The Top 8 Martin Guitars in 2023

Martin stands as one of the rare few brands that have remained at the forefront level of producing high caliber guitars. That’s why, we decided to dedicate this article to the best martin guitars out there. The brand’s viewpoint is outstanding and solid when it comes down to craftsmanship, versatility, and use of innovative elements and intonation.

Martin has a very broad variety of countless series filled with acoustic guitars that will always possess something made just for your taste. It doesn’t matter what size, sound or scale, you can always find a guitar for your performance level, and for whichever style you may want to play.

Nowadays, many of the inventive guitar patterns designed by Martin have grown to be the ground setting norm for the manufacturers, with customers and retailers regarding Martin’s guitars as the benchmark of excellence boldness and execution.

Taking an example, the brand’s orchestra and dreadnought designs are ranked as the greatest in acoustic guitars universally. Martin has superb playability and delivers with a trademark quality that leaves the rest of the competitors with a run for their funds. Today, their series of acoustic-electronic guitars are the golden standard other manufacturers are attempting so hard to imitate.

Martin is one of the many classical guitar producers in the United States, which was founded back in 1833. Now, the brand is still maintained and managed by the Martin family, and they operate at grand measures to match the tradition of excellence and craftsmanship started by Frederick Martin so many years ago. As you might foresee from a luthier who’s been in the industry for so long, Martin can take in its account for several design characteristics that have heightened the industry standards today. The best examples of the two models are apparently scalloped bracing and the dreadnought shape concerning acoustic guitars. If you aspire to go right to the source to get a dreadnought from the very people who designed it in the first place, you’re then as near as possible you can be to that demand, you can do that just by checking out Martin’s astonishing series of guitars.

A Quick Look At Martins Best Models

Martin’s brand possesses a broad variety of numerous forms and quantities of guitars. Each conveys a distinct combination of tone characteristics, but nonetheless, all of their acoustics highlight the distinct essence of a Martin guitar.

The opportunities are infinite, and I am pleased to bring to you in this article the all-inclusive variety of Martin guitars, so you will not have any difficulty discovering the proper Martin Guitar for yourself. Matter fact, this alone may take more of your time that you may have reserved for a guitar considering all the quality guitars this brand offers to you while narrowing down the options.

Types Of Martin Guitars

Finding the best guitar is pretty hard because there is a lot to look for. That’s why, in this article we will break it down for you.

The primary subject you will need to address before purchasing a Martin is to acknowledge the size and configuration that will accommodate to your method of playing.

Do you have a short stature? Are your fingers short? Rather, do you fancy a guitar with a petite body shape? Then you might examine one of the variants in the Little Martin Series.

Another alternative for people who prefer travel-friendly guitars is that you can find in the 000 series or Orchestra shaped guitars lineup. These Martin’s provide the player with a slimmer body than the regular full-sized dreadnought models.

They are more compact for carrying around if you’re looking to rock on in that next camping trip. Furthermore, if you are looking for something with a significantly more powerful sound and projection, then you can start looking for Martin’s dreadnought guitar line.

Given that the dreadnought is their trademark creation these guitars render a persuasive deep rhythm as no other brand has ever been able to produce and their astonishing rolling bass keys emerge from their massive sound bodies.

Which is the Best Martin Guitar?

Based on the aspects mentioned above, we consider the following to be the best martin guitars:

8. Martin LXM

A distinctive splendid alternative from Martin’s “Little Martin” line and it is exceptional for the fact that this alternative brings out the decoration with a potent laminate spruce design structure for a heightened character of the guitar and a brilliant quality projection.

This guitar is considered as the ideal choice for the guitar player who likes to travel and move around continuously while having his guitar around him a lot.

This guitar possesses six fabulous strings that are flawlessly arranged on the Micarta fretboard, its structure is constructed with a strong genuine bridge. Similarly just like the most of its forerunners in the identical series
of the design, this Little Martin is equipped with a low, overly fashion neck that additionally contains mortise, Martin’s own licensed design.

Martin additionally combines a Gotoh tuner that guarantees that the instrument produces and maintains a harmonious sound and provides the player with a consistent quality of vibe. Its headstock wears the popular Martin logo for a nick of elegance. The sound composition is wonderful, and the warmness this guitar produces fulfills its vitality for stage execution. Read the Martin LXM review for more detailed information.

