Martin D15 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar User Reviews at zZounds

"If you have doubts, DONT.. You have to play this one" submitted March 24, 2007

By a customer from sbcglobal.net

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The Wow Factor

Musical Background: active musician

Music Style: variety

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Sound: The first time I strummed it I could tell this was the one. It resonates better than the heavy laquered models. And it was fuller sounding, not just louder. Feature: I had to put a pickup in, but I preferred to over the electric model because it sounds better than the thinner body of the elec. It did suck though having to drill into a brand new guitar. It'd be nice if it were pre-drilled. Ease of Use: Martin bronze X light strings sound fantastic, but I admit it sounds best with med or light Martin strings. Other brands don't seem to bark like Martin bronze. Quality: built solid. I've had it for 5 years now and it resonates as true as the first day. The Wow Factor: I like the dark wood. IÃ¤m not into much inlay work, just sound. But if anything, a light binding around the body would accent it nicely.

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"Martin D-15- A Sweet Chocolate Dreadnought- With an Even Sweeter Sound!" submitted February 29, 2004

By a customer from hotmail.com

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Music Style: Acoustic Fingerstyle, Rock, Jazz

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Sound: One word- beautiful - Warm, bassy on the low end, balanced and clear on the highs. Sounds as good- if not warmer than D- 28's and 35's that I've played- and without the overdone brightness or shrill that some of the Taylors seem to usually posess. This is an incredible sounding guitar- Sound that you you'd expect from a git much more expensive. When you get it- put some A'Addario EXP's Medium Phosphor Bronze Strings on it- wow. Feature: A simple understated guitar- beautiful like a simple acoustic guitar florish... The choice of an all Mahogany body - gives it that unique warm sound- it also gives it that unmistakable cholocate color - who can resist a fudge brownie? Look... if you want a spruce top- your gits going to look like everyone elses. This one will stop people in their tracks - beleive me. Its unique and in its simplicity ...beautiful. Quality: Fit and finish is top notch. As many of the reviewers have already indicated- the sides are a tad thin- there is no binding- which adds to the beauty of this guitar. Take care of it. Value: There isn't another guitar out there at this price - that can touch the D-15 in value and in sound. Manufacturer Support: Haven't had to deal with martin- but I heard only good things regarding there customer support- Make sure to registrar it. The Wow Factor: It's dark- its sounds are warm and addictive- this guitar has it all. Overall: I going to wear it out or it's going to wear me out- and when I'm done with it- it will be in the hands of my son.

32 of 34 people (94.12%) found this review helpful. Did you?

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"Try it, you'll like it" submitted June 5, 2005

By a customer from insightbb.com

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Value

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The Wow Factor

Musical Background: 1 year avid

Music Style: Rock, country, original

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Sound: The sound made my decision. Learned on a borrowed high end Alvarez (I loved that guitar). When I went to the music store to buy, I tried all the Canadian & Japanese guitars, they all sounded the same. Played the D-15...deep, rich, resonating. Sounds great when playing with friends that have the higher toned accoustics. Feature: Get a Martin case. You can't show your face in public without a Martin in it's case. Quality: It's a Martin. Your Japanese guitar owning friends will be green with envy. Value: Martins are on the high end but they are American made and of the highest quality. You can't go wrong buying this guitar, it's easy to play and sounds great. Manufacturer Support: Didn't use it. The Martin website offers advice for adequate care. The Wow Factor: Some like the looks, others don't. My wife does, I don't. The sound won out over the looks. Since it was a birthday present, I tried to make my wife happy:) Overall: Some may not like the finish because shiny spots will appear where your skin rubs, but I think that it gives it character. I want my guitar to look like it's been played. If you want an accoustic that is light weight, a breeze to play and sounds great, buy one of these!

14 of 15 people (93.33%) found this review helpful. Did you?

