Martin vs Taylor - Which Brand is Better ?

[@fabriciobenatti8714]

✨ You don’t need to choose the best guitar … you just to choose the one you like the most ! ( both Taylor and Martin are just GREAT ! ) ✨

[@toddcwalker4208]

Well said ! Thanks for watching.

[@DonaldRoycroft-sm3rp]

Yes, interesting, however a local Luthier, tells me he has had many Taylor's that All problems with their pick/up's, never had That issue with a Martin, go figure...😮

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@DonaldRoycroft-sm3rp I am not a fan of the Taylor pickup systems. Thanks for watching.

[@Larry_Mott]

If i have to choose i pick Martin. All Taylors i have heard live have a somewhat "clinical" for lack of better word - sound. My choice is Yamaha.

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@Larry_Mott It's been quite amazing how many players have said Yamaha is their first choice. Merry Christmas !

[@billsovitsky121]

I lean Martin. One thing I didn’t hear you mention is that both companies offer tours of their factories. I’ve been to both and it’s a great experience to see how these instruments are produced. Thanks Todd very informative.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Hi Bill ! I have had some nice comments about our conversation.

[@NickMcC]

Great point! I'd love to see both.

[@ontogeny6474]

Last time I went shopping for a guitar I just happened upon a Seagull S-6. For some reason it was parked along side with all the Martins, sort of out of place I thought. Anyway, I strummed a few chords and had to buy it. Way less expensive than the neighboring Martins and yet to my ear sounded sweeter. It's now my go-to choice in studio requiring very little (if any) EQ. You're right about the personal (subjective) nature of guitar choice. I liken it to a cat in the way they choose us people-- sometimes a guitar picks you and not the other way around. Thanks for a great video and hopefully you had a nice lunch afterward. :D

[@toddcwalker4208]

Yes, food did the trick. I own a Seagull S-6 as well in faded denim. It is one of my favorite guitars. Thanks for watching.

[@robertparsons5295]

I own 1 Martin and 2 Taylors. Both are magnificent.

[@wrightwrjr]

I have owned several guitars. Blueridge, (which is underrated by the way), Epiphone, Gibson, Taylor 214 dlx and I currently own a Yamaha, (also underrated), and a Martin 000-18. I have played many more including the really expensive Martins and Taylors. My favorite guitar I have ever played is the one I always pick up and that's the 000-18 by Martin. I don't know if you've ever played one, but if you haven't you need to. I absolutely love it and in my opinion it is the best sounding and playing guitar I have ever experienced. Good review.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for watching. I've owned three or four Blueridge guitars...still own an OM that is one of my go-to guitars. I haven't had the opportunity to play a Martin OOO-18.

[@gpasc]

What this one have to the best plz?

[@Last_one_before_I_go]

I've owned too many guitars, but it's because I've gotten good deals on them. Lowden, Breedlove (the early ones from the 90's to 2000's.) are among those. They are awesome guitars. I've played a buddys D-28 and just wasn't as impressed as I thought I'd be. Happy to give it back...quickly. About a year back I found someone getting rid of a 2006 Taylor 414-LTD in Walnut. It sounded great, but still needed love, which I gave it plenty. I've ended up with a guitar that plays wonderfully, beats the Lowden in tone and is set up for amplification. Taylors are well engineered. Martins have Mindshare with players, but it takes laying down serious $ to get one to my standards (like a D-42 and 45). In the meantime I'll pick up my Taylor and get my fix for the evening.

[@DonaldRoycroft-sm3rp]

@@Last_one_before_I_go yes,fair enough too

[@williamickes4648]

Great analysis and great comments right through to the end, thank you. I bought an entry level Martin DM about 12 years ago as motivation to practice, and it has worked pretty well so far. That said, the Taylors sound mighty fine too. Guess my folky country bluegrass side keeps me heading to Nazareth whenever I can, but good on the folks out west for giving us this choice!

[@toddcwalker4208]

Modern acoustic guitar building has definitely given us many options. The problem is that there are so many good guitars and so little money to buy them all. 🙂 Thanks for watching.

[@CameraLaw]

Thanks for your thoughts. I always expect commenters to favor Martin, and I join them in this comparison, but the 717 is surely a close second. Gorgeous. I own one of each, but they are as different as night and day. I’d call my Taylor 614ce jazzy with clear note definition. The Martin 000-15SM is new but sounds vintage 30s, a Dust Bowl Woody Guthrie vibe. My favorite is always the one I just played.

[@toddcwalker4208]

So true about the 'one just played'. Thanks for watching.

[@KenGlasser]

Nice job Todd. I think what you said at the end is the most important for picking a guitar. Make sure it fits your body (is comfortable to play) and that you like how it sounds. If you don't like playing your guitar or it doesn't sound good (to you) you won't play it much. I will say this about Taylors - when I was first introduced to them I couldn't believe how low the action was. I imagine that Taylor spent a lot of time figuring out how to do that (and not have buzz and the other disadvantages of low strings). The guitar I owned at that point and the guitars I played in the 1960s & 1970s - well it seemed that getting the guitar comfortable to play wasn't high on the light of priorities. My current Martin D-28 is from 2013. It's fine to play but it's not like playing the Taylors I've tried out. On the other hand I find the D-28 sound more balanced. It's all in the ear of the beholder.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks Ken !

