosewood) and I’m looking to add one more Guild (F55 maple) to my collection.
Sound wise, there are people who like the Guild for its tones, mellowness, and loudness while others prefer the earthy and balanced tones, as well as clarity of the Martin. Aesthetically, it's personal preference and taste. Some like the simplicity of Martin guitar's headstock and pickguard while others prefer the Guild's look. One important consideration (or not so important to some people) is craftmanship and attention to details. In this area, Guilds are not on par with expensive brands like Martin, Taylor, Gibson, etc. I'm saying this as a Guild fan as I own four Guild guitars, as well as one or two of each other brand; i.e., Martin, Taylor, and Gibson. Guild guitars are nice and very well-made, especially, the high-end models and they feel comfortable and nice to play. However, the Martin, Taylor, and Gibson guitars are just a bit more comfortable and nicer to play. "Comfortable and nice" is not equal to "playability" in this comparison. Let's use the frets as a study case. The Guild frets are nice and comfortable; no rough edges or anything in that effect. However, the frets on Martin, Taylor, and Gibson guitars feel a bit more comfortable and nicer, especially, when playing up and down the neck. Looking closely at the frets, I can tell Martin, Taylor, and Gibson put more effort and attention in polishing the frets than Guild did. Craftmanship wise, there are other things that people can nitpick, and all would lead to similar conclusion on the price tag. More craftmanship and attention to details means higher price tag for the guitar. I'm not a nitpicker, thus, the other things are negligible to me. Four most important considerations for my guitars are: 1) tones, 2) playability, 3) price tag, and 4) overall look and feel. Like many others, I looked for reasons why one brand is more expensive than the others and I think I found one probable reason in craftmanship and attention to details. My observations are based on my experience with the guitars I own. The guitars I used in this comparison are the ones I thought that they are not too far apart in term of price range such as Guilds (D55, F55 rosewood, F512 maple, F512 rosewood), Martin D41, Taylor (814ce Builder's Edition, 858e 12-string), Gibson (SJ200 Standard, SJ200 Orianthi). And you can tell that I have more Guild guitars than other brands for the obvious reason that I'm a fan of Guild guitars and also because Guilds are less expensive than Martins, Taylors, and Gibsons.
You should own an f55. It’s just different than the d55. It has more clarity/definition than the d55. The d55 is just a bit louder and perhaps mellower.
Both fine instruments! In the, have you considered this idea department, how about starting, Consignment Guitar of the Month/Quarter, etc video? My guess is that from time-to-time you receive video-worthy guitars on consignment...
love what you guys are doing - great to hear the differences side by side. Keep up the great work! PS - I presume Paul is also a guitarist. If true, maybe you guys can do some duets to round out the segment.
I have both, amazing guitars…I’m a bit more partial to the Guild as it was my first really good guitar now over 20 years old. Incredible in double dropped D tuning or open G.
Great video's. Hey guys I hear that guild have brought a 70th annerversary d55. Madagascar and adaronkack. That would be a killer dreadnought to test and review on your channel. I recently sold my regular d55 but now I miss it and want the new one coming out. 🎸 🎸 It's a shame that guild don't hold their value. Now Yamaha own cordoba and guild guitars. Wow. Dean 🇬🇧
Is that a Guild OM-120 hanging on the wall behind you? I've always been curious to watch a comparison video between the Guild OM-120 and the Martin 000-15M. By the way, great video as always! I slightly prefer the D-41 more balanced tone.
@@timnewman1172 spoiler: I already own an OM-120 and it's a killer guitar! Absolutely out of its price range in terms of quality and sound. There's a (not so) subtle difference in tone with the 000-15M that I was never really able to grasp. Cheers
Love both, but to me the D41 is way more balanced. The powerful bass on the guild obscures everything else. Same thing I noticed in the comparison with the d28. If you can pay close attention without focusing too much on the loud bass and focus more on everything else you can see that the Martin has more clarity all around in spite of the Guild winning the loud boom battle
Nice. The low end kind of eminates from the Guild. It's, like, wow. It's there. The bloom grows. Really cool From the Martin, it goes boom. The initial attack seems to define it.
My Husband has had Both , He sold his Guild D55 which sounded great by the way ..because his martins were always his first choice go to guitars over the Guild .
The Guild is a beautiful guitar (I've always liked their Jumbo F-50, F-55) my only complaint is the nut width on the Guild is 1 11/16th, the Martin is 1 3/4", which I prefer. They both sound amazing.
I totally concur with your neck width concern with Guild guitars. I really love how their sound. Even the cheap ones (~$600 -700) sound great. I have a $15,000 custom D-45, but I would buy both a Guild D-55 and D-40 in a heart beat if Guild changed their neck size to 1 3/4". I called them multiple times, wrote to them multiple times to let them know this particular neck size is very appreciated by finger-pickers, but I never was able to grab the company's interest. Martin made that big change just a few years ago and it received a huge amount of appreciation. Guild really needs to listen to its customers.
I have Guilds, Martins, Gibsons, and Taylors. They all have great playability to me. It’s not the guitars; it’s the players unless you have giant hands. My most comfortable guitar (or best playability) is the Gibson SJ200 Orianthi which has electric guitar neck with smaller nut width than the standard SJ200. All people who played SJ200 Orianthi guitar agreed with me on that. It's not just the nut width that make guitars easy to play. Neck shape and profile, scale length, wood, etc. all contribute to playability of the neck.
beautiful guitars, both sound wonderful. wouldn't mind the matchup with a d-18 vs guild d55 or guild d40 vs d-45? almost like standard vs bling compares? You guys have done so many good ones of guitars in the same ballpark, might be neat to do more opposing end of the spectrums, those are always fun to hear. even something like a j-200 vs a OM etc.
