Martin HD-28 Acoustic

Made in 2003 in Nazareth, PA. The herringbone D-28 style. Sitka spurce top, solid rosewood back and sides, and a fat mahogany neck with an ebony fingerboard. Zigzag backstrip and Martin tuners.

I play a lot of classic rock and modern rock. It suits everything perfectly. I have never played an acoustic that's sounds this good. This guitar sings and projects better then any other acoustic I've played. At times, it is a bit boomy, but if can learn to control this beast, the rewards are amazing...

The guitar was set up perfectly, with no buzz when I purchased it. The strings were a little dead when I first played, but I fixed that when I took it home and let it's true colors show.

Aside from some fingerprints, the finish was flawless.

I like fat necks, I own a Les Paul, but this neck is pretty fat. It takes a little getting used to. If you play a Taylor and the HD28 side by side, the action on the Taylor is better and easier, but the tone wasn't there...

So far this guitar seems really durable. I would take it to a gig, but I fear that my precious would be stolen, therefore, I will only be using this guitar in house, practice, and studio...

Don't know, I've never dealt with them. But it comes with a lifetime warranty...:-)

I've been playing off and on for about 10 years... I own quite a few guitars, but this is my first acoustic. At first I played a Martin D15, D16, D18, D28, Taylor 410CE, 810 and a Guild D50. At first I went home with the Martin D15, which is a really nice guitar(Bang for the buck), but something was missing after I took it home and played it for a little over two weeks. Has a nice sound and I absolutely LOVED THE SMELl, but I was looking for something more. I returned it and test drove the other Martins in the room. Is saw the HD28 sitting up high on the wall, and the sales person let me play it. Hit the first E and C chord and I was in LOVE!!! I haggled about the price and got it well bellow the marked value... The sales guy was very cooperative. If this guitar was lost or stolen......well...it wouldn't be pretty...

This is a Martin HD 28 I purchased new in December of 1997. It has all the features of the HD 28 so you already know this. Nothing fancy, a real tried and true design with the intention of producing a great sound for a very long time. I guess I should say here that the scalloped bracing in the HD 28 really does make a difference and these sound better than the D 28s by a long shot, perhaps the best soudning of all the Martins really. Came with anice polyurethane case which is holding up very well.

Not all HD 28s sound the same. Please do yourself a favor and play a bunch of them before you buy. When you find the right one you will have the best guitar you can get your hands on. From the moment I touched it, this guitar has been magical. That does sound silly but it is the truth. This is the one you cannot put down, you want to play and play and play. It does everthing very well. Some have a pretty high action and are tough to play but his one is real nice. Still harder to play than Taylors and the like but the rewards are much greater. The sound is unbeatable, no more no less. Play it softly, hit it hard, you get true and fantastic sound.

From the factory this guitar was set up great and played great. Not all of them are like that I must say, but this one was perfect.

Yes this will last forever because I will take care of it and it was built for the long run. I am sort of amazed at a problem I had with the neck but it was taken care of by the folks at Martin. See the customer support section.

About 6 months after I got the guitar the neck warped very badly in several directions. It was like nothing I had ever seen. So it went back to the store where I bought it and they sent it back to Martin. Of course they did not send it when they said they did but that is not a reflection on Martin. When the factory got it they were very good, talked to me on the phone about progress and estimated time for repairs. They did an fabulous job of removing the neck and putting on a new one. The finish is flawless and you cannot tell that any of this happened. I have the guitar now almost 7 years and there has never been any problem since this neck thing. I have been to the factory 4 times on the tour and find the folks there are real nice and pretty committed to their work. I am not sure about how Martin handles repairs nowadays but this factory repair was a very good experience.

