This is a terrific overview of both guitars - played well to accentuate the differences, but without the usual overblown theatrics that poison most RUclips reviews. The presentation, audio and overall information is excellent. You've clearly shown the tonal differences between the two instruments, which isn't easy with RUclips compression, etc. Terrific stuff.
Agree - I'm not a newbie on this topic and really heard the (well known) difference illustrated. For people with a fresh interest in tonewoods, this guide is superb.
I recently bought the D-18 for that reason. When I compared them the D-28 had much more treble in the mix. I am so confused when they say D-28 is warmer.
D28 is more neutral sounding and with fuller bass and almost scooped mids giving the impression of warmer whereas the D18 is very even, balanced making it sound more clear and distinct. I lean towards D18 but am very happy with my D16gt (gloss top).
I’ve been watching all of these comparison videos and thought I’d get the D18, but today I played both of them in person and got the D28. Here’s why: The D18 sounds great, it has a really nice warm woody sound, but it occupies mostly mid range, which is the same range as vocals. The D28 had a deep bass and a trebly sparkle while leaving the mid range for available for vocals, and no matter how hard you strum, it never gets muddy. It is also the more popular of the 2 and thus has higher demand if you need to resell. Hope this helps!
its funny because people say the opposite that the 18 is great with vocals and works well but that the 28 is not great with vocals and is better with flatpicking and instumental stuff...... we all interpret things differently and have our own opinions lol
@@gimpyjwilliams interesting, the videos I’ve watched reviewing the two say the opposite. Either way, if you are interested, I’d recommend playing them in person side by side. It changed my mind when I did. But you can’t go wrong with either!
Yep totally agreed with your conclusions! D-18 can cut better through a band mix while... well the D-28 is jus like a Steinway piano. In a guitar duo both are the perfect combo! In my dreams... and i hope in my future... i want a D-28!
Having tried both, I would say that the differences are minimal but noticeable when played more "roughly". The D18 is a bit more boomy and less forgiving than the D28. I chose the D28 because every strum or picking seemed more balanced to my ears. Both are superb instruments. Given the choice, I would have taken them both home!
Excellent video. Using high quality mics makes all the difference in hearing the voice of each guitar. The D-18 is an ensemble instrument. It felt like someone would begin to sing and/or the rest of the band would come in with the D-18. It's voicing stands on it's own for solo instrumental work, as well. The D-28 has a full sonic sound, almost orchestral, it would have been intrusive for any other voices to join in. I love the Martin sound, wheter risewood or mahogany, and agree that a person should have both. You can find other guitar makers that compete in sound quality with mahogany, but nobody can can produce a rosewood sound like Martin Guitars.
Have you ever tried or listened to the YAMAHA LL16?! I'm not saying that it's better than the D28. But for about 2000 €/$ less than the D28, all solid wood, with an Engleman spruce top and that Indian rosewood back and sides, sounding like if you're playing within an iceberg mountain... yes, it can compete!!! It's the best bang for the buck out there. I've payed 450 €/$ second hand, and it's worth 4 or 5 times more. A guitar beast! I'll not say the same about the D18 and the Yamaha FG5. Nothing can beat a good mahogany back and sides Martin!!!
I regrettably traded in my D-28 a few years ago. I loved that guitar and didn’t think anything could compare, but I’m all for mahogany and prefer the D-18 in this video. So, excited to get an 18 at some point. Can’t believe how much the price went up since I first purchased. The 1937 D-18 is the dream..
@@sc12100 the Guild is a pretty good sounding guitar. Plays easier than the Martin und has a big boomy warm sound. It is only build by a few persons in oxnard. Only wanted to play a Mahagony guitar that’s why I Switched to Martin I think it’s also better suited for singer songwriter stuff, because the more trebles and balanced bright tone.
If you get a chance (if you haven't) check out a Guild D-40 preferable a vintage one in the 70s or early 80s. They are akin to the guild version of the d18 and are absolutely incredible. Had to trade mine a 11 years ago for a vehicle when we were in a tough spot right before wife and I got married. May buy another, but got a nice martin now and a 19 j45 standard. Guild d40
I couldn't decide between the two, so I bought both. D28 and a custom shop D14F sinker mahogany. The sinker hog is the best guitar I've ever heard, and gets played the most.
I was fortunate to own a Martin OOO 28 and OOO 18 both made around '96. Unfortunately I was suspended from my job, and fearing unemployment I sold them both. I wish I didn't. One must have a mahogany and a rosewood guitar and if possible they should be Martins, whatever the style. Good video. I also liked the one you did with the '52 D 18 and a new one. I surprised myself by preferring the new one! Keep up the great reviews.
the d18 sounds more pleasant to my ears with a drier, crisper, more acoustic sound than the d28. The d28 is louder and has more bass and more shimmery. Both excellent sounding guitars in their own right. I own both models and would give the edge to the d18. It is also much lighter and thus more comfortable than the d28. Also, it's $500 less.
