Martin DRS1 Road Series Acoustic-Electric Guitar (with Case)

Get Martin tone and playability for a nice price with the DRS1 guitar. Crafted with a solid sapele top, back, and sides, it's a workhorse acoustic-electric.

Overall User Ratings (based on 29 ratings)
  • Overall:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Sound:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Features:
    4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Ease of Use:
    4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Quality:
    4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Value:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Manufacturer Support:
    4.5 out of 5 stars
  • The Wow Factor:
    5 out of 5 stars
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(29) (see rating details)
Submitted March 3, 2013 by Greg Garschagen in Wales Township, MI

"LOVE THIS GUITAR!!!!!!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Hands down this is the best acoustic guitar I have played for the money.
Sound
The sound quality is out standing right out of the box. A quick tune and I was playing better than I have in years. I looked at my wife and said "So, this is what a quality acoustic guitar sounds like".
Features
The Fishman Sonitone sounded good on my 7 year old daughters First Act amp. Have not plugged into my amp yet. Love the sound,look and smell of the Sapele wood
Ease of Use
It is very easy to play. Action is great right out of the box. Comfortable to hold and play.
Quality
Quality is OUTSTANDING! Well built. Appearance is very nice.
Value
This product is the best value you will ever find for the price. Great guitar for the money. Has to be best in Class.
Manufacturer Support
Have not had to use Martin for anything yet. The Zzounds staff is great. Very patient and very helpful and most of all very friendly.
The Wow Factor
I was blown away with this guitar. This is a guitar I will hold onto for the rest of my life.

Musical Background:

Hobbyist

Musical Style:

I have been playing as a hobbyist for about 30 years. Blues,Rock
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Submitted July 3, 2016 by Jesse A in Peoria, AZ

"Great purchase"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I've never owned a Martin before and the acoustic guitars I've owned have been good acoustics but acoustics on a budget.You can feel the craftsmanship in this guitar as you hold it and play it. It feels well built and smooth to play. You can actually smell the wood from the guitar and although this guitar is in the seven hundred dollar range, the investment in this guitar will exceed itself. I never quite understood the difference between a hundred dollar guitar and more expensive guitar and my take after owning this is the sheer craftsmanship of the guitar is what separates them. This Martin doesn't look cheap, feel cheap or play cheap. It feels like you're driving a Cadillac as compared to a Kia. They both get you from point a to point b but one gets you there in Luxury. I didn't buy this guitar merely for brand name but I wanted a great guitar that I could always keep and not feel like I shortchanged myself, and this guitar is exactly that. It's a well crafted, deep but rich sounding guitar and one that I will always keep. The Martin brand has lived up to its reputation. I personally feel that the guitar comes even more alive when plugged into an amp and I'm not disappointed in the acoustics when plugged in by any stretch but am excited to plug it in and play it for crowds. I debated inwardly to myself if it was worth it to purchase a guitar of this price but after getting it, I'm glad I purchased it. The case that comes with it is an added bonus. I would've purchased the guitar whether or not the case came with it but now I don't have to invest in one. This a guitar to be proud of in appearance, sound, craftsmanship and play-ability. I'm very happy with my purchase.

Musical Background:

14 years. DJ/Synths/Guitar Recording Musician

Musical Style:

Rock, folk, Indie
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Submitted March 23, 2018 by terry miller in middletown, OH

"love this guitar"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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i played this guitar as soon i received it. the guitar is amazing. i can't put it down. i would recommend this guitar to anyone wanting a sub 1000.00 guitar. The smell of the wood is awesome and the satin finish is what i like. there are bad reviews about the electronics in this guitar but i haven't found anything bad about it. good crisp lows and highs with or without the guitar plugged in. i will definately buy from zZounds again

Musical Background:

been playing guitar since i was 15 and am now 52 i jam at home and some clubs

Musical Style:

classic rock, old school country, some bluegrass
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Submitted July 17, 2011 by a customer from sympatico.ca