[@scouser2230]

I have all my life, and I am now 75, played Martins because all of my acoustic guitar heroes played Martins. When I started playing Taylor was not even in existence. I have nothing against Taylor’s guitars, I think they sound great, but at this stage I have no need for another guitar.

[@toddcwalker4208]

As a 74 year old, quickly approaching 75, I agree about our guitar heroes. The 1969 Martin D-28 I sold back in the 1970's is the one that I allowed to get away. Thanks for watching.

[@kenwells8203]

I had a beautiful blonde 1976 Alvarez for 39 Years before it was stolen from my church office. I loved it. I replaced it with a Taylor 310e that is beautiful, and sounds great. It is clean, crisp, balanced, and plays wonderfully.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Bummer that the Alvarez was stolen. Hopefully it will reappear.

[@tworoaddogs]

I walked into Guitar Center with a pocketful of money and a lifelong dream of owning a Martin…..then my eyes caught a Taylor’s 414ce special edition on the wall. I pulled it down, played it and walked out the door with it. No regrets!

[@toddcwalker4208]

Enjoy that Taylor ! Thanks for watching.

[@tobiasdog100]

Similarly, I went in for the Martin HD-28 and tried a Taylor 814-CE...went back and forth for a long time and finally decided on the Martin. Actually could've flipped a coin, but since I already own several Taylors, (I have a 214-CE and the 814-CE felt and sounded a bit similar) so I went with the Martin because I don't have one.

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@tobiasdog100 Nice combination of guitars ! Thanks for watching.

[@kodybryantmusic7357]

This is what I did too! 2016, and just bought a Martin today, D10E 🎉

[@hollowbodymusic]

I own both and much prefer the rich deep tone of my Martin

[@jameswilliford5478]

Great video! Thanks for posting. Best guitar is a subjective thing and hopefully no one is so narrow minded that they claim one as best...it's actually only best in their opinion, which may or may not be shared by others. That being said I started on workhorse budget Yamahas and moved to higher end Yamahas and loved them until I got a nice Taylor. I now have three Taylors and they were my favorite players...until I recently bought my first Martin. I had tried a few Martins in local guitar shops and wasn't really impressed, but when I was getting gear gas again I started researching and found a budget Martin on line that was on sale at a really good price. I decided to give it a try thinking if I don't really like it I'll just return it. I'm glad I did...the budget Martin is now my favorite. To me it feels, sounds and plays better than my Taylor that was more than twice the price. I still like my Taylors, but for me and my personal opinion only my Martin blows away the Taylors that I have and the Yamahas I have had in the past. I haven't tried Gibson yet...maybe if I hit the lottery I'll give them a try.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for your comment. You are correct...it is subjective. Enjoy your guitars.

[@NickMcC]

400th comment! I'm so fortunate to have a nice Martin and a nice Taylor. They're different but both very lovely. I love that Taylor and Martin are such different companies that make such different products that appeal to different situations.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Well said !

[@robertgarcia3031]

I have a 1978 takamine F340 that I have had for over 40 years. Took it to the mountains and the lake on my motorcycle all the time. The guitar sounds great and never goes out of tune. I love it.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I have many friends who own older Takamine guitars. They also love them. The electronics not so much, but the guitars, yes. Thanks for watching.

[@StephanieHughesDesign]

Beautiful presentation. Thank you. I love both Taylor and Martin. I have owned older Taylor 310 (too big for me) and sold it purchase a new Taylor 214CE. Love it. I would also like to purchase a Martin 000-10E Mahogany.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thank you for watching. Enjoy your guitar(s).

[@bruce1779]

Thank you and well done. I struggle with my Martin guitars. Even after a proper set up, I feel like I'm fighting the instrument for every clean note. HD-28 and 00-28

[@toddcwalker4208]

I have had good luck with two guitar tech's who have been able to set up my guitars. That being said, Taylor Guitars do seem to be better in the playability department. Thanks for watching. Enjoy your Martins.

[@timcastle165]

I have an older Squier, can’t afford a Taylor or Martin. Great video, new subscriber..

[@architeuthis-matt-p5l]

You can afford the taylor gs mini, i got the mahogany, and i don't play my other guitars anymore, so light, sound so great, pick one up for $599 !!

[@johannesbar9354]

Went in a store to buy a Taylor 3 weeks ago. Came out with a Martin D10. What a difference !

[@toddcwalker4208]

Enjoy that new Martin ! Thanks for watching.

[@stevenwithaph9785]

Did the same thing D13 zircote

[@aaronlarsen7447]

Find a used Martin 00015 in a pawn shop. Talk them down to a grand. You'll be in love forever. Slap a KnK mini in it. No battery, no hole, no quack. Gig. Make money. Leave that 4000 Taylor in the glass case at the store. I had one. It was like i married for looks and she doesnt even like me.

[@toddcwalker4208]

15 series Martins are great guitars. Mahogany doesn't work as well for me as Rosewood, but the 15 series is terrific.