In my opinion one would have to hear the comparison in real time to really tell, kind of difficult via phone and even ear buds. I played both before I chose my D18e, but guitars change with time.
Really great video. I would be interested to know which D28 you are playing. Between these guitars, I think the 18 sounds slightly better. I own two 1937 Authentics- a D18 authentic 1937, made in 2006, and a D28 authentic 1937 Brazilian, made in 2007. I have played the other authentic series tone woods, and they all sound muddy. The Brazilian is very rare, but it is the most outstanding guitar I have ever owned. The 1937 D18 authentic is unbelievable though, and I believe beats any D28 that is not Brazilian.
For strumming, I like the D18 better. For fingerstyle and flatpicking, I like the D28 better. Perhaps this means that I should own both, but I'm nonetheless very happy with my HD-28. I still want something in mahogany, of course.
Always wanted a D-28 my whole life til the day came to buy my D-28 and I compared it side by side with a D-18 and the D-18 just stood out to me as the guitar I had to have. Would one day love either a D-28 or HD-28 might go the used route.
I did the opposite! Lol I played them all at locations all around. Hunted them. The one that cane to me was a used 28. Amazing guitar. I found out that they are not all the same either! Several floor guitars at music stores were not comparable even though they said d-28, d-18 whatever. Besides damage or flaws, they didn’t play or sound right. Not Martin right. If I had not waited a long time and acquired lots of different experiences, I would have bought a much poorer guitar
I think it depends on the situation. Alone, I'd go for the D18 to accentuate my vocals. If there's another guitar and it sounds a bit more on the low end, and that's the desired tone, I'll grab a D28. My uncle and I play together and sing bluegrass and he plays a D28 and I use a Takamine Koa and they accentuate one another great. But I am buying a D18 to compliment his D28 better.
D18 for me because it’s balanced and all the strings ring out so clearly. The D28 sounds a bit muffled or muddy and not as punchy compared. They both have nice tone but the D18 ticks more boxes. I’ve owned a D28 in the past but now have a D18 modern deluxe to which I’m very happy about.
When engineers record a D18 it stays very close to the original recording. When they record a D28 they tweak the track to make it sound more like a D18. If a D18 sounds like the acoustic you’re used to hearing in recordings, that’s because it probably is!
Go into the store & play them. Even the same model of guitar can sound very different. I played 5 of the same model HD-28 before I decided on the best one for me.
Both sound great but I do prefer the sound of the D-28. It seems mellower and resonates to my liking. I am also interested in recording some guitar. What microphones are you using here? Also I have heard/read that your placement of two of the same mics is best and also that two different mics placed one facing the bridge and one facing 12th fret is better. Is there a setup which is better or are there reasons for using each one. I am aware of phase difference cautions and know how to correct for that.
In this demo, the D18 sounded fuller, "stronger". The D28 sounded more "stringy", "weaker"...."banjo-y." I preferred the D18 (maybe listening on my smartphone with inexpensive earplugs makes a difference too, eh?) I'd want to try them out first, BUT!! ...if I was on Mars and had to choose only one based on what I'm hearing, the D-18.
I personally like the sound of the d18 better but I bought a d28 because I liked the way it sounded and looked. The east Indian rosewood with the white binding is beautiful. Vs the mahogany and black binding on the d18. Which is also a great looking guitar. I just personally like the look of the d28 more.
@el34glo59 I think the D-18 plays a little bit louder. Which makes sense. Mahogany is a better tone wood. Don't get me wrong, the D-28 sounds fantastic. But if you're looking for sound and sound only, you won't beat the D-18. If you're looking for sound and looks, I'd definitely say go with the D-28. But that's just my personal opinion. You may like the way the D-18 looks more than the D-28. If you're trying to decide between the two, I'd suggest really doing your homework. They're some really good video's here on RUclips that do a great comparison of the two. Use a pair of good headphones and listen to them played back to back. Neither of these guitars will disappoint you. I personally was willing to sacrifice a tad bit of sound volume to get the beautiful rosewood. Just remember, Martin is not going to put their name on a guitar that's not Martin quality and sound. Heck, the $500 to $600 X series are fantastic sounding Martin's. The tops on the X series guitar's are the same as the D-18 and D-28. They all use a stika spruce top. The back and sides on the X series are made of HPL. (High Pressure Laminate), which is super strong. I'm telling you they're the best sounding guitar for the money. I had a DX-1 years ago. I lost it when I got in a financial bind. I literally quit playing until I could afford another Martin. Which took a few years. Nothing else I played that I could afford sounded anything close to my DX-1. Until I got my D-28. I apologize for rambling on. I hope I helped you out in some way. If you end up getting one, let me know what you decided on.
