Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
Average Price: $7,440
High-end/Boutique
$200
$601+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe is a stunning fusion of tradition and innovation, redefining what an acoustic guitar can offer. This guitar boasts a Vintage Tone System (VTS) spruce top that has been torrefied to capture the resonant magic of a vintage Martin from the golden era, offering an unparalleled harmonic richness. Paired with solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, the D-42 delivers a deep, complex tone that is both bold and intricate.
Its craftsmanship is evident not only in sound but also in its visual appeal. From the elegant European flamed maple binding to the gold EVO frets and opulent abalone inlays, this guitar is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the ears. The neck, inspired by a 1930 OM-45 Deluxe, features a slight asymmetrical shape for enhanced playability, ensuring comfort from the first fret to the last.
Modern enhancements include a carbon fiber bridge plate and Liquidmetal bridge pins, both designed to boost projection and sustain without compromising the guitar's lightweight feel. The D-42 Modern Deluxe is a masterpiece that respects its storied heritage while embracing the needs of today’s discerning musicians.
Key Features:
- Spruce top with Vintage Tone System (VTS)
- Solid East Indian rosewood back and sides
- European flamed maple binding
- Gold EVO frets and abalone inlays
- Asymmetrical neck shape for comfort and playability
- Carbon fiber bridge plate for enhanced projection
- Liquidmetal bridge pins for boosted output
- Comes with a hardshell case
Product specs
| String Type | Steel |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Shape | D-42 Modern Deluxe |
| Back & Sides Wood | East Indian Rosewood |
| Top Wood | Spruce |
| Body Bracing | Adirondack Spruce Forward-shifted X-bracing |
| Binding | European Flamed Maple |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Vintage Deluxe |
| Radius | 16" |
| Fingerboard Material | Ebony |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Abalone with Mother-of-Pearl Snowflakes |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Scale Length | 25.4" |
| Nut Width | 1.75" |
| Nut/Saddle Material | Bone/Bone |
| Bridge Material | Ebony |
| Tuning Machines | Open Gear with Gold buttons |
| Strings | Martin, .013-.056 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What type of wood is used in the construction of the Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe?
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The Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe features a spruce top with VTS (Vintage Tone System) and East Indian rosewood for the back and sides, providing a rich and resonant tone.
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What is the neck shape of the Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe, and how does it affect playability?
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The neck of the Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe is crafted from mahogany with a Vintage Deluxe shape, offering a comfortable grip and ease of play, especially for traditional and fingerstyle players.
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How does the Adirondack Spruce Forward-shifted X-bracing impact the sound of the Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe?
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The Adirondack Spruce Forward-shifted X-bracing enhances the guitar's projection and tonal clarity, producing a vibrant and dynamic sound ideal for various playing styles.
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Is the Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe is well-suited for live performances due to its powerful projection and rich tonal qualities, making it a favorite among professional musicians.
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What kind of case is included with the Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe?
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The Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe comes with a hardshell case, providing excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage.
Videos
Peach Guitars
No Talking...Just Tones | Martin Modern Deluxe Series | D-42 Modern Deluxe
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional craftsmanship and construction quality
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Stunning aesthetic appeal and visual beauty
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Smooth, effortless neck for easy fretboard transitions
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Inspires creativity, especially with fingerpicking
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Remarkable sound quality with terrific tonewoods
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Superior playability for both rhythm and flat-picking
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Highly recommended by experienced players
CONS
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High price point may deter budget-conscious buyers
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe.
Build quality
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Some owners experienced bridge cracking and delamination issues, but Martin's warranty covers repairs including neck resets and shipping.
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The D-42 Modern Deluxe includes a titanium truss rod, EVO frets, and gold-colored open-back Waverly tuners, contributing to its premium feel and durability.
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Features and functionality
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The carbon fiber bridge plate is glued only to the top, not the bracing, minimizing impact from differing expansion rates compared to wood.
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The "Audigo" mic, praised for its ease of use and superior recording quality, is recommended for capturing the D-42's sound in video recordings.
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The maple binding is praised for addressing common issues with Martin's plastic binding, enhancing longevity and aesthetics.
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The use of fish glue on the top bracing is a distinctive feature of the Modern Deluxe line, contributing to its unique build.
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Comparisons
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The D-42 Modern Deluxe is described as being louder and more balanced than a D-41 and comparable to boutique models like Goodall or Yamaha 56 series.
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The 2025 Martin D-42 is favored over a Collings D1 Traditional for its dynamic range and captivating tone, despite the Collings being described as tight and bright.
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The D-28 Modern Deluxe is consistently described as the best-sounding model among D-18, D-28, and HD-28 guitars, impressing users with its tonal quality.
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The Modern Deluxe package is considered a cost-effective alternative to custom shop upgrades, offering high-end features at a more accessible price point.
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Mods and upgrades
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Liquid Metal bridge pins are claimed to add about 5% more volume, but some users prefer bone pins for lighter weight and potentially different tonal characteristics.
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Owners suggest avoiding Martin Kovar strings, preferring alternatives like d’Addario XT lights for enhanced tonal quality.
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User experience
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A two-year owner notes the Modern Deluxe's tone as akin to a bespoke luthier build, with increased clarity and articulation compared to standard Martins.
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The D-42 MD is reported to have significant bass, though this can vary between individual guitars, impacting perceived tonal balance.
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An owner highlights the D-42's superb neck feel, noting its comfort and playability as standout features.
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The D-42 is said to release notes effortlessly with a light touch, enhancing its musicality and responsiveness.
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