Martin, Rich and mellow...Taylor crisp and a rich clarity...both beauties to me...just different sounding. I would play one, one day and the other, another....depending on my mood...love em both!
This guy knows how to do a review. I wish all reviews were like this. Comparing them right after each other gives you the best comparison in sound. Bravo.
thanks for this...im a very petite woman and ive struggled greatly trying to use full sized guitars, even hurting my hands to do so. very glad to see a clear video explaining these two instruments
I have to say I'm a Martin person, but just to be fair, I closed my eyes to see if I could really hear the difference. I definitely like the louder and longer sustain in the Martin. The Taylor sounded a little muddy to me. Thank for doing this comparison! It helps me make my mind up for my next purchase.
To all of those saying the Martin "wins" in build quality and durability... Consider this... I love my Baby Taylor. I've had it for 15 years and it's aged wonderfully--beautiful patina, perfectly stable, and a better tone than the day I bought it. I've played the crap out of it (to the point of finish wear) and taken it to Mexico, countless service projects all over Texas, and several airplane flights. It's been on bumpy rides, hot vans, and played IN the van and on the beach. So even though it's not built like a tank it has CERTAINLY taken a beating over time and held up perfectly. I still have it and have it ready for my kids to learn! ALSO: The low end and volume on the Martin is because it wears stock MEDIUM strings and the Taylor wears LIGHTs. If the strings were the same the comparison would certainly be more level. Either guitar can easily switch string gauges. My Baby Taylor wears HD Lights--a step between Medium and Light with more balance.
I'm a Taylor guy. I own a 414 35th anniversary and a Custom GS with Laurel back and sides, which is fabulous! I went in my LMS (The Fret Shop in Huntsville, Alabama) thinking I would buy the GS Mini with the Koa top. I decided I didn't want to spend that kind of money on a student guitar that I would probably have loaned out most of the time. When I settled on the price point that the Baby Taylor and the Martin LX1 are in,I ENDED UP WITH THE MARTIN. I was just as surprised as anyone. In person, on that day with those two guitars, the Martin just won.
Honestly I love Martin guitars because they sound more deeper and more warm, but the Taylor in this video sounds way better and the Martin just sounds like a cheap guitar. Between both I like how the Martin looks over the Taylor.
I have a Baby Taylor in Mahogany, bought it about 6-7 years ago. I've compared it to Little Martin neck to neck and while I wanted I came to buy a Martin - I bought Taylor, for overall attention to details, playability and sound(I think elixir strings are big part of it, they used to be stock), and never regret it, it has been around the world in the mountains, winter camping, etc, held up well, never had any issues with it. And I beat on my guitars :), it could be as loud to support about 10-15 shouting-screaming people.
I wouldn't say that one sounds better than the other. They both sound amazing, just different. The Martin seems to have a little better low end extension than the Taylor, while the Taylor seemed a bit brighter. Would be a hard decision between the two.
A key difference of the LX1 is that it will not absorb moisture or dry out therefore the sound will not change over time. Both brands have nailed the accuracy and get great resonance from the small size. I prefer the Taylor because it is real wood and looks gorgeous!
I own the LX1E and it is such a trusty little guitar. the only difference between the LX1E and a full size martin is the volume. It is truly an amazing guitar. I would definitely go for the martin if you're looking for something to rely on
+Daniel Malone JR. I love my Little Martin. I take it everywhere with me. It is super easy to travel with and it's got a tone like none other. One of my favorite guitars.
Octavio Serrago well, that’s completely ridiculous 😂 the ONLY difference between the lx1e and the lx1 is the electronics. Nothing else. They sound exactly the same because it’s the same guitar. The lx1 just doesn’t have the option of plugging into an amp. I’d definitely recommend an LX1E against just the LX1. Means that you have the option to use it with an amp and do performances etc etc. Plus it’s only 100 quid more. Just ordered one and I would of regretted it if I’d bought the LX1 instead of saving up the extra money.
Octavio Serrago are you sure it wasn’t an lxme which you bought? These do sound different, not as nice in my opinion but it’s completely down to preference on this one. After researching the lx1 and lx1e the only difference between them is electronics. Literally no other differences.
I love my little Martin to death. It's tough. Sounds great. And it fits me perfect. It's one of few purchases that I look at and consistently feel good about it. No doubts. No regrets. It's an amazing little instrument. Give it a try and I'm sure you'll feel the same way :)
I Just Watch why would anyone ask him anything. I played lx Martins all over the US before I bought mine. Most had a great Mid but sounded a little dull in general, but they were all over the place. The top delaminated 2 yrs in and I've had nothing but problems with it...for under $300, it sounds good and I guess it's alright, but wish I would've gotten a Taylor. And I'm a die hard Martin fan. Finding out Martin's budget guitars are shit produced in foreign countries
Alex Paclin so get the GS Mini Mahogany :D and watch mids blow your mind.. I kid can’t go wrong with either, so it just depends on the ear.. to me Taylor rings through your loins while Martin feels riverbank.
Here is my hands-on experience with both. Played a few baby Taylors and little Martins. Tone wise , perhaps not so far from each other , but the built quality of little martin is way better than baby taylor. Taylor seriously dropped the quality while reducing the size. If you are looking for a guitar of this size , get Martín LX1e with pickups. Top is spruce and you can feel the spruce in the tone.
