Martin HD28 vs. HD35 | Dreadnought Battle for the Ages 

I purchased a D 35 (built in 1967) in 1968 at the Melody Music Store in North Park, Dallas, TX. It’s been around the world, refretted in Nazareth in 1972, which didn’t last, refretted by Steve Neal at the Blue Guitar in San Diego, 3 years later and still good. The pick guard has been replaced, the bridge reglued, a Tusk saddle installed, intonation checked and it plays and sounds great. It’s been a great companion through thick & thin, entertained many folks (with a little help from me) around the camp fire on multi day white water rafting trips. I’m 77 now and this D 35 is 57 years old and it will surely be going strong when I’m dead and gone. My thanks to the craftsmanship at the Martin Company for this fine instrument.

If you’re playing either you’re winning.

So this was the best comparison that I have ever seen of the HD-28 and the D-35. It was so so good to hear them played in succession as you did so well. Thank you for the thorough specs too. I never quite understood the complete story about the brace structure. Thank you for your thoroughness I love the sound of both guitars and I see the problem of combining picking style with chordal technique. I have visited the Martin Guitar factory twice with my guitar students. We live in the NW burbs of Philly and it only took us an hour school bus drive to get there. 😯 Absolutely fascinating tour of a historic factory displaying the beauty of Americana! So I do own one of these babies. I bought the D-35 back in 2004. It is my child now for 18 years. I just love the fullness of tone projection that it delivers. Keep the great videos coming.

After watching this comparison (and several others) I opted for the HD-35. No regrets. Rich, full sound, but still articulates well enough for how I play--fingerstyle, occasionally a thumb pick, very occasionally finger picks as well, but mostly bare fingers. Thin bracing probably contributes to the beginning of a "belly" after just two years. Gorgeous tone.

I’m with you for the HD-28 for all three of the reasons. To those I’d add that the HD-28 can deliver a robust strumming sound, while the HD-35, with its slimmer braces, can sound a little overloaded when strummed. I’m picking up an HD-28E this afternoon.

That is wild. I heard what you heard on the articulation of THESE 2 guitars. However, I did this same test in Savannah on 2 different HD-28/HD-35s and this 35 was much more specific /articulate than the 28, which was washy, like i was hearing it through an imaginary flanger pedal or something. So at this rare air level, any 2 can be wayy different than the next 2. I obviously got the 35 and it is legendary. Also, its wayy more guitar than any 28, like $400 more. It is the only non custom shop model that uses #6 wood, because the 35 is a reclamation project off the custom shop cutting room floor, hence the 3 pc back. The D-35 reclaims wood from general production, the Hd-35 reclaims wood from the custom shop. It is finished & plekked in the custom shop, its just wayy more guitar than any 28. This may or may not go into your decision, but my HD35 is way huge AND specific. When i heard those 2, that was a 1 second decision right there. Go Dawgs.

This was the best description of their differences. Your comments at the end on note articulation and aesthetics was spot on.

HD-35 hands down. Both beautiful sounding guitars, but that 35 just sings out.

My understanding is that the change in construction in the 28 occurred in the 40s not the 60s. People were putting heavier and heavier strings on them to get more volume, so Martin strengthened the soundboard in response to this. Unfortunately, this also changed the sound (not for the better) and many people would pay to have the guitars changed back to the original spec. This is why pre war 28s are the most valuable acoustic guitars on the planet. The HD was introduced to correct this but as you say the new spec 28 was wisely left in the line up - since it also had its fans and is still hugely popular. The HD28 is widely regarded as the best sounding acoustic you can get - at any price. Great video. Me and my HD28 thank you.

I have a D35, which I do love. That said, it took me a few years to really learn how to get the best sounds out of it. Because it resonates so well, it favors a more delicate touch. I play a lot of fingerstyle and get some true magic tones from it. That said, if you are doing big strumming of big six string chords, I can see why some could call it a little muddy. That said, it’s some beautiful mud.

I just got an HD-28 last week and I’m so, so happy with it. I have a D-15M and a Mahogany Dreadnought Jr., both of which I love, but the HD-28 is a wonder. I don’t gig, I just record into a Neumann 102 and the sound is perfect with minimal processing. And it stays in tune forever, more than any other guitar I have (28 of them).

