Hear Big Sound from a Small Guitar - The Martin Dreadnought Junior

The craftsmanship and attention to detail, paired with the unmistakable sound ensure that you will not want to set this guitar down.
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Buying Story
Guitar players are always on the lookout for an opportunity to expand upon their guitar collection. I was looking for a new acoustic guitar on a budget. I could not spend more than a thousand dollars.
That said, purchasing a guitar is purchasing something special, and at a $600 price point, you have a lot of really good options available to you. A piece of advice, because this is going to be used quite a bit, whatever you choose has to be something that you love. So spend the time researching and playing as many acoustic guitars you can get your hands on before making your decision.
If this is your first time buying an acoustic guitar, going into a guitar store for the first time it can be intimidating. There are so many options!
The Martin Dreadnought Junior jumped to the top of my list quickly after playing a few guitars I had in mind, from doing my own research, going into the store. It was easier to hold it was a bit smaller than the full size acoustics I was playing, and to me, without a significantly noticeable difference in the fullness of the sound projected by the guitar.
What I also noticed that was special about the Martin guitar brand is the craftsmanship involved in production. The Martin Dreadnought Junior is extremely well put together, and for me, it is really satisfying to appreciate the time and effort that Martin devoted to the finer details.
Overall, for me, the Martin Dreadnought Junior was the best option I found in terms of sound and playability at a max price point of $1000. And I was actually pleasantly surprised that the cost of this acoustic guitar actually came in under my budget at $600.
This is the complete package for a price point. I use it around campfire, or for when I am chilling out on the patio. I do play it quite often out of my Fender acoustic amp (here: • Plugging In and Fallin... ), which allows me to play a little louder.
Shop this and similar products at Guitar Center: go.whybuyglb.com/LYTKhhvt

[@mjolnircarlssen4211]

The thing about these “Travel Guitars” are that they quickly become our “Primary Guitars”. They sound, play, and feel great. As I’ve gotten older, the 23.5” scale length feels better, and much easier to play.

[@WhyBuy]

Couldn't agree more, it's easy to pick up and go, it feels great and sounds fantastic. Thanks for watching 👍

[@DG-mv6zw]

My old friend just bought me one once I'd finished my surgery and chemotherapy. Almost worth having testicular cancer. Love this guitar, and it'll always remain special for me...for obvious reasons.

[@WhyBuy]

Sorry to hear about your situation, and that's very nice of your friend to gift this guitar. Good on you for seeing the bright side, this Martin definitely brings joy and a smile. All the best on your recovery, and thank you for sharing a bit of your story 👍

[@markmax2023]

The new ones come equipped with Retro monel strings, sound it rich n well rounded!! Now i really want one!!

[@lisabingham6741]

Thanks great review just got my new Martin it’s amazing I love it

[@WhyBuy]

Thank you for the compliment Lisa, and that's awesome to hear about the new Martin! Congrats!

[@birgitmitchell5873]

I bought the sunburst Djr just last month. Love, love, love it. Such a beautiful instrument.

[@WhyBuy]

Congrats! Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching 👍

[@josephtitus8519]

hey bro...best video ever...thank you....my mind is made up...its about time

[@unplayedrecords]

Really good, solid review. Thanks!

[@WhyBuy]

Thanks unplayed records!

[@markmax2023]

Thanks dude Awesome vid! Couldn't agree more,I want one bad, I'm droolin' !!

[@darrellswampkev]

Pull the trigger!

[@SteveEdinger]

A set of retro Martin Monel strings makes it even more amazing!

[@M5guitar1]

agree that Martin Monels are fantastic.

[@cliffordyawn2696]

Brass is better on an acoustic

[@byronwheeler4210]

I just bought one. Thanks for the confirmation. I went back and forth with a Taylor and a Guild. I paid $499.00 at Sweetwater.

[@WhyBuy]

That's awesome, congrats! Good price too, Canada is a little more expensive with the exchange rate.

[@dwsnsgp]

It is made in Mexico but the Martin quality control and ability of the workers is Amazing. I bought mine without actually playing one and it came down to Martin or Taylor gs mini.

[@darrellswampkev]

Better made in Mexico than China any day!