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"Sweet sounds from this ugly duckling." submitted May 2, 2003

By a customer from yahoo.com

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Music Style: Folk, Rock

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Sound: After living with an inexpensive 'laminate' guitar, this all solid wood Martin sounds like a dream. Notes really ring out compared to the cheaper guitars - so worth a few dollars to bring more joy! Feature: Nice case, good solid tuners, not the prettiest wood - but close your eyes and listen to it! Quality: Ready to go right from the shop. Appears very well put together. Value: Very good value for an all solid wood instrument. Overall: Definitely an acoustic guitar to grow with, not too expensive to be out of the question for a beginner - and with a good sound for when you get good at this thing.

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"The sound and playibility of this USA made guitar is a 10." submitted October 4, 2010

By a customer from aol.com

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Musical Background: Hobbyist

Music Style: All style

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Sound: It's the best sounding guitar I own and I own a few. For the money it's great. Make sure to adjust the neck often. If you let the action get bad it's hard to adjust the neck. It's made in the USA!!!!! Feature: Mine came with a hard case that's lined. Bullet proof. Fits like a glove. Ease of Use: I've had mine for years. Never bees waxed. No cracking or warping. I live in So Cal so the weather is nice. Quality: Yes it's built by luthers who have pride in what they do. Value: Yes. Manufacturer Support: Yes. I let the neck get out of shape and called them for help. Although they didn't fix it them selves they told me what I needed to do to repair the problem. The Wow Factor: Yes. Overall: This guitar is in my will.

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"A simple master crafted beautiful sounding guitar" submitted January 17, 2004

By a customer from dslextreme.com

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The Wow Factor

Music Style: rock/folk

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Sound: beautiful, my son didnt know I bought it. I was in my room playing and he came in. He knew I wasnt playing my Takamine (very good sound)because the sound was so much more "rich and warm". He described it well Feature: nothing fancy but I love the look of this plain jane Quality: Its a low end martin price for a high end sounding simple beauty Value: Cant beat it for value Manufacturer Support: Not needed The Wow Factor: It has a simple look that makes people look and when people hear it they ask questions. Overall: Someday I may move up to another Martin but I dont know why. This one has all I need or wanted. I would replace it If lost. I love the satin finish although Im still trying to figure out the best way to care for it

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"Best sounding, easiest playing, greatest looking acoustic guitar. Period. One purchase you will NOT regret." submitted March 3, 2009

By a customer from hotmail.com

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Musical Background: hobbyist, occasional "open-mike" performer

Music Style: Grunge

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Sound: Deep, rich, Martin signature tones from the low end and sweet, ringing tones from the high end. I've had a D-15 since 2001, and it has aged like fine wine. Fine tuning here and there, truss rod adjustment for action, and sanded the bridge insert from underneath for even lower action. No fret buzz unless you're trying to play violently. Replaced stock bridge pins with brass, installed a Fishman VT active pickup (no drilling required), now I have a guitar that sounds as good as the best in the world. Not bad for under $1000. Feature: Comes with chrome tuners, which really don't match the CFMartin logo on the headstock, so I replaced them with brass tuners. Looks excellent. Also comes with plastic bridge pins, which I also recommend replacing, just for aesthetic purposes if nothing else. Ease of Use: Action can be adjusted to preference, and mine is complimented by all who have had the pleasure of playing it. Stays in tune longer than most guitars. Quality: Through-style neck, instead of the bolt-on method used by many, including Taylor Acoustics. Perfect internal support construction, still has that fresh mahogany smell. East-Indian rosewood fretboard is now what makes this guitar more expensive than it was a few years ago, due to the taxes and restrictions placed on said wood. No flaws in this guitar, period. Value: One could easily spend over $2000 on a Gibson acoustic, Taylor, or even a more expensive Martin. Martin's website has guitars over $10,000. I've played many acoustics over the years, in music shops and studios, and the D-15 sounds AT LEAST as good as any Martin that costs thousands. As far as Gibson goes, they just can't make an acoustic that sounds or plays as well as a Martin. Taylor is the only comparable manufacturer. Hands down Manufacturer Support: Never had a problem that required contacting the manufacturer. The Wow Factor: I only rate this a "9" because the fretboard inlays are simple dots, and honestly, there's cooler looking inlays besides dots. But if you just want a badass acoustic guitar, get the D15 and don't bother shopping for anything else. This guitar says, "Play me, I sound awesome" NOT "look at how shiny I am." Overall: Easily the best bang for the buck in the realm of acoustic guitars. The all mahogany body looks classic and elegant, not to mention the sound it provides. There is simply no substitute for fine craftsmanship, which is exactly what to expect from Martin.