When I was playing the songwriter rounds in Nashville I always thought the Guilds were the best sounding guitars in that environment. The crowds weren’t real loud, and through the PA the Guilds were just amazing. I’ve played out with Yamaha, Gibson, and Martin guitars, and I really love my J45, but I would love to add a D55 to the “family.”
Waylon Jennings played a D55 when he was doing acoustic stuff. My first acoustic was a guild…currently playing a Takamine. But I’ve got my eye on the D55E…need to sell a kidney or something haha.
Is it just me or is the guild a bigger footprint ie wider than the Martin? I know the pickguard but seeing them side by side guild looks like a different shape
Love them both..The Martin D41sounds like a Martin and the Guild D55 sounds like a Guild..Both beautiful sounding acoustic guitars..Would be happy with either.
Love these comparison videos. Excellent so many thanks. Interesting to read all the comments and how we all hear different things. I don't rate that Guild, sounds muddy, lacks chime, definition and complexity. The D41 is classic Martin sound. Sweet with subtle overtones. Wondering if it's the quality of the rosewood I'm hearing. I typically prefer a darker IR, as to my ears it always has those beautiful overtones and that very light rosewood on the 55 is why I'm probably not hearing any. For example on nearly all Santa Cruz and Bourgeois guitars the Indian Rosewood examples are mostly a very dark hue.
Look maybe deceiving. The darker color maybe due to the darker stain. The Guild in fact does have higher grade wood (AAA spruce top, and bookmark rosewood back). The Martin does sound clearer while the Guild sounds louder and mellower. The Guild does not sound muddy and it has plenty of overtones.
2 excellent guitare for me...I think the Martin is probably more expensive, so the Guild would have its chances if it came to buying...Otherwise I do have a little smth. in favour of the Martin, and like its look better too...The make's prestige as well definitely comes along the Martin side for me.
Both sound fantasic, the Guild with more 'power' in the lower registers it seems? One thing I noticed, presumably all things being equal in the microphone setup, is that the noise emanating from the fretboard on the Guild as the player changes a chord or or moves between frets when finger picking is almost non-existent even when deliberately listening for it, whereas on the Martin you clearly can hear the changes occuring on the fret board. That's just me being super nit picky as I wish I could play half as good! I would have thought from a recording perpective, that might just give the Guild an edge? Then again, what do I know and I can't afford either! Shame.... Great video.
Would love to see 00-18 vs Gibson l00 standard (or original) the 0-18 vs lg2 y'all did awhile back the lg2 had an unfair advantage as the 18 was a standard and the lg2 was a custom shop so from a "what does someone want in a price range comparison standpoint" I think it would do justice to do that again with the non custom shop. The custom shop sounded better to me but that's not really fair lol because it's like saying you have to shell out extra to get the sound you want. I'm curious how the regular lg2/l00 holds up to the 0/00-18 I know it all depends on what's available in stock at any given time. Would super appreciate it
Long time owner of very high end Martins, D-28, 000-42 Adirondack/Madagascar, D-42 Adirondack/Guatamalan, and D-18 1937 authentic with sinker mahogany. The Guild D-55 has all my respect. I should really own one. I do not understand why I don't yet, but I do think it is on my purchase list in the next 12 months. It seems to be a must have, along with its cousin, the D-40. Guild also makes incredible 12-string guitars.
I love this comparison because both those guitars (substitute an HD28 because I don't care for D41's/45's) are next on my list. I really don't think one is better than the other too which is what makes it so hard. I give the edge to Guild in terms of versatility, value for money, and aesthetics (Guild headstock and fretboard binding which is rare even on jazz guitars these days and it is beautiful, by comparison Martin D41 and higher guitars have always looked a little to bling for my taste.) I give the edge to Martin in terms of resale value, finishing (and this is a razor thin advantage but if you ever buy a brand new Martin and touch and smell the thing you will instantly recognize the attention to detail, Guild is the second best guitar builder and it is very, very close) and for clearer note articulation (trying to think of how to describe this because the Guild isn't exactly muddy but you can hear the Jazz roots in Guild's build while the Martin can both cut and sustain ringing notes.) In short it's a campfire or singer-songwriter's guitar (Guild) vs Bluegrass/Professional Musicians guitar (again unfair comparison but Martin's have a deserved reputation for refinement and for just being a known sound when it comes to recording.) I'd be happy with either and at some point will own both.
I know you have Taylor's, I'd like to see a Taylor 12 fret vs 14(possibly a slotted 712ce). Also, do you ever get any Blueridge, Larrivee's, or Alvarez? Would be great to hear Quinton compare a D-28 to a BR-160, D03r, or MD60.
I a mix, together with a bass-player, I might prefer the Martin D-41 because it sounds so bell-like and rich in overtones and bass is already covered. Playing just on my own, however, I would choose the D-55, I just love that low-end oomph.
I hear the Martin as more "rounded". The Guild is beautiful, but the "high-mids" jump out a bit too much, for my taste. But of course, that's only based on this test and this listening medium.👍✌🤣
I thought the Martin had more lows and the guild had more volume and highs but hearing it in person is different than a mic Yea I definitely feel like the Martin seems to have more low end in this recording
Hating to say it but the Guild has a louder booming bass, rings in the high register with great sustain. Also, it doesn’t give up anything in the mids. The Martin sounds more controlled fingerpicking.
