Martin D-28 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar (with Case)

When you hear "dreadnought," you picture the Martin D-28. First introduced in 1931, this Sitka spruce, Indian rosewood, and ebony beauty remains a classic.

Overall User Ratings (based on 317 ratings)
  • Overall:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Sound:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Features:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Ease of Use:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Quality:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Value:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Manufacturer Support:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • The Wow Factor:
    5 out of 5 stars
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(317) (see rating details)
Submitted November 20, 2004 by a customer from wmconnect.com

"My Martin D-28 is a perfect 10!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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This is almost certainly my "run out" guitar. For one thing, I'm getting up there. For another, I could get much, much better that I am, and still not outpace the D-28. I expect this fine instrument to give me 25 years or so of pure enjoyment, and then I'll pass it on to some lucky kid.
Sound
I do a lot of bass pick/strum or bass pick/pluck, (and some really elementry finger picking), and none of the sound gets lost in the process. The bass is strong, the mids ring and the tops strings are crisp and clean.
Features
The only "accessory" was the factory hard shell case. It is most adequate for the protection of this fine instrument. The materials, (Indian rosewood/spruce/mahogany/ebony) are well selected and perfectly matched. The binding is perfect. The tuners hold their tune much beter than my older Seagull.
Quality
It seems fashionable in some circles to "Martin bash" on quality issues. I think this is due to the fact that the difference between the top names, (Martin, Gibson, Guild) and the competition is very much smaller than it used to be. Also because these top names have brought out popular priced models to compete. Suffice it to say that I have found the D-28 to be flawless. It is better than I expected, and more thanI hoped for.
Value
I certainly haven't played every brand and model guitar available, but I've played a bunch of them, and the only one I would hold out against my D-28 is my neighbor's Schoenberg. (At a $400 or $500 price premium.) So, yes, I rate the D-28 as a huge value.
Manufacturer Support
This is a brand new instrument with no "out of the box" issues, so I can only expect that my support will be there if I ever need it. Martin has de-centralized their support to a network of factory approved luthiers, one of which is very conviently located, so I anticipate no problems in this regard. (Back when support was rendered in Pennsylvania, my friend sent his D-35 in for some major adjustments, and received it back in perfect condition, with a note chastising him for his neglect, and suggesting that he take better care of his instrument in the future!)
The Wow Factor
Acoustic guitars in general are a pretty generic lot in the "sex appeal" department. Gloss vs. matte, rosewood vs. mahogany, full body vs. cutaway- these are really personal preference issues. I can only say that of all the "Plain Jane" dreadnauts out there, I've fallen for mine! The inlays are very conservative, but perfectly executed. The finish has no blemishes I can see, (with my poor old eyes). The bindings, as previously stated, are beautifully done. Sexy? Yeah, to me it's very sexy.

Musical Background:

Played in public for years, now mostly for personal enjoyment.

Musical Style:

Folk, blues and "Island Junk".
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Submitted January 20, 2022 by a customer from ymail.com

