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Average Price: $7,575
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$601+
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Description
Discover the Martin D-21, a steel-string acoustic guitar that beautifully marries classic craftsmanship with modern innovation. This limited-edition masterpiece, with only 300 units available worldwide, is a testament to Martin's dedication to superior sound and aesthetics. Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, this guitar delivers a resonant, full-bodied sound that's both powerful and nuanced. Whether you're strumming along to folk ballads or fingerpicking intricate melodies, the D-21's voice cuts through with clarity and warmth.
The forward-shifted scalloped bracing enhances projection and tonal balance, ensuring that each note rings true. Its high-performance neck, fashioned from mahogany with a Modified Low Oval profile, offers unmatched comfort and playability, making it an ideal choice for both stage performances and intimate studio sessions. Adding to its allure are the tasteful appointments like faux tortoise body binding, nickel open-gear tuners with Butterbean knobs, and a polished gloss finish that adds a touch of elegance.
This guitar's distinct sonic character and aesthetic charm make it a versatile companion for a wide array of musical genres. It’s not just a guitar; it’s a piece of history waiting to be part of your musical journey.
Key Features:
- Limited edition of 300 instruments worldwide
- Solid Sitka spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides
- Forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing for enhanced projection
- High-performance mahogany neck with Modified Low Oval profile
- East Indian rosewood fingerboard with Mother-of-pearl inlays
- Nickel open-gear tuners with Butterbean knobs
- Polished gloss finish on top, back, and sides; satin finish on neck
Product specs
| Brand | Martin |
| Model | D-21 |
| Finish | Natural |
| Year | 1964 - 1970 |
| 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 | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Martin D-21 |
| 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
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What is the tonewood combination of the Martin D-21 and how does it affect the sound?
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The Martin D-21 features a spruce top and rosewood back and sides, delivering a balanced tone with clear highs and rich lows. This combination is known for producing a full-bodied sound, ideal for various playing styles.
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Is the Martin D-21 suitable for fingerstyle playing?
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Yes, the Martin D-21's dreadnought body shape and rosewood fretboard provide a responsive and dynamic range, making it suitable for fingerstyle as well as strumming.
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How does the Martin D-21 compare to other Martin dreadnought models?
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The Martin D-21 sits between the D-18 and D-28 in terms of features and tone. It offers the rich sound of rosewood like the D-28 but with simpler appointments, making it a more understated choice.
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Does the Martin D-21 have an active preamp or pickup system?
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No, the Martin D-21 does not come with an active preamp or pickup system. It is a fully acoustic guitar, designed for pure acoustic sound.
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What is the neck profile of the Martin D-21 like?
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The Martin D-21 features a mahogany neck with a traditional profile that offers a comfortable grip, suitable for various hand sizes and playing styles.
Videos
Carter Vintage Backstage
Martin D-21 Special Acoustic Guitar Played By Anthony da Costa
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin D-21.
Build quality
Setup and maintenance
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Neck reset can cost around $450, and a full restoration may run close to $1000.
Source
Value and pricing
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A 1966 Martin D-21 purchased for $1500, with repairs, is estimated to be worth over $6000.
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Comparisons
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The D-21 is less common than D-18s and D-28s, with a smaller body size noted.
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Mods and upgrades
Use cases and applications
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Owners emphasize prioritizing sound and playability over cosmetic appearance, suggesting the D-21's tonal capabilities outweigh its visual inconsistencies.
Source
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
According to Fortus' website, he has the 1962 Martin D-21 listed under his gear.
Masayoshi Takanaka is confirmed to use a Martin D-21 acoustic guitar, specifically a model made in 1967, which he acquired in Los Angeles. This information is supported by a post shared by the Instagram user "ilovetakanaka," which references details from “Super Guitar Magazine” in 1982. The Martin D-21 is noted for its rarity and value due to its limited production numbers.
In this article you can see his D-21 sold for 50k and was authenticated by his estate. They also made a Jim Croce signature model D-21.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Martin D-21, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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