Martin acoustic guitars are renowned worldwide for their superior craftsmanship, rich tones, and timeless designs. Originating from the United States, each Martin guitar is crafted by hand, guaranteeing top-notch quality and providing musicians with an instrument that delivers exceptional sound. However, to ensure your Martin guitar performs at its peak, choosing the right model is essential.
The best Martin acoustic guitar should not only sound great but should also be comfortable to play, durable, and have a design that resonates with you. Different Martin models come with varying tonewood combinations, body sizes, and other features that will appeal to different players. Therefore, finding the right fit can immensely elevate your performance and playing experience.
If you buy just any Martin guitar without considering its features, you might end up with one that doesn’t meet your specific needs or preferences. It’s important to check factors like the guitar’s tonewood, body shape, budget, and preferred playing style. By selecting the wrong combination, you could wind up with a guitar that doesn’t resonate with you (both literally and metaphorically).
Through rigorous testing and comprehensive research, we have identified the best Martin acoustic guitars available on the market to aid in your decision-making process. By considering the guitars’ features like tonal characteristics, playability, and build quality, we have compiled a list to suit different player’s tastes and preferences. At the end of this article, you will be better informed and more confident about choosing the right Martin acoustic guitar for you.
Best Martin Acoustic Guitars
Selecting the perfect Martin acoustic guitar for your needs is crucial for its durability, and more importantly, for delivering your unique musical expressions. Different models cater to different musical styles, tonal preferences, and player’s needs. Given an abundance of options on the market, it might be overwhelming to choose the right one. However, do not worry. Here, we’ve compiled a list of the top-performing Martin acoustic guitars that we’ve personally tested and think are worth your consideration. This list will surely help you make a well-informed decision.
Martin Guitar Road Series GPC-11E Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Gig Bag, Sitka Spruce and Sapele Construction, GPC-14 Fret and Performing Artist Neck Shape with High-Performance Taper Natural
If you’re looking for a high-quality acoustic-electric guitar that won’t break the bank, the Martin Guitar Road Series GPC-11E is a great option.
Pros
- The solid Sitka spruce top and sapele back and sides produce a rich, full sound that is perfect for both practice and performance.
- The GPC-14 fret and performing artist neck shape with high-performance taper make it easy to play, even for beginners.
- The guitar comes with a durable and protective gig bag, making it easy to transport and protect your investment.
Cons
- The guitar is not suitable for heavy-duty gigging or touring, as it does not come with a hardshell case.
- The soundhole rosette is simple, which may not be to everyone’s taste.
- The guitar is only available in a natural finish, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a more colorful instrument.
We’ve been playing the Martin Guitar Road Series GPC-11E for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its sound and playability. The solid Sitka spruce top and sapele back and sides produce a rich, full sound that is perfect for both practice and performance. The GPC-14 fret and performing artist neck shape with high-performance taper make it easy to play, even for beginners. We also appreciate that the guitar comes with a durable and protective gig bag, which makes it easy to transport and protect our investment.
While the guitar is not suitable for heavy-duty gigging or touring, as it does not come with a hardshell case, it is still a great option for those who are looking for a high-quality acoustic-electric guitar at a reasonable price. The soundhole rosette is simple, which may not be to everyone’s taste, but we think it adds to the guitar’s understated elegance. Finally, the guitar is only available in a natural finish, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a more colorful instrument, but we think the natural finish looks great.
Overall, we highly recommend the Martin Guitar Road Series GPC-11E to anyone who is looking for a high-quality acoustic-electric guitar that won’t break the bank. It’s a great investment for both beginners and experienced players alike.
Martin Guitar X Series GPC-X2E Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Gig Bag, Mahogany Pattern High-Pressure Laminate, 14 Fret Cutaway, Performing Artist Neck Shape
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable acoustic-electric guitar, the Martin Guitar X Series GPC-X2E is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The guitar features a solid Sitka spruce top with mahogany pattern high-pressure laminate back and sides, ensuring a bright and clear sound.
- The neck is made of select hardwood with a comfortable Performing Artist neck shape, making it easy to play.
- The guitar comes with a 30-day trial, a limited warranty, and a guaranteed buyback, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
Cons
- The soundhole rosette is plastic, which may be a downside for some players.
- The guitar may require some setup to play optimally.
- The gig bag included with the guitar may not offer the best protection for transport.
