Which one is best for you? Martin D18 vs. D28

Which one is best for you? Martin D18 vs. D28 | Tone Zone

Рет қаралды 71,028

Күн бұрын

In this video we're putting a Martin Guitars D18 next to a D28, to see how they compare. We're not asking the question which is better, but hope to help you figure out which one of these fine acoustic guitars suits you best.
Timestamps:
00:00 D18, Take 1
00:26 D28, Take 1
00:37 D18, Take 2
01:10 D28, Take 2
01:43 Differences
02:15 D28, Take 3
02:46 D18, Take 3
03:18 D28, Take 4
03:34 D18, Take 4
03:48 D28, Take 5
04:07 D18, Take 5
04:25 D18, Take 6
04:58 D28, Take 6
05:26 D18, Take 7
05:40 D28, Take 7
More information on the D18 can be found here: www.martinguitar.com/guitars/...
Martin on the D18: "Understated looks, timeless tone. The warm tone of mahogany and authentic Sitka spruce couple with resonant scalloped bracing under the hood for a sound that's honest, authoritative, and clear. Vintage details like open-geared tuners and classic 18-style appointments pair with a modern, low profile neck for an old-soul sound in a brand-new body."
More information on the D28 can be found here: www.martinguitar.com/guitars/...
Martin on the D28: "After nearly a century at the helm, and as the quintessential workhorse of music legends like Hank Williams, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and so many more, Martin's legendary D-28 has been lovingly and artfully enhanced."
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#martin #martinD18 #acousticguitar

Пікірлер: 199

@davidmccright3828 Жыл бұрын

Great comparison! I prefer the D-18. It's clearer and more focused, more out front compared to the D-28. Thanks again for a very helpful video!

@WS-bk7uu 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks your video is really useful and the time stamps really help to give us a sense of the differences in sound

@3cardmonty602 3 жыл бұрын

I’m thinking just the opposite - the D18 sounds Warm & Deep, the D28 sounds crisp & open. I prefer the D18.

@dbo4506 2 жыл бұрын

The d28 is significantly warmer tbh

@MacAJ1874 2 жыл бұрын

So did i.

@sg5104 2 жыл бұрын

I recently bought the D-18 for that reason. When I compared them the D-28 had much more treble in the mix. I am so confused when they say D-28 is warmer.

@piedpeter1 2 жыл бұрын

D28 is more neutral sounding and with fuller bass and almost scooped mids giving the impression of warmer whereas the D18 is very even, balanced making it sound more clear and distinct. I lean towards D18 but am very happy with my D16gt (gloss top).

@0071287 Жыл бұрын

Think he got it backward

@jay31415 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for actually dividing the video into chapters. It helps sooooo much! Seems like 99% of KZfaq guitarists don't know how to do this.

@SKOVDEPETE 7 ай бұрын

Very nicely made comparison. Will come back several times and listen again. 🙏😊

@Johnny6666 3 жыл бұрын

This is a terrific overview of both guitars - played well to accentuate the differences, but without the usual overblown theatrics that poison most KZfaq reviews. The presentation, audio and overall information is excellent. You've clearly shown the tonal differences between the two instruments, which isn't easy with KZfaq compression, etc. Terrific stuff.

@Ziraffe2 3 жыл бұрын

Agree - I'm not a newbie on this topic and really heard the (well known) difference illustrated. For people with a fresh interest in tonewoods, this guide is superb.

@elijahhann9141 11 ай бұрын

Great review! I enjoyed how you played multiple styles to display the versatility in sound of both Martins

@sooparticular 3 жыл бұрын

thanks for doing this! Ive had lots of martins...actually these sound very similar...one slightly dry one wet

@deluxemeat Ай бұрын

Thank you for an extremely helpful video! I’m trying to decide between rosewood and mahogany and this video really helped solidify my choice!

@joshua0226 2 жыл бұрын

Heart of gold!! Sounds great

@lilycat1694 11 ай бұрын

Terrific comparison. I am considering either of those, and also a J45 standard.

