Since the 14-fret iteration was unveiled in 1934, the Martin D-28 has set the standard by which all acoustic guitars are judged. With massive bass response and articulate high end detail, it's easy to understand why the D-28 has been the choice of guitarists across a wide array of genres and generations of players. The D-28 is the quintessential workhorse. From Hank Sr. and Johnny Cash to Neil Young, The Beatles, and Jimmy Page, every guitarist sounds right on a D-28.
This D-28 left Nazareth, Pennsylvania in 2001, and over the years it has developed the rich, played-in sound from love from old Martins. This D-28 was recently sent to Colorado luthier Beau Hannam, who got the playability dialed. While in his care, Beau also re-glued the bridge. Because of that, the action is nice and low (with Medium Gauge strings, to boot), and the guitar is 100% stable with the intonation right where it needs to be. This hard-working D-28 has a lot to offer!
In 2001, the D-28 was built with a 1-11/16" nut width, and the Low Oval neck profile is not as chunky as the stouter vintage-inspired neck profiles Martin offers today. Because of that, this D-28 has a fast, modern feel. This D-28 is approachable, and the ease of playability makes it produce a powerful robust sound without needing to force the issue. With more delicate playing, the sound remains articulate and clear with dreadnought character that shines in every setting.
This 2001 D-28 shows some wear and tear, particularly around the pickguard/playing area. The finish is checked all around the body, and there are minor bumps and bruises in various spots as well as some notable dings near the strap button/neck heel. We've done our best to capture the worst of it in the photo set. The back of the neck shows some vibey wear at the first position, and the frets have some minor wear but every note rings clear and true with no buzzes or issues. The previous owner installed an active Fishman under-saddle pickup, so this Martin dreadnought is ready for the stage or the studio. It includes a Martin-branded TKL hardshell case—what Martin calls the C545 dreadnought case, a $400-500 value.