[@kodybryantmusic7357]

Have you ever thought about getting the Taylor pickup completely removed and bridge plate sanded down?

[@toddcwalker4208]

Unfortunately the V-Brace goes right over the extra Maple plate, so it wouldn't be cost effective. I have replaced many Taylor ES-2 (and ES-1's) with K&K Pure Western Mini pickups in Taylor x-braced models. I installed a K&K in the 717. It works okay, but that extra Maple plate doesn't allow for a proper install, thus the amplified sound is okay...just not as good as I would like it.

[@kodybryantmusic7357]

@ ahhh, makes sense. Seems they would have a solution to that. I despise the es2. I love my Baggs anthem in my Taylor 414ce.

[@51Dss]

I prefer the Martin - the difference in warmth of the martin and the pitchier sound of the Taylor is quite noticeable in this video. But I have a question about strings. Do you use the same gauge and brand strings on the guitars you show in this video?

[@toddcwalker4208]

Yes, all are strung with Elixir Phosphor Bronze Nanoweb medium gauge strings.

[@alanparks7919]

Like so many on here, I own Martins, Taylors, Gibson, etc. I love my guitars. Touring for six million miles, my 52-year old Martin OO-21 has had a neck reset and full rebuild. My ‘82 D-12/28 needs a neck reset and the bridge glued back on right now. My custom Taylors are bulletproof. Taylor just has construction and QC down to a fine art form. Both brands speak to me for different reasons, and the variety of sounds is neat for different songs. Taylors record a lot better than most guitars. I’d be honored to own all three of yours played here, but the clarity of that 717 won for me.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Touring for six million miles ? Wow ! You must have loads of great stories to tell. I agree that the Taylor's are well built, and that they record well. That being said, I wish I had my '69 D-28 that I sold in the late 1970's back again. Also a Spruce/Rosewood Gibon J-35 I sold before realizing how good it was. I played the 717 yesterday. Great guitar. Thanks for watching. If you ever want to tell your stories, let me know. We could chat on my podcast.

[@pigjubby1]

When I bought my Taylor in 1994, I chose it over Martin because it had a better action and played better. I liked the sound of the Martin better.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Playability will win out over sound most days. A great sounding guitar that fights the player takes away of the fun. Thanks for watching.

[@romangrayjr]

I prefer Martin. But I don't own one. I own a fine Taylor 818e First Edition. Through unusual circumstances, I had several HD-28's in possession for months at a time (one at a time), and they were all dogs. I came across my gloriously wonderful Taylor at a store soon after, and bought it (around 2013). Since then, I've heard several Martins that I feel are superior. The finest being a Johnny Cash D-35, if I remember correctly. But I've never come across a Martin for sale that I prefer over my particular Taylor.

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@romangrayjr The best guitar is the one that plays & sounds the best to the player, regardless of name brand or price. Enjoy that Taylor !

[@stevenwithaph9785]

Every guitar I get I take it to the luthier and have him set it up

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@stevenwithaph9785 Best way to do it !

[@Hippie-i8g]

I have both, but can anyone advise me on a question, please! Love Ovation, Takemine, Alvarez, I guess I like Japanese guitars. Which will I like better? Had a Taylor 314, about 20 years ago and it was ruined. Loved this guitar, but it was hand made. Bought a 224, which I don't play much. Big question: Are Taylor guitars still hand made in El Cajon, CA?

[@toddcwalker4208]

The low number Taylor's are built in their Mexico factory just South of San Diego. Based on your like of Ovation and Takamine, you may prefer a Taylor, but each guitar is different, so definitely try as many as you can. Purchase the one that speaks to you. Thanks for watching.

[@dochort21]

Have a D-18E retro and a 414ce-R. Both great, but very different instruments that sit well in a a mix together and complement each other very well.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for watching. Keep enjoying both guitars.

[@Frank-pe9pk]

In 1974 after taking lessons I had saved for another guitar. Told my teacher that I was looking for a D28. He blindfolded me to play 2 guitars, a D28 and an Ibanez D28 copy guitar. After 20 minutes I chose the Ibanez for $250 vs Martin at $599, which I had saved for. All these years later the Ibanez is still $250 but the Martin is $2500+. The Ibanez font today is different than mine. It sounds as good as my friends Martin and I will never sell it.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Great story ! Thanks for watching.

[@torgeirmortensen940]

Hi Wispy, What an interesting demonstration. This triggered my interest because of a very good sound quality.. IMHO, the first Taylor you played was the best, very good balance overall tone layers. The second best, was the Martin, very good -but a little on the hi tone end and a little crispy (lots of overtones in high end -harmonics -due to string I'll think). The second Taylor was kind of dull, compared to the two other, again IMHO. Thanks for doing this.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for the comment and for watching. I'm enjoying talking about acoustic guitars, working through my personal collection.

[@leelossi1257]

I preferred the Martin.....very balanced sound. The Taylor 717 is darker.....sounds great though

[@evandrovasques]

What a nice review! This guy knows his craft

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for watching and your kind words.

