D28 standard is rosewood back and sides. Just as the HD28. The 000-18 series is Mahogany back and sides. I’m not an expert but the D28 has always been rosewood back and sides with a spruce top. Maybe he just got confused.
Please don't spank me for this: I bought as a 17y/o in 1976 a new Martin D28 clone, an Ibanez Vintage 950 made in '75 ..... I still own it and pleases, not only myself. The sound ,& playability is topnotch. My 2 cnts & greetz from 🇳🇱
It all depends on your style and what you want from a guitar. I can count on one hand all the Gibson acoustics I've ever heard that could hold their own in a standard bluegrass context with Gibson's own mandolins and banjos. They are almost always never loud enough, and if they are, they don't have the punch, the certain required eq, to cut through well in that context. Those few that could were anomalies, happy accidents. Martin D18s and 28s deliver the goods when competing acoustically with loud Mastertone Banjos and F5 Mandolins. You need serious volume and cut with your full rich tone? Can't hear yourself over the dang banjo and fiddle? You need a Martin. But, if you're a singer songwriter type who just wants a sweet sounding box that feels good and sounds good for your voice and style, then a Gibson can be just the ticket. Also a fantastic studio tool because of all the iconic recordings of various Gibsons in rock, pop, and country music over the years. Gibsons can excel at sitting comfortably in just the right frequency range in a multi track mix with electric bass & guitar, keys, and drums.
I’ve owned both, and they both have pros and cons. My Hummingbird was more playable. It was easier for me to get around on the neck. I really learned how to play seriously on the Gibson. That being said, the mahogany sound is brighter that rosewood. My D28 had a very rich, warm sound, but it felt like I was playing on a 2x4 especially above the 4th or 5th fret, Martin has improved their necks some. The Martin complimented my vocals better, the Hummingbird was a bit easier to play. I wish I still had them both. I did not have them at the same time. And for what it’s worth, I currently own a D18 that’s the easiest of the 3 to play, but somewhere in between the two in sound. It really depends on what pleases you and what you’re going to be doing with the guitar. Hope this helps.
I have owned both guitars....I still have the Hummingbird...sold the Martin...These are two radically different guitars....RADICALLY different! ...Different name brands...different woods Hog vs Rosewood...different scale lengths, and different sized bodies...both made and braced different from eachother. These guitars are so different in fact, that they can not fairly be compared to eachother. I prefer the warmth and beauty of the Hummingbird..as well as the warm delicious Mahogany body it has. I find it sounds sweeter, and much better for singing with. The Hummingbird lays behind the human voice..instead of in front of it, upstaging it. The Martin in fine too but rosewood does not lend itself as freely to the human voice...being crisper, with more overtones, and louder, which can hide the subtle inflections of the human emotions behind the words of the song. The Hummingbird was designed for the human voice. It wins by a landslide in my view in respect to singing...But the D-28 is an excellent choice if you do not sing, and you want the louder crisper guitar with the extra vibratory overtones the rosewood provides.
You make a great point. To add to what you said...I think the D28 is better for recording. If you have a separate mic for your voice, I would choose the D28 for recording. But just one mic? The Hummingbird is probably a better choice for the reasons you mentioned.
I have both having just bought the HD 28 a few months ago. Still trying to love the Martin - great bass but doesn’t have the warm sweet tone of a Hummingbird. I may end up selling it but I’ll keep the faith for now
I’m going to get it serviced as action too high and strings a bit dead I think - bass is awesome but not getting balanced tone I’m looking for - hope I won’t end up selling it
The Hummingbird has a 24.75" scale, while the D-28 has a 25.4" scale--another difference that will significantly affect their sounds. Longer scale = tighter, more note separation. I've played both and wouldn't tend to cross-shop them. Both are very good at what they do.
Louis Lanier Thanks. I didn’t realize the scale length is different. Thanks for your input. That’s why I made this, I was hoping to hear other musicians options on either of these. They are both great but I lean towards the D28 Martin. The Hummingbird looks cooler.
Back in 2004 I tried both the Martin HD28 and the Gibson Hummingbird. I almost went with the Gibson as it rang bell like. Then I tried the Martin HD28. I decided at that moment to go with the Martin. It sang to me which is my main criteria for buying guitars.
Im the same way. I played i'd say 200 different guitars all brands from 99-10,000$ as i had a big budget and as soon as i picked up the particular d-28 i immediately knew that was the guitar i was going to buy. its a 2020 1937 aged ambertone d-28 and it is an absolute cannon
I sold my sixties Hummingbird back in the early eighties and bought a D18. The Gibson didn't project and sounded generally muddy. I much preferred the Martin. The Stones loved Hummingbirds but complained that once Gibson changed the construction (thicker tops? heavier bracing?) the sound was significantly compromised. It's highly subjective. A lot of folks love Taylors-- the ones I've played have sounded incredibly sterile to my ears.
I've heard other comparisons with better sound recordings and to me the Gibsons always seem to have more complex mid range than the Martins, which have a woodier sound. I own a Hummingbird Modern Classic and I find it much easier to play than any of the Martins I've tried. The Hummingbird is also a Mahogany Guitar whilst the Martin D-28 is Rosewood. A better comparison would have been the D-18. For the D-28 it might be a Taylor 810, which is also a high end Dreadnought with a Sitka Spruce top and Rosewood back and sides.
I own hummingbird true vintage and D41 .... love the hummingbird but the martin so crisp that i cannot put them in the same league. Martin all the way .....
D-28s have Rosewood Back & Sides. D-18s have mahogany back & sides. I would prefer either over a Hummingbird - by a long distance. I have both and I wouldn't personally spend money on a Hummingbird. Never cared for them. A Dove maybe - I do like the tone of Maple from time to time.
My 04 Hummingbird inspires me as much as my electrics after decades of playing! But it took forever for me to find a Gibson like that! I've played a lot of great Martins and think that's easier to bond with!
I know it's an old comment and I probably won't get a reply from the original guy... I always seem to get more definition on the higher strings from the shorter scale and chunkier bass from fhe longer scale. I guess it comes down to the eq profile you want. They're both killer in their EQ bracket
I have a 97 hummingbird and a 2004 D41. They sound almost the same to me except my Martin is twice as loud. I find my Gibson easier to play. May be the scale length. Or just me 😀
Volume is something you don’t really take under consideration until you stand in front of someone playing a Martin and realize how much louder they are than most acoustics.
And because of the 28 does have Indian rosewood it gives a Great sound the next grade it delivers when I want to go to a good sound I grab a studio guitar which is my mahogany acoustic or a
The Hummingbird has a higher tiny sound but has a wonderful sound. I like and own the Martin D28 a 2021 model. But I did make upgrades, I replaced the Corian nut, tusq saddle, plastic bridge pins. Installed unbleached real bone nut and saddle and bridge pins. Installed the LR Baggs Anthem SL pickup and added real bone strap button. The sound is more warmer and fuller plus sustain and clearer notes. I also use the Ernie Ball phosphor bronze medium gauge strings. My friend owns the Martin D45 says my D28 blows his D45 away.
I'd be more curious about how a D-18 compares in sound to a Hummingbird. It's hard to really tell anything about sound, though on most youtube vids, everything seems oddly compressed.
