Martin 000-15m: One Year Review!

#martinguitar #acousticguitar #acoustic ‪@martinguitar‬
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Welcome to this One Year Review of this beautiful Mahogany Martin Acoustic Guitar! I absolutely love it - what's your experience? Let us know!
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[@stevewalton4771]

I've owned a 000-15m for about 5 years. My favorite of all the guitars I have owned. I bought mine with no electronics. Just a wonderful instrument all around. Lightweight and crystal clear. Easy to play and simplest on the fingers. Nothing fancy, just a great guitar. I can use my old pick up which has always been perfect, or, just use a mic, either way, she sings like an expensive Martin. I took a tour of Martins shop a few years ago...these are everything, hand built...and that's no BS...Martin guitars...USA..ARE built by hand! Best sound over any other acoustic guitar.... Been playing since 1964...I love this guitar. I bought the 000-15M due to the size, looks and sound. (And the price!)

[@JoesMusicStudio]

Total agreement here. This guitar is the cat's pajamas. It's probably the best-balanced guitar I've played. I originally wanted a cutaway because that's what I'm used to. But a cutaway will attenuate the bass frequencies and they are needed in an 000 size. Rosewood and mahogany combination is simply timeless. Don't need onboard electronics, a good condenser microphone will produce, as you said, a fantastic sound for recording. This guitar begs to be played. It says sit on the couch, put me in your lap, and become as mellow as the sounds you will get out of me. The simplicity is timeless. No flash, no wizardry, no fancy inlays (although the neck inlays sure ain't bad), and the perfect weight. It really comes alive with lighter gauge strings. Very well done Jack, many thanks.

[@mindscramble8248]

What guage strings would you recommend regarding what you said about it coming to life with lighter guages?

[@kimseniorb]

000-15sm sounds even better

[@JoesMusicStudio]

They are the same guitar sound wise. Of course, there will be variations from one to another. I don't like artificially aged or relic instruments. They are completely unnatural. I want to put every dink and smudge in myself. That's honest wear and tear. I don't want some factory aging process that selects the areas (the wrong areas by the way). What good is it if someone pulls out a beaten-up old Fender or Martin relic, only to prove that he/she only knows three basic chords. When I pay thousands of dollars for an instrument, I don't want one that looks like it has been dragged behind a bus for 200 yards.@@kimseniorb

[@rpdrennen1]

I bought a 1995 000-15M on the used rack in guitar center 8 years ago. We became friends in the store on the first strum and it became my go to guitar for everyday playing. Originally came with monel strings in 95. Martin reintroduced the monel retro strings about 6 years ago and I put a set on. The magical tone was incredible with these strings. The guitar really pops when tuned down 1/2 step.

[@user-tu8to8co6g]

I’ve been playing martins for 40 years.. this is my favorite. I’ve had one for about 15 years. It’s the perfect songwriter guitar… helped my songs get on over 20 million records.

[@qinghai1]

😂🤣😂🤣

[@monkshillpottery]

I’ve had one for about 1 1/2 years. Love it to pieces.

[@NotEnoughRecords]

I've had a 000-15 for sixteen years and it's a fantastic guitar. Definitely sounds very dull when the strings are dead. It's always a bit of a shock how much more comes out when I change strings. But it always rings like a bell. Great guitars.

[@mainsblanches8793]

...that's a sign the the guitar is not that good!!...a very good guitar will sound about the same even with old strings, but without the little "sparkle" of new strings!!...just saying!!...

[@col145]

@@mainsblanches8793🙃

[@qinghai1]

@@mainsblanches8793I think he said dead strings. Not old. There’s a difference fuctard.

[@JT-gd7he]

Just before the pandemic, I decided I was going to buy a Martin for my 50th birthday. Played many sizes and models up to the 28 series. My favorite SOUND was the D-15m. That’s what I bought. I don’t regret it. About a month later I found a screaming deal on a 00-15m. I’m not a rich man, but after a basic setup from a qualified luthier, I have not found a need for another acoustic.