Have a couple of electrics but this is the Martin page so: I also own a 2 year old Martin D 12-28 which is the best 12 string I have ever found, the Martin DXK 2 for a decent sound around the campfireand beach, and a 1972 Guild D25 that is a nice old friend but is falling apart. Been playing for 34 years and as far as acoustics go the HD 28 is the best I think you can get for the money. Have played lots and lots of guitars and this is very hard to beat. More expensive does not mean a better sound. I would fall into a deep depression if this was stolen but I would try to find another one as soon as possible. It is not that easy to find as not all of these HD 28s sound the same. Other than the great sound my favorite feature is to stick my face in the soundhole and smell that rosewood back, not as pungent as the day I bought it but still a great smell.

I bought this guitar new in 1977. I believe they just came out in 1976. It hsa Indian Rosewood sides and back and spruce top. Scalloped braces, herringbone trim.

Big, bright accoustic sound. Nice tone. Intonation is good, but could be a little better.

Action was a little high for me, so I lowered the saddle slightly. Otherwise perfect everywhere.

Must be built like a tank. I quit playing for 20 years and it sat in a case. I didn't even ease the tension on the strings for a good part of that time. I started playing again a few months ago and it still plays very well. It's never been adjusted, but it could probably stand a very slight adjustment by a professional. Must use only medium or lighter guage strings due to scalloped braces. Only negative, it has a couple finish checks near the sound hole which showed up within a year or so of being new. Martin said this is normal, and they're not very noticible and have no effect on anything.

Has a lifetime warranty and never have had to do anything other than I've called them a couple times about questions and they were as good to deal with as I would expect.

Played about 12 years before I had to quit, 20 years later and I'm back at it. I'm very attached to the guitar. Could have easily sold it and came close, but glad I didn't.

See reviews below and http://www.martinguitar.com. IMHO, a rosewood box is the way to go. The herringbone trim is a nice extra. I looked at a HD-28V as well, but didn't like the Waverly tuners and the "carved" bridge. I had trouble with a D-18VS bridge, and didn't want to go through that hassle again. What the HD-28 is doesn't have, you don't need.

This guitar has got chutzpah. And soul. Words cannot describe. I played other Martins, Taylors, Santa Cruz, Tippin, Collings, nothing except maybe a Santa Cruz Pre-War D came close. My advice: DO NOT BUY A MARTIN OVER THE INTERNET. You must play it first. When you feel the sound resonating in the pit of your stomach, then you know you have a good one. There are plenty of "dead" Martins out there. Some got it, some ain't.

Set up nicely with medium gauge strings. It doesn't play as well as say, a Taylor, but it sounds a helluva lot better! I can't put it down.

I'm not going to bang it around, and I'm going to keep it well humidified. This is a silly question...

Dunno.

This is my fourth Martin in 25 years of playing, so far I think it is the best guitar I've owned. To reiterate: not all Martins are created equal. Play as many as possible until you find the one that "speaks".

2003 Martin HD-28 made right here in the USA. Pennsylvania to be exact. D-14 Fret, Solid Sitka Spruce Top. Solid East Indian Rosewood back and sides...go to www.martinguitar.com for all the specs. Everything is great. For the price a bone nut and saddle would have been nice. The herringbone trim looks amazing. This baby is a real classic.

I play mostly rock and this guitar is perfect for me. It is extremely loud. I wanted something that had great bass response while mainting nice clear highs. This is the guitar that has the perfect sound for me. (Be aware that the strings on the guitar make a huge difference in sound. For example, when I put Elixirs on the guitar sounds very bright...when I use the Martin SP's it is much bassier. Make sure you know what the music shop has put on the guitar you are playing.) I narrowed my search down to the HD-28 and the Taylor 814CE. In the end, the Taylor just didn't have the bass response I wanted. My advice...if you are a strummer get a nice Martin. The Taylors are made more for the finger pickers. I love the sound of my HD-28! Another quick word of advice...I played three different HD-28s. The one that I ended up getting sounded way better than the other two. Take your time when shopping. Play everything. I can not express my feelings on that enough. Play everything and make the right decision for you. Because if you are like me and have to sacrifice many other things to afford this type of guitar you don't want to make a mistake.

This guitar was set-up perfect for me from the factory. I like my action low. The action is low and I do not get any buzzing. PERFECT! One of the other HDs that I played had high action. That could have been corrected later, but it was a turn off right away. All the woods are beautiful!

