Martin D-28 vs D-35

johnnykf · January 11th, 2008, 08:01 AM

Just curious, other than cosmetics, what are the structural and tonal differences between the two?

uniphasian · January 11th, 2008, 10:51 AM

I gravitate more toward 28's.

The 35's I've played sounded a bit muddy on the bottom with less note separation.

But as always, there are standout boxes in each model. Your ears will tell you more than any of the words you get in reply.

imwjl · January 11th, 2008, 11:44 AM

Martin's site will list the specifics such as bracing type and size, wood differences and cosmetics. UMGF might have a TB or two of disk space used to debate the subject.

IMO HD-28s and D-35s have some looseness and shimmer from the bracing differences and HDs sound more punctuated or crisp in the bass and they _ALL_ sound nice. I've obviously played an HD the most because I have one, but have played the others too.

I suggest playing new and used copies and going from there. I say this because there are great values in used ones and because I thought I wanted a D-28 and ended up wanting an HD after playing all 3 discussed here. I hope that makes sense where you need to get what grabs you.

Make sure you try D-18s while you're at it too. Wow is one belonging to somebody I know just awesome, and after thinking I was a rosewood lover I find I can't stop playing my 00-18.

I just saw a Brazilian Larrivee D-60 listed for the price of a new D-35 on the Larrivee forum. I was so impressed with a D-60 EIR that I'd be all over that Brazilian if I were spending more than 2 grand on a dread.

Have fun with the shopping and the result!

RickG501 · January 11th, 2008, 12:16 PM

Same scalloped X Bracing on both. D-35 has a Boltoron binding on the neck, but no herringbone purfling like the HD-28. D-35 has a 3 piece back instead of 2.

IMO, D-35 has a tonally deeper base response so it doesn't sound as "tight" on the lower register, as a regular D-28. However, I feel the HD28's always seem to have a better base response than the regular D-28. YMMV This is very subjective, this is a personal observation without any basis in fact, JMO.
Of course, this impression is of brand new martins. Most used that are 5-6yrs old have "opened up" and sound a lot more open and articulate, usually. JMHO
When I bought I went to buy the D-35 (less money than the HD-28) but sounded as good, and wound up buying a used JC-40 (jumbo cutaway) that was 3yrs old but had an amazing feel and tone, and I loved it.

charlie cash · January 11th, 2008, 01:28 PM

Martin grades their tops (1 to 5) and specs an appropriate grade for each series. Theoretically, you get a better grade top on the more expensive guitars.

charlie cash · January 11th, 2008, 05:19 PM

Quote:

Martin Wood Grades; Martin Laminates
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here they are in a nutshell:

Generally applied wood grades

Sitka spruce tops have 8 grades based on tightness of grain, straightness, color, degree of quartersawing, silking, internal defects (such as sap pockets, occlusions, etc.) and overall cosmetic appearance:

No grade given – 16’s and below
Grade 1 / 2 – 18’s and 21’s
Grade 3 / 4 – 28’s and 35’s
Grade 5 / 6 – Herringbone, Vintage, and 40’s
Grade 7 – 41's and 42’s
Grade 8 – 45’s

Higher grades can be used on lower models on a discretionary basis depending upon availability.

Rosewood has 4 grades, based on factors such as grain tightness & straightness, color and cosmetics:

Grade 1 - 16's and 15's
Grade 2 - 20 and 30 series instruments
Grade 3 - Herringbone and Vintage 20 and 30 series instruments
Grade 4 - 40 series instruments

Non-figured Mahogany has 4 grades based on straightness of grain and other cosmetics:

Grade 1 - 15's
Grade 2 - 16's
Grade 3 - Standard 18's
Grade 4 - 18V's, GE's, and A's

Figured Mahogany has 2 grades based on amount of figure:

Grade 2 - lesser figure
Grade 4 - highly figured

Koa has 2 grades based on the amount of figure:

Grade 2 - 16's and 28's
Grade 4 - 40's style instruments

Note: Martin does not "tap-test" its wood or otherwise grade according to tone. The above grades reflect cosmetic characteristics only.

Martin Laminates

Martin's Mahogany laminates are quarter sliced Bigleaf Mahogany faces (outer plies) with a rotary sliced African mahogany core, and the Rosewood laminates are quarter sliced Indian rosewood faces with a rotary sliced African Mahogany core.

Many thanks to Linda Wallen-Davis (cfmwoodbuyer) of CFM&Co. for providing this info and to BareCat for consolidating it all so that I didn't have to do the work!!

