1974 Martin D-18s - The Best Dreadnaught Ever?!

Skip forward 15 minutes or so to avoid the rambling and just hear the tones.
The title is obviously tongue in cheek but I am honestly blown away by this guitar. Maybe it’s that I’ve heard so much negative talk about mid-seventies Martins that I had low expectations but this guitar is easily my favorite guitar I’ve ever owned dollar for dollar and I might prefer it to some of the other dreadnaughts I’ve had that cost 3x as much. This together with my 1956 Martin 0-18 (which I also love) puts my buying and selling empire into a bit of a conundrum.

[@Tyler_Wilson]

I’m glad I found your channel, Dave! I’m an avid buyer/seller of acoustic and electric instruments as well. I’ve only tried a few 70s Martins and I was a fan! I don’t understand why they’re seen as “bad” or not as sought after. The only issue I have is I prefer Adirondack spruce for pushing the volume a little louder for bluegrass music.

[@torsteinbacker-owe5648]

Good to know there are others with my problem..😊

[@bailey123198]

Enjoyed your rambling (made your story interesting) and playing. Looks like the 0-18 gotta go. Although both guitars seem unique in their own right. Nice to hear the "selling" helps support your family. 😊 If you buy some more guitars don't hesitate to post another video. Thanks!🎵🎙

[@brotherdavemusic406]

@@bailey123198 thank you!

[@jeffhildreth9244]

I have owned 5 Martin D18S models. I also owned a 1968 D-35 S.. Of the 100 plus guitars I have owned the best guitar I have owned was m the D-35S hands down. The real problem with the 70s Martins was many of the regular D-18 and D28 bridges were installed in the wrong place. My 1972 D-18 is possibly the best of the half dozen D-18 I have owned. I currently own 3 Martins to include a 2015 00-18V with highly figured Mahogany backs and sides.

[@brotherdavemusic406]

@@jeffhildreth9244 there was a D35s I was going to buy to compare the two. I love this size. Also a HD-28S I still might get.

[@cmakely60]

I have the same battle about guitars. I finally found an answer....I now own 0-18, 000-18 adi/sinker, D28MD !!!

[@brotherdavemusic406]

The whole modern deluxe line is on my list to try. I haven’t had any yet but I’ve heard great things them.

[@cmakely60]

My D28MD will be up for sale soon because it’s hurting my old arm and shoulder

[@RoyPortel]

It was under 2,500 dollars? Just keep it, man. The guitar obviously makes you happy and it (probably) isn't like you'd have to sell your house to keep it. I think it almost sounds like a 1960s Gibson J45. Gregory Alan Isakov style. Hang on to this guitar for maybe 10, 15 years more and you can always sell it then!

[@andorrasrevenge1683]

Needless fact, i think Zappa played one of those.

[@larrnew]

That thing is got some mojo….🤓