@@danielallen7384 Just because the tops are both sitka spruce does not mean they are anywhere close to the same quality of wood. The superior pieces get used for the higher end guitars. All wood is not the same, even within species. The x series may be decent guitars but they are terrible Martins. Heck, even the Road Series are not a good representation. I believe Martins start at the 15 series and up.
@michaelh7125 If you think the X-series Martin's are terrible guitars, it's apparent you've never played one. Or held one for that matter. Martin isn't going to put their name on a "terrible" guitar. Your comment is absolutely ridiculous. Also, I don't need you to explain to me the differences in the types of wood used on acoustic or electric guitars. I've researched and studied guitars going on 20 years. You claim a guitar is terrible if it's not constructed from 100% wood tells me you don't know much about guitars. I've played, and I've heard guitars made from all different types of material. Check out the Fender guitar that was made from corrugated cardboard. It's a fantastic sounding guitar. You can find it here on RUclips. You should do more research before leaving such a ridiculous comment.
@@danielallen7384 I have played a couple x series guitars, no resonance, no overtones. I know exactly what I am talking about cheerleader. Also, out of the two of us who said this: ' The tops on the X series guitar's are the same as the D-18 and D-28. They all use a stika spruce top'. That is a ridiculous statement, using your wording. Run along fool, I have tired of you already.
They are both great. I’ve played both, and I definitely prefer the D18. I think it sounds much better in this comparison, as well, it sounds warmer. The D28 sounds a little bit too “bright” for me. It’s still a warm guitar, I understand, but it just has too much treble If that makes sense, I don’t really like it.
When the D28 is played I get this feeling that it is restrained a bit. Maybe with age it loosens up. The D18 sounds warm and lush but the notes are not quite as distinct. The D28 seems more accurate. I would take either one of these guitars in a minute and be in guitar heaven!
The D18 sounds like its being played through a good acoustic amp, even though its not. I feel that the mid tones are crisper and clearer, almost amplified sounding. The D28 seems to ring out more with chords, a little fuller bodied, almost 12 string guitar like. At least thats my take/ear. Both two of the best guitars of all time.
Glad somebody else has mentioned that. I have a 000-16 and a HD-28, and I much prefer the scent of the mahogany. I'm tempted to sell both and exchange for a D-18 as I reckon it's good try them all in my life. Tricky as Chris F. Martin handed the HD-28 to me, so it has a special value.
D-18 for me and I actually just got one a month ago... I absolutely love it !!! Never been a D-28 fan for some reason . My other Martin which is a rosewood dread , I started out with an HD-28 and wound up with a D-41 a couple of weeks later . I know the D-28 is different than the HD-28 but I’ll still take my D-41 over both . Not that the D-28 isn’t a great guitar cause it is... 😃
So the D-41 is your favourite of them all? I've fallen in love with the look of that guitar. It costs quite a bit more but I'm tempted to push the boat out as a one acoustic guitar to rule them all!
@@WS-bk7uu it’s an amazing guitar ! The older it gets the more beautiful it sounds . I’ve had mine now for over 6 years and it’s mind blowing. It sounded great when I got it and it just gets better with age , just like fine wine... I’ve been blessed to add the D-18 recently, now I think I have the best of both worlds. A fantastic rosewood dread and a mahogany dread ... The dynamic duo... 🤩 If you can push it I say go for it !!! But keep in mind mine is the standard bracing that is pre 2018 , The current model looks great but it sounds different. It sounds way closer to the HD-28 which is not my flavor . You may like it however with the new forward shifted bracing . The D-18! With the forward shifted bracing sounds amazing but I don’t think it works too well on the D-41. That is my personal opinion. You need to play a new D-41 and a pre 2018 so you can decide for yourself...
@@supermarioxs1 That's great, sounds like you now have the best of both worlds. I'm edging towards the D18 because of the mahogany. I live in the tropics (SE Asia) and the humidity is really high year round and I've heard that mahogany tends to hold up better to humidity compared to rosewood.
D28s have a fuller sound around the notes. And air around them that's thicker. But you hear thw strings more. More metallic. They also have more bass and highs. A d18 has more clarity around the notes. More separation. But has a woody sound, instead of string sound. They also have more midrange That's why people get confused with statements like warm and bright. They're both warm and bright in their own right just in different ways The highs will be thicker ans rounder on a d28 while more snappy on a 18 also The 28 is warmer as far as thicker sounds. The 18 is more warm if you're talking the actual sound off each individual string. But still brighter Personally, for a large guitar, GP, dread etc, I'll always go mahogany B&S. Smaller guitars for finger style, Rosewood all day
D28 sounds spot on for Heart of Gold, which is what Neil Young played. The D28 is a better guitar for singing over as its less crisp and more muted. D18 is a purer, sharper sound. Both are amazing guitars and the sound is unmatched.