[@scottwyckoff5483]

Just purchased one from a private party, it’s about 5 years old? I love it and it has been played

[@Ones_Complement]

I have the 00 version. Absolutely in love with it. A finger picker's dream.

[@tgf5652]

I've had this model since December 2023 and it's just amazing and melts me like butter. The tone is incredible for me. Tempted to try out the Martin D15, its dreadnought brother.

[@Darrin67]

I have the Streetmaster 000-15 and absolutely LOVE it.

[@paulkline3011]

I had a D15M for 2 years and it never grew on my. I really tried to like it. I really did!!! But it just seemed muted. I tried every string known to man and nothing worked for me. I ended up selling it and bought a Yamaha FGX5. Solid Spruce top solid Mahogany back and sides. This guitar works for me. Phenomenal guitar. I played it next to a D18 and D28 and J45 among other heavy hitters. No comparison. Never thought I'd be a Yamaha guy but here we are. 😅

[@AlexW-wv4nt]

I loved my 000-15m, though I agree that in comparison to a spruce top guitar like the yamaha, it sounds muted- though I think that muted quality also brings a certain warmth that spruce tops don’t have. I think with a d-15m with the bigger dreadnought body, it might get a bit too muddy, but i think w the smaller 000 body it was perfect. It’s all subjective though- glad you’re enjoying the yamaha :)

[@cmoreno12345]

Happened to me too.

[@gjallen51]

I have this guitar and I would agree with your assessment. I have fallen away from playing but this instrument has brought me back to playing.😊

[@Impractical_Engineer]

I traded my D-15m for an 000-15m. Nearly as much volume as the D but without the uncomfortable D body. I really like how the top breaks up on big chords.

[@Lalairu]

One of my dream guitars. I have a Sigma replica with a cutaway, and I love it so much... can't imgine how the real thing could be. I love other Martin models like the 00028 or the D28/41, but this one has a special place in my heart. I hope I can get one of these someday, they are not easy to find used at a fair price where I live, and when I find them outside the shipping costs are too much.

[@timcotterill3952]

I bought mine three days ago, I’ve sent about 12 hours on it already. Love it to bits. Never thought I’d be able to afford a Martin, but here we are. I wet out looking for a guitar for open D, D minor, & E. Tried some Gibsons, some Matons, Taylors etc. Then Paul put the 000-15 in my hands. Sneaky little bugger had already tuned it to Open D. That first strum was just so Lush. Over the next interval of time, I picked, I strummed, I folked (don’t tell any one), I blused, I slid. Every thing I wanted to play sounded great. It was a doddle to play. Not one second’s worth of buyer regret. I’m told buyers regret is real thing… I don’t understand it personally… I mean sure you may not eat to fancy for a while, but dude, you’ve got a new guitar. And if you’re anything like me, a bunch of smaller meals, will mean a smaller me & that’s a good thing.❤🎉🎼🎸

[@rickthomas9278]

I own the D-15M, couldn't be happier. Love your playing, you really brought out the best in this fine guitar.

[@davidmurphy4844]

I bought mine twelve years ago. Paid upfront and it took five months to get into stock to my dealer in Wigan England. I love it. I had a Fishman humbucker soundhole pickup installed which works great for playing live. It is more mid focused than my other acoustics and if you dig In it sort of compresses. Great guitar!

[@SeanSullyy]

Wigan!! Shout out Tommy Aspinall the pride of Wigan

[@jimmythefish]

I played a streetmaster version of this today in a shop and was blown away. Very light, very loud, crisp and balanced. A great finger style guitar, effortless to pull volume out of it. I really don’t need another guitar but it had me thinking. I don’t like the road worn finish on them but wonder if it had anything to do with it.