"Such A Wonderful Acoustic - You need to play it for yourself"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I recently brought a 2013 used Martin D28. I did not need another guitar but as a left hander I'm always on the prowl when something comes up which is far less frequent for us lefties. I was very lucky to find an example that was hardly used and had been so well looked after. These acoustic still command quite a high re sale value but when you find one such as I have it's a bit of a saving and quite a bit of luck. Certainly there is a lot of attention now towards the D28 re-imagined. I have never played one of the newer instruments so I cannot comment. But let me tell you the whole feel and sound of my new D28 (new to me anyhow) is something which gives me pure pleasure. It really sings to me and the sustain is beautiful. The balance of the guitar when strummed gives such sound to my ears that I can just revel in the sound stage that is produced and let's not forget that I'm not even hearing this from in front of the sound hole but strum the guitar with an open G and turn the sound hole towards you and it rises to another level. I have heard comments from people saying their D28 sounds like it has socks stuffed down it or other comments that make me wonder what it is they are hearing. I have several Gibsons and a Taylor and have had martins in the past (an HD28V and a D18GE) which I sold on because I had to but besides already having had both of these models thought to be superior (and maybe they are?); This standard D28 has impressed me so much that I genuinely believe that I prefer it to the previous models I had. Perhaps I have simply had access to so many guitars over the years that my ear has begun to appreciate the differences I might not have been able to appreciate as much in the past but hand on heart I would say that this standard version of the D28 which is no longer produced in this form is probably all the guitar I will ever need. We all want to read good reviews for the guitar we own or hope to own but the best reviewer can only be you and what you hear, what the guitar feels like in your hand and how you respond to the sound you hear and from my point of view the Standard D28 to me is going to be a keeper. I cannot imagine letting this one go. Look at all the well known artists who have played the standard D28 before they started adding various versions of the model and work things out from there. The D28 is an outstanding guitar. Perhaps the re-imagined series has improved the sound further...I cannot say? But if the sound I hear now is enough to get me excited then surely I have found what I was looking for (if not more) when purchasing this guitar. Finally. In having to give start out of 5 for various requirements in this review I cannot give any comments for manufacturer support as this has not been applicable to me so far. With regards to features I cannot say there are that many but whatever is there is great and the guitar is simple in its look but definitely a beautiful thing. So if there is nothing for me to fault it simply has to be 5 stars all the way.
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Submitted January 14, 2017 by Michael G in Southaven , MS

"Martin d28 and zzounds are wonderful "

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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There's nothing I could say that hasn't already been said in these reviews about the d28. Yes its terrific, sounds and plays wonderful, true classic. But I want to commend zZounds, I ordered the d28 Friday at noon and it was on on my porch at 8:00 Saturday morning. Grant it I only live about 20 miles from their distribution center in Mississippi, but this is customer service. Most Internet sales from various companies do not even pick your order for 3 days to ship it. zZounds has made it possible for me to own a martin d28 and d18 thanks to thier 0% interest payment plans. I don't have to settle for just any old guitar anymore, I can now buy what I want. So if you don't have the guitar that you want zZounds will make it happen, for less than half of a modern day car payment.

Musical Background:

Bluegrass
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Submitted February 23, 2017 by Scott E

"74 D-28"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I have owned this guitar since new, over 40 years. It was sweet when I got it, and has only gotten better with age. No hyperbole can describe the sound that comes out of this guitar. Best advice to anyone who is doubting the D-28: just play it, and keep playing it. Everyday. Loud, soft, strum, pick, whatever. Don't leave it in its case for very long. Like a good friend, even if you haven't said hello for awhile, it never loses touch with you. It may sound sad for a few minutes, but brightens up with every note, and the longer you let its voice be heard, the happier it gets Enjoy.
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Submitted August 8, 2017 by Lloyd M

"Perfection"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I ordered this guitar in june, for two reasons. Ive always wanted a quality guitar and have looked at all the others. It came down to 1st. Just because i wanted a martin for bluegrass folk etc. 2nd because of the payment plan. (Excellent). Then the guitar arrived, opened the case ,had a new car smell(yumyum). Then i strummed it. (Oh yeah!!) Iplayed in first position for a while then went up the neck.(oh crap). Im used to electric where its easy up the neck. Well i almost immediately was going to send it back and try a d18. But i loved the sound and looks of this d28. So i decided to keep it and try some adjustment. (Which ive done on almost every guitar ive owned). I sanded the saddle down a little at a time over 2 or 3 weeks. Finally got it where i like it. (Almost string buzz but not quite). I tried various strings tony rice, steve kaufman etc. Finally sticking with martin sp light. Now i love love this guitar. At first i handled it with kid gloves. Now i just use it play it, let others play it at jams ot aint gonna fall apart. It dont even scratch easily.(i it on the road in my 18 wheeler and play the snot out of it. I got my first martin when i was just six...........ty...........six. that was this guitar. U can have my guns my banjo.....but not my martin d28.
Manufacturer Support
Havent used support

Musical Background:

60 yrs local jams and church etc

Musical Style:

Bluegrass, gospel, country, folk
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Submitted January 18, 2015 by Scott P in Paragould, AR

"King of Acoustic Dreadnoughts"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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Martin D28 is the ultimate acoustic guitar. All other guitars are compared to this one. The fit and finish of the guitar are impeccable. Beautiful sound with any style of playing that I've done so far. Thanks to zZounds.com for the "Pay as you play" option. I would not be able to purchase this caliber instrument without it. I recommend this acoustic as in investment. It will be a cherished item in my family and eventually passed down to my grandchildren.