The D-55 makes me think of Richie Havens... bold & punchy. The D-41 is more like Neil Young, a bit softer and more relaxed. Neither is better or worse, and both are some of the best made instruments you can buy.
I liked the sound of the Guild best when strumming and the Martin best when picking. Both are great guitars. P.S. I have 3 Martin 6 strings and a Guild 12 string. All American quality guitars.
I think a lot of people sleep on Guild and buy a Martin, Taylor, or Gibson for the name notoriety. This video goes to show just how special Guild guitars are. I bought a M-240 in 2019 and it's the first guitar I reach for when playing. My other two (more expensive) acoustics reside in their cases while my Guild sits proudly on it's stand.
What do you mean by sleep on Guild? People don’t buy Martin, Taylor, and Gibson just for their name. Those are great guitars and people buy them because of that. BTW I have 4 Guilds and mines are high end Guilds not your kind of Guild. I also have Gibsons, Martins, and Taylors because they are great guitars.
If they would let me choose one for free, i close my eyes, point and with any of the two i would be the happiest man in the world, both amazing iconic beauty's!
Fun comparison. I have a newer Martin HD-45v and a 1975 Guild D-35NT - and would not trade or sell either - each plays differently and has a different sound. BUT then the newer Guild model in this video sounds really good, maybe much better, than my older model made in the original Westerly RI factory - it sounds much closer to the Martin sound and may be a serious contender/alternative. The Martin model in this video sounds just a tad brighter and stronger in the higher frequency range than the Guild - but it s very close and clearly Guild has stepped up its game and is a serious competitor again. They both look and sound very close and very good. Just my take. Your mileage may differ. JR
Martin: Somber Guild: Uplifting Choose your songs carefully either way P.S. This is the way I heard the comparison. I know what your going to say so... P.P.S I have been almost starting to learn guitar for 45 years. Don't mess with me! LOL
It's such a shame Guilds gets so overlooked. Even worse is how hard they are to find in person. I'm in Houston, 3rd or 4th largest city in the entire country, and there's not a single store I'm aware of that carries more than one or two odd Guilds. And the ones they do have are always the lowest end Guilds available. Not to knock the low end ones, I think they're incredible value for money and typically better than anything else in their price bracket. But, it would be great for more people to get their hands on Guild's top end stuff. I used to be a Gibson guy, but was fortunate enough to be in a shop out on the East Coast that had most of the Guild line (25 years back). I've been exclusively playing Guild acoustics ever since. I was sitting in a a jam session a couple months back with a group of players. I busted out my F55 jumbo and everyone lost their shit over how rich and full the sound was. One J-200 player was floored, he just didn't think their was a Jumbo available that would challenge the Gibson. None of them had ever played a Guild, most had never seen one. In a room of experienced players, that's just sad.
So chime in folks in the know, D-41 at $5000 or the D-28 Custom Authentic at $5300? D-28 CA for me from Music Villa in Bozeman Mt., just don't move here.
I'd be very hesitant to purchase D-55... I recently purchased a D-1212 nice especially for the $$ but I attempted to register for warranty and didn't get confirmed after twice repeated the attempt I called..Three times different departments including customer servics and got a recording to leave a message???....HOW LAME....😢 I went and bought the Martin D-41 and love it....Customer service always there too to register your purchase...Get what you pay for I guess.😊
The Martin's got a bit more twang and bite, and the Guild is noticeably fuller and more balanced to my ears. I think the Martin would probably sit in a mix a bit better and the Guild would really shine for a soloist.
Agree with your premise. The Guild would need to go thru an EQ pedal to help find it’s place with a band…but it blows the Martin away out on the back porch.
This is real easy, at least for me. Flat picking, the Guild wins hands-down. However if you're a finger pickin' kind of guy/gal, then that D-41's more mid-rangey sorta tone might be the better choice. Both are wonderful. 👍👍
If a manufacturer doesn't have a recognizable signature tone why bother. They ALL have their own sound. I'm a Martin guy, but I've owned Taylor, Bourgeois, Collings and Santa Cruz over the decades for their differences, Nothing wrong with Guild just never owned one. Play what makes your ears happy...................
Both quality instruments. The Martin sounds crisper than the Guild but the Guild sounds mellower than the Martin. I would lean toward the Martin, but imagine how these guitars will sound in a few years after a lot of playing! I had a Guild D50 back in the late 70s and early 80s but it never seemed to open up after so many years. I replaced it with a Martin HD28 which Really opened up after lots of playing.
I found a d50 a while back, a new, never purchased model that by the serial number was almost 5 years old. I bought it and love the sound. For a basic, unadorned rosewood/spruce model it is killer. I love the guitar.
@@chrisbotelho7212 I've played killer D50s in the past that would match any D28, D41, D45. But I guess mine never completely blossomed like those. Taylors also sound good to me off the rack, but they seem to lack something. I really love the Bourgeois guitars which give Martins a run for the money. Maybe its the Adirondack tops that they use.
@@5StarAlcatraz I have a Taylor 615 maple jumbo that I purchased in 1994. It is a beautiful sounding guitar with lots of chime. It gets many compliments whenever I play it out. Can't say that for other Taylor's I've played, I find them kind of thin sounding, but this one is special. It has the best neck I've ever played. So many guitars, so little time and money.