I don’t own either. But, I have 4 acoustic guitars of a different brand name - 2 with solid Rosewood back & sides and 2 with solid Mahogany. And I find myself playing the Rosewood more often. Of these 2 guitars in question, I would go for the Gibson Hummingbird. But, given my preference for Rosewood, I probably would get a custom Hummingbird with Rosewood back and sides. Which of these 2 do you prefer?
I played today and initially chose the D28 & HD28 over the Hummingbird because they seemed a bit more natural to me to play. However after an hour of singing, picking, finger picking doing runs, I kept picking up the hummingbird. To me after a bit of time playing after getting used to the neck the Hummingbird seemed more fluid to play. I have heard they don’t have enough punch as my style is more country/bluegrass but I sure don’t think so.
As people have pointed out below you couldn't get much more different in two square-shoulder dreadnought guitars. Scale length, woods, shape and bracing are all different. I have a 2008 D28, and if I were to get a Gibson it would be a J45 in the vintage spec. There's room for both if you're a professional musician or you are visited by guitar-playing friends often. Me, I get by with the one guitar.
Your comment was really not called for....No reason to be so mean. Obviously he didn't use a sound system as many do. It is a Livingroom demonstration that does put a different perspective to it.
Hummingbird any day, every day. The trapezoid inlays, the boxy top, wins in every way. The Martin is too plain looking and they are too ubiquitous in the guitar world. Gibson is king and the bird reigns.
New gibson's are like the Chinese version of your favorite toy it looks the part but they don't perform or take abuse in my opinion I've tried lots I was dead set on wanting a j45 or gibson dread I tried many and to be honest I hated them all they seemed terrible to play and the tone just wasn't there I have since bought 2 martin and about to buy my new dream guitar d-18 modern deluxe
Choose an acoustic guitar by looks alone. Smart! Gibson now makes imitation knock off Gibsons but hey who cares if they throw thousands of guitars in the ocean while Martin wastes nothing. The hummingbird looks more appealing. What a dumb comment. You're a Biden voter aren't you?
Wayne R I agree. The sound I did in this video didn’t turn out. I was just hoping for opinions based on hands on experience of who views. Thanks for your feedback. Cool Greatful Dead logo.
To begin with, they aren’t both mahogany. I believe the D18 is mahogany. The D28 is rosewood. The other commenters are right, you’re not using a good enough mic for this critical a comparison. As it stands, these are the two steel string acoustics I’ve owned. I was original owner of a 1974 D28 satin finish. I lost it in a pawn deal around 2014 or so, then when I had money replaced it with a 1978 Hummingbird I got at a local music store. Much to my surprise, I overall prefer the Hummingbird. I way prefer the neck. These days I mainly play by myself fingerpicking - bare fingers - and the balance is really nice for that. Also, the individual strings sing better. If you’re strumming, nothing mass produced beats a D28.
Hummingbird all the way; super easy to play, loud and real pretty. I've got a 2016 Standard and have played the D-28 several times - both are amazing guitars...comes down to personal preference (and the D-28 is Sitka top, Indian Rosewood back and sides 😉).
Hi Corky. I own both the J-15 and a Hummingbird True Vintage. I'll promise to do a video comparison of these two wonderful guitar. They are very different in both sound and feel.
The j15 maybe be a cheaper guitar. The j15 has more deep tone and drive. Then a Gibson dove or hummingbird. The j15 is a better guitar., if I was going to own a Gibson. The Martin D-16 line are better guitars for about the price range of the j15. May even be cheaper. A new d-16 starts around 1.400 to 1.500.
Hello Mike i have been ill with excitement because i soon can get the money to buy a dream guitar and i really love the hummingbird but i also like the lowden guitars but they seen to only be pickers, in your opinion how is a Hummingbird for picking ? At the moment i have a taylor 214ce dlx and a martin drs1 but iam bored of them at the moment lol p.s in your video i found the Hummingbird seemed more powerful and projected more but the martin seemed a bit dull.
Sambo Elguapo Thanks man! Honestly, if you are going to have the money to purchase a high end Acoustic. I highly recommend playing one first. Weather it’s a Gibson Hummingbird or any other brand, one Gibson hummingbird may sound different then another. I know Martin guitars to me sound more amazing as they age. The same with Gibson. My experience with both the Hummingbird and the Martin has been that both are really great regarding tone and feel bit they do play differently. I love them both. Weather you prefer one or the other should be In my opinion determined by you playing one hands on. You should connect with the guitar. The way it looks and feels to you. I love the look more of the Hummingbird and the time does have more boom but my Hummingbird is also older than my Martin so it’s aged more. I would say try playing a few hummingbirds. You can play three of them and only connect with one. The same goes with any brand. Take care and I hope You find the guitar you can bond with.
@@MikeFromNashville Well, not only do reverse belly bridges detach, they often crack between pin holes. I live and work in the North East, so we see a lot of dried out guitars and the reverse belly bridge can make a real mess out of the top if the owner is unaware of the top warp occurring. These bridges are no match for our lack of moisture in the cold months up here. The Martin bridges, on the other hand, do just fine, but if you ask me, D-18s and D-28s would be better served with the stripped ebony belly bridge from their 1 Series. This is the most advanced bridge Martin has ever made (IMHO). Not only does it have string ramps for better string break angle over the saddle, but the bridge pin holes follow the compensation line of the saddle, thus, allowing even break angle and even tension over the saddle. This is totally unlike a D-18 or D-28 bridge.
Hi. I decided that I wanted a top of the line guitar. I went to my friendly music store, and had in mind a Gibson J45. I was shocked that I was not crazy about it. i tried a hummingbird and the same. I was not too impressed I then tried a few others, and got to a Martin D-28. WOW that was it. It is sitting beside me now. The point I am trying to make is go mess around at the music store, but you have to play and feel it. Make sure you do. These things are getting very expensive.
I owned both, kept the Martin HD 28 VR. Not that the Gibson was bad, not at all. The Martin was sweater, more emotional. The Gibson was in your face to me.
Gibsons had thinner tops but thicker braces. Gives the guitar a "smoother" sound than the Martin. The mahogany back and sides also really calm it down. For playing bluegrass in 1st position I prefer Martin Dread's. For playing Mickey Baker Drop-2 chords above the 5th fret with jazzy chord solos I prefer a Gibson J45, but a 'bird will do just fine in a pinch.
I've got a 67 Country & Western Gibson gifted to me for my 8th birthday from my grandparents. I bought a nice 92 D16H 5 years ago to augment it. Wanted a D28 for the rosewood but found the H. The GIbson is not as loud. In the 60's Gibson utilized an adjustable bridge in addition to a small neck. Lots of folks deride these design characteristics as flaws. I do not. Some people put in a regular bridge that opens it up somewhat. I replaced mine with another adjustable one to keep it original. It has a great sound that only a 50 year old vintage guitar can give. The D16H is a bluegrass cannon that can only be appreciated by playing. Those models had forward shifted bracing reminiscent of the pre-war Martins. If you can find one buy it. They were very limited in production and Martin does not list them as a model in their registry. Both of these guitars are fine instruments that are worthy of ownership by anyone. I'm not a guitar snob. I appreciate any and all instruments that are well made and sound good.
