As the oldest guitar manufacturer in the U.S., Martin Guitar has been at the core of the evolution of the modern acoustic guitar. Since C.F. Martin founded the company in New York City in 1833—later moving it to its current home in Nazareth, Pennsylvania—the name has stood for quality craftsmanship and superb tone. Though the range of models they make has expanded over the decades, the acoustic guitars of the Standard Series have been the rock behind the reputation.

We've talked about Martin's illustrious history before, most notably in our guide to the Martin D-28, so we won't do a deep dive here. We would say though, it's extraordinary that a single family, over more than 190 years, still is at the cutting edge of acoustic guitar design and manufacturing, reliably putting great guitars in the hands of players worldwide.

Pictured: Martin D-18 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

One need only look at the range of players and performers over the last century who have relied on Martin guitars as their primary—sometimes only—instrument to start to grasp the impact Martin has had on the sound and image of the acoustic guitar. From Woody Guthrie’s 1936 000-18 and Hank Williams’ D-28 (later owned by Neil Young) to Young’s own D-45 and Willie Nelson’s well-worn N-20 nylon string, “Trigger,” some of the most memorably moving songs of the past century have been written on a Martin acoustic. And that tradition continues, with artists like John Mayer, Dylan Gossett and Valerie June making sure Martin continues to carry the torch.

Table of Contents

Martin Standard Series Comparison Chart
Martin Standard Series Guitars
   Martin 000-18 Auditorium
   Martin 000-28 Auditorium
   Martin D-18 Dreadnought
   Martin D-28 Dreadnought
   Martin HD-28 Dreadnought
   Martin D-28 Street Legend Dreadnought
   Martin SC-28E Dreadnought
   Martin D-35 Dreadnought
   Martin D-41 Dreadnought
   Martin D-42 Dreadnought
   Martin D-45 Dreadnought
Pick Your Martin

Martin Standard Series Comparison Chart

Here's a convenient way to look at the primary feature differences between the various Martin Standard Series acoustic guitars. Before we get to the chart, though, we'd like to call out some of the things that all of these guitars have in common:

• All Standard Series Martins have solid Sitka spruce tops and solid mahogany necks
• All back and side woods are solid
• Fingerboards are all solid ebony with 20 frets (14 frets to the body)

Pictured: Martin 000-28 Acoustic Guitar in Ambertone

We'll also note that generally mahogany back and sides, as with the 000-18 and D-18, tend to have a little warmer sound, where Indian rosewood back and sides will be a little brighter and project a little better. Since wood is a natural material, there's no specific numbers that can be put on those differences, therefore each guitar is as individual as its player.

Finally, a word about bracing. You'll notice a few different bracing types here: Scalloped, non-scalloped and forward-shifted bracing, plus Martin’s proprietary Tone Tension bracing. So, what are the differences?

• Scalloped bracing makes the braces lighter and the top more responsive.
• Non-scalloped bracing makes a stiffer top.
• Forward-shifted bracing moves the crosspoint (the "X") of the bracing closer to the bridge. This opens up more of the top to resonate fully, increasing bass response and volume.
• Tone Tension is an exclusive design to Martin that is asymmetric and is designed specifically for their SC acoustic-electrics. In addition to tweaking the tonal response of the top to optimize it for "plugged-in" use, it helps guard against feedback.

So, with all that out of the way, here's that comparison of the Standard Series models to help you pick the best Martin acoustic guitar for your needs:

Guitar Model	Back/Side Woods	Body Size/Style	Neck Profile	Bracing Pattern	Onboard Electronics
000-18	Mahogany	Auditorium	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Scalloped X-Bracing	No
000-28	Indian Rosewood	Auditorium	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Scalloped X-Bracing	No
D-18	Mahogany	Dreadnought	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Scalloped X-Bracing	No
D-28	Indian Rosewood	Dreadnought	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Forward-Shifted Non-Scalloped X-Bracing	No
HD-28	Indian Rosewood	Dreadnought	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Forward-Shifted Non-Scalloped X-Bracing	No
D-28 Street Legend	Indian Rosewood	Dreadnought	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Non-Scalloped X-Bracing	No
SC-28E	Indian Rosewood	SC Body Style	Low Profile Velocity Neck	Tone Tension Assym. Bracing	L.R. Baggs Anthem
D-35	Indian Rosewood	Dreadnought	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Forward-Shifted Non-Scalloped X-Bracing	No
D-41	Indian Rosewood	Dreadnought	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Forward-Shifted Non-Scalloped X-Bracing	No
D-42	Indian Rosewood	Dreadnought	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Forward-Shifted Non-Scalloped X-Bracing	No
D-45	Indian Rosewood	Dreadnought	Modified Low Oval, High-Performance Taper	Forward-Shifted Non-Scalloped X-Bracing	No

Martin Standard Series Guitars

This series comprises the acoustics that Martin built its reputation on—for tone, for craftsmanship, for playability. Whether you're looking for a smaller-body instrument for fingerpicking and strumming or a dreadnought that will be heard over the din, if the time has come that you want to step up to a Martin acoustic, one of these is a great place to start.

