Sneak Preview of My Summer NAMM Martin Reviews
This supplemental video was shot just after I recorded the new D-28 for One Man’s Guitar’s exclusive review – which will be the first one published
The following audio was mixed quickly and synched to video on a tablet at the hotel last night, and the video was put together on the bus back to NYC this afternoon.
The mix and synch of the actual video will likely be somewhat different.
While at the Martin Guitar Factory, it was my hope to not just test drive the newly made-over D-28, but to do do a direct comparison with the previous version, which remained virtually unchanged for 30+ years. And that did come to pass.
The two guitars were recorded back and forth in one continuous session. I just picked up one and played the first thing that came off my fingertips and then tried to repeat it on the other one, after placing the first on the same guitar stand. That is why the guitars are sometimes shifted toward the large diaphragm mic, as I kept turning that way to switch the D-28s.
In addition to some cosmetic upgrades, the real game changer is the top bracing, which has been moved to the “Forward Shifted” position, while retaining its non-scalloped shaping. This is the first time forward-shifted non-scalloped bracing as appeared on a cataloged Martin guitar, let alone a D-28.
The full review should be out in two or three days.
The thumbnail for the video was supposed to be of the 2017 model. I expect Youtube will change it eventually.
Thank you Spoon for your continued amazing demos of guitars. This one is no exception. I truly appreciate your slightly changed in partial tunes which brings this 2017 D28 to express a full range of tones, quality, & playability. Keep up your outstanding descriptions & demos. I played the 2017 D28 & was very surprised, impressed, & pleased with Martin’s improvements. I’m delighted with your 2018 HD28 demo. ‘Eager to read your review when it comes.
Very well-done! Your recording clearly & transparently conveys the tonal differences. Hats off to Spoon!