"DRS1?.....YES!"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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Ok....I would only trade this guitar for a Guild jumbo 6 string worth at least $2000....or an Olsen....in a nutshell....It would take a great and very expensive guitar to make me give this one up!
Sound
This guitar is clear and deep sounding....it sounds wonderful with light to medium strumming and is a fantastic finger picker. A very expressive guitar with a sweet and very Martin like sound. If it could handle heavy strumming I would have given it a 10....but to be fair you really have to be very heavy handed to make it break up even a little bit. For my style of playing Folk/Country/Rock ballads it is awesome! It is very hard for me to stop playing this guitar. Very melodious when strummed...not clashy sounding. Finger picking heaven! Great projection and volume...in short...I love it!
Features
Martin put Lifespan SP strings on this guitar...along with a natural sounding Fishman Sonitone pickup with volume and tone control easily accessed in the soundhole...and to top it off, they even put a perfectly mounted strap pin on the neck heel...God Bless you Martin for giving me a complete package (including a hardshell case)! This guitar is gig ready and wanting for nothing!
Ease of Use
Ok....I just have to give this a 10 as it is a very comfortable and easy to play neck. I also like the overall weight balance. The tone control is helpful. I run it through a Crate Taos amp and all I have to do is scoop out some lower mids to get it sounding very natural.
Quality
8...Immaculate workmanship, beautiful grain, tuners are very nice too. Gave it an 8 as the pickup needed adjustment to even out the string to string volume balance. This should have been checked by their quality control before it left the factory.
Value
This is The Best Value for the money....I compared this guitar with many others worth a little less and a lot more and hands down this one is a clear winner. Had I been strictly a finger picker I may have chosen another brand, however for both strumming and fingerpicking the DRS1 was the best sounding ... piano like deep clear bottom, thick and clear trebles and plenty of mids. Easy to play and delightful to strum. All this in a guitar that can be plugged in too....amazing! Mr. Martin, you made a great Guitar in the DRS1!
Manufacturer Support
Can't rate them as I haven't had to contact them. Adjusted the pickup myself so did not need to send it in for service.
The Wow Factor
I love the simplistic beauty of this guitar....no bling, just beautiful wood grain!

Musical Background:

Part time Musician

Musical Style:

Folk/Rock
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Submitted January 1, 2018 by Cintia Scola in Bellevue, ID

"This guitar is everything you dream about a great guitar!!!!!!!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I had a gig at the day I got my guitar and I just took it out of the box and performed with my new guitar. I was completely in love with it!!! The vibrant, bright, balanced sound just got me.The guitar feels so light and amazes me how it can produce such a wonderful sound.My guitar was made in Pensilvanya and shipped from Mississipi to me in Idaho where the weather is so much dryer. Well, the next day I coudnt play the guitar because the weather changed the neck completely. So I ordered the right tool and my husband worked on the truss rod for me and my guitar was back to life more amazing than ever!!!!! I totally recomend this guitar! You wont regret, believe me.Im trying different tunnings and even composing new songs..Im totally inspired by its sound.Thank you Martin!!!! Thank zZounds!!!!

Musical Background:

I am a singer, composer and voice coach. I've been playing professionally for at least 40 years.

Musical Style:

Indie, folk
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Submitted November 21, 2011 by a customer from yahoo.com

"You will be amazed with this guitar!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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This review has been selected by our experts as particularly helpful.
This is a keeper for life as far as I am concerned.
Sound
Just rings, absolutely beautiful Martin sound. I put elixir medium acoustic strings and new ebony pegs on, and it opened up even more. I have owned many guitars (guilds, fenders mainly). This is possibly the best sounding guitar I have ever played and for the money hands down the best.
Features
The internal battery is a bit of a bummer, but the fishman pick ups are excellent.
Ease of Use
Plays like butter. Excellent action, smooth, no fret buzz, perfect allignment.
Quality
Like a brick. The sapelle is beautiful and the construction is very nice, despite the Mexico built factor (I don't think you could tell the difference honestly, but maybe resale will be a factor versus USA)
Value
Instrument wise, this is the best purchase I have ever made.
Manufacturer Support
N/A

Musical Background:

25 years

Musical Style:

Rock, Blues, Folk
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Submitted November 1, 2011 by a customer from bellvillemusic.com