[@antalantal2366]

I had a lovely D28 (dreadies are too bulky for me) and I am now a happy and satisfied owner of a 000-15 sunburst : the best acoustic I ever had.

[@djross2043]

I love mine. I had a 000 10e RS and noticed I kept grabbing it to play over other acoustics I have. So I finally decided to upgrade and sold the other. I’m glad I did.

[@patrickugolini2136]

I had a D-15 where the neck got smashed up and the body has a crack or 2. It was the best sounding acoustic I ever had with lots of sentimental value. I still refuse to throw it out even though it went out of commission over 10 years ago. I plan on sending it to Martin some day to have it restored or to the best condition they can do. Probably needs a new neck.

[@cmoreno12345]

Great video. Fun to listen to. 🎉

[@everennui1]

I've had mine a little over a year now, and I've really started to love the sound. It took a while, which I was expecting - since I was so used to spruce top dreadnought guitars. I love the look, too.

[@zizilazy]

I have this model too, and I fell in love with it right away. One of my favorite guitar.

[@nellatrab]

Like all guitars....the examples will be different, like you say some were dull some not...I played many before finding the one I bought...actually a 000-15M Streetmaster, which has a different and thinner finish than the regular 000-15M. Yes so true, it records better than any guitar I have, a few costing several K more!

[@guitarcams]

There great guitar's. It's the best thing ever when a guitar just fit's you in every way the tone the feel the look. Great demo Jack

[@kurtisloew108]

I have a D-16gt. absolutely love it! went to purchase a guitar with an open mind. Played guitars almost twice the price, and didnt come close to sound and feel of my Martin. Been looking at Taylors American dream line, but pulling the trigger on the 000-15M!

[@morganghetti]

Mahogany acoustics are my favorite. I have a MIA Breedlove mahogany guitar and have been looking around for a spruce top. Every time I go in the store I end up enjoying the mahogany tops the most.

[@ericcross5375]

I’ve had a 00-15 for 12 years and it’s my fav playing around the house and recording. My stage guitar is a 000-28.

[@johnoffutt898]

Beautiful timbre colours and flavors! I own the Martin 000-16 Streetmaster and 0-18 guitar's. I've been comparing the pre-owned to the new 000-15m. Pre-owned prices at guitar center range between 1,200.00 and 1,300.00. New is 1,499.00!! Be better off buying a new one.

[@RogerThat902]

Definitely my favorite. It's also the one when someone sees it they are drawn to that over the others. The only negative is if you are playing with someone else w/ a spruce top you're likely to drowned out. Otherwise, it would be the only acoustic I play hah

[@martyc4906]

My name is Martin. So I definitely “need” to get one. I like the idea of a great Martin that doesn’t break the bank.

[@calm2348]

You and I have similar tastes in gear. Glad to have found your channel recently, Jack. 👍🏻

[@KyleJohns-zk9kv]

I put lighter strings (silk & steel) on it for fingerpicking. Sounds good and is comfortable. I’ve adjusted the truss rod for lower action and like the action now. I’m a little torn as to whether to put a high grade pickup system in. Seems like I could sell it and get a good pickup system in a new guitar for less money than the upgrade, so I’m still not sure that it is a stage guitar; it may be just better as a guitar in the room or to mic up for recording.

[@nurikElles]

I have OOO 10e. Love it. As for me, there's almost no difference in sound between ooo 15 and ooo 10). Well, it's just my opinion. Simply when I was buying my OOO 10e, no OOO 15 was available 😁 And that's why I'm about to buy OOO 16 Streetmaster now. To get different tones from 2 same shaped guitars).

[@skyemoz6559]

I bought one for my daughter. I enjoy playing it and I have some much higher end guitars. We did compare with another at the store and there was a difference Great for alternate tunings. Really shines on fingerstyle playing

[@seanhenry4752]

I have a 2004 d-15m bought new and love it to death. I got this model but an older one and I think I got a bad one it didn’t hit like yours so I sold it .

