Collings D-2H

It's a standard Collings dreadnought as described by others - Rosewood,ebony etc. It would not stand out in a crowd - there is nothing that shines or sparkles. All the money goes on the tone.

Ah - here it does stand out. I meant to buy a guitar to finger-pick; I was not thinking of buying a dreadnought. But this dreadnought does it all - it shimmers when picked with bare fingers, it rings with fingerpicks, it's loud when hit with a pick. Always subtle, it makes it very difficult to put down. I've had it a year, and own or have owned Nationals, Martins and Taylor acoustics. The Nationals are different, so comparison is pointless. The Collings outperforms the Taylors (I have a 514CE and T5) on their home-territory of picking. I had a Martin D28, which I got rid of as soon as I bought this - there was no comparison. I've fitted a Fishman Matrix Infinity pickup and play it through a 60Watt AER amp - and would recommend this mix to anybody. I've ordered some fossil-ivory bridge pins - yet to arrive. I fitted brass pins to the D28 and improved its projection - difficult to see how the sound of this can be improved, but they will at least look pretty.

The guitar was set up by the shop's resident luthier in Leicester in the UK. Set up was perfect - action easy but high enough to give volume without buzz. To my eye, the guitar looks flawless. It's clean inside and out, joins are perfect - no glue run inside or anything else. It's not flash - but it does exude class.

I've seen one on Ebay with the finish on the headstock bubbled and nasty, which is a bit worrying. I've had it a year and looked after it - it seems neither more nor less durable than any other guitar - perhaps less durable than a National... but they are made out of brass.

No comment. Collings seem to want to maintain the outlook of a small organisation.

I've been playing guitar for 30 years. This is the best guitar I have owned, and plenty of people who hear it say it is the best sounding guitar they have ever heard. The shop said (after I had bought it and my money safely in the till) that it is the best dreadnought they have ever had in - and they are a long-standing firm who sell some lovely guitars. I've tried expensive Martins (??4k plus) and Gibsons and they are beautiful instruments, but I think they lack the subtlety or depth of this Collings or they lack the volume and cut - they do one or the other; the Collings does them all. If it were lost or stolen I would replace it with the same model once I had got over the trauma.

D-2H: East Indian rosewood back and sides,
select spruce top,
grained ivoroid binding,
prewar scalloped bracing,
crosscut grained ivoroid and black/white nitrate strip purfling, herringbone border,
crosscut grained ivoroid and wood strip rosette,
tortoise style pickguard.

Other features include a gloss-finished mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard and bridge, rosewood peghead overlay with mother of pearl Collings logo and a traditional diamond and square inlay and nickel Waverly tuners.

Stunning, jaw dropping, and simply remarkable. This instrument resonates with a golden, holy-grail like tone that you rarely hear--even on the best professional sound recordings. That is a bold statement, I know, but when you hear it you will know I am right. It is a fascinating tone.

I have now owned this instrument for seven years. It sounded really good when I bought it, but today it is simply a different guitar. Years of hard strumming and intense picking have "opened up" this guitar to a point I didn't think possible. I can barely put the thing down, it just sounds that good--and I have heard them all, Taylors, old Martins, and a lot of common high-end acoustics. This guitar blows them right out of the water.

The tone itself is hard to describe. It seems to deliver exactly what you want, when you want it. Fingerpicking, flatpicking, jazz and blues, rock and folk, there is just nothing this guitar can't handle. Now that it has aged a little, it is more versatile than ever. There is a range of sounds available here depending on where you strum and how hard.

If you bang on it HARD, it plays really LOUD and just sounds terrific. If you play with subtle finesse it will reward you equally, however.

Just remember that when you play one that is brand new, you are only getting a taste of what this guitar will be when it is broken in. In my opinion, when this guitar was brand new it sounded a little more dry and boxy. When it opens up it just oozes sustain.

Get one, take it home, and bang on it HARD.

Gorgeous in its simplicity. In my seven years of owning this guitar it has recieved only one professional setup, and it plays terrific.

Really terrific binding and appointments.

This guitar will make you a better guitar player. This guitar plays as good as it sounds. Enough said.

I don't gig, but it sounds so terrific that if I did I would rather risk damage and theft than play another guitar. This guitar deserves to be heard. This is a guitar that should be played, not kept in a case. It is as dependable as a guitar can be.

Just be warned, guitar enthusiasts will be asking what it is and where you got it. A lot of guitar enthusiasts think Taylor is the end-all of acoustic guitars and when they hear this they will probably go into shock.

After seven years of ownership, I have never had any problems.

Probably the best sounding steel string acoustic drednaught guitar in the world. The Hanzo Sword of acoustic guitars. Nothing else that I've heard even comes close. After seven years it continues to age like a fine wine.

If I had known how much this guitar breaks in and opens up I would have played it much more and much harder when I first got it to speed up the break-in process. You really need to bang on this guy hard to get the top to open up. You have no idea how good this guitar is until it breaks in.

Don't be affraid to buy one used--in fact, a used one might sound better than a new one.

Note: I like martin marquee medium strings with this guitar, and I use a very heavy pick. This combination is just killer.