I bought a Martin LX1E (electric) from a pawn shop for $300 on a whim. Not a scratch on it, and it was one of the best investments I've made. I be had so many compliments on its sound at gigs. Really comfortable too.. For me personally.
Martin is scooped in the midrange making it kinda nasally where the taylor is a little boosted in the mids. Top end is nearly the same on both. Imo the taylor had more definition on the bottom and mids but I agree the martin seemed more full on the bottom. But go back to the scooped mids and that would be why the martin was seemingly brighter and fuller in the bottom
Alot of it comes down to the wood being used. The Taylor is offered in 5 varieties of wood combinations where the martin is only available in 1. I prefer how the martin is built but the taylor has enough variations in wood combos to fit most anyone's preferable tone. Pick your poison I suppose
I'm litteraly watching this at a shop trying to decide on which to buy... not a bad afternoon but dam, this Martin is REALLY calling to me... Something just about the weight and the feel of the low register... ARGH!!!!!!!!!!
I'm in the same dilemma. Leaning towards the Martin as well... I didn't like the weight balance of the Taylor (it is lighter) and it sounded more Twangy to me, which if you like it sounding slightly banjoey then i guess thats cool. I'm gonna get the Martin...
Me too. I ended up getting the Martin and definitely no regrets. The Taylor does feel a little cheaper but the Martin feels solid. Good choice in my opinion!
The Martin had better note separation and better resonance. I was hoping that the more natural materials used in the Taylor would outperform the man-made materials used to make up the Martin. Martin still won that competition in my mind. I wish there was more info on the neck profiles for each one (probably similar). Thanks for a great and very useful review.
LX1 - Earthy character, stronger mid tones and dulled highs, great for blues and jazz. BT1 - Balanced tone, high clarity, great for all kinds of music specifically pop.
I think the LX1 had the weaker midrange. It sounds scooped with big boomy bass. That's the opposite of what jazz players look for. Most jazz guitarists I know turn the bass knob off or very low so the guitar isn't sonically competing with the bass player. The Taylor here clearly has a stronger midrange projection which makes it better for cutting through a mix and stating melodies boldly, or playing rhythmic chunk chords in traditional music. I would take the Taylor here, any day, but I can see the Martin being useful for strumming behind vocals and staying out of the way of the lead player.
Alex Hand also need to keep in mind the method of recording audio. Boomy bass but what would it sound like in person? I’ve played both, and I like the warmth of the Martin over the crisp highs of the Taylor
Checking in 2024 - Just listened to this video with closed eyes to decide which one to buy. My heart was set at the Martin - and after listening i was sure that the deep and beautiful sound came from the Taylor. However, i was happy when i realized that it was indeed the Martin. Can’t believe that sound like this comes from such a small guitar.
Excellent side by side comparison! They're both very nice, but the Martin wins for me. It really shines in the strumming. Thanks for doing this review.
He's my favorite artist of all time. Amazing poet when it comes to song writing. Taylor just sings songs that are written for her and I'm not really a fan
I've just bought a baby Taylor superb but did not like the martins too boxy whilst the Taylor rings out like a much bigger guitar. The Taylor has a free bright sound with warmth.
The Baby Taylor has been my go to guitar for the last 5 years and love it. Such a sweet little thing in every regard. As a guy in his mid-40's I don't even mind having the Taylor Swift variant. It's as pretty as it sounds and only cost me £100 unused. I've been looking to upgrade to something even sweeter sounding, but I've already made a misstep. I purchased an Art & Lutherie Ami Spruce parlour guitar. Nicely made, but not nearly as sweet sounding. And because it has a full scale neck I find it harder to play. I think I'd like to try a Koa Baby Taylor, as that is supposed to be a touch brighter and sweeter sounding. Also, I'm considering drilling an extra sound port in the side of my baby, just to let her direct a little more volume towards me. Ramble, ramble, but +1 for the Baby Taylor.
After a lot of research, I ended up buying the Taylor Baby Taylor for my granddaughter's first guitar. Actual ebony fretboard and bridge and solid wood neck were 2 big selling points. In the end, she would have been happy with either guitar - but lovers her Baby Taylor! (And - that's the guitar Molly Tuttle started with, so...)
I've tested and tried both guitar here in the philippines. I'd say, this video is just a guide. It would definitely be good if you could try both personally since you could differentiate: how the guitar feels; its action; the tone; and to determine how the wood of the guitar would respond to the climate and humidity of your environment.
The Taylor sounds very cold and too bright in tone. The Martin sounds very warm and thicker. Both sound great but I prefer the sound of that Martin. This was extremely helpful. Thanks so much for these videos
Both the guitars are amazing for different genres of music and i can not compare them on their sound. But if i were to choose one i would go with the taylor based on the cleaner visual aesthetics
Great side-by-side comparison. The Taylor really shines in the higher frequencies where it absolutely destroys the Martin in clarity and tonal separation. The Martin is really muddy on the higher end of the frequency spectrum. However, the depth and presence in the lower end of the spectrum is absolutely owned by Martin. Depending on what's played, what your preferences are for sound, and what kind of playing you're going to do, either would be a solid choice. I can't say that one's better than the other. They just have their own unique character and whatever you prefer is what you should get. Or, if you have 'the sickness' where you just can't stop buying guitars (common among guitarists) then you could just get both. 🙂
I love the fact that you have better access to the upper neck because of the screwed neck. If you don’t need a very compact guitar, the GS mini is a different world, it sounds awesome acoustically and still has a short scale that is comfortable to play
@@janettedewar6617 both are great, but more guitar for the money with the gs I personally think. But the baby is a better travel guitar due to its smaller size.
