Martin OM-21

[edwardmatt83]

I am looking at getting my 2nd guitar. After a little more than a year of playing a dreadnought and learning that I like fingerstyle guitar, I have decided that I want an OM size guitar.

What's the consensus on the OM-21? It sounds good in video reviews I have watched. It looks like it might be tough to find one to play locally. Seems like a good value.

Any other models that you would recommend over it?

[Wade Hampton]

The OM-21 is one of the best guitars that Martin makes. It’s arguably the best value-given for dollar spent among the guitars that Martin makes, as well. The OM-21 is a terrific-sounding guitar, and is perfect for what you say you’re looking for. It’s hard to go wrong with one.


Wade Hampton Miller

[MHC]

No frills, nothing fancy. But a straight up lovely guitar. A great sounding workhorse and one of my very favorite Martin models.

[Orfeas]

Very classic OM. Just play before you buy and if you can find more than one play them all.

[Rhino208]

Got one five years ago. I went into 3 different GCs around the DC Metro area. First big guitar purchase. I was looking for something in the parlor size. Wanted an Eric Clapton model Martin. Had the funds and wife was ok with it. Love the god. Tried all of them, loved the sound but didn't like the neck. So I passed.

Tried all the 000-18s at the same time and one shop had an OM-21. Once I picked it up and played it I was in love. Best guitar I have. No bling, great size and projection, very responsive. Great all around player. Good for fingers and strumming. Big sound for size. One guitar that I will never sell. Very comfortable to play for hours. It's my picker during football season in front of the tv.

Great value for the money.

[Napman41]

The Martin OM-21 is an excellent value at $2k.

[Nctom]

I stupidly sold the one I had in spite of loving it. Probably my favorite Martin. I do have a CEO-7 that somewhat compensates for the OM-21, but I would really like to have another one.

[Kh1967]

Originally Posted by Wade Hampton

The OM-21 is one of the best guitars that Martin makes. It’s arguably the best value-given for dollar spent among the guitars that Martin makes, as well. The OM-21 is a terrific-sounding guitar, and is perfect for what you say you’re looking for. It’s hard to go wrong with one.


Wade Hampton Miller

This ^^^^^^^

[FOG01]

Originally Posted by Orfeas

Very classic OM. Just play before you buy and if you can find more than one play them all.

I'll second that.

[HeyMikey]

I recently played a few during my search last year. Great sounding and playing guitars. Definitely try before you buy if you can. I couldn't compare two side-by-side but I do remember one that just seemed a bit less impressive than the other two. It could have been dead strings, but it always helps to try first.

[Kupuna50]

The Martin '21' models are the best bang for the buck.
They have everything a '28' model has without all the bling.
Go for it.

[djg]

Originally Posted by edwardmatt83

I am looking at getting my 2nd guitar. After a little more than a year of playing a dreadnought and learning that I like fingerstyle guitar, I have decided that I want an OM size guitar.

What's the consensus on the OM-21? It sounds good in video reviews I have watched. It looks like it might be tough to find one to play locally. Seems like a good value.

Any other models that you would recommend over it?

What's "locally" mean to you? I don't doubt that you're aware of local Martin dealers, but mentioning the town, or nearest big town if you're in a little one, might be helpful all the same. Not all dealers are equal and some shops have much better selections of new or used guitars than others. Somebody might know of something nearby that's worth a visit, even if it's not exactly local.

I think that the OM-21 is a terrific model -- not much to add to what's already been said. Look at the OM-28 as well, while you're at it (if you can) -- similar specs and sometimes easier to find (slightly more expensive too, but not by much).

[pdx]

I’ve generally found that I prefer the 21 special over the 21.

[Moocheng]

when anyone mentions Martin, most folks picture in their mind a Dread.

for me, its the humble OM21. Wonderful guitars

[mickthemiller]

Well Edward, OM21 it is then. However, I would humbly suggest you look at the Eastman OMs.