[@joeginorioviscalmusicvideo2434]

In my song, Sounds of the Falling Rain, I used my Takamine for most of the song. At the very of the song , Bill Bromfield used his Taylor to finish out the song. The sound difference was significantThe Taylor had such a rich deep sound that I said going forward we should use his Taylor as the primary guitar. we used the Taylor in “my mothers garden” and it sounded wonderful.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Merry Christmas Joe !

[@scotthuberty6406]

I have a Martin D-28 that I bought new in 1974 (blue case). I have had the the intonation issue, that the 70's era D-28s are know for, fixed by the factory, for free. I had my guitar tech add a LR Baggs pickup added about 15 years ago that I play through a little Crate CA30D acoustic amp, mostly for myself now. I have 3 other guitars, a Sonata YS 12 String, a Guild S4CE (made in Westerly, RI) and a Gibson Les Paul Custom, plus a Epiphone Mandolin, and a Epiphone banjo. I have never played a Taylor but when I listened to you play both I felt that the Taylors had too much a jangle sound to me.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Keep enjoying your D-28, and your other guitars. There are times when I like a guitar with a jangle, but not always, thus I own too many guitars. Thanks for watching.

[@SKOVDEPETE]

Wonderful interview. Itś gotta be fun or it will nevvver happen. As a growing intermediate guitar player I understand, lucky enough to own several guitar brands and sizes..- it often comes down to this, 1. Looks, 2 Fit, 3, Playability, 4. Sound. I only play for hobby, so I don’t often perform- I hav two cheap guitars, probably the ones I play the most on, because one stands next to my dinner plate on the floor, the other nesxt to my favorite reclining chair. I have other guitars around the house, but it all comes down to playability an fun. The more I play the better ”it” sounds. I dooo love the high end guitars. Don´t get me wrong. But, I actually cherish each and every one of them. They’ve all taught me something 😊

[@toddcwalker4208]

Well said ! Thanks for watching.

[@Kenneth-nVA]

I was strictly an electric guitar player up until about 15 years ago… I’m 60! I recently went on a journey playing everything. Taylor 400 through 800 series ( there was a 914 but I gave up at that point…) I’ve played Breedlove, Tocoma, J-45’s and lastly Martin! Overpriced… I think so but OMG , I picked up a 2024 D-35 and I was completely blown away! Didn’t expect it… didn’t want to admit it but I walked out without it! Returned 3 hours later and walked out with it! I honestly never really played one but the sound, neck and just feel is undeniably! I’m going to say it but people will call Martin’s the top guitar and yet, their D-35’s are grossly underrated! I’m telling you, if you see one, play it!

[@toddcwalker4208]

Congrats on your D-35. I agree that it is overshadowed by the D-28 and D-45. I've only had the pleasure of playing one (back in the early 1970's). It was suffering from low humidity, but if I remember, it had a nice sound. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@ej2796]

I actually think what people are "underrating" the most, is that acoustic guitars are all unique, each and every one. With electric guitars it's very easy to build them and install the pickups, and they will all sound almost exactly the same. Acoustic guitars, by the nature of how wood varies from piece to piece and by the myriad of factors that affect them at each construction stage, and even throughout it's life afterwards....all of that is implanted into a guitar. So each one is a individual, and one guitar can be much different than the next, even of the exact same model. There are gems, and there are also duds. I think the right way of looking at it, is to appreciate every good sounding and playing guitar you have, no matter the brand or cost. But when you do find yourself with one of those rare "gems"....NEVER let it go if you can help it! Lol. It might take you many years to find another, and possibly you may never. I like to say those guitars recieved a touch of magic somewhere allong the way. Appreciate how special it is and how lucky you are to have in your possession. Consider yourself its caretaker and take extra good care to keep it sounding as special as it does. Remembering it will almost certainly outlast you, and pass to someone else. And once a guitar has legacy...it gets touched by that much more magic than it already had when you found it.

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@ej2796 Well said !

[@livingadreamlife1428]

It’s really a dumb question but this gentleman did a good job of explaining the differences. It’s the Mercedes vs BMW argument. Both are expensive and worth it. I have both brands in each brand’s high end models. A HD-28 and a 814ce. They’re completely different sounding instruments. So, your choice or preference depends on your ear, your musical needs and the style of music that you’re playing. Let’s say that you’re playing country, folk or bluegrass or flat picking then Martin is your choice. It will simply sound more like what is expected. If, for example, you’re playing contemporary worship or rock, then the acoustic shrill of the Taylor is difficult to beat. With that said, a really good player can make either guitar sound outstanding on any song.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Well said ! Thanks for watching.

[@bryantcochran5065]

The bracing patterns are different, that leads to tonal differences. Neck profiles are a bit different too. Which one feels best, and sounds best when you're playing it? That's the one you should buy.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Well said. Thanks for watching.

[@mimeeks3]

I am partial to Taylor, but know Martin makes an amazing instrument, and hope to be able to add a D28 to the collection of 3 Taylor’s I own…..

[@toddcwalker4208]

I hope you're able to add a D28 into your collection soon. Thanks for watching !