I like both. I would say the D-18 is more sonically pleasing, but the D-28 is more expressive. I would buy a D-18 for strumming and more upbeat music. The D-28 would be what I would use for darker music.
So fun! I love the d-28. The 18 seems warmly muddy in the mid range centric while the 28 separates the high and low like a great recording, you can hear the different ranges as separate parts played together while the 18 warmly blends them together by placing the earned up mid tone over everything.
Did a blind listen, my ears say: D28 is more neutral sounding with fuller bass and almost scooped mids making treble seem thinner and more brittle but giving sense of blended, washed yet unbalanced ringy tone due to less mids which may appear warmer, but listen with eyes closed and ears close, definitely more washed, blended unbalanced tone with missing mids and piercing treble. whereas the D18 is very even, balanced making it sound more clear, full and distinct across all ranges. Mahogany: warm, complete, rich, romantic. Rosewood: scooped mids, sounds like it's missing mids which is why singers often like them because the voice fills the missing mids. I lean towards D18 but am very happy with my D16gt (gloss top). BUT as people have stated, each is handmade and best listened to in person in same place.
Great comparison! I prefer the D-18. It's clearer and more focused, more out front compared to the D-28. Thanks again for a very helpful video!
Thanks for actually dividing the video into chapters. It helps sooooo much! Seems like 99% of RUclips guitarists don't know how to do this.
This is a terrific overview of both guitars - played well to accentuate the differences, but without the usual overblown theatrics that poison most RUclips reviews. The presentation, audio and overall information is excellent. You've clearly shown the tonal differences between the two instruments, which isn't easy with RUclips compression, etc. Terrific stuff.
Agree - I'm not a newbie on this topic and really heard the (well known) difference illustrated.
For people with a fresh interest in tonewoods, this guide is superb.
I have both and recently just picked up my d-18 again and wow more warm sounding might be my favorite over the 28
I’m thinking just the opposite - the D18 sounds Warm & Deep, the D28 sounds crisp & open. I prefer the D18.
The d28 is significantly warmer tbh
So did i.
I recently bought the D-18 for that reason. When I compared them the D-28 had much more treble in the mix. I am so confused when they say D-28 is warmer.
D28 is more neutral sounding and with fuller bass and almost scooped mids giving the impression of warmer whereas the D18 is very even, balanced making it sound more clear and distinct. I lean towards D18 but am very happy with my D16gt (gloss top).
Think he got it backward
I’ve been watching all of these comparison videos and thought I’d get the D18, but today I played both of them in person and got the D28. Here’s why: The D18 sounds great, it has a really nice warm woody sound, but it occupies mostly mid range, which is the same range as vocals. The D28 had a deep bass and a trebly sparkle while leaving the mid range for available for vocals, and no matter how hard you strum, it never gets muddy. It is also the more popular of the 2 and thus has higher demand if you need to resell. Hope this helps!
thanks for sharing this!
its funny because people say the opposite that the 18 is great with vocals and works well but that the 28 is not great with vocals and is better with flatpicking and instumental stuff...... we all interpret things differently and have our own opinions lol
@@gimpyjwilliams interesting, the videos I’ve watched reviewing the two say the opposite. Either way, if you are interested, I’d recommend playing them in person side by side. It changed my mind when I did. But you can’t go wrong with either!
@@vjensen56 yeah that’s one thing we can all agree on they’re both awesome
Thank you for an extremely helpful video! I’m trying to decide between rosewood and mahogany and this video really helped solidify my choice!
To be the low end of both the d18 and the d28 is the same, but the d28s high is scooped out. Check out take 4 starting at 3:20, very clear.
The D28 seem to be louder on the lower end, the D18 seemed clearer in the midtones. I'd love to have either one.
Terrific comparison. I am considering either of those, and also a J45 standard.
D18 for me. It has more resonance and the tone just sounds more quality. The 28 sounds a bit tight and too bright in some instances.
Outstanding job, among a very few of the best, most informative D-28 v D-18 demo comparisons.
The D 18 cuts top sounds with more definition!
Best comparison I’ve seen! Thank you for playing different styles other than flat picking. Rosewood for me
I bought a 2021 D-18 and can't hardly put it down. K&K mini, Fishman Loud Box amp and an Origin Effects Magma 57 for EQ. It is quite the guitar.
Fck! I have exactly the same gear!! Super
Yep totally agreed with your conclusions! D-18 can cut better through a band mix while... well the D-28 is jus like a Steinway piano. In a guitar duo both are the perfect combo!
In my dreams... and i hope in my future... i want a D-28!
Very nicely made comparison. Will come back several times and listen again. 🙏😊
Having tried both, I would say that the differences are minimal but noticeable when played more "roughly". The D18 is a bit more boomy and less forgiving than the D28. I chose the D28 because every strum or picking seemed more balanced to my ears. Both are superb instruments. Given the choice, I would have taken them both home!