Martin 000-18 Auditorium

Why It's Cool: The 000-18 carries all of Martin's tradition in a single, simple package.

Things to Consider:

• Excellent tonal balance for fingerpicking or general strumming

• Smaller body size is more comfortable for some players

• Mahogany back and sides add extra warmth

Pictured: Martin Standard Series 000-18 Auditorium Acoustic Guitar

The Martin 000-18 blends basic vintage appeal with modern playability. Featuring a solid Sitka spruce top and solid genuine mahogany back and sides, the auditorium-sized body delivers a warm, balanced tone that's perfect for fingerstyle players like John Fahey, who frequently chose a 000-18 for performances. Its modified low-oval neck with high-performance taper ensures comfortable playability across the fretboard, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of musical styles.

Martin 000-28 Auditorium

Why It's Cool: The 000-28 delivers the convenience of an auditorium body with just enough elegance to entrance.

Things to Consider:

• Rosewood back and sides for brightness and projection

• Small, comfortable body size

• A fingerstyle guitar par excellence

Pictured: Martin Standard Series 000-28 Auditorium Acoustic Guitar

A timeless classic reimagined, the Martin 000-28 offers the rich tones of a solid Sitka spruce top paired with East Indian rosewood back and sides. This legendary instrument is perhaps best known for its use in Eric Clapton's performance on MTV Unplugged. The auditorium body size provides a balanced sound with clear articulation, ideal for both strumming and fingerpicking. With the understated elegance of its appointments, comfortable neck profile and clear, concise tone, this guitar embodies the legacy of Martin craftsmanship.

Martin D-18 Dreadnought

Why It's Cool: Get that big dreadnought sound with a little added warmth.

Things to Consider:

• Mahogany body adds extra low-end warmth

• Forward-shifted bracing for bigger, louder sound

• Simple appointments put the attention on you, not your guitar

Pictured: Martin Standard Series D-18 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

The Martin D-18 Standard brings a legendary sound to today's players and has been the choice of artists ranging from bluegrass legend Clarence White to Kurt Cobain. Its dreadnought body, constructed with a solid Sitka spruce top and genuine mahogany back and sides, produces a powerful, resonant tone with crisp highs and robust lows, making it one of the best-reviewed dreadnought acoustic guitars available. The forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing enhances its dynamic response, while the high-performance neck taper offers effortless playability for any style.

Martin D-28 Dreadnought

Why It's Cool: It's a classic for good reasons—great tone and understated looks.

Things to Consider:

• Big, bright rosewood sound

• Forward-shifted bracing for larger, louder sound

• A flatpicker's dream instrument to cut through the crowd

Pictured: Martin Standard Series D-28 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

An icon reborn, the Martin D-28 combines classic design with modern enhancements, making it one of the most popular choices for acoustic players and singer/songwriters like Joni Mitchell and John Prine. The solid Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides create the rich, full-bodied sound that has defined the D-28 for generations. Its non-scalloped forward-shifted bracing provides a balanced tonal foundation, and the updated neck profile ensures a comfortable playing experience for contemporary musicians. Our favorite aesthetic touch is the "chainlink" back stripe reminiscent of the post-WWII instruments—classic and elegant.

For a deeper dive into the history of the D-28 and Martin's current D-28 offerings, be sure to check out A Guide to the Martin D-28.

Martin HD-28 Dreadnought

Why It's Cool: Do we need to say more than pre-WWII-style herringbone binding and back stripe?

Things to Consider:

• Modern playability with a nod to vintage tradition

• Rosewood back and sides keep the big tone balanced

• Forward-shifted bracing for bigger, louder sound

Pictured: Martin Standard Series HD-28 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

The Martin HD-28 is a nod to the pre-war era of acoustic excellence. With herringbone top trim and a solid Sitka spruce top, this guitar offers vintage aesthetics and sound and is the choice of artists like Father John Misty and Vince Gill. The East Indian rosewood back and sides, combined with forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing, deliver a rich, dynamic tone with enhanced bass response. It's an instrument that captures the essence of Martin's storied heritage.

Martin D-28 Street Legend Dreadnought

Why It's Cool: The Street Legend has the vintage vibe of a well-loved instrument.

Things to Consider:

• Rosewood back and sides aid brightness and projection

• Subtle appointments bring understated elegance

• Well-balanced, controlled big sound from the non-scalloped bracing

Pictured: Martin D-28 Street Legend Acoustic Guitar

Inspired by the well-worn guitars of seasoned performers, the Martin D-28 Street Legend boasts a distressed finish that tells a story. Its solid Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood body produce the iconic D-28 sound—bold, balanced and resonant. The non-scalloped X-bracing maintains structural integrity while allowing the top to vibrate freely, making it a reliable companion for any stage.

