Quote:
Originally Posted by blues2rock
With all else being equal, what's the difference in tonal qualities?
Is one joint stronger than the other? A few more years before a neck reset is required?
I assume mortise tenon is cheaper because it comes standard on all the "lower model" Martins.
Thanks,
Jason
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Hi Jason,
I have a Martin DC-16RE AURA (mortise-and-tenon), a Martin D-15 Custom Spruce & Rosewood (mortise-and-tenon), a Martin DC-28E (dovetail) and a Martin D-18GE (dovetail). They all sound good and I'd attribute most tonal differences to the bracing patterns and woods used in these guitars. I think the mortise-and-tenon joint isn't inferior to the dovetail joint tone-wise or sustain-wise. Collings uses mortise-and-tenon joints on their guitars as does Huss & Dalton and other makers too.
I'd suspect the mortise-and-tenon joint would help facilitate any repairs and adjustments to a guitar when it's necessary to remove the neck.
Regards,
SpruceTop