Musical Background:

Jam at home

Musical Style:

All
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Submitted November 15, 2016 by Joe L in Campbell, OH

"Beautiful instrument!!!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I have never owned a Martin and I'm glad I chose the D28 as my first model. Not only does this guitar look great, it sounds fabulous too and is a pleasure to play. Very difficult to put down once you begin strumming. This is one guitar that I will not part with.
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Submitted June 14, 2017 by Jay S in Richardson, TX

"D-28 is the king"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Best acoustic I have strummed yet! This guitar is gorgeous and sounds like heaven. I can't believe it will sound better as the years pass. Great guitar.

Musical Background:

15 years professional and jam

Musical Style:

Rock, metal, alternative
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Submitted May 27, 2014 by Richard M

"Martin D-28 "

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Cant beat the sound of this beautiful guitar, i have owned many acoustic guitars and the Martin dreadnought is what all guitars are modeled after in my opinion, i have owned Gibson, Taylors and others but always go back to Martin, and Zzounds shipped super fast, will purchase through them again.

Musical Background:

40+ years exp

Musical Style:

Bluegrass, country, Rockabilly and Classic Rock
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Submitted December 20, 2006 by a customer from yahoo.com

"like fine wine ages with time"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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gonna be buried with it
Sound
the old guys that lament the loss of sound in new martins are wood heads. The new instruments will age with time and care to be coveted 20 years from now. They are still the best and if you care for it and allow it to age well, will be the best rig you can play. They are mostly handcrafted and have a custom sound. you pay 2000 for a real musicians tool. You want flowers and crap all over your guitar then you probably cant play anyway.
Features
straight forward, made to play by people who play for people who play.
Ease of Use
great action, wish that they would support heavy strings, but mediums are cool.
Quality
exceptional workmanship
Value
well it is 2ooo clams
Manufacturer Support
i havent dealt with them, the thing works.
The Wow Factor
uhhhh sex appeal?...you guys are weird man.....

Musical Background:

active amt. musician

Musical Style:

folk blues
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Submitted June 4, 2016 by Johnny B in Oak Grove, LA

"Words not enough"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I will attempt to put into words just how nice of a guitar this is. I own everything from Guild,Taylor, Takamine,seagull and so on but this is the best sounding instrument I have had the pleasure to own. I have a Martin D18 and had a Martin 000CXE and this D28 blows them both away. The full sound and the ease of playing this fine instrument are beyond words. I will still keep my others for their special tones when needed but this beauty has been my go to when I want to play anything. The only other guitar I wanted more than the D28 was the D41 but that will have to wait a year or so. Either way, IMO you can not go wrong with a Martin. Maybe it is just the newness of owning this guitar, but I have withdrawals when I have to go to work or other adult responsibilities and can't just grab it and play. I also can not say enough good things about zZounds. They have been very helpful with this purchase and my last follow up purchase. I am a new customer with them, but I foresee a long relationship with this company.

Musical Background:

Ex professional
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Submitted May 27, 2012 by William Sechrest in Chadbourn, NC

"Martin D-28"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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I have a 1970 D-28. From the day I bought it I have said show me one that sounds better and plays better. Has better tone and quality and I will buy it. I still have my 170 D-28. It is the best guitar I have evr played and I have played hundreds.

Musical Background:

I have been playing nearly 50 years. Guitar is all I play with any proficiency. I have played with some groups. Jammed a lot.