[@austinmorgan9870]

Have one, by far the best guitar I have played. And own. For whatever that's worth. Great video.

[@flylippfantom8425]

Thanks for the review. I was wanting a OOO 15 m after watching a couple videos your video is one of them. I went to the Naples Florida guitar center and played a new one. I just got back. I have bought a few new guitars in my decades and know the setup is bad on new guitars for me. I only have one new guitar that i didn't have to setup. Different story. Anyway it was terrible in everyway and that really surprised me. I'm glad you like your guitar. ✌️💜 My African Mahogany ZAD50 CE dreadnought cutaway is far more superior. That's surprising being OOO 15 m is a Martin

[@deanroddey2881]

Mine is definitely my favorite, but it's the only acoustic I have. It might still be my favorite if I had some others of course, since it's really nice. It's a very woody, folksy sort of sound, definitely not for that glassy Taylor type thing so not for 80s Eagles covers or, as you say, a bluegrass gig. With some scoopy EQ, it can do some a really soft tones that can sit in behind a mix nicely. And it's super-light weight, I guess partly due to complete lack of bling.

[@dangrather1280]

I just bought one. Sounds great but hopefully a setup will help the playability. My Taylor guitars have been fine right out of the box. I heard somewhere that Martin guitars come with higher action?

[@Hollyrock712]

Getting mine in 2 weeks. Can’t wait !

[@gregmican]

I’m wanting the 000-15SM, I hear great things about it as well.

[@lynxbroadcast184]

Thanks Jack! I have the same and love it. I also agree that it’s fantastic to record with 👍

[@JackFossett]

It really is!

[@joshmartin4729]

I've got the 000-15MS and it is for sure my favorite guitar to play. I have three acoustics hanging on the wall that I grab to play. A Taylor 410CE, a Breedlove and my Martin. The Martin is the go to every time.

[@denmar355]

They can sound great. When buying a Martin, it’s not a bad idea to just go seek out a Martin verified repair tech. They will tell you what to expect. For instance, the probability of a neck set in your future. I’ve owned a large number of Martin acoustics. And it’s through those experiences that I say this. The smaller bodied shorter scale Martins are the most stable for sure. Also, many Martin repair techs build great guitars with the problems largely built out of them. I like the 000 and OM short scale Martins. Sweet tones.

[@hobiecat901]

Enjoyed the video Jack. I have two martins, an HD-28Vr from 1996 and a HD-28 vs 12 fret from 2012. Both are wonderful. Been wanting a 000.

[@lhvent]

I own an Alvarez AD66SHB Solid Top Mahogany Dreadnought that has such an open sound. I love the sound of an all Mahogany guitar.

[@wmrustycox]

I have the 000 15sm and absolutely love it !!!! Only difference is the SM is a "12 fret" with. a slotted headstock. You cannot beat a mahogany Martin guitar... and the 000 15 series is the best

[@JackFossett]

I actually have an out of production model thats very similar to yours, it's a 000-17sm. Same body and headstock, it just had an antique sunburst finish. It's also a great guitar.

[@aaronlarsen7447]

You're spot on. The 00015 is a huge hit.

[@8865jb]

I agree with the in store models sometimes lacking life. I have a 0000-28 custom Martin and I spend most of the time scared holding it. 😂 I need a 000-15 street master.

[@TommySG1]

Hi Jack, even though it’s not this guitar you own, I’m strongly considering the 000-15SM. That one also has the wider nut @ 1 3/4 along with the slotted headstock and most noticeably that one’s a 12 fret instead of the 14 like yours. This will be my second Martin and it’s completely different from my other one in just about every way. Not sure if you’ve demoed a 15SM but if you have I’ll look for it of course 🤙 Thanks for the video and breakdown Jack.

[@JackFossett]

Actually I also have a guitar almost identical - mine is the 000-17sm which they no longer make. Same body style, but it had an antique sunburst finish and its not all mahogany. Great guitar, I love them both.