@jboy8735 Жыл бұрын

I have both and recently just picked up my d-18 again and wow more warm sounding might be my favorite over the 28

@coreybuffington2689 4 ай бұрын

Best comparison I’ve seen! Thank you for playing different styles other than flat picking. Rosewood for me

@KevinEllisGuitars Ай бұрын

Nicely done

@incognito2246 2 жыл бұрын

Very very nice sound comparaison 👍

@mdwoods100 2 жыл бұрын

The D28 seem to be louder on the lower end, the D18 seemed clearer in the midtones. I'd love to have either one.

@damonlove8 2 жыл бұрын

The D18 for me sounds warmer, deeper, more resonant, more balanced and richer.

@TheSingingDoctor325 Жыл бұрын

Same for me

@el34glo59 10 ай бұрын

Definitely not deeper, nor more resonant

@G_Demolished 9 ай бұрын

@@el34glo59Definitely so.

@jaredcaldera 2 жыл бұрын

D18 for me. It has more resonance and the tone just sounds more quality. The 28 sounds a bit tight and too bright in some instances.

@Guttalaser 2 жыл бұрын

Yep totally agreed with your conclusions! D-18 can cut better through a band mix while... well the D-28 is jus like a Steinway piano. In a guitar duo both are the perfect combo! In my dreams... and i hope in my future... i want a D-28!

@robertrockwell7581 9 ай бұрын

I have a 2006 D-18 and would love to own a D-28. both great Guitars.

@johnwolf9766 Жыл бұрын

Both sound great but I do prefer the sound of the D-28. It seems mellower and resonates to my liking. I am also interested in recording some guitar. What microphones are you using here? Also I have heard/read that your placement of two of the same mics is best and also that two different mics placed one facing the bridge and one facing 12th fret is better. Is there a setup which is better or are there reasons for using each one. I am aware of phase difference cautions and know how to correct for that.

@bido8176 Жыл бұрын

The D18 sounds like its being played through a good acoustic amp, even though its not. I feel that the mid tones are crisper and clearer, almost amplified sounding. The D28 seems to ring out more with chords, a little fuller bodied, almost 12 string guitar like. At least thats my take/ear. Both two of the best guitars of all time.

@stephanemckeown2389 2 жыл бұрын

Having tried both, I would say that the differences are minimal but noticeable when played more "roughly". The D18 is a bit more boomy and less forgiving than the D28. I chose the D28 because every strum or picking seemed more balanced to my ears. Both are superb instruments. Given the choice, I would have taken them both home!

@multipipi1234 7 ай бұрын

I quite agree with your comments. Great sound check. 18 for me.

@TheRealJyoujo 2 жыл бұрын

I know it says D28 has more deep and bass but , for me D18 sounds like it has more mellowness . I would definitely look out for the 18 for sure !

@donklink4571 2 жыл бұрын

I was fortunate to own a Martin OOO 28 and OOO 18 both made around '96. Unfortunately I was suspended from my job, and fearing unemployment I sold them both. I wish I didn't. One must have a mahogany and a rosewood guitar and if possible they should be Martins, whatever the style. Good video. I also liked the one you did with the '52 D 18 and a new one. I surprised myself by preferring the new one! Keep up the great reviews.

@el34glo59 10 ай бұрын

Agreed. Rosewood imo is better for a smaller guitar

@trevlowey5192 Жыл бұрын

The D 18 cuts top sounds with more definition!

@Ziraffe2 3 жыл бұрын

Excellent A/B ^ which means it only shows you need them both.

@dandyroll7610 2 жыл бұрын

For me the D28. I was hesitating when I bought my 2014 Martin. The D18 may be sharper, but I appreciate a little less personality in its sound. The D28 may sometimes hit swampy ground in its mid-range, but it's on so many wonderful records in my vinyl collection that I didn't hesitate for a second.

@tuckersmith8787 Жыл бұрын

Really great video. I would be interested to know which D28 you are playing. Between these guitars, I think the 18 sounds slightly better. I own two 1937 Authentics- a D18 authentic 1937, made in 2006, and a D28 authentic 1937 Brazilian, made in 2007. I have played the other authentic series tone woods, and they all sound muddy. The Brazilian is very rare, but it is the most outstanding guitar I have ever owned. The 1937 D18 authentic is unbelievable though, and I believe beats any D28 that is not Brazilian.

@dbo4506 2 жыл бұрын

D18 sounds better to me here. But I have a feeling in the room the D28 would sound much better.