What I love most about this - the Martin sounds like a Martin and Guild sounds like a Guild: each have their unique character! I've always loved Martins (have 3) but am seriously thinking about how to get a D-55!
Yeah man, I heard it too Steve! Go for it! Now, sell me your used Martin, ha, ha!
Get one. I own a D55 and it's the best. As a friend said of mine, it sounds like a grand piano of guitars. Resonance: great. Low and high end tones: incredible. I feel like this guitar would just play itself. Previously I had guitars with neck action requiring strength but I find I shouldn't work so hard. Play easy. The guitar will do the rest. Enjoy.
@@amybrizzolara8656 Thanks!
I made my mind I’m getting a D55, wait do I know how to play guitar? … is it a requirement for getting one? … of course not!!
I own both and love both, but the D-55 is my favorite. I believe the D-55 has thinner bracing, similar to the D-35. To me, the D-55 is like a beautiful cross between a Martin and Gibson.
Enjoyed hearing both. D-41. No contest.
My word, these are two unbelievable instruments. I will echo what many others here are saying, I don't think you can say that one is better than the other... Slightly different tones, but two incredible guitars from builders that are at the top of their class! Too bad most of us don't have the pocket change to own one 😂
Two great guitars. The D-41 has that traditional bluegrass ring which to me is a tighter sound whereas the D-55 has more latitude, rounded and balanced. I like their comment that the D-55 has projection like a J-200 in a Dreadnaught body. Comes down to playing style for me. I'm not a bluegrass picker so the D-55 is likely the choice. Great comparison. Exactly what I need to decide on my upcoming purchase.
Can't help but love both. But to my ear, I preferred the Guild when played with a flat pick and the Martin when played finger style.
Both awesome sounding guitars for sure. I've played for 48 years now and played pretty much all of them - Martin, Collings, Taylor, Huss & Dalton, Bourgeois, Santa Cruz, Guild, and more. Of all of those though, to my ears, the Guild D-55 stands a cut above. It just overall sounds INCREDIBLE. So... I bought one and it's a custom model that again, to my ears, sounds even better than the "standard" D-55. I've never looked back as it sounds better and better every time I pick it up. Thanks for this cool comparison video!
To me it always seems the D55 wins these head to head comparisons. Subjective, but every time I hear it played against any others it just sounds noticeably better.
They are great guitars
Certainly it's subjective... but for my money the D55 is the king of dreadnaughts. Period. Especial when it comes to serious strumming and flat picking. I think some of the Martins are better at fingerpicking articulation, but none of them have that thundering richness of a Guild.
Love both. A decision one way or the other would depend on price. Could you consider Canadian made guitars by the Godin family now that they’ve started building with more traditional tonewoods in addition to cherry and maple?
Thanks for this review. Guild for me, although I prefer the Guild jumbos to dreads. We all have guitars we regret selling and for me one was a 1974 F50R. When I bought that guitar new Martins of that era sounded dull.
I’d love to see reviews of higher end Breedloves. I have an Oregon Concerto spruce/myrtlewood model that I think would compare favorably with a lot of the guitars you feature.
Would love to see how the high end Yamahas (LL26 / 36 / 56) stack up if you can get your hands on one.
In a golden era of acoustic guitars, either one of these instruments is worth your time and/or money. It's a matter of which one feels/sounds/plays best overall (ears, hands, and fingers) to any individual musician. As I've commented many times here, I would prefer both. If I had to pick one, of the two played here, I'd pick the Guild. With solid spruce tops and rosewood back and sides, either of these should age nicely from a very nice sound, to begin with.
The Guild D-55 is by far a top notch guitar and seems to out perform almost any other major made high end acoustics.. amazing.
Agree completely
You should hear the JUMBO Version, the F-55 MAPLE or ROSEWOOD!!!😎😎😎However here I would pick the MARTIN as it has a significantly smaller LOWER BOUT, and as I already own the MAPLE JUMBO GUILD. You can't go wrong hear regardless of your decision, in IMHO.
@@seamusbrowne4909 I’m really interested in getting a guild jumbo! What are the pros and cons between the F55 Maple and F55 rosewood??
1000%
@Bachelor Bookbinder Oh sweet! I’m actually looking at getting the Gibson Pre-War J-200
It has a torrefied Adirondack top with a beautiful rosewood back and sides. If I can’t get it the Guild Maple jumbo is my next choice. Thank you for the comment
I own a Guild D55 and a Martin D35, both sound fantastic but if I had to keep one, the Guild would be my choice.
I would love to see videos about how to amplify guitars and what kind of gear you're using at your gigs. Paul one mentioned how much difference a sub can make, and how he sometimes demos that for a customer, and I would like to see that. I can listen to a guitar in a shop and get a decent idea what it will sound like when I get it home, but it is much, much harder to tell how a particular piece of gear will perform when I finally use it at a gig. Pretty much anything dealing with how to amplify an acoustic instrument (pickups, amps, Fishman Aura, etc.) would interest me.
I have a DV4 natural finish Guild that I feel has a beautiful tone and balance. Thank you for the comparison.
Martin has a great sound I love. I’ve had the privilege of playing a D41 but not a Guild dread since the 70’s so I don’t recall the sound. Back in the day Guilds were well know, well used, and a top level guitar. Great to see this video. Thank you
D55 is now on my radar
Great video! Love Guilds and Martins! How about doing a three way comparison with a Gibson. Thanks.
*Them:* "do you want that boom!?"
