New Shootout - Martin HDC28, D-18, Gibson J-45

[Groberts]

New Audio Video Shootout - Martin HDC28, D-18, Gibson J-45

I hope I am not wearing out my welcome with another video comparison shootout. I always enjoy the collective feedback from my AGF friends and hope you enjoy them.

Yes I had to try the Martin HDC-28 again. Can't get it out of my head. Was thinking maybe I'm not playing the Gibson J-45 enough and maybe the Gibby doesn't quite measure up. Well, its just different ...and in a good way that is classic.

I made the comparison so I can sit back and listen more objectively. No dogs in the race. The strings are all Martin Authentic Lifespans. (all 3 guitars) The two Martins have the Authentic Lifespan 2.0 Med gauge strings and the Gibson J-45 has Authentic Lifespan 2.0 light gauge.

The HDC28 is 'brand new' and the strings need to warm up. The neck is dead straight and needs a little relief, so the B and E plain strings won't rattle against the frets with my typical attack. Just a quick tweak is all it needs. But I didn't have a truss rod wrench handy. Disclaimers aside, what do you think?

[noledog]

Hey Bro-hemian,

* I enjoy your vids so keep 'em comin', they are always consistent in quality and sound...best YouTube comparisons imo.

** Ok brotato chip I think your GAS pedal can't drive 55! Another guitar, whaaaat? Well cool beans on that! I like the looks of that HDC-28 and I think it sounds more wet and majestic then the 18, a little brighter and airy. However, I prefer the dryer, punchier tone of the warmer DC-18... both very nice tho!

*** I think the higher resonance factor of the HDC-28 may be something you may have to tame since you play these guitars mostly amplified. Whereas the 18 is so dialed in and easy for the stage in your situation... you always have that glorious 41 for pure guitar tone nirvana when your kickin' back at Gro-casa!

eric

[brencat]

Hi Gary. Once again, you managed to grab another good sounding HDC-28, but IMO the one you had before was a little better (less scooped midrange compared to this new one).

And...you sooooo belong in my “GAS and the Year in Review” thread. Now get in here!

https://www.acousticguitarforum.com/...d.php?t=533139

[llew]

I feel so much better about myself. I thought I was the only one who sold a guitar and then turned around and bought another one! As usual...great playing. They all sound good in your capable hands...thanks for sharing!

[Scolaguitar]

Always love your comparison videos. Anyone that's in the market for these guitars would find them incredibly helpful to get a feel for each model.

[Groberts]

Originally Posted by brencat

Hi Gary. Once again, you managed to grab another good sounding HDC-28, but IMO the one you had before was a little better (less scooped midrange compared to this new one).

And...you sooooo belong in my “GAS and the Year in Review” thread. Now get in here!

https://www.acousticguitarforum.com/...d.php?t=533139

You may be right Brendan. But I need to 'wake this one up' and play it for a bit. I also think the former Martin Lifespans were a bit bolder with a deeper low end. I have some sets to try still ,but I'm going to give this a reasonable test drive first.

[Groberts]

Originally Posted by Scolaguitar

Always love your comparison videos. Anyone that's in the market for these guitars would find them incredibly helpful to get a feel for each model.

Thanks Scola. I do it in comparison and contrast to get a feel for where each guitar lives. The J-45 pleasantly surprised me yesterday.

[SpruceTop]

I didn't hear the Gibson giving up anything to the Martins. They all sound nice!

[Groberts]

Originally Posted by SpruceTop

I didn't hear the Gibson giving up anything to the Martins. They all sound nice!

Exactly my point. I expected the J-45 would lag behind, but it holds its own with a classic voice and its super light (4lbs) so its a real pleasure to play. And it projects with ease too. I am still more of a "Martin-man", but the J-45 earns its well regarded reputation.

[vindibona1]

Great comparisons Gary!

I've never owned a Gibson but the J-45 was clearly my favorite. The HDC had a little too much somethin' going on in the overtones and the D-18 was drier and didn't exhibit those overtones. But the Gibson just stood out. I think I have to rethink my collection to include a J-45 or an SJ-200... or maybe a Dove.

[DanT]

Great video Gary, keep them coming. Love the comparaisons and playing.

[Triumph1050]

they all sounded great and I love playing Martins...but its the J45 for me.
Ill admit I may be a bit biased owning 3 of them.
Its just that Gibson tone that talks to me.

[Groberts]

Originally Posted by Triumph1050

they all sounded great and I love playing Martins...but its the J45 for me.
Ill admit I may be a bit biased owning 3 of them.
Its just that Gibson tone that talks to me.

I get it. and ironically I am considering selling the Gibson. I may very well be a Martin guy, long scale and the 1 3/4" nut width works better for me. But there are no dogs in the video I made.

[RILEY31]

I like the Gibson j-45 the best but they all sound great

[AcousticDreams]

Keep those shootouts coming... I won't get tired of you wonderful comparison videos. Very revealing. Thank You.

So which one do I like? I think you need to combine all three together. Wish that was possible eh?