Musical Style:

Bluegrass. Bluegrass/country gospel. Real country.
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Submitted April 20, 2015 by Paul L in Vacaville, CA

"Martin D-28"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
I purchased the Martin D-28 as a gift for my brother. He just turn 59 and has been playing guitar since early youth "Out Standing Guitar Player".I know nothing about guitars, but I have a few friends that are musicians and when I mentioned the Martin D-28 they all agreed that for the money I couldn't go wrong with the D-28 .The guitar arrived on my door step just 3 days after placing the order. I opened the box and was truly blown away by the appearance of the guitar, it looked like a piece of art work.When my brother opened his gift he was in disbelief, when some 59 years of age states that this is the best gift he has ever received, the Martin D-28 must be pretty special.

Musical Background:

N/A

Musical Style:

N/A
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Submitted December 12, 2006 by a customer from rock.com

"the best smart money can buy,with a good investment to boot"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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forever,and maybe even into the afterlife.
Sound
the d28 has a nicer sound than the d18, but i have played other model martins where the mohogany sounds better than the rosewood. the d18vs sounded beter than the rosewood version whose # escapes me. try before you buy side by side . each guitar is different.you may get a crappy one in this model, or you may get a stupendus one in the very same model. they have to talk to you, if your paying big bucks it pays to be happy with your purchese . PLAY THEM!!!
Features
this is a great guitar. crafted beautifuly. it is not flashy but alot goes into making a guitar this good. a guitar made in china or some other asian country is probably more likley to have or develope neck problems. good investment -moneywise and youll play much more with an enjoyable guitar.
Ease of Use
if it needs it get it set up by a pro pay the extra money.
Quality
you cant beat a martin or a gibson for the money. i prefer martin because the gibsons have tastless decore (like the dove).
Value
very good for the money, you would have to goto a custom luthier for better and then you would get exotic woods that don't nessesaryally make the guitar sound beter
Manufacturer Support
i didn't have to deal with the co. so i can't go either way
The Wow Factor
why are they asking about the sex appeal of a guitar. thats just plain weird

Musical Background:

active musician

Musical Style:

alt country
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Submitted May 31, 2015 by Frank M in Utica, NY

"Martin D-28"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
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There is nothing about this guitar that I do not like. The wood, fit, finish, and most importantly sound are all beautiful. If it was not for the Pay as you Play offered by ZZounds I would never have been able to own this guitar. The customer service is incredible, I had problems with another guitar and they replaced it with no hassle at all.
Sound
Distinctive Martin sound, well balanced across the entire range.
Features
Playability 100% wood is beautiful. I prefer clean classic features and looks. I am not one for glitz and glitter, so the D-28 is perfect to me.
Ease of Use
I think the Lifespan Medium Phospher Bronze strings are the best of those I have tried and the light are a little easier to play. The neck and frets are perfect to me and it stays in tune. If I were to change anything it would be the tuners from closed to open just for looks, I really like the open back tuners looks. The guitar is a dream to play. This is my 3rd Martin, I have owned Gibson, and Guild as well and I think the Martins just sound better.
Quality
Quality all the way through. Everything is 100% in my opinion.
Value
I think the price is very fair for the instrument.
Manufacturer Support
Any problem I had with past guitars has been handled by ZZounds immediately, so I never had to go to the manufacturer.
The Wow Factor
Even if you didn't know how to play, this guitar is a work of art. Think about it, almost every other guitar is a copy of a Martin to some degree.

Musical Background:

50+ years just for my own pleasure.

Musical Style:

Rock, blues
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Submitted February 3, 2014 by Ronald Bushnell in Ware, MA

"Quintessential Guitar"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
This is the perfect guitar; that has raised my standards of awareness, being a perfect instrument for the objective of personal growth. This is like a wholesome, beautiful woman that does not need makeup.

Musical Background:

Playing guitar for forty years.

