Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (3)
$3,199.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (52)
$3,399.00
Amazon
4.4 (15)
$3,699.99
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$3,249.99 New
$2,700.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (128)
$3,399.00
zZounds
5.0 (2)
$3,399.00
Thomann
5.0 (2)
$4,169.00 $4,111.00 $58.00
Gear4Music
£3,499.00

Average Price: $3,395

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Martin HD-28". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Product Description:

Step into the world of timeless craftsmanship and rich tonal quality with the Martin HD-28, a dreadnought acoustic guitar that perfectly embodies the essence of iconic acoustic sound. Embracing the legacy of the legendary D-28, the HD-28 is crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, giving birth to a vibrant, balanced tone that resonates the classic Martin sound.

The HD-28 Standard continues the tradition of the scalloped X-bracing pattern, introduced in the 1930s, delivering rich bass, ringing trebles, and a quick response. Its modified low oval neck ensures effortless playability, blending vintage character with modern comfort, and making complex chords and fingerstyle playing a breeze.

This guitar is not only a joy to play but also a sight to behold. Its vintage-inspired appointments, including herringbone trim, diamond fretboard inlay, and polished East Indian rosewood, lend an opulent yet understated elegance. This guitar is truly an heirloom, destined to create music for generations, growing richer in tone as the tonewoods mature.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides.
  • Classic scalloped X-bracing pattern for rich bass and ringing trebles.
  • Modified low oval neck for effortless playability.
  • 1 ¾" nut and 2 5/16" string spacing ideal for complex chords and fingerstyle playing.
  • Vintage-inspired appointments for visual appeal.
  • Produces a bold, balanced voice suitable for any musical genre.
  • Built to improve with age as the tonewoods mature.

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model Standard Series HD-28
Finish 1933 Ambertone, 1935 Sunburst, Natural
Year 2025
Made In United States
Categories Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Rosewood
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Brown, Natural, Tan
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Martin D-28
Model Sub-Family Martin HD-28
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
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 type of wood is used for the back and sides of the Martin HD-28?

The Martin HD-28 features rosewood for the back and sides, which contributes to its rich, resonant tone and strong bass response, ideal for a wide range of musical styles.

How does the bracing of the Martin HD-28 affect its sound?

The Martin HD-28 uses scalloped X-bracing, enhancing its projection and adding a distinctive tonal complexity with a balanced blend of warmth and clarity.

Is the Martin HD-28 suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the Martin HD-28's balanced tone and responsive dynamics make it well-suited for fingerstyle playing, providing clarity and articulation across all strings.

What is the neck profile of the Martin HD-28 like?

The Martin HD-28 features a Modified Low Oval neck profile with a High-Performance Taper, offering comfortable playability for various hand sizes and playing styles.

Does the Martin HD-28 come with any electronics for amplification?

No, the Martin HD-28 does not come with built-in electronics, emphasizing its pure acoustic sound. However, aftermarket pickups can be installed if amplification is needed.

What kind of finish does the Martin HD-28 have?

The Martin HD-28 features a gloss finish, which not only enhances its visual appeal but also protects the wood while allowing the guitar to resonate freely.

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Martin HD-28 Acoustic | CME Gear Demo | Alex Chadwick

Video thumbnail for Martin HD-28 Acoustic | CME  Gear Demo | Alex Chadwick by Chicago Music Exchange

Martin HD-28 Acoustic | CME Gear Demo | Alex Chadwick

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 vs HD-28 - What's the Difference? by Acoustic Letter

Martin D-28 vs HD-28 - What's the Difference?

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for Martin HD 28 Acoustic Guitar Demo by Guitar Center

Martin HD 28 Acoustic Guitar Demo

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for Martin HD28 vs. HD35 | Dreadnought Battle for the Ages by Alamo Music Center

Martin HD28 vs. HD35 | Dreadnought Battle for the Ages

Alamo Music Center

Alamo Music Center

Video thumbnail for Martin Standard Series HD-28 Standard Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar by Musician's Friend

Martin Standard Series HD-28 Standard Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for Martin HD-28 Reimagined - The Iconic Powerhouse! by Acoustic Letter

Martin HD-28 Reimagined - The Iconic Powerhouse!