[@Jam-m7m]

To me the difference’s between a full mahogany guitar and Sitka top mahogany top is that Sitka = a sweet honey sound and a full mahogany top sounds like a molasses warmer sweet sounding guitar

[@softsouthernknight]

I have a D-15M and the small body custom O-15M and I really like them both. My 0-15 is actually louder than my D-15.

[@isaiahcarpenter9551]

Lately I play my 000-15m more than my 000-28 and Hd28. Amazing guitar!!

[@michaeldarmody9919]

Yup. OOO-15M I feel same as you. Marvelous guitar. Use Monels but do you suggest other strings?

[@joenosia4480]

I would say the D-15/000-15M are the best martins out there under $3000. I love my D15m, and it's got a totally unique voice from my HD-28

[@ThomasDoubting5]

From what I can hear I'd have to agree on the sound , although spruce does round off over time I know mine has.

[@davidarnold6376]

You're not alone, best 000 ever made!

[@NicholasANappiNick]

Played one yesterday and preferred it over the J45❤❤❤❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@kevincrouch3956]

Mine too- love my 00015m- rarely play any of my other guitars now.

[@kevincrouch3956]

Actually I only have 'one' other guitar, but hey!

[@Southernguitar74]

I love the all mahogany. Guild USA makes a great hog guitar as well. Mahogany is my preferred wood for the sound of a great acoustic, aside from maple. I mostly play a J200 these days and it’s a sweet dream. But I digress…The 15 series and 18 series Martins are my favs in their lineup. All mahogany on the 15’s, and Sitka/mahogany on the 18’s. I’m not a rosewood fan, typically. Very nice guitar and playing, Jack!

[@powbobs]

I love my 0015M.

[@DrewHughesMusic]

Sounds so good. Great playing btw 👍

[@ryannoel8978]

Got same guitar all I need for acoustic

[@andrewstaward6878]

Hi jack great video thanks...I've had my 00015 M now for just over three year's and like a fine wine, she's aged with maturity...love her..acoustic wise i play nothing else..highly recommended

[@randyeckhoff3334]

I've played for 2 years. Have d28 .I always go back tooo15. My best sound comes from elixir strings. I believe ooo is all mahogany.

[@ldf399]

I went into a guitar shop with the intent to buy the 00-15 and A/B'd it to the 000-15 and was so impressed with it I ended up buying the 000-15. It has so much mojo in my opinion. Its just a fun, easy to play acoustic and gets the creativity out of me. Jack what strings do you use on yours?

[@ChromaticHarp]

I use LA Bella on mine

[@JackFossett]

I'm a big Elixir fan - lately on this I've been using Nanoweb 12s. Not the phosphor bronze ones, just regular.

[@SeanSullyy]

Informative video! Is this an appropriate guitar for a first guitar? Love the look and sound, unsure about the 25.5 scale length, if it’s okay for beginners.

[@teodelnorte]

Oh man, I had one too. Took a few months to open up but it was divine. I ended up selling it though as my fingers didn't agree with the narrow 43mm nut. I got a Furch D Blue MM to replace it, with a 45mm nut. The Furch is obviously inspired by the Martin all mahogany range. It is beautiful too but it's a different tone, somewhere between Martin and Taylor. Furch construction is superior too (much smaller shop). I considered the Martin 00015sm as it is a 45mm nut but here in Europe, they cost 2,000 euros or more, which is a lot, considering what else you can get. The Furch was half that and it is outstanding. I do miss that Martin though! Awesome you have had such a good experience with it Jack. Have you played the 00015sm?

[@amovementcreates833]

Surprisingly my Martin x series gpc holds up well to my 000-15. Sometimes one sound better than the other depending on what I’m doing. I will say though… my 000-15 doesn’t sound the greatest when strumming unless I’m doing strumming with my fingers.