@el34glo59 10 ай бұрын

Bingo

@blakebruner6173 2 жыл бұрын

Excellent video. Using high quality mics makes all the difference in hearing the voice of each guitar. The D-18 is an ensemble instrument. It felt like someone would begin to sing and/or the rest of the band would come in with the D-18. It's voicing stands on it's own for solo instrumental work, as well. The D-28 has a full sonic sound, almost orchestral, it would have been intrusive for any other voices to join in. I love the Martin sound, wheter risewood or mahogany, and agree that a person should have both. You can find other guitar makers that compete in sound quality with mahogany, but nobody can can produce a rosewood sound like Martin Guitars.

@scdaymon931 Жыл бұрын

Have you ever tried or listened to the YAMAHA LL16?! I'm not saying that it's better than the D28. But for about 2000 €/$ less than the D28, all solid wood, with an Engleman spruce top and that Indian rosewood back and sides, sounding like if you're playing within an iceberg mountain... yes, it can compete!!! It's the best bang for the buck out there. I've payed 450 €/$ second hand, and it's worth 4 or 5 times more. A guitar beast! I'll not say the same about the D18 and the Yamaha FG5. Nothing can beat a good mahogany back and sides Martin!!!

@hotwheels43 2 жыл бұрын

Was thinking of trading my 2016 D18 in for a D28 but after this i think I'll keep it.

@sc12100 3 жыл бұрын

Great demo! You should also compare an HD28 with a D18. Same build specs minus the backs and sides being different tone woods.

@RahulSharma-ry2pg Жыл бұрын

Then add to comparison D-18 with Adi Top and Sinker Mahogany back and side

@sc12100 Жыл бұрын

@@RahulSharma-ry2pg What point would that make ?

@RahulSharma-ry2pg Жыл бұрын

@@sc12100 I mean to say when comparing add the comparison D-18 with Adi Top and Sinker Mahogany back and side

@kalleblomkvist4173 3 жыл бұрын

traded my guild d55 for this D18 a month ago! love it

@sc12100 3 жыл бұрын

How did you like your D55 before you traded it?

@kalleblomkvist4173 3 жыл бұрын

@@sc12100 the Guild is a pretty good sounding guitar. Plays easier than the Martin und has a big boomy warm sound. It is only build by a few persons in oxnard. Only wanted to play a Mahagony guitar that’s why I Switched to Martin I think it’s also better suited for singer songwriter stuff, because the more trebles and balanced bright tone.

@garrettchristopher3462 2 жыл бұрын

If you get a chance (if you haven't) check out a Guild D-40 preferable a vintage one in the 70s or early 80s. They are akin to the guild version of the d18 and are absolutely incredible. Had to trade mine a 11 years ago for a vehicle when we were in a tough spot right before wife and I got married. May buy another, but got a nice martin now and a 19 j45 standard. Guild d40

@Colin.W 5 ай бұрын

I regrettably traded in my D-28 a few years ago. I loved that guitar and didn’t think anything could compare, but I’m all for mahogany and prefer the D-18 in this video. So, excited to get an 18 at some point. Can’t believe how much the price went up since I first purchased. The 1937 D-18 is the dream..

@drewkingson 2 жыл бұрын

for the fingerstyle music I play mostly the D-18 wins hands down - clear, crisp, and still plenty on the bottom end

@chapmanscreekrevival 2 жыл бұрын

I couldn't decide between the two, so I bought both. D28 and a custom shop D14F sinker mahogany. The sinker hog is the best guitar I've ever heard, and gets played the most.

@kk-GUK 2 жыл бұрын

I done the same

@RahulSharma-ry2pg Жыл бұрын

Get D-18 with Adi Top and Sinker Mahogany back and side

@el34glo59 10 ай бұрын

Yeah I'm off the sinker bandwagon. Used to love it. But it's got a metallic sheen sometimes that I can't stand anymore

@alann5003 2 жыл бұрын

the d18 sounds more pleasant to my ears with a drier, crisper, more acoustic sound than the d28. The d28 is louder and has more bass and more shimmery. Both excellent sounding guitars in their own right. I own both models and would give the edge to the d18. It is also much lighter and thus more comfortable than the d28. Also, it's $500 less.

@billboedeker406 11 ай бұрын

Id like to say this helped me. But now I'm thinking I need a D18 to go with my D28. Maybe, you helped me after all. Thanks!😂

@toddjohnson271 Жыл бұрын

Yes, please. I like that rosewood 28 growl on stage and a mahogany in recording and home. Can I choose both?

