Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$3,399.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (12)
$3,399.00
Amazon
4.6 (4)
$3,699.98
Reverb
5.0 (32)
$3,399.00 New
$2,245.85 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (94)
$3,399.00
zZounds
$3,399.00
Thomann
5.0 (2)
$4,169.00
Gear4Music
£3,399.00

Average Price: $3,389

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Martin D-35". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Martin D-35 Acoustic Guitar: A Classic with a Modern Twist

Born from the folk music boom of the 1960s, the Martin D-35 acoustic guitar has been a favorite among musicians for its unique three-piece back design and rich tonal variations. Originally created due to a shortage of rosewood, this instrument quickly became a standard in the industry for its unique aesthetic and distinctive sound.

Today's D-35 has been finely tuned to combine the best of vintage appointments with the playability of a modern guitar. The placement of the 1/4” bracing has been forward-shifted, creating a balanced bass with a harmonious blend of mid and high-end frequencies. Alongside its distinctive sound, the modified low oval neck and Performing Artist taper offer improved playability, making the transition from electric to acoustic smoother.

The D-35 is not just about sound and playability. Its aesthetic details are equally impressive, featuring a solid spruce top, solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, an ebony bridge and fingerboard, and an antique white binding. All these elements come together to create a guitar that looks as good as it sounds.

Key Features:

  • Solid spruce top for powerful projection and note clarity
  • Solid East Indian rosewood back and sides for a rich, resonant tone
  • Modified low oval neck with Performing Artist taper for smooth playability
  • Forward-shifted 1/4" X brace for a balanced bass response
  • Ebony bridge and fingerboard for a sleek, modern look
  • Hand-fit dovetail neck joint for enhanced stability
  • Nitrocellulose lacquer for a vintage, glossy finish
  • Mother-of-pearl fingerboard inlay pattern for a touch of elegance
  • Aging toner for a timeless aesthetic
  • Bone nut and saddle for superior sustain and resonance
  • Includes a hardshell case for protection and transportation

Product specs

String Type Steel
Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape D-35 Standard Dreadnought
Back & Sides Wood Solid East Indian Rosewood
Top Wood Solid Spruce
Top Finish Gloss
Body Bracing Forward Shifted X-brace
Binding Antique White
Neck Wood Select Hardwood
Neck Finish Satin
Neck Shape GE Modified Low Oval
Radius 16"
Fingerboard Inlay Style 28
Number of Frets 20
Scale Length 25.4"
Nut Width 1.75"
Nut Material Bone
Saddle Material Compensated Bone
Bridge Material Ebony
Tuning Machines Nickel Open-gear
Strings Martin Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0, .013-.056
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What is the primary wood used for the back and sides of the Martin D-35?

The Martin D-35 features solid East Indian rosewood for the back and sides, which contributes to its rich, warm tone and powerful projection.

How does the Martin D-35's neck profile affect playability?

The Martin D-35 has a GE Modified Low Oval neck shape, providing a comfortable grip that is well-suited for both strumming and fingerstyle playing.

What kind of bracing does the Martin D-35 use, and how does it impact the sound?

The Martin D-35 utilizes forward shifted X-bracing, which enhances the guitar's bass response and overall resonance, offering a balanced and dynamic sound.

Is the Martin D-35 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Martin D-35 is an excellent choice for live performances due to its powerful projection and balanced tone, making it a favorite among professional musicians.

Does the Martin D-35 come with a case?

Yes, the Martin D-35 comes with a hardshell case, providing excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage.

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Martin D-35 Review

Video thumbnail for Martin D-35 Review by Acoustic Letter

Martin D-35 Review

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for Martin D-35 vs HD-35 - Review and Comparison by Acoustic Letter

Martin D-35 vs HD-35 - Review and Comparison

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 vs D-35 : Classic Rosewood Dreadnoughts by Ian Meadows

Martin D-28 vs D-35 : Classic Rosewood Dreadnoughts

Ian Meadows

Ian Meadows

Video thumbnail for Why I prefer The Martin D35 (compared to other Martin guitars) by Jon is just TOO LouD!!

Why I prefer The Martin D35 (compared to other Martin guitars)

Jon is just TOO LouD!!

Jon is just TOO LouD!!

Video thumbnail for Martin D-35 Standard Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar by Musician's Friend

Martin D-35 Standard Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for Martin D-35 vs. Martin D-28 2017 Comparison - Folkway Music by Folkway Music

Martin D-35 vs. Martin D-28 2017 Comparison - Folkway Music

Folkway Music

Folkway Music

Video thumbnail for Martin 2018 NEW D-35 Review & Demo by Alamo Music Center

Martin 2018 NEW D-35 Review & Demo

Alamo Music Center

Alamo Music Center

Video thumbnail for Unboxing a Martin D-35 Acoustic Guitar! by Sean Daniel

Unboxing a Martin D-35 Acoustic Guitar!

Sean Daniel

Sean Daniel

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 vs HD-28 vs D-35 by Guitar Gallery

Martin D-28 vs HD-28 vs D-35

Guitar Gallery

Guitar Gallery

Reviews

PROS

  • Rich and vibrant tone that stands out among other models

  • Smooth action and comfortable playability for a dreadnought

  • Excellent sustain, making it ideal for extended play

  • Forward shifted 1/4" bracing enhances sound clarity and richness

  • Versatile sound, from crisp highs to growling bass

  • High-quality construction with Rosewood back and spruce top

  • Factory setup praised for being low and smooth

  • Distinctive three-piece back adds to aesthetic and sonic appeal

  • Ideal for both strumming and picking styles

  • Offers a loud, clear sound that projects well

CONS

  • Initial high string action may require professional setup adjustments

  • Susceptible to humidity; proper care needed to prevent warping

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin D-35.