[@BaktaBak3]

@NotMyName Thought the same thing. Martin dred jr had nicer sound to my ears.

[@schism6976]

People think just because it's made in Mexico the quality drops. Companies maintain standards no matter the location.

[@dwsnsgp]

Did most of my shopping on line and could not find a dreadnought junior around to even try out. Came down to Martin DrJr or a Taylor gs mini. I think I made the right choice but had to order from Michigan because nobody in the west had one.

[@stefhen71]

you have a perfect background over there. It will really inspire you to play music

[@WhyBuy]

Thanks for the feedback! And definitely, it's quite the spot to get inspired. Thanks for watching 👍

[@FCain-mf4tf]

You made a REALLY GREAT REVIEW!! Your delivery and the way you desrcibe the guitar was GREAT. When you spoke I believe that what you say you truly mean. THAT IS WHAT A GOOD REVIEW IS BUD!! We dont see people review guitars that way and it is very rare. DAM GOOD JOB! #SeenFromTEXAS

[@WhyBuy]

Thank you Garrett Cain!

[@PaulIsbell]

I want one of these for travel to the beach or mountains for songwriting on the go. This would be perfect as a carry on item on flights and easy to take up mountain trips for writing on the whim

[@WhyBuy]

Absolutely, it's small but the sound is still rich and the tone is deep for such a small body. You will certainly enjoy it. Good luck! Thanks for watching!

[@rapstarr174]

I'm so excited to buy this guitar damn I'm just a beginner 🔰

[@harveyward8625]

This is the one to get if you can get hold of one as they don’t appear often for good reason The newer version sounds a little less rich in sound

[@stanrubin9409]

Great review, thanks.

[@WhyBuy]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@BaktaBak3]

Good choice. Have one & love it. Bought it when it first came out. Play it all the time . I keep Martin medium acoustic strings on it. Enjoy your new AX ! :-)

[@ps-bi2sr]

I'm surprised the small body supports medium strings....and the neck is ok?

[@BaktaBak3]

@@ps-bi2sr Yes, neck is fine. My dred Jr. came with medium strings, like them, so that's what I stuck with. You can use lighter strings if you want and it will still sound nice.

[@geraldharper364]

Nicely done... I think you have convinced me thanks

[@WhyBuy]

Happy to help and great to hear the feedback. Still playing this Martin today, awesome grab and go guitar to have on hand. Thanks for watching 👍

[@bernardoarcevalencia]

Misha! Saludos de Cabo!! This is Bernie hope you remember me. Totally stumbled upon your video while researching small guitars and I was like, wait a sec that looks like... yeah it is Misha! Haha huge hug my friend hope your bro’s are well also! Keep up the reviews, here goes my like and subscribe if it helps. Good playing btw and cool idea for a channel.

[@JohnnyRebKy]

I bought a baby Taylor for my daughter and I ended up playing it all the time 😂. It was just so easy to grab and play while lounging in the recliner. It burned in a house fire a couple years ago and now I’m wanting another small guitar. I’m a Martin guy and have a HD28 so I’ll prob love this little JR guitar

[@WhyBuy]

Thank you for sharing your story, and sorry to hear about the house fire. The GS Mini is a great guitar also, hard to pick between the two in all fairness. Playing back to back, for the play style I have, the Martin simply had a nicer warm, and deeper bass tone that was surprising in such a small body. Thanks for watching!

[@Offy-official-real]

Both are great guitars. The difference for me was the more comfortable nut width on the Martin. The solid wood was a bonus.

[@AfzalKhan-un9jk]

Good review bro... 😍😍

[@biscuitninja]

Thank you! I have an 0ME Cherry and been looking for a travel smaller guitar.

[@WhyBuy]

You're welcome!

[@Oldman808]

I bought one from my grandson, and liked it so much I bought another for myself.

[@WhyBuy]

Awesome to hear, thanks for the feedback! Hope you both enjoy! and thanks for watching 👍

[@Bobswann6723]

Thankyou...great review

[@WhyBuy]

Thank you for the feedback 👍

[@capohd28]

I own three other full size Martins of different models and vintages. I originally bought a DJR 10 as a guitar I could leave at work for lunchtime playing and for travelling, but has become my most played guitar due to it's comfort. It doesn't have the sound of my other guitars, but is pretty good for a small guitar, far better sound than other similar guitars I tried including Taylor. I am able to play it for hours in comfort. I also was able to improve the sound by installing a bone saddle and Authentic 2.0 PB strings. I wasn't a big fan of the Retro strings that were on it. The build quality is excellent. Great addition to my collection of Martins.

