Guess I've gotta thing for J-15's

Roundbout · #1 03-24-2024, 11:26 AM

Have owned a Gibson J15 for a couple of years and couldn't be happier with it. Recently however I've been searching for an all mahogany guitar, preferably a Martin 15 series. Came across a killer deal on the one pictured and low and behold, it's also a J15!

The guitar was made in 2007 and it's in excellent condition. Put on a new set of strings gave it a quick setup, it plays and sounds great. Once again couldn't be happier.

Zissou Intern · #2 03-24-2024, 12:35 PM

The big question is: Where will you put the J15 tattoo?

LAPlayer · #3 03-24-2024, 01:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zissou Intern

The big question is: Where will you put the J15 tattoo?

On the neck block....... where it belongs (on a Martin).

Roundbout · #4 03-24-2024, 01:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zissou Intern

The big question is: Where will you put the J15 tattoo?

If it was to go anywhere near my waistline a J40 would have been a more "fitting" choice.

Zissou Intern · #5 03-25-2024, 11:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Roundbout

If it was to go anywhere near my waistline a J40 would have been a more "fitting" choice.

As long as there's room for either J15 on your lap, you're good!

Lillis · #6 03-26-2024, 01:27 AM

You got me thinking darn you! I did a little research and that seems like a really cool guitar. Might be a little large for my shoulders though.

zombywoof · #7 03-26-2024, 05:33 AM

One of the few Bozeman-made Gibsons I am still kicking myself for not having jumped on when I had the chance was one of the 2013 short runs of Banner LG1s. These were copied from an original 1942 guitar when they were all- mahogany and X braced.

catdaddy · #8 03-26-2024, 06:46 AM

Congrats! 2007 was a good year for a Martin J-15. I know because I also have one. One of the true overlooked treasures in Martin's past.

Roundbout · #9 03-26-2024, 08:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by catdaddy

Congrats! 2007 was a good year for a Martin J-15. I know because I also have one. One of the true overlooked treasures in Martin's past.

Agreed CD, I'm really digging this thing. Just curious what strings you prefer on your J15? I put a set of XT pb lights on it and it sounds good but wondering what to try next.

catdaddy · #10 03-26-2024, 02:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Roundbout

Agreed CD, I'm really digging this thing. Just curious what strings you prefer on your J15? I put a set of XT pb lights on it and it sounds good but wondering what to try next.

Glad that you're enjoying your Martin J-15! I love the deep, rich tonal quality and I'm always a little surprised by how sweet a sound it can produce.

As for strings, I've been really happy with John Pearse PB (12s). I once tried 13s but found that the heavier gauge strings seemed far less responsive on that guitar, almost seemed to choke the sound. I use Martin Retros on a couple of my other guitars, but I've never gotten around to trying them on the J-15. I know there are quite a few folks on the forum that like them on their 15 series Martins. Might be worth a try.