Older Balder Wiser Thanks you certainly are wiser. It’s true about the 50 year old guitars tone. The more they age the better they sound. If you buy a new Martin or even a Gibson it will sound much better in 10 years when the wood opens up. Assuming they are belong played. Thanks for your feedback and for sharing. Much respect.
I hear you just fine. I played both many times over the years. I did have a D28 in my charge for a long time. I returned it. I did call a local store and had them sent me a Martin to my study to be tested. A 2017 D28 and it was much better than the D28 from the 1970's. I have had a long love affair with the Gibson. The Martin has been a part of my life all along and I bought the Martin.
I already had a Hummingbird, and recently got a D28. The Hummingbird is now up for sale. There is no comparison. The D28 is streets ahead for tone quality, roundness of sound, and playability. Played various examples of each, and D28 wins every time. I see the Hummingbird as a pretty collectors item, but as a musical instrument, it is inferior in virtually all respects.
Peter Mate I agree Peter! The Martin D28 is my primary guitar. It will only age like wine. Don’t get me wrong , Gibson Hummingbirds are great but there’s something about the tone of a D28 that to me feels and sounds perfect to my ears.
I’d like to know what your smoking , cause it must be some pretty good sheite to make that kind of statement … The D28 is a good git but to say it’s light years ahead of the bird is a pretty uneducated statement to say the least !!! I have 2 fine birds a J-45 standard and a Martin D-41 … in which my opinion is one of the best Martin’s save the D-45 if you want to pay double the $ of a D41 for a more blingy slightly chimier guitar …possibly? Onto Martin; I had , emphasis on had… a HD 28 , a D-18 standard and another Martin special edition for GC… That being said , There are only a couple of Martin’s I’d have. Ok , maybe a few but the D-28 is not one of them . If I was gifted a D-28 I’d take it of course … My personal experience and taste of course… The bird has a special chime unlike other guitars , I guess it’s an acquired taste of sound possibly but it is timeless!!! That’s why it’s one of the most recorded guitars next to the J-45! I started out as a Martin man but wound up being a Gibson guy or both but leaning towards the Gibson sound slightly… I still like Martin that’s why I still have my D-41 and will never part with it till I’m gone… cheers 🍻
I have a 2014 Hummingbird and a 2014 Martin D35. I love them both. both feel different and sound different. One thing O love about the Martin however is the ebony fingerboard. you can't beat an ebony board. But I wouldn't say I prefer the Martin. If I was just playing around the house, probably the Gibson. If I had to play a gig, probably the Martin. The Gibson has a pickup and amplifies well, not all acoustics do. The Martin has no pickup, and I prefer it that way. Also have a J-200, but it needs to have action lowered so I can't say much about it. Great guitar, tho. Also had a J-45 and loved it, great fingerpicking model, dry woody tone, light as a feather, easy to play. Man, just love them both (and all!). P.S. Used to own an 80s Washburn Prairie Song. Not made any more, ebony board, wood pickguard, goos as any acoutic I ever played.
I used to have a 1970 D28 (bought new) and more recently a 2000 Hummingbird. Most won't agree with me, but I really love the sound of the Hummingbird over the Martin. Both are great guitars IMO, but there's something special in the tamber of the Hummingbird (for me).
Both great guitars, similar in materials and construction, but I wouldn't choose either one. Another guitar with the similar materials and construction is the Guild D55.
I have a J45 and thinking what my next guitar will be to go with it. These are the two I'm looking at. I was hoping to like the D28, because I was thinking a rosewood guitar would compliment it. But to my ears, the Hummingbird wins.
I do like the D28 for playing leads (the individual notes are more defined) but if I'm playing a solo acoustic gig, I want the Hummingbird. If you make that a HD-28 it's a real hard choice - I personally don't always pick super hard, so the D28 will sound a little dull (overly bassy) where the HD-28 works for any playing style.
A 1969 Gibson Hummingbird would give the Martin a run for it’s money, but not this one from that year. Actually it would be difficult to find a Gibson Hummingbird, made in the last 30 years, that are as nice as the ones that came out in the 60’s.
Based on what you need . If you need some hard strum song, hummingbird give it lower sound . But if you need some melody and rich tone , you need d28. Both are good . But to me ... I choose d28 . Its relative
I just played a 2004 Gibson Hummingbird in a kind of pawn shop that is actually a high-profile operation. They also had a 1957 Gibson Les Paul-Gold top-re-issue in their window. I tried to play the Gibson Hummingbird, but whoever owned it didn’t take very good care of it at all, so I can’t make a sound judgment based on that guitar. I’ve played hummingbirds through the years, and I’ve played maybe one or two that I actually would spend the money to buy if I had it, but they were rare. When it comes to looks the Hummingbird kicks ass over the Martin for sure, but the Martin sound is superior to that of the Hummingbird, but this is a subjective point of view. I believe it’s very important to look and find the kind of guitar you want to buy, and play it first, because every guitar, whether it’s a Gibson or Martin, are not necessarily the same as the others that are made with that name and Company. I own a Martin HD-35-1989, and I’ve played a few over the years of that model and I have not found one that I like as much is the one that I own. This is not about loyalty to my guitar or the company that makes it, it’s simply that not all guitars are made or created the same, so if you’re going to spend two or three or $4000 on a guitar it is paramount that you go and play it for a while! Don’t order it online, unless it’s some great deal that would be foolish to pass up, but if it’s too play, it’s important to find one that strums the chords of your soul.
For my not so loud voice I prefer the Hummingbird it is not quite a bass and loud as the D 28 which over shadows my singing voice I have a Hummingbird from 1968 with an adjustable bridge my singing partner back then had a Martin D28 and when I played it I had to try and sing louder.
Sorry about the sound. I attempted to mic 🎤 them and directly connect it to one of those new Roland GO Mixers. That backfired. So I’m sorry about the sound. I have since figured out how to record amped and 🎤 guitars better. I run the audio now to an Alesis mixer then to the Roland go mixer. Moving forward audio is better.
A classic question .. However as was said here .. two different guitars with different woods, mojo and different places musically. Still it is the age old match up Id say. With that said I would take the Gibson Hummingbird .. as it is the best dreadnought / acoustic guitar I've ever heard. It sings.. it's sound is so deliciously sweet .. yet it has bump in the bottom end on certain notes and chords to give it that Gibson push and pull and it has a great strum sound. Now PLeeeeease don't misunderstand me.. the D28 is like.. Gold as well and has it's own thing too as we all know. It depends watcha like as they say. You are a fortunate man to have em BOTH! Jus Wow.
Not a good comparison. Sorry. Hog vs Rosewood have different characteristics. Personally, I like both for that reason. One sound goes better for one song or style. So having both to me me would cover the bases. Now if you do a D-18 against the Hummingbird or possibly J45. That would be a good fight. My D-16GT would compare.
Two great guitars although I would replace the D28 with an HD35 any day, it's similar but a whole dimension better in sound and depth. Based on the two presented here the Hummingbird is nicer and more versatile. Thanks.