[@WhyBuy]

That's awesome! I did something similar, but I quickly realized the lack of humidity in my office when I left it sitting out overnight :/ Yeah, I swapped the strings out pretty quick, tried the acoustic Elixir's, not so bad. Thanks for the feedback capohd28!

[@capohd28]

@@WhyBuy One thing related to this is this guitar should be more resistant to low humidity. The richlite fingerboard and bridge shouldn't shrink like ebony, there is more reinforcement under the neck extension and the smaller body should be less prone to cracking. This is one reason this guitar gets played more than the others. I don't worry about keeping it in its case in my dry house so is always ready to play. It's lower value is part of that thinking as well.

[@WhyBuy]

@@capohd28 Absolutely, old habits die hard I suppose. It only took one case of neglect in the past to be a constant reminder! Haha, but yes, it is a great daily. Thanks again for providing insight and feedback!

[@garylesperance2572]

I couldn’t agree with you more. I got an entry level Martin DM part of their Road Series 18 years ago. Spent around $700.00. Hey, it’s a Martin! Sounds even Better now!

[@WhyBuy]

Hey Gary, thank you for the feedback! Great to hear after so much time you are still enjoying! Martin's are certainly great bang for the buck and have a great heritage. Thanks for watching!

[@muhammadrifkiali2030]

is that all solid body?

[@WhyBuy]

@@muhammadrifkiali2030 No, it's multi piece

[@billr2375]

I love that it has 1 3/4" nut width---for me at least easier to finger pick and not bunch up fingers extra tight. Now there is a 000 Jr that just came out. Thanks for the review, to the point, no hype, overdone playing or selling.

[@gtr1952]

I have a GS Mini and that's why I don't like playing it at gigs, I think the scale on the Martin is 1" longer also, or close to that. Plays and sounds better. --gary '

[@capohd28]

Yeah, I've always had the 1 11/16" necks until I got a reimagined D-41 not long ago. Took awhile to get used to it after decades of playing a thinner neck, but once I got used to it, I barely notice the difference now, and didn't hesitate getting the DJR 10 as a utility guitar with that wide neck.

[@MrFrogman54]

Down to earth review, it’s on my short list.

[@WhyBuy]

Appreciate the feedback 👍 Thanks for watching

[@Frank-in-NY]

Good insight on why you purchased this Martin. I very interested in this D Jr. because of the size. I'm looking for a great sounding small bodied guitar, that would be good for couch strumming and the likes. I still have to save a bit more to get it. I hope it works for me.

[@WhyBuy]

Thank you fcizin for the comment! Definitely, the rich sound that comes from this small body is very impressive. Save your $'s, it's worth the wait!

[@PaulvanHuet]

fcizin It’s not only good for the couch.

[@gtr1952]

Thanks for the good review. I have a GS Mini I leave by the couch at home. I wanted to use it for a few tunes at a gig, but it just doesn't quite work, and I don't want to leave one from my collection at the gig all night. In 50 years of doing that I've lost a couple! It's sounding like the little Martin may be a better fit. First time I heard one plugged in, sounds good! As I understand they are all solid wood, seems a good value for that also! Thanks again! --gary

[@WhyBuy]

You are welcome gary, thank you for the feedback! It is a terrific guitar, especially for the money. Hopefully you get a chance to pick one up.

[@capohd28]

I tried both, and the DJR 10 is definitely a better sounding guitar. The GS mini was way to bright for my ears.

[@reeseinny]

Great review. What other guitars did you consider and why did you pick the Martin Jr.?

[@alann5003]

I wish I bought a jr. years ago since it is discontinued. I have a d-10jr.(shallower body) It sounds good but I bet the old one sounds better.

[@ploterman5]

Hey man, great vid! Which strings do you think are best for this guitar? Light? Medium? I usually like the elixir nano web but 12. Or 13.?

