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Description

The Martin D-28 (2017) is a timeless piece that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern enhancements, making it a staple for discerning guitarists. Known for its robust sound and enduring design, this iconic model is celebrated for its rich tonal quality and projection. Its dreadnought body shape offers a powerful sound, catering to both strumming and intricate fingerstyle playing.

Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides, the D-28 delivers a resonant voice that ages beautifully over time. The high-performance neck taper provides effortless playability, ensuring comfort across the fretboard. Martin has also incorporated a forward-shifted X-bracing pattern, which enhances the top's resonance, contributing to its dynamic tonal response.

Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Martin D-28 (2017) stands out as a reliable companion. With its historical significance and superior craftsmanship, this guitar remains a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top
  • East Indian rosewood back and sides
  • Forward-shifted X-bracing for enhanced resonance
  • High-performance neck taper for improved playability
  • Dreadnought body shape for powerful sound projection
  • Ebony fingerboard and bridge
  • Nickel open-gear tuners with butterbean knobs
  • 20 frets with a 25.4-inch scale length

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model Standard Series D-28
Finish Ambertone, Natural, Sunburst
Year 2005 - 2017
Made In United States
Categories Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Rosewood
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Brown, Natural, Orange
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Martin D-28
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin Standard Series
Sides Material Rosewood
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of the Martin D-28 Standard Series (2005-2017)?

The Martin D-28 Standard Series is renowned for its rich, full-bodied sound with strong bass, clear mids, and sparkling trebles, thanks to its solid spruce top and rosewood back and sides. This makes it ideal for a wide range of musical styles, from bluegrass to folk.

Is the Martin D-28 Standard Series (2005-2017) suitable for live performances?

While the Martin D-28 does not come with a built-in pickup, its powerful projection and balanced tone make it an excellent choice for live performances. However, to amplify the sound, you may need to use an external microphone or install a pickup system.

How does the neck profile of the Martin D-28 Standard Series (2005-2017) affect playability?

The Martin D-28 features a low oval neck profile, which provides comfortable playability for both strumming and fingerstyle techniques. This neck shape is particularly appreciated by players who prefer a traditional feel with a modern touch.

What type of music is the Martin D-28 Standard Series (2005-2017) best suited for?

The Martin D-28 is versatile and excels in genres like folk, country, bluegrass, and rock. Its dreadnought body shape and tonal balance make it a favorite among singer-songwriters and performers looking for a guitar with strong projection and rich sound.

Does the Martin D-28 Standard Series (2005-2017) require special maintenance?

Like all high-quality acoustic guitars, the Martin D-28 benefits from regular maintenance, including proper humidity control, periodic string changes, and cleaning of the fretboard and body. Proper care ensures longevity and optimal sound quality over time.

Peghead Nation

Peghead Nation

Martin D-28 (2017) Demo from Peghead Nation

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 (2017) Demo from Peghead Nation by Peghead Nation

Martin D-28 (2017) Demo from Peghead Nation

Peghead Nation

Peghead Nation

Video thumbnail for The D-28 (2017) by Martin Guitar

The D-28 (2017)

Martin Guitar

Martin Guitar

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 Review & Demo by Alamo Music Center

Martin D-28 Review & Demo

Alamo Music Center

Alamo Music Center

Video thumbnail for Corey Congilio compares the Martin D-18 vs. D-28 at Willcutt Guitars by Willcutt Guitars

Corey Congilio compares the Martin D-18 vs. D-28 at Willcutt Guitars

Willcutt Guitars

Willcutt Guitars

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 - New Specs for 2017! by Acoustic Letter

Martin D-28 - New Specs for 2017!

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 Comparison: 2016 vs 2017 by Acoustic Letter

Martin D-28 Comparison: 2016 vs 2017

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 (2017) Review - One Man's Guitar - onemanz.com by onemanzguitar

Martin D-28 (2017) Review - One Man's Guitar - onemanz.com

onemanzguitar

onemanzguitar

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 (2017) Versus Martin HD-28 by Gary Roberts

Martin D-28 (2017) Versus Martin HD-28

Gary Roberts

Gary Roberts

Video thumbnail for Corey Congilio compares the Martin D-28 vs. HD-28 at Willcutt Guitars by Willcutt Guitars

Corey Congilio compares the Martin D-28 vs. HD-28 at Willcutt Guitars

Willcutt Guitars

Willcutt Guitars

Video thumbnail for The Martin D-28 (2017) DEMO by Maury’s Music by Maury's Music

The Martin D-28 (2017) DEMO by Maury’s Music

Maury's Music

Maury's Music

Video thumbnail for The Martin D28 (2017) at MaurysMusic.com by Maury's Music

The Martin D28 (2017) at MaurysMusic.com

Maury's Music

Maury's Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound quality; every note is clear and true

  • Rich and powerful tone, surpasses many other acoustic guitars

  • Timeless design and playability that never goes out of style

  • Comfortable fretboard, praised over other high-end models like the Taylor 214ce

  • Remarkable craftsmanship, providing a unique and desirable aesthetic

  • Perfect neck angle enhances playability and comfort

  • Acclaimed for its incredible volume, even against similar high-end models

  • Highly regarded by long-time guitar owners, often chosen as a lifetime instrument

CONS

  • None noted in the reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin D-28 Standard Series (2005-2017).

Comparisons

  • In 2012, significant upgrades were made to the Standard Series, including ebony board and bridge, tortoise guard, open-back tuners, and a wider nut; these features are noted for enhancing the 2017 D-28 models.

    Source
  • Owners frequently compare the Martin D-28 favorably against Yamaha's Red Label guitars, noting a preference for Martin's tonal depth despite Yamaha's competitive pricing.

    Source
  • Martin D-28 is suggested over a Taylor 510 for those who prefer a bassier sound profile, highlighting its deeper tonal range.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Used 2008 Martin D-28s are commonly priced between $2000-$2200 USD in private US sales, with Canadian prices higher due to import costs.

    Source
  • Used Martin D-28 models are occasionally found on Reverb for under $2,000, especially if the seller is willing to negotiate after several months listed.

    Source

Other

  • The "175th Anniversary" designation on 2008 models is not indicative of special features beyond a stamp near the "C. F. Martin & Co." on the middle brace.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Martin D-28 provides a more varied tonal palette when paired with a dreadnought spruce top guitar, complementing female vocals effectively.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the Martin 000-15M appreciate its darker tonal quality, which requires less EQ adjustment for recording compared to brighter sounding guitars.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Martin D-28 (2017) Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Martin D-28 (2017) beautifully blends traditional craftsmanship with modern enhancements, delivering a rich tonal palette that's both powerful and nuanced. Its stunning aesthetics and meticulous build quality set it apart, making it a joy to play for both strumming and fingerstyle techniques. However, while the tonal complexity is impressive, some players might not notice significant differences due to the updated bracing design. Ultimately, this iconic guitar offers exceptional value, but potential buyers should try it alongside other models to find their perfect match.

positive

Martin D-28 Reimagined for 2017 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Martin D-28 (2017) is a stunning reimagining of a classic, boasting clarity and balance while maintaining its status as a benchmark dreadnought. Its enhanced aesthetics and comfortable neck design elevate playability, making it accessible for fingerstyle players. However, its hefty price tag may deter some, and the forward-shifted bracing might leave those seeking a booming bass a bit disappointed. While it excels in projection and tonal clarity, the D-28 may not match everyone's expectations regarding low-end power. Overall, it's an alluring upgrade that pays homage to its storied legacy without losing its essence.

positive

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