@windmillcancersurvivor2568 2 жыл бұрын

I bought a 2021 D-18 and can't hardly put it down. K&K mini, Fishman Loud Box amp and an Origin Effects Magma 57 for EQ. It is quite the guitar.

@jasper_north 2 жыл бұрын

Fck! I have exactly the same gear!! Super

@bigbassjonz 15 күн бұрын

The D18 does sound much more crisp. I've had a D28 for quite a while now, and I think I'd really like to have a D18. They both have their place.

@tofusauce 8 ай бұрын

To be the low end of both the d18 and the d28 is the same, but the d28s high is scooped out. Check out take 4 starting at 3:20, very clear.

@dritt-drittpaniagua739 2 жыл бұрын

The d-18 Sounds brighter, which is great. The D-28 sounds a little more forgiving for playing.. and the 28 has better voicing, and a bit quieter

@shawnsnow6413 2 жыл бұрын

In this video I prefer the D-18, but in person I prefer the HD-28.

@i.m.22 Жыл бұрын

Both are Superb guitars, Just a matter of personal preference...

@guitarman0633 3 жыл бұрын

D-18 for me

@vjensen56 3 ай бұрын

I’ve been watching all of these comparison videos and thought I’d get the D18, but today I played both of them in person and got the D28. Here’s why: The D18 sounds great, it has a really nice warm woody sound, but it occupies mostly mid range, which is the same range as vocals. The D28 had a deep bass and a trebly sparkle while leaving the mid range for available for vocals, and no matter how hard you strum, it never gets muddy. It is also the more popular of the 2 and thus has higher demand if you need to resell. Hope this helps!

@jimmorrisshen 2 ай бұрын

thanks for sharing this!

@gimpyjwilliams 8 күн бұрын

its funny because people say the opposite that the 18 is great with vocals and works well but that the 28 is not great with vocals and is better with flatpicking and instumental stuff...... we all interpret things differently and have our own opinions lol

@vjensen56 7 күн бұрын

@@gimpyjwilliams interesting, the videos I’ve watched reviewing the two say the opposite. Either way, if you are interested, I’d recommend playing them in person side by side. It changed my mind when I did. But you can’t go wrong with either!

@gimpyjwilliams 7 күн бұрын

@@vjensen56 yeah that’s one thing we can all agree on they’re both awesome

@ziggymarlissa358 3 жыл бұрын

I’ll have the D28 please!

@alexneveau3072 Жыл бұрын

Always wanted a D-28 my whole life til the day came to buy my D-28 and I compared it side by side with a D-18 and the D-18 just stood out to me as the guitar I had to have. Would one day love either a D-28 or HD-28 might go the used route.

@andrewblack7852 5 ай бұрын

I did the opposite! Lol I played them all at locations all around. Hunted them. The one that cane to me was a used 28. Amazing guitar. I found out that they are not all the same either! Several floor guitars at music stores were not comparable even though they said d-28, d-18 whatever. Besides damage or flaws, they didn’t play or sound right. Not Martin right. If I had not waited a long time and acquired lots of different experiences, I would have bought a much poorer guitar

@chrishyde1216 2 ай бұрын

Good illustration that it's best to go with an open mind. I was fixed on a D28/HD28/D35 but on reflection should have compared with the D18.

@G_Demolished 9 ай бұрын

When engineers record a D18 it stays very close to the original recording. When they record a D28 they tweak the track to make it sound more like a D18. If a D18 sounds like the acoustic you’re used to hearing in recordings, that’s because it probably is!

@perac1000 Жыл бұрын

D28 is my dream guitar.

@federicoscquizzato8359 3 ай бұрын

Are you using the same strings ? gauge/types ?

@MichaelAyden 8 ай бұрын

D18 for me because it’s balanced and all the strings ring out so clearly. The D28 sounds a bit muffled or muddy and not as punchy compared. They both have nice tone but the D18 ticks more boxes. I’ve owned a D28 in the past but now have a D18 modern deluxe to which I’m very happy about.