I tried both; what discouraged me from the Martin was the significant weight difference which seemed to all fall on the neck. The huge neck dive was the deal breaker for me, unfortunately.
I love Taylors and own a GS mini but I have to say in this baby category, the Martin has a deeper and richer overall sound with chords and individual notes. It almost has a chorus sound with certain chord played. VERY nice for such a small guitar! I may end up actually buying one even though I already have the Taylor GS mini.
The Martin has a lot more resonance, but it also sounds a bit metallic. I actually prefer the LXM, myself, with the laminate top. Seems to remove some unneeded brightness.
I agree and I think you hit the nail on the head. The laminate top has much better bass response and overall balance. In the version I have there are also wooden bridge and fingerboard which are apparently Bolivian or East Indian rosewood. I found at a shop the new ones are super heavy in the neck too.
I've been playing on the Little Martin LXME for a few years and I like it, but I recently decided to look into getting a Taylor as well to add to my arsenal - but watching this I prefer the Martin sound! Still going to grab a Taylor to have both options for different songs. Maybe for Minor songs I'll play the Martin and Major songs play the Taylor! lol that's the ticket.
I just bought the Martin LX1. I went to three different stores that had the two, tried them all, they are both very nice. The screws in the Taylor fretboard makes it look very cheap but it plays and sounds nice. To me the Martin sounded better, it has a little bit more bass. In person, the Taylor sounded like it only has treble, it can be nice but it's not what I was looking for. One store had a LX1 that was setup perfectly, low action and no fret buzz at all. It felt so great I had to get it. I would recommend to go try them, most stores should have both model in stock, they are pretty common.
The long sequence of back-to-back comparisons starting at 2.01 over a wide range of styles and technique are VERY useful and happen fast enough so that it's easy to make direct comparisons. Many thanks. For me, the Taylor just wins --- but as I already have a GS, 562ce and T5z I admit to having something of a bias!
I own a Martin LX1E. I love. I had previously owned a Baby Taylor but felt it sounded a little sharp. The Martin sounds more mellow. I prefer that. I did upgrade to a hard shell case for better protection. By the way, a great comparison of the two.
What a great review. I have always been drawn to Taylors and own a 412ce, now looking for a smaller guitar for my son and I hear the same things in the baby Taylor that I like about my 412.
Ten years later my Baby Taylor sounds dope, got her from a pawnshop. Tried the Martin @ the music store i hung it back after the young lady gave me a get lost look😊
Not covered in this review is the construction... specifically, how the neck is attached. Martin LX1 has a traditional, arguably more enduring, warp resistant mortise and tenon joint & on mine (bought new in 2004), there is a truss rod. The Baby Taylor is just bolted on by two black screws, may have a truss rod? & lacks a neck heel. The neck design was what made my decision.
I've been looking at parlour and travel guitars for a while now. I have a Gretsch Jim Dandy and have been considering an upgrade. I have to say, having seen a few comparisons, I keep coming back to the martin as the best balance of size and tone. I just don't want to seem like a Sheeran Fan-boy. Mind you, having just watched him totally own Glastonbury festival on the pyramid stage in front of 20,000 people armed with nothing but an LX1e and looper pedal, he's gone a long way up in my esteem. I think it's fair to say Ed knows his stuff. It's pretty much the same rig he established himself with playing in pubs and clubs! A travel guitar that's caught my ear, besides the LX1, is the Faith Nomad Mini Saturn but with all said and done, I've come to the conclusion that my Jim Dandy offers just what I need, and having already spent just a third of what these beauties cost would cost new, I'm satisfied I spent well and there's little to gain from coveting another flashy traveller. I'll save instead for a nice fuller toned mid size acoustic.
Folks will go on and on online about comparisons. I come here just to waste time, which is the stuff of life, anywho. I like Tony and his playing, but what I am hearing through my computer speakers moving all that bass is not in these guitars in reality. When you walk into a store on a good day, one will speak to you and you will not be able to leave without it. I thought I was a Martin guy, but have walked out the store with a Taylor 210 DLX in 2015 and a Mini today. On that chosen day, on those walls, those were the best sounding guitars under these fingers.
I’m looking for a good “locker guitar”. I work night shift at a hospital, we get most of our work done fast and have nothing much to do for a few hours. Hard to pick between these two guitars, I’m leaning towards the Taylor because I like the sound but the Martin also sounds good.