At 0.41 you say they both have Mahogany bodies. They don't. A standard D28 is Rosewood not Mahogany. Do you mean a D18? What are you actually comparing? They are completely different instruments. The D28 (or D18 for that matter) would be a superior blue grass instrument, but a much closer performance comparison as Rock instruments .... to individual taste and preference. For example the Hummingbird has a shorter scale length if playability is ur thing. I don't get ur comparison, but thanks anyway for showing us ur beautiful instruments.
Depends a lot on what you are doing with the guitar. I have both. If I'm playing the guitar by itself, I prefer the deeper bass of the Martin. BUT, to accompany my singing - which is my usual gig - the 'Bird complements my voice. The D28 sound with my voice becomes too "tubby." Also, the 'Bird is a bit easier for me to play higher up the fretboard with barre chords. Both are set with the same height action/same strings.
I have both and also a D18. The D28 is not mahogany though. They are and always have been rosewood. The D18 however is mahogany. The Martin's also have a longer fretboard by about an inch. Both of these differences make them sound and respond differently. If I could only keep one it would be the D18, although it is a '74 and 25 years older than the others, it plays easier and sounds better to me. The age may affect that, not sure.
I own a Gibson Hummingbird and it sound lovely. Played a Martin hd 28 today and it's great too. Gibson is harder sounding and more highs. Martin is very soft sounding very "douce". Martin for me has a perfect romantic soft sound and Gibson is a more mean thing. I think I'll end up with both one day ;)
I have a Gibson Custom Rosewood Hummingbird and a Rosewood HD-28. I just like the Martin better, but both are fabulous sounding guitars. I am just lucky enough to be able to enjoy both.
Martins from that era are just ok, but their quality didn’t slip nearly as bad as Gibson and Fender’s did in the same time frame. Newer Martins are terrific instruments. I have a 2017 D28 reimagined and it’s a well-build and great sounding guitar.
My dad had always played Gibson guitars, was just his thing... he was truly a Gibson man...but saying that, I grew up in a home where there was always music and always a decent quality guitar around (that being some sort of Gibson guitar) here’s what I know to be a fact about the Gibson Hummingbird, first off. I love Gibson and Martin guitars, but growing up with the Hummingbird, I watched it age not just physically but also in its sound or should I say it’s Tonality...Gibson Guitars in general tend to achieve (what everybody in reviews refers to as “dark”) I call a muddy or real bass like mellow tone and very quiet...almost like someone turned the treble way down, and they become a guitar that can’t cut thru a stage type of mix (think Grand Ole Opry) unless of course you mic’ed them...but even amplified there’s just a lot of tone, I have found this to be true of a lot of “Vintage” Gibson guitars (notice I said vintage) even the famous Gibson 45, and songbirds do this too...so at any rate that’s my 2 cents, and I was there, Respectfully, JSM
Jeffery, Thank you for your input I'm in the market for a good Dred. I'm a lefty so I can't go to any music store and try out what I want. I've got it down to a Hummingbird, D35 or D28. With your info I just narrowed it down to the Martins Thank you
I have played the Gibson Hummingbird and the Martin D-28 and I like the sound from the Martin D-28 better. I like playing bluegrass, country, folk, and some older rock and roll.
I haven’t played either one but I like the look and sound of the Martin better here. You definitely nailed the Dear Prudence sound on the Martin, I believe John Lennon used it to record it and eschewed the Gibson J160e for those White Album recordings as did Paul Mccartney also use a Martin D-28 to write and record Blackbird. Cool stuff man, those are some great guitars you have there. Keep em coming. Btw i’m in the market for a Martin D-28, will probably pick one out around Christmas.
The Hummingbird always have that clunky sound that Gibson nuts love without the added chime of a J45. The Martin has more of a woody bass and balanced clarity. Both sound pretty darn good to my ears
Martin D28's have rosewood backs and sides, and always have had rosewood backs and sides - not mahogany.
yep the d18 has mahogany
Unless you order the 14f through the custom shop you can spec 28 style trim and straight braces with mahogany
D28 standard is rosewood back and sides. Just as the HD28. The 000-18 series is Mahogany back and sides. I’m not an expert but the D28 has always been rosewood back and sides with a spruce top. Maybe he just got confused.
Yes sir, in this case the 28 stands for that (rosewood) as 18 stands for mahogany
exactly.. d18 has mah.
I am lucky to have both and I wouldn’t part with either
Please don't spank me for this:
I bought as a 17y/o in 1976 a new Martin D28 clone, an Ibanez Vintage 950 made in '75 .....
I still own it and pleases, not only myself.
The sound ,& playability is topnotch.
My 2 cnts & greetz from 🇳🇱
Martin D28 is an Indian Rosewood back and sides. NOT mahogany. Shouldn't you know that?
I had to check and make sure someone had mentioned this. Two totally different guitars!
I know🤦🏻
It all depends on your style and what you want from a guitar. I can count on one hand all the Gibson acoustics I've ever heard that could hold their own in a standard bluegrass context with Gibson's own mandolins and banjos. They are almost always never loud enough, and if they are, they don't have the punch, the certain required eq, to cut through well in that context. Those few that could were anomalies, happy accidents. Martin D18s and 28s deliver the goods when competing acoustically with loud Mastertone Banjos and F5 Mandolins. You need serious volume and cut with your full rich tone? Can't hear yourself over the dang banjo and fiddle? You need a Martin. But, if you're a singer songwriter type who just wants a sweet sounding box that feels good and sounds good for your voice and style, then a Gibson can be just the ticket. Also a fantastic studio tool because of all the iconic recordings of various Gibsons in rock, pop, and country music over the years. Gibsons can excel at sitting comfortably in just the right frequency range in a multi track mix with electric bass & guitar, keys, and drums.
I’ve owned both, and they both have pros and cons. My Hummingbird was more playable. It was easier for me to get around on the neck. I really learned how to play seriously on the Gibson. That being said, the mahogany sound is brighter that rosewood.
My D28 had a very rich, warm sound, but it felt like I was playing on a 2x4 especially above the 4th or 5th fret, Martin has improved their necks some. The Martin complimented my vocals better, the Hummingbird was a bit easier to play. I wish I still had them both. I did not have them at the same time. And for what it’s worth, I currently own a D18 that’s the easiest of the 3 to play, but somewhere in between the two in sound. It really depends on what pleases you and what you’re going to be doing with the guitar. Hope this helps.
Thank you, it helps. I have the same experiences with D-28 & Gibson H.
I have owned both guitars....I still have the Hummingbird...sold the Martin...These are two radically different guitars....RADICALLY different! ...Different name brands...different woods Hog vs Rosewood...different scale lengths, and different sized bodies...both made and braced different from eachother. These guitars are so different in fact, that they can not fairly be compared to eachother. I prefer the warmth and beauty of the Hummingbird..as well as the warm delicious Mahogany body it has. I find it sounds sweeter, and much better for singing with. The Hummingbird lays behind the human voice..instead of in front of it, upstaging it. The Martin in fine too but rosewood does not lend itself as freely to the human voice...being crisper, with more overtones, and louder, which can hide the subtle inflections of the human emotions behind the words of the song. The Hummingbird was designed for the human voice. It wins by a landslide in my view in respect to singing...But the D-28 is an excellent choice if you do not sing, and you want the louder crisper guitar with the extra vibratory overtones the rosewood provides.
