Re: Taylor versus Martin Acoustic Guitars
Interesting article, though I wish you'd done more to match price points and features at the various levels. BTW, there are several typos in the article, and some of the Amazon links do not match up to the guitars tested. Thanks for posting.
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It was also interesting to re-read this thread and my posts, three years later. What has changed for me? I have added four more Martin Dreads to my collection! They are:
HD-28V E Retro
D-18 E Retro (used)
D-41 (used, 2010)
Custom Shop Dread.
This guitar is basically a D-35 with Madagascar RW back and sides with a Cocobolo wedge, Koa binding, and an Italian Alpine Spruce top with HD-28 bracing (scalloped, not forward shifted). This was part of a custom run of 50 for Guitar Center; they call it a D-28 MC. No pickup. Turning out to be killer guitar. Spendy, but worth every penny.
The Retros use ths Fishman F1 Aura+ pickup system, and to my ear, it is by far the best and most natural pickup available. The D-18 version is built on the current D-18 acoustic platform, and the HD-28 V E Retro is built on the HD-28 V...but, with the wider and more comfortable (to me) Performing Artist Taper neck. I bought the -28 and then lucked out and found the used -18 for insanely cheap. A no-brainer. These are amazing guitars. I haven't gigged my Taylor 710-CE for over a year. I haven't even needed to delve into the deep programming of the F1+. Mixing the tone in my PA requires little of any EQ adjustment. I cannot recommend these guitars highly enough!
The D-41 came on my radar because of its low price from a private party and I was able to negotiate an even better deal. It has some dings, and it was filthy dirty when I got it, but it cleaned up spectacularly. The D-41 is essentially a blinged out HD-28, so not quite as open and responsive as the HD-28 Vintage models, but moreso than the Standard Series D-28. It is a beautiful sounding and playing instrument. I love the pearl...I can stare at it all day long.
One thing I have noticed with Taylor's is that they do not seem to hold their value as well as the comparable Martins. Perhaps because Taylor is constantly changjng specs; the older guitars become less desirable and take a beating in the used market. I've lost a lot on my Taylor 710-CE according to the various bluebooks, while my Standard Series Martins from 2002-2004 have all appreciated. Definitely something a new buyer should consider.
Bill