[@markn4526]

Interesting comments! I think the reason for the difference in resale value between Martins and Taylors is that Martins are typically viewed as "crafted" instruments with a long, rich history being as such whether that is true now in present day or not. Taylors are newer, relatively speaking, and are viewed more as pieced together, assembly line guitars. Don't get me wrong Taylors are fine guitars (if you like their characteristic sound), but they are assembly line guitars just like your car analogy are built on an assembly line. So generally, a Martin guitar is viewed by most people as having more inherent value (probably subjectively) that doesn't depreciate as much compared to a Taylor guitar.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Well said Mark. I think you are correct. Thanks for watching. Merry Christmas !

[@musicaldrops]

I just recorded a 3 song EP. I tracked my Martin D16 and Taylor 114ce both in stereo and it turned out fantastic! Blending both gave a great tone!

[@careyolson3446]

Thank you. As a couch and fireplace player, I prefer Martin. All were guitars to be proud of...

[@toddcwalker4208]

Regardless of 'brand', the best guitar is the one we enjoy the most. Enjoy your Martin.

[@brianralph5036]

I have played both I just like the way a Martin plays better.

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@brianralph5036 Martin definitely has lots of loyal fans. I must admit that I favor Martin.

[@emptynest2travel]

I have both brands. I like Taylors for sweeter sounds and Martins for tawny sounds. Good video

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks. Merry Christmas !

[@dennisyounkin644]

I completely agree, I prefer Martin because of the lower end and as a singer song writer player it fit my voice. I very happy my wallet allows me to buy really nice Martin Guitars! But then I Love my Seagull original S-6!! All guitars have their place in my world!! Thanks.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Where can I hear your music ?

[@johannesbar9354]

Why did u tune them down ?

[@toddcwalker4208]

I tune all my guitars down a full-step to help with my older man vocal range. Thanks for watching.

[@johannesbar9354]

@@toddcwalker4208ok, thank u !

[@mfascuba]

I’ve had a couple Taylor’s and more than a couple Martins. Two of my Martins have binding falling off of them. One of those is a $6k signature model. My next one will likely be a Taylor.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Sorry to hear about your problems with the binding. Hopefully Martin's warranty took care of it for you.

[@mfascuba]

@@toddcwalker4208 the first one it happened to is a 2012 D-18 that I bought used. It’s been relegated to “beater” status because of the binding issue and several botched repair attempts that I had tried with different repair techs. It’s ok on that one, I didn’t pay full price in the first place. Second is the round shoulder dreadnaught Jimmy Buffett signature guitar that they did around 2018. There are around 90 of them in existence. It sounds gorgeous but I don’t take it out of the case because of the binding. That one needs to go back to the factory to get repaired correctly. I’m the original registered owner and it’s under warranty.

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@mfascuba Bummer about the binding on both, but especially the Jimmy Buffet.

[@henrymorgan6087]

I own a couple of Taylor’s…a 1999 310 and a 2022 214ce…I enjoy both…borrowing a friend Martin X model to get a feel for Martin. All fun stuff…I write a bit of cowboy poetry n out it to music as best I can and play campfire settings and help beginner players get started…enjoyed your video sir

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thank you Henry. A friend of mine owned a Taylor 310 from the same time period - it was a really nice guitar. Keep writing cowboy poetry. It would be fun to read.

[@RandolphWhite-jo5iv]

How about comparing comparable Models??

[@toddcwalker4208]

Great idea. I've not found a slope-shoulder Martin dreadnought in Spruce/Rosewood to compare with the Taylor 717. Thanks for watching.

[@RustyRhodes-ox1xo]

Martin quality has fallen off. Taylor is by far a better guitar.

[@surfvern]

Great comparison on these two guitars, you emphasized the sound of both but I wished you had mentioned the strings make and gauge. But overall great comparison and presentation.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for watching. Guitars have medium gauge (13-56) Elixir Nanoweb Phosphor Bronze strings.

[@vegaa.1645]

I own a Martin D12 koa, after owning a Taylor 114 and a ad27 mahogany model with V class bracing. The Martin D12 koa has the highs you hear on a Taylor and the low end you expect from Martin. It has been my favorite guitar this far!

[@toddcwalker4208]

Sounds like a great guitar ! Thanks for watching.

[@myyahoo4537]

What about a James Goodall guitar.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Goodall guitars are top notch. I haven't had the pleasure of playing one. Thanks for watching.

[@rickhernandez-z9t]

I love the sound of the Martin's guitars. They have a unique sound.

[@toddcwalker4208]

That they do. 🙂

[@cowboy7x]

I've had 3 Taylor's. They were ALL 310's .The reason I liked this model is that they sounded the most like my Martins. One thing I absolutely think is genius, is the Taylor's neck joint design. My current 310 and HD28 are both great. But if I could only have one, it would be my Martin.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I helped a friend sell his Taylor 310 (years ago). It was a great guitar ! Agree on the Taylor neck design.

[@DonaldRoycroft-sm3rp]

Interesting, my Brother in Law had,a Taylor, but it failed on him😢

[@cowboy7x]

@@DonaldRoycroft-sm3rp Failed on him? OR....was it that he failed on playing it? HA! Seriously, I've have a friend that's had a couple with problems too.

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@DonaldRoycroft-sm3rp That's a bummer.

