Without doubt the best acoustic demos on RUclips. Spent months researching and finally settled on a D-18/00-28 duo. After a couple of years no desire for change, so it must have been a good decision.
Love the D-28, loud & proud:) I have six acoustic guitars and I always come back to my D-28. D-18 is a great guitar too but the D-28 has that extra bit that catches the ear. Great comparison video!
Great video and playing. I got a D-28 last spring and just ordered a D-18, today. I hesitated, but your videos with the D-18 helped persuade me to pull the trigger. Love both guitars.
Yes, there we have them once more : The rose clearer and broader The hog warmer and more rounded I dig and have both. The switch is the clue, , , and the key to an entertaining life.
Both really good sounding. The D28 is by far more complex but that is not always what you want. The bluesy sound of the 18 is great, overtones on the 28 the same ;)
Hiya Ian, great demo. I have a D28 mod dlx rosewood and a cheapy Yamaha LL5 with mahogany, both spruce tops. I use the same LR Baggs Anthem pickup in both. Through my guitar pedals the Yamaha sounds great compared to my $4k Martin which sounds kinda dark, flumpy and awful to say the least. I’m thinking of buying a D18 ModDlx so I can sound a lot better amplified during a bar/restaurant gig. Will the D18 be something you’d agree on? They sound much brighter in the videos I scout out. Btw, my Taylor 614ce maple back and side with spruce sounds amazing through mod pedals and what not. It’s gotta be a combination of the Expression System 2 and the bright maple! So, can the mahogany cure my problem with an amplified sound or could it maybe be the pickup??? 🙂, Edward
You can see why a D-18 would be better in a mix-the timbre isn’t all over the place. The D-28 has a super full sound though, so would be my choice for playing and singing by myself.
28 is a bit more open and lively, but the 18 is so much warmer and powerful. can always cut that bass end on the 18 a bit, but can't really add it on the 28.....
I think the D28 has no scalloped bracing, which would tickle more bass response out of the guitar. A closer comparison would have been the HD28 with scalloped bracing.
I've played a bunch of both guitars, and I own a D-18. This is the first comparison video where the D-18 sounded like a D-18. Listening to RUclips with Firefox through a Pioneer SC-91 into Sennheiser HD 580 Precision headphones. Under these conditions, the two guitars really sound very, very similar and I find myself making distinctions based on having played them, not listening to them. D-28 plays a little crisper, feels a bit more "solid" somehow like it's not giving into the music. Listening here, I feel like that comes as as more highs in the D-28. I am also of the opinion that D-28 holds up better over time. My D-18 has seen the shop a LOT.
I own both of these guitars. The D28 is a 2019 and the D18 is a 2020. The D28 came from the factory with the action high enough to use it as a lap steel string with a slide (lol) and the D18 action was so low out of the box, it plays like an electric (think high end Taylor action). The truss rod has been turned slightly and the saddle adjusted on the D28 but it will simply never play like the D18 and I’m not sure why. I love them both but the D18 sings to me when I play it and even with mediums on it, it’s so dang easy to play. Either my D28 is a one off or Martin sets them up far different at the factory.
@ if I had to guess, GC had the D28 in a warehouse far too damp and the top swelled. It seems to be getting some better now that I have the heat in the house on and I’ve invested in the two way humidification system which is also helping. Sadly, a “new guitar” hanging in a store can be far from new/factory condition. Only time will tell.
Ian I know they are two different price points and build quality but sound wise how would you compare the D18 with the Eastman E1D? They sound really similar in your videos!
If given the choice, I'd take the d18 every time. It just feels right to me. But if I was strapped for cash (which I usually am), I'd be totally fine with the Eastman
@@ianmeadows6351 yeah definitely take D18 any day of week but your video of the Eastman made me buy one and was interested in comparison. When covid passes I'm getting a D18 though
I recently bought an Eastman E1D because I can’t afford a D18. I’m very happy with the Eastman. It’s warm and earthy. I’m getting used to the wider 1.75 inch nut. I set it up - both saddle and nut - right after I got it and it plays and feels great.
First time I played a Eastman E1D I knew It was the one. Great guitar for the price. Hard to find a guitar under 600 bucks with a Ebony bridge and fingerboard.