*Me:* (checks with wife to see what level of boom I'm allowed)
*Wife:* states she wants more "boom"
*Me:* yes, I'll take that boom
Great Comparison. D-55 is on my list.
I’ve got a 1973 Guild D-50. My first nice dred. I’ll never sell it
That Guild sounds great but my paid for Martin sounds just fine. The Guild DS240 Memoir burst is doing just fine and sounds great.
In the mix of Taylor's, Martin's and over priced Gibsons. Guild stands above as high quality, great value for your $.
I agree that Gibsons are unreasonably over priced and seem to get around that every time since players & collectors don’t let the prices go down!
Guilds are better and true American rockers 🤘
I used to think Gibson acoustics were overrated until I found one I just loved. I have 3 now but yeah, they're pretty inconsistent.
@@drasmusrascal9711 that's my point actually, you have to look for a good one..at those prices....ridiculous
First off, this is coming form a Martin fan. I don't even own a Gibson.
Martin is selling Custom D-18 '37 Authentics for $7-8K, but Gibsons are overpriced? The Gibson equivalent Historic Series are $4-5K. And again, they're overpriced? How many Historics have you played? The dozen I have seen were all fantastic.
Gibson any day.
I recently got to play a Guild d55 and it will be my next buy.
Both beautiful guitars
I love the sound of a Guild. Just a beautiful sound.
Both fantastic guitars, I have a D 41. I have the impression that the Guild has somehow a louder sound whereas the Martin has a little bit more focus and musicality ... but both very beautiful.
I own the D55 and it´s very focused but maybe it´s a bit darker sounding in reality. In a comparison like in this video the choice of microphone distorts the sound cause no microphone has a perfect characteristic and frequency response.
I have both and the Martin is more focus than the Guild. I can see how the Guild’s warmth and mellowness appeal to people but the Martin has more clarity and definition than the Guild does. And you don’t need to convince me how great Guild guitars are because I have 4 Guilds (D55, F55 rosewood, F512 maple, F512 rosewood) and I’m looking to add one more Guild (F55 maple) to my collection.
I'd love to see you guys do the range of Seagull guitars for comparison (I still love all the Marin stuff)
Holy Moly - this D-55 is a Big Boom Box - terrific !
Sound wise, there are people who like the Guild for its tones, mellowness, and loudness while others prefer the earthy and balanced tones, as well as clarity of the Martin. Aesthetically, it's personal preference and taste. Some like the simplicity of Martin guitar's headstock and pickguard while others prefer the Guild's look. One important consideration (or not so important to some people) is craftmanship and attention to details. In this area, Guilds are not on par with expensive brands like Martin, Taylor, Gibson, etc. I'm saying this as a Guild fan as I own four Guild guitars, as well as one or two of each other brand; i.e., Martin, Taylor, and Gibson. Guild guitars are nice and very well-made, especially, the high-end models and they feel comfortable and nice to play. However, the Martin, Taylor, and Gibson guitars are just a bit more comfortable and nicer to play. "Comfortable and nice" is not equal to "playability" in this comparison. Let's use the frets as a study case. The Guild frets are nice and comfortable; no rough edges or anything in that effect. However, the frets on Martin, Taylor, and Gibson guitars feel a bit more comfortable and nicer, especially, when playing up and down the neck. Looking closely at the frets, I can tell Martin, Taylor, and Gibson put more effort and attention in polishing the frets than Guild did. Craftmanship wise, there are other things that people can nitpick, and all would lead to similar conclusion on the price tag. More craftmanship and attention to details means higher price tag for the guitar. I'm not a nitpicker, thus, the other things are negligible to me. Four most important considerations for my guitars are: 1) tones, 2) playability, 3) price tag, and 4) overall look and feel. Like many others, I looked for reasons why one brand is more expensive than the others and I think I found one probable reason in craftmanship and attention to details. My observations are based on my experience with the guitars I own. The guitars I used in this comparison are the ones I thought that they are not too far apart in term of price range such as Guilds (D55, F55 rosewood, F512 maple, F512 rosewood), Martin D41, Taylor (814ce Builder's Edition, 858e 12-string), Gibson (SJ200 Standard, SJ200 Orianthi). And you can tell that I have more Guild guitars than other brands for the obvious reason that I'm a fan of Guild guitars and also because Guilds are less expensive than Martins, Taylors, and Gibsons.
Hi guy's. What about a comparison of guild d55 and f55.
I own a d55e and fancy buying the f55. Beautiful guitars. Great fun videos
You should own an f55. It’s just different than the d55. It has more clarity/definition than the d55. The d55 is just a bit louder and perhaps mellower.
Both sound great! Have you tried the zager guitars?
You are two good guys, very professional. I'd like to see a comparison between a rosewood Guild Jumbo F-55, and a Guild D-55.
Throw in my personal favorite guitar, a maple F-55 too
Hi, I would like to see a comparison between Martin M36 and Martin J40 :-) John from Denmark
Both fine instruments!
In the, have you considered this idea department, how about starting, Consignment Guitar of the Month/Quarter, etc video? My guess is that from time-to-time you receive video-worthy guitars on consignment...
love what you guys are doing - great to hear the differences side by side. Keep up the great work! PS - I presume Paul is also a guitarist. If true, maybe you guys can do some duets to round out the segment.
I have both, amazing guitars…I’m a bit more partial to the Guild as it was my first really good guitar now over 20 years old. Incredible in double dropped D tuning or open G.