[@a-fox]

I own a Taylor and a Martin. The Taylor has more boom on the low end while the Martin is warm but suttle. They both bring out different types of creativity when I play. It's kind of like a Gibson LP and a Fender Strat.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for watching. Merry Christmas !

[@AcousticGuitarsForMe]

Both are great. All about perception.

[@DonaldRoycroft-sm3rp]

@@AcousticGuitarsForMe yes, fair enough, however my Luthier overhear (New Zealand) always reminds to not forget, he's repairing Taylor Electric's, but Never had to do that on Martin's. Go figure

[@SylvesterDigiovanna]

Nice video, thanks for posting. I had a martin D28 that sounded great, but for some reason never sucked me all the way into loving it. Then i found someone selling a 90's yamaha fg460sa in great condition and really fell in love with it. To me it sounds like the boom of the martin plus the shimmer of the Taylor. Then i bought a really cheap new yamaha to beat around, and its not as nice as the others, but still amazing for the money in terms of pkayabikity and sound. Id keep a martin for having something that will hold its value and its beauty and nostalgia, but play yamahas, which leaves the taylor sort of in no-mans land for me, even though great guitars.

[@toddcwalker4208]

You are not alone in your love of Yamaha Guitars...I hear it from many folks. Thanks for watching.

[@tomgray6093]

Love that shirt! Steve Guttenberg would be jealous.🎶👍

[@toddcwalker4208]

I enjoyed each one of Steve's movies. I'm honored. Thanks for the compliment.

[@pebbleschan6085]

The strings are also very important. Your Martin’s high strings sound a little muffled. Are they older by any chance?

[@toddcwalker4208]

New strings on the Martin. Older strings on both Taylor's.

[@bobsmith1098]

I enjoyed the video and the discussion. But, tell the truth ... did you just do a guitar comparison video scordatura at least a 1/2 (and possibly a whole) step low? It could just be my ears today, though. I didn't have my tuner handy...

[@toddcwalker4208]

Yes, all of the guitars are tuned down a full-step in this video. My video comparing carbon fiber to wood, I tuned all to pitch.

[@dharleyfan1]

Martins are all mids and low end. Taylors are more balanced and have less bottom end . The one thing that will ALWAYS bring me to TAYLOR, is that if it needs a neck reset, unlike a Martin that would cost me a $500 to $1,000 dollars, and take a couple of weeks at least to get done. I could take my Taylor in and get the neck reset in 20 minutes and it would cost me less then $100. Yeah I'll take a Taylor.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Taylor definitely has engineered advantages due to Bob Taylor's 'figure out the problem & find a solution' ability.

[@SarcasticComments23]

I was gonna say Martin but then you played the Koa Taylor and was blown away. I’ve always been a huge Martin fan but the tables are turning and Taylor’s quality seems next to none at this point

[@rodger2499]

Great comparison. I bought a Taylor 210e several years ago and really liked it except when playing it my right arm got sore from the top edge of the body digging into my arm. The shop where I take lessons had Taylor reps come in to show the new models. I was talking to a Taylor rep and explained to him my one complaint with my 210e. He said that the body of a 210e is kind of large and suggested I try the new 512ce. The 512ce fit my body perfect. So what do I do, I bought the 512ce, and the shop was able to sell my 210e for more than I expected. Lesson learned from my experience is a guitar needs to feel comfortable when you are playing it. It's like shoes, if they are too big they're not going to work for you.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Happy to hear that you found the guitar that works for you. Thanks for watching.

[@rodger2499]

@@toddcwalker4208 I forgot to mention that I also have a Fender Stratocaster, and a PRS McCarty 594, and a Fender Jazz Bass. I found that learning bass has been very helpful with timing and it's just fun. Recently, I designed and have manufactured my own guitar pick. I never found a pick that worked for me. So, me being a design engineer, I designed, 3D printed numerous prototype picks before finding the correct geometry for a pick that works great. I'm now manufacturing these picks in Colorado. If interested I can send you some to try out for yourself.

[@thoang101]

Your Taylor 717 sound so good.

[@toddcwalker4208]

It's my recording engineer's favorite guitar for studio work. Thanks for watching.

[@snuffyballparks6501]

Taylor guitars are a dream to play. The sound is terrific. After searching for my ultimate acoustic, a dozen years ago or so... I bought a used 2008 Martin D-28 Marquis. LOVE IT! Play it every day. Collings is great as well. If the Guild D-55 came with a 1 3/4" nut width I might have jumped at it. TOTTALLY satisfied with the Marquis and would only trade it for a Martin D-28 GE Brazilian... NO WAY I could afford it though.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Some guitars just speak to us. Enjoy that Martin. Thanks for watching.

[@JohnA000]

Well I guess it is a matter of preference. But I love Martin guitars. I have had several and I love the sound and the workmanship is excellent. I never owned a taylor but have played a few. I really have no desire to own one. They sound good and I suppose are well made but to me they can't hold a candle to Martin.

[@edfulginiti8798]

I rotate between a Martin (now discontinued) a Yamaha (Japanese made) and three Taylor’s. I find favor with them all…but pressed, I’d go with the Yamaha…FG5.