Mac

Edited by: Mac Carter at: 3/19/07 7:39 pm

This is from the UMGF website and explains Martin's wood grading system and what models each grade is used on.

jjz28 · January 11th, 2008, 06:42 PM

My friend has a HD35 and I remember asking C.F. Martin IV, at a seminar here years ago what the difference was between a regular D35 and a HD. He said the HD's have a retro style bracing similar to the much sought after pre-war models, that give them a boomier bottom end like the pre-wars, for those who don't want to mortgage their house! He also made a very good point that the best violin could cost you $250,000. and the best piano as well, but the best guitar a few thousand....

blue metalflake · January 13th, 2008, 04:19 AM

I've no idea what the tonal differences would be on these. I've tried a D-28 in the past, and last year picked up a HD-40 of my own, but never tried a D-35.

To be honest the sound of either would probably blow me away, and it would need some serious back to back testing to sort them out. I'm not really sure that my ears could ever hear the nuances some people talk about.

If you're considering buying, the feel is probably a bigger criteria.

Califiddler · January 13th, 2008, 12:08 PM

The main structural difference between a D28 and a D35 is that the D28 has a two-piece back and the D35 has a three-piece back.

Neither the D28 nor the D35 has scalloped bracing. For scalloped bracing you have to go to the HD28 or HD35, or the D41 or D45.

Zebulon Bluze · January 13th, 2008, 07:48 PM

I own a D-35. I would describe the sound as what a broken in D-28 will sound like some day. The D-35 is slightly more bass heavy and resonant out of the box. The D-28 will get there in a few years of playing. One thing I like about my D-35 is the bound neck. When you don't have a bass player the D-35 stands out. I think the HD-28 appreciates in value more than the D-35.

the velvet catfish · January 14th, 2008, 01:14 AM

I have played some D16RGT's that sound just as good as
either the 28 or 35. Also played some 00016RGT's that
compared favorably to the Clapton model.

I'm not picky, I love them all.

JimiBryant · January 14th, 2008, 01:28 AM

I do like the HD series 'cuz I know I'll never own a real pre-war Martin but I sure like the style..

I've played some real humdingers as far as D-28s go, but the D-18 definitely should not be overlooked - I'd prefer either over a D-35 but THAT'S JUST ME and I'm not knockin' 'em cuz Martins are fine, fine guitars..

uhh.. the solid wood Martins, I mean.

my friend's wife bought him a D-28 a few years ago and it's just beginning to get good and broken-in! I love to play that one when I'm over at their place visiting Mark.

I surely wouldn't turn down an HD-35 if somebody wanted to give me one.

Sacdubro · February 1st, 2008, 08:55 PM

There is an additional spec difference in the D-35 other than the three piece back and binding. The Top Bracing is Non-Scalloped 1/4", and the D-28 has N-S 5/16". This allows the top to move easier and theoretically gives a bit more bass response.

ToneFan · February 4th, 2008, 12:53 PM

Both the Standard Series D-28 and Standard Series D-35 are straight-braced models, as opposed to the "Scalloped" bracing on the HD and Vintage series... On the bass scale, most D-35s will be bassier and more boomy than D-28s due to the thinner 1/4" bracing... The HDs and Vintage scalloped-braced models will, on the whole, be still bassier and more boomy than either the D-28 or 35...

To my ears, the D-28 is the more balanced sounding of all these Rosewood bodied guitars... I've played a D-28 for years, and find it's sound to be balanced across the board, without too much bass thump... I do some recording with the D-28, and it records well, without having to EQ a whole lot, and without having to roll-off the bass to keep it from sounding muddy...

Traditionally, the standard D-28 has often been the guitar of choice for Bluegrassers, Country Singers, and Folkies alike... Works for me...

Cheers,
Joe

Steffey · June 9th, 2008, 05:28 AM

I recently picked up a D-35 that sings and chimes like nobody's business -- truly a wonderful guitar. While I shopped, I looked at HD-28s, D-35s and a nice (but expensive!) HD-28V. In the end, the 35 spoke to me more, and I have had trouble putting it down since. They are very similar sounding instruments, however. I don't find my 35 to be bass-heavy or boomy in the least: it's perfectly balanced, low to high, and the mids are deep and clean. I'm mostly a rhythm player, and I find the 35 supports my vocals very, very well. I couldn't be happier about my choice. Plus, it's got a killer bear claw on it that helped to seal the deal.

Jakedog · June 9th, 2008, 10:21 PM

Here's what I know:

In the late 60's. Brazilian Rosewood was in short supply. In order to conserve, Martin started making D-28's with three piece backs, in order to incorporate Indian rosewood in tandem with the Brazilian. The three piece back was the result. Players noticed a more pronounced bass response due to the design change, some liked it, some didn't, but a good many people started seeking out 28's with three piece backs to get the heavier bass.

Shortly thereafter, Martin went to all Indian rosewood on production model standard D-28's, and went back to using a two piece back exclusively.

The three piece back became it's own model, the D-35. Main differences between the 35 and 28 are the neck binding, three piece back, and the fact that the 35 uses lighter bracing on the top, .25" bracing. This was added to increase treble response, NOT bass, in order to better balance the high strings with the heavier bass that comes with the three piece back design.