Select Spruce top, Indian Rosewood sides, Ebony Fingerboard & Bridge, Mahogany Neck Mother of Pearl inlays, Nickel Waverley Tuners, Tortoiseshell scratchplate. A masterpeice of taste and judgement. Waverleys look a little old fashioned but do the job perferctly. The supplied TKL case was a bit of a let down as the lining was not fitted perfectly and weighs an absolute ton. I have no doubt it is bullet proof but would prefer a Hiscox case as they are a hell of a lot lighter and offer better protection. Sheer weight of construction is no guarantee of protection. Would mark the case at 7 out of 10 but the guitar gets the full 10.

Awesome strummer, great fingerpicker and beautiful balanced tone that makes my Taylor sound like it was barely passable. Makes my 20 year old Ibanez sound like a scratch old biscuit tin...Rich defined bass end with glorious highs and true punch. This is what a real guitar should sound like. Accept no substitute! I mic it up for recording - never found an acoustic pickup that could do the job properly. A touch of reverb and it's 'Acoustic Heaven on Earth'. Great Mahogany nek that plays like a dream.

Guitar - Completely perfect construction and finish. Top quality.
Case - less than perfect with poorly fitted lining at the Headstock Well.

With a guitar like this it would be a crime not to play it live. I am confident that it will hold up well to live use - it feels really solidly made. I have to confess I feel a little sqeamish about doing so as I know what a wounder it will be when I eventually put a ding in it. It's gonna happen sometime so I am mentally building myself up to that sad day. There is no strap button other than at the base and I am reluctant to put another into the heel.

I have experienced very friendly and prompt response to any enquiry from the guys at Collings and their dealer in Manchester. No complaints.

I have played for 28 years and can honestly state that this is the finest Acoustic guitar I have ever played or owned. It made me sound a better player (to me at least!!!) It makes Taylors sound like they lack something (and they are by no means bad guitars). I also tried Santa Cruz, Martins etc and wasn't anything like as impressed.
If stolen or lost I would buy another without question. I tried several other Collings before buying this and was actually looking to buy a OM2H but this Dreadnought just grabbed me by the lapels head-butted me and wouldn't let go. I would recommend it to anyone in a hearbeat. If it's this good now, I can only imagine what it could sound like in a few years time....

2005 Collings D2H full size dreadnought acoustic guitar. I purchased this new from an authorized dealer in Memphis, Tn., "Martin Music". Spruce top with Indian rosewood back and sides. Waverly stainless tuners. NO strap button included or electronics which are both fine with me.

Superb craftsmanship. Way beyond anything I had imagined.

The rosewood is perfect for flatpicking or finger picking both.

What insprired me the most was tone of this guitar. I have owned 3 Taylors, played at least 12 more up to and including presentation/limited models, Borgeois, Larrivee, at least 5 Martins old and new, new Gibsons of which i have tremendous respect and admiration for the vintage models, and a host of other acoustics. Not ONE of these guitars could remotely touch the tone and especially the clarity each note that this Collings did. I bought it in less than 5 minutes. I had planned on playing some more high end Borgeois models, but didn't get that far, no need to.

No setups required which is a shocker to me. Never have I bought a guitar that didn't need a setup to my liking. Action is low, no fret buzz, neck is almost like a soft V Fender Strat neck. I primarily play 59' Les Pauls with a huge neck and the Collings was right down the middle of the road. Bookmatching of top, binding, mother of pearl inlays throughout guitar were flawless and i kept trying to find something wrong with it. I failed in that attempt.

This guitar is a session players dream. It inspires and forces me to put my Les Pauls down and really hear AND feel the harmonics, and I'm A/B-y'ing my Pauls through a Bad Cat Cub IIR 15 watt class A amp and a Soldano modified, respeakered Astroverb. That tone is awesome, but the Collings left me speechless.

Just like Soldano, Bogner, Bad cat, or any other boutique made piece of equipment, they stand behind their products 110%.

I've played for 29 years, but smart enough to fly for a living and not struggle as a musician for a living. I'm fortunate enough to be able to buy the best and this Collings is like nothing I've ever played. Why did I wait so long, I have no idea, but it was a huge...... mistake. I'd replace it in a heartbeat and have it heavily insured as we speak. Taylors are nice, but they have ZERO bottom end, entirely too mid-rangey. Old Martins are fabulous but you are looking at potential neck resets, etc.. and too much time at the luthier.

Last thing I want to do is try and sell this guitar. It does that for itself. If you play classic rock, fingerpick, bluesgrass, whatever, this model can and does do it all. Thanks so much Bill Collings, I'm glad I finally joined the crowd. I have bought my LAST acoustic guitar, no more chasing tone for me.

I never give 10's, but other than Bo Derek, this guitar's tone is hard not to give it a 10.

This is a new 2005 Collings D2H made in Austin Texas with a select spruce top, east indian rosewood back and sides, mahogony neck, and it absolutely rocks. It's extremely versitale and ready to do whatever I want it too. I really like the simple features. It's a very smooth ebony neck with beautiful mother of pearl inlay. I like the old fashion waverly tuners. The whole package is perfect.

The Sound is percise, controled, extremely versatile, and just absolutely wonderful. It makes other guitars I play sound like tin cans.

The action rocks. It's like having an electric set up on an acoustic guitar. When I want to do fast rifs or scales it's there. I can easily bend the strings and create instant vibrato and sustain. A big reason I bought the Collings is because of the perfect fit and finish. I like the fact of having a limited production guitar that has a higher standard of quality than that of a bigger mass produced brand name. You can tell that every detail of it was created with precision.