[@WhyBuy]

Hey Miguel, thanks for the feedback. Strings are definitely up to you depending on play style. I usually play in D or C, but that can have a big affect on the set up and action if not adjusted properly. In the video, I believe these are 12's tuned in E, drop D. I agree with the nano web elixirs, great strings, good value.

[@imannonymous7707]

Its a quality guitar that can still be taken out of the house on a friday night, to sit down at the park or your back yard. Its an entry level to martin. If you own 1 , congrats

[@WhyBuy]

Thanks for sharing your feedback, and definitely, if you are looking to explore Martin guitars it's the best place to start from a cost perspective. All things considered, it's a great guitar. Thanks for watching 👍

[@sagutxo82]

Nice review, thanks. I’m looking for a reduced body/scale guitar and I think this is the one for me, but I can’t try it. How about playability? This is very important for me (I’m not a good player at all). How are the action out of the box? It needs a luthier?

[@WhyBuy]

Thanks for the feedback! To answer your question, yes it is very easy to play right out of the box. Even over time, the materials and set up hold up very well with very little maintenance. Action will hold up and you could even let it sit out of case without humidifier. Go for it!

[@crazycatlady.]

What are the pieces you been playing?! Where do I find them?! Great guitar! Love the street master dreadnought junior! Went for that and no regret!

[@WhyBuy]

Thank you for the feedback! Regarding the riffs and melodies, just playing random stuff that I made up, sorry nothing to reference. Glad to hear you are enjoying the Martin, thanks for watching!

[@shaunbucklaschuk1639]

Great video, thanks for posting. Quick question; what’re the tunes you’re playing/what would you call this style?I’m just starting to learn fingerpicking and whatever you’re playing here sounds amazing. Any info to point me in the right direction would be awesome.

[@WhyBuy]

Thanks for the compliment Shaun. The style is entirely made up, but to help give some direction, check out Zakk Wylde (book of shadows album)

[@shaunbucklaschuk1639]

@@WhyBuy Will do. Plucking that drop d on that guitar really hits the spot. Much more bottom end than I’d expect to hear from something that size. Because of your review, this guitar is on my “must try and likely end up buying” list. Thanks again!

[@nbacoco]

Hi Sir nice review! Do you think that the bridge pin holes are standard size like from all Martin? Because i plan to buy Graptech bridge pins, and not sure if traditonal or presentation style will fit the pin holes... 🤔

[@WhyBuy]

Thanks for the feedback, i would double check, but I think its . 215" diameter at the factory. worst case the pins are too thick and they stick out a bit.

[@nbacoco]

@@WhyBuy thank u , will just have to try i guess 😉

[@yhanbondoc18449]

Is it 36'?

[@M5guitar1]

I was thinking Taylor mini Koa, but now...hmm, I'd better do more research and play one of these Martins.

[@adonaimorales3560]

M5guitar1 i haven’t played a nicer guitar for the price. I’ve play thousand dollar taylors and Martins that don’t compare to the koa. Im in the market for one soon 😀

[@nbacoco]

I have the same model DJr10e , and may I ask if you have loose wiring inside the body as well Im wondering if its like that for all? Its just kinda bothering me when shaking the guitar and i hear it dangling😀

[@WhyBuy]

Noticed this also, however wasn't bothering. You could always tape it? Still, Would be nice if the factory addressed it before shipping out.

[@nbacoco]

@@WhyBuy thanks!

[@timothydurbin9597]

I've been trying to see if anyone has taken the jr. out on gigs? Once plugged in can it hold up to the band.

[@topdazzle]

I bought mine for that very reason Tim and yes, once it’s plugged in, it will definitely hold its own with a band as the PA / amp provides the volume, not the guitar itself. I’ll be gigging with mine regularly in a 6 piece punk band. I’ll be playing it at a festival in Poland in July in front of 6,000 people and another the following night to 3,500. It will be the only guitar I’ll be taking with me on the trip. If I were playing an unplugged acoustic set in the corner of a bar, my Martin DSS-17 has it easily beat for volume, tone and projection but that’s a full size dread and 3x the price! Plugged in, there would be no difference between them both as both have Fishman under-saddle piezo pickups installed. Hope this helps - it’s a lovely guitar!!

