Martin HD-28

The Martin HD-28 has been one of Martin’s great classics for decades. With the redesigned version introduced in 2018, this time-honored model was updated in several key details to more closely align with historic Martin dreadnoughts. These include, in particular, the scalloped forward-shifted X-bracing, the 44.5 mm nut width, and the modified low oval neck profile with a high-performance taper.

The Martin HD-28 offered here was built in 2021. In terms of sound, it delivers exactly the big, powerful character for which this model is known. Powerful, deep bass tones blend with clear highs and a rich spectrum of overtones. Thanks to the scalloped and forward-shifted X-bracing, the top responds beautifully, giving the guitar plenty of volume, dynamics, and resonance.

The classic combination of a Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood for the back and sides delivers a broad and balanced tonal spectrum. The HD-28 has a powerful foundation, beautiful brilliance, and excellent projection. It works superbly for powerful strumming and flatpicking, but responds just as beautifully to a more dynamic and nuanced playing style.

Visually, the HD-28 also features numerous traditional Martin elements. The striking Bold Herringbone, the Tortoise pickguard, and the Diamonds and Squares Long Pattern fretboard inlays give it its unmistakable classic character. The open-back nickel tuners with butterbean buttons beautifully round out the traditional look.

The guitar is in very good condition. It has been treated with great care and shows only very few isolated signs of wear. The frets also show only slight signs of wear and are in very good condition. Overall, this is a very well-maintained HD-28 with excellent playability.

We carefully set up every guitar. We adjust the neck radius and string action to ensure that the guitar plays cleanly, comfortably, and without buzzing across the entire fretboard.

The string action is 2.7 mm on the low E string and 2.1 mm on the high e string, measured at the 12th fret.

Specifications:

Model: Martin HD-28
Year of construction: 2021
Serial number: 2505153
Body shape: Dreadnought, 14-fret
Saddle width: 44.5 mm
Scale length: 645 mm
Top: Sitka spruce
Back and Sides: East Indian Rosewood
Neck: Select Hardwood
Neck Profile: Modified Low Oval with High Performance Taper
Fingerboard: Ebony
Bridge: Ebony
Bracing: Scalloped Forward-Shifted X-Bracing, 5/16″
Fingerboard Inlays: Diamonds and Squares Long Pattern
Purfling: Bold Herringbone
Machine heads: Nickel Open Gear with butterbean knobs
Case: Original Martin case