"World Class Acoustic at Mid-Class Price"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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This is a lifetime, never-get-rid-of product. Decades...
Sound
Simply put, after playing 35 years, with this DS Martin, I have my first world class acoustic guitar. I've owned dozens of acoustics and electrics. Speaking specifically to the acoustics, this guitar, with Sapele wood body from Africa (a relative of the more expensive Adirondack Mahogany that Martin uses on its $3000 and $6000 and $8000 guitars) is simply incredible. The projection of the sound and the feel, is out of this world. I admit, I played this model at a large retailer before ordering from zzounds in order to take advantage of the payment system. I could not be happier.
Features
The only reason I do not give this a 10 is I will have to reach my hand inside the sound hole when I need to replace the 9v battery. Otherwisde, the qualities are there.
Ease of Use
As acoustic guitars go, this one belongs on stage. It has a great acoustic sound that is very, very difficult to put down. I am exploring alternative tunings like never before, because drop D and drop C is magical.
Quality
Made in Mexico, there was one flaw on the headstock and zzounds comped me $85 because of it. Made very, very well.
Value
Great value.
Manufacturer Support
Zzounds' support is second to none. I compare them as better than AMS and Music. Friend, by a long shot. Clearwater did not accept my credit card, zzounds did. I own a home and I paid off so many products that are listed on my credit report. So I told Clearwater officials, thanks but no thanks in the future.
The Wow Factor
Great look and feel. The dark wood is awesome.

Musical Background:

35 yrs/active musician in Christian music

Musical Style:

Rock/Jazz Christian
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Submitted July 18, 2018 by Taylor Kirkland in Picayune, MS

""Best purchase ever!""

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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So I bought this guitar spontaneously because I was desperate for a new one. Best decision I've ever made. The sound, the look, the feels of it. Absolutely amazing. I do not regret my decision whatsoever.
Sound
I love the sound quality of this guitar. I looked at lots of reviews and comparisons. This guitar has such a rich tone. It's perfect.
Features
I haven't found a bad feature on this guitar yet.
Ease of Use
It's like butter playing on this guitar. The neck is shaped perfectly and the Satin finish on the neck really makes it easier to slide your hand up and down the neck without it getting stuck.
Quality
I could tell that this guitar was made with love and compassion. If you keep this guitar maintained, it could last forever.
Value
This price is very negotiable. You cant find it cheaper anywhere else.
Manufacturer Support
N/A
The Wow Factor
What amazes me is the hardshell case that comes with it! So worth it!

Musical Background:

8 years playing guitar and 5 years of playing at church and other places.

Musical Style:

Rock, blues, jazz, and christian
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Submitted March 13, 2017 by Harry Monroe in Lansdale, PA

"Amazing quality at a great price"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I don't think you can find a better, higher quality guitar, at this price point anywhere. Not to mention the very nice case that comes with it. The guitar is all Martin, with beautiful sound, tone, and build quality. You simply cannot go wrong with this instrument. I smile every time I pick it up and play.

Musical Background:

Playing for 40 years. I own about 30 guitars, Strats, Gibsons, Taylor, Gretsch, Ibanez, Epiphone, I play for pleasure.

Musical Style:

Rock and blues mostly, some folk.
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Submitted January 22, 2014 by Adam S in Boston, MA

"The Real Deal"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Love this guitar! Tried many different brands and finally decided I wanted something solid wood on a budget, easier said then done. Enter the DRS1. This guitar has amazing sound and plays like a dream. I wasn't sure about the stratabond neck, but it's really top quality and very comfortable to play. Action was perfect out of the box. Sapele wood is beautiful and smells sweet. No imperfections in workmanship whatsoever. Basically, I can't recommend this guitar enough. Don't listen to anyone that says you need to spend a fortune to get that Martin sound - this is the real deal.

Musical Background:

Hack

Musical Style:

Christian, bluegrass
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Submitted July 21, 2014 by Daylan C in Robbinsville, NC

"Best Guitar"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I've played other martins such as HD-28 etc and this one by far plays, sounds, and feels better than any other!

Musical Background:

Play in 3 bands

Musical Style:

Country,bluegrass,gospel
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Submitted October 4, 2017 by Nick R in Lafe, AR

"Such a wonderful instrument"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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This Martin guitar sounds as beautifully as its crafted. I have always wanted to own a Martin but didn't want to spend my life savings, this guitar far exceeded my expectations. It plays beautifully and has that infamous Martin tone. I'm extremely satisfied with my purchase!

Musical Background:

Started with Harmonica, have progressed to vocals and guitar. I have been involved in live shows for the past 7-8 years.

Musical Style:

country, blues, southern rock, gospel
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Submitted January 3, 2018 by Lindsey L in Blue Springs, MO

"Very Impressed"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Love love love this guitar. Feels great in my hands and zZounds pay to play plan is outstanding. I'm excited to play this out at gigs and open mics

Musical Background:

Playing 9 years - Guitar, acoustic mainly, play local gigs and such. For fun.