Christine, I have say that I'm mostly fingerpicking the Taylor because if I'm traveling in a condo or hotel room, I don't want to make too much noise. I feel the Taylor has a nice warm tone and actually sounds like a bigger guitar. I have to admit, I was disappointed with the Martin, even though I love Martins and own a dreadnought. If you look at the materials it's made from, many of them are synthetic, so I think that affects the tone. It just didn't sound like a regular sized guitar, but more like a toy one. It was a really hard decision because I was convinced walking in that I would buy the Martin, but sitting there for over an hour trying both, I had to admit that the Taylor sounded better. Hope that helps!
Buck Weet you glad you went with it ? I just the Koa baby Taylor and debating on whether to exchange it for Matin or just get the baby Taylor with the mohganey wood instead.
I have an LX1 and have played the Baby. Just can't get over how fragile the neck looks and the screws drilled into the fretboard. Voting for the Martin. But the GSM beats them both for parlor guitars.
Had this same argument with myself a month or so ago. I ended up liking the weight of the Martin and went with a LX1R. When finger-picked with a Tonewood attached, it's such a pleasure to listen and play.
They both sounded very different from each other but I'm having a hard time deciding which I like better. I thought the tone of the Taylor favored the higher frequency ranges giving it a more articulate sound and the Martin sounded balanced around the high-mids giving it an more even temper. Could I have both?
I have played both in guitar center and walked out with the Martin. I couldn't really tell the difference in sound, but I found the feel of the Martin's neck better, it's wider. Plus, the guy suggested I go with the Martin although he's a Taylor guy.
Curious of strings used. Were both the factory installed? The Taylor sounds like Blue Steel or Elixers, or a bright smaller gauge. I know it's the woods, shape, and construction... but, a thought indeed.
Bought a full sized Taylor. They were running a promotion, for 99 bucks you got the baby, and case. If I had to pay full price... I'd get the Martin. The baby is fine - no complaints... Nice case !
![Chino Pacas - Modo Capone (with Drake & JOP) [Video Visualizador Oficial]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Zoc75M8Swhc/mqdefault.jpg)
Martin, Rich and mellow...Taylor crisp and a rich clarity...both beauties to me...just different sounding. I would play one, one day and the other, another....depending on my mood...love em both!
Taylor bango
This guy knows how to do a review. I wish all reviews were like this. Comparing them right after each other gives you the best comparison in sound. Bravo.
Couldn’t agree more.
thanks for this...im a very petite woman and ive struggled greatly trying to use full sized guitars, even hurting my hands to do so. very glad to see a clear video explaining these two instruments
I have to say I'm a Martin person, but just to be fair, I closed my eyes to see if I could really hear the difference. I definitely like the louder and longer sustain in the Martin. The Taylor sounded a little muddy to me. Thank for doing this comparison! It helps me make my mind up for my next purchase.
I'm totally obsessed with the bass sound by Martin
Simply the best demo I've heard. Martin for me, thanks.
I think the Taylor sounded like a guitar while the Martin sounded like a guitar as well. 🙌👍
Genius
lol
Hahhah
Lmao
To all of those saying the Martin "wins" in build quality and durability... Consider this...
I love my Baby Taylor. I've had it for 15 years and it's aged wonderfully--beautiful patina, perfectly stable, and a better tone than the day I bought it. I've played the crap out of it (to the point of finish wear) and taken it to Mexico, countless service projects all over Texas, and several airplane flights. It's been on bumpy rides, hot vans, and played IN the van and on the beach. So even though it's not built like a tank it has CERTAINLY taken a beating over time and held up perfectly. I still have it and have it ready for my kids to learn!
ALSO: The low end and volume on the Martin is because it wears stock MEDIUM strings and the Taylor wears LIGHTs. If the strings were the same the comparison would certainly be more level. Either guitar can easily switch string gauges. My Baby Taylor wears HD Lights--a step between Medium and Light with more balance.
I like that I can reset the neck in minutes too.
I'm a Taylor guy. I own a 414 35th anniversary and a Custom GS with Laurel back and sides, which is fabulous! I went in my LMS (The Fret Shop in Huntsville, Alabama) thinking I would buy the GS Mini with the Koa top. I decided I didn't want to spend that kind of money on a student guitar that I would probably have loaned out most of the time. When I settled on the price point that the Baby Taylor and the Martin LX1 are in,I ENDED UP WITH THE MARTIN. I was just as surprised as anyone. In person, on that day with those two guitars, the Martin just won.
haha i live in huntsville lol
Honestly I love Martin guitars because they sound more deeper and more warm, but the Taylor in this video sounds way better and the Martin just sounds like a cheap guitar. Between both I like how the Martin looks over the Taylor.
I thought the Martin sounded like a toy to my ears compared to the Taylor.
I have a Baby Taylor in Mahogany, bought it about 6-7 years ago. I've compared it to Little Martin neck to neck and while I wanted I came to buy a Martin - I bought Taylor, for overall attention to details, playability and sound(I think elixir strings are big part of it, they used to be stock), and never regret it, it has been around the world in the mountains, winter camping, etc, held up well, never had any issues with it. And I beat on my guitars :), it could be as loud to support about 10-15 shouting-screaming people.
For some reason when watching the video I picked the Taylor but when I looked away and just listened I picked the Martin
ditto
Taylor sounded a lot better to me, martin had too much low end for my ears
I wouldn't say that one sounds better than the other. They both sound amazing, just different. The Martin seems to have a little better low end extension than the Taylor, while the Taylor seemed a bit brighter. Would be a hard decision between the two.