Musical Style:

I play bare finger, finger-picking. I like to compose my own music and songs to sing.
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Submitted November 24, 2015 by Gary E in Garner, NC

"Martin D-28 Dreadnought Acoustic"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
My friends could not believe I ordered this guitar without playing it first. Well, it is a Martin, after all, so I expected top quality. I got top quality. The guitar plays great, the sound is very nicely balanced across the entire spectrum, and it looks fabulous (what a top-picked from pictures!

Musical Background:

50 years- professional- guitar, bass, piano

Musical Style:

Americana
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Submitted February 26, 2016 by Eddie P in Pocahontas, AR

"My Martin D-28 Review"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
The Martin D-28 The name says it all, But don't take my word for it, Try one for yourself. You will love the sound, and the Quality. One of the Best Guitars on the market. I can tell you , You will never go back to a cheap sounding guitar again. Think you can't afford it. Thats were zZounds comes in. They can make your guitar dreams come true.Thanks zZounds for everything.

Musical Background:

40 Years and still going.

Musical Style:

Bluegrass, Country, Gospel, Classic Rock Blues.
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Submitted November 28, 2015 by Eddie P in Pocahontas, AR

"The Martin D-28 "

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
The most sought after Martin Guitar ever. In my opinion there are far but few that stand the test of time. It's the Dreadnought that started it all.

Musical Background:

I have been Playing music for over 40 years. Guitar, Mandolin, Drums ect.

Musical Style:

Bluegrass, Country, Christian, and some old time rock and roll
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Submitted December 16, 2014 by Patrick I in Fallbrook, CA

"Great product"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Everything a Martin should be. Clear bright tone and immaculate appearance. And zZounds did everything they said they would. No hassle and no double talk.

Musical Background:

been playing twelve years. strictly amateur.

Musical Style:

Folk rock
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Submitted May 15, 2012 by Joshua P

"Martin D28 is Amazing"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
This guitar is freaking amazing. I owned a Taylor 614ce for 5 years and it was a great guitar, but the D28 is my guitar. Love the responsive top with or without a pick. Also. the customer service at zZounds is great too. I had an issue with the first guitar they sent me. I told them I wanted another one and the return precedure was fast and easy. I'm so pleased with my purchase.

Musical Background:

15 years professional guitarist

Musical Style:

country, blues, southern rock
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Submitted June 22, 2014 by Bryan C in Silerton, TN

"The Father of Dreadnoughts!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
I purchased my D-28 in 2011. It was love at first strum! This is a beautiful instrument, although not anything fancy to its looks. The tone and craftsmanship is what really counts anyway. In my opinion, nothing sounds better than Sitka Spruce and Rosewood! Some prefer Mahogany back and sides, but not me. I will keep this instrument with me for the rest of my life. Heck, I may have it buried with me! Lol. I definately highly recommend this guitar. You wont ever be disappointed with your purchase!

Musical Background:

Have been playing guitar for 25 years. I jam at home and church.

Musical Style:

Country, Rockabilly, Classic Rock, Gospel Hymns
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Submitted September 14, 2005 by a customer from nycap.rr.com

"Great but consider how you'll use it..."

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
I expect this guitar to improve with age [I have owned it a little over a year]. Even though I'll probably buy other guitars, I'll never part with this one.
Sound
There are those who lament that today's Martins don't compare to the Martins of old and there might be some validity to that argument; but, this guitar does not sound like a cheap $150 guitar as some traditionalists have claimed. This guitar, simple in appearance, has a full rich tone that is distinctly Martin. It is a tone that can be downright intoxicating. Play a chord on it and the sound will linger with you forever. [I first heard one played in the 60's and wanted one from that time on.]The guitar is best strummed or flat picked-it is adequate but not great for finger picking. When I started learning finger picking styles I bought a 1967 Martin 0-16 New Yorker. The New Yorker's projection and intonation is far superior when finger picked. I should add though, that I don't use finger picks or cultivate long nails. That said, this is a beautiful instrument worth every penny.
Features
Spruce and rosewood- great combination.
Quality
Solid and clean with no defects.
Value
As I said, worth every penny.
Manufacturer Support
I talked to Martin on the phone regarding a variety of issues. Their support has always been excellent.
The Wow Factor
It is a simple no frills guitar with a great sound. I personally don't care about frills and embellishments.