Ya, it does feel solid in every way. I think it will be a heir lunb because it's a guitar I can pass on to my children and generations to come!

Awesome customer service. In the beginning I had a few questions and I called Collings directly and they spent lots of time with me. They really assured me that they wanted COMPLETE customer satisfaction and it was just a wonderful experience. When you buy a $3,000 guitar it is an investment and it really feels good to be treated with great value, support, and encouragement.

I have been playing guitar for 14 years now and I wonder why I waited so long to take it too the next level. This guitar has opened me up to new levels of creativity and ability. Everything just works so well on it that it inspires you to new heights. In my opinion Collings blows away any Martin or Taylor guitar you could show me. It's really the detail they put into them and the quality that sets them apart from any mass producer out there. All in all it is a fantastic value in every way, an investment for the future and an investment in my musical tallent!

This was made in Jan. 1995 in Austin Texas. Sitka Spruce top, Indian Rosewood sides and back. 1 3/4" nut and is a Lefty, It comes with an airtight case.

I play Gospel rock,country, folk and this fits any and all bills, nothing this guitar can't do, I strum it and booms, it sustains so long that when I get it out of the case its still humming!! This guitar scares me it is so responsive, I don't deserve it, it makes me sound good. I'm blessed!

Perfect, not showy just everything in its place and no glue anywhere.
The only flaws are user errors.

This guitar is going on 10 years old and it has aged well, I have no doubt it will continue on. Very dependable, if I were to play live or record this is the one I'd use.

I emailed them with a user problem and they guarantee their products, very friendly and professional.

I've been playing 3 or 4 years. I own a restrung Yamaha FG 110 and a factory lefty Yamaha FG-335II. If this D2H was ever stolen or lost I'd be sad for sure, each Collings guitar is one of a kind so to speak. I would love to have 2 more Lefties. Like the OM or the Sunburst C10.

Rosewood, nickel waverlies, simple and elegant herringbone and light inlay. Perfectly understated.

Ridiculously good sounding acoustic guitar. I have two Taylor's that I love, 814c and 810, but the D2H is a monster. I used to own a D28 as well and this guitar is light years ahead of that Martin, save for some of the really old, juicy ones. Never played a guitar with a more balanced, sustained tone than this.

Clean, simple, and understated. Perfect.

Like my Taylors, this guitar can take a beating. This guitar screams to be played, loudly, softly or whatever else in between. I can't believe the sound will only get better with wear.

Nothing yet.

Been playing for 15 years and have owned,like many guitar lovers, a large number of guitars. The D2H, in addition to my Taylor 810, will be my stage guitars for life. If you play acoustic guitar and can afford this guitar, you must buy it. There are other great insstruments out there to be sure, but this axe is a true gem.

Their version of a Martin D-28H. Improvements: compensated bone saddle (plays in tune all over the neck), bolt-on neck (to make resets easy), Waverly tuners (high grade vintage-style tuners).
Indian rosewood and sitka; beautifully matched woods. The rosewood is not showy, but has nice even grain pattern.

Beautiful, clear, loud, balanced tone. A stunning instrument for flat or fingerpicking.

Absolutely perfect. The only flaws on it, I put there. They are obviously perfectionists.

This guitar is as solid as a rock.

N/A

After 39 years of playing various styles of music professionally and for fun, I believe that I have never owned a finer guitar. I can only imagine what a higher-end Collings must be like. I also own a 1965 Gibson Dove, a 1946 Gibson L-7, a 1947 Epiphone Blackstone, a 1980 Guild Artist Award, several good solid bodied guitars, and a Rigel mandolin. I honestly want to buy every Collings I see--but this one will do. If you own a mediocre flattop, or even a pretty good onw, try a Collings.

I bought my D2H new from the Acoustic Centre in Wapping, London in June 2000 so I guess it was made a little earlier than this.

The specification is as described in other reviews. It doesn't really have any features as it is an acoustic! However everything on it is of the highest quality from the wood to the machine heads.

I have a lot of guitars and I hadn't played it much until fairly recently. I play mainly electric but I'm using it as my main practice guitar at the moment because it strengthens my fingers and slows me down a bit so I play with a bit more taste. I've noticed the sound is improving the more I play it so I am reluctant to put it back in it's case.

Every time I pick it up, the first few notes surprise me with the richness of the tone. It has an excellent balance across the whole register and a really clear ringing tone with a little bit of bite when you dig in a bit.

It is hard to conceive how anyone could make a guitar with a more perfect finish than this. I haven't altered anything yet but I suspect I could lower the action without any problems if I wanted to. It plays fine as it is however.

It is so well made that it would cope with any amount of reasonable wear and tear.

No problems yet so I can't comment

I've been playing 30 years and have a lot of guitars - mainly 50's and early 60's vintage.

This is one of the few guitars I've bought new and I think could be a classic in 30 years time.

I tried every top-end guitar in the shop before this one. The guy behind the counter was playing it and it wasn't easy getting it off him.

It is a 2003 model. It is a standard D2H with the exception of the 1 3/4" nut width option. It is a classic looking Rosewood dreadnaught. The only feature I wish were standard is an ebony strap button on the heel. I ordeded my own from Stew-Mac and will install re: Collings specs.

Can I rate it an 11? I play bluegrass and old-time flatpicking/rythym. What an awesome guitar. I have wanted a D2H for a long time as it is the ultimate in Bluegrass. I have roamed the country floating in and out of every music store and can honestly say the Collings D2H is the finest sounding, most balanced, and most consistent bluegrass guitar I've ever run across.