A key difference of the LX1 is that it will not absorb moisture or dry out therefore the sound will not change over time.
Both brands have nailed the accuracy and get great resonance from the small size. I prefer the Taylor because it is real wood and looks gorgeous!
Nice playing and a great way to do the reviews. Could really hear the difference in each guitar's sound. Well done!
I own the LX1E and it is such a trusty little guitar. the only difference between the LX1E and a full size martin is the volume. It is truly an amazing guitar. I would definitely go for the martin if you're looking for something to rely on
+Daniel Malone JR. Yes, I have medium-large hands and it is very easy to play. I do recommend playing one first just to get a feel for it.
+Daniel Malone JR. I love my Little Martin. I take it everywhere with me. It is super easy to travel with and it's got a tone like none other. One of my favorite guitars.
Octavio Serrago well, that’s completely ridiculous 😂 the ONLY difference between the lx1e and the lx1 is the electronics. Nothing else. They sound exactly the same because it’s the same guitar. The lx1 just doesn’t have the option of plugging into an amp. I’d definitely recommend an LX1E against just the LX1. Means that you have the option to use it with an amp and do performances etc etc. Plus it’s only 100 quid more. Just ordered one and I would of regretted it if I’d bought the LX1 instead of saving up the extra money.
Octavio Serrago find that hard to believe but might try an lx1 in a shop sometime! Have a happy new year!
Octavio Serrago are you sure it wasn’t an lxme which you bought? These do sound different, not as nice in my opinion but it’s completely down to preference on this one. After researching the lx1 and lx1e the only difference between them is electronics. Literally no other differences.
Had a Martin lx1 for 2 years. It’s absolutely brilliant!!!!! Would recommend it
Do u humidify it I just got one and was wondering if I should
@@bluehour6636 no its hpf so i dont think you need to - mines still amazing so yeah no i dont think so
I love my little Martin to death. It's tough. Sounds great. And it fits me perfect. It's one of few purchases that I look at and consistently feel good about it. No doubts. No regrets. It's an amazing little instrument. Give it a try and I'm sure you'll feel the same way :)
Martin has waay more mids than Taylor, while Taylor is more balanced out. But which one do you prefer is just a matter of taste.
Alex Paclin ask Ed Sheeran
I Just Watch why would anyone ask him anything. I played lx Martins all over the US before I bought mine. Most had a great Mid but sounded a little dull in general, but they were all over the place. The top delaminated 2 yrs in and I've had nothing but problems with it...for under $300, it sounds good and I guess it's alright, but wish I would've gotten a Taylor. And I'm a die hard Martin fan. Finding out Martin's budget guitars are shit produced in foreign countries
Alex Paclin so get the GS Mini Mahogany :D and watch mids blow your mind.. I kid can’t go wrong with either, so it just depends on the ear.. to me Taylor rings through your loins while Martin feels riverbank.
Here is my hands-on experience with both. Played a few baby Taylors and little Martins. Tone wise , perhaps not so far from each other , but the built quality of little martin is way better than baby taylor. Taylor seriously dropped the quality while reducing the size. If you are looking for a guitar of this size , get Martín LX1e with pickups. Top is spruce and you can feel the spruce in the tone.
Thx ❤
Great comparison video. It's nice to hear the exact same chord phrasing back to back, can really hear the difference. Thank you!
I go with the Martin sound for MY ears.
I bought a Martin LX1E (electric) from a pawn shop for $300 on a whim. Not a scratch on it, and it was one of the best investments I've made. I be had so many compliments on its sound at gigs. Really comfortable too.. For me personally.
The Martin sounds fuller to my ears. It rings longer and has more character while the Taylor has a boxy sound and is more like a smaller guitar.
True
Martin is scooped in the midrange making it kinda nasally where the taylor is a little boosted in the mids. Top end is nearly the same on both. Imo the taylor had more definition on the bottom and mids but I agree the martin seemed more full on the bottom. But go back to the scooped mids and that would be why the martin was seemingly brighter and fuller in the bottom
Alot of it comes down to the wood being used. The Taylor is offered in 5 varieties of wood combinations where the martin is only available in 1.
I prefer how the martin is built but the taylor has enough variations in wood combos to fit most anyone's preferable tone.
Pick your poison I suppose
I'm litteraly watching this at a shop trying to decide on which to buy... not a bad afternoon but dam, this Martin is REALLY calling to me... Something just about the weight and the feel of the low register... ARGH!!!!!!!!!!
Totally agree man.
I'm in the same dilemma. Leaning towards the Martin as well... I didn't like the weight balance of the Taylor (it is lighter) and it sounded more Twangy to me, which if you like it sounding slightly banjoey then i guess thats cool. I'm gonna get the Martin...
Nor Wester which did u buy ?
Me too. I ended up getting the Martin and definitely no regrets. The Taylor does feel a little cheaper but the Martin feels solid. Good choice in my opinion!
@@deejaycalanoc I been trying to decide on a Martin or Taylor. For 6 years. Still can't make up my mind.