Neither the 28, nor the 35, utilize scalloped bracing. That feature is only found on 28's and 35's with the "HD" designation. the scalloped bracing on those models, along with the Herringbone body binding, is what seperates the models.

I'm a HUGE D-35 fan, not so much with the D-28. Conversely, I am huge fan of the HD-28, but not so much of the HD-35. They all do sound great, and there are standouts across all of these models. But geverally speaking, there are differences tonally that I prefer on the D-35, and HD-28.

One thing to keep in mind when trying Martins, make the dealer put new strings on, ones that YOU like, before you play it. All Martins IMO tend to sound dull, muddy, and clunky with older strings. Mine sounds absolutely fantastic with fresh strings, best guitar in the world to me. With a few hours on the strings, I don't even want to play it.

RickG501 · June 10th, 2008, 06:48 AM

"I'm a HUGE D-35 fan, not so much with the D-28. Conversely, I am huge fan of the HD-28, but not so much of the HD-35. They all do sound great, and there are standouts across all of these models. But geverally speaking, there are differences tonally that I prefer on the D-35, and HD-28."

Jakedog,
My sentiments EXACTLY.

You should give those Martin SP+ PB's test drive...I love 'em on my JC-40!

Steffey · June 11th, 2008, 10:33 PM

"I'm a HUGE D-35 fan..."

INDEEDY! I wouldn't put it any other way. Having never had the joy and honor of playing a D-28, and I can't say that I'm a fan or not, but I suspect that, once we get to this level of Martin, we begin to split hairs. My hair happens to be the D-35: Sophie the Bear. The three piece back is so beautiful. I love the simplicity of the sound board. I love, love, love the neck binding, and the ebony fret board is so fast and delicious! There's just not a whole lot to DIS-like about this guitar. Sing praises!

johnnykf · June 19th, 2008, 10:01 PM

How does bracing effect tone, projection and volume? For example Scalloped vs None Scalloped like the D28 and D35 vs the HD28 and HD35?

The 28's have 5/16th" braces while the 35's have 1/4th's

Some of them have a forward shifted scalloped X pattern, like the HD28V, D41 special etc.

Got my eye on an HD35 that has scalloped 1/4" bracing, opinions?

Steffey · July 5th, 2008, 10:16 PM

Johnny,

About the HD 35... It's odd that there are fewer numbers of these around than, say, the straight 35 (great goods!) or the HD 28. I haven't had the chance to try out the HD 35 but have read on the Unofficial Martin forum that they're even LOUDER than the other two, which are already pretry darned "present" to begin with. I'd be interested in hearing any other opinions on this.

eggman · November 8th, 2009, 02:54 AM

Howdy,

I've played two D-35s. One was a bit "boomy" and bordered on "muddy" to my ears, so I bought the D-28, which I played minutes later and liked. This was in May of 1997. Fast forward to just a month ago..
I played a lightly used D-35 at the same shop. It sounded very nice! This beauty had a pleasing balance of bass and slightly more treble than my D-28..but sounded a bit "bigger". One could hear plenty of volume, along with a tonal richness associated with Rosewood.
I'm planning to start saving for a used D-18V or plain-Jane D18. Should a nice sounding D-35 come along, I'd be tempted.

Eggman

loog · January 23rd, 2010, 09:29 AM

Useful thread.

Played a d28 last week and was blown away by the quality re: the playability, not sure that the sound was to my taste of what I am looking for (although it sounded gorgeous).

I know youtube videos are pretty much the worst medium to listen to guitar tone, but thought it would be useful for the thread.

personally i prefer the hd 35 over the hd 28v in these video
the consistency of the micing is nice, wish they had nonHD 28s/35s for comparison.

bradpdx · January 24th, 2010, 01:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by johnnykf

The 28's have 5/16th" braces while the 35's have 1/4th's

This gets really confusing with all the additional models Martin has added in recent years - the bracing is different on a D-28, HD-28, HD-28V, etc, etc. Too many variations to speak coherently about "D-28 bracing".

As a point of reference, the above quote is correct. The standard D-28 has 5/16" braces and the standard D-35 has 1/4" braces.

Martin did this way back in 1966 because they felt that the D-35 with it's 3-piece back needed different braces in order to sound right. As others have noted, the D-35 came into existence due to shortages in Brazilian rosewood.

While I play an HD-28 (which I adore), I nearly bought a D-35 when I was shopping for that guitar. I have played many D-35s that were exceptional guitars, more than D-28s. To me, standard D-35s have a better articulated top end than standard D-28s on average. I have seen several great fingerpickers use D-35s for that reason.

