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Average Price: $2,713
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$601+
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Description
The Martin Custom Shop D-28 is a masterpiece of craftsmanship that embodies the rich heritage and meticulous artistry of Martin guitars. This steel-string acoustic guitar is a part of Martin's prestigious Custom Shop series, renowned for its unparalleled quality and attention to detail. With a design rooted in tradition yet enhanced for modern playability, the D-28 offers a harmonious blend of tonal richness and powerful projection, making it an ideal choice for both studio recording and live performances.
At the heart of the D-28 is its solid Sitka spruce top, which delivers a balanced, resonant sound. The East Indian rosewood back and sides contribute a deep, warm tone, while the mahogany neck provides a comfortable playing experience. The guitar features a sleek, high-performance taper neck profile, ensuring smooth transitions across the fretboard. Its forward-shifted X-bracing enhances the guitar's projection and sustain.
Whether you're a seasoned performer or an aspiring musician, the Martin Custom Shop D-28 is crafted to inspire, offering exceptional playability and a timeless sound. Its classic looks are complemented by understated appointments, including a hand-fitted dovetail neck joint and a polished gloss finish that allows the natural wood grain to shine.
Key Features:
- Solid Sitka spruce top for balanced, resonant sound
- East Indian rosewood back and sides for a warm tone
- Mahogany neck with high-performance taper profile
- Forward-shifted X-bracing for enhanced projection and sustain
- Hand-fitted dovetail neck joint
- Polished gloss finish
Product specs
| Brand | Martin |
| Model | D-28 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars |
| Active Preamp | No |
| Body Shape | Dreadnought |
| Model Family | Martin D-28 |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup | None |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Martin Custom Shop |
| String Type | Steel |
FAQs
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What type of wood is used in the Martin Custom Shop D-28, and how does it affect the sound?
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The Martin Custom Shop D-28 typically features a Sitka spruce top with East Indian rosewood back and sides. This combination provides a balanced tone with powerful bass, clear mids, and bright trebles, making it versatile for various playing styles.
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Is the Martin Custom Shop D-28 suitable for fingerstyle playing?
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Yes, the Martin Custom Shop D-28 is suitable for fingerstyle playing. Its dreadnought body shape and responsive tonewoods offer a rich, full sound that complements fingerpicking techniques well.
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How does the Martin Custom Shop D-28 compare to the standard D-28 in terms of craftsmanship?
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The Martin Custom Shop D-28 offers enhanced craftsmanship, with more personalized attention to detail, allowing for custom specifications and higher-end materials compared to the standard D-28.
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Does the Martin Custom Shop D-28 come with a built-in pickup system?
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No, the Martin Custom Shop D-28 does not come with a built-in pickup system. It is designed as a traditional acoustic guitar, but external pickups can be added if amplification is needed.
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What is the neck profile like on the Martin Custom Shop D-28?
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The Martin Custom Shop D-28 typically features a modified low oval neck profile with a high-performance taper, offering comfortable playability for both strumming and fingerstyle techniques.
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Is the Martin Custom Shop D-28 a good choice for live performances?
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While the Martin Custom Shop D-28 delivers excellent acoustic sound, it lacks a built-in pickup, so an external pickup or microphone would be needed for live amplification. Its rich tone and projection make it a great choice for live acoustic settings.
Videos
Wildwood Guitars
Martin Guitars Custom Shop D-28 • SN: 2457236
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin Custom Shop D-28.
User experience
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Owners warn of potential binding issues common with Martins, suggesting that new models covered by warranty may offer peace of mind.
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One owner emphasized the D-28 as a "forever guitar," noting it may not cover all musical needs but remains a long-term staple.
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An owner reported a particularly vibrant resonance in the top of the D-28, describing it as "like a symphony playing a chord."
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Other
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Consistent reports of binding issues in newer Martins suggest potential long-term maintenance concerns, especially for models not covered by a warranty.
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Use cases and applications
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Some owners find the D-28's loud and bright tone ideal for live performances but less suited for studio work requiring a darker sound.
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The aged model's aesthetic, while appealing to some for its vintage vibe, may appear overly orange to others.
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Owners frequently mention the D-28 Custom Shop's suitability for bluegrass, attributing its standout performance to the Adirondack top and bracing.
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Comparisons
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A user preferred an Eastman solid wood dreadnought over a Martin D-28 due to its sound quality and more affordable price.
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Owners who compared the Martin D-28 to the Gibson J-45 noted that each model offers a distinct acoustic archetype, suggesting trying both before committing.
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Breedlove D-28 knock-offs and D-15 Centennial models are considered by some users as alternatives, depending on personal preference and feel.
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The modified V neck is less popular compared to the modified low oval neck, which is generally more well-regarded among players.
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The Custom Shop's Adirondack top and bracing are noted for mimicking the pre-war sound, often compared to Sitka spruce, but with a preference for its bluegrass performance.
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Setup and maintenance
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An owner had to return a D-28 due to sky-high action requiring a neck reset, highlighting the importance of checking action before purchase.
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The fixed truss rod in Custom Shop Authentics complicates adjustments, making setup critical; some owners found setups incompatible with their playing style.
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Features and functionality
Build quality
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The aged model's finish is notably thinner, enhancing resonance, and features rolled fingerboard edges, offering subtle tactile comfort.
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Mods and upgrades
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Golden Era bracing is highly recommended for its sweet, woody sound, with a modest upcharge, enhancing the tonal qualities significantly.
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