The D18 for me sounds warmer, deeper, more resonant, more balanced and richer.
Same for me
Definitely not deeper, nor more resonant
@@el34glo59Definitely so.
I am favoring the D 18 but after opening up over years of playing the D 28 May win.
Thanks your video is really useful and the time stamps really help to give us a sense of the differences in sound
Excellent video. Using high quality mics makes all the difference in hearing the voice of each guitar. The D-18 is an ensemble instrument. It felt like someone would begin to sing and/or the rest of the band would come in with the D-18. It's voicing stands on it's own for solo instrumental work, as well. The D-28 has a full sonic sound, almost orchestral, it would have been intrusive for any other voices to join in.
I love the Martin sound, wheter risewood or mahogany, and agree that a person should have both. You can find other guitar makers that compete in sound quality with mahogany, but nobody can can produce a rosewood sound like Martin Guitars.
Have you ever tried or listened to the YAMAHA LL16?! I'm not saying that it's better than the D28. But for about 2000 €/$ less than the D28, all solid wood, with an Engleman spruce top and that Indian rosewood back and sides, sounding like if you're playing within an iceberg mountain... yes, it can compete!!!
It's the best bang for the buck out there. I've payed 450 €/$ second hand, and it's worth 4 or 5 times more. A guitar beast!
I'll not say the same about the D18 and the Yamaha FG5. Nothing can beat a good mahogany back and sides Martin!!!
I know it says D28 has more deep and bass but , for me D18 sounds like it has more mellowness . I would definitely look out for the 18 for sure !
Great review! I enjoyed how you played multiple styles to display the versatility in sound of both Martins
I regrettably traded in my D-28 a few years ago. I loved that guitar and didn’t think anything could compare, but I’m all for mahogany and prefer the D-18 in this video. So, excited to get an 18 at some point.
Can’t believe how much the price went up since I first purchased.
The 1937 D-18 is the dream..
traded my guild d55 for this D18 a month ago! love it
How did you like your D55 before you traded it?
@@sc12100 the Guild is a pretty good sounding guitar. Plays easier than the Martin und has a big boomy warm sound. It is only build by a few persons in oxnard. Only wanted to play a Mahagony guitar that’s why I Switched to Martin I think it’s also better suited for singer songwriter stuff, because the more trebles and balanced bright tone.
If you get a chance (if you haven't) check out a Guild D-40 preferable a vintage one in the 70s or early 80s. They are akin to the guild version of the d18 and are absolutely incredible. Had to trade mine a 11 years ago for a vehicle when we were in a tough spot right before wife and I got married. May buy another, but got a nice martin now and a 19 j45 standard. Guild d40
I couldn't decide between the two, so I bought both. D28 and a custom shop D14F sinker mahogany. The sinker hog is the best guitar I've ever heard, and gets played the most.
I done the same
Get D-18 with Adi Top and Sinker Mahogany back and side
Yeah I'm off the sinker bandwagon. Used to love it. But it's got a metallic sheen sometimes that I can't stand anymore
and now 2 years later my preference just based on the pure tonality of the guitars has shifted to the mellower D-28, which I hope to aquire very soon
I have a 2006 D-18 and would love to own a D-28. both great Guitars.
for the fingerstyle music I play mostly the D-18 wins hands down - clear, crisp, and still plenty on the bottom end
Heart of gold!! Sounds great
Yes, please.
I like that rosewood 28 growl on stage and a mahogany in recording and home. Can I choose both?
I was fortunate to own a Martin OOO 28 and OOO 18 both made around '96. Unfortunately I was suspended from my job, and fearing unemployment I sold them both. I wish I didn't. One must have a mahogany and a rosewood guitar and if possible they should be Martins, whatever the style. Good video. I also liked the one you did with the '52 D 18 and a new one. I surprised myself by preferring the new one! Keep up the great reviews.
Agreed. Rosewood imo is better for a smaller guitar
the d18 sounds more pleasant to my ears with a drier, crisper, more acoustic sound than the d28. The d28 is louder and has more bass and more shimmery. Both excellent sounding guitars in their own right. I own both models and would give the edge to the d18. It is also much lighter and thus more comfortable than the d28. Also, it's $500 less.
Was thinking of trading my 2016 D18 in for a D28 but after this i think I'll keep it.
Great demo!
You should also compare an HD28 with a D18. Same build specs minus the backs and sides being different tone woods.
Then add to comparison D-18 with Adi Top and Sinker Mahogany back and side
@@RahulSharma_JaiMataDi
What point would that make ?
@@sc12100 I mean to say when comparing add the comparison D-18 with Adi Top and Sinker Mahogany back and side
In my opinion one would have to hear the comparison in real time to really tell, kind of difficult via phone and even ear buds. I played both before I chose my D18e, but guitars change with time.