7. Martin LX1E Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Martin’s LX1E is a well-defined design from “Little Martin” line even though it is very known for the outstanding fact that it is very portable, it still provides the player with a splendidly powerful tone. When we are writing in regard to the sound this little Martin makes this guitar delivers more than its size impersonates at the first encounter with it. The LX1E is that kind of acoustic guitar that furthermore allows management of electronic elements.

The decorative top of this guitar highlights a solid Sitka spruce type for a richer sound, which moreover compliments the rear structure that is composed of a high-quality laminate mahogany wood body, also including here the sides are decorated just alike. Similarly, the guitar has a gracious satin polish that decorates its classic look and delightful features.

As foreseen, this acoustic is very light in weight and its size accommodates to a highly compact and compressed body frame. Granted, incorporated in the package is a support pole, which is easily accessible by utilizing a 5mm Allen tug.

If you are passionate about playing with this compact fella someplace outdoors, then this is the perfect guitar made just for that purpose. It is well-fitting for traveling, powering it up it around campfires or jamming continuously during a barbecue. Still not sure if this guitar is for you? Read our Martin LX1E full review to learn more about this guitar.

6. Martin LX

At a first glance, when you take a look at this guitar, you might deceive yourself into believing it is not more useful than a little toy, and we understand where that can come from, given its small shape and its “Little” name. However, by the point you have this baby in your hands playing it, you will realize that appearance can be deceitful. That is precisely what this guitar contributes – a modest look with a deep stable performance.

Little Martin’s an attractive option for guitarists who prefer moving from one place to another. The body emphasizes a pattern that impersonates several material elements, which allows the guitar for a greater sound production under circumstances of an excruciatingly high amount of humidity.

The neck is all roundly decorated with Martin’s mortise, and stable spruce bracing. About just right, the neck and body are adjusted to match well into the above chamber without creating confusion.

The sound character this guitar provides is unique, and it has a powerful projection for such a small-sized instrument. It is well-equipped with everlasting sustainability, and it’s very reliable when you’re planing to takke it with you on your travels.

5. Martin DRS2 Dreadnought

Martin’s Road line presents the industry with the DRS2, Martin’s DRS2 acoustic-electronic guitar grants you an astonishing sound and fashionable satisfying features all in a travel-friendly instrument. Top, back and sides are bolstered for a supreme vibration and projection, and the DRS2’s smooth strumming, the modified low oval neck is constructed with excellent hardwood for increased tonality and everlasting durability. The belly platform and fingerboard are built of Black Richlite, which has a comparable look and similar smooth feel to ebony. By simply strumming it once you’ll recognize that you’re possessing that trademark sound quality a Martin produces.

Martin’s DRS2 is the perfect selection for strummers who are inquiring exceptional value on a series of affordable product. The DRS2 highlights 14 frets that serve to mold the quality of sound and playability that gives this design such an outstanding value.

The form of the instrument emphasizes a dreadnought structure from the best wood spruce material Sapele, which is popular for presenting long-lasting sound and warmth in projection, the back also is decorated with a Sapele design, the cover showcases the best features of Sitka spruce for flawless stability, resonance, and effectual projection.

The neck of the DRS2 highlights a hardwood material pattern that is well roundly crafted to accommodate Martin’s trademark profile, which is made more probable as a result of the ergonomic configuration taper for an accurate hand fretting movement.

With the 20 first certified fingerboards and its richlite design, the DRS2 stores unbeatable ease and playability. Flaunting Fishman Sonitone, which helps you tune the guitar and plug it, the DRS2 immediately earns its nickname as the most intuitive guitar that is sufficiently fit for the spotlight at any moment when called upon. To finish up, i would say that you should read the Martin DRS2 review to learn everything about it.

4. Martin DRS1 Dreadnought

Martin’s DRS1 is the core example of what being portable means when you’re talking about one of the soundest guitars in the Martin road classification. The DRS1 is created to aid the traveling performance of the passionate guitarist. It has a fretboard width that measures 1-3/4 inches in size all of which contribute to rendering a compact model for the individual benefit of the traveling player.

Despite of its mass and stability, the guitar produces an astonishing pleasant sound. Traditionally, the use of a multiple laminate strateabond which furnishes it with added rigidity and stability which could have sprinkled down the effectual quality. However, Martin guarantees that their essence of making quality guitars remains the same.