I think the D-35 gets short shrift, and they deserve a good look!

dadawads · January 24th, 2010, 02:39 AM

I have a 1980 HD28. It's a cannon of a guitar, and is unmatched as a solo instrument. It's a whole band all by itself. I can play all kinds of venues without micing it. I have never played a D35 I liked. Compared to a D28, they are thuddy and lifeless. There is a reason that D28s are considered the flagship of the Martin line. Do not get a D35!

television · January 24th, 2010, 03:04 AM

DadaWads wrote:

"I have a 1980 HD28. It's a cannon of a guitar, and is unmatched as a solo instrument. It's a whole band all by itself. I can play all kinds of venues without micing it. I have never played a D35 I liked. Compared to a D28, they are thuddy and lifeless. There is a reason that D28s are considered the flagship of the Martin line. Do not get a D35! "

I disagree. I've owned several Martins the last ten years: two d-35's, an Andy Griffith D-18, an HD-28, a D-18 GE, and an HD-28V. I primarily play electric guitar, so I tend to keep an acoustic for a while and then sell it because I have gas for an electric. I have to say that all of them have been really tremendous, however, my favorite of these was the D-18 GE...a truly great guitar. But my second choice is the D-35...I always find myself liking the D-35. The HD-28's are very loud full sounding guitars...but almost too much for me.

DadaWads, it may be you have never played a D-35 you liked...but to the original poster I would say that that is probably not a typical experience. So, to the original poster I say give the D-35 a chance...it may not be the one you choose...but I would certainly test drive one on your quest for the Martin for you.

Nodremark · January 24th, 2010, 06:34 AM

A Martin D-28 or a D-35, What a wonderful problem to have!

Tremolo7 · January 24th, 2010, 07:57 AM

I chose D28 and I'm very happy with it. Best acoustic that I've ever had!

Celticophilia · January 24th, 2010, 01:01 PM

Has anyone else had any "structural" issues with a D-35? The reason I ask, is that I owned one a dozen years back and I started having "belly" problems. The action was compromised, etc. A very reputable luthier in Charlotte, NC told me it was a common occurrence with the D-35s.

I believe the year model was around '87 or '88, and I realize that these structural issues may have been limited to a certain production era.

I agree with the posts in that the D-35 is bassier that the D-28 models overall. I too have owned both.

Ormond · January 24th, 2010, 03:54 PM

The scalloped bracing makes a huge difference. I have 3o year old D28 and I played a brand new D35 with the scall0pod bracing and the HD35 had much more sustain.
Go HD or Go Home!

Maximus.opto · January 25th, 2010, 07:38 AM

I think most people agree ultimately it is what sounds good to you, and for acoustics there is no way I'd buy a guitar without playing that actual one I'd be purchasing.

I personally think the scalloped bracing makes a notable difference, the tone sounds more opened up (I think the pre-wars had scalloped bracing). It isn't a difference of bad and good, but with a big purchase like this, I'd be pretty finicky about everything.

I like the HD-28 a more because it has a more balanced tone profile, as I personally don't need the extra low end power that the HD-35s seem to offer (not that is bad or anything). It plays everything, flatpicking, blues, fingerstyle, without difficulty for me.

On a side note, I remember playing Martin's Dave Matthews Signature DM3MD which was similar to the HD-35 with a three piece back. Nice guitar)

jukeboxfun · January 25th, 2010, 08:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zebulon Bluze

I own a D-35. I would describe the sound as what a broken in D-28 will sound like some day. The D-35 is slightly more bass heavy and resonant out of the box. The D-28 will get there in a few years of playing. One thing I like about my D-35 is the bound neck. When you don't have a bass player the D-35 stands out. I think the HD-28 appreciates in value more than the D-35.

I agree with this. I have a D-35 and my father in-law has a D-28. Both guitars sound great, so you can't go wrong.

doublee · January 25th, 2010, 11:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Celticophilia

Has anyone else had any "structural" issues with a D-35? The reason I ask, is that I owned one a dozen years back and I started having "belly" problems. The action was compromised, etc. A very reputable luthier in Charlotte, NC told me it was a common occurrence with the D-35s.

I believe the year model was around '87 or '88, and I realize that these structural issues may have been limited to a certain production era..

I have an '89 D35 thats never had any problem like that...

hekawi · January 25th, 2010, 06:03 PM

i'm currently saving up for a Martin (target date: October 2010). i was looking toward a D35...mostly because of the fancy 3 piece back and the neck binding. however, two weeks ago i was in a shop and picked up a D28 that was absolutely the best playing and sounding acoustic i have ever held in my hands. oh, to have $2,300 right then. i know that guitar probably isn't going to be there when i get the money together...but it changed my mind about 28's. sometimes simpler is better.

eggman · February 7th, 2010, 04:36 AM

Hekawi,

What I've learned about Martins (which is also the opnion of the guys at my local Martin dealer) is that they vary in terms of tone. My point is that some Martins still think they're trees! Save up and play as many Martins as possible, regardless of model desgnation.
I bought my D28 in 1997 by playing it alongside a D35 (too boomy, unlike the used model I sampled just 3 months ago.) a D18 (too thin, unlike one I recently test-drove!) and a D28, which sounded juuust right. Sorry for rambling. Enjoy the journey.