Overall, we found the Martin Guitar X Series GPC-X2E to be a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable acoustic-electric guitar. The solid top ensures a bright and clear sound, while the Performing Artist neck shape makes it easy to play. However, the plastic soundhole rosette and the need for some setup may be drawbacks for some players.
If you’re looking for a guitar that’s easy to play and sounds great, the Martin Guitar X Series GPC-X2E is definitely worth considering. With its solid top, comfortable neck, and reliable construction, it’s a great choice for beginners and intermediate players alike.
Martin Guitars DX Johnny Cash Signature Edition Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Gig Bag, HPL Construction, Modified D-14 Fret, Performing Artist Neck
If you’re a fan of Johnny Cash and looking for a guitar that pays homage to his iconic sound, the Martin Guitars DX Johnny Cash Signature Edition Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a great choice.
Pros
- The guitar’s solid Sitka spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides provide a rich, warm tone that’s perfect for folk and country music.
- The modified low oval neck profile and high-performance taper make it easy to play chords and solos, even if you have smaller hands.
- The guitar comes with a solid khaki roller gig bag, which provides excellent protection when you’re on the go.
Cons
- The guitar’s HPL construction means that it’s not as durable as guitars made with solid wood.
- The guitar’s factory strings may not be to everyone’s liking, so you may want to replace them with a set that suits your playing style.
- The guitar’s price point may be a bit high for some budget-conscious buyers.
We’ve had the opportunity to play and test the Martin Guitars DX Johnny Cash Signature Edition Acoustic-Electric Guitar, and we’re impressed with its sound and playability. The solid Sitka spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides produce a rich, warm tone that’s perfect for folk and country music. The modified low oval neck profile and high-performance taper make it easy to play chords and solos, even if you have smaller hands. And the solid khaki roller gig bag provides excellent protection when you’re on the go.
While the guitar’s HPL construction means that it’s not as durable as guitars made with solid wood, we don’t think this is a deal-breaker for most buyers. And while the guitar’s factory strings may not be to everyone’s liking, this is a minor quibble that can be easily remedied. Finally, the guitar’s price point may be a bit high for some budget-conscious buyers, but we think the quality and craftsmanship of the guitar justify the investment.
Overall, we highly recommend the Martin Guitars DX Johnny Cash Signature Edition Acoustic-Electric Guitar to anyone who’s looking for a high-quality instrument that pays homage to the legendary sound of Johnny Cash.
Martin 2017 D-28 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Natural
If you’re looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar that delivers rich, resonant sound, the Martin 2017 D-28 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The solid sapele top, mahogany back, and mahogany sides produce a warm, well-balanced tone with impressive projection.
- The new tapered headstock and solid wood neck provide improved stability and tuning stability.
- The high-precision chrome open-gear tuning machines with white buttons are easy to use and ensure accurate tuning.
Cons
- The guitar is quite heavy, which may be a concern for some players.
- The price tag is quite high, which may be a barrier for some potential buyers.
- The guitar comes without strings, so you’ll need to purchase them separately.
We’ve had the opportunity to play and test this guitar, and we’re impressed with its sound quality and overall construction. The solid sapele top and mahogany back and sides produce a warm, well-balanced tone with impressive projection. The new tapered headstock and solid wood neck provide improved stability and tuning stability, which is especially important for guitarists who plan to play the instrument regularly.
One potential downside to this guitar is its weight. It’s quite heavy, which may be a concern for some players who are looking for a lighter instrument. Additionally, the price tag is quite high, which may be a barrier for some potential buyers. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar that will deliver rich, resonant sound for years to come, the Martin 2017 D-28 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is definitely worth considering.
Martin Guitar D-15M with Gig Bag, Acoustic Guitar for the Working Musician, Mahogany Construction, Satin Finish, D-14 Fret, and Low Oval Neck Shape
If you’re looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar that can withstand the rigors of professional use, the Martin Guitar D-15M is a great option.
Pros
- The guitar’s solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides provide a rich, warm tone that is perfect for a variety of music styles.
- The low oval neck shape and 14-fret design make it comfortable to play for extended periods of time.
- The included hardshell case and gig bag provide excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage.
Cons
- The guitar’s price point may be a bit steep for some budget-conscious musicians.