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"I LOVE IT!" submitted January 14, 2006

By a customer from yahoo.com

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Musical Background: musician and student

Music Style: Folk, gospel,accoustic rock

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Sound: This is an incredible guitar for the price. So far it is the best and most beautiful sounding instrument I have owned. The tone is awesome with deep resonating bass and very sweet/clear high treble. The projection of the guitar is fantastic as well. The sustain is incredible! I would definitely recommend this guitar. You will not regret purchasing it once youplay it! The action was a little high straight from the factory (nothing a little adjusting couldn't fix. I ended up getting a sound hole pick-up for plugging in and playing(a California lace accoustic)and for when I want to record the true accoustic sound.....It works just great! Feature: I knew what I was buying and I didn't want a bunch of "bells and whistles". The guitar is very high quality (as Martins are!) It came with a hard shell martin case. I wanted a simple and classic/ traditional style accoustic guitar made of solid tone woods that would only improve with age. I feel I got what I paid for and I am very pleased. I will not part with this guitar. Its a lifer :) Quality: The guitar was in perfect condition...the action was slightly high...but new guitars usually are until you adjust them to your liking and playing style. Value: It is very much worth the $799 I paid for it! Overall: I will enjoy this guitar and will then pass it down to my kids when I am gone....

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"Don't pass up this brown beauty!!!!!!" submitted November 17, 2009

By a customer from yahoo.com

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Sound

Musical Background: Hobby

Music Style: Rock

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Sound: The sound is increadable for the price. I checked out a D-28 before bought my D-15, off course if I had $3000 that would be my acoustic, but I don't have the chops or income of Eric Clapton. The D-15 sounds better than any Taylor Gibson, Breedlove or Yamaha. Feature: Came with a hardshell case to protect the axe. Ease of Use: I need to get the action adjusted. It is a little hard to press down the stings on some of the frets. Quality: One word MARTIN. End of Story Value: Like Nike - Just do it! Manufacturer Support: Called them once to verify my serial number that was it. The Wow Factor: It is pretty plain, but it looks totally different that other acoustics. Do you want sound or a looker. If you can afford the D-18 or D-28, get it. This axe sounds amazing. Overall: This will be the only acoustic I ever need. If I hit the lottery I will buy the Clapton or Howe model, but unitl them I love everytime I open the case to take it out and press down on the frets.

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"If you want a top quality Martin at an affordable price this is it. It has a sound second to none regardless of price," submitted August 13, 2003

By a customer from houston.rr.com

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Music Style: blues, county,

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Sound: This has a very solid bass sound with good midrange, and can ring good on the high end with slip notes. Feature: It came with a hard shell case and a body peg for a shoulder strap. Quality: The product is perfectly made. I could not find a single flaw in the design or finish. Some criticisms note the thin sides. I find this an attribute since it helps produce the clear high end notes without the muffling (dampening) effect of some guitars with thicker sides. Value: Its well worth the price. Manufacturer Support: Haven't needed any. The Wow Factor: I find the beauty is in the simplicity and its well made functional materials. The quality of workmanship is like an old world Strandivarius. Overall: This will be the last acoustic I will own. The best thing I like about it is the sound and the looks. I don't like anything least about it.