Musical Background:

Hobbyist getting more serious...

Musical Style:

Mostly folk and blues
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Submitted June 10, 2004 by a customer from shaymus.org

"Shaymus plays a D-28 in"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Shaymus: "It's a great guitar...really - like a good friend of mine, which I guess you can't put a price on. Nevertheless, if I were to put a price on a friend, I'd probably make it a little lower so that other folks could get one too."
Sound
Shaymus: "I really like the tonal range of this instrument. I've played so many acoustics over the years, but this is the one I keep coming back to. It's very sensitive to soft and expressive finger-picking but it also really lights up when strummed. It's chimey, mid-range rich, and bass-boomy all at the same time. Probably the best tonally balanced guitar of all time."
Features
Shaymus: "Nice workmanship - you'd expect that for the price - not over done or too flashy...just my style."
Quality
Shaymus: "You can tell the guitar is well-made just by picking it up. It feels lighter than you'd expect, but that airy quality is what gives the D-28 its resonance and volume."
Value
Shaymus: "...yeah, it's expensive all right...maybe not quite worth all the money, but people who buy Martins (mine was a gift) are the same people who want to own performance cars and other top of the line gear regardless of price. I think they could be offered at a lower cost, but some folks just believe that if it costs a lot it must be good - in this case it works out - but I still think it could be offered at a lower price to real musicians who want the sound but can't afford such a high price tag."

Musical Style:

Boston Folk, Pop, R & B
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Submitted January 2, 2017 by Jimmy Hundley in Whitsett, NC

"Great guitar"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Guitar sounds great..i bought this guitar about a week ago from zZounds when i first opened it i noticed scratches on the pick guard .nothing major!!! But today i noticed the green interior is coming apart from the case . hopefully zZounds can help with the case issue other than that this is by far the best sounding acoustic ive ever played.sounds better in my opinion than a guild d55 or a gibson hummingbird !!! Very balanced....looking to solve this case issue other than that im very pleased ..4.5 on the wow factor due to case issue

Musical Background:

20 yrs

Musical Style:

County ....gospel
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Submitted August 18, 2016 by Joseph L in Lowellville, OH

"I finally own a Martin D-28"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
A huge thank you to zZounds because without a payment plan, I could never save up the money to purchase this fine instrument, but I can afford a monthly payment for 12 months. OK, on with the D-28. As soon as I cracked open the case I could smell the Sitka Spruce and Indian Rosewood coming off the Martin. I looked this thing over with a fine toothed comb and could not find a flaw anywhere on this guitar. It even feels like a $3000 guitar whenever I pick it up to play. I was torn between the D-28 and the D-35 as my first Martin. After weeks of research by reading about both models and watching them in action on YouTube, I felt that the D-28 would be a good choice for my first Martin because it has less bass over the D-35 for bedroom playing. Don't get me wrong, the bass is there, just not as explosive as on a D-35. This is by far a great instrument. Glad I chose the D-28 and I already know what my 2nd Martin will be after I make my 12th payment.
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by a customer from cameron.net

"My Martin D-28, My all in one acoustic guitar."