Really great video. I would be interested to know which D28 you are playing. Between these guitars, I think the 18 sounds slightly better. I own two 1937 Authentics- a D18 authentic 1937, made in 2006, and a D28 authentic 1937 Brazilian, made in 2007. I have played the other authentic series tone woods, and they all sound muddy. The Brazilian is very rare, but it is the most outstanding guitar I have ever owned. The 1937 D18 authentic is unbelievable though, and I believe beats any D28 that is not Brazilian.
d-28s always sounded cloudy in the low midrange to me.
The d-18 Sounds brighter, which is great. The D-28 sounds a little more forgiving for playing.. and the 28 has better voicing, and a bit quieter
For strumming, I like the D18 better.
For fingerstyle and flatpicking, I like the D28 better.
Perhaps this means that I should own both, but I'm nonetheless very happy with my HD-28. I still want something in mahogany, of course.
I have both... 58' D18 & 59' D28... U make an excellent observation..
Same conclusion I had after playing t Ben both back to back. Best to have both, but if only one I prefer the D28.
Excellent A/B ^ which means it only shows you need them both.
In this video I prefer the D-18, but in person I prefer the HD-28.
I prefer the D18 to the D28. I have a D18 on the way and it will arrive in a few days. One excited man here to say the least
D18 sounds better to me here. But I have a feeling in the room the D28 would sound much better.
Bingo
D18 clarity for recording, D28 for live playing enjoyment.
Thanks love them both! What song at 1:12? I know it but can't place it
Heart of Gold
Id like to say this helped me. But now I'm thinking I need a D18 to go with my D28. Maybe, you helped me after all. Thanks!😂
Always wanted a D-28 my whole life til the day came to buy my D-28 and I compared it side by side with a D-18 and the D-18 just stood out to me as the guitar I had to have. Would one day love either a D-28 or HD-28 might go the used route.
I did the opposite! Lol I played them all at locations all around. Hunted them. The one that cane to me was a used 28. Amazing guitar. I found out that they are not all the same either! Several floor guitars at music stores were not comparable even though they said d-28, d-18 whatever. Besides damage or flaws, they didn’t play or sound right. Not Martin right. If I had not waited a long time and acquired lots of different experiences, I would have bought a much poorer guitar
Good illustration that it's best to go with an open mind. I was fixed on a D28/HD28/D35 but on reflection should have compared with the D18.
I think it depends on the situation. Alone, I'd go for the D18 to accentuate my vocals. If there's another guitar and it sounds a bit more on the low end, and that's the desired tone, I'll grab a D28. My uncle and I play together and sing bluegrass and he plays a D28 and I use a Takamine Koa and they accentuate one another great. But I am buying a D18 to compliment his D28 better.
D18 for me because it’s balanced and all the strings ring out so clearly. The D28 sounds a bit muffled or muddy and not as punchy compared. They both have nice tone but the D18 ticks more boxes. I’ve owned a D28 in the past but now have a D18 modern deluxe to which I’m very happy about.
When engineers record a D18 it stays very close to the original recording. When they record a D28 they tweak the track to make it sound more like a D18.
If a D18 sounds like the acoustic you’re used to hearing in recordings, that’s because it probably is!
Nicely done
Do they have the same size?
Go into the store & play them. Even the same model of guitar can sound very different. I played 5 of the same model HD-28 before I decided on the best one for me.
Very very nice sound comparaison 👍
Both sound great but I do prefer the sound of the D-28. It seems mellower and resonates to my liking. I am also interested in recording some guitar. What microphones are you using here? Also I have heard/read that your placement of two of the same mics is best and also that two different mics placed one facing the bridge and one facing 12th fret is better. Is there a setup which is better or are there reasons for using each one. I am aware of phase difference cautions and know how to correct for that.
Agree with your conclusions but there is many guitars that can replace a d18 but not many that fill in for a d28.
Are you using the same strings ? gauge/types ?
In this demo, the D18 sounded fuller, "stronger". The D28 sounded more "stringy", "weaker"...."banjo-y."
I preferred the D18 (maybe listening on my smartphone with inexpensive earplugs makes a difference too, eh?)
I'd want to try them out first, BUT!! ...if I was on Mars and had to choose only one based on what I'm hearing, the D-18.
Is hidden glue- VTS and ADI top realy worth it? I basically only fingerpick without picks and brush-strum in between (Flicking). Thanks
nope
@@MrAndCad why!?
Hide glue absolutely is. IDC what anyone says in here. Vts, not necessary but more of a different tone choice.
The D18 does sound much more crisp. I've had a D28 for quite a while now, and I think I'd really like to have a D18. They both have their place.
I personally like the sound of the d18 better but I bought a d28 because I liked the way it sounded and looked. The east Indian rosewood with the white binding is beautiful. Vs the mahogany and black binding on the d18. Which is also a great looking guitar. I just personally like the look of the d28 more.