@justanalias 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks love them both! What song at 1:12? I know it but can't place it

@EpicMusicFan100 2 жыл бұрын

Heart of Gold

@chaseadams7962 2 ай бұрын

I prefer the D18 to the D28. I have a D18 on the way and it will arrive in a few days. One excited man here to say the least

@KurtCobain2021 11 ай бұрын

Do they have the same size?

@jonathanfinks8019 Ай бұрын

To me, the D28 sounds a little more crisp and clear, the D18 a little more muted but both sound amazing

@PopBubbleWrappable 2 жыл бұрын

For strumming, I like the D18 better. For fingerstyle and flatpicking, I like the D28 better. Perhaps this means that I should own both, but I'm nonetheless very happy with my HD-28. I still want something in mahogany, of course.

@Stratocaster65 2 жыл бұрын

I have both... 58' D18 & 59' D28... U make an excellent observation..

@big10hunter42 Жыл бұрын

Same conclusion I had after playing t Ben both back to back. Best to have both, but if only one I prefer the D28.

@user-on9so9bj4c Жыл бұрын

New mahogany smells so good out of the box. D18 for me.

@chrishyde1216 2 ай бұрын

Glad somebody else has mentioned that. I have a 000-16 and a HD-28, and I much prefer the scent of the mahogany. I'm tempted to sell both and exchange for a D-18 as I reckon it's good try them all in my life. Tricky as Chris F. Martin handed the HD-28 to me, so it has a special value.

@anthonyfinney6326 6 ай бұрын

I think it depends on the situation. Alone, I'd go for the D18 to accentuate my vocals. If there's another guitar and it sounds a bit more on the low end, and that's the desired tone, I'll grab a D28. My uncle and I play together and sing bluegrass and he plays a D28 and I use a Takamine Koa and they accentuate one another great. But I am buying a D18 to compliment his D28 better.

@nelsongomez4429 3 жыл бұрын

Hi great video!! Which one do you think would be better for a heavy strummer very rhythmic player in a Full band church setting?

@nelsongomez4429 3 жыл бұрын

Who also sings! Lol

@bluesman12125 3 жыл бұрын

In that case I would opt for the D18! Seems to lay a bit more naturally in the mix!

@nelsongomez4429 3 жыл бұрын

@@tonezone4745 @Stef Delbaere guitar Thank you both! Will definitely look into it!

@ericwilleke6613 Жыл бұрын

I love my D-18

@beverlymichael5830 2 жыл бұрын

D18 for me

@jhowsantos 3 жыл бұрын

O like of the D18 👍🏻

@jasper_north 3 жыл бұрын

Is hidden glue- VTS and ADI top realy worth it? I basically only fingerpick without picks and brush-strum in between (Flicking). Thanks

@MrAndCad 2 жыл бұрын

nope

@jasper_north 2 жыл бұрын

@@MrAndCad why!?

@el34glo59 10 ай бұрын

Hide glue absolutely is. IDC what anyone says in here. Vts, not necessary but more of a different tone choice.

@valentinodominus7078 2 ай бұрын

Go into the store & play them. Even the same model of guitar can sound very different. I played 5 of the same model HD-28 before I decided on the best one for me.

@ggrahman9371 2 жыл бұрын

I love d28.....👍

@josejcastaneda5826 8 ай бұрын

It is hard to believe that the back and sides can make that noticeable difference!

@jamnee 2 жыл бұрын

When the D28 is played I get this feeling that it is restrained a bit. Maybe with age it loosens up. The D18 sounds warm and lush but the notes are not quite as distinct. The D28 seems more accurate. I would take either one of these guitars in a minute and be in guitar heaven!

@chrishyde1216 2 ай бұрын

Isn't the HD-28 a D-28 already loosened up?

@Anthony-qh1xv 2 ай бұрын

They are both great. I’ve played both, and I definitely prefer the D18. I think it sounds much better in this comparison, as well, it sounds warmer. The D28 sounds a little bit too “bright” for me. It’s still a warm guitar, I understand, but it just has too much treble If that makes sense, I don’t really like it.

@alann5003 Жыл бұрын

D-18 all day

@freethinksman4393 Жыл бұрын

d-28s always sounded cloudy in the low midrange to me.

@user-zb2yo4lq5x 2 жыл бұрын

I like d 18

@markbrogan2431 2 жыл бұрын

Great comparison, no winner. D18 for me today.