The Martin had better note separation and better resonance. I was hoping that the more natural materials used in the Taylor would outperform the man-made materials used to make up the Martin. Martin still won that competition in my mind. I wish there was more info on the neck profiles for each one (probably similar). Thanks for a great and very useful review.
LX1 - Earthy character, stronger mid tones and dulled highs, great for blues and jazz.
BT1 - Balanced tone, high clarity, great for all kinds of music specifically pop.
I think the LX1 had the weaker midrange. It sounds scooped with big boomy bass. That's the opposite of what jazz players look for. Most jazz guitarists I know turn the bass knob off or very low so the guitar isn't sonically competing with the bass player. The Taylor here clearly has a stronger midrange projection which makes it better for cutting through a mix and stating melodies boldly, or playing rhythmic chunk chords in traditional music. I would take the Taylor here, any day, but I can see the Martin being useful for strumming behind vocals and staying out of the way of the lead player.
Yeah, true, but for a little guitar like this, you'd probably want that bloomy lower end to help round out that campfire tuneage right?
Alex Hand also need to keep in mind the method of recording audio. Boomy bass but what would it sound like in person? I’ve played both, and I like the warmth of the Martin over the crisp highs of the Taylor
gosh so hard to tell!!!! i love them both!! i thought i wanted a martin but i love the taylor sound
Taylor sounds like honey to my ears. Love that airness in the tone.
The Taylor is more alive but the Martin sounds like a bigger guitar, more bass response. I Actually prefer the sound of the ..............taylor!
I bet your a picker rather than a strummer?
Zibbe Zabba my thoughts exactly.
Zibbe Zabba not that there's anything wrong with that.
Checking in 2024 - Just listened to this video with closed eyes to decide which one to buy.
My heart was set at the Martin - and after listening i was sure that the deep and beautiful sound came from the Taylor.
However, i was happy when i realized that it was indeed the Martin.
Can’t believe that sound like this comes from such a small guitar.
Martin definitely sounds warmer. Still both sound great.
Excellent side by side comparison! They're both very nice, but the Martin wins for me. It really shines in the strumming. Thanks for doing this review.
taylor swift vs ed sheeran
Ed sheeran all the way! Haha
Sammy Nadeau amen to that
Sammy Nadeau hell yes, his songs have so much meaning. Like he doesn't stick to one topic and he touches all genres
He's my favorite artist of all time. Amazing poet when it comes to song writing. Taylor just sings songs that are written for her and I'm not really a fan
+Joshius John Mayer
I've just bought a baby Taylor superb but did not like the martins too boxy whilst the Taylor rings out like a much bigger guitar. The Taylor has a free bright sound with warmth.
The Baby Taylor has been my go to guitar for the last 5 years and love it. Such a sweet little thing in every regard. As a guy in his mid-40's I don't even mind having the Taylor Swift variant. It's as pretty as it sounds and only cost me £100 unused.
I've been looking to upgrade to something even sweeter sounding, but I've already made a misstep. I purchased an Art & Lutherie Ami Spruce parlour guitar. Nicely made, but not nearly as sweet sounding. And because it has a full scale neck I find it harder to play.
I think I'd like to try a Koa Baby Taylor, as that is supposed to be a touch brighter and sweeter sounding.
Also, I'm considering drilling an extra sound port in the side of my baby, just to let her direct a little more volume towards me.
Ramble, ramble, but +1 for the Baby Taylor.
After a lot of research, I ended up buying the Taylor Baby Taylor for my granddaughter's first guitar. Actual ebony fretboard and bridge and solid wood neck were 2 big selling points. In the end, she would have been happy with either guitar - but lovers her Baby Taylor! (And - that's the guitar Molly Tuttle started with, so...)
solid review Tony. watched quite a few of your reviews and you're always playing enough material to gather an honest opinion. thanks
I've tested and tried both guitar here in the philippines. I'd say, this video is just a guide. It would definitely be good if you could try both personally since you could differentiate: how the guitar feels; its action; the tone; and to determine how the wood of the guitar would respond to the climate and humidity of your environment.
ano po mas ok sir sa tingin mo po
@@MarkMedionaTaylor for flat picking every notes shine and empized
Picked up the new Martin LX1R the other day and it has that awesome Martin sound. Love it.
The Taylor sounds very cold and too bright in tone. The Martin sounds very warm and thicker. Both sound great but I prefer the sound of that Martin. This was extremely helpful. Thanks so much for these videos
Thanks for the review. It’s the Taylor for me
Both the guitars are amazing for different genres of music and i can not compare them on their sound. But if i were to choose one i would go with the taylor based on the cleaner visual aesthetics
martin has nice bass boom an crisp heights, while taylor has more twang an mids. i go with the martin.
Alleluia
If St Mark says so no one is to disagree. Lord have mercy
Totally disagree, the Martin sounds like its being played underwater. I like Martin guitars, but the Taylor sounds far clearer and distinctive.