Musical Style:

Country, Folk, Variety
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Submitted October 3, 2014 by Robert Bastian in CHicago, IL

"Martin DRS1"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Amazing guitar. Much sweeter to my ears that anything else in the price range. I've never been so happy with a guitar purchase. Plus arrived quicker than I was quoted and was price matched with brick and mortar store. Fantastic guitar and wonderful buying experience.

Musical Background:

25 years playing guitar. Ex professional, now in a weekend coverband.

Musical Style:

70's-2000's rock
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Submitted January 10, 2018 by Romeo C in Bartlett, IL

"My very 1st strum... is like having an orgasm!!!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Very fast shipping and simply the MOST BEAUTIFUL-SOUNDING guitar you will ever own. This guitar should be in the $3,000.00 price range. If not, higher. I bought this over the phone and as soon as I hung-up, I looked over my front porch and there it is right at the door. As usual, the sales people are patient, good-listeners, well-mannered and very helpful. 1) Action is low so it is also great for someone who is just learning coz it gives perfect motivation to play. 2) Stays in tune after heavy, fast strumming.3) Wood smells good, it is so good I wanna swallow the guitar whole so no one else could play.4) Sounds full even for finger-picking. I feel like a pro and better than Ed Sheeran.5) I like the non-gloss finish coz I feel it resonates and vibrates to my chest each note.6) and much more.I will definitely recommend this guitar to my close friends and relatives.

Musical Background:

I play guitars, drums, keys, Ukuleles, with myself etc. 25 years of playing pop rock, folks, rock, RandB, reggae, and ballads.
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Submitted February 4, 2014 by Michael L in orange park, FL

"Martin DRS1 Road Series Guitar WOW!!!"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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1st off spending that amount of money was still a bit for me especially when the guitar is made in mexico. But I was sold on the Martin name and hoped it would hold to their tradition. WOW it sounds rich, full and looks beautiful, well worth it!!
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Submitted April 26, 2016 by Ron G in Winnipeg, MB

"Amazing Guitar"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Went into a local music store looking for a solid wood body guitar. Tried the DRS1 first and then tried several top of the line guitars and kept coming back to this one. The sound is incredible and at this price is it a steal.

Musical Background:

Christian Worship 10 years

Musical Style:

Country, blues, christian
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Submitted March 30, 2017 by Aaron W in Norfolk, VA

"Amazing guitar"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I absolutely love this guitar! You get both rich lows and clear highs. This is my second guitar and I can't see me ever going to anything else.

Musical Background:

Acoustic guitar 3 years piano 25 years jam at home

Musical Style:

Country, christian
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Submitted January 10, 2019 by Fabio V in Riverside, CT

"Martin DRS1"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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incredible guitar. it sounds amazing. inexpensive for the quality.

Musical Background:

20 years
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Submitted May 16, 2013 by Jeremy T in Claude, TX

"It is what it is"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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I'd played a dozen or so of these over the years in different guitar shops and only ever grabbed one that wasn't incredible. The bad one had a bad neck set and wasn't straight at all. I finally had the money and the urge at the same time and so I grabbed one about a month ago. Haven't regretted it for a second. The solid Sapele back, sides, and soundboard alone make this guitar a stellar deal. The stratabond neck, though not my first choice for looks, it strong, stable, and that's not the mention the modified D neck shape, which feels so good. The electronics leave a little to be desired. The 9v Fishman has the expected piezo 'quack', but can be cleaned up with just some very basic EQ in a DI, or through some decent digital effects processors. I'm not a fan of the combo endpin/strap button, so the first thing I did was pull it and install a standard jack on the bottom bought, fill the hole with a piece of ebony from the shop, and put on strap locks. After a pretty basic setup (shaving the saddle, tightening the tuners, etc) the thing plays like a dream. The warmth of the guitar is my favorite part. Not to mention the fact that it smells incredible (I know... but wait until you stick your hear right down close to the soundhole to hear better the first time and you'll know what I'm talking about). Overall I wouldn't necessarily recommend this for a first guitar, as the subtleties of the sounds and tone might get lost on a novice, but for an addition to a well rounded collection, you will be hard pressed to find better in the price range. The TKL case is an added bonus, though I will soon be replacing it with an SKB.

Musical Background:

Worship leader and touring musician
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Submitted March 18, 2015 by martin huizar in OCEANSIDE, CA

"smooth action, superb sound!"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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It's been years since I've picked up a guitar And finally decided to get an acoustic, I learned on bass then picked up on electric. I'm very satisfied to say the least with this guitar. The sapelle looks AMAZING! Can't wait to get this baby broken in and get the aged sound out of it. The case is amazing as well! Came extremely fast even with receiving an email stating it could be delayed due to the winter storms during the period.

