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Question:
I have some questions about buying a Martin guitar: 1) Is it better to buy a used one or a new one and why? 2) What's the difference between a three piece back and a one or two piece back? 3) What kind of used Martin can I get for $800-$1200?
Answer:
Buying a late-model used Martin can be advantageous since you will usually get one for a little less than it cost new. These guitars are such high-quality, they have few problems holding up through the years when they are properly cared for. They also hold their value very well. Buying new, however, gives you a lifetime warranty, which I believe is non-transferable(could be wrong about that), and more choices in different models. The difference in the backs is mostly cosmetic, and came about during a wood shortage. I believe their website has some good info on that. www.mguitar.com The 3-piece looks really nice, and I don't believe it detracts from tone. For $800-1200 you should be able to find a good D-18, which is pretty much the lowest-priced of their best models. New, that would buy much less, but still a damn good guitar. A Martin is still a Martin. I would first check out a Larrivee guitar. Simple, but great sounding. You can get a brand new D-03 for $700, and they are as good sounding as any Taylor or Martin.
I have some questions about buying a Martin guitar: Is it better to buy a used one or a new one and why?
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Comment #1 (Posted by Boyd A. Stubbe
)
-- I prefer used guitars over new, in the better brands or models. The used guitar will usually just get better and one gets not only a good reveiw of what the sound is, but also how the guitar is holding up. I just finished refurbishing a D-35, complete finish re-do, and guantee that guitar sounded way better than any new one. It had humidity cracks,neck crack and lots of scratches. These are all things as to how guitar was handled for its 15 years, but actual structural or how guitar was built originally told me it was a fine guitar. The sound improved with fixes and is a really fine guitar again and with reasonable care good for 20 more years without any hitches. -
Comment #2 (Posted by Mark
)
I am, and have been a Martin service center for over 20 years, so I speak with some authority. Modern Martins are every bit the equal of the earlier models from a construction standpoint. However, a used and/or older instrument will most likely have a better tone and volume than a new instrument. I suppose alot has to do with what you are willing to spend, as opposed to the trade off on warrenty etc.