So you liked the way it sounded but think the d18 sounds better?
@el34glo59 I think the D-18 plays a little bit louder. Which makes sense. Mahogany is a better tone wood. Don't get me wrong, the D-28 sounds fantastic. But if you're looking for sound and sound only, you won't beat the D-18. If you're looking for sound and looks, I'd definitely say go with the D-28. But that's just my personal opinion. You may like the way the D-18 looks more than the D-28. If you're trying to decide between the two, I'd suggest really doing your homework. They're some really good video's here on RUclips that do a great comparison of the two. Use a pair of good headphones and listen to them played back to back. Neither of these guitars will disappoint you. I personally was willing to sacrifice a tad bit of sound volume to get the beautiful rosewood. Just remember, Martin is not going to put their name on a guitar that's not Martin quality and sound. Heck, the $500 to $600 X series are fantastic sounding Martin's. The tops on the X series guitar's are the same as the D-18 and D-28. They all use a stika spruce top. The back and sides on the X series are made of HPL. (High Pressure Laminate), which is super strong. I'm telling you they're the best sounding guitar for the money. I had a DX-1 years ago. I lost it when I got in a financial bind. I literally quit playing until I could afford another Martin. Which took a few years. Nothing else I played that I could afford sounded anything close to my DX-1. Until I got my D-28. I apologize for rambling on. I hope I helped you out in some way. If you end up getting one, let me know what you decided on.
@@danielallen7384 Just because the tops are both sitka spruce does not mean they are anywhere close to the same quality of wood. The superior pieces get used for the higher end guitars. All wood is not the same, even within species. The x series may be decent guitars but they are terrible Martins. Heck, even the Road Series are not a good representation. I believe Martins start at the 15 series and up.
@michaelh7125 If you think the X-series Martin's are terrible guitars, it's apparent you've never played one. Or held one for that matter. Martin isn't going to put their name on a "terrible" guitar. Your comment is absolutely ridiculous. Also, I don't need you to explain to me the differences in the types of wood used on acoustic or electric guitars. I've researched and studied guitars going on 20 years. You claim a guitar is terrible if it's not constructed from 100% wood tells me you don't know much about guitars. I've played, and I've heard guitars made from all different types of material. Check out the Fender guitar that was made from corrugated cardboard. It's a fantastic sounding guitar. You can find it here on RUclips. You should do more research before leaving such a ridiculous comment.
@@danielallen7384 I have played a couple x series guitars, no resonance, no overtones. I know exactly what I am talking about cheerleader. Also, out of the two of us who said this: ' The tops on the X series guitar's are the same as the D-18 and D-28. They all use a stika spruce top'. That is a ridiculous statement, using your wording. Run along fool, I have tired of you already.
They are both great. I’ve played both, and I definitely prefer the D18. I think it sounds much better in this comparison, as well, it sounds warmer.
The D28 sounds a little bit too “bright” for me. It’s still a warm guitar, I understand, but it just has too much treble If that makes sense, I don’t really like it.
It is hard to believe that the back and sides can make that noticeable difference!
When the D28 is played I get this feeling that it is restrained a bit. Maybe with age it loosens up. The D18 sounds warm and lush but the notes are not quite as distinct. The D28 seems more accurate. I would take either one of these guitars in a minute and be in guitar heaven!
Isn't the HD-28 a D-28 already loosened up?
Both are Superb guitars, Just a matter of personal preference...
The D18 sounds like its being played through a good acoustic amp, even though its not. I feel that the mid tones are crisper and clearer, almost amplified sounding. The D28 seems to ring out more with chords, a little fuller bodied, almost 12 string guitar like.
At least thats my take/ear. Both two of the best guitars of all time.
I was thinking of getting a D28 but after watching this video i think i prefer the D18.
D-18 if you’re alone singing or just playing. Fuller frequencies especially in mids.
D-28 in a band with another guitar - cuts through.
New mahogany smells so good out of the box. D18 for me.
Glad somebody else has mentioned that. I have a 000-16 and a HD-28, and I much prefer the scent of the mahogany. I'm tempted to sell both and exchange for a D-18 as I reckon it's good try them all in my life. Tricky as Chris F. Martin handed the HD-28 to me, so it has a special value.
Every time I try them I go home with a D28. Drop the big E string down to a D and hit a full throated D chord and it just growls.
D-18 for me and I actually just got one a month ago... I absolutely love it !!! Never been a D-28 fan for some reason . My other Martin which is a rosewood dread , I started out with an HD-28 and wound up with a
D-41 a couple of weeks later .
I know the D-28 is different than the HD-28 but I’ll still take my
D-41 over both . Not that the D-28 isn’t a great guitar cause it is... 😃
traded my guild d55 for this D18 a month ago! love it
So the D-41 is your favourite of them all? I've fallen in love with the look of that guitar. It costs quite a bit more but I'm tempted to push the boat out as a one acoustic guitar to rule them all!