[@sermiaow6213]

Hey, nice review. And I am a non-native speaker. I wanna buy a DJR as my first guitar, then I saw DJR-10, an update version to the DJR. I'm really confused now. What's the difference? Should I wait the DJR-10 come into the market? In my country, I can only find DJR now.

[@WhyBuy]

Thanks Ser Miaow! As far as we can tell, the DJR-10 Burst offers a new finish. If you are looking for a different style than the one seen in the WhyBuy video, your should check it out for sure!

[@ianmorales7757]

Wait for the DJR-10e! It is an updated version of the DJR-2, and it's got a slightly slimmer body, and updated construction. It's going to be an overall better guitar. I'd wait if I were you

[@WhyBuy]

@@ianmorales7757 Thank you Ian!

[@peetyw8851]

I went with the OOOJr10 for its many good features and the cutout option. ‘put a new Martin nut on it that comes slightly higher - maybe 1/32” - which does make a difference in allowing easier playing with a slide. VERY happy!

[@michaeleggleston4737]

Didn't catch the scale length and nut width of this guitar, very interested though...

[@WhyBuy]

Not 100% sure, but for what it's worth spacing feels very similar to a full size. Will have to check the internet for more accuracy, thanks for watching.

[@DarkKnight_4805]

Is it good for someone with small hands/short fingers?

[@WhyBuy]

The fretboard spacing is reduced from a full dreadnaught, 15/16” , so to answer your question, probably. Hope this helps!

[@cliffordyawn2696]

Best acoustic I ever heard was an Ibanez

[@WhyBuy]

Which one?

[@FarIce-m4k]

Is the action of martin jr high?

[@WhyBuy]

It comes set, but it also depends on the shop its stored at. Humidity, tension could play a factor too. Just adjust the truss rod if it's out. Hope this helps!

[@nicolen.9642]

Mike Ignacio I tried the mahogany version of the Junior. It was OK just a little bit high but it can be fixed 🤗

[@capohd28]

Truss rod was loose when I got my DRJ 10. Setting the correct relief (about .004") put the action at .095" which is low Martin spec (perfect action for me). There was also lots of room on the saddle for adjustment as well. That being said, action can vary from guitar to guitar. But as with all guitars, a final setup should be done. Most guitar companies leave room for adjustment which usually means slightly high from the factory.

[@dwsnsgp]

I bought one and the workmanship is impeccable until I tried to play it. The frets are too low and unforgiving at .030” in addition there was damage under the B string that had just been left in the first fret and ground out but undressed in the next six. I complained to Martin but got no answer. I will not buy another Martin and have one to sell real cheap.

[@WhyBuy]

That's too bad Dennis, but thanks for the feedback. Quality control is something I've always appreciated about Martin, it's a shame to hear about yours. I would try reaching out to them again, it's odd they didn't even reply.

[@dwsnsgp]

Don’t buy. I got one with defective work and complained to deaf ears.

[@alfrescodimieary6580]

People that can’t play talk

[@WhyBuy]

Thanks alfresco! But we still appreciate you input 👍

[@alfrescodimieary6580]

@@WhyBuy Just an observation friend. In general reviews Are well received from people that actually have expertise. Versus I guess not having expertise

[@IRequireMedication]

@@alfrescodimieary6580 So that's why your momma don't talk. I prefer her expertise elsewhere anyways

[@vincentlussier8264]

I don't like the sound of it at all. It has a flat response, muffled sounding and no sustain! For around the same price Yamaha build some nicer sounding acoustics and Recoding King are no slouches either!

[@WhyBuy]

I'm inclined to agree that the sound can be muffled but, after adjusting the action and putting some lighter gauge strings on, it did fix the issue. I suppose it's subjective to the player, but it's a fair point. It's still my favourite small body acoustic, and for the price, excellent in build quality. We appreciate the feedback, and thanks for watching 👍

[@RjBenjamin353]

I don’t think so! Martin sucks. Buy a Taylor GS mini-E instead people.

[@WhyBuy]

Why? Thanks for sharing input, and thanks for watching!

[@IRequireMedication]

@@WhyBuy Because the simpleton has one and doesn't want to feel like he's inferior (in yet another department)