It is a Martin...yes it will last.

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I have been playing 11 years. I own a a Seagull and a Fender. I also own a Gibson SG. If this guitar were stolen I would cry like a baby. I would then track down the culprit and put them in a world of pain. This really is the guitar I have been waiting through all the years I have been playing. I can't say enough good things about it.

Standard HD-28 features: Solid Sitka Spruce top, Solid Indian Rosewood sides & back, Solid Mahogany low-profile neck, Solid Ebony fingerboard and bridge, Herringbone top trim, scalloped X-bracing, Schaller tuners, Gloss finish, Martin Hardshell case.
Over the years I've owned/own a Martin D-15, Martin D-18, Martin D-28, Taylor 810, Gibson J-45 and this is easily the best sounding of them all. While the Taylor is probably the fanciest of them all, I've come to the conclusion that Taylor's strong suit is marketing and their guitars are simply overpriced.
The Martin HD-28 isn't too fancy nor too understated. In my opinion, it's what an acoustic guitar should look and sound like.

Soundwise the HD-28 is outstanding and definitely a noticable difference when compared to the standard D-28. It has great projection and very even bass, mids and treble.

The factory set-up was perfect, which isn't always the case. Action wise, Taylor guitars have about the lowest action of most any acoustic guitar around, but that isn't always the best thing for the sound. Martin strikes the proper balance between playability and tone.

I've never had a problem with any of my Martin's, but I've only had this one a few months.

Never had any dealings with Martin customer support.

I've been playing for 16 years and this is the best all around guitar I've ever owned. Easily worth the price upgrade from the standard D-28. I will probably replace the saddle and nut with bone and the bridge pins with ebony (fossilized Ivory is just too much). In short, this guitar has everything I want in an acoustic.

Mine is a 1990 Martin HD-28p, bought new. Custom options include large Martin headstock logo, pearl inlayed initials, gold schaller tuners, pearl string pegs, and real bone in the nut and bridge (installed after purchase). Sitka spruce top, rosewood sides, ebony fingerboard, scalloped bracing, moulded case.

I was a University student when I bought this guitar. I had owned 3 mid-grade acoustics and several electrics when I stumbled across a dealer going out of business. I played a couple of D 28's, a D-35, and was about to leave the store, when he handed me his own personalized HD 28. Well, you know what happened next...I was ruined to go back to my old acoustic. The HD had volume, balance, comfort...not to sound weepy, but it truly was an emotional experience. He had good relations with Martin, and was able to offer me a very customized guitar for less than list price. My supportive parents fronted the cash, and I paid them off years later...they understood the investment inherent in a Martin, and are both big music fans.

There was a problem, and the dealer phoned me before I took delivery. After the customization, it was discovered that the gold schaller tuners were a different configuration than the stock tuners. They called to get permission to fill and redrill new holes, and gave me a generous rebate. Classy, I thought. The action was spot-on, great intonation, silky finish, perfect bookmatching, and beautiful inlay work. In the 14 years since, everything is still perfect, with the exception of laquer checking which was entirely my fault--I lent the guitar to someone who didn't understand humidity and temperature changes. He was horrified, but it was my fault for not explaining these things to him. Caveat Lendor.

These guitars have a very thin top and light, scalloped bracing. You can't expect them to withstand abuse like a Fender Telecaster. They make terrible footstools, and don't enjoy being dropped. I live in Quebec, and we have nasty humidity and temperature swells...the Martin does respond to those changes, and one must take care to minimize them and allow the guitar to acclimate to the ambient temperature. However, 14 years in this Province have produced no unexpected damage, and the sound in the last 5 years has really started to shine. I can't quantify it, but these things can have a long break-in time. A 10+ year old Martin is just starting to sound terrifyingly good.

I've had the occasion to call Martin to get recommendations for simple things like a strap button install, bridge pin fitting, etc. They're excellent, and understand the trepidation a Martin owner has in entrusting their guitar to someone.