Covering the highly decorated body, the top, back, and sides of the DRS1 highlights a compact Sapele wood design that transcends in clear vibration and solid projection.

As we mentioned in our full Martin DRS1 review, Its fingerboard and the under bridge are decorated with Richlite material that appears to have the look of the ebony models.

Furthermore, the brand additionally includes the popular sound coating system: “Fishman Sonitone” with its preamp installed makes a great use for volume and tonality inside the sound hole. With the assistance of the battery, you can effortlessly fire up the Sonitone and experience a beautiful quality switch mechanism.

3. Martin DX1RAE

Martin’s DX1RAE is a different successful example in the X series of Martin. This model gives a polished spruce material at the top of the instrument, which magnifies its rich and completely eloquent sound. The identical spruce material composition manages the rear and sides of the guitar. An artistic HPL Indian Rosewood design construction covers up the back and sides of the gutiar similarly. The neck of the guitar coupled up with the all-round-body design forward with the tenon and a licensed mortise configuration for the highest tone direction.

For the passionate musician that is on the end of his resources, the embodiment of the Fishman electronics presents this limelight equipped guitar that delivers prime class production.

This 6 stringed and d-14 guitar platform links effectively with the dreadnought to produce a powerful harmonious tone that is ideal for studio and spotlight performance. With an optimized loud sound at your call, the DX1RAE is the instrument you must-have for the times you’ll need to perform on the spotlight.

2. Martin D-18E

A fashionable timeless traditional acoustic guitar is always going to be a great idea for a unique present to be given to a loved one, and if you’re still wondering what’s the best gift to give someone you care about, then, look no further than the thrilling journey you can bestow upon them by buying this guitar for them. Martin’s D 18E Retro this cool guitar is all that a player needs to hit the spotlight and perform the best of their guitar skills anywhere they may find themselves.

This outstanding guitar highlights a six-string pattern that fills up with a smooth hand-feel on a fingerboard made from the ebony material. Its natural coating makes this guitar a must-have instrument for the constant player who fancies a guitar that appeals both in elegance and quality.

Discussing concerning the quality, this Retro-Martin guitar performs flawlessly beyond all limitations. For example, the guitar emphasizes a compact mahogany wood design for the rear end and sides of the guitar. The top is built of solid spruce body structure, and the insertion of Fishman electronics howls out that this guitar is a full acoustic-electric instrument that produces a blend of rich and enjoyable tone.

From the fine size and place this guitar takes, you can tell that this guitar is out to kick it in the limelight without any restriction regarding adaptability. It earns its name as the instrument that is designed for the sole benefit of the expert musician or exceptional guitarist.

Overall, it produces an exceptional reverb; its tonality is both favorable and warm, proffering up a unique acoustic feel. This is the guitar that will make a whole crowd rock and it will spur a whole new level of excitement to the player. Check out our Martin D-18E review for more information!

1. Martin D-28

The Martin D-28 fully deserves its spot on this best martin acoustic guitars list, and there are a lot of reasons for that.

When you see this guitar for the first time, it looks just like any other ordinary dreadnought guitar. The magic happens when you pick it up and start to play it.

It has a Sitka spruce top, Indian Rosewood back & wides, and a select hardwood neck. In the past, I’ve mentioned how much i loved hardwood necks, because they are very easy to hold and it plays a huge part in the playability of this guitar.

When it comes to the sound, i would say that it has one of the most unique tones out there. I’ve played a lot of different guitars during my 20+ years in the music industry, but I’ve never heard something similar to the D-28. If you are a classical rock music lover, then this guitar will be the best option for you. This is because it sounds exactly like some of the most popular vintage acoustic songs out there. It was played by popular performers such as Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash.

Since it has a high-quality solid wood construction, this guitar will age well. This means that the tone of the guitar will improve over time.

The D-28 is not cheap, and i there is a clear reason why. You definitely get good value for your money. The Martin D-28 is very durable, and if you decide to buy it, you can rest assured that even your grandchildren will be able to play it.

Personally, i’ve played a lot of guitars from martin in my career, and I’ve had nothing but good things to say about them. The D28 is not an exception. This is by far my most favorite guitar out there, and if you have the money for it, I’d recommend it to you with my eyes closed.