You make a great point. To add to what you said...I think the D28 is better for recording. If you have a separate mic for your voice, I would choose the D28 for recording. But just one mic? The Hummingbird is probably a better choice for the reasons you mentioned.
@@ExpertAdviceTV *ever
I have both having just bought the HD 28 a few months ago. Still trying to love the Martin - great bass but doesn’t have the warm sweet tone of a Hummingbird. I may end up selling it but I’ll keep the faith for now
@@donabate100 Got rid of my HD-28 many years ago. My Hummingbird and J-45 ...well I need nothing else...ever again.
I’m going to get it serviced as action too high and strings a bit dead I think - bass is awesome but not getting balanced tone I’m looking for - hope I won’t end up selling it
The Hummingbird has a 24.75" scale, while the D-28 has a 25.4" scale--another difference that will significantly affect their sounds. Longer scale = tighter, more note separation. I've played both and wouldn't tend to cross-shop them. Both are very good at what they do.
Louis Lanier Thanks. I didn’t realize the scale length is different. Thanks for your input. That’s why I made this, I was hoping to hear other musicians options on either of these. They are both great but I lean towards the D28 Martin. The Hummingbird looks cooler.
Back in 2004 I tried both the Martin HD28 and the Gibson Hummingbird. I almost went with the Gibson as it rang bell like. Then I tried the Martin HD28. I decided at that moment to go with the Martin. It sang to me which is my main criteria for buying guitars.
Im the same way. I played i'd say 200 different guitars all brands from 99-10,000$ as i had a big budget and as soon as i picked up the particular d-28 i immediately knew that was the guitar i was going to buy. its a 2020 1937 aged ambertone d-28 and it is an absolute cannon
A fair comparison would be the Hummingbird vs. a D-18. Both square shoulder both Sitka tops Both Mahogany back and sides
You're comparine a Mahogany body to a Rosewood body! They will never sound the same.
I know. I also didn’t mic these properly. I knew it was rosewood but said mahogany. My mistake.
Nothing like stating the obvious is there bud
I own an hummingbird and I have had the d28 but I swapped my d28 for an Taylor 714ce
Taylor’s now my favourite it just gets better the more I play it
I sold my sixties Hummingbird back in the early eighties and bought a D18. The Gibson didn't project and sounded generally muddy. I much preferred the Martin. The Stones loved Hummingbirds but complained that once Gibson changed the construction (thicker tops? heavier bracing?) the sound was significantly compromised. It's highly subjective. A lot of folks love Taylors-- the ones I've played have sounded incredibly sterile to my ears.
I had a new 00018 after having her for 2 yrs sold it and bought a J45 and would do it again
I've heard other comparisons with better sound recordings and to me the Gibsons always seem to have more complex mid range than the Martins, which have a woodier sound. I own a Hummingbird Modern Classic and I find it much easier to play than any of the Martins I've tried. The Hummingbird is also a Mahogany Guitar whilst the Martin D-28 is Rosewood. A better comparison would have been the D-18. For the D-28 it might be a Taylor 810, which is also a high end Dreadnought with a Sitka Spruce top and Rosewood back and sides.
I own hummingbird true vintage and D41 .... love the hummingbird but the martin so crisp that i cannot put them in the same league. Martin all the way .....
D-28s have Rosewood Back & Sides. D-18s have mahogany back & sides. I would prefer either over a Hummingbird - by a long distance. I have both and I wouldn't personally spend money on a Hummingbird. Never cared for them. A Dove maybe - I do like the tone of Maple from time to time.
Brent Easterwood Thanks for your feedback. I agree with you. I lean towards the D28 and would like to try a Gibson Dove. Thanks.
It’s all personal. I own a D18, D28 and a D45. But none of them can beat my Hummingbird. Gibson acoustics just have that special sound and feel.
Marr Haze You are right. It’s all personal preference. That’s the beauty of it. Thanks for sharing Marr.
Yeah the only Gibsons that are great are their maple models like the Dove and the SJ 200. But they are both now INSANELY overpriced.
Ryan Doyle they are not. You get what you pay for with acoustics. My opinion. Those guitars are art.
My 04 Hummingbird inspires me as much as my electrics after decades of playing! But it took forever for me to find a Gibson like that! I've played a lot of great Martins and think that's easier to bond with!
I know it's an old comment and I probably won't get a reply from the original guy... I always seem to get more definition on the higher strings from the shorter scale and chunkier bass from fhe longer scale. I guess it comes down to the eq profile you want. They're both killer in their EQ bracket
I have a 97 hummingbird and a 2004 D41. They sound almost the same to me except my Martin is twice as loud. I find my Gibson easier to play. May be the scale length. Or just me 😀
Volume is something you don’t really take under consideration until you stand in front of someone playing a Martin and realize how much louder they are than most acoustics.
And because of the 28 does have Indian rosewood it gives a Great sound the next grade it delivers when I want to go to a good sound I grab a studio guitar which is my mahogany acoustic or a
The Hummingbird has a higher tiny sound but has a wonderful sound. I like and own the Martin D28 a 2021 model. But I did make upgrades, I replaced the Corian nut, tusq saddle, plastic bridge pins. Installed unbleached real bone nut and saddle and bridge pins. Installed the LR Baggs Anthem SL pickup and added real bone strap button. The sound is more warmer and fuller plus sustain and clearer notes. I also use the Ernie Ball phosphor bronze medium gauge strings. My friend owns the Martin D45 says my D28 blows his D45 away.
I'd be more curious about how a D-18 compares in sound to a Hummingbird. It's hard to really tell anything about sound, though on most youtube vids, everything seems oddly compressed.
I don’t own either. But, I have 4 acoustic guitars of a different brand name - 2 with solid Rosewood back & sides and 2 with solid Mahogany. And I find myself playing the Rosewood more often.
Of these 2 guitars in question, I would go for the Gibson Hummingbird. But, given my preference for Rosewood, I probably would get a custom Hummingbird with Rosewood back and sides. Which of these 2 do you prefer?
I played today and initially chose the D28 & HD28 over the Hummingbird because they seemed a bit more natural to me to play. However after an hour of singing, picking, finger picking doing runs, I kept picking up the hummingbird. To me after a bit of time playing after getting used to the neck the Hummingbird seemed more fluid to play. I have heard they don’t have enough punch as my style is more country/bluegrass but I sure don’t think so.
As people have pointed out below you couldn't get much more different in two square-shoulder dreadnought guitars. Scale length, woods, shape and bracing are all different. I have a 2008 D28, and if I were to get a Gibson it would be a J45 in the vintage spec. There's room for both if you're a professional musician or you are visited by guitar-playing friends often. Me, I get by with the one guitar.
D28 has Rosewood back and sides ??
You’ve made 2 expensive guitars sound like crap XD
Better to do that than to be a jerk that write this crap
Your comment was really not called for....No reason to be so mean. Obviously he didn't use a sound system as many do. It is a Livingroom demonstration that does put a different perspective to it.