Great video's. Hey guys I hear that guild have brought a 70th annerversary d55. Madagascar and adaronkack. That would be a killer dreadnought to test and review on your channel. I recently sold my regular d55 but now I miss it and want the new one coming out. 🎸 🎸
It's a shame that guild don't hold their value. Now Yamaha own cordoba and guild guitars. Wow. Dean 🇬🇧
There’re a few d55 anniversary videos on youtube. That guitar sounds great and about $2K more expensive than the standard d55.
Is that a Guild OM-120 hanging on the wall behind you? I've always been curious to watch a comparison video between the Guild OM-120 and the Martin 000-15M.
By the way, great video as always! I slightly prefer the D-41 more balanced tone.
Yes please, I would LOVE to see that!
If only Guild would make a USA version...
@@timnewman1172 spoiler: I already own an OM-120 and it's a killer guitar! Absolutely out of its price range in terms of quality and sound. There's a (not so) subtle difference in tone with the 000-15M that I was never really able to grasp. Cheers
@@timnewman1172 p.s. I read a comment from Guild on their instagram page that made me guess they're working on a USA version of this model. Sit tight.
Way Back in 75 I played 2 Martins and 1 Guild at the Bluefield Music store. Guess which one I bought. D-50 ! It's still ringing...
I own a d50. Great guitar.
Love both, but to me the D41 is way more balanced. The powerful bass on the guild obscures everything else. Same thing I noticed in the comparison with the d28. If you can pay close attention without focusing too much on the loud bass and focus more on everything else you can see that the Martin has more clarity all around in spite of the Guild winning the loud boom battle
Yes, the Guild has more bass and loudness since it has more body volume than the Martin. It’s a trade off between volume and definition.
Nice.
The low end kind of eminates from the Guild. It's, like, wow. It's there. The bloom grows. Really cool
From the Martin, it goes boom. The initial attack seems to define it.
Please compare a Modern Deluxe D-42 with a Standard D-42 and a Modern Deluxe D-18 with a Standard D-18. Thank you
Great Job Guys.!!!
My Husband has had Both , He sold his Guild D55 which sounded great by the way ..because his martins were always his first choice go to guitars over the Guild .
Like both guitars ..............and Paul's "silver fox" hair ! 👌👍
The Guild is a beautiful guitar (I've always liked their Jumbo F-50, F-55) my only complaint is the nut width on the Guild is 1 11/16th, the Martin is 1 3/4", which I prefer. They both sound amazing.
I totally concur with your neck width concern with Guild guitars. I really love how their sound. Even the cheap ones (~$600 -700) sound great. I have a $15,000 custom D-45, but I would buy both a Guild D-55 and D-40 in a heart beat if Guild changed their neck size to 1 3/4". I called them multiple times, wrote to them multiple times to let them know this particular neck size is very appreciated by finger-pickers, but I never was able to grab the company's interest. Martin made that big change just a few years ago and it received a huge amount of appreciation. Guild really needs to listen to its customers.
I have Guilds, Martins, Gibsons, and Taylors. They all have great playability to me. It’s not the guitars; it’s the players unless you have giant hands. My most comfortable guitar (or best playability) is the Gibson SJ200 Orianthi which has electric guitar neck with smaller nut width than the standard SJ200. All people who played SJ200 Orianthi guitar agreed with me on that. It's not just the nut width that make guitars easy to play. Neck shape and profile, scale length, wood, etc. all contribute to playability of the neck.
beautiful guitars, both sound wonderful. wouldn't mind the matchup with a d-18 vs guild d55 or guild d40 vs d-45? almost like standard vs bling compares? You guys have done so many good ones of guitars in the same ballpark, might be neat to do more opposing end of the spectrums, those are always fun to hear. even something like a j-200 vs a OM etc.
When I was playing the songwriter rounds in Nashville I always thought the Guilds were the best sounding guitars in that environment. The crowds weren’t real loud, and through the PA the Guilds were just amazing. I’ve played out with Yamaha, Gibson, and Martin guitars, and I really love my J45, but I would love to add a D55 to the “family.”
Waylon Jennings played a D55 when he was doing acoustic stuff. My first acoustic was a guild…currently playing a Takamine. But I’ve got my eye on the D55E…need to sell a kidney or something haha.
Why are the bottom strings on both so floppy?
Is it just me or is the guild a bigger footprint ie wider than the Martin? I know the pickguard but seeing them side by side guild looks like a different shape
I want to say the body of the Guild is longer. If not, perhaps the waist is slightly more narrow?
@@NoahSBarnes yeah that makes sense just seems like the curves are curvier it's not as square
The D55 has slightly wider hips to my eye.
The Martin sounds more restrained and controlled. This comparison reminds me of my HD28 vs my Taylor 810.
Love them both..The Martin D41sounds like a Martin and the Guild D55 sounds like a Guild..Both beautiful sounding acoustic guitars..Would be happy with either.
Love these comparison videos. Excellent so many thanks. Interesting to read all the comments and how we all hear different things. I don't rate that Guild, sounds muddy, lacks chime, definition and complexity. The D41 is classic Martin sound. Sweet with subtle overtones. Wondering if it's the quality of the rosewood I'm hearing. I typically prefer a darker IR, as to my ears it always has those beautiful overtones and that very light rosewood on the 55 is why I'm probably not hearing any. For example on nearly all Santa Cruz and Bourgeois guitars the Indian Rosewood examples are mostly a very dark hue.