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"id just doese`nt get any better than this.." submitted May 22, 2003

By a customer from yahoo.com

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The Wow Factor

Music Style: bluegrass

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Sound: rich, loud and powerful Feature: the best feture a guitar can have is "does it play well ?" this one does. set aside all the pretty appointments and you have an awsome guitar. action is perfect, no fret buzz. intonation is perfect. and butt kickin sound. what more important features could an musician ask for??? Quality: isnstrments are to be treated with care. they are built to be played. not thrown around. one cannot and will not find better quality than a martin guitar...... Value: awesome Manufacturer Support: never had to call them but i`d bet they are great.. Overall: for as long as we both shall live....

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"great sound and playability needs some better bracing and thicker sides" submitted February 9, 2004

By a customer from yahoo.com

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Music Style: rockcountry

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Quality: very thin ,i bumped my first one on a table about as hard as a thump and it split the whole side shiny spots from playing Manufacturer Support: sent the first one back martin wanted a $1098 bucks to replace the body on a guitar i can buy for $600 after arguing back and forth for 2 months i agreed it was damage caused by me and they agreed it should not have split that bad theygave me a new guitar for $350,which was not that bad, couldnt replace it for that! The Wow Factor: i like the old school 40's look

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"Oustanding value, wonderul sound." submitted January 7, 2004

By a customer from yahoo.com

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Music Style: Jazz

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Sound: Man this guitar sounds so beautiful. Punchy bass, crisp highs and it's sustain is wonderful! Feature: This guitar is not intended to have an array of features, but makes up for it with value so I give it an 8. Quality: Very well made. Martin has itself some very good luthiers. Value: This guitar has to be the best value out there. How many solid wood guitars can you get that sound like this for the price? The Wow Factor: Considering the features the "I want it" appeal can't obviously be to high. Overall: Overall, I give this guitar a 10 because of it's outstanding value.

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"Martin, great guitars for the right people." submitted April 26, 2006

By a customer from mac.com

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Musical Background: Hobbyist

Music Style: Folk

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Sound: I found that my Martin D15 sounds best to me when I play classical music. For Folk music, I would recommend a different guitar. I have a Seagull S6 that really plays the folk stuff great. I guess I'm saying that I prefer my Seagull over my D15 Martin. Feature: The D15 is made from African Mahogony, the neck is Indian rosewood. I paid $699.00 and it included a hardshell case. This is not a flashy guitar, but it is well built, and at $699.00 it really seemed like a good deal. Ease of Use: This is not a difficult instrument to play, and in fact, is very enjoyable to play. Although, again, I prefer my Seagull S6. Quality: Impecably built. Every attention to detail is taken. Value: The D15 retails on the Martin website for about $1100.00. I would have been somewhat dissapointed with this guitar had I paid full price, but at $699.00 I was generally happy about the purchase. Manufacturer Support: I called the factory once to ask about tours and they were very helpful. The Wow Factor: While the D15 is not exactly a head turner, it is beautifully crafted and a very nice instrument. Overall: Admittedly, I bought this guitar with out much research and strumming time. I bought this guitar without much education, it was my first. One year later I bought the Seagull S6 and it fit me perfect.

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"If you want all the sound without all the shiny thingies, look no further." submitted July 26, 2006

By a customer from longwood.edu

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Musical Background: Active Musician--20 years experience with the theroy end, 1 yr on guitar.

Music Style: anything with a great line.

