Are 1970s Martin Guitars good?

Are 1970s Martin Guitars good?

Martin guitars from the ’70s tend to have a lousy reputation, such that their values are probably as low as they’ll ever get. This does not mean that ’70s Martins are to be avoided. They can be some of the best sounding guitars out there and can be bought for reasonable prices.

What do the Martin model numbers mean?

Style numbers indicate the construction materials and appointments of the guitar, and this system allows for several combinations between body shapes and styles. The first letters or numbers indicate the body shape (0, 00, OM, D, etc.) that are followed by a style number (15, 18, 28, 45, etc.), and separated by a dash.

When did Martin start using steel strings?

After its first steel-string model appeared in 1902 (a special order 00-21), Martin began offering steel-string guitars in the 1910s when Hawaiian music was popular, and in 1922 the first production model to be offered with steel strings only – the 2-17 – appeared.

When did Martin make the D-28?

1931
The D-28. The Martin D-28 was first introduced in 1931. Most often prized for its ability to combine rich, booming projection with high quality tone. In 1931, the first batch of D-28’s went completely to the Chicago Musical Instrument Company, but this was an “exclusive” deal that certainly wouldn’t last for long.

What year did Martin start using truss rods?

1985
Martin started using adjustable truss-rods in 1985. Everything they built prior had a non-adjustable truss-rod.

What Martin do I have?

A Martin Guitar will have the model designation and the serial number etched on the neck block. Look in the soundhole toward the neck to see where this is etched.

When did Martin Guitars stop using Brazilian rosewood?

1969
Supplies grew extremely thin in the late 1960s, however, and Martin and others stopped using Brazilian rosewood in 1969, moving over to Indian rosewood, then other varieties. In 1992, Brazilian rosewood was added to the CITES treaty, strictly banning its exportation.

Does a Martin d28 have a truss rod?

There is always a truss rod. His is just non adjustable so no hole is required. Many consider that a superior construction design.

How do I identify a Martin guitar?