Eggman

PS: I adore my D28; it even makes me sound good. LOL.

January 11th, 2008, 08:01 AM	#1 (permalink)
johnnykf Tele-Holic Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Twin Peaks. NY Age: 54 Posts: 581	Martin D-28 vs D-35 Just curious, other than cosmetics, what are the structural and tonal differences between the two?

January 11th, 2008, 10:51 AM	#2 (permalink)
uniphasian Tele-Meister Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Denver, CO Age: 50 Posts: 179	I gravitate more toward 28's. The 35's I've played sounded a bit muddy on the bottom with less note separation. But as always, there are standout boxes in each model. Your ears will tell you more than any of the words you get in reply. __________________ - Uni

January 13th, 2008, 12:08 PM	#9 (permalink)
Califiddler Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: California Posts: 1,286	The main structural difference between a D28 and a D35 is that the D28 has a two-piece back and the D35 has a three-piece back. Neither the D28 nor the D35 has scalloped bracing. For scalloped bracing you have to go to the HD28 or HD35, or the D41 or D45. __________________ "In the fiddler's house, all are dancers."

January 13th, 2008, 07:48 PM	#10 (permalink)
Zebulon Bluze Tele-Meister Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Greater Chicagoland Metropolitan Area Age: 58 Posts: 137	I own a D-35. I would describe the sound as what a broken in D-28 will sound like some day. The D-35 is slightly more bass heavy and resonant out of the box. The D-28 will get there in a few years of playing. One thing I like about my D-35 is the bound neck. When you don't have a bass player the D-35 stands out. I think the HD-28 appreciates in value more than the D-35. __________________ If you see the light at the end of the tunnel it's probably a train coming directly at you.

January 14th, 2008, 01:14 AM	#11 (permalink)
the velvet catfish Tele-Meister Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Kansas Age: 39 Posts: 205 26 Photos	I have played some D16RGT's that sound just as good as either the 28 or 35. Also played some 00016RGT's that compared favorably to the Clapton model. I'm not picky, I love them all. __________________ "I might be powerfully concerned, but not scared."

January 11th, 2008, 11:44 AM	#3 (permalink)
imwjl Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Wisconsin, USA Posts: 1,950	Martin's site will list the specifics such as bracing type and size, wood differences and cosmetics. UMGF might have a TB or two of disk space used to debate the subject. IMO HD-28s and D-35s have some looseness and shimmer from the bracing differences and HDs sound more punctuated or crisp in the bass and they _ALL_ sound nice. I've obviously played an HD the most because I have one, but have played the others too. I suggest playing new and used copies and going from there. I say this because there are great values in used ones and because I thought I wanted a D-28 and ended up wanting an HD after playing all 3 discussed here. I hope that makes sense where you need to get what grabs you. Make sure you try D-18s while you're at it too. Wow is one belonging to somebody I know just awesome, and after thinking I was a rosewood lover I find I can't stop playing my 00-18. I just saw a Brazilian Larrivee D-60 listed for the price of a new D-35 on the Larrivee forum. I was so impressed with a D-60 EIR that I'd be all over that Brazilian if I were spending more than 2 grand on a dread. Have fun with the shopping and the result!

January 11th, 2008, 12:16 PM	#4 (permalink)
RickG501 Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Oklahoma City Age: 55 Posts: 1,346	Same scalloped X Bracing on both. D-35 has a Boltoron binding on the neck, but no herringbone purfling like the HD-28. D-35 has a 3 piece back instead of 2. IMO, D-35 has a tonally deeper base response so it doesn't sound as "tight" on the lower register, as a regular D-28. However, I feel the HD28's always seem to have a better base response than the regular D-28. YMMV This is very subjective, this is a personal observation without any basis in fact, JMO. Of course, this impression is of brand new martins. Most used that are 5-6yrs old have "opened up" and sound a lot more open and articulate, usually. JMHO When I bought I went to buy the D-35 (less money than the HD-28) but sounded as good, and wound up buying a used JC-40 (jumbo cutaway) that was 3yrs old but had an amazing feel and tone, and I loved it.

January 11th, 2008, 01:28 PM	#5 (permalink)
charlie cash Tele-Holic Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Western Colorado Posts: 535	Martin grades their tops (1 to 5) and specs an appropriate grade for each series. Theoretically, you get a better grade top on the more expensive guitars.