[@scottmorris7546]

The Martin modern deluxe guitars are flat out amazing. I have the 000-18 and the 000-42. The notes fly out of them.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Enjoy your beautiful guitars ! Thanks for watching.

[@bobaldo2339]

Given the choice between a heavier low end or a more dominant treble sparkle ,I'd take the low end just instinctively. But for some of my songs I do like the sparkle. In any case, I really prefer a rounder fretboard radius (12") and a 1 & 11/16" nut width. So, I end up with US made Guilds - which sound like neither Martins nor Taylors. For me, the feel of the guitar is the most important aspect. I have many acoustics. The one that is most comfortable is the one I play the most.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for watching and your comment.

[@MH-do2zt]

Hi slight preference for the Taylor 717 sound. What strings are on the guitars? Look like nickel on the Taylor 717? Thanks

[@toddcwalker4208]

I use Elixir Phosphor Bronze Nanoweb medium gauge (.013-.056).

[@austenrobinson2747]

The one that’s best? Depends on the 10 fingers attached to it and what sounds best TO YOU. me I like my Martin. Don’t really like Taylor’s but I may be biased.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I agree about the ten fingers. One person's best guitar may not be a like for others. Thanks for watching.

[@southjerseyjim5049]

Interesting. Just went on the Martin factory tour a few weeks ago. Listened to this without reference to the video so as to make it a “blind” listening test. I’m shocked that (A.) I heard a difference and (B.) that it was the Martin that I much preferred. I didn’t expect that as I prefer brighter guitars. However, the Martin sound palette has a greater depth and richness to it. It seems more “balanced” and “expansive” to my ear, as compared to the Taylors which seem more one dimensional - for the lack of a better term.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for listening and taking the time to comment. I appreciate it.

[@tankcrowe7668]

Ive never played two guitars of the same maker and model that sounded or played exactly the same. I never figured out how people order a guitar online without playing it. Ive found above the 4 thousand dollar range sound and playability become negligible.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I agree. No two pieces of wood sound exactly the same when made into a guitar, even if cut from the same tree(s). Playing before buying is the best way. And yes, the sound isn't always tied to price. I own two or three inexpensive guitars that sound much better than a few of my $3,000-$4,000 guitars. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@teleguy5699]

When you are left handed, good luck "trying" a guitar before buying one. You are lucky if there is 2 models of an acoustic and maybe three electric. Once, a reputable site here on KZbin steered me towards Yamaha for my first acoustic, so I go to the website and they only have 3 different models, none in my price point, and one was a Jumbo I knew I didn't want.

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@teleguy5699 I agree that it's difficult to find a left-handed guitar, electric or acoustic, in most guitar shops.

[@teleguy5699]

@@toddcwalker4208 It's a slog for sure. If it wasn't for the internet, I wouldn't have the guitars I own. I only buy from places I can return if there is issues. Just ordered a 00015sm from Sweetwater coincidentally. The guitar they found out was all scratched up during inspection. Plus one for they actually do inspect them before shipping. I got their only other model and hammered that they set it up and look it over with a fine tooth comb. If it's shite, I'll send it back. Other places had this model, but one said on the fine print all sales are final. Are you kidding me? With an online transaction? gtfo!

[@windmillcancersurvivor2568]

You've got game Wispy! D18 for me, one of the good ones. Ian Meadows likes hogs and that influenced my choice. That shirt kills! I'd like to know where to get one.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I buy many of my shirts from companies like Hardaddy. Not high quality, but visually catchy. My favorites are old Jams shirts I purchase on eBay. Thanks for watching.

[@lenwhatever4187]

I needed a small (1/2 size?) guitar for use on our boat. I was planning to buy a student model but I showed my wife a Baby Taylor and a similar sized Martin while we were there. The Taylor and the Martin were similar priced but in that size the Taylor was much nicer sounding, Clearer, articulate and louder too. So we have the Taylor. We already have full sized guitars (Simon& Patrick from Quebec) so I have not really spent time with full sized guitars. I also like the Baby for playing with other people because it adds colour to the mix. My wife does like the size better than her full sized guitar. I really can't comment on the Martin/Taylor differences in general though, The Martin you played did sound like it had a bit of a mid scoop by comparison. The DLX was different again , more of a performance guitar in cases where being heard was more important than a certain sound, not a bad sound but more present for sure.

[@toddcwalker4208]

It sounds like you're enjoying that little Taylor - congrats. Thanks for watching.

[@goplad1]

I've have yet to play a Taylor I felt lived up to its reputation. I'm a Martin man all the way. Runner up is Guild. I love my Guild D-25.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Guild D-25 is a tried & true guitar. Many of my friends own the red version. Thanks for watching.

[@anthonyfowler2623]

Which one is better…the one you play

[@toddcwalker4208]

Right you are ! Thanks for watching.

[@tomf429]

My Martin D-18 is 51 years old. I bought it in 1973 for $325. I play in a bluegrass group. I was looking for a 2nd guitar a few years ago. I went to a music store and spent several hours playing many guitars. None of them had the tone, especially in the low end, of my D-18. Some of the Taylor’s were nice, but none of them thumped. I settled on a PRS SE made in China for $800. That was 5 years ago. I play both many hours a week. When we are outside in the heat or humidity, or if it’s cold during winter, the PRS holds tune better because the sides are laminate.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Tough to find a guitar better than your old Martin. Cherish that baby.

