Martin D-28 Authentic 1937

A mainstay of the Martin range, the 14 fret D28 has been in production since 1934, and whilst they have gone through many different iterations over the years, in 2005, the Authentic series was born, to build the most authentic instruments from Martin’s golden era.

Perhaps the most revered vintage D-28s are the ones created in 1937 with forward-shifted hand-scalloped X-bracing, an Adirondack spruce top, and a 1 3/4″ neck width. Whilst the original 1937 models were made with Brazilian Rosewood, this is no longer possible, so this model is made with Guatemalan rosewood back and sides – arguably the most similar to Brazilian, and actually preferred by some. It includes some subtle spec refinements to make it even more faithful to the original. One of the major updates to this latest version is a more accurate body profile based on dreadnoughts from the 1930s and 40s.

As on an original 1937 D-28, the guitar has an Adirondack spruce top, which Martin treated with its VTS (Vintage Tone System) process to accelerate the aging process. The D-28 Authentic 1937 is built using hide-glue construction; scalloped, forward-shifted X-bracing; and a genuine mahogany neck with a non-adjustable reinforcement. Additionally to the top, The VTS is employed to age the  braces, which captures the tone from the 1930s era. By doing so, Martin’s craftspeople can recreate the pleasing visual aesthetics of a vintage guitar and reproduce the particular tones previously reserved for vintage instruments.

The neck, modelled on the shape of Martin’s reference 1937 D-28, is quite chunky. Measuring 1¾ inches at the nut, the neck has a fairly deep, rounded profile that gradually gets a little thicker toward the heel. 

Sound is immediately pleasing, with a lovely bottom end that remains tight and controllable, with rich trebles. But more playing will reveal more of the depth of the guitar, with gorgeous overtones and a great balance. 

Overall, this is a extremely high quality replica of an instrument that would be many times out of most peoples budget. Some time may be needed to adjust to such a authentic version of a near 90 year old instrument, but the time spent will be a great investment to get everything that this instrument has to offer.

Supplied with a high quality hard case.