Such a fanboy comment
Look maybe deceiving. The darker color maybe due to the darker stain. The Guild in fact does have higher grade wood (AAA spruce top, and bookmark rosewood back). The Martin does sound clearer while the Guild sounds louder and mellower. The Guild does not sound muddy and it has plenty of overtones.
I would love to see an Epiphone Excellente on the channel
I like guild,but I love the Martin
2 excellent guitare for me...I think the Martin is probably more expensive, so the Guild would have its chances if it came to buying...Otherwise I do have a little smth. in favour of the Martin, and like its look better too...The make's prestige as well definitely comes along the Martin side for me.
To me the Guild sounds better strummed than the Martin and the reverse is the case when picked.
How about a Martin D-10 Sapele vs Martin D-15M comparison?
Gibson Hummingbird compared to Guild D50 or D55?
Both sound fantasic, the Guild with more 'power' in the lower registers it seems? One thing I noticed, presumably all things being equal in the microphone setup, is that the noise emanating from the fretboard on the Guild as the player changes a chord or or moves between frets when finger picking is almost non-existent even when deliberately listening for it, whereas on the Martin you clearly can hear the changes occuring on the fret board. That's just me being super nit picky as I wish I could play half as good! I would have thought from a recording perpective, that might just give the Guild an edge? Then again, what do I know and I can't afford either! Shame.... Great video.
Would love to see 00-18 vs Gibson l00 standard (or original)
the 0-18 vs lg2 y'all did awhile back the lg2 had an unfair advantage as the 18 was a standard and the lg2 was a custom shop so from a "what does someone want in a price range comparison standpoint" I think it would do justice to do that again with the non custom shop. The custom shop sounded better to me but that's not really fair lol because it's like saying you have to shell out extra to get the sound you want.
I'm curious how the regular lg2/l00 holds up to the 0/00-18
I know it all depends on what's available in stock at any given time. Would super appreciate it
Any chance of comparing Martin D-28 Marquis with Authentic? 😉
Long time owner of very high end Martins, D-28, 000-42 Adirondack/Madagascar, D-42 Adirondack/Guatamalan, and D-18 1937 authentic with sinker mahogany. The Guild D-55 has all my respect. I should really own one. I do not understand why I don't yet, but I do think it is on my purchase list in the next 12 months. It seems to be a must have, along with its cousin, the D-40. Guild also makes incredible 12-string guitars.
I love this comparison because both those guitars (substitute an HD28 because I don't care for D41's/45's) are next on my list. I really don't think one is better than the other too which is what makes it so hard. I give the edge to Guild in terms of versatility, value for money, and aesthetics (Guild headstock and fretboard binding which is rare even on jazz guitars these days and it is beautiful, by comparison Martin D41 and higher guitars have always looked a little to bling for my taste.) I give the edge to Martin in terms of resale value, finishing (and this is a razor thin advantage but if you ever buy a brand new Martin and touch and smell the thing you will instantly recognize the attention to detail, Guild is the second best guitar builder and it is very, very close) and for clearer note articulation (trying to think of how to describe this because the Guild isn't exactly muddy but you can hear the Jazz roots in Guild's build while the Martin can both cut and sustain ringing notes.) In short it's a campfire or singer-songwriter's guitar (Guild) vs Bluegrass/Professional Musicians guitar (again unfair comparison but Martin's have a deserved reputation for refinement and for just being a known sound when it comes to recording.) I'd be happy with either and at some point will own both.
How do you choose? I guess you just need both!
I know you have Taylor's, I'd like to see a Taylor 12 fret vs 14(possibly a slotted 712ce). Also, do you ever get any Blueridge, Larrivee's, or Alvarez? Would be great to hear Quinton compare a D-28 to a BR-160, D03r, or MD60.
Good comparison.I picked up D-55 when they first came out of Oxnard.
I a mix, together with a bass-player, I might prefer the Martin D-41 because it sounds so bell-like and rich in overtones and bass is already covered. Playing just on my own, however, I would choose the D-55, I just love that low-end oomph.
No Comparison Marin sounds amazing
I hear the Martin as more "rounded". The Guild is beautiful, but the "high-mids" jump out a bit too much, for my taste. But of course, that's only based on this test and this listening medium.👍✌🤣
Wow the guild sounds amazing.
I have both these guitars
Got to say love hearing that Guild!
play near the back - short arms maybe?
How much for one each????
I owned both y my singing voice is on par wit them…my all solid wood piano studio kind
I thought the Martin had more lows and the guild had more volume and highs but hearing it in person is different than a mic
Yea I definitely feel like the Martin seems to have more low end in this recording
@@leoscomputerandguitarrevie978 makes sense, since guild is considered more durable and stable.
Hating to say it but the Guild has a louder booming bass, rings in the high register with great sustain. Also, it doesn’t give up anything in the mids.
The Martin sounds more controlled fingerpicking.
That Guild D-55 is just an eye catcher.
Agreed…looks so much nicer than the Martin.
Look is important but guitar tonality is as important if not more.
The D-55 makes me think of Richie Havens... bold & punchy.
The D-41 is more like Neil Young, a bit softer and more relaxed.
Neither is better or worse, and both are some of the best made instruments you can buy.
Guild !!
sadly, the D-55 is not available with a 1 3/4" nut width.
I liked the sound of the Guild best when strumming and the Martin best when picking. Both are great guitars. P.S. I have 3 Martin 6 strings and a Guild 12 string. All American quality guitars.