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SPOTLIGHT REVIEW

Sound: I added West African hard ivory saddle and nut, bone bridge pins, and this thing has just amazing sound and rings for days. No complaints. Feature: Wanted for nothing. Ease of Use: Incredibly playable. I lowered the action a little with the saddle. I had it from the time I started playing a year ago, expected to outgrow it, and that has yet to happen. Friends who have been playing deacades compliment he playability. Incredibly east to modify. Quality: Saddle was defective, had an annoying, prominent buzz to it. Not Martin's fault-TUSQ part that came w/ the instrument, but maybe should have cheked it out before sending it off. Value: Yes. With a few modifications (cost was negligible, under $200 with installation work) my guitar sounds at least as good as anything on the floor in my shop's acoustic room, and better than most. And this is according to my luthier, teacher, and other players. Very worth the money spent. Overall: I can't imagine replacing my guitar at this point. The only real difference between this and the more high end styles was rectified with the saddle/ nut/ pin change, and the sound is amazing. I love the simple style, the color and finish just as is. If you want shiny and pretty with all the glittery-frilly abalone and such, get another guitar. This one is understated elegance with a rich, gorgeous sound and none of the extraneous "packaging." I gave it a 9 because there probably is something better out there, but I have yet to find it.

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"High quality at a low price ...from Martin&Co.? YES" submitted July 3, 2003

By a customer from msn.com

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Features

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The Wow Factor

Music Style: Americana/ Rock

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Sound: This is not a bright sounding Martin because it is not designed to be. Instead it has rich midtones, a big boomy sound that jumps out of the sound hole. Rich and mellow when strummed lightly, fingerpickig or when playing arpeggios. Never, ever clangy. Feature: The factory setup had the action set a bit high for my liking but, I opted to leave as is and see if it would wear naturally like all good Martins do and after 5 years of ownership this guitar is settling in and shaping up nicely (well worth the wait). All of the original components are of the highest quality and in perfect working order. Quality: Durable, Reliable and extremely scratch resistant. HOWEVER! I did find a flaw in the silkscreen on the headstock where it says "EST, 1833" my guitar has "EST, 833" I thought this was odd for Martin&Co. to miss in Quality Control but, I accepted the flaw after receiving a discount from the retailer. For that reason I have to give Martin a very generous 8 because of this very obvious flaw and its location. Value: If you big fat sound and excellent quality at a great price than this is your guitar. You'll have to pay alot more for comparable quality by any other brand. Manufacturer Support: Never delt with them. The Wow Factor: This guitar has become a part of me. With age the neck (back) has become like glass. Also, the same has happened where I rest my right arm on the body. Because of the satinlike finish it is never cold to bare skin. Overall: This is the last 6 string acoustic guitar I will ever buy. It has the sound I want, it records beutifully in my home studio. The only regret I have is my failure to get the certification papers from the retailer when I puchased it so some day I may put Martin&Co. to the test on that and see If they can provide me with duplicates.

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Martin D15 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar (with Case)

User Ratings

"If you have doubts, DONT.. You have to play this one" submitted March 24, 2007

"Martin D-15- A Sweet Chocolate Dreadnought- With an Even Sweeter Sound!" submitted February 29, 2004

"Try it, you'll like it" submitted June 5, 2005

"Sweet sounds from this ugly duckling." submitted May 2, 2003

"The sound and playibility of this USA made guitar is a 10." submitted October 4, 2010

"A simple master crafted beautiful sounding guitar" submitted January 17, 2004

"Best sounding, easiest playing, greatest looking acoustic guitar. Period. One purchase you will NOT regret." submitted March 3, 2009

"I LOVE IT!" submitted January 14, 2006

"Don't pass up this brown beauty!!!!!!" submitted November 17, 2009

"If you want a top quality Martin at an affordable price this is it. It has a sound second to none regardless of price," submitted August 13, 2003

"id just doese`nt get any better than this.." submitted May 22, 2003

"great sound and playability needs some better bracing and thicker sides" submitted February 9, 2004

"Oustanding value, wonderul sound." submitted January 7, 2004

"Martin, great guitars for the right people." submitted April 26, 2006

"If you want all the sound without all the shiny thingies, look no further." submitted July 26, 2006

"High quality at a low price ...from Martin&Co.? YES" submitted July 3, 2003