Hey, Chris. That was a really, really good roundup of the history and specs of the two guitars. I have an HD35 and don't experience the playing drawback you describe. It is also a great fingerpicker. I listened to them blind and could always tell the HD35. That's really no big deal, but I have two other high end Martins and a couple of handmades, and my wife can always tell the HD35 FROM A DIFFERENT ROOM! So I'd ask you to give a bit more time before making your choice. My original reason for choosing the HD35 was because I prefer a bound fingerboard, but by the time I got round to buying one, the HD28 (and, as I recall, all other Martin Standard series) have pocket fret slots, which are indistinguishable in feel from bound, so it was the sound which tipped the balance. One piece of trivia - according to Chris Martin, it was actually the declining supplies in Brazilian RW specifically which led to the HD35 3 piece back, and they originally had a Brazilian offcut in the middle with East Indian on either side. They've been all EIRW for many years, of course. Finally, as far as I'm aware the HD35 is the only stock Martin with 1/4 inch bracing. Standard 000s have 5/16ths (I went to the Martin site to double check and only the 000 Deluxe has 1/4 inch!) and so the HD35 actually has LESS bracing than 000s generally, not the same! Some 'signature' models have 1/4 inch (notably the Stefan Grossman J38 - sadly long discontinued and a BIG body guitar for 1/4 inch). My friend has one and I have a J40. I can't hear a difference, even though the SG J38 has Madagascar RW. Thanks for a great watch.

I agree on the No binding on the neck and open back tuners of the HD-28. It also sounded like you could articulate better with it as well but it might just be my ears.

Classic review Chris. And your playing just keeps getting better. HD-28 owner. Both amazing instruments.

Greetings from Cologne Germany! I really appreciate your high quality reviews and would like to thank you for all the information I got out of them as wellnas the joy listening to you playing all those beautiful guitars. Keep your good work up 👍

I purchased an HD35 for my 60th BDay. I played both and love the sound of the 35. I quite looking at the looks of a guitar years ago. It could look like Willie's Trigger but if it sounds good, It's the one.

Chris, When I say I could just sit down on my recliner at 5:30am on a Saturday morning sipping my coffee and watch your videos.. it’s because I do. Great video! I am deciding between the 2 so thanks!

HD-35 Owner here. To my ear the 28 is a tad bit deeper and a beautiful sound and beautiful guitar. Don't know how you could go wrong with either.

I love the D-35 | I own a 00028 and a Takamine F360 (based on the 35) I love both but if I had to choose forever, I’d pick the 35 because it’s a little wild. It can’t be tamed on the soft end like tye 28 can, but it compressed on the hard playing end. Very nice, very unique.

Chris, Your presentation here was a "TEN!" . Seriously a very, really , very very good explanation with historical content. You are quality young man. Thank you for holding that standard. I bought a fabulous HD35 new in 1985. It was stolen in 2006. I tracked down the thief and cut off four fingers from each of her hands; Then I divorced her. I finally replaced her with a new 2018 D18. I am going to replace my stolen HD35 soon with a new traditional HD28. I find the HD28 & HD35 vastly different sounding guitars.

I love the HD35. I like the neck binding, I love the three piece back. But mostly I love that big sound. Wonderful. Thanks for all of the insight Chris.

Love the sound of the HD35 all the way!

Hello Chris; I am 72 years old and been playing guitar and performing as a side hustle since 1975. I am basically an Americana & Irish folk guitar player and singer. I also cover a lot of old school country songs in my repertoir. I have owned many acoustic guitars over the years. My main guitar I have right now is a 2001 Martin d16 cutaway with the fishman prefix blender system. A very nice guitar and I had been contemplating purchasing a d28. But after recently playing a d35 I'm totally sold on the d35 big sound and sustain and it's looks. My first guitar many years ago was a light toned sunburst acoustic Yamaha. I really like the look of Martin's Ambertone d35. Thank you for the demo of both the d28 & d35. After listening to how they both sound in someone else's hands I'm sold on the d35. Thank you for a very informative demo and history lesson about both of the iconic acoustic works of art. Take care and stay safe and may the fates be kind to you.

I picked up my HD35 in 1984 and love the volume and the overall sound of the guitar. At the time I didn’t have the opportunity to play the HD28 but I’m plenty happy with the HD35. Especially since the price brand new for it was $1100 dollars. It’s the loudest and most pronounced guitar you can have for bluegrass and for fingerstyle music.