January 11th, 2008, 06:42 PM	#7 (permalink)
jjz28 Tele-Meister Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Ecum Secum Posts: 318 16 Photos	My friend has a HD35 and I remember asking C.F. Martin IV, at a seminar here years ago what the difference was between a regular D35 and a HD. He said the HD's have a retro style bracing similar to the much sought after pre-war models, that give them a boomier bottom end like the pre-wars, for those who don't want to mortgage their house! He also made a very good point that the best violin could cost you $250,000. and the best piano as well, but the best guitar a few thousand....

January 13th, 2008, 04:19 AM	#8 (permalink)
blue metalflake Friend of Leo's Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: ireland Age: 56 Posts: 2,781 10 Photos	I've no idea what the tonal differences would be on these. I've tried a D-28 in the past, and last year picked up a HD-40 of my own, but never tried a D-35. To be honest the sound of either would probably blow me away, and it would need some serious back to back testing to sort them out. I'm not really sure that my ears could ever hear the nuances some people talk about. If you're considering buying, the feel is probably a bigger criteria.

January 14th, 2008, 01:28 AM	#12 (permalink)
JimiBryant Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Chicago Chicago that toddlin' town Age: 47 Posts: 1,842	I do like the HD series 'cuz I know I'll never own a real pre-war Martin but I sure like the style.. I've played some real humdingers as far as D-28s go, but the D-18 definitely should not be overlooked - I'd prefer either over a D-35 but THAT'S JUST ME and I'm not knockin' 'em cuz Martins are fine, fine guitars.. uhh.. the solid wood Martins, I mean. my friend's wife bought him a D-28 a few years ago and it's just beginning to get good and broken-in! I love to play that one when I'm over at their place visiting Mark. I surely wouldn't turn down an HD-35 if somebody wanted to give me one. __________________ *we all shine on, like the moon and the stars and the sun.*

February 1st, 2008, 08:55 PM	#13 (permalink)
Sacdubro TDPRI Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Sacramento, Ca. Posts: 62	There is an additional spec difference in the D-35 other than the three piece back and binding. The Top Bracing is Non-Scalloped 1/4", and the D-28 has N-S 5/16". This allows the top to move easier and theoretically gives a bit more bass response.

February 4th, 2008, 12:53 PM	#14 (permalink)
ToneFan Tele-Meister Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: New York, NY Age: 45 Posts: 296 11 Photos	D-28 vs D-35... Both the Standard Series D-28 and Standard Series D-35 are straight-braced models, as opposed to the "Scalloped" bracing on the HD and Vintage series... On the bass scale, most D-35s will be bassier and more boomy than D-28s due to the thinner 1/4" bracing... The HDs and Vintage scalloped-braced models will, on the whole, be still bassier and more boomy than either the D-28 or 35... To my ears, the D-28 is the more balanced sounding of all these Rosewood bodied guitars... I've played a D-28 for years, and find it's sound to be balanced across the board, without too much bass thump... I do some recording with the D-28, and it records well, without having to EQ a whole lot, and without having to roll-off the bass to keep it from sounding muddy... Traditionally, the standard D-28 has often been the guitar of choice for Bluegrassers, Country Singers, and Folkies alike... Works for me... Cheers, Joe __________________ Visit my Web Page @ http://myspace.com/joemartin

June 9th, 2008, 05:28 AM	#15 (permalink)
Steffey TDPRI Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Shoreline, WA Age: 48 Posts: 27	I recently picked up a D-35 that sings and chimes like nobody's business -- truly a wonderful guitar. While I shopped, I looked at HD-28s, D-35s and a nice (but expensive!) HD-28V. In the end, the 35 spoke to me more, and I have had trouble putting it down since. They are very similar sounding instruments, however. I don't find my 35 to be bass-heavy or boomy in the least: it's perfectly balanced, low to high, and the mids are deep and clean. I'm mostly a rhythm player, and I find the 35 supports my vocals very, very well. I couldn't be happier about my choice. Plus, it's got a killer bear claw on it that helped to seal the deal.

June 9th, 2008, 10:21 PM	#16 (permalink)
Jakedog Friend of Leo's Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Cleveland,OH But my heart's still in TX Posts: 4,967	Here's what I know: In the late 60's. Brazilian Rosewood was in short supply. In order to conserve, Martin started making D-28's with three piece backs, in order to incorporate Indian rosewood in tandem with the Brazilian. The three piece back was the result. Players noticed a more pronounced bass response due to the design change, some liked it, some didn't, but a good many people started seeking out 28's with three piece backs to get the heavier bass. Shortly thereafter, Martin went to all Indian rosewood on production model standard D-28's, and went back to using a two piece back exclusively. The three piece back became it's own model, the D-35. Main differences between the 35 and 28 are the neck binding, three piece back, and the fact that the 35 uses lighter bracing on the top, .25" bracing. This was added to increase treble response, NOT bass, in order to better balance the high strings with the heavier bass that comes with the three piece back design. Neither the 28, nor the 35, utilize scalloped bracing. That feature is only found on 28's and 35's with the "HD" designation. the scalloped bracing on those models, along with the Herringbone body binding, is what seperates the models. I'm a HUGE D-35 fan, not so much with the D-28. Conversely, I am huge fan of the HD-28, but not so much of the HD-35. They all do sound great, and there are standouts across all of these models. But geverally speaking, there are differences tonally that I prefer on the D-35, and HD-28. One thing to keep in mind when trying Martins, make the dealer put new strings on, ones that YOU like, before you play it. All Martins IMO tend to sound dull, muddy, and clunky with older strings. Mine sounds absolutely fantastic with fresh strings, best guitar in the world to me. With a few hours on the strings, I don't even want to play it. __________________ It's not that I lack focus, it's just that I'm musically schizophrenic...