Martin SC-28E Dreadnought

Why It's Cool: The SC-28E delivers a unique look and advanced playability.

Things to Consider:

• Excellent upper-fret access

• Asymmetric Tone Tension bracing helps control feedback on loud stages

• Optimized tone for plugged-in playing

Pictured: Martin SC-28E Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Innovative design meets classic tone in the Martin SC-28E. Featuring a revolutionary offset body shape with a deep cutaway, this guitar offers unparalleled access to the higher frets. Its Low Profile Velocity neck enhances playability, catering to the demands of modern guitarists. The solid Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides provide a rich tonal palette, while the L.R. Baggs Anthem electronics with their TRU-MIC technology and a built-in soundhole tuner make it stage-ready. Country music's Jason Isbell, who also has a signature D-18, chooses the SC-28E for his live performances.

Martin D-35 Dreadnought

Why It's Cool: The D-35 stands out with its unique three-piece back, offering a distinctive look and a booming bass response.

Things to Consider:

• Rosewood back and sides for enhanced bass and projection

• Non-scalloped bracing for a balanced, sturdy tone

• Classic Martin dreadnought sound with a touch more low-end depth

Pictured: Martin Standard Series D-35 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

The Martin D-35 boasts a distinctive three-piece East Indian rosewood back, delivering a unique tonal complexity. Paired with a solid Sitka spruce top, this acoustic dreadnought offers deep bass and clear trebles. The choice of artists from Bruce Springsteen to Seth Avett of the Avett Brothers, the D-35 has both punch and nuance. The non-scalloped forward-shifted bracing provides a strong tonal foundation, and the high-performance neck taper ensures comfortable playability. It's a classic choice for those seeking a robust and versatile acoustic voice.

Martin D-41 Dreadnought

Why It's Cool: The D-41 offers classic Martin tone with refined, understated elegance.

Things to Consider:

• Abalone rosette and top trim for a touch of luxury

• Forward-shifted bracing for a powerful, rich tone

• Excellent craftsmanship and playability for discerning musicians

Pictured: Martin Standard Series D-41 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

Elegance meets exceptional sound in the Martin D-41. Adorned with intricate abalone inlays and a solid Sitka spruce top, this guitar is as visually stunning as it is tonally impressive. Guitar virtuosos like Tommy Emmanuel and Billy Strings have seen with a D-41 in performance. The East Indian rosewood back and sides, along with forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing, deliver a rich, resonant tone with plenty of projection. It's a premium instrument that embodies Martin's commitment to excellence.

Martin D-42 Dreadnought

Why It's Cool: The D-42 balances tradition and beauty with enhanced abalone detailing and timeless Martin tone.

Things to Consider:

• Extensive abalone inlay on the top, back and sides

• Forward-shifted bracing for a full, bold sound

• A mix of vintage aesthetics with modern playability

Pictured: Martin Standard Series D-42 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

The Martin D-42 offers luxurious appointments and superior sound quality. Featuring extensive abalone trim and a solid Sitka spruce top, it's a feast for the eyes and ears. The frequent choice of players like John Mayer and Paul McCartney, the combination of East Indian rosewood and forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing results in a warm, full-bodied tone with exceptional clarity. This guitar is designed for the discerning player who values both aesthetic beauty and sonic performance.

Martin D-45 Dreadnought

Why It's Cool: The D-45 is the ultimate in luxury, craftsmanship and iconic Martin sound—top of the line in every way.

Things to Consider:

• Fully bound body with lavish abalone detailing

• Highest level of craftsmanship in the Martin lineup

• Forward-shifted bracing and premium tonewoods for unmatched richness and projection

Pictured: Martin Standard Series D-45 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

At the pinnacle of the Standard Series, the Martin D-45 is the epitome of craftsmanship. Lavishly decorated with abalone pearl inlay on every border, it exudes elegance. From Gene Autry, who helped make the D-45 famous, to contemporary players like Marty Stuart, players choose the instrument for its solid Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides which create a rich, balanced tone that is both powerful and nuanced. With its forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing, this acoustic guitar offers a dynamic response suitable for the most expressive performances.

Pick Your Martin

Now that we've taken a look at what's available in the Martin Standard Series, it's time to ask the question, "Which one is right for me?" Do you like small and simple, or big and luxurious? Do you play fingerstyle, flatpick, or just strum it? Whatever you like, there's a Martin to suit your playing style, and the best way to find out which one is to come into your local Guitar Center store, pluck a guitar off the wall and play it.

Pictured: Martin D-45 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

Our knowledgeable associates are there to answer any questions you may have. Or, if you can't make it to a store, give us a call and your personal Gear Adviser will be glad to help you find the instrument that will get your musical life in tune.