Tony Wall I own a D18 👍🏼 You asked did I miss something when it came to which guitar was which! It states D18 vs D28 so you would just know the D18 comes first. My comment was saying if you know your Martins, you can easily tell them apart. All the best 👌🏼
Then you got a lemon or something there's absolutely nothing thin about a d18. Get one with an Addy top and fs ge bracing if it's that much of an issue. But the regular d18 is a fine guitar
How are there not more subscribers. These are the best acoustic demos on RUclips. Amazing job man, really.
Very nice of you to say Ronnie. I'm gonna keep em coming and continue to improve!
Ronnie MacRae I agree, excellent recording quality and straight to the point with just playing and letting the guitar speak for itself
I am gonna subscribe here in 2023
00:00 D18 Strumming
01:09 D18 Picking
03:06 D28 Strumming
04:18 D28 Picking
Without doubt the best acoustic demos on RUclips. Spent months researching and finally settled on a D-18/00-28 duo. After a couple of years no desire for change, so it must have been a good decision.
That is an excellent pairing, and if I had to narrow it down to two both of those guitars would be in the running. Congrats!
Wow 🥺
Love the D-28, loud & proud:) I have six acoustic guitars and I always come back to my D-28. D-18 is a great guitar too but the D-28 has that extra bit that catches the ear. Great comparison video!
Curious what type of music do you play or what is your predominant style?
I played all different guitars through years and also in guitar center including 4-5k Taylor but d-18 sounded amazing. What a stand out sounds
Great video and playing. I got a D-28 last spring and just ordered a D-18, today. I hesitated, but your videos with the D-18 helped persuade me to pull the trigger. Love both guitars.
0:27 3:33
Both sounded great I love that Martin tone
Two great guitars. Tough to beat a Martin.
You gotta have both. They're two different animals, both beautiful in their own ways.
Yes, there we have them once more :
The rose clearer and broader
The hog warmer and more rounded
I dig and have both. The switch is the clue, , , and the key to an entertaining life.
Nice comparison. A D-18 would be my pick.
Both great guitars. Comes down to preference. Can't go wrong with either.
Both really good sounding. The D28 is by far more complex but that is not always what you want. The bluesy sound of the 18 is great, overtones on the 28 the same ;)
As others have said, you make the best acoustic videos on RUclips, man. Keep it up!
Hiya Ian, great demo. I have a D28 mod dlx rosewood and a cheapy Yamaha LL5 with mahogany, both spruce tops. I use the same LR Baggs Anthem pickup in both. Through my guitar pedals the Yamaha sounds great compared to my $4k Martin which sounds kinda dark, flumpy and awful to say the least. I’m thinking of buying a D18 ModDlx so I can sound a lot better amplified during a bar/restaurant gig. Will the D18 be something you’d agree on? They sound much brighter in the videos I scout out. Btw, my Taylor 614ce maple back and side with spruce sounds amazing through mod pedals and what not. It’s gotta be a combination of the Expression System 2 and the bright maple! So, can the mahogany cure my problem with an amplified sound or could it maybe be the pickup??? 🙂, Edward
Absolutely you could bring out the unique character for these two iconic Martin,excellent demo, I enjoy it very much
Thank you so much.I appreciate !
Both please. Alternate days of bliss.
That's what I'm saying. Life's too short.
damn! I was peeking at my work email and not looking and the D-28 came in and blew all the papers off my desk! Jeez! lol
Best comparison video Thank you Ill be getting both ;)
Awesome Steve!!!
You can see why a D-18 would be better in a mix-the timbre isn’t all over the place.
The D-28 has a super full sound though, so would be my choice for playing and singing by myself.
Hey man, whats on the side of you, next to the headstock? Is this for sound treatment? Thanks
When it comes to Acoustic Guitars .. play Authentic
PLAY MARTIN
Heck yeah!
D-18 0:00 D-28 3:07
What year were these two guitars made? I find the woods differ depending on the era...
Both are 2019
28 is a bit more open and lively, but the 18 is so much warmer and powerful. can always cut that bass end on the 18 a bit, but can't really add it on the 28.....
I think the D28 has no scalloped bracing, which would tickle more bass response out of the guitar. A closer comparison would have been the HD28 with scalloped bracing.
I like both
nooooooooooooooooooooo
My wife says I should buy both.
Keep that woman, God bless her 😁
She have any sisters?