Perfect. Not a single flaw. I have gone over it with a fine tooth comb, even on the inside. I am an amateur luthier and like to see how instruments are constructed. There is nary a visible drop of glue anywhwere on the inside. Unbelievably perfect.

Their impeccable repuation speaks for itself

Have never dealt with Collings. Steve at Acoustic Music Works in Pittsburgh where I bought it is very helpful. I would trust him and would trust Collings for whatever I needed.

I've been playing nearly 30 years. I currently own 8 other acoustics, some high end. In my mind, there is simply no other bluegrass guitar. The best....what else can be said?

2001 model, I believe. Spruce top, Indian rosewood sides, herringbone plain old dreadnaught. Tons of excellence in the few features it has.

Most balance from among Martin, Taylor, Santa Cruz, Tacoma, Guild, Bourgeois. The harmonics in the sustain were the first thing to catch my ear. It's amazing what one can hear and for how long. And loud, but not as harsh as a Martin. BTW, it's just starting to open up. Traded it for a Taylor 510.

No flaws.

Looks very well-built.

Very helpful in the registration process.

Been playing for 33 yrs. If lost or stolen, would procure another. Would really like to obtain an OM-2H also. For guitars in this range (>$2000) these have the most bang for the buck. Case is flawless also (Geib-style?)

Bought it used.
It's a standard Collings D2H.
Read other reviews for details.
I had to buy one after seeing Ricky Skaggs guitar player Cody Kilby playing a Collings at a bluegrass festival. Wow he made it sing.

I brought this guitar to get snap locks installed by my local luthier and I urged him to give it a strum. He strummed it once and his jaw dropped and asked how old it was. With medium strings this guitar is as loud as dreadnaughts get. Very complex tone. It vibrates my brain ! Nothing compares except maybe a pre-war Martin D28.

Pretty high set up compared to what I like and could come down with the medium strings on it and it would still be OK for agressive bluegrass strumming. I bought it used so I am just presuming that's how it came from the factory. Truss rod adjusted perfectly.

Fit finish hardware craftsmanship all 100 percent top notch.
The best fit and finish I've seen.
Very durable and solid feeling without being over weight.

Factory support has been great, they answer my stupid questions very quickly. No repair issues whatsoever.

I've been playing for about 10 years, would definitely buy another collings and am actually negotiating for another used OM size Collings to replace my Taylor Grand Auditorium 25th anniversary.
I also own a Simon and Patrick pro rosewood.

2003 Collings D2H. Indian rosewood back & sides, Sitka spruce top, Mahogany neck (of course), ebony bridge & fingerboard. Wood herringbone binding and wood soundhole rosette. Waverly tuners. 1-3/4" bone nut. Came with a very high-quality hardshell case. I say nine because I suppose it could have come with a pre-installed Trance Audio Amulet pickup or something...

I play blues, rock&roll, country, and bluegrass mainly, and do a lot of heavy strumming and picking. I tend to hit the strings pretty hard. I do also play a little jazz, but don't really consider this the guitar for it.

I decided early this year to invest $2-4K in a fine-quality dreadnaught. I looked for many months and tried out new and vintage Martins, Santa Cruz, Larrivee, Taylor, Beneteau, Thompson, Huss & Dalton, Gibson, Goodall, Breedlove, and any other guitar I could find at fancy shops and guitar shows.

I picked the Collings D2H over all the rest, including vintage Martin 'Brazilian' (eyes roll) D-28s. It's balanced like no other I found, except perhaps the Santa Cruz Tony Rice, but that guitar sounded kind of flat and lifeless. The D2H has warm and full bass, but is not too boomy. Highs are clear and bright enough for lead work. Rich, sweet harmonics. Even string balance. High-register chords maintain clarity. Sustain is very consistent, long, and smooth. To top it all off, it's really, really loud. Even people with no guitar knowledge often look a little shocked when they hear it and remark how good it sounds!

If you are looking for a primarily LEAD guitar for country or bluegrass, go for a mahogany-bodied dread instead. Also, if you're looking for "growly", folky character, this isn't your guitar. But if you want sweet and clear with the richness of rosewood for strumming or picking or otherwise, make sure you try this one out. If I had another $4K to drop, I'd get a vintage D-16 as well, but probably wouldn't use it a lot...

The guitar is totally flawless. I've heard Collings uses computerized lathes and lasers to make their guitars, and I believe it. The bridge pins are ebony and fit snugly with minimal pressure. Changing strings is a pleasure! It was set up with fairly high action, but I think that suits my hard playing style, so it was perfect for me. The finish is very rich and glossy, but somehow feels light. Overall the guitar is pretty light.

Well, I've only owned it for three months now, but if the quality of workmanship is any indication, I think it'll outlive me by a hundred years.

Haven't yet, but Gryphon has a good reputation.

I'm really happy with my D2H. Since buying it I find myself inspired to strum more, pick more, sing more, practice more, perform more, write more, learn more... If you're looking for a rosewood dread and can afford it, I don't think you can go wrong with a Collings D2H!