Jerk.
Hummingbird any day, every day. The trapezoid inlays, the boxy top, wins in every way. The Martin is too plain looking and they are too ubiquitous in the guitar world. Gibson is king and the bird reigns.
Patrick Clark you are choosing an acoustic guitar by how it looks? You are either trolling or a child.
New gibson's are like the Chinese version of your favorite toy it looks the part but they don't perform or take abuse in my opinion I've tried lots I was dead set on wanting a j45 or gibson dread I tried many and to be honest I hated them all they seemed terrible to play and the tone just wasn't there I have since bought 2 martin and about to buy my new dream guitar d-18 modern deluxe
Choose an acoustic guitar by looks alone. Smart! Gibson now makes imitation knock off Gibsons but hey who cares if they throw thousands of guitars in the ocean while Martin wastes nothing. The hummingbird looks more appealing. What a dumb comment. You're a Biden voter aren't you?
Personally I'll choose a guitar by how it sounds way over it's looks.
Martin D28 rules. Hummingbirds looks good, but no match for the D28 full sound and richness.
Wayne R I agree. The sound I did in this video didn’t turn out. I was just hoping for opinions based on hands on experience of who views. Thanks for your feedback. Cool Greatful Dead logo.
Gordon Lightfoot played one for a reason
Not true, the Hummingbird rules, in particular when recording..
To begin with, they aren’t both mahogany. I believe the D18 is mahogany. The D28 is rosewood. The other commenters are right, you’re not using a good enough mic for this critical a comparison. As it stands, these are the two steel string acoustics I’ve owned. I was original owner of a 1974 D28 satin finish. I lost it in a pawn deal around 2014 or so, then when I had money replaced it with a 1978 Hummingbird I got at a local music store. Much to my surprise, I overall prefer the Hummingbird. I way prefer the neck. These days I mainly play by myself fingerpicking - bare fingers - and the balance is really nice for that. Also, the individual strings sing better. If you’re strumming, nothing mass produced beats a D28.
I'll never understand the Gibson putting a thick piece of plastic on a soundboard which is intended to be light and vibrate.?
Hummingbird all the way; super easy to play, loud and real pretty. I've got a 2016 Standard and have played the D-28 several times - both are amazing guitars...comes down to personal preference (and the D-28 is Sitka top, Indian Rosewood back and sides 😉).
Can you do a j15 Gibson acoustic vs a gibson hummingbird pro to compare thanks you
Hi Corky. I own both the J-15 and a Hummingbird True Vintage. I'll promise to do a video comparison of these two wonderful guitar. They are very different in both sound and feel.
The j15 maybe be a cheaper guitar. The j15 has more deep tone and drive. Then a Gibson dove or hummingbird. The j15 is a better guitar., if I was going to own a Gibson. The Martin D-16 line are better guitars for about the price range of the j15. May even be cheaper. A new d-16 starts around 1.400 to 1.500.
Hello Mike i have been ill with excitement because i soon can get the money to buy a dream guitar and i really love the hummingbird but i also like the lowden guitars but they seen to only be pickers, in your opinion how is a Hummingbird for picking ? At the moment i have a taylor 214ce dlx and a martin drs1 but iam bored of them at the moment lol p.s in your video i found the Hummingbird seemed more powerful and projected more but the martin seemed a bit dull.
Sambo Elguapo Thanks man! Honestly, if you are going to have the money to purchase a high end Acoustic. I highly recommend playing one first. Weather it’s a Gibson Hummingbird or any other brand, one Gibson hummingbird may sound different then another. I know Martin guitars to me sound more amazing as they age. The same with Gibson. My experience with both the Hummingbird and the Martin has been that both are really great regarding tone and feel bit they do play differently. I love them both. Weather you prefer one or the other should be In my opinion determined by you playing one hands on. You should connect with the guitar. The way it looks and feels to you. I love the look more of the Hummingbird and the time does have more boom but my Hummingbird is also older than my Martin so it’s aged more. I would say try playing a few hummingbirds. You can play three of them and only connect with one. The same goes with any brand. Take care and I hope
You find the guitar you can bond with.
Humingbird all day i like the classy look and darker sound but i can afford neither
Does D28 has pick up ?
How valid a comparison can this really be, brand-wise, since they're two recent-years models?
Hello from France. Did you play « the millworker « of james Taylor ?
If so by accident.
Reverse belly bridges are a mistake IMHO. How many more do I need to fix to prove it?
guitartec So you see these reverse belly bridges detach pretty often? What bridge would you recommend if I were to change it out on the Martin?
@@MikeFromNashville Well, not only do reverse belly bridges detach, they often crack between pin holes. I live and work in the North East, so we see a lot of dried out guitars and the reverse belly bridge can make a real mess out of the top if the owner is unaware of the top warp occurring. These bridges are no match for our lack of moisture in the cold months up here.
The Martin bridges, on the other hand, do just fine, but if you ask me, D-18s and D-28s would be better served with the stripped ebony belly bridge from their 1 Series. This is the most advanced bridge Martin has ever made (IMHO). Not only does it have string ramps for better string break angle over the saddle, but the bridge pin holes follow the compensation line of the saddle, thus, allowing even break angle and even tension over the saddle. This is totally unlike a D-18 or D-28 bridge.
I bought the Hummingbird after playing everything. I play rock and country and it sounds like every classic rock record.
They’re both great sounding guitars. However, I would choose the Gibson Hummingbird
Hi. I decided that I wanted a top of the line guitar. I went to my friendly music store, and had in mind a Gibson J45. I was shocked that I was not crazy about it. i tried a hummingbird and the same. I was not too impressed I then tried a few others, and got to a Martin D-28. WOW that was it. It is sitting beside me now. The point I am trying to make is go mess around at the music store, but you have to play and feel it. Make sure you do. These things are getting very expensive.
I owned both, kept the Martin HD 28 VR. Not that the Gibson was bad, not at all. The Martin was sweater, more emotional. The Gibson was in your face to me.
Gibsons had thinner tops but thicker braces. Gives the guitar a "smoother" sound than the Martin. The mahogany back and sides also really calm it down. For playing bluegrass in 1st position I prefer Martin Dread's. For playing Mickey Baker Drop-2 chords above the 5th fret with jazzy chord solos I prefer a Gibson J45, but a 'bird will do just fine in a pinch.
I've got a 67 Country & Western Gibson gifted to me for my 8th birthday from my grandparents. I bought a nice 92 D16H 5 years ago to augment it. Wanted a D28 for the rosewood but found the H.
The GIbson is not as loud. In the 60's Gibson utilized an adjustable bridge in addition to a small neck. Lots of folks deride these design characteristics as flaws. I do not. Some people put in a regular bridge that opens it up somewhat. I replaced mine with another adjustable one to keep it original. It has a great sound that only a 50 year old vintage guitar can give.
The D16H is a bluegrass cannon that can only be appreciated by playing. Those models had forward shifted bracing reminiscent of the pre-war Martins. If you can find one buy it. They were very limited in production and Martin does not list them as a model in their registry.