@TheDennzio 2 жыл бұрын

Both very nice but I just prefer the voice of the D18

@supermarioxs1 3 жыл бұрын

D-18 for me and I actually just got one a month ago... I absolutely love it !!! Never been a D-28 fan for some reason . My other Martin which is a rosewood dread , I started out with an HD-28 and wound up with a D-41 a couple of weeks later . I know the D-28 is different than the HD-28 but I’ll still take my D-41 over both . Not that the D-28 isn’t a great guitar cause it is... 😃

@kalleblomkvist4173 3 жыл бұрын

traded my guild d55 for this D18 a month ago! love it

@WS-bk7uu 3 жыл бұрын

So the D-41 is your favourite of them all? I've fallen in love with the look of that guitar. It costs quite a bit more but I'm tempted to push the boat out as a one acoustic guitar to rule them all!

@supermarioxs1 3 жыл бұрын

@@WS-bk7uu it’s an amazing guitar ! The older it gets the more beautiful it sounds . I’ve had mine now for over 6 years and it’s mind blowing. It sounded great when I got it and it just gets better with age , just like fine wine... I’ve been blessed to add the D-18 recently, now I think I have the best of both worlds. A fantastic rosewood dread and a mahogany dread ... The dynamic duo... 🤩 If you can push it I say go for it !!! But keep in mind mine is the standard bracing that is pre 2018 , The current model looks great but it sounds different. It sounds way closer to the HD-28 which is not my flavor . You may like it however with the new forward shifted bracing . The D-18! With the forward shifted bracing sounds amazing but I don’t think it works too well on the D-41. That is my personal opinion. You need to play a new D-41 and a pre 2018 so you can decide for yourself...

@WS-bk7uu 3 жыл бұрын

@@supermarioxs1 That's great, sounds like you now have the best of both worlds. I'm edging towards the D18 because of the mahogany. I live in the tropics (SE Asia) and the humidity is really high year round and I've heard that mahogany tends to hold up better to humidity compared to rosewood.

@el34glo59 10 ай бұрын

D28s have a fuller sound around the notes. And air around them that's thicker. But you hear thw strings more. More metallic. They also have more bass and highs. A d18 has more clarity around the notes. More separation. But has a woody sound, instead of string sound. They also have more midrange That's why people get confused with statements like warm and bright. They're both warm and bright in their own right just in different ways The highs will be thicker ans rounder on a d28 while more snappy on a 18 also The 28 is warmer as far as thicker sounds. The 18 is more warm if you're talking the actual sound off each individual string. But still brighter Personally, for a large guitar, GP, dread etc, I'll always go mahogany B&S. Smaller guitars for finger style, Rosewood all day

@jjoltra 2 жыл бұрын

Both sound nice but I like D18 more.

@snevetube1 2 жыл бұрын

D-18

@jeffreybonacci2523 Жыл бұрын

@dududucky 2 жыл бұрын

D18

@danielallen7384 Жыл бұрын

I personally like the sound of the d18 better but I bought a d28 because I liked the way it sounded and looked. The east Indian rosewood with the white binding is beautiful. Vs the mahogany and black binding on the d18. Which is also a great looking guitar. I just personally like the look of the d28 more.

@el34glo59 10 ай бұрын

So you liked the way it sounded but think the d18 sounds better?

@danielallen7384 10 ай бұрын

@el34glo59 I think the D-18 plays a little bit louder. Which makes sense. Mahogany is a better tone wood. Don't get me wrong, the D-28 sounds fantastic. But if you're looking for sound and sound only, you won't beat the D-18. If you're looking for sound and looks, I'd definitely say go with the D-28. But that's just my personal opinion. You may like the way the D-18 looks more than the D-28. If you're trying to decide between the two, I'd suggest really doing your homework. They're some really good video's here on KZfaq that do a great comparison of the two. Use a pair of good headphones and listen to them played back to back. Neither of these guitars will disappoint you. I personally was willing to sacrifice a tad bit of sound volume to get the beautiful rosewood. Just remember, Martin is not going to put their name on a guitar that's not Martin quality and sound. Heck, the $500 to $600 X series are fantastic sounding Martin's. The tops on the X series guitar's are the same as the D-18 and D-28. They all use a stika spruce top. The back and sides on the X series are made of HPL. (High Pressure Laminate), which is super strong. I'm telling you they're the best sounding guitar for the money. I had a DX-1 years ago. I lost it when I got in a financial bind. I literally quit playing until I could afford another Martin. Which took a few years. Nothing else I played that I could afford sounded anything close to my DX-1. Until I got my D-28. I apologize for rambling on. I hope I helped you out in some way. If you end up getting one, let me know what you decided on.