Collings D2H made in Austin, Texas in October of 2001. It has a solid premium-grade sitka spruce top with a seamless tight grain and back and sides made of solid AAA Indian Rosewood. It is a traditional dreadnought guitar without any electronics or a cutout. The neck is African Mahogony that matches well in color with the Rosewood. The instrument has a clean gloss finish all over including the neck. The neck is relatively thick and the width can vary depending on what you want 1 11/16 or 1 3/4. The tuners are open vintage style Waverlys with nickle bean buttons. The guitar came in a TKL made Collings case with green crushed velvet interior. Modeled after the early Martins, the guitar is relatively plain looking but the workmanship and attention to detail is incredible.

The sound of the guitar is what made me trade in my 25th Anniversary Taylor Grand Auditorium and Taylor 810. I vary from light to heavy strumming playing mostly contemporary Christian music but also some modern pop. This guitar is incredibly versatile in terms of sound. Finger stylist will love the crisp and well defined tones. This is by far the loudest and fullest guitar that I've ever heard in my life and at no point does the guitar lose any tonal quality from projection. The tone can best be described by having both the "Bassy Punch" of a vintage Martin D28 and the Midrange and Treble of a Maple Taylor. The sustain is awesome and harmonics are even more impressive. The sound is absolutely incredible.

It was set up perfectly right out of the box. The action is set a little higher than what I am normally use to, but still relatively easy to play. Everything about the fit and finish is perfect except the neck. I like the thin, satin finished Taylor necks that play almost like an electric. The thicker glossed Collings takes a bit of getting use to and is not as quick as most Taylors. Aside from that, everything is absolutely flawless.

I have not owned the guitar long enough to really say, but based on the craftsmanship, I would say that the guitar should stand the test of time. The tuners are open vintage style Waverlys that should last and if not, are easy to replace. The guitar only came with a rear strap button, but I had one professionally installed on the neck. It seems like a very versatile and durable guitar and the TKL case should protect it well.

I have not yet contacted the luthiers down in Austin, Texas. From what I've heard, their customer support is awesome. Every Collings has a lifetime warranty for the original owner. There is no fancy warranty card to send in, just the original receipt.

If this guitar were stolen, I would definitely replace it with another D2H. I might also consider getting a Goodall. But basically, you can't beat the tone of a Collings. I have owned several Taylors and Martins, and played hundreds of others including customs such as Santa Cruz, Froggy Bottom and Bourgeois and the only one that could compare to the tone of a Collings D2H was a Goodall rosewood Dreadnought. I love the simple design and clean lines. The only other thing I could have hoped for would be a Adirondack Spruce soundboard.

2001 Collings D-2H all the standards

The guitar barks each note rings clear with sustain for days. I mostly play bluegrass with leanings towards blues/jazz. The guitar has amazing balance not to bright and not to dark. I can only imagine what it will sound like when the top opens up.

The guitar was setup nicely right out of the box but I had the action lowered just a hair to match my trusted Martin. The finish is flawless, you can actually see dips in the grain. Everything about the guitar is perfect there are no glue spots or spaces at the heel or fretboard.

All I can assume is that a guitar that is built with an eye for detail and excellant materials will stand the test of time.

no interaction as of yet

After doing quite an extended and extensive (1 year) search which included every high end maker minus Olson's (to rich for my blood) Collings fit the bill. Ive been playing for over 15yrs and the guitar is replacing a road hardned 1962 Martin D-28. The Collings actully sounds very similar to the Martin and with age will surpass.

My D2H was made in October 1997 and has the serial number 3378. I bought it in November 1999.
It has herringbone edging, Bright fret inlays(one of which is so bright its like neon sometimes) and waverley's. All the usual.
I'm not sure if the top is a special grade of wood, I'll have to phone to find out. If it is standard then all I can say is WOW, it's really beautiful.

What can I say other than Awesome! When I first heard this Collings I fell in love with it instantly, a cliche, but true none the less.
When I play this guitar my soul fly's. Truly it's an emotional experience that means I play for a LOT longer than I ever intend to.
In making my choice, I played Martins, Taylors, Santa Cruz, Lowdens, at all prices, and NONE sounded as good as my D2H. Collings guitars are as good as people say. I can't imagine just how much better this guitar will sound as it gets more mature.

The finish to this guitar is 2nd to none. The top is beautifully bookmatched and has a 'honey' colour that surpasses many other Collings that I've seen. I guess I'm lucky with this one. The top has superb 'Silking' too, it's a really good looking top. The rosewood is brilliant it looks soooo deep, sort of like 'dark fruit cake' in colour.
The action is excellent. I find the neck fast, with no buzzing frets even when played hard.

I have no doubt that my D2H would withstand being played Live. It's so nice I wouldn't want to treat it hard. I play it everyday for maybe 1-2 hours and it doesnt complain :):):)

I havent had any problems and judging by the build, I don't expect any

I have been playing since I was 8 years old and now I'm 37. This guitar is truly my 'Holy Grail'. Without any shadow of doubt I would replace my D2H if... I don't want to tempt fate!
I did all the music shops...and came home disappointed. I read some reviews on this website and then saw an advert in the back of Guitarist magazine for a Collings D2H...et voila! I was a Collings owner. All the things people say about Collings are true. What else can I say...Collings are the greatest. End of story. Do yourself a favour...get one!

Standard D2H model. Spruce top. Indian rosewood back and sides.

Very nice and subtle. Keeps growing on you. Strongest in the mids, but goes deep and high enough. Great harmonics and the notes don't smear when played hard.

