Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (8)
$4,599.99
Guitar Center
$4,599.99
Reverb
$5,199.99 9 available New
Musician's Friend
$4,599.99
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$4,599.99
Thomann
$5,111.00 $5,099.00 $12.00 · All time low

Average Price: $4,757

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

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

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Description

The Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe is a masterful blend of tradition and innovation, designed for the discerning guitarist. This acoustic-electric guitar boasts a compact orchestra body that is ideal for fingerpicking, allowing it to blend seamlessly with larger-bodied guitars in ensemble settings. At its heart is the Vintage Tone System (VTS), which torrefies the solid Sitka spruce top to emulate the rich sound of a well-aged Martin. The result? A tone that is as full-bodied and resonant as it is unique.

Aesthetically, the OM-28E Modern Deluxe is nothing short of stunning. It features elegant European flamed maple binding, gold frets, and gold open-gear tuners, all accentuated by a 1930s-style pearl-inlaid script logo on the headstock. Modern advancements like a carbon fiber bridge plate and Liquidmetal bridge pins, which enhance volume without adding weight, ensure that this guitar doesn't just look beautiful—it performs beautifully too.

The neck is crafted for comfort, with an ultra-low profile and a slightly asymmetrical shape that provides an ergonomic playing experience. Constructed with dovetail neck joints and natural protein glue, this guitar retains the classic Martin tone that has captivated musicians for generations.

The OM-28E Modern Deluxe comes equipped with a premium Fishman Aura VT Blend pickup system, ensuring that its rich acoustic sounds translate perfectly in any amplified setting. This guitar is a standout choice for musicians seeking the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern sophistication.

Key Features:

  • Vintage Tone System (VTS) Sitka spruce top
  • Solid East Indian rosewood back and sides
  • Custom neck shape for maximum comfort
  • Liquidmetal bridge pins with red acrylic dots
  • Carbon fiber bridge plate for enhanced volume
  • Fishman Aura VT Blend pickup system
  • Elegant European flamed maple binding
  • Gold frets and gold open-gear tuners
  • Includes hardshell case

Product specs

String Type Steel
Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Orchestra
Back & Sides Wood East Indian Rosewood
Top Wood Spruce
Finish Gloss
Body Bracing X-bracing
Binding European Flamed Maple
Neck Wood Mahogany
Neck Shape Vintage Deluxe
Radius 16"
Fingerboard Inlay Abalone Diamonds and Squares
Number of Frets 20
Scale Length 25.4"
Nut Width 1.75"
Nut/Saddle Material Bone/Bone
Bridge Material Ebony
Tuning Machines Gold Open Gear
Strings Lifespan 2.0 92/8 Phosphor Bronze, .012-.054
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the construction of the Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe?

The Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe features a spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides, providing a rich and balanced tonal quality.

Is the Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe is well-suited for fingerstyle due to its orchestra body shape and balanced tone, which enhances clarity and definition in fingerstyle techniques.

What is the neck profile of the Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe?

The Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe has a Vintage Deluxe neck shape with a standard taper, offering a comfortable grip for both strumming and intricate fingerwork.

Does the Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe come with a case?

Yes, the Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe includes a hardshell case for secure transport and protection of the guitar.

What kind of electronics does the Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe have?

The Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe is equipped with modern electronics that allow for easy amplification, making it suitable for live performances.

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

First Look - Martin OM 28 Modern Deluxe

Video thumbnail for First Look - Martin OM 28 Modern Deluxe by Premier Guitar

First Look - Martin OM 28 Modern Deluxe

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for The Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe at MaurysMusic.com by Maury's Music

The Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe at MaurysMusic.com

Maury's Music

Maury's Music

Video thumbnail for Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe guitar demo in Stageshop by Stageshop

Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe guitar demo in Stageshop

Stageshop

Stageshop

Reviews

PROS

  • Competes with custom shop models in tone quality

  • Bright highs without piercing, balanced mids and bass

  • Exceptional note separation enhances fingerpicking clarity

  • Neck design guides thumb to secure position

  • Comfortable playing with minimal pressure

  • Aesthetic balance between bling and subtlety

  • Lightweight and resonant with rich harmonics

  • Wider string spacing favored for fingerstyle techniques

  • High-quality construction and playability

  • Lifetime satisfaction without need for upgrade

CONS

  • Neck heavier due to non-titanium truss rod

  • May not suit players who wrap thumb around neck

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The OM-28E Modern Deluxe features a torrefied top and bracing, enhancing resonance and giving the guitar a more "open" sound from the start.

    Source
  • Liquid Metal bridge pins and EVO frets are included, though some users feel these upgrades don't significantly impact the guitar's tone.

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Build quality

  • The neck of the OM-28E Modern Deluxe is wider, which some owners find more suitable for certain playing styles, though it may challenge flat-picking.

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Comparisons

  • The OM-28E Modern Deluxe has a louder and more modern sound compared to the standard OM-28, yet it retains the classic Martin bass response.

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  • The OM-28E Modern Deluxe is perceived as too flashy by some, preferring the understated aesthetics of the standard OM-28.

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  • The 000-28 MD offers a modern bright sound, while the Authentic models are favored by some for a vintage dry, woody tone suitable for 70s folk and fingerstyle.

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  • A preference for Mahogany on the 18 models is noted, but the Modern Deluxe series is still highly regarded for its performance.

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User experience

  • The carbon fiber bridge plate in the OM-28E Modern Deluxe is noted to improve sound transmission to the soundboard, resulting in enhanced sustain.

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  • Owners describe the OM-28E Modern Deluxe as having resonance and sustain that rival Martin's Authentic series, making it a standout in Martin's lineup.

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Use cases and applications

  • OMs with a 25.4" scale can achieve a wider dynamic range and acoustic compression, ideal for powerful playing styles.

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  • The Modern Deluxe series is praised for its ability to potentially end a buyer's search for the perfect guitar, indicating its high satisfaction rate among owners.

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Setup and maintenance

  • One owner found Ernie Ball Earthwood Medium Light Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings (12-54 Gauge) optimal for the OM-28, despite initially using the stock Martin strings.

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Value and pricing

  • A standard OM-28 was negotiated to $3,100 from an initial offer of $3,200, reflecting the potential for discounts at smaller retailers compared to big chains.

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  • One owner secured a brand new OM-28E Modern Deluxe for $3,500, highlighting potential savings compared to typical retail prices.

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Mods and upgrades

  • An owner suggests replacing the stock Martin strings with Elixir strings for improved sound quality, as the stock strings reportedly underperform.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe - Peghead Nation

pegheadnation.com

The Martin OM-28E Modern Deluxe beautifully merges vintage aesthetics with modern tech, boasting a bright, clear tone and impressive dynamic range. Its standout features include a carbon-fiber bridge plate and Fishman Aura VT Blend electronics that deliver exceptional amplified sound. However, the hefty price tag of $5,799 may deter some players. While it doesn’t completely reinvent the classic OM design, it does refine and enhance it, making it a solid choice for those seeking an elevated playing experience. For musicians looking for a versatile, mid-size guitar, this model certainly deserves a spot on your shortlist.

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