Great side-by-side comparison. The Taylor really shines in the higher frequencies where it absolutely destroys the Martin in clarity and tonal separation. The Martin is really muddy on the higher end of the frequency spectrum. However, the depth and presence in the lower end of the spectrum is absolutely owned by Martin. Depending on what's played, what your preferences are for sound, and what kind of playing you're going to do, either would be a solid choice. I can't say that one's better than the other. They just have their own unique character and whatever you prefer is what you should get. Or, if you have 'the sickness' where you just can't stop buying guitars (common among guitarists) then you could just get both. 🙂
Wow! Just the review I needed to help in my decision of which one to buy. Thanks!
I love the fact that you have better access to the upper neck because of the screwed neck. If you don’t need a very compact guitar, the GS mini is a different world, it sounds awesome acoustically and still has a short scale that is comfortable to play
I do not like the deep neck on the GS Mini but the baby is great.
@@janettedewar6617 both are great, but more guitar for the money with the gs I personally think. But the baby is a better travel guitar due to its smaller size.
I tried both; what discouraged me from the Martin was the significant weight difference which seemed to all fall on the neck. The huge neck dive was the deal breaker for me, unfortunately.
Dang...
Does Taylor also make a hard case for it too though like the little Martin has?
The Martin sounds so much brighter. I have a Martin backpacker already and it seems to get better with age. Good review. Thanks
I love Taylors and own a GS mini but I have to say in this baby category, the Martin has a deeper and richer overall sound with chords and individual notes. It almost has a chorus sound with certain chord played. VERY nice for such a small guitar! I may end up actually buying one even though I already have the Taylor GS mini.
The Martin has a lot more resonance, but it also sounds a bit metallic.
I actually prefer the LXM, myself, with the laminate top. Seems to remove some unneeded brightness.
I agree and I think you hit the nail on the head. The laminate top has much better bass response and overall balance. In the version I have there are also wooden bridge and fingerboard which are apparently Bolivian or East Indian rosewood. I found at a shop the new ones are super heavy in the neck too.
Es malo que sean laminados, he escuchado de gente que odia las guitarras con fondo laminado.
The Taylor sounds louder but the Martin in my opinion has a better tone.
The taylor seems to have more separation ... better finger picking ... the Martin sounds like a better strummer.
exactly the opposite
you should strum more carefully on the martin as it can sound muddy and messy, as on the taylor it is so bright you can be less carful.
I've been playing on the Little Martin LXME for a few years and I like it, but I recently decided to look into getting a Taylor as well to add to my arsenal - but watching this I prefer the Martin sound! Still going to grab a Taylor to have both options for different songs.
Maybe for Minor songs I'll play the Martin and Major songs play the Taylor! lol that's the ticket.
Which one would you say is easier to play?
I just bought the Martin LX1. I went to three different stores that had the two, tried them all, they are both very nice.
The screws in the Taylor fretboard makes it look very cheap but it plays and sounds nice.
To me the Martin sounded better, it has a little bit more bass. In person, the Taylor sounded like it only has treble, it can be nice but it's not what I was looking for.
One store had a LX1 that was setup perfectly, low action and no fret buzz at all. It felt so great I had to get it. I would recommend to go try them, most stores should have both model in stock, they are pretty common.
The long sequence of back-to-back comparisons starting at 2.01 over a wide range of styles and technique are VERY useful and happen fast enough so that it's easy to make direct comparisons.
Many thanks. For me, the Taylor just wins --- but as I already have a GS, 562ce and T5z I admit to having something of a bias!
I own a Martin LX1E. I love. I had previously owned a Baby Taylor but felt it sounded a little sharp. The Martin sounds more mellow. I prefer that. I did upgrade to a hard shell case for better protection. By the way, a great comparison of the two.
Thanks I played both and liked both but settled on the Martin and love it
What a great review. I have always been drawn to Taylors and own a 412ce, now looking for a smaller guitar for my son and I hear the same things in the baby Taylor that I like about my 412.
Ten years later my Baby Taylor sounds dope, got her from a pawnshop. Tried the Martin @ the music store i hung it back after the young lady gave me a get lost look😊
I tried them both at the store and felt like the Martin sounds and feels better to me so that’s the one I brought home 😎
Not covered in this review is the construction... specifically, how the neck is attached. Martin LX1 has a traditional, arguably more enduring, warp resistant mortise and tenon joint & on mine (bought new in 2004), there is a truss rod. The Baby Taylor is just bolted on by two black screws, may have a truss rod? & lacks a neck heel. The neck design was what made my decision.
I've been looking at parlour and travel guitars for a while now. I have a Gretsch Jim Dandy and have been considering an upgrade. I have to say, having seen a few comparisons, I keep coming back to the martin as the best balance of size and tone. I just don't want to seem like a Sheeran Fan-boy. Mind you, having just watched him totally own Glastonbury festival on the pyramid stage in front of 20,000 people armed with nothing but an LX1e and looper pedal, he's gone a long way up in my esteem. I think it's fair to say Ed knows his stuff. It's pretty much the same rig he established himself with playing in pubs and clubs!
A travel guitar that's caught my ear, besides the LX1, is the Faith Nomad Mini Saturn but with all said and done, I've come to the conclusion that my Jim Dandy offers just what I need, and having already spent just a third of what these beauties cost would cost new, I'm satisfied I spent well and there's little to gain from coveting another flashy traveller. I'll save instead for a nice fuller toned mid size acoustic.