Both of these guitars are fine instruments that are worthy of ownership by anyone. I'm not a guitar snob. I appreciate any and all instruments that are well made and sound good.
Older Balder Wiser Thanks you certainly are wiser. It’s true about the 50 year old guitars tone. The more they age the better they sound. If you buy a new Martin or even a Gibson it will sound much better in 10 years when the wood opens up. Assuming they are belong played. Thanks for your feedback and for sharing. Much respect.
I plan both but I do tend to go to the mountain all the time because it breaks good in the mix specially with studio or if you’re doing a live session
I hear you just fine. I played both many times over the years. I did have a D28 in my charge for a long time. I returned it. I did call a local store and had them sent me a Martin to my study to be tested. A 2017 D28 and it was much better than the D28 from the 1970's. I have had a long love affair with the Gibson. The Martin has been a part of my life all along and I bought the Martin.
Kevinpaul I’ve heard some mixed opinions on D28’s from the 70’s. More that they couldn’t find one they liked. Who knows? I’m glad you like your 2017.
I owned a gibson hummingbird made in early 1960's. It had a deep melody like tone.I have not been able to find a tone like it.
I think the Gibson Hummingbirds in the 1960’s sound much better from what I hear. I hear that a lot.
I already had a Hummingbird, and recently got a D28. The Hummingbird is now up for sale. There is no comparison. The D28 is streets ahead for tone quality, roundness of sound, and playability. Played various examples of each, and D28 wins every time. I see the Hummingbird as a pretty collectors item, but as a musical instrument, it is inferior in virtually all respects.
Peter Mate I agree Peter! The Martin D28 is my primary guitar. It will only age like wine. Don’t get me wrong , Gibson Hummingbirds are great but there’s something about the tone of a D28 that to me feels and sounds perfect to my ears.
I’d like to know what your smoking , cause it must be some pretty good sheite to make that kind of statement … The D28 is a good git but to say it’s light years ahead of the bird is a pretty uneducated statement to say the least !!! I have 2 fine birds a J-45 standard and a Martin D-41 … in which my opinion is one of the best Martin’s save the D-45 if you want to pay double the $ of a D41 for a more blingy slightly chimier guitar …possibly?
Onto Martin;
I had , emphasis on had… a HD 28 , a D-18 standard and another Martin special edition for GC… That being said , There are only a couple of Martin’s I’d have. Ok , maybe a few
but the D-28 is not one of them .
If I was gifted a D-28 I’d take it of course … My personal experience and taste of course… The bird has a special chime unlike other guitars ,
I guess it’s an acquired taste of sound possibly but it is timeless!!!
That’s why it’s one of the most recorded guitars next to the J-45!
I started out as a Martin man but wound up being a Gibson guy or both but leaning towards the Gibson sound slightly…
I still like Martin that’s why I still have my D-41 and will never part with it till I’m gone… cheers 🍻
I have a 2014 Hummingbird and a 2014 Martin D35. I love them both. both feel different and sound different. One thing O love about the Martin however is the ebony fingerboard. you can't beat an ebony board. But I wouldn't say I prefer the Martin. If I was just playing around the house, probably the Gibson. If I had to play a gig, probably the Martin. The Gibson has a pickup and amplifies well, not all acoustics do. The Martin has no pickup, and I prefer it that way. Also have a J-200, but it needs to have action lowered so I can't say much about it. Great guitar, tho. Also had a J-45 and loved it, great fingerpicking model, dry woody tone, light as a feather, easy to play. Man, just love them both (and all!). P.S. Used to own an 80s Washburn Prairie Song. Not made any more, ebony board, wood pickguard, goos as any acoutic I ever played.
Remove thet monster pick guard and let that top sing
You need to play the same chords/riffs/plucking for each guitar otherwise it's not an accurate comparison of sound.
I like Martins, my husband likes Gibsons, still together after 45 years, we both like the same baseball team because that would be a deal breaker.
Grown children.
I think even though the audio is worse you can still compare the sounds of them.
Without even hearing them I will choose the Martin right out of the gate!
Martins always sound better. That's why I have a D35 and a D28...I always try the Gibsons in the store but they never impress me.
I used to have a 1970 D28 (bought new) and more recently a 2000 Hummingbird. Most won't agree with me, but I really love the sound of the Hummingbird over the Martin. Both are great guitars IMO, but there's something special in the tamber of the Hummingbird (for me).
Both great guitars, similar in materials and construction, but I wouldn't choose either one. Another guitar with the similar materials and construction is the Guild D55.
I have a J45 and thinking what my next guitar will be to go with it. These are the two I'm looking at. I was hoping to like the D28, because I was thinking a rosewood guitar would compliment it. But to my ears, the Hummingbird wins.
You should play them both before deciding.
I do like the D28 for playing leads (the individual notes are more defined) but if I'm playing a solo acoustic gig, I want the Hummingbird. If you make that a HD-28 it's a real hard choice - I personally don't always pick super hard, so the D28 will sound a little dull (overly bassy) where the HD-28 works for any playing style.
A 1969 Gibson Hummingbird would give the Martin a run for it’s money, but not this one from that year. Actually it would be difficult to find a Gibson Hummingbird, made in the last 30 years, that are as nice as the ones that came out in the 60’s.
Godskingdomwithin You are so right on about that.
I have a 2018 martin hd28 soundsss amazingggg
Please buy a set of strings for both
Bro, you’re comparing a mahogany guitar to a rosewood guitar!
Based on what you need . If you need some hard strum song, hummingbird give it lower sound . But if you need some melody and rich tone , you need d28. Both are good . But to me ... I choose d28 . Its relative
Gagat Sea I agree with you.
The D-28 is the best guitar ever made.
It isn't
I have a 1974, a modern Taylor would blow it away.
Martin Kenny depends on the sound your looking for m8
@@BMARKAUsername true.
You mean Hd28 surely
I just played a 2004 Gibson Hummingbird in a kind of pawn shop that is actually a high-profile operation. They also had a 1957 Gibson Les Paul-Gold top-re-issue in their window.
I tried to play the Gibson Hummingbird, but whoever owned it didn’t take very good care of it at all, so I can’t make a sound judgment based on that guitar. I’ve played hummingbirds through the years, and I’ve played maybe one or two that I actually would spend the money to buy if I had it, but they were rare. When it comes to looks the Hummingbird kicks ass over the Martin for sure, but the Martin sound is superior to that of the Hummingbird, but this is a subjective point of view.
I believe it’s very important to look and find the kind of guitar you want to buy, and play it first, because every guitar, whether it’s a Gibson or Martin, are not necessarily the same as the others that are made with that name and Company.
I own a Martin HD-35-1989, and I’ve played a few over the years of that model and I have not found one that I like as much is the one that I own. This is not about loyalty to my guitar or the company that makes it, it’s simply that not all guitars are made or created the same, so if you’re going to spend two or three or $4000 on a guitar it is paramount that you go and play it for a while! Don’t order it online, unless it’s some great deal that would be foolish to pass up, but if it’s too play, it’s important to find one that strums the chords of your soul.
For my not so loud voice I prefer the Hummingbird it is not quite a bass and loud as the D 28 which over shadows my singing voice I have a Hummingbird from 1968 with an adjustable bridge my singing partner back then had a Martin D28 and when I played it I had to try and sing louder.
