[AHill]

The thing is, there never was a "standard" Martin that stayed the same configuration for very long. They changed all the time: bracing, string spacing, tuners, pick guards, tonewoods, etc. I'm pretty sure Martin didn't make these decisions in a vacuum. They are trying to keep up with the times. People's taste in acoustic guitars has changed over the years. If you want the more "traditional" Martin sound, then there are plenty of used vintage Martins to choose from.