Build quality

  • The D-35 features lighter bracing at 1/4" width, contributing to its unique tonal characteristics compared to the standard D-28 and D-18.

    Source
  • The D-35's fretboard often features distinctive streaks, providing an artistic and unique appearance that many owners appreciate over traditional dark ebony boards.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The D-35 has a three-piece back, originally introduced to make use of smaller pieces of Brazilian rosewood.

    Source
  • The three-piece back of the D-35 is frequently praised for its aesthetic appeal, even though it's a feature not often visible during play.

    Source

User experience

  • Many players report the D-35 as a "lifer" guitar, often comparing its heirloom quality to luxury items like a Rolex.

    Source
  • Some owners report a mid scoop, making it suitable for singer-songwriter applications and providing a piano-like sound when played softly.

    Source
  • Heavier and distinct from the D-28, the D-35 is favored by some users for folk music due to its unique tonal characteristics.

    Source
  • Owners describe the D-35 as highly responsive, offering both subtle and powerful sound dynamics based on the player's technique.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users find the D-35 has richer tones for solo play, whereas the D-28 might be better for band settings due to its different tonal profile.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's been noted that the D-35 provides the quintessential Martin sound, making it ideal for covering artists like Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan.

    Source
  • The D-35 is noted for its wide range of opportunities, having been used by artists like Pink Floyd and Johnny Cash in various recordings.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A luthier may resolve high action issues by adjusting the high saddle and low neck angle commonly found on some D-35s.

    Source
  • Regular use of humidifier packs during "case breaks" can maintain the guitar's sound, especially with heavier gauge strings.

    Source
  • Regularly taking the tension off the strings and using humidifiers during case breaks is recommended to maintain the guitar's condition and sound quality.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing string holders with ebony can brighten the tone significantly.

    Source
  • D'Addario Nickel Bronze strings in 12-56 gauge are recommended for enhancing the punchy rhythm qualities of the D-35.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 23 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
C

Best acoustic guitar ever!

Like everything about it. Tone, clarity, bass, ect. Their is not 1 thing wrong with it

skylinerr

Love it

this is a 1978 Martin D35, it has had the bracing reglued and the neck re set into the body.

Genres:
rikoflishas

okay

J

Man, I LOVE this guitar---keep it tuned in Open G

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Bill Withers uses Martin D-35

Bill Withers

Singer, Guitarist

Creative Source

...
Verified via Twitter

It's clear that he generally uses a martin dreadnaught in his performances, but in this post by Martin Guitars on twitter they tell us it's a D35

See how Mike Pinder uses Martin D-35

Mike Pinder

Keyboardist

The Moody Blues

...
Verified via PhotoBucket

In this screenshot of the liner notes for "The Promise" by Mike Pinder, he is credited with playing Martin D-35 on the song "Someone to Believe In."

See how William Fitzsimmons uses Martin D-35

William Fitzsimmons

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video interview by Acoustic Guitar Magazine William is asked about his Martin D-35.

See how Gene Clark uses Martin D-35

Gene Clark

Singer, Guitarist

The Byrds

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Gene can be seen using Martin D-35.

See how Sean Watkins uses Martin D-35

Sean Watkins

Guitarist

Fiction Family

...
Verified via Premierguitar

"Around the time I was 12, I started messing with it—I think it was an older Martin D-35 that my dad had … it was a Martin dreadnought for sure. And I just started practicing. For the first few years in Nickel Creek, I played mandolin and Chris played guitar, but I remember the day when it clicked: All of a sudden I could play rhythm, and it worked."

See how George Jones uses Martin D-35

George Jones

Guitarist, Singer

Georgie and The Monarchs

...
Verified via Photo

Photo shows George Jones with D-35 acoustic. Also see: https://youtu.be/MAcvNOrckR8

See how Mac Powell uses Martin D-35

Mac Powell

Guitarist, Singer

Third Day

...
Verified via Martinguitar

According to Martin's website, Powell uses Martin D-35.

See how Benny Yurco uses Martin D-35

Benny Yurco

Guitarist, Bassist

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals

...
Verified via YouTube

In the band's Rig Rundown video, Benny Yurco says "This beautiful guitar is a 1969 Martin D-35, which my daddy got and he gave to me"

See how Tito Larriva uses Martin D-35

Tito Larriva

Singer, Guitarist

Tito & Tarantula

...
Verified

Mentioned in the "Rockfile" on Cruzados (by Marie A. Cruz) featured in the May 1986 issue of Guitar for the Practicing Musician (specifically on page 35).

INSTRUMENTS: With the success of this album, I was able to purchase more guitars. Right now I have two '67 Telecasters, one of which is a Thinline model with an F-hole in it. Then I have two acoustic guitars, a Martin D35 and a nylon string. To me, an acoustic guitar is real important for songwriting because it gives you a real good idea if a holds up on its own. That's the final test.

R

Rob Taylor

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Los Campesinos!

...
Verified via Getty Images

He plays a Martin D-35 with Fishman pickup live

See how Julie Byrne uses Martin D-35

Julie Byrne

Guitarist, Singer

...
Verified via YouTube

Julie Byrne playing a 1976 Martin D-35 inherited from his father on her Tiny Desk performance https://www.theskinny.co.uk/music/interviews/sacred-places-julie-byrne-interviewed

See how Stu Larsen uses Martin D-35

Stu Larsen

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Facebook

Artist responds himself in a question on Facebook telling he plays Martin CEO7/2014, OM28v/2007, O18/1927 and D35/1973

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-35, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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adam_reynolds

adam_reynolds

Gear IQ 155

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