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

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

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

Martin D-28 vs Martin HD-28

Guitar Gallery

Guitar Gallery

Video thumbnail for Martin D-28 VS HD-28 Review (No Talking) by Music Force Official

Martin D-28 VS HD-28 Review (No Talking)

Music Force Official

Music Force Official

Video thumbnail for Martin HD-28: Anatomy of the Iconic Dreadnought Guitar | Elderly Instruments by Elderly Instruments

Martin HD-28: Anatomy of the Iconic Dreadnought Guitar | Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Video thumbnail for 1981 Martin HD-28 Herringbone | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1981 Martin HD-28 Herringbone | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Experience the Legend: New Martin HD-28 Acoustic Guitar | In-Depth Review | Nick Brightwell presents by Studio 1 Vintage Guitars

Experience the Legend: New Martin HD-28 Acoustic Guitar | In-Depth Review | Nick Brightwell presents

Studio 1 Vintage Guitars

Studio 1 Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for Martin D28 VS HD28 by Btm Guitars

Martin D28 VS HD28

Btm Guitars

Btm Guitars

Video thumbnail for MARTIN HD-28 by session

MARTIN HD-28

session

session

Video thumbnail for Martin HD-28 2022 by Ian Meadows

Martin HD-28 2022

Ian Meadows

Ian Meadows

Video thumbnail for 1993 Martin HD28 Demo by Dom Winter

1993 Martin HD28 Demo

Dom Winter

Dom Winter

Video thumbnail for Martin HD-28 (2025) vs Martin HD-28 (Reimagined) by Guitar Gallery

Martin HD-28 (2025) vs Martin HD-28 (Reimagined)

Guitar Gallery

Guitar Gallery

Video thumbnail for 2025 NEW Martin HD-28 Guitar Demo by Acton Music雅登中国

2025 NEW Martin HD-28 Guitar Demo

Acton Music雅登中国

Acton Music雅登中国

Reviews

PROS

  • Deep, rich bass with balanced mids and highs

  • Exceptional craftsmanship with no visible glue drops

  • Stunning vintage aesthetics with herringbone trim and snowflake inlays

  • Effortless playability with modernized neck shape

  • Loud projection without needing aggressive strumming

  • Notable tonal purity without electronics

  • Unique ebony fretboard and bridge coloring

  • Highly percussive, suitable for various playing styles

  • Continues to improve in sound quality over time

  • Holds tune exceptionally well

CONS

  • Tuning pegs may require initial tightening

  • Potential issues with fret spurs and binding alignment

  • Finish can ding if not handled gently

  • Initial tightness requires time to open up

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin HD-28.

Use cases and applications

  • The HD-28, with its scalloped bracing, is appreciated for its softer tone and sustain, beneficial for genres requiring more resonance and bass.

    Source
  • The HD-28 shines with strumming and flat-picking but may not be ideal for fingerstyle due to its dreadnought body.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A suggestion is made that the 2025 D-28 with scalloped bracing might sound better for less money, but lacks herringbone aesthetics.

    Source
  • The 2025 D-28 with new bracing is described as louder but tinny, lacking the bass of the 2024 HD-28.

    Source
  • A few users prefer mahogany guitars like the D-18 for vocal accompaniment, citing that they blend better with human voices due to less treble brightness compared to rosewood.

    Source
  • The HD-28's midrange scoop is more pronounced than the D-28, leading to a fuller but not necessarily louder sound.

    Source
  • The HD-28 is noted for better bass response, making it more suitable for singing players needing to fill out the sonic spectrum compared to the D-18.

    Source
  • The D-35 offers a unique blend with dreadnought body and 000-style bracing, appreciated by fingerpicking enthusiasts.

    Source
  • The OM-28 offers better treble clarity and sparkle for fingerpicking compared to the dreadnought models.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Discounts up to 20% are reported on 2024 models, with some claiming they're hard to find due to increased demand.

    Source

User experience

  • The 2024 HD-28 is praised for its "huge" sound, with a friend commenting it sounds like it has an amp inside.

    Source
  • Some players find the "reimagined" HD-28 to have a hazy sound when strumming, suggesting exploring older models or considering a reimagined D-28 for strumming clarity.