Musical Background:

25 years, percussions, bass guitar, electric guitar, trombone, piano, organ, saxophone

Musical Style:

All
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Submitted May 25, 2013 by Pedro Ferreira in Viseu, NA

"My first Martin guitar"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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This is my Martin guitar. I have 2 acoustic fender guitar and one Godin nylon guitar. And this guitar are my best steel guitar that i have or heard in any music shop. I like the wood, sapele from african, and is all solid guitar. The tone is dark, the bass is string and good projection and beautiful highs but not thin. The only thing I don't like is the board that is not wood and be warm when play at sun and the pick-guard be stash easily. It come with a good bag and a simple but good sound pickup from fishman. Its really nice guitar and is a pleaser do a chords bar in this guitar. Love it!

Musical Background:

Play for 30 years

Musical Style:

Blues, Rock, Pop
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Submitted January 1, 2015 by Byron M in Cambridge Bay, NU

"great combo deal!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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The electric-acoustic and case (included) is very good quality. The case is very nice and will protect your guitar like you would expect. The guitar has a very nice feel and is built of high quality. Has a very nice sound that exceeds my expectations. Can't be any happier with the awesome sounding electric-acoustic plus a great case for it for a great price.

Musical Background:

I have been playing for over 5 years. I play guitar, bass and drums. I play for church and at home

Musical Style:

Christian
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Submitted February 13, 2019 by Gregg H

"Martin DRS1 sounds good but mine was not made well"

Overall: 1.5 out of 5 stars
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Bought my first Martin a little over 2 years ago and first I had a saddle issue that cost me about $100 and now the back is cracked right up the middle seam. Martin claims dried out but this guitar hangs on a wall in a room with numerous other guitars and mandolins, some have been there 12+ years, and no other instrument has ever had an issue. DRS1 sound is great but if you want something that you can just play and not have to pamper I would get a taylor or takemine, or probably just about anything but a Martin DRS1.

Musical Background:

40 years, owner of a number of guitars (taylor, takemine, rodriguez, etc.) as well as mandolins.

Musical Style:

acoustic classic rock
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Submitted July 30, 2015 by Kenson K in Pukalani, HI

"One of the Best Guitars ... Period!"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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Just received my Martin DRS1 from Zzounds today, just two days after ordering it online as promised... and that's saying a lot coming from someone living in Hawaii! I didn't expect it to be delivered on time because Zzounds is HQ'd in New Jersey, but it came from their warehouse in Reno, NV. They had the lowest shipping cost saving me a lot! The music store on my island refuses to carry the Martin line, though they carry almost every other guitar manufacturer. Something about Martin's lack of innovation and their using the same designs as they have for over a hundred years. Well, 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it!' This DRS1 outperforms every guitar in that store. It has that Martin sound ... rich, deep and resonant. I know of another brand that uses the latest in robotic manufacturing technique which helps in cranking out tons of instruments, but somehow their guitars sound metallic to me, like the robotic 'hands' that make them. The DRS1 is made in large part by the hands of Martin's skilled artisans in Mexico, and you can hear it in the sound of this instrument. Incredibly warm and allive! Some have criticized the 'made in Mexico' origin of this instrument, but as far as I'm concerned, they are producing one of the best guitars, period, in the DRS1. If you're thinking of getting one, my advice is to order it ASAP from Zzounds Music. You will not regret it!

Musical Background:

Have been playing for 55 years. I play the piano, guitar and bass for personal enjoyment and group singing.

Musical Style:

Rock, Country, Hawaiian, Show Tunes, Jazz, American Songbook and Worship.
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Submitted August 6, 2015 by Kenson K in Pukalani, HI

"UpDated Review"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
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After playing the Martin DRS1 extensively over the last week, here is an update to my previous review. This Martin has a fingerboard radius of 16" which is conducive to finger picking, bending and solo styles. A shorter radius is more conducive to chording and strumming, which is how I primarily play. I find the longer radius fretboards (like the one on the DRS1) make bar chords more difficult to hold, especially as I've grown older and my hands have grown weaker. To compensate, I've changed the original medium gauge strings that came with the DRS1 to an extra light, though I might switch to a custom light later. The DRS1 has such a rich, deep sound that making this switch has not detracted much from the quality of the tone, but it has radically increased the ease of making bar and jazz chords. I sent the Martin folks an email suggesting they offer a choice of either a 10 inch radius fingerboard or the current 16 inch board or even a combination board on ALL their models, and not just the custom ones, in order to offer the perfect set up for various types of players. It is unfortunate that the radius of the fingerboard is not usually mentioned in the specs of guitars, especially since it often determines how easy or comfortable it is to play them.