Sorry, but your audio sounds like AM radio. No analysis is possible. Nice quality guitars, tho.
yeah, the sounds is bad
Sorry about the sound. I attempted to mic 🎤 them and directly connect it to one of those new Roland GO Mixers. That backfired. So I’m sorry about the sound. I have since figured out how to record amped and 🎤 guitars better. I run the audio now to an Alesis mixer then to the Roland go mixer. Moving forward audio is better.
But the strings sound thin, regardless of the quality of the audio. What gauge do they have on?
A classic question .. However as was said here .. two different guitars with different woods, mojo and different places musically. Still it is the age old match up Id say. With that said I would take the Gibson Hummingbird .. as it is the best dreadnought / acoustic guitar I've ever heard. It sings.. it's sound is so deliciously sweet .. yet it has bump in the bottom end on certain notes and chords to give it that Gibson push and pull and it has a great strum sound. Now PLeeeeease don't misunderstand me.. the D28 is like.. Gold as well and has it's own thing too as we all know. It depends watcha like as they say. You are a fortunate man to have em BOTH! Jus Wow.
Hummingbird bird sounded much better in my opinion, having said that, I thought you played better using the hummingbird.
Not a good comparison. Sorry. Hog vs Rosewood have different characteristics. Personally, I like both for that reason. One sound goes better for one song or style. So having both to me me would cover the bases. Now if you do a D-18 against the Hummingbird or possibly J45. That would be a good fight. My D-16GT would compare.
Two great guitars although I would replace the D28 with an HD35 any day, it's similar but a whole dimension better in sound and depth. Based on the two presented here the Hummingbird is nicer and more versatile. Thanks.
I am lucky I dont have enough money to afford any one. So I wont have the headache of choosing one. But they both sound beautiful
At 0.41 you say they both have Mahogany bodies. They don't. A standard D28 is Rosewood not Mahogany. Do you mean a D18? What are you actually comparing? They are completely different instruments. The D28 (or D18 for that matter) would be a superior blue grass instrument, but a much closer performance comparison as Rock instruments .... to individual taste and preference. For example the Hummingbird has a shorter scale length if playability is ur thing. I don't get ur comparison, but thanks anyway for showing us ur beautiful instruments.
Both mahogany?
Nope.
@@MikeFromNashville
Listen to the 44th minute.
Jim - Martin sounds better, I play a Martin D18v, when I bought it the choice was either a D28 or D18v.
The D-28, but I'd like both. I already have a 000-28
Depends a lot on what you are doing with the guitar. I have both. If I'm playing the guitar by itself, I prefer the deeper bass of the Martin. BUT, to accompany my singing - which is my usual gig - the 'Bird complements my voice. The D28 sound with my voice becomes too "tubby." Also, the 'Bird is a bit easier for me to play higher up the fretboard with barre chords. Both are set with the same height action/same strings.
Both great, I just bought the Taylor 224
The D-28 is EIRW. The Martin D-18 has mahogany B&S. I have a 2008 Martin D-28 marquis. LOVE IT!
Here's my basic rule: Gibson for strumming, Martin for picking.
[ HAVE 4 MARTIN GUITARS I LOVE THEM
The Hummingbird is mahogany back and sides. The D28 is rosewood. Two different sounds.
did this guy go through his life thinking a d28 was made with mahogany?
I have both and also a D18. The D28 is not mahogany though. They are and always have been rosewood. The D18 however is mahogany. The Martin's also have a longer fretboard by about an inch. Both of these differences make them sound and respond differently. If I could only keep one it would be the D18, although it is a '74 and 25 years older than the others, it plays easier and sounds better to me. The age may affect that, not sure.
I own a Gibson Hummingbird and it sound lovely. Played a Martin hd 28 today and it's great too. Gibson is harder sounding and more highs. Martin is very soft sounding very "douce". Martin for me has a perfect romantic soft sound and Gibson is a more mean thing. I think I'll end up with both one day ;)
I love my HD28, definitely would recommend
I played both "A to B" love the martin but the hummingbird had something special
I have Both. I like the Gibson just a Tad better, from the shorter scale and the Mahogany
I have a Gibson Custom Rosewood Hummingbird and a Rosewood HD-28. I just like the Martin better, but both are fabulous sounding guitars. I am just lucky enough to be able to enjoy both.
If it's rosewood , is it really a Hummingbird?............just sayin'.......
I would gladly accept whichever one you don't want.
I heard after the fact that Martin had labor problems and other things in the 1970s. I leaned heavily on my Ibanez
Martins from that era are just ok, but their quality didn’t slip nearly as bad as Gibson and Fender’s did in the same time frame.
Newer Martins are terrific instruments. I have a 2017 D28 reimagined and it’s a well-build and great sounding guitar.
The D-28 has Rosewood back / sides.
My dad had always played Gibson guitars, was just his thing... he was truly a Gibson man...but saying that, I grew up in a home where there was always music and always a decent quality guitar around (that being some sort of Gibson guitar) here’s what I know to be a fact about the Gibson Hummingbird, first off. I love Gibson and Martin guitars, but growing up with the Hummingbird, I watched it age not just physically but also in its sound or should I say it’s Tonality...Gibson Guitars in general tend to achieve (what everybody in reviews refers to as “dark”) I call a muddy or real bass like mellow tone and very quiet...almost like someone turned the treble way down, and they become a guitar that can’t cut thru a stage type of mix (think Grand Ole Opry) unless of course you mic’ed them...but even amplified there’s just a lot of tone, I have found this to be true of a lot of “Vintage” Gibson guitars (notice I said vintage) even the famous Gibson 45, and songbirds do this too...so at any rate that’s my 2 cents, and I was there,
Respectfully,
JSM
Jeffery, Thank you for your input I'm in the market for a good Dred. I'm a lefty so I can't go to any music store and try out what I want. I've got it down to a Hummingbird, D35 or D28. With your info I just narrowed it down to the Martins Thank you
I have played the Gibson Hummingbird and the Martin D-28 and I like the sound from the Martin D-28 better. I like playing bluegrass, country, folk, and some older rock and roll.
I would do the d.28 or the d.18..over the Gibson but I like the gibson.j.45 too..rj
I haven’t played either one but I like the look and sound of the Martin better here. You definitely nailed the Dear Prudence sound on the Martin, I believe John Lennon used it to record it and eschewed the Gibson J160e for those White Album recordings as did Paul Mccartney also use a Martin D-28 to write and record Blackbird. Cool stuff man, those are some great guitars you have there. Keep em coming. Btw i’m in the market for a Martin D-28, will probably pick one out around Christmas.
Both are cool. Gibson for me though
i stod between those guitars. Ended up with a HD 28 martin 2011
Pieter Rafn Yes the HD28 is pretty awesome. Martin’s also sound better with age. I guess all Guitars do, but Martin’s especially. :)
@@MikeFromNashville martin hd28-2011
The Hummingbird always have that clunky sound that Gibson nuts love without the added chime of a J45.
The Martin has more of a woody bass and balanced clarity. Both sound pretty darn good to my ears