Hi Chris, I feel like Martin HD35 sounds more rich and full, it produces bass on HD35 more than HD28.

Great analysis Thanks! I have a 1990 HD28 and a 1975 HD35 - they are both great, but the 35 touches my soul. Deeper sound.

Thanks for the history lesson on these models. I love my 2001 HD-28. Between the two guitars in your demo, it's a tough choice - they are different and I loved both.

I have a HD35, I am not a fan of the closed back tuners however it does sound amazing !

Both great. The HD28 is clearer. The HD35 is a bit warmer- and better in the bass -but the treble notes on the HD 28 were actually sweeter. For balance and clarity- the 28. For more bass and warmth- the 35. But both great. I owned a D18 in the '70's, and played some of the earliest 35's in stores. The 28 was just easier to play and the 35 at that time was considered less desirable than the iconic 28 by musicians I knew. That was then. Now it is just a matter of preference. Johnny Cash among others was fine with his D35. I think, as always, it is case by case. There are great 35's and great 28's. Cost no object, I like the 41 or 42. None of these have the wood sound of an 18. And that is why many of us aspire to owning multiple great guitars.

I’m looking at a HD28 this week. I’m definitely leaning in that direction. Thanks!

Thanks, Chris. Great information. I’m waiting for my HD-28e

My hd28 turned 25 recently. It just keeps getting better sounding. As the wood ages it dries more and vibrates more. It will be around long after I am gone. So im just taking care of it for a while...lucky me

You do such a great job with your guitar reviews! You’re the reason that I just bought an HD-28 with sunburst finish. It took 14 months to get, but it sure is worth it. It’s a beautiful guitar. Keep doing what you are doing.

I'm a fingerpicker and I would love to play both but to my ear the HD-35 would be my choice just for the booming sound and resonance. I wouldn't complain with either one though! Nice job Chris!

I too like the HD28 . I don't like fancy inlays, dots are fine, I also like the Herringbone on the HD ( the H is for Herringbone.) tuners are both good but I also like open gear ones like I had on a Texan in the 50s and 50s. I also think it sounds a tad bit brighter. Thanks!

I own a D35 made in 1972. I bought in high school. I’m 65 now. If I remember correctly it sold 700.00 new

I heard the same thing...the HD28 sounded better as far as a focus...as in: in your playing, it came off as the notes you intended to pop in your playing were more prevelant on the HD28 vs the HD35...some of the sound on the HD35 was washing out for some reason...I'm wearing some pretty good 2 driver earbuds listening to this...just my opinion of coarse...and I really want to like the sound of the HD35 better because I prefer the look of the 3 piece back and the bound fingerboard...but as they say, looks aren't everything...thanks for spending the time to do this video...in reality though, if there was 2 great Martins on Craigslist, both from say 2020, both in comparably great shape, one was an HD35 and the other was an HD28, and the HD35 was selling for 2K and the HD28 was selling for 2.5K, I'd get the HD35....they're both great guitars if you're looking for a non-cutaway dreadnaught...

Hello Chris, I came across your video as I am seriously considering upgrading a Martin from my ten year old Martin GC MMV. Your video clearly goes way beyond in depth and answered all my questions on the differences between the HD -28 and the HD-35. My next move is find a store that has both in stock to compare, but bring along my MMV and compare all three. Thank you for a no nonsense video.

Sorry, forgot to add.. Excellent informative video 👍

I just bought an HD-28. I searched for a while and tried several guitars - Martin and other brands. I hadn't tried an HD-28 yet and while I was playing a different guitar the guy at the shop brought a brand new HD-28 from the back still wrapped from the factory. I got to open it and play it for the first time. It completely overshadowed every other guitar I had tried. It came home with me and it has been an absolute game changer.

Have a HD-35. Love it! Sounding better all the time! They're both of course excellent guitars. I'm sure you'll be happy!

Chris, Thanks so much for your detailed explanation of the bracing differences between the HD28 & HD35. I own an HD28E and didn't know this. I also own a Martin D18 Sunburst, DRS2, and DSS15M mahogany and now have to know the bracing for each. Cheers, Rick Louisville KY

One of the better reviews I've seen.. I have the Martin HD28 and I've also played the 35's as well. I have been playing for over 20 years and have played many Martin's as well as old Gibsons and I have yet to find a guitar that compares with the fullness that the HD28 brings to the table. The 35 sounds great and very full but I feel like when playing bluegrass like I do some of the notes you hit are meant to be a little more quiet and softer to bring syncopation to the song and keep the listener guessing too. So the 28 will always be my first love. Great review again!