Fit, finish, setup where all excellent. Also beautiful workmanship. One marker, abalone, on the fretboard is dark.

Just got it 3 months ago so only time will tell.

This is what sold me. I live in San Antonio. The factory is 70 miles away and they give tours. My guitar has a slightly weird history. Dealer said it was used and not sure of it's history. I called the factory and they gave me it's history. They also gave me a lifetime warranty! Met everybody at the factory including Mr. Collings. You gotta make the trip if you can!

Playing on and off for 31 years. My other acoustic is a 1986 Taylor 615. I played a bunch of others:Santa Cruz, Larivee, Martins etc, but this one really outdoes the others with its subtle tones and harmonics. The Taylor is easier to play, but the Collings really talks to you. I'll buy another Collings when I can afford it. You get your moneys worth.

Dreadnaught. Indian Rosewood sides and back. Spruce top. Herringbone inlay. Ivoroid body binding. Nickel Waverly tuning machines. Ebony bridge and fretboard. 1 11/16 nut. Every feature you would desire in a traditional dreadnaught guitar...

Blindfold yourself in a room with 10 what-you-believe-to-be "great" dreadnaughts. Have someone strum an E chord on each one. My money says you'll pick the Collings 10 out of 10 times. I did. Play a few more chords and some simple scales and your ears will tell you what to buy. The sustain, the articulation of the notes, and the depth and clarity of the sound stunned me...

There is absolutely no other guitar maker alive (right now anyway) who makes a guitar with more attention-to-detail for under 5000 dollars.

It is built unbelievably well. I have owned over 30 guitars in the last ten years and this on is, by far, the best built.

The folks at the factory in Austin seemed true blue down-to-earth honest straight-forward people who loved what they do. Collings guitars have a lifetime warranty to the original owner.

I have bought and sold guitars all of my adult life. This guitar will never leave my possession. Forty years from now when I'm 75 I will still own this guitar and it will only sound sweeter.

What guitars came in second and third in my "best traditional dreadnaught of the best at any price" evaluation?

1. Collings D-2H
2. Goodall "Traditional"
3. Santa Cruz "Tony Rice"

Interestingly, both the Goodall and the Santa Cruz were more expensive.

Purchased my 1995 guitar from a movie composer in Vencie, Ca. He bought it from Westwood Music (terrific shop!) with highlander p.u. Stock guitar otherwise. Came with nice, plush, hard case

I am a flatpicker and this guitar brings me to tears. What a wondrous sound. Can't hear any trade-offs between bass and treble. Sustains like a M----- F-----! Read the other reviews in here as I concur with every accolade they've offered. TRANSCENDANT SOUND. End of Story.

Purchased used so can't comment of factoryset-up. Everythings looks top-flight to me, though

Guitar has found its voice after these few years and I only anticipate more maturation.

no dealings with the boys in Texas thus far

This D2H has a quartersawn aaa-grade Brazilian Rosewood Back and Sides. Top is of Adirondack Spruce that has thighter grain towards the center.Neck is straight grain Mahogany with a low profile Vee
and of course joins the body at 14th frets.
Unlike other Collings this one has a graphite reenforcemnt bars that
weigh just about the same as metal ones, so that the instrument will not lose "mass" for sustain.
The tuneres are of Gold Waverly Vintage with "Collings" logo stamped.

In the first year it tended to sound bit too bright, which I suspected attributable to the graphite bars.
It is in its 4th years and is producing wonderful vintage sound across the all 6 strings. Unlike Martin D28 this Collings D2H of
Brazillian+Adirondack has better trreble sound. Bass is equal to
D28 and tends to be a little harsh and hard, but crisp.
Defenitely a Bluegrass Buitar and Charlie Waller may want to onw this.

Collings has a little higher fret wires, say by 10/1000th.
This guitar has a little lower fret than the Collings standard to be more finger-friendly.
Due to dry climate in southern California the guitar started to
buz (top might have sanken a bit) but with a higher saddle, which
Collings sent to me the guitar plays perfect with the maximum ease.
The finish of the gyuitar is the most elaborated area by Collings
and I can not think of any other word to describe it than "perfect".

It is yet premature to rate this guyitar's durability but thanks to bolt on joint the neck remains solidly intact and you feel rigidity when you play it. The sound tells for it self.
I can envisize how it looks when this one becomes 20 years old;
some wear on the finger board and frets and nice tan on its top.
A little hairline crack on the side is the possibility, that is sort of a fate of Brazilian Rose wood.

The replacement saddle was provide to my satisfaction.
It comes with the life time waranty, which very much depends upon
Mr. Bill Collings way of driving (his Porche).
People are always nice and busy...

I have Martin D28 (three), D18, D76, OOO-18, JM21 and several Collings.
I bought this Collings D2H Bz-Ad in June 1996 after series of comparison with New Martins including its Vintage Series, Taylor
Santa Cruz ... but none of them surpassed Collings.
The best and most carefully hand-made guitar today.