The Taylor sound from finger style to picking, had my ears attention more than the Martin.
Phenomenal review and demonstration. I think I'm getting both!! Lol. Kudos Tony and thank you from NYC.
Folks will go on and on online about comparisons. I come here just to waste time, which is the stuff of life, anywho.
I like Tony and his playing, but what I am hearing through my computer speakers moving all that bass is not in these guitars in reality.
When you walk into a store on a good day, one will speak to you and you will not be able to leave without it. I thought I was a Martin guy, but have walked out the store with a Taylor 210 DLX in 2015 and a Mini today. On that chosen day, on those walls, those were the best sounding guitars under these fingers.
I’m looking for a good “locker guitar”. I work night shift at a hospital, we get most of our work done fast and have nothing much to do for a few hours. Hard to pick between these two guitars, I’m leaning towards the Taylor because I like the sound but the Martin also sounds good.
To my ear the Taylor edged out the Martin in overall tone... but again, that's just MY ear; your mileage may vary.
Taylor sounds boxy, I had one and sold it. I got a little Martin and I love it
Christine, I have say that I'm mostly fingerpicking the Taylor because if I'm traveling in a condo or hotel room, I don't want to make too much noise. I feel the Taylor has a nice warm tone and actually sounds like a bigger guitar. I have to admit, I was disappointed with the Martin, even though I love Martins and own a dreadnought. If you look at the materials it's made from, many of them are synthetic, so I think that affects the tone. It just didn't sound like a regular sized guitar, but more like a toy one. It was a really hard decision because I was convinced walking in that I would buy the Martin, but sitting there for over an hour trying both, I had to admit that the Taylor sounded better. Hope that helps!
Can definitely hear the difference between the two. Both are sounding great, but the Martin throws a richer, fuller sound than the Taylor.
Martin sounds better strummed while the Taylor is best for fingerpicking...
Yeah what an excellent review. I thought I would end up switching between videos to hear both. Thanks Man
Thanks for the review man straight to the point
Went and played both today, I now own another Martin.
Buck Weet you glad you went with it ? I just the Koa baby Taylor and debating on whether to exchange it for Matin or just get the baby Taylor with the mohganey wood instead.
The Martin sounds a bit warmer. The Taylor has a more expressive tone if that makes sense. Both sound great, and this is a perfect comparison video.
This was TOUGH, your vid helped. Both great. I bought the Taylor in KOA Wood. Arrives next week and very excited.
Basically, the same kind of difference we'd find with their bigger versions: Martin's lows vs Taylor's resonance. In this case, it's a push.
I have an LX1 and have played the Baby. Just can't get over how fragile the neck looks and the screws drilled into the fretboard. Voting for the Martin. But the GSM beats them both for parlor guitars.
Had this same argument with myself a month or so ago. I ended up liking the weight of the Martin and went with a LX1R. When finger-picked with a Tonewood attached, it's such a pleasure to listen and play.
i play blues so martin has my vote
They both sounded very different from each other but I'm having a hard time deciding which I like better. I thought the tone of the Taylor favored the higher frequency ranges giving it a more articulate sound and the Martin sounded balanced around the high-mids giving it an more even temper. Could I have both?
Very good way to compare guitars side by side ! The Taylor sounds better, brighter than the Martin. I would go for the bt1.
Martin was brighter but Taylor had a warmer tone and slightly bigger sound. A🌈🐻👍🏾
Definitely hearing the TAILOR coming through with a much deeper clear sound. Thanks for sharing God bless and Merry Christmas
Thanks for mentioning nut neck width. People with small hands really need that comparative info.
Great review! Thank you for just doing some simple strums so we can clearly hear the difference.
I have played both in guitar center and walked out with the Martin. I couldn't really tell the difference in sound, but I found the feel of the Martin's neck better, it's wider. Plus, the guy suggested I go with the Martin although he's a Taylor guy.
Hi! To play at home with the family do you recommend one of these guitars or better another? On the same price range. Thanks so much
Thank you for the great review :) Might I know what song you are playing at the 2:50 mark? Is it an improv? It’s so good 😊
Thanks so much... what a perfect comparison!
But I trust Ed Sheeran.
Yea ed has like 4 little martins
EvenEva recorded his entire album on this guitar! So everyone should trust Ed! haha
Did he really first or second album
Justyn Williams
I think both.
Oh ok
This review was a huge help for me to choose. I went for Little Martin and it was the right decision :)
martin all the way! but ask you mention the same price? as far as i know martin are more expensive bit from the taylor
were both using the same strings?
Wow! Excellent review. Thank you.
This is the way, I feel, an A-B comparison, should be conducted. Nice work !
What is this type of music your playing? Id like to learn it
It's like comparing Les Paul and Stratocaster. Both are great guitar with diferent character and tone
What tuning are you in brother. Great compassion and playing.
Curious of strings used. Were both the factory installed?
The Taylor sounds like Blue Steel or Elixers, or a bright smaller gauge.
I know it's the woods, shape, and construction... but, a thought indeed.
Bought a full sized Taylor. They were running a promotion, for 99 bucks you got the baby, and case. If I had to pay full price... I'd get the Martin. The baby is fine - no complaints... Nice case !