I've played for 21 years. I own a Fender strat plus deluxe, a deluxe Nashville Telecaster, Delta Blues 15" amp, various gear and effects. I have owned lots of other guitars, but have whittled my collection down to my favourites. The Martin is a classic, a keeper. You'll own one your whole life, if it's the right one. Since buying it, I haven't played an acoustic I liked more. And there's something special about handing it over to someone who's never played or seen one up close before...I remember the feeling very well.

2003 Model. I'll assume you all know or have allready read the other reviews and know what its made of, etc. Don't let looks deceive you! It may be somewhat simple in regards to appointments, but it doesn't need them. I'll gladly trade all the glitz and glamour for the sound and playability of this instrument. The features are all on the inside! I do agree that it deserves a bone nut and saddle and ebony bridge and endpins. I feel this axe should come equipped that way, but will just add them myself. I'll add the ebony bridge and endpins first, then later the bone nut and saddle. I don't want to mess with the nut yet, its too new!!!

It sounds incredible. It sounds like a guitar. I could lower the action a bit and probably better accomodate my fingerstyle playing, but thats why I own more than one. This instrument, though it will deliver somewhat with fingerstyle, is definately meant to be played with a pick and will take all you can give it and gives it right back. In my opinion, its worth the extra money to get the HD versus the D. The exciting part is its only gonna get better with time.

Perfect from the factory, if you plan to leave it alone and use it for what it was intened for. Perfect string height at the nut side. Factory specs on the saddle side (12th fret). I would have to lower the saddle if I planned to use it mostly for fingerstyle. But I don't plan to. The neck is incredible. Does seem that they put little extra time into the HD's. There is not a hump or bump anywhere on the neck. Frets and neck perfectly level. So easy to fit you hand around it, like a glove.
Martin's finishes are beautiful, but tender. Definately can't bump it or remove a flake of dirt with your pick or fingernail or your gonna have an indention in the finish. My guitars are bought to play so that doesn't bother me. I think it is just one part of the formula that equals a great guitar. Just keep it clean, cause it will likely show if you don't. After time, it will take on a dull look if you don't keep it clean, then only a thorough cleaning and polishing will revive it. This is true for all Martins, but I don't see that as a problem cause they should all be kept clean.

This guitar is the standard around which many wish they could copy. Time has proven it will hold up. Yes, it will probably lose some of its finish if your aggressive or sweat on it a lot, but what is loses there it will gain back in character. Again, I bought it to use and learned a long time ago that if you use them its gonna show.

I've dealt with Martin a few times, and overall they are fair. Have not always gotten my way, but can't win em' all. Wish it was easier to talk to somebody in tech support area. The email method hasn't yielded good results for me. Seems Martin has stuck to their guns in regards to guitar build/quality, but lack a bit in the 'personable' area. Guess what I'm saying is that such a traditional guitar maker does not have a traditional customer support approach. Bottom line, sometimes I need to talk to somebody.

I own three Martins now. The HD28, an SPD16 for the mohogany flavor, and a Cowboy III as a collector for my little girl. I want two more guitars before I quit. I want the Martin Eric Clapton signature guitar for fingerstyle, and maybe someday a custom built fingerstyle guitar. In my opinion, other than some custom builders, Martin has no competition. It was and still is the standard, traditional guitar company, with the most natural sound and feel available. Gibson is a choice if you don't like Martin. Gibson is also one of the 'originals', therefore they have a sound and feel that some love. But if your into high tech modern technology then get a computer. Before you sink a ton of money into one of those overpriced high tech super adjustable modern era neck guitars, please give Martin a chance. Stick to the basics and the rewards will be great. Don't spend a bundle on one of those high priced production guitars and expect to get what your gonna get out of the Martin. The Martin is in a class of its own in the studio, too. Believe me, we've tried em' all, and you just can't get something out of something that doesn't have it in there to begin with. I tried the Taylor guitar, and luckily and thanks to ebay, I was able to get a fair price out of it and replace it with the HD28. (It didn't take long to figure out that I had paid 2400.00 for a 1200.00 guitar.) They were supposed to be the competition and they are the buzz word these days. They would be okay and the obvious choice for a stage guitar if they weren't overpriced. But you can buy from another manufacturer for less than half the price and get the same results. I realize this may not be true for everyone, but I'd say it is in most cases. Bottom line, if your in doubt, just stick with the Martin. It will come to you in time.