Great comparison, I own the HD-28 and while I gave it the edge while strumming I gave the edge to the HD-35 while finger picking . So I thought they were even, a matter of choice. They are both Martins , you can’t lose.

I personally like the 35 deeper sound & own a 35. Enjoy your videos. Thanks.

I was lucky enough to have the choice between these two exact guitars in 2018, The got the 35, lowered the action a bit, put 12's on it and WOW! The HD28V comes a bit closer but HD35 wins hands down for me.

I compared the D28 and D35 and ended up going with the D35. aesthetically, I do like the inlay better on the D28, but the 3 piece back on the D35 wins that shootout for me. I typically go for sounds first though. While the D28 is more focused along the entire range, I really like the boomy D35 on the low end. While the thinner bracing the high end pierces through the boomy bass and it gives it a particular dynamic that I just love. I think there are several guitars that have the same focus as the D28 making it sound more plain compared with the more unusual sound of the D35 - if that makes any sense. Anyway, I still love them both and you can't go wrong with either. Great review and thanks!

Great review, Chris. I'm actually leaning toward the 35; I've been a Taylor guy for years (after years of Gibsons and Martins); I'm upgrading and looking to head back to Martin, so thanks for your thoughts. Keep on keepin' on. Peace, T

I love my HD28! This HD35 has some aural similarities to my Collings OM. Interesting! Thanks for the detailed review and history of these Martins.

I love his information and history he provides us.

I totally follow your evaluation. And my acoustic ears wasn't born yesterday. The 28 is more defined. Keep the good stuff happening. Appreciated ^

Really great information and demos. I'd be proud to add either to my collection, but I prefer the timeless look of the HD28. I like the aesthetic details: The volute and open-backed tuners are selling points for me. I believe Martin released the D35 in 1965 with standard binding/purfling (no herringbone) and a black pick guard with the Grover Roto-matics. Since they reimagined and released the HD35 with tortoise guard and herringbone trim, it would have made sense to have gone with open-backed tuners for the "older" and (IMO) more timeless look. Point being: If they did not stay true to the original aesthetics -- why Roto-matics?

For me the 35 sounds more like a loud guitar played as back up to a singer while the 28 sounds more like a soloist quality instrument.

Nice review! It just re-affirmed my choice to get a HD35. I played many different guitars, and I always went back to the Martin HD35. I sometimes get to perform on a concert system ( Avid SC48 mixer, Meyer FOH ) and the sound guy has told me several times that my guitar is the best sounding, and easiest to mix acoustic guitar he has worked with. I love the HD28

It took me some time to choose my ‘’favorite’’ Martin model . They all amazing and I finishing choosing the D-41 . I love them all …..

The HD-28 for me - it's about the overtones and character of the sound - I wrote this before I saw the end of the video.

The Herringbone was not dropped from Martin Guitars soon after WW II because I was difficult to install but because it was no longer available from Germany where it had been sourced. They used it until all their stock was depleted. Your other information presented is right on. I have both a 1969 D-35 and a 1998 HD-28 and they are as you describe. Which do I prefer, the D-35 because it has a mellower tone for folk and the HD-28 to play blue grass and some of the beetles songs like Black Bird. The HD-28 has a very percussive tone that really projects. I did not know that the bracing on the D-35 was thinner then that on the HD-28. This was new information to me and explains the more mellow tone of the D-35. I really appreciated this information. Finally I understand what really appealed to me about the D-35. I love that unique tone and now understand its source. The D-35 sounds like no other Dreadnought. But I love both of them for their differences and similarities. After all they are both Dreadnoughts. I play them both nightly in a local "Live Caffe" here in Daejeon, South Korea.

Thanks for the video man. I'm now leaning towards the HD 28

Definitely one of the best comparisons between the two big boys of Martin dreds. I've owned a D-28, HD28V and a D-35. All have their strengths and weaknesses. Of course the 28's have slightly heavier bracing which gives more focused tone. It would also help long term with both humidit/temp changes, and the ability to have 12/13 strings. I was always worried about bellying the 35 with 13's during the crazy weather changes in my area. Tone-wise, the 35 always blew away the competition. My HD-28V was a MONSTER when you really started getting at it, but the 35 was like that old truck you grew up with. It would just keep going no matter what you tossed it's way. Loud and proud!! For me, the aesthetics of fingerboard binding and the multicolored 3 piece back (center stripe was much lighter) is what set the 35 apart from the rest.