Musical Background:

Have been playing for 55 years. I play the piano, guitar and bass for personal enjoyment and group singing.

Musical Style:

Rock, Folk, Jazz, Country, Christian, Hawaiian.
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Submitted February 22, 2013 by Winston W in Moncton, NB

"Martin DRS1"

Overall: 2 out of 5 stars
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Had this guitar for four months. Got to be the worst I've ever had. Had it back about 10 times to get set up but still buzzing a lot. Changed the strings to Light as suggested but that didn't do anything. I am not getting good service from the martin guitar.

Musical Background:

20 years. Play electric and acoustic

Musical Style:

Country and Bluegrass
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Submitted January 13, 2012 by Nathan D in Charlotte, NC

"A World-Class Acoustic Sound and Look. Unbelievably priced. "

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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It is amazing that this guitar is sold at the price point it is. I did some serious playing research before I chose to purchase this guitar. Over the course of three months, I identified six or so guitars that I had read enough about, heard enough about, or seen enough of to possibly want to own one as my next guitar. The list had alot of the regulars on it: Gibson, Martin, Taylor, Takamine, Breedlove, and one dark horse, Wechter. I played all of them, sometimes making more than three trips to the shop to play them again. Near the end of the process, I was down to two Martins. The DCPA4 and the DRS1. Playing the two, I'd be happy with either (who wouldn't!?). But the DRS1 was much warmer and still displayed that Martin clarity along with it. And the beauty of the Sapele top is a sight to see. Much better in person than in online photos. Much. On top of that, it has a lower price tag than the DCPA4. So, the DRS1 was an easy choice. To me, the sound of the DRS1 most closely resembles the Martin D-18. Which is why I am surprised that Martin sells it for so much less than the D18 ($1700 less!). It's safe to say I am now a very happy DRS1 owner. **I went back and forth on this, but my reasoning for not giving it a full five stars is that the location for the Fishman's battery is a bit tricky to get to.**
Sound
The sound is addicting. I find myself wanting to simply take it out of the case and strum a chord and just let it resonate. Very warm, with excellent clarity on fingerpicked notes as well as strummed chords. I couldn't be happier with the sound and sustain. Plugged in, the Fishman Sonitone sounds great. The best Fishman setup I've ever played is the new F1, which stands above all, but this Sonitone sounds better than most I've played (with one caveat I'll mention below under support).
Features
The sound and playability are what jump out at me the most. Upon first seeing it, other players first remark at the beauty of the wood...but then the sound is what sticks with them in the end.
Ease of Use
Out of the box, as with most Martins, it sounded good but I could tell that a setup would really bring out its potential. I had one done in the first week and I was right. With some minor tweaking, the guitar plays very nicely and sounds very good. (I should mention that I prefer my action to be lower than the average player. Not quite electric guitar-like, but fairly low compared to say, a bluegrass player.)
Quality
Very sturdy craftsmanship. Frets and seams and all the components and edges are well put together and smooth. It just has a quality look and feel. The wood and grain looks amazing. This guitar should be a lifetime keeper for me.
Value
The DRS1 is absolutely worth the price. Honestly, as I said before, it could be sold for much more and nobody would argue after playing it.
Manufacturer Support
I did have to call for customer service within the first week. The Fishman pickup wasn't working at all. I contemplated a return after digging into the Fishman's connections to no avail. After disconnecting/reconnecting all the available connections, I noticed that the saddle wasn't seated properly. After all that, the system has worked flawlessly. Not sure what connection it was, but what ever it was must have come loose in shipping. I then cancelled the return.
The Wow Factor
The look of the Sapele ALWAYS solicits gasps or wows from all who see it. Online pictures really don't do the color justice. It is much darker and more similar to that of the shade of brown that you see in pictures of Martin's D-15, only with a much more appealing luster and complexity to the wood grain. (The wood actually SMELLS good too. ha.) The sound is also a wow factor. It combines the usual excellent clarity/tone of a Martin with a warmer low/mid than you're used to hearing in a Martin.

Musical Background:

I've been playing about 23 years total. I sing, play guitar and bass. I play in bands, groups, open mics, churches.

Musical Style:

Rock, folk, singer-songwriter stuff.
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