@@WS-bk7uu it’s an amazing guitar ! The older it gets the more beautiful it sounds . I’ve had mine now for over 6 years and it’s mind blowing. It sounded great when I got it and it just gets better with age , just like fine wine... I’ve been blessed to add the D-18 recently, now I think I have the best of both worlds. A fantastic rosewood dread and a mahogany dread ... The dynamic duo... 🤩
If you can push it I say go for it !!!
But keep in mind mine is the standard bracing that is pre 2018 ,
The current model looks great but it sounds different. It sounds way closer to the HD-28 which is not my flavor . You may like it however with the new forward shifted bracing .
The D-18! With the forward shifted bracing sounds amazing but I don’t think it works too well on the D-41.
That is my personal opinion.
You need to play a new D-41 and a pre 2018 so you can decide for yourself...
@@supermarioxs1 That's great, sounds like you now have the best of both worlds. I'm edging towards the D18 because of the mahogany. I live in the tropics (SE Asia) and the humidity is really high year round and I've heard that mahogany tends to hold up better to humidity compared to rosewood.
D28s have a fuller sound around the notes. And air around them that's thicker. But you hear thw strings more. More metallic. They also have more bass and highs.
A d18 has more clarity around the notes. More separation. But has a woody sound, instead of string sound. They also have more midrange
That's why people get confused with statements like warm and bright. They're both warm and bright in their own right just in different ways
The highs will be thicker ans rounder on a d28 while more snappy on a 18 also
The 28 is warmer as far as thicker sounds. The 18 is more warm if you're talking the actual sound off each individual string. But still brighter
Personally, for a large guitar, GP, dread etc, I'll always go mahogany B&S. Smaller guitars for finger style, Rosewood all day
Hi great video!! Which one do you think would be better for a heavy strummer very rhythmic player in a Full band church setting?
Who also sings! Lol
In that case I would opt for the D18! Seems to lay a bit more naturally in the mix!
@@tonezone4745 @Stef Delbaere guitar
Thank you both! Will definitely look into it!
D28 sounds spot on for Heart of Gold, which is what Neil Young played. The D28 is a better guitar for singing over as its less crisp and more muted.
D18 is a purer, sharper sound.
Both are amazing guitars and the sound is unmatched.
To me, the D28 sounds a little more crisp and clear, the D18 a little more muted but both sound amazing
I have D-18 with Adi Top and Sinker Mahogany back and side is one of the best .... D-18 anyday
I like both. I would say the D-18 is more sonically pleasing, but the D-28 is more expressive. I would buy a D-18 for strumming and more upbeat music. The D-28 would be what I would use for darker music.
So fun! I love the d-28. The 18 seems warmly muddy in the mid range centric while the 28 separates the high and low like a great recording, you can hear the different ranges as separate parts played together while the 18 warmly blends them together by placing the earned up mid tone over everything.
D18 for my taste hands down. Sounds warmer and woody while the d28 sounds louder and crispy
i think mahogany sounds warmer than rosewood .. so, it's the other way around . . the d18 sound warmer than the d28 which sounds crispier ..😊
I’ll have the D28 please!
The D28 is a little brighter. The D18 is just a little muted..
I hear the D18 clean , deep to high, with even tones. The D28 sounds a bit muddy.
D18 !!! Is less beautiful but sounds way better !! I’m definitely a Mahogany guy
D28 is my dream guitar.
Did a blind listen, my ears say: D28 is more neutral sounding with fuller bass and almost scooped mids making treble seem thinner and more brittle but giving sense of blended, washed yet unbalanced ringy tone due to less mids which may appear warmer, but listen with eyes closed and ears close, definitely more washed, blended unbalanced tone with missing mids and piercing treble. whereas the D18 is very even, balanced making it sound more clear, full and distinct across all ranges. Mahogany: warm, complete, rich, romantic. Rosewood: scooped mids, sounds like it's missing mids which is why singers often like them because the voice fills the missing mids. I lean towards D18 but am very happy with my D16gt (gloss top). BUT as people have stated, each is handmade and best listened to in person in same place.
That's your rosewood positive? Scooped mids lol
Thinking of selling all my electrics to buy either one of these and just keep one guitar.
For recording purpose, nothing beats d-18
I wish they made the d18 with white binding lol
Both very nice but I just prefer the voice of the D18
For me it’s always the D 18🎉
The D-28 sounds dampened compared to the D-18. The D-18 seems to have more life projecting forth....
D-18 for me
D-18 all day
I have both. I prefer the d18
For me there's just so much better sound from the D28 than the D18. But I guess we all have our own preferences?
Great comparison, no winner. D18 for me today.
18
D-18
I quite agree with your comments. Great sound check. 18 for me.