Cheaper Martin?

[tomkatzz]

I'm looking here:

http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/hom...ation?q=martin

.....and seeing a wide range of Martins/prices.

The lesser expensive Martins, say, the D-15. What's the difference? Is it going to be the sound? Or maybe it's not going to stay in tune? Or does it fold in two if you wind the strings too tight?

I'm not a performer. I'm just interested in having a good acoustical.

[elcid]

I bought one for my wife, it's great. She;s had it for 2 years now with no issues.

[David McCarroll]

To the best of my knowledge, they are still made in Nazareth PA, in the same shop as all of the D-28s and D-41s etc - the difference is mainly in the level of ornamentation (ie: on a D-15 basically none - not even binding around the top from memory), and on some of the least expensive models I believe the back and sides may be laminated (plywood)

If you look inside the soundhole of almost any modern Martin it has "Use Light or medium gauge strings only" stamped on a brace - I have had a 000-16C for about ten years now - a somewhat battered little guitar which saw far more abuse on stage than she deserved, but she still sounds lovely.

[David McCarroll]

Just had a look - that D-15 custom with the Rosewood back and sides sounds like a fantastic deal!

[elcid]

My tech swears that the quickest way to ruin any acoustic is to use anything heavier than light strings. Im sure alot of people will disagree, but Im not going to take any chances.

[bikeman]

The 15 series Martins are made of Mahogany/Sapele and have minimum decoration. Ohter than that, they're a full USA built Martin and come with a hardcase. I have a J-15 and a J12-15 and they're beautiful guitars. I love the smoky/mellow tone you get from an all-hog acoustic.

Try one - I'm sure you'll like it.

[Rotti]

All of the Martins are excellent. The 15 series being probably the best deal of all.