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
I don't ever expect to replace it. Before getting my Martin I already had a 6 string acoustic cut away, a 12 string acoustic and a back packer. I have made the purchase of the guitar that I always wanted so I do not desire to replace it.
Sound
The Martin D-28 has a rich, strong and loud bass without sacrificing it's crisp sharp treble. It has the ability to give the needed sound quality when it is the only instrument being played when my wife and I perform live as a gospel duet. It has the ability to stand alone when it is the only instrument being played. I have played with other musicians and it blends well with other instruments. My D-28 is equipped with a thinline gold plus active pickup. It delivers great high quality sound no matter if I'm amped up in a recording or sitting out in my back yard. When we are performing I am usually plugged into my P.A. system or some times patched into a church's system. The best way I know of to improve sound on my Martin is to keep a fresh set of strings on it when needed.
Features
The only features I had installed on my D-28 is a strap pin, and a Martin thinline gold+ active pickup. The materials, design, and craftsmanship used in making it, are what make it one of the superior guitars still made today.
Quality
I believe the Martin Guitar Co. has a very high standard for quality control. I have a guitar that not only looks great, but as long as I take reasonable care of it, will be able to go on the road and last my life time.
Value
The quality of the guitar, which should last a lifetime compared to the retail price makes it s great value.
Manufacturer Support
I have had no dealings with the Martin Guitar Co. directly, but the retailer that I bought mine and my wife's Martin Guitars from, and the authorised repair shop both were very helpful and easy to work with.
The Wow Factor
The guitar looks great. It carries also the name and model that is widely known and sought after. Putting this together with the rich sound it creates gives it a great sex appeal. It took me from I want it, I want it, I want it, to I GOT IT!

Musical Style:

Bluegrass, Country Gospel, & Contemporary Gospel
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Submitted April 22, 2005 by a customer from bellsouth.net

"Martin no longer makes quality musical instruments."

Overall: 0.5 out of 5 stars
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Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Would not purchase a new Martin..........
Sound
I am sad to say the 'new' (if built during the last decade or two)Martin Guitars just don't have it any more! I had a 73 D-35 that was very nice...but not as nice as the 60's Martins....and so on. I realize that much tone is gained as the guitar is properly aged...but the new Martin's sound like cheap imitations of the original Martin sound. I have picked up at least a hundred over the last decade and every single one sounded dead, uneven, and most sadly very little 'bottom'. That deep bottom was the siren that drove the company's fame. They don't have that 'sound' any more!
Features
Nothing great, just a case and some tags.
Quality
They are not awfully made.......they tend to be neat and without too many obvious flaws.....but the quality must be poor somewhere because they sound like a guitar you would purchase for $150.00....not $2000.00 and up. (Don't go near ANY of the 'affordable' Martins or the 'Cowboy pictures' etc......they are garbage as a musical instrument.
Value
Martin no longer 'cuts it'!
Manufacturer Support
They can provide support if you have a manufacturing defect....but no one knows or can answer why they don't sound good any more.
The Wow Factor
An old Martin is worth a lot of money because it sounds GREAT! A new Martin is simply a poor investment and sounds like a $150.00 guitar.

Musical Background:

active

Musical Style:

variety
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Submitted December 8, 2007

"Very satisfied!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
I am very careful with it and expect to keep it for a lifetime.
Sound
Very crisp, full ranging sound
Features
Composition case is protective, and lighter than those with my other Martins.
Ease of Use
Remember it is a dreadnought; a smaller body is more comfortable to play, but you will sacrifice sound depth and presence.
Quality
A fine instrument.
Value
You get what you pay for. I prefer the more subtle instrument. The higher end Martins add a lot of abalone I don't care for.
Manufacturer Support
My local dealer, Bentley Guitars, has been terrific.
The Wow Factor
If you like quality materials and craftsmanship, rather than inlays and other gimmicks, this is your guitar.

Musical Background:

Hobbyist

Musical Style:

Rock and folk
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"American quality craftsmanship at its best."

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
I've owned 2 Martin D-28's in the past 11 years. My standards for a guitar have been raised since owning these. It has become the benchmark for every acoustic I try.
Sound
Full and rich.
Features
The only reason this gets an 8 is becuase it isn't an ornate instrument. I like the clean lines of it, but Martin offers more inlay on some other products. It doesn't lack in itself, but in comparison to others in the Martin premium line, it cannot be a 10.
Quality
Not a blemish on it.
Value
Quality American craftsmanship at an affordable price. If it's worth having, it's worth saving for. This is a guitar that will last a lifetime and is worth every penny.
Manufacturer Support
Have never needed repairs, but questions have always been answered promptly and courteously.
The Wow Factor
I love the feel of it.

Musical Style:

Rock
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