With that being said, i would recommend this guitar to all beginner, intermediate and professional players. It’s one of the few Martin guitars you can’t go wrong with.

The Story Of Martin

The most desired of all acoustic guitars are made by C.F. Martin & Company. can cost you thousands of dollars for a deceptively plain-looking instrument.

This is especially true if you compare them to a Fender Strat or a Gibson in the same price range.

There is nothing plain about the sound and the craftsmanship, though. Martin guitars are made with the same care and attention to detail as they were over a century and a half ago.

A German immigrant who was tired of working under the strict guidelines of the Cabinet Makers Guild in Germany began making guitars in the United States (first in New York, then Pennsylvania) in 1833.

His name was Christian Frederick Martin, and he began a legacy that still survives and thrives today, headed by his great-great-great-grandson, C.F. “Chris” Martin IV.

Throughout the years, C.F. Martin guitars have been the leader in acoustic guitars.

When most people picture an acoustic guitar, they imagine a novice player, or a country performer.

However, almost every rock star out there has played an acoustic guitar at one time, and a many of them use an acoustic to pick out a tune while they write songs.

Reviewers agree Martin acoustic guitars are versatile…you don’t have to be a twangy country star to play one.

However, there have been some legendary country stars that favored a C.F. Martin guitar. Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash are a few.

Even Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain played one sometimes.

Over time, Martin became one of the big names in the music industry, and in recent years, some of their mile-markers are just amazing.

In 1990, Martin made the 500,000th guitar, and the one-millionth guitar came out of the factory in 2004.

That particular one is encrusted with rubies and diamonds, and is worth (what else?) one million dollars. The Martin guitar that Elvis played (in his last performance) was sold in 2009 for over $100,000.

C.F. Martin guitars have a rich history, and a legendary reputation.

It takes something special to stick around for over a century and a half, but C.F. Martin & Company has done just that.

What makes Martin Guitars special?

Guided by simplicity and durability Martin’s instruments are all crafted with careful consideration and precise craftsmanship. You can witness this in all of Martin’s series of guitars, their main purpose is it create instruments that flourish with pristine beauty and outstanding quality that excels across a broad range of sound, playability, convenience, versatility, durability and for all sporting styles. If you are an average or high-level player who demands a workhorse that carries remarkable finesse, Martin Guitars are undoubtedly something you can count on. This is one of those brands which provide the market with the kind of guitars that really do justice to their price tag.

On a different note, when you are traveling through these waters, Martin’s Guitars provides a certain level of guaranteed excellence you can count on. The fact that John Mayer picked OM-28 for his main guitar speaks volumes regarding the authentic production and essence of this brand.
So feel free to make a choice, and I’m sure you’ll have a new favorite guitar that you’ll always be thinking about. Pick what suits your style the most, and you won’t ever regret it. I hope this article will help you find the best martin acoustic guitars for your needs!

Do Brands Matter?

You probably know that martin is one of the most popular guitar manufacturers out there, and they gained all that popularity because their products are nothing but quality.

Sure, the price is much higher when compared to other brands such as Fender or Seagull, but with Martin, you get what you pay for, and that is the most important thing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are all Martin Guitars made in USA?

A lot of readers ask this question, and I can comfortably say that all Martin Acoustic Guitars are made in the USA, to be exact in Nazareth PA. However, there is an exception for the X Series, the Backpacker Series, and the Road Series which are made in Martin's Mexico facilities, but the quality is still pretty similar.

Why are Martin Guitars so expensive?

If you ask me, always buy things that will deliver the most value for your price and will also fit your needs. However, when it comes to a delicate instrument like an acoustic guitar, on which every change on its body will result in changes in tone, I think that you should invest in the best one, and Martin always makes perfect models consistently.

What artists use Martin acoustic guitars?

This is a question that many aspiring guitarists ask since their idols are their inspiration to create and pick up music. Martin guitars have been always used by the best musicians on the planet, thanks to the amazing quality and tones of these guitars. The list of artists includes Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, Kurt Cobain, Eddie Vedder and many more.

Who owns Martin Guitars?

When looking at the past of the Martin Guitars, most of the readers are very surprised to see that the company is still a family-owned business since its creation. Thanks to that the company has always been able to deliver the best products and their customer feedback was always perfect.