Music

This is a rare and special 1953 Martin D-28 featuring a verified Adirondack spruce top with Brazilian Rosewood back and sides! Check out the included demo video.I’ve played a handful of these “mystery top” Martins from 1953, and among the best ones, there does seem to be an extra gear with regard to headroom and tonal range. This D-28 has a smoothness, sweetness, and power that is reminiscent of a wartime D-28, with the primary difference being the straight bracing here (as opposed to the scalloped braces on the earlier ones), which actually helps limit the boominess. It’s like a prewar D-28 that’s a little easier to record! It’s really an awesome instrument.This D-28 has been confirmed to have Adirondack spruce by David Musselwhite and has been evaluated and appraised independently by Jim Baggett of Mass Street Music and Beau Hudson of Music City Guitars. Jim assessed the market value at $15-17k, and Beau at $15k. The main modifications are: overspray, three tiny side cracks, a cleated pickguard crack, one other very tight top crack, a repaired jack hole on the treble side rim, and a few nicks and dings here and there. The bridge has been reglued and the bridgeplate replaced with another period-correct maple plate. Thanks to a neck reset and refret by Micah Bruce, the playability is top-notch!I’m selling this D-28 for a friend of mine, and he’s motivated to move it to help fund another purchase. We’ve reduced the asking price to $12,400 here on Reverb (more than $2,500 below the appraised value) for this amazing old D-28. This may be the least expensive Adirondack-topped D-28 available, at least based on the market rates I’ve seen!Comes with a ‘60s Martin hardshell case.

The Martin D-28 stands as a legendary symbol in the realm of acoustic guitars, celebrated for its unparalleled craftsmanship and unmistakable tone. This model represents a pinnacle in Martin Guitar's esteemed lineup, embodying a legacy of over a century of instrument-making expertise. At its core, the D-28 boasts a classic dreadnought body shape, which contributes to its robust projection and resonant sound profile. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the D-28 features a solid Sitka spruce top, renowned for its responsiveness and clarity, allowing every note to ring with clarity and precision. Complementing the top are solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, renowned for their warmth, depth, and nuanced tonal characteristics. This combination creates a sonic landscape that is both powerful and balanced, making the D-28 equally adept at accommodating intricate fingerstyle passages and vigorous strumming patterns. Beyond its acoustic prowess, the D-28 is revered for its exceptional playability and enduring design. Its comfortable neck profile and smooth fretwork provide players with a seamless playing experience, whether in the studio, on stage, or during late-night jam sessions. The guitar's timeless aesthetic, characterized by elegant appointments and meticulous detailing, further underscores its status as a true icon in the world of acoustic instruments. Since its introduction, the Martin D-28 has remained a steadfast companion to generations of musicians across genres and styles. From folk legends to contemporary virtuosos, its versatile sound and unwavering reliability have made it a staple in recording studios, concert halls, and living rooms worldwide. With each strum, the D-28 continues to inspire creativity, evoke emotion, and stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of Martin Guitar craftsmanship.