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Average Price: $2,326

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$601+

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Description

The Martin D-28 from 1985 to 1992 is a revered piece of musical craftsmanship known for its exceptional sound quality and historical significance. This iconic steel-string acoustic guitar has been a favorite among musicians for its rich tonal depth and robust projection, making it a staple in both studio and live performance settings. Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides, the D-28 delivers a balanced and powerful sound that resonates with warmth and clarity.

The dreadnought body shape provides a broad dynamic range, allowing for versatile play across various music genres. The mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard offer a smooth and comfortable playing experience, enabling expressive performances. With a history of being used by legendary artists, the Martin D-28 isn't just an instrument; it's a legacy. Musicians frequently laud its ability to age gracefully, with the sound improving over time, offering a unique blend of classic design and enduring sound quality.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top for enhanced sound projection
  • East Indian rosewood back and sides for deep, resonant tones
  • Dreadnought body shape for a wide dynamic range
  • Mahogany neck paired with an ebony fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Known for its historical use by legendary artists
  • Built to improve sound quality over time

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model D-28
Finish Natural, Sunburst
Year 1985 - 1992
Made In United States
Categories Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Rosewood
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Natural, Orange
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Martin D-28
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Sides Material Rosewood
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Martin D-28 (1985-1992)?

The Martin D-28 (1985-1992) is renowned for its rich, balanced tone with strong bass response and clear trebles, making it ideal for both strumming and fingerpicking styles.

What materials are used in the construction of the Martin D-28 (1985-1992)?

This model features a spruce top, rosewood back and sides, and an ebony fretboard, contributing to its robust sound and durability.

Is the Martin D-28 (1985-1992) suitable for live performances?

While the D-28 is highly regarded for its acoustic performance, it lacks built-in electronics, so an external microphone or pickup would be needed for amplification during live performances.

How does the neck profile of the Martin D-28 (1985-1992) affect playability?

The D-28 from this era typically features a comfortable mahogany neck, which is known for its playability and ease of use, making it suitable for a range of players.

Does the Martin D-28 (1985-1992) come with a case?

While this may vary by seller, the Martin D-28 typically includes a hardshell case to protect the guitar during transport and storage.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin D-28 (1985-1992).

Build quality

  • 1992 D-28s have adjustable truss rods but thicker necks; pre-1986 models may require costly neck resets due to lack of truss rod adjustments.

    Source

Comparisons

  • 1992 D-28 lacks scalloped bracing found in 2025 models; consider HD-28 for lighter bracing and enhanced sound quality.

    Source
  • 2025 D-28s feature "golden era" scalloped bracing, offering superior sound compared to 1992 models with straight bracing.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note that guitars often "open up" within the first year, with minimal noticeable changes afterward.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Use caution with vintage models; inspect bracing and neck condition thoroughly to avoid expensive repairs.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Tommy Emmanuel uses Martin D-28 (1985-1992)

Tommy Emmanuel

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Taken from the description of the source video...

"Video and audio off an iPhone 4s. The guitar is a 1992 Martin D-28."

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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