I think that's a brilliant bit of work. I totally agree. I have a 1972 Martin D-28, but I've always loved that mellow, resonant, rich d-35 sound FOR SOME SONGS. But instead of buying a 35 for live performances, I bought a d-18 with the recycled timber top. It has the built in pick-up. Maybe it's not as pure a sound as the 28 or 35-but it works beautifully on stage. Few people in the audience would get the nuances of these guitars. Only other Martin guitarists. Probably the nicest Martin I've ever played was a very old Martin. Small body, old open machine heads. I can't remember the exact date, but it was probably one of their first. It belonged to Glen Shorrick who was the lead singer with an 80's group called The Little River Band. This little thing sounded like a piano. I wish I owned it.

Never played an HD35, but I own an HD28 and it is amazing. Certainly a purchase I will never regret!

Great review!! Thanks a lot!

They compliment each other to my ears .Both sound outstanding as is your playing of them.

About a month ago I finally did it. I bought a Martin HD35. This piece of art is simply amazing.

I'm an HD28 owner, dream sounding guitar and being able to pick it up every day is a bonus. The sound grows on you. Mine is an older one so has the One and eleven sixteen nut width which I prefer and the Grover tuners. My D18 has the open tuners and One and three quarter inch nut width. I find the smaller nut width neck of my HD28 easier to play. I thought the HD35 was definitely louder but had trepidations about that. Hard to assess subjectively though unless you have them in your mitts to test run side by side yourself. Thanks for the interesting review.

I would pick the same HD-28 for all the same reasons you explain in the video Awesome video thanks for the insight as I was torn between both myself now I know witch one I’ll be getting. Thanks

Thank you for a great explanation and review. Just as you I like the both guitars, but loves the HD-28. For me it is about the clarity and the astethics.

Terrific video, for both the history and the comparisons of the two guitars. I appreciated your variation in songs so as to bring out different musical aspects and show how well each guitar sounded across styles. I'm old and about to buy (finally) a Martin guitar, and I am definitely leaning toward the HD 28. Now we're talkin' the subtlties of two incredibly great guitars. Listening carefully to both, I find the HD28 has great lows, not as bassy as the hd35, but to me the latter lows are almost too much, as though they overpower the mid and high tones. Like one commeenter stated, it takes time to learn how to play the d35 and work with its acoustics. Nevertheless, overall, I prefer the sound of the hd28; just an amazing balance of tones. Again, thanks for a terrific video.

For what it is worth I heard more of the Clapton sound out the HD28, like you said better transition from single notes to cords!

Thanks Chris, love these videos. I have both of these guitars and just love them. They are very hard to put down.

I'd be more than happy with either one. Maybe one day if I win the lottery.

I usually do a solo act, and about 3 years ago I went through the exact same comparison with these two guitars. I finally chose the HD35, and this guitar just keeps getting better!

Both amazing and great playing . I’ve narrowed down my next purchase to HD28 or D28

Thank you Chris, yesterday i could do my own comparison here in Milano. I ended up with very same conclusions!

Lost all desires of buying a D35, 41, 42 or 45 after buying my '22 HD-28 standard. Only desire now, is to add a new D-18 for a different voice and personality. Great video!

I don’t own either one. I’ve always had the D-28 or HD-28 in my sights but the more I hear the HD-35 the more I’m leaning in that direction. I’d love to see a comparison of the HD-35 and a J-45. Thanks for all you do! Cheers

Hi, thanks for that comparison. I own a Judy Collins Signature HD-35 SJC 6 string with a maple back in the three piece. What attracted me to this instrument was indeed the resonance. Every not or chord played sounded like one had a full orchestra coming from the sound hole. Mind you, I never take it to a gig as my Gibson Songwriter has that more focused sound that you were talking about Chris. But when it is just me and the guitar, it is always the HD35.