[@stevenhinton2759]

I have the d 15 m i5 it's a great guitar

[@johnoffutt898]

Custom inlay in leitchfield, ky

[@ConradILIius]

I tried this model at my guitar store, it had that rich deep “American tobacco” sweetness to the tone. It sounded beautiful, your video reminded me off exactly that sound. And apparently it does record really well. I personally ended up getting a Yamaha fg5 as I found it played similarly in the low register but clearer throughout and saved a few bucks. Non the less, that guitar is the Martin I’d get

[@direfranchement]

You got a completely different type of guitar. Different top, different body size. They aren’t comparable.

[@andyeffron2802]

Hi Jack! Great review. What type of strings do you have on it?

[@JackFossett]

Elixirs!

[@andyeffron2802]

@@JackFossett Thanks! I have D'addario on mine but the Elixirs sound amazing. I already ordered some using your link.

[@StickA-yd4fp]

My low E sounds dead on mine. Almost palm muted. Put some light Daddarios on it, to see if it was the martin MA540T's. Guess I will have to take it in to get adjusted. Disappointing to spend that much money and not be lined out.

[@weldingrockandroll2197]

Had mine about a month, and i cant put it down!

[@mwpv11]

I own one too and its great. Ranks right up there with my Gibson Hummingbird and Songwriter. Any issues with weather on it?

[@JackFossett]

Not on this one - I did have humidity issues with my 0-18, but nothing serious, it just needs to be tended to closer than my other guitars.

[@eertje01]

So you once had the cheap knock off harley benton cla 15 m. Would be nice to compare that with the Martin to see how much they compare 😁

[@flylippfantom8425]

The person you bought it from probably have a setup with good strings🤔✌️💜🎸🎶

[@jairotorres4208]

What strings where you using in the video phosphor bronze or 80/20?

[@sarahgracebrooks2629]

Great! What are your strings and what is the action at the 12th fret? ty keep' um coming!

[@landoctor94]

I own a 000-15m. Love this guitar. Amazing sound and great playability. Just wish it were more durable. I find it scratches very easily.

[@direfranchement]

It’s probably the way you’re handling it. Handle it with loving care.

[@landoctor94]

@@direfranchement no, this guitar’s nitro finish is soft. I baby my guitars.

[@BobK5]

😎

[@JaymeSilverstein]

What kind of strings are used in this video?

[@stevenburton7922]

How does it compare to the harley benton cla 15m that you reviewed in the past?

[@tsega60]

Do you recommend the JJB Prestige 330 on this guitar (or any other similar all Mahogany acoustic)?

[@jaredcaldera]

An all mahogany guitar has never had so many overtones until now

[@dazdaz713]

How does the harley benton cla 15 compare ?

[@robertwaters2562]

What strings are you using on yours? Thanks.

[@paulbanner9612]

High e string to close to edge of fretboard or is it just me 🤔

[@johngraydon506]

I thoyght the 0-18 was the one Jack? Though both are great.

[@JackFossett]

The 3 acoustics I have that vie for “favorite” status are this one, the 0-18 and my 000-17sm. I could make a case for any!

[@danleyrold45]

You forgot to mention that you turned down half a step for this recording. That makes a big difference in the sound and the playability of a guitar.

[@Itsme-ni9jk]

I had a d15m... Needed neck reset after 1 yr...sent for warranty Came back over a 1/8th Under the bridge. There supposed to line up at the bridge. Wtf..NEVER EVER BUY A MARTIN COMPANY AGAIN....NEVER

[@ThePonDePon]

I've had mine for almost a year now, would sell my kidney before selling my martin

[@chongly6706]

Sounds good, but the way it looks is terrible

[@debajodelsuelo]

why?

[@flylippfantom8425]

I love a nice hog

[@kennethbransford820]

=== My Lowden is better. Sorry. ===

[@JackFossett]

Ok 🤷‍♂️

[@UserConn]

Mine came alive with XS strings