June 10th, 2008, 06:48 AM	#17 (permalink)
RickG501 Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Oklahoma City Age: 55 Posts: 1,346	"I'm a HUGE D-35 fan, not so much with the D-28. Conversely, I am huge fan of the HD-28, but not so much of the HD-35. They all do sound great, and there are standouts across all of these models. But geverally speaking, there are differences tonally that I prefer on the D-35, and HD-28." Jakedog, My sentiments EXACTLY. You should give those Martin SP+ PB's test drive...I love 'em on my JC-40!

June 11th, 2008, 10:33 PM	#18 (permalink)
Steffey TDPRI Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Shoreline, WA Age: 48 Posts: 27	"I'm a HUGE D-35 fan..." INDEEDY! I wouldn't put it any other way. Having never had the joy and honor of playing a D-28, and I can't say that I'm a fan or not, but I suspect that, once we get to this level of Martin, we begin to split hairs. My hair happens to be the D-35: Sophie the Bear. The three piece back is so beautiful. I love the simplicity of the sound board. I love, love, love the neck binding, and the ebony fret board is so fast and delicious! There's just not a whole lot to DIS-like about this guitar. Sing praises!

June 19th, 2008, 10:01 PM	#19 (permalink)
johnnykf Tele-Holic Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Twin Peaks. NY Age: 54 Posts: 581	Bracing Question How does bracing effect tone, projection and volume? For example Scalloped vs None Scalloped like the D28 and D35 vs the HD28 and HD35? The 28's have 5/16th" braces while the 35's have 1/4th's Some of them have a forward shifted scalloped X pattern, like the HD28V, D41 special etc. Got my eye on an HD35 that has scalloped 1/4" bracing, opinions?

July 5th, 2008, 10:16 PM	#20 (permalink)
Steffey TDPRI Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Shoreline, WA Age: 48 Posts: 27	Johnny, About the HD 35... It's odd that there are fewer numbers of these around than, say, the straight 35 (great goods!) or the HD 28. I haven't had the chance to try out the HD 35 but have read on the Unofficial Martin forum that they're even LOUDER than the other two, which are already pretry darned "present" to begin with. I'd be interested in hearing any other opinions on this.

November 8th, 2009, 02:54 AM	#21 (permalink)
eggman Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Bossier City,La. Posts: 1,719	Howdy, I've played two D-35s. One was a bit "boomy" and bordered on "muddy" to my ears, so I bought the D-28, which I played minutes later and liked. This was in May of 1997. Fast forward to just a month ago.. I played a lightly used D-35 at the same shop. It sounded very nice! This beauty had a pleasing balance of bass and slightly more treble than my D-28..but sounded a bit "bigger". One could hear plenty of volume, along with a tonal richness associated with Rosewood. I'm planning to start saving for a used D-18V or plain-Jane D18. Should a nice sounding D-35 come along, I'd be tempted. Eggman

January 23rd, 2010, 09:29 AM	#22 (permalink)
loog TDPRI Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: . Posts: 95	Useful thread. Played a d28 last week and was blown away by the quality re: the playability, not sure that the sound was to my taste of what I am looking for (although it sounded gorgeous). I know youtube videos are pretty much the worst medium to listen to guitar tone, but thought it would be useful for the thread. personally i prefer the hd 35 over the hd 28v in these video the consistency of the micing is nice, wish they had nonHD 28s/35s for comparison.

January 24th, 2010, 02:39 AM	#24 (permalink)
dadawads TDPRI Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Novato CA Age: 59 Posts: 43 3 Photos	I have a 1980 HD28. It's a cannon of a guitar, and is unmatched as a solo instrument. It's a whole band all by itself. I can play all kinds of venues without micing it. I have never played a D35 I liked. Compared to a D28, they are thuddy and lifeless. There is a reason that D28s are considered the flagship of the Martin line. Do not get a D35!