- The solid top may make the guitar a bit heavier than some other acoustic guitars on the market.
- Some players may prefer a slightly different tone or sound from the guitar.
We’ve had the opportunity to play and test the Martin Guitar D-15M, and we can confidently say that it is a great choice for working musicians. The guitar’s solid construction and high-quality materials ensure that it will hold up well to the wear and tear of regular use.
One of the standout features of this guitar is its tone. The solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides provide a rich, warm sound that is perfect for a variety of music styles. Whether you’re playing folk, rock, or country, this guitar can deliver the sound you need.
Another great feature of the Martin Guitar D-15M is its comfortable neck. The low oval neck shape and 14-fret design make it easy to play for extended periods of time, which is especially important for working musicians who may be performing multiple sets in a single night.
Finally, the included hardshell case and gig bag provide excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage. Whether you’re traveling to a gig or simply storing the guitar at home, you can rest easy knowing that it is well-protected.
Overall, we highly recommend the Martin Guitar D-15M to working musicians who are in the market for a high-quality acoustic guitar. While the price point may be a bit steep for some, the guitar’s solid construction, high-quality materials, and excellent tone make it well worth the investment.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best Martin acoustic guitar, there are several factors to consider. As experienced musicians and gear enthusiasts, we understand the importance of choosing the right instrument for your needs.
Tonewood
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a Martin guitar is the tonewood. The type of wood used for the top, back, and sides of the guitar can greatly affect its sound. Look for guitars with high-quality tonewoods such as Sitka spruce or solid mahogany.
Size and Shape
The size and shape of the guitar can also affect its playability and sound. Consider your playing style and the type of music you play when choosing a size and shape. For example, a smaller body size may be more comfortable for a beginner or for playing folk music, while a larger body size may be better for a more robust sound.
Finish
The finish of the guitar can also affect its sound and playability. Look for guitars with a natural finish, as this can allow the wood to breathe and produce a better sound. Additionally, a good finish will protect the guitar and prevent it from drying out or cracking.
Price
Finally, consider your budget when choosing a Martin guitar. While it may be tempting to go for the most expensive option, it’s important to find a guitar that fits your needs and budget. Look for guitars in your price range that still offer high-quality features and sound.
In summary, when choosing the best Martin acoustic guitar, consider the tonewood, size and shape, finish, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can find a guitar that fits your needs and produces the sound you’re looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top Martin guitar models for beginners?
When it comes to choosing a Martin guitar for beginners, it’s important to consider factors such as affordability, ease of play, and overall quality. Some of the top Martin guitar models for beginners include the Martin LX1 Little Martin, Martin DX1R Dreadnought Guitar, and Martin Backpacker Guitar.
Which Martin guitars are recommended for singer-songwriters?
Singer-songwriters typically look for guitars that are versatile, easy to play, and produce a good sound. Some of the Martin guitar models that are recommended for singer-songwriters include the Martin D15M Dreadnought Guitar, Martin X1 X-Series X1XM StreetMaster, and Martin 000X1X Roman Red X-Series.
What features should I look for in a Martin acoustic guitar for recording?
When choosing a Martin acoustic guitar for recording, it’s important to look for features such as a solid top, high-quality tonewoods, and a good soundboard. Additionally, you may want to consider factors such as the guitar’s overall tone, projection, and playability.
Which Martin guitars are considered the best value for the money?
Martin guitars are known for their high quality and craftsmanship, but they can also be quite expensive. Some of the Martin guitars that are considered the best value for the money include the Martin D15M Dreadnought Guitar, Martin X1 X-Series X1XM StreetMaster, and Martin LX1 Little Martin.
How do the Martin DX1 and DX2 compare in terms of features and sound quality?
The Martin DX1 and DX2 are both X-Series guitars that are designed to be affordable and easy to play. While both guitars have similar features, such as a solid top and high-quality tonewoods, the DX2 also features a scalloped bracing pattern that can enhance the guitar’s sound quality.
What are the differences between Martin’s X1X, X1X1, and X1X2 models?
Martin’s X1X, X1X1, and X1X2 models are all part of the X-Series, which is designed to offer high-quality guitars at affordable prices. While all three models feature a solid top and high-quality tonewoods, the X1X2 also includes features such as a cutaway and a more advanced bracing pattern that can enhance the guitar’s sound quality.