The big three, Ebony, Spruce and Rosewood. Distinctive herringbone trim and you can't ask (or need)more. I've owned it since '93 and it's my only acoustic guitar. Since that time I've had it refretted and added a bone nut and saddle.

In buying a Martin one learns that not all are created equal in Martin land. This is true with all brands even if the Taylor salesman disagrees. The guitar I own was so distinctive I traded a D-41 (which wasn't)for it, on the spot...even! Being a true Martin's Martin, there is no sound like it and to even get close, other makers charge $1,000 or more than the going price for an HD-28.

Martin has produced quality workmanship since the very poor work they produced in the 70's and hardly ever is there a knock on the finished product from a contruction standpoint and mine is no exception. I was surprised that my guitar needed a fret job so soon and perhaps a harder gauge steel could be used to remedy that.
The herringbone trim is perfect and if you've seen other guitars with this feature it's not always a pretty sight. The tuners are like new and have never required any attention. The top is aging gracefully and it has turned from an almost white sheen to an aged slightly golden hue.

Take care of your HD-28 and it will take care of you. This guitar has never been played outdoors and as a result there is no finish checking (superficial cracking)on the guitar at all. I keep a hygrometer in the case and make adjustments as needed through the seasons. Having said all that, the guitar would be in perfect condition if only my wife hadn't knocked over my electric guitar into the Martin. I have a small deep ding in the outer binding, but we're still in love.

I made the mistake of getting a guitar tech to adjust the neck for me and after he did, the guitar wasn't the same tone monster I had come to know and love. I took it to two other techs and Martin payed the bill for me each time, even though the warranty excludes such service. Ultimately when I found the right man for the job, Martin payed for the set-up part of my refret job, as worn out frets are not covered under any warranty.

I've been playing acoustic guitar for 27 years. I've owned a Gibson J-45(circa 1966), an ovation(what was I thinking), an Alvarez-Yairi, and a Martin D-41. This past week I made my first foray into electric land with a PRS McCarty.
If my Martin were lost or stolen it would be like losing something you know you can't replace. In it's own right it will never be made again. Guitars are unique in that regard and it's part of thier mystique. If I were to lose it I would be once again on the long journey to find that one out there that sings my song and is waiting for me somewhere, to come take it home, as it was the day I walked into Ciderville Music. I would mourn the loss of my old friend.

HD-28 is basically THE Martin. Not any fancy stuff. Compared to the
D-28 it was the sound that made me spend more cash.

Oh my god. I've been playing mostly classic nylon guitar for the last couple of years, but i knew i would by a western again. I had it home for a couple of days and put a new set of string on it yesterdad. Well i could nut stop playing and my fingers are totally torn apart, and all i'm waiting for is to get back home and play this thing again.
This is what i been waiting for. Awesome. Clear distinctive treble and loud bas. Got to get used to fingerpick a steel string guitar again.

Action was very pleasing from the factory though i might consider a trip to the luthier after a while.
I've seen that some people has changed the sadle and other stuff. Might consider this when i know the guitar better.
But generaly speaking everything is Okay.

Well owning this guitar for 3 days don't give much clue about it.
It seems, though, extremely well build.

Hm can't answer that. Martin has a limited life time waranty

I've been playing guitar for 25 years now. Nothing pro, but consider my self an advanced amateur. ( Just love it ). Have been playing a lot of classical lately, but have an old affection for country blues.
So investigation a lot of options i've decided this baby was the one that i needed. So i handed out the cash. ( In europe american guitar are about twice as expensive as in the US ).
Do i regret it ?, no not for a moment. This is what i've been looking for.