Awesome, detailed review! I learned a lot. Thanks Chris

It’s interesting, I went to Nazareth Pa. and played several models. 3 HD-28s all had a variation in tone and projection. Only 2 HD 35s, a 45 and several 18’s, even a few smaller bodied models, Parlors etc. after playing at least a dozen guitars, I bought an HD-35, because it played and sounded the best of all the guitars I played. Even the two HD 35s had a variation in tone. So while I agree, in this particular video, the 28 was more articulate, I did not find that to be the case with the several guitars I played. The 45 I played sounded ever so slightly better than them all, but not an additional $1,000+ better, it was so subtle. An average ear couldn’t tell the difference. All said, as we all know, 5 of the exact same model of guitar can sound different. And one could be a gem and one could be a total dud!

Thanks Chris, very good information as always.

Both are sublime but the 35 is more sublime... I'd just get both... Really enjoyed the passionate demo; well done! 🤘

Love my HD35, although I'd never turn my nose up at either one. Fantastic guitars, both.

Thanks Chris for your cheerful reviews 🎶🎶🎶

If I can ever get my hands on one of these, my choice would also be the 28 because I think its tone would go better with my voice. When I sang along with both, I felt I was competing with those sweet, ringing upper-mid tones on the 35. If I were more fingerstyle, I think the 35 would be the one.

Great review.....👏👏☘

You need both!

Love my HD-35 50th anniversary model

Got an HD28 reimagined. Awesome. Not sure if it sounds as great as the SC Tony Rice i owned from 99-04, but it is still pretty great. Also, Chris..you do the best job by far of anyone on you tube. In one of your videos you said you talk too much. No you don't. You give GREAT information and insight. Dont change thing.

Love your guys videos! My opinion is the HD-28 is the best guitar on the planet. I'm the proud owner of a 2019 HD-28 and it's the sweetest sounding wooden box ever made. I love the HD-35 to though so it's definitely a battle there! Keep them coming Chris you rock bro!!🤘😎🤘

In my opinion this is a tough one . They're both amazing guitars but I lean towards the HD28 . The HD35 sounded like there was a little distortion in the base like it was overwhelming for just a bit . I would still take either one . Revision 10-21-2022 , the HD35 is my favorite. Things change .

HD-28 for me!

I have both. I can’t say which I like best because it depends on the day and the music that they produce!

I'm with you on the HD-28 - it has such an excellent, well defined top end. The scalloped bracing on the HD-28 makes a big difference - one I really like

I have a HD28 Ambertone and a Taylor 814 ce. I hardly ever play the Taylor because I just love the sound it give me. Tomorrow I think I may go and trade of my Taylor for a HD 35. We will see once I play it. Thanks for comparing the two Martins.

I have a D-35 and it’s a winner. I compared both and the D-35 won.

I like the sound of the HD35, but both lovely!

Have an HD 28 VR for 24 yrs. Never looked back, it very sweet and dynamic if you want it to be.

Unless you’re strumming very hard the HD-35 produces a bigger, richer sound that’s more satisfying to my ear. The potential muddiness of a 35 would only be heard if you’re a very hard strummer, but you could just modify your strumming to eliminate that.

Wow!! That 35 is a CANNNNON! I would love to have that for finger style because I love the rich full sound that 000's and OM's don't/can't produce. Strummed chords on the 35 produce so much bass that it overpowers and drowns out the upper register notes of chords making the chords sound unbalanced. You're right, Chris, it would be difficult to play a combination of strumming/individual notes and have it sound articulate. My choice?? I'd love to add a D-35 to my collection, but without fingerboard binding, with snowflake fret markers and butterbean open-back tuners. In other words, I'd like to have the D-35 body with the D-28 neck/tuners. I'm suppose that if I really wanted those specs, I could always order one from the Martin Custom Shop. 😁 Thanks, Chris, for yet another great comparison video. Your videos are some of the best, most informative ones on RU-vid! BTW, the reason Martin originally came up with the 3-piece back design was because of a dwindling supply/source of Brazilian rosewood with which to make full-sized backs, so I believe the center piece was BRW and the other two pieces were EIRW. Eventually, of course, the back became all EIRW.

Hi. I have a Martin D-35e Retro 50th Anniversary model 2015. I’ve loved the guitar since I bought it brand new. A beautiful guitar in every way. Six years old now, and the sound is amazing. The 3 piece back, 1/4 inch bracing plus the matching binding is the classic Martin dreadnought. It looks and sounds the business to me, with the looks being pristine. we are all different though. Just go with your gut feeling Chris 👍😀