Collings 001mh vs. Martin 00-17 Authentic 1931?

Blake Reeves · #1 06-30-2022, 05:57 PM

Has anyone played both of these two fantastic all-hog 00 12-fretters? Which did you prefer?

Very similar in design, and each has received lots of praise.

cc132 · #2 06-30-2022, 06:12 PM

I haven't played these two particular models, but I went on a big hunt earlier this year for a high-end acoustic. I assumed I'd end up with something like a Collings or a Santa Cruz, or a luthier-built instrument. I played lots of guitars, but as soon as I played my first Authentic, I was sold. I have no regrets. They are truly stellar instruments.

hifivic · #3 07-01-2022, 12:53 AM

Welcome to AGF Blake. I own the Martin and I have owned several Collings though have never heard the 001MH. My educated guess is that they will not sound even remotely close to each other.

Blake Reeves · #4 07-01-2022, 09:19 AM

Thanks for the warm welcome hifivic.

I have the 00-17 Authentic and I love it so far.

There's also a used Collings 001mh online, but I can't try it before buying, and there's aren't any near me to try. It's certainly sounds great in the recordings I've heard. Listened to Mark Goldenberg last night on the beautiful Goldenberg/Skye Artifact album. Very tasty.

Seems silly buying a 001mh when I already have the 00-17 Authentic, with it's VTS top, bracing and bridge plate. But is buying another guitar one doesn't need ever really that silly?

My ears are starting to like the Collings tone, and I have a D1T coming Tuesday. But the Collings I've heard online that have really intrigued me have been 00 12-fretters.

hifivic · #5 07-01-2022, 10:31 AM

With the D1T coming your way I would pass on the 00-1mh. You made a great choice going with the traditional, enjoy!

Blake Reeves · #6 07-02-2022, 08:02 AM

You're probably right, but playing a 01mh at Gryphon yesterday didn't help.

hifivic · #7 07-02-2022, 09:09 AM

you're in trouble!

brencat · #8 07-02-2022, 09:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hifivic

With the D1T coming your way I would pass on the 00-1mh. You made a great choice going with the traditional, enjoy!

I would also pass on the smaller bodied guitar with a dread on the way from the same builder. Give it a few months and make sure you like the voicing first, especially if your ears are tuned to the Martin vintage voice. I had a 2 year affair with Collings years ago, followed by another 6 month fling with a D2HTS last year. Didn’t last. That brighter, modern voicing isn’t for me. I will always prefer the bluegrassy Martin tone.