    Source
  • Some owners report significant sound variation between individual HD-28 guitars, suggesting the importance of trying multiple units before purchasing.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners note the 2025 models are using less ebony, with thinner fretboards and spotted ebony, impacting aesthetics.

    Source
  • The HD-28's rosewood construction can lead to tonal inconsistencies, whereas mahogany models like the D-18 are noted for consistent quality.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Some users prefer the 2024 HD-28's herringbone binding and diamond fretboard markers over the standard dot markers on the newer models.

    Source

Other

  • There's a sentiment that individual Martin guitars can vary greatly in sound and quality, highlighting the importance of playing multiple units to find the right one.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Display models often have dull strings; checking different stores or requesting fresh strings can reveal a guitar's true sound.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 12 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Ray LaMontagne uses Martin HD-28

Ray LaMontagne

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Uberproaudio

According to Uberproaudio, Ray LaMontagne previously used a Martin HD-28 before transitioning to primarily using Bourgeois guitars.

See how Tyler Childers uses Martin HD-28

Tyler Childers

Guitarist, Singer

...
Verified via Photo

A picture of Tyler with his (2008?)Martin HD28.

See how Maggie Rogers uses Martin HD-28

Maggie Rogers

Singer

♀♀♀♀: The Collaboration

...
Verified via YouTube

In the performance of "Don't Forget Me" in the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge, Maggie Rogers is playing a Martin HD-28, as seen in the video published by BBCRadio1VEVO on YouTube.

See how John Moreland uses Martin HD-28

John Moreland

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

See the Martin website: www.martinguitar.com/players/john-moreland. He is one of the Martin Guitar Players, it states ‘John Moreland's preferred Martin guitar: HD-28’.

See how Thomas Rhett uses Martin HD-28

Thomas Rhett

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified

The features confirms that Thomas Rhett played a one-of-one Martin HD-28 guitar.

See how Pete Anderson uses Martin HD-28

Pete Anderson

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

"Pete’s main acoustics have been a Martin HD-28 or a Larrivee, but recently he’s been working with Robbie Brown, of Legend, designing “…the ultimate Pete Anderson acoustic guitar,” which is going to be called the Delta Bomber."

See how Riley Green uses Martin HD-28

Riley Green

Singer

...
Verified via Photo

On Riley's official Instagram, you can see him playing a Martin HD-28.

See how Anssi Kela uses Martin HD-28

Anssi Kela

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Gramex ry

In this blog post, Anssi Kela confirms that he uses the Martin HD-28

Then I noticed a Martin HD-28 on the wall. I looked at the price tag: fourteen grand. Absolutely insane. But I had to try it, of course. And that was an expensive mistake. I played one chord and immediately went: “Holy shit…” In the end, the investment was worth every penny. I began writing new songs with my new guitar, and these songs eventually formed my solo debut album Nummela. I finally learned the art of storytelling in song format and found my own voice as a songwriter. The Martin provided the framework for the change.

See how Ricky Byrd uses Martin HD-28

Ricky Byrd

Singer, Guitarist

Joan Jett and the Blackhearts

...
Verified via GuitarPlayer

In an interview with GuitarPlayer, Ricky Byrd stated that he uses an '87 Martin HD-28 in his studio.

See how Dave Stamey uses Martin HD-28

Dave Stamey

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video titled "Dave Stamey Corporal's Lament (unreleased)" by Dusty Vaquero, Dave Stamey is seen playing a new-production Martin HD-28 guitar. This video was filmed at J.M. Capriola's in Elko, Nevada, and produced with permission from the artist.

See how Caleb Stine uses Martin HD-28

Caleb Stine

Singer, Guitarist

Caleb Stine and The Brakemen

...
Verified via Instagram

Caleb Stine's primary guitar for practice and live performances is a 1976 Martin HD-28, as evidenced by a post on his Instagram account, @calebstinemusic. The post includes the hashtags #martinhd28, #fingerpicking, and #acousticguitar, and shows the guitar with a hole worn through the top from heavy play wear.

Album Usage

The Martin HD-28 has been featured on the following albums:

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 HD-28, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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mayheaven

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