@IRequireMedication 7 ай бұрын

@@danielallen7384 Just because the tops are both sitka spruce does not mean they are anywhere close to the same quality of wood. The superior pieces get used for the higher end guitars. All wood is not the same, even within species. The x series may be decent guitars but they are terrible Martins. Heck, even the Road Series are not a good representation. I believe Martins start at the 15 series and up.

@danielallen7384 7 ай бұрын

@michaelh7125 If you think the X-series Martin's are terrible guitars, it's apparent you've never played one. Or held one for that matter. Martin isn't going to put their name on a "terrible" guitar. Your comment is absolutely ridiculous. Also, I don't need you to explain to me the differences in the types of wood used on acoustic or electric guitars. I've researched and studied guitars going on 20 years. You claim a guitar is terrible if it's not constructed from 100% wood tells me you don't know much about guitars. I've played, and I've heard guitars made from all different types of material. Check out the Fender guitar that was made from corrugated cardboard. It's a fantastic sounding guitar. You can find it here on KZfaq. You should do more research before leaving such a ridiculous comment.

@IRequireMedication 7 ай бұрын

@@danielallen7384 I have played a couple x series guitars, no resonance, no overtones. I know exactly what I am talking about cheerleader. Also, out of the two of us who said this: ' The tops on the X series guitar's are the same as the D-18 and D-28. They all use a stika spruce top'. That is a ridiculous statement, using your wording. Run along fool, I have tired of you already.

@OscarBenben 2 жыл бұрын

D18 !!! Is less beautiful but sounds way better !! I’m definitely a Mahogany guy

@RahulSharma-ry2pg Жыл бұрын

I have D-18 with Adi Top and Sinker Mahogany back and side is one of the best .... D-18 anyday

@chase154 2 жыл бұрын

I like both. I would say the D-18 is more sonically pleasing, but the D-28 is more expressive. I would buy a D-18 for strumming and more upbeat music. The D-28 would be what I would use for darker music.

@ArnoldsIOS 2 жыл бұрын

I wish they made the d18 with white binding lol

@dannygoode2255 2 жыл бұрын

D18 All the way

@eduardo0796 7 ай бұрын

Thinking of selling all my electrics to buy either one of these and just keep one guitar.

@stevep2430 3 ай бұрын

Agree with your conclusions but there is many guitars that can replace a d18 but not many that fill in for a d28.

@BlowGOAT 3 жыл бұрын

For recording purpose, nothing beats d-18

@stephenhenion8304 Жыл бұрын

Best thing to do is play both of them. I was knocked out when I played a D28 Custom.. I had to buy it. Rosewood has a richer tone!!!

@azcharlie2009 2 жыл бұрын

The D28 is a little brighter. The D18 is just a little muted..

@juno4494 2 жыл бұрын

D-28. Dang it--now I'm thinking of selling my J-15....

@JohnnyRebKy Жыл бұрын

Every time I try them I go home with a D28. Drop the big E string down to a D and hit a full throated D chord and it just growls.

@mattross6902 Ай бұрын

❤ D18 ALL THE WAY ❤

@piedpeter1 2 жыл бұрын

Did a blind listen, my ears say: D28 is more neutral sounding with fuller bass and almost scooped mids making treble seem thinner and more brittle but giving sense of blended, washed yet unbalanced ringy tone due to less mids which may appear warmer, but listen with eyes closed and ears close, definitely more washed, blended unbalanced tone with missing mids and piercing treble. whereas the D18 is very even, balanced making it sound more clear, full and distinct across all ranges. Mahogany: warm, complete, rich, romantic. Rosewood: scooped mids, sounds like it's missing mids which is why singers often like them because the voice fills the missing mids. I lean towards D18 but am very happy with my D16gt (gloss top). BUT as people have stated, each is handmade and best listened to in person in same place.

@el34glo59 10 ай бұрын

That's your rosewood positive? Scooped mids lol