I've played a bunch of both guitars, and I own a D-18. This is the first comparison video where the D-18 sounded like a D-18. Listening to RUclips with Firefox through a Pioneer SC-91 into Sennheiser HD 580 Precision headphones. Under these conditions, the two guitars really sound very, very similar and I find myself making distinctions based on having played them, not listening to them. D-28 plays a little crisper, feels a bit more "solid" somehow like it's not giving into the music. Listening here, I feel like that comes as as more highs in the D-28. I am also of the opinion that D-28 holds up better over time. My D-18 has seen the shop a LOT.
Interesting anecdote, I haven't heard that before. Thanks for sharing with us.
The only two dreadnought’s you’ll ever need.
gibson j-45
Any tips on what to do in regard to a D18 with a few hairline fractures that sounds fantastic2005 made in USA
Take it to a martin authorized repair shop and have them look at it
@@user-qx3tr6ex7u Thanks Mate
I own both of these guitars. The D28 is a 2019 and the D18 is a 2020. The D28 came from the factory with the action high enough to use it as a lap steel string with a slide (lol) and the D18 action was so low out of the box, it plays like an electric (think high end Taylor action). The truss rod has been turned slightly and the saddle adjusted on the D28 but it will simply never play like the D18 and I’m not sure why. I love them both but the D18 sings to me when I play it and even with mediums on it, it’s so dang easy to play. Either my D28 is a one off or Martin sets them up far different at the factory.
@ if I had to guess, GC had the D28 in a warehouse far too damp and the top swelled. It seems to be getting some better now that I have the heat in the house on and I’ve invested in the two way humidification system which is also helping. Sadly, a “new guitar” hanging in a store can be far from new/factory condition. Only time will tell.
I’ll play the politician on this video, I like them both 😊
No matter which, just play that son of a bitch.
Nice playing! That D-28 sounds sweet!
To me IMHO? Both........you gotta have both. Total opposite of the EQ spectrum. Which is why they're both great!
Which of the two do you prefer?
Tough call. I guess I'm more of a d18 guy if you put a gun to my head
@@ianmeadows6351 Have you played the d18 modern yet?
Ian I know they are two different price points and build quality but sound wise how would you compare the D18 with the Eastman E1D? They sound really similar in your videos!
If given the choice, I'd take the d18 every time. It just feels right to me. But if I was strapped for cash (which I usually am), I'd be totally fine with the Eastman
@@ianmeadows6351 yeah definitely take D18 any day of week but your video of the Eastman made me buy one and was interested in comparison. When covid passes I'm getting a D18 though
I recently bought an Eastman E1D because I can’t afford a D18. I’m very happy with the Eastman. It’s warm and earthy. I’m getting used to the wider 1.75 inch nut. I set it up - both saddle and nut - right after I got it and it plays and feels great.
First time I played a Eastman E1D I knew It was the one. Great guitar for the price. Hard to find a guitar under 600 bucks with a Ebony bridge and fingerboard.
Did I miss it or did you not say which is which?
Tony Wall if you know your Martins you can easily tell them apart. 👌🏼👍🏼
GK MASTER LOCKSMITHS which had what to do with my comment? If you know your Martin's your not watching a video comparing them now are you?
Tony Wall I own a D18 👍🏼 You asked did I miss something when it came to which guitar was which! It states D18 vs D28 so you would just know the D18 comes first. My comment was saying if you know your Martins, you can easily tell them apart. All the best 👌🏼
GK MASTER LOCKSMITHS so if you had not replied you wouldn't have changed a damn thing. Other than you would still have your dignity.
Tony Wall if you say so.....
Two pricey yet great guitars. My preference is the D18. It has the tone I’m looking for. The D28 is great too but not the tone I’m after.
Both are classics. I like the D18 myself
Always the 28 but you have to have an 18 when you’re feeling warm and fuzzy.
D18 rules.
String gauge?
They’re Martin 2.0 13’s if they’re from the factory.
D-18 everyday and twice on Sunday's!!!😂
My eyes and wallet like the D-18. My ears like D-28 a bit more.
They are too far away from each other for me to discern any differences
18
18 more balanced
D18
I got a d18 ; so disappointed, very thin sounding and lacking in volume
What ? Must have bought a fake lol
Then you got a lemon or something there's absolutely nothing thin about a d18. Get one with an Addy top and fs ge bracing if it's that much of an issue. But the regular d18 is a fine guitar
18 for studio and live performance. 28 for strummers.
18.
0:39 3:45