[@TheWhiskeyCowboyLife]

I prefer playing a Taylor. But I always advise that if you want dreadnaughts or similar, Martin sounds better. But if you fingerstyle or flat pick modestly, Taylor (non-dreadnaught styles) will probably work best. I prefer their sound for that style of playing. My go-to is my Taylor 314ce Ltd. Cheers.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Cheers ! I'm having my once-a-month whiskey. Here's to great guitars !

[@rmzzz76]

The reason Taylor guitars don't tend to hold their value as well is because Taylor's niche in the marketing is innovation. Taylor has been around since the 1970s and yet they don't have any iconic models comparable to a D18, D28, Gibson J-45 or J-200. The most iconic guitar Taylor has built, which any dealer can confirm, also happens to be their best seller, is the GS Mini. That's also the model that holds value the best. By "innovation" I mean they are always making changes and claiming their new pickup technology, new finish, new bracing design, whatever it is that's new supersedes everything that came before it... It was very sad to me seeing that for their 50th anniversary this year they have not a single reissue, that's because there's nothing sought after in their back catalog... C.F. Martin makes much more subtle changes, being the company responsible for the most sought after golden era / Wartime guitars from the 1940s, C.F. Martin's and Gibson's sell on legacy and tradition not innovation.For the type of buyer looking for a Martin, the older often the better.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Well said. Thanks for watching.

[@karlberardi4351]

Nice review, and I agree with your assessment, and I’ve described the qualities of guitars using Taylor/Martin comparisons. But, it’s time we dragged ourselves away from terms that we’ve come to assume are universal. We could 86 terms that require a subjective value like warmth, shimmer and move toward terms like, overtone and sustain, terms that can be measured and quantified. Now we get into strings and picks and arguments of energy in/ energy out and all that. It all comes down to yada, but some terms do at least suggest a subjective analysis. Was that too cranky? Hope not.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Not cranky at all. I'm amazed by players who ask about sound, and I use terms like sustain, overtones, warmth, shimmer, etc., and I get a blank stare. In the end, it all comes down to what the player likes. It's almost like trying to describe the taste of food. Good comment(s). Thanks for watching.

[@hayshallman5903]

I’m not a Taylor fan because of the the brightness or what we say it sounds tinie . I play a Collings D2h and a Breedlove legacy . I find the Collings is much like a Martin in the low end but much better balanced the Breedlove is my cutaway so I have both options on stage. I also own an old Washburn dreadnought that has a wonderful sound for open or different tunings . I use it to play the rain song on . I think basically it’s in the ear of the beholder. I have owned a few martins and I let one get away that I regret a 1946 D-18 that had great overtones but I needed the cash at the time and she’s been gone for 8 years now. Play many brands and sizes and find what’s right for you. One other thing the string selection matters immensely!

[@toddcwalker4208]

Agree on the string selection. Also the pick, if a player uses a pick. I sold a my 1969 Martin D-28 back in the 1970's when I needed cash. I keep looking for it to come up for sale. Thanks for watching.

[@farmershane]

I’ve played lots of both. I very rarely, really never, have picked up a Taylor that excited me even though I really wanted them to. I was playing a Taylor at my cousins house tonight. His old seagull was much more interesting and sounded way better. I often get emotional when I play my Martin D28 and have written songs on it that have touched the people I have preformed them for. I also have a Yamaha that I would take over any model of Taylor that I have played.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I will admit that I love playing my Seagull S6. Enjoy that D28 and keep writing songs. I'm selling a 1969 Martin D28 Brazilian Rosewood for a friend. Would like to keep it but I own way too many guitars.

[@GuitarsRule]

I bought a Martin because it was a 175th anniversary, thought it may appreciate more over time. That deeper sound is unamplified sound. Taylor guitars can be set up with slightly lower action than Martins, they play incredibly well up the neck. With the Aura electronics system on the Martin, you can approach the more sparkled sound of the Taylor. Tough choice.🎶

[@toddcwalker4208]

Tough choice equals owning too many, for me that is. Thanks for watching.

[@darrellfxdwg]

I own 3 Martins but I'm pretty confident if I were to look for a guitar with a little different sound I would likely go for a Guild. I actually gigged a Guild F-35 in a bluegrass band for a while and it showed well for itself.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Guild is a reputable brand, especially the older ones. Thanks for watching.

[@Hippie-i8g]

First one sounds a lot better to me. Am a Veteran and do have hearing loss. What was the 1st one? Second one sounds a little like guitars that America would play.

[@toddcwalker4208]

The first sound demo was a Taylor 717 Grand Pacific. The second was a Martin DR Centennial.

[@Hippie-i8g]

@@toddcwalker4208 Thank you!

[@brucnc]

Which brand of string did you use? And is it 0.12? I’m from Brazil !

[@toddcwalker4208]

Hello Brazil - beautiful country ! I use Elixir Phosