Time to just get a D-18?

[phydaux]

I've only read the first page or so, but

IMO the only time it's NOT time to get a D-18 is when it's time to get a 000-18.

Seriously, if you're looking for people to talk you out of buying a D-18 then you have REALLY come to the wrong place.

Lost your job? Better buy a D-18.

Car trouble? Time to buy a D-18.

Best friend's wedding? You should probably buy YOURSELF a D-18.

[davidd]

A D18 alternative is the late 1980's-early 1990's D16M. A poor man's D18V. The first attempt to go back to pre-war bracing. I have a 1990 D16 that is the bees knees...

[Mr. Jelly]

I like to say that a Martin D-18 is the only guitar a person needs. It can work well playing any kind of music.

[llew]

Originally Posted by Mr. Jelly

I like to say that a Martin D-18 is the only guitar a person needs. It can work well playing any kind of music.

Truth! All the threads regarding having only one guitar...the D-18 in some form would most likely be it.

[Scolaguitar]

Originally Posted by Borderdon

I’ve had an 18 series Martin for years now, and very occasionally I’ll catch myself
thinking about another guitar, until I go to a shop and play something else, so far I’ve always kept my money in my pocket, gone home and happily played mine.
Many other stellar guitars out there, but a good D-18 is one fine guitar.

That’s been my experience as well.

[VoidBringer]

For two years I played a $300 epiphone acoustic dreadnought toying with the idea of becoming a more serious acoustic player. That time passed and I got much better, so I took the plunge.

I walked into the Martin dealer expecting to get a D28, but I walked out with a D18, after several visits and spending multiple hours A/B testing. Budget was not an issue. I wanted something that sounded sweet to my ears and played well. I was really surprised about the D18. I did not consider it, in all my research, that it would be something I would like.

I narrowed it down to a D28 authentic 37, an HD28, a D18 Modern Deluxe, and a standard D18.

The D18 just stuck with me. It was not really on my radar, but it sounded better and felt better than the others. I was disappointed in the Modern Deluxe because I loved the neck and the appointments, but the sound just wasn't in the pocket for me. That standard D18 stole my heart. It ended up being the cheapest of the bunch. Martin, please stop outcompeting yourself!

My final thought was if I got any other guitar, I would want that D18 still. Well, that's no way to live. Check my signature here for how it turned out.

[Charmed Life Picks]

I was just telling a buddy of mine today, who's one heckuva picker, that when I was a young man I loved the brashness and boldness of rosewood. However, starting about ten years ago I began to prefer the balance and subtlety of mahogany. I don't think one can go wrong with either a D-28 or a D-18. There's a reason they've been icons for close to a century now.

scott memmer

[jspe]

A D18 in the hand is worth 2(000 000) in the bush...

[Rad]

Played guitar for about 50 yrs off and on. I’ve purchased over 30 guitars in that time. I did not bite the bullet and buy a D-18 until last year. It is the best playing and sounding acoustic I’ve ever owned.

[HillTone]

Given the rate of inflation and how the prices of these guitars just seem to increase, I might argue that buying a d18 new at 0% financing is a sound investment.

Of course, much better to play a bunch in person and pay in cash for one you like. Better to assume you’ll never sell. I hate selling guitars. I’ve also never regretted buying a guitar..there are a few regret not buying though.

In any case, get a D18. They’re awesome. The jump from a 1k acoustic to a 2-3k is enormous I think, and it is hard to beat the tone to value ratio of a d18. Yamaha makes great instruments, but I’d rather play their pianos than guitars.

[SalFromChatham]

I just read the thread title. I did not read the OP’s post or any replies.

The answer is yes.

[Wellington]

Originally Posted by SalFromChatham

I just read the thread title. I did not read the OP’s post or any replies.

The answer is yes.

Thats the best lol

They have become super expensive in Canada, $3400 last time I checked I think. Mind you, all guitars have jumped a lot.

[Scolaguitar]

Delete, almost duplicate answer months later. I guess my answer didn't change.

[Wardo]

I got a D18 in 2012 and it has been a great all round guitar. I also have an HD28V and an HD35CS. All of them are great but from a utilitarian perspective the 18 is the most effective. And these guitars hold their value; I could sell any one of them for more than what I paid.

[budglo]

I’d say if it won’t create a long term financial hardship, go for it . I wandered in intermediate priced guitars forever. My first dip into the Martin was a 90s D1 . I finally bought a 2013 D18 and haven’t looked back. I even heavily considered the D18 GE, but thought the Standard suited my purposes more. Great all purpose guitar that shines whether it’s bluegrass or folky stuff.