I think a lot of people sleep on Guild and buy a Martin, Taylor, or Gibson for the name notoriety. This video goes to show just how special Guild guitars are. I bought a M-240 in 2019 and it's the first guitar I reach for when playing. My other two (more expensive) acoustics reside in their cases while my Guild sits proudly on it's stand.
What do you mean by sleep on Guild? People don’t buy Martin, Taylor, and Gibson just for their name. Those are great guitars and people buy them because of that. BTW I have 4 Guilds and mines are high end Guilds not your kind of Guild. I also have Gibsons, Martins, and Taylors because they are great guitars.
If they would let me choose one for free, i close my eyes, point and with any of the two i would be the happiest man in the world, both amazing iconic beauty's!
I am a Guild guy but it really comes down to preference. both guitars are super high end professional grade instruments.
Fun comparison. I have a newer Martin HD-45v and a 1975 Guild D-35NT - and would not trade or sell either - each plays differently and has a different sound. BUT then the newer Guild model in this video sounds really good, maybe much better, than my older model made in the original Westerly RI factory - it sounds much closer to the Martin sound and may be a serious contender/alternative. The Martin model in this video sounds just a tad brighter and stronger in the higher frequency range than the Guild - but it s very close and clearly Guild has stepped up its game and is a serious competitor again. They both look and sound very close and very good. Just my take. Your mileage may differ. JR
Martin: Somber
Guild: Uplifting
Choose your songs carefully either way
P.S. This is the way I heard the comparison.
I know what your going to say so...
P.P.S I have been almost starting to learn guitar for 45 years. Don't mess with me! LOL
It's such a shame Guilds gets so overlooked. Even worse is how hard they are to find in person. I'm in Houston, 3rd or 4th largest city in the entire country, and there's not a single store I'm aware of that carries more than one or two odd Guilds. And the ones they do have are always the lowest end Guilds available. Not to knock the low end ones, I think they're incredible value for money and typically better than anything else in their price bracket. But, it would be great for more people to get their hands on Guild's top end stuff.
I used to be a Gibson guy, but was fortunate enough to be in a shop out on the East Coast that had most of the Guild line (25 years back). I've been exclusively playing Guild acoustics ever since. I was sitting in a a jam session a couple months back with a group of players. I busted out my F55 jumbo and everyone lost their shit over how rich and full the sound was. One J-200 player was floored, he just didn't think their was a Jumbo available that would challenge the Gibson. None of them had ever played a Guild, most had never seen one. In a room of experienced players, that's just sad.
Great comparison. I'd like to see a Guild M-20 compared to a Martin 00-15.
So chime in folks in the know, D-41 at $5000 or the D-28 Custom Authentic at $5300? D-28 CA for me from Music Villa in Bozeman Mt., just don't move here.
So what is your question?
D41 is a good investment. D41 would hold its value; and it’s a better guitar.
I'd be very hesitant to purchase D-55... I recently purchased a D-1212 nice especially for the $$ but I attempted to register for warranty and didn't get confirmed after twice repeated the attempt I called..Three times different departments including customer servics and got a recording to leave a message???....HOW LAME....😢 I went and bought the Martin D-41 and love it....Customer service always there too to register your purchase...Get what you pay for I guess.😊
First and foremost, both guitars sound great. I generally preferred the Guild here but I did prefer the Martin on the last fingerpicked comparison.
I just bought D55E...OMG beats them all!
The Martin's got a bit more twang and bite, and the Guild is noticeably fuller and more balanced to my ears. I think the Martin would probably sit in a mix a bit better and the Guild would really shine for a soloist.
Agree with your premise. The Guild would need to go thru an EQ pedal to help find it’s place with a band…but it blows the Martin away out on the back porch.
This is real easy, at least for me. Flat picking, the Guild wins hands-down. However if you're a finger pickin' kind of guy/gal, then that D-41's more mid-rangey sorta tone might be the better choice. Both are wonderful. 👍👍
This Martin sounds better than any Martin I have played but I still prefer Guild and wish that I could own one again.
If a manufacturer doesn't have a recognizable signature tone why bother. They ALL have their own sound. I'm a Martin guy, but I've owned Taylor, Bourgeois, Collings and Santa Cruz over the decades for their differences, Nothing wrong with Guild just never owned one. Play what makes your ears happy...................
D55 Richie Havens guitar . Rip Richie
Both quality instruments. The Martin sounds crisper than the Guild but the Guild sounds mellower than the Martin. I would lean toward the Martin, but imagine how these guitars will sound in a few years after a lot of playing! I had a Guild D50 back in the late 70s and early 80s but it never seemed to open up after so many years. I replaced it with a Martin HD28 which Really opened up after lots of playing.
I found a d50 a while back, a new, never purchased model that by the serial number was almost 5 years old. I bought it and love the sound. For a basic, unadorned rosewood/spruce model it is killer. I love the guitar.
@@chrisbotelho7212 I've played killer D50s in the past that would match any D28, D41, D45. But I guess mine never completely blossomed like those. Taylors also sound good to me off the rack, but they seem to lack something. I really love the Bourgeois guitars which give Martins a run for the money. Maybe its the Adirondack tops that they use.
@@5StarAlcatraz I have a Taylor 615 maple jumbo that I purchased in 1994. It is a beautiful sounding guitar with lots of chime. It gets many compliments whenever I play it out. Can't say that for other Taylor's I've played, I find them kind of thin sounding, but this one is special. It has the best neck I've ever played. So many guitars, so little time and money.