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Average Price: $6,995

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$200

$601+

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Description

Step into the golden era of acoustic excellence with the 70's Martin D-45, a testament to Martin's legendary craftsmanship. This steel-string acoustic guitar embodies the rich tonal qualities and aesthetic beauty that have made it a coveted choice among musicians for decades. Crafted during a period renowned for its innovation in acoustic guitar design, this model is a harmonious blend of exquisite artistry and sound precision.

The 70's Martin D-45 is celebrated for its robust build and meticulous attention to detail. Its solid spruce top and Indian rosewood back and sides contribute to a warm, resonant sound that projects beautifully, whether strumming chords or picking out intricate melodies. The guitar's ornate inlays and detailed binding not only enhance its visual appeal but also reflect the high standards of craftsmanship that Martin is known for.

With a reputation for delivering a balanced sound across all frequencies, the D-45 is ideal for both professional performances and intimate sessions. Its slim neck profile and smooth fingerboard offer exceptional playability, making it a favorite among seasoned guitarists seeking both comfort and tonal versatility.

Perfect for a wide range of musical styles, from folk to bluegrass, the 70's Martin D-45 continues to be a symbol of musical heritage, offering a timeless sound that has inspired countless artists.

Key Features:

  • Solid spruce top with Indian rosewood back and sides
  • Ornate inlays and detailed binding
  • Slim neck profile for comfortable playability
  • Balanced tonal range suitable for various musical styles
  • Renowned Martin craftsmanship from the 1970s era

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model D-45
Finish Natural
Year 1968 - 1992
Made In United States
Categories Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Rosewood
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Natural
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Martin D-45
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin Post-War Era
Sides Material Rosewood
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What makes the 70's Martin D-45 a sought-after acoustic guitar?

The 70's Martin D-45 is renowned for its premium craftsmanship, featuring Brazilian rosewood back and sides, and a solid spruce top. Its rich tonal quality and historical significance make it a highly coveted instrument among collectors and musicians.

How does the sound of the 70's Martin D-45 compare to other acoustic guitars?

The 70's Martin D-45 offers a balanced and full-bodied sound with exceptional projection, thanks to its dreadnought body shape and high-quality tonewoods. This makes it ideal for both fingerstyle and strumming.

Is the 70's Martin D-45 suitable for professional performances?

Yes, the 70's Martin D-45 is well-suited for professional performances due to its superior sound quality and robust construction, providing reliability and excellent tonal characteristics on stage.

What type of music is the 70's Martin D-45 best suited for?

The 70's Martin D-45 is versatile, making it suitable for various genres like folk, country, bluegrass, and rock. Its rich, resonant sound complements both vocal accompaniment and solo guitar work.

Does the 70's Martin D-45 come with any built-in electronics?

No, the 70's Martin D-45 does not come with built-in electronics, maintaining its traditional acoustic design for pure, natural sound without amplification.

28 guitar

28 guitar

MARTIN D-45 (1970) German TOP

Video thumbnail for MARTIN D-45 (1970) German TOP by 28 guitar

MARTIN D-45 (1970) German TOP

28 guitar

28 guitar

Video thumbnail for 140909 Martin D-45 (1970) by bluegguitar

140909 Martin D-45 (1970)

bluegguitar

bluegguitar

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin D-45 ( 70's).

Comparisons

  • The D-42, with less abalone, is a cheaper alternative to the D-45 and features forward-shifted scalloped bracing for enhanced bass response.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Older D-45 models typically have a 1.69" nut width; newer models from 2018 onward offer a 1.75" nut width for different playability preferences.

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  • 1970s Martin dreadnoughts often require neck resets and bridge replacements due to misplaced bridges, adding $800-$1,500 in repair costs.

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  • A technique for preventing pickguard cracks involves applying a base layer of crazy glue before attaching the new pickguard.

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Build quality

  • 1970s and 1980s D-45s often feature unscalloped bracing and heavy rosewood bridge plates, which may affect their sound and market value.

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  • It's noted that dreadnoughts from the 1970s often have bridges misplaced by about 1/16", affecting intonation.

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Value and pricing

  • A 1988 D-45 retailed for approximately $4,500; current listings show prices ranging from $6,000 to $8,000.

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  • A 1970 D-28 needing repairs is considered overpriced at $2,500, with some owners valuing similar models at around $1,500 if using Indian rosewood.

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Features and functionality

  • The D-45v and D-45 retro models include forward-shifted bracing, contrasting with older models which typically have rear-shifted bracing.

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User experience

  • Some owners describe early 70s Martins as having a rich presence and character, despite known quality inconsistencies from that era.

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Artist usage

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See how Johnny Marr uses Martin D-45 ( 70's)

Johnny Marr

Singer, Guitarist

Modest Mouse

...
Verified via Photo

Used on 'Back To The Old House'.

Source: www.smithsonguitar.com/2008/12/johnny-marrs-gear.html

Genre Usage

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

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