January 24th, 2010, 03:04 AM	#25 (permalink)
television TDPRI Member Join Date: Nov 2003 Posts: 89	Respectfully Disagree DadaWads wrote: "I have a 1980 HD28. It's a cannon of a guitar, and is unmatched as a solo instrument. It's a whole band all by itself. I can play all kinds of venues without micing it. I have never played a D35 I liked. Compared to a D28, they are thuddy and lifeless. There is a reason that D28s are considered the flagship of the Martin line. Do not get a D35! " I disagree. I've owned several Martins the last ten years: two d-35's, an Andy Griffith D-18, an HD-28, a D-18 GE, and an HD-28V. I primarily play electric guitar, so I tend to keep an acoustic for a while and then sell it because I have gas for an electric. I have to say that all of them have been really tremendous, however, my favorite of these was the D-18 GE...a truly great guitar. But my second choice is the D-35...I always find myself liking the D-35. The HD-28's are very loud full sounding guitars...but almost too much for me. DadaWads, it may be you have never played a D-35 you liked...but to the original poster I would say that that is probably not a typical experience. So, to the original poster I say give the D-35 a chance...it may not be the one you choose...but I would certainly test drive one on your quest for the Martin for you.

January 24th, 2010, 06:34 AM	#26 (permalink)
Nodremark TDPRI Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Austell, GA. Age: 57 Posts: 83	A Martin D-28 or a D-35, What a wonderful problem to have! __________________ "But the one in the middle looks just like Willie Nelson".

January 24th, 2010, 07:57 AM	#27 (permalink)
Tremolo7 Tele-Meister Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Northern Europe Posts: 109	I chose D28 and I'm very happy with it. Best acoustic that I've ever had!

IMPORTANT:Treat everyone here with respect, no matter how difficult! No sex, drug, political, religion or hate discussion permitted here.

January 24th, 2010, 01:01 PM	#28 (permalink)
Celticophilia TDPRI Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Buffalo, NY Age: 57 Posts: 63	Has anyone else had any "structural" issues with a D-35? The reason I ask, is that I owned one a dozen years back and I started having "belly" problems. The action was compromised, etc. A very reputable luthier in Charlotte, NC told me it was a common occurrence with the D-35s. I believe the year model was around '87 or '88, and I realize that these structural issues may have been limited to a certain production era. I agree with the posts in that the D-35 is bassier that the D-28 models overall. I too have owned both. __________________ "Lean your body forward slightly to support the guitar against your chest, for the poetry of the music should resound in your heart". - Andres Segovia www.edharrismusic.com

January 24th, 2010, 03:54 PM	#29 (permalink)
Ormond Tele-Holic Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: san bernardino Age: 59 Posts: 765	The scalloped bracing makes a huge difference. I have 3o year old D28 and I played a brand new D35 with the scall0pod bracing and the HD35 had much more sustain. Go HD or Go Home!

January 25th, 2010, 07:38 AM	#30 (permalink)
Maximus.opto TDPRI Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: San Francisco Posts: 80	I think most people agree ultimately it is what sounds good to you, and for acoustics there is no way I'd buy a guitar without playing that actual one I'd be purchasing. I personally think the scalloped bracing makes a notable difference, the tone sounds more opened up (I think the pre-wars had scalloped bracing). It isn't a difference of bad and good, but with a big purchase like this, I'd be pretty finicky about everything. I like the HD-28 a more because it has a more balanced tone profile, as I personally don't need the extra low end power that the HD-35s seem to offer (not that is bad or anything). It plays everything, flatpicking, blues, fingerstyle, without difficulty for me. On a side note, I remember playing Martin's Dave Matthews Signature DM3MD which was similar to the HD-35 with a three piece back. Nice guitar)

January 25th, 2010, 06:03 PM	#33 (permalink)
hekawi Friend of Leo's Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: greenville, sc Posts: 2,741	i'm currently saving up for a Martin (target date: October 2010). i was looking toward a D35...mostly because of the fancy 3 piece back and the neck binding. however, two weeks ago i was in a shop and picked up a D28 that was absolutely the best playing and sounding acoustic i have ever held in my hands. oh, to have $2,300 right then. i know that guitar probably isn't going to be there when i get the money together...but it changed my mind about 28's. sometimes simpler is better. __________________ ____________________________________________ "Rule Number One: Obey All Rules" - Barney Fife

February 7th, 2010, 04:36 AM	#34 (permalink)
eggman Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Bossier City,La. Posts: 1,719	Hekawi, What I've learned about Martins (which is also the opnion of the guys at my local Martin dealer) is that they vary in terms of tone. My point is that some Martins still think they're trees! Save up and play as many Martins as possible, regardless of model desgnation. I bought my D28 in 1997 by playing it alongside a D35 (too boomy, unlike the used model I sampled just 3 months ago.) a D18 (too thin, unlike one I recently test-drove!) and a D28, which sounded juuust right. Sorry for rambling. Enjoy the journey. Eggman PS: I adore my D28; it even makes me sound good. LOL.