Built in 9/98 in Austin, TX Drednaught with solid Sitka top,I have installed Fishman Matrix II(active),solid rosewood sides and back,nickel Waverly tuners, 1 11/16" neck, very basic looking at first glance, but upon close inspection a very detailed, beautiful, handmade instrument

I bought this guitar because I wanted something that would crossover the many different styles I like to play,blues bluegrass,fingerstyle. I've owned Martins but have found them to be very limited in that regard, unless of course you run into "the one" My only regret is that the Collings 1 11/16 neck is just a little narrow for fingerstyle playing but certainly makes up for it in the flatpicking department! I am constantly amazed at it's balanced tone and resonance. I probably have spent more time trying to find its limitations, having constantly adjusted the action (3 trips to where I bought it in 1 week!Collings has a special wrench for truss rod adjustments that only their dealers have, and they were saying "see ya tomorrow, Bill!") and messing with the saddle height to gain optimum playability for me. I did discover a little buzzing in a couple of places when I hit it hard,but that probably is more me than anything to do with the guitar. At any rate, a small price to pay for the incredible tone!

As I've mentioned in the sound catagory, I may be the culprit in search of the nirvana playability. There was no pickup from the factory. The top of this instrument is just incredible,with the entire top highly figured.

I'm still a little nervous about taking "my baby" outside of the house,usually jamming with friends here, but when I want to make a strong impression with my acoustic or plugged in, the Collings will always be my choice! For those who are familiar with Collings, I consistently get the "oooohs and ahhhs" from other players,for those who aren't I like the idea that they are hearing pure unadulterated tonal excellence in this instrument, without all of the abalone and stuff that makes other guitars that cost this much seem cheap sounding.

Haven't had to deal with Collings yet, did not receive and warranty cards or documentation with this instrument. My dealer, The Fifth String in Sacramento, CA, has been great about indulging me and my adjustments. On this end, the service has been exemplary!

An outstanding acoustic guitar. I hope that I am able to purchase one of the OOO or OM Collings guitars in the future. I would have to concur with others that this guitar is "the Holy Grail"

East Indian Rosewood Back and Sides Sitka Spruce Top Ebony Fret Board Ebony Bridge Wavery Open Gear Tuners HD-28 Style Apointments--"Herringbone"

First of all, this guitar is a few hours old. I picked it up this afternoon. I was planning on buying the D-1 but this guitar sold me last second. This is the finest sounding acoustic guitar I have ever played. It is no where "opened up." I'd say it has a long way to go before it sounds the way it should. This is the nature of all fine acoustic guitars. I will answer questions about this guitar and will post a more complete review after the guitar is six months of age or it begins to open up. I will post another review after it is a year old. This is without a doubt a superior instrument to Taylors and Martins. I also played a Santa Cruz and liked the Collings better in every way. I have rated this guitar an 8 because it has not yet reached its full potential. However, like i said, this is the finest acoustic i have ever seen or played.

This guitar is perfect. Action, Fit and Finish are what a guitar of this caliber should be. Flawless. This is a fantastic guitar. The herringbone binding is fabulous looking, and all the apointments have an incredible amount of detail. This guitar's appeal is in its sound and understated appearance.

This is as well made a guitar as I have ever seen. Many consider it to be of superior construction to a pre-wwII martin. I don't know very much about high-end vintage guitars, but i can't imagine what a more well made guitar would look or sound like.

I have had no experience with the company.

I've been playing for 9 years. I play bluegrass, jazz, rock, folk and mostly flatpick. This guitar is superior to any instrument I have played. I can hardly imagine what this guitar is going to sound like when the top opens up. This is the first high-end acoustic that I have purchased. If it were stolen i would not replace it. I would hunt down the thief, beat him with his own shoes and reclaim my guitar. Of course, if that were not possible, i guess i would replace it.

I purchased this Collings D2H January 2000. It looks like a Martin DH28, except that the appointments and eye for detail really stand out as being a notch above Martin made guitars. The top is sitka spruce and has a very tight, handomse grain. The sides and back are select Indian rosewood with beautifully formed grain. A herringbone trim is on the top, with ivoroid binding. The pick guard is their "peporoni" tortoise. The neck is stained in a very dark cherry look and is made of solid select mahagony. The tuners are varely tuners. The neck is very, veryt playable and is comfortable. It comes with a Geib style case and reminds one of a plush lined coffin. I am a left handed player, and it is rare that lefties are treated to the opportunity to own superior, top of the line instruments, so purchasing a left handed Collings was an exceptional expereince.

What a sound. I have tinkered with many Taylor and Martin style guitars over the years and never found one that completely satisfied my ear. Taylor's were easy to play, and were refreshingly bright compared to Martin's. Taylor's, however, appeared to always lack the "full" sound and were on the tinny side of sound. Martin's, on the oterhand, always have the dark sound, that lacking in the Taylor. However, Martin's always appeared to have a muddy midrange and weak high end. The Collings D2H incororates all the positves sounds associated with the Martin's and Taylor's. In other words, the are a big, incredibly balanced, with a very dark low end, a big mid range, and unbelielable high end sustain. When I first hit full E chord on the Collings, I literally jumped back with amazement. I was so stratled at the big, full sound that I almost dropped the guitar. I have played guitar for over 25 years, and have played professionally on and off during this period of time. While I have progressed into more of a fingerstyle played, I was amazed that the dreadnaught could be used both as a flat picking and finger picking instrument. This D2H was also ordered with a 1 3/4 inch neck which makes it very comfortable to play either way. This guitar, in short, is one incredible instrument. The first evening I sat down to play the D2H, I was experimenting with some alternate tunigs (DADGAD). I experienced something that I have have never experienced before in playing an acoustic guitar. After landing on a couple of notes, and holding the notes with a finger vibrato, I heard a sound similar to feedback inn an electric guitar. In other words, the sustain was so strong that it literally sounded as if the guitar was feeding back, and I was not even plugged into an amp!!!!!! Unbelieveable!!!!!!

The finsish of the instrument was perfect, as is with most $3,000 + instruments. I easily adjusted the neck action in lowering the bridge to accomodate a fingerstytle action. The set up from the factory is perfect for flatpicking.

I only am a couch potato type of player now, so I do not know whether this guitar would withstand live playing, bit I would not see why it would not. It has a large enough sound to be used without a pickup.

The only flaw with the guitar was that the inside sticker was missing when it was delivered to the dealer. I called Collings' Customer Service Dept. and was treated very warmly over the phone by their Customer Service Department. The only negative was that I was put on hold initially for about 5 minutes. Collings is a small company, does not want to become the no. 1 guitar builder, and is more interested in continuing to make the best high end guitars. There are less than 50 people employed at Collings, all with specailized roles, as you would see in a smaller sized company.

I have benn playing uitar for over 25 years. This is the finest left handed acoustic I have evr seen, heard or played. It is an honor to be able to own one of these jewels. I am so impressed with their instrument, that I have recenlty prdered a 2nd Collings, an OM model. I cannot really compare it to any acoustic guitar I have seen , as they are leaps above any Tayor or Martin I have owned, seen or played. If lost or stolen, I would not think twice about ordering another one.

Purchased new in 1999 albeit a tad shopwarn. This is a '98 dreadnought, rosewood back and sides, spruce top, herringbone border, scalloped bracing, mahagony neck, ebony fingerboard/bridge and Waverly tuners. Hard shell case included (no key came with the case). Very nice features all around except for the scratches on the pickguard and a couple of dings in headstock. Made in Texas.

I play a variety of musical styles from jazz standards to country and was in the market for a pure, unadulterated deradnought with a full sound. Whether fingerstyle or strumming, I was in search of a guitar that could get me there without the need for amplification. This Collings fits the bill. Its loud enough to accompany a piano and solo, its hard to even hear the phone ring!

The action on this guitar is perfect! My fingers practically slide across the fretboard, although the medium-guage strings take some getting used to. The hammer-on's and pull-off's are tough compared to the lights which I am used to, but that's my problem. There is a noticable buzz on the open D and E which may require a set-up or at least re-stringing. Also, I tend to bend the 2nd string alot when I play (just a habit) and have to tune the B on this guitar more often. Other than that, I'm a happy girl! Aside from the flaws mentioned above, this baby is a dream.

I play on the livingroom couch. That's it! This guitar doesn't leave the house. On the road I would take my 20-year old Ovation Custom Legend. I suspect the Collings could withstand as much as any other dread in its class, but why risk it? I bought this one for pure pleasure. Everything appears to be solid and dependable.

I called Collings in Austin, Texas twice (long distance) about my guitar (the buzzing strings and the year it was made). The first time they took my name and number and said they would call me back "in a little bit" but never did. My subsequent call was a bit more successful. They told me the buzzing in the open strings should be taken back to the dealer for checking. OK. Collings assured me my guitar was made in 1998 and was shipped to the dealer on 7/19/98. The date on the label inside the guitar reads "7/28" instead of 7/98. No e-mail address, no warranty info or registration card, no use and care guide, no company info included at all with the purchase. As I am from Brooklyn and was raised not to trust anyone, I found this a bit curious. But then again, they are Texans!

I've been playing for 30 years and so far this is the nicest guitar I have played to date! I grew up on Gibsons and Guilds, have had hit-or-miss experiences with Martins, became disenchanted with Ovation, soured by Larivee and almost gave up altogether. I'm happy to be playing daily again and my Collings D-2H can accept full responsibility for that! It somehow plays me and its such a pleasure everytime I pick it up.

D-2H: East Indian rosewood back and sides, select spruce top, grained ivoroid binding, prewar scalloped bracing, crosscut grained ivoroid and black/white nitrate strip purfling, herringbone border, crosscut grained ivoroid and wood strip rosette, tortoise style pickguard.
Gloss-finished mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard and bridge, rosewood peghead overlay with mother of pearl Collings logo and a traditional diamond and square inlay and nickel Waverly tuners. Includes geib style hard shell case with a green velvet interior.
Looks very similar to a Martin HD-28VR, without the aged toner look.

I like to play unplugged type acoustic pop/rock, and this is the only guitar I found which delivers the brightness of a Taylor with the rich full sound of a Martin.
I originally bought a new Martin HD-28VR, which is a vintage re-issue of a 1930s Martin. It sounded great, but it just didn't give me the high end brightness I was looking for.
The Collings sounds way better than any Martin I have played. Don't get me wrong, I still have the utmost respect for Martins.
I've played several Collings and they really are very consistent from one guitar to the next. Every one is a gem.

I'm still new to guitars, but the setup feels good. The finish is flawless.

Feels like it was built to last. Will only get better with age.

Haven't dealt with Collings yet.

I've only been playing for around 3 months. My first guitar was a $500 Larrivee, which I still LOVE to play!
I originally went out to buy a Martin HD-28VR. And although this was much more expensive as Collings only give a 10% discount as oppsed to a 30% discount from a Martin dealer, I feel it was weel worth the extra cash.
I met another customer who had changed from the HD-28VR to the Collings also.
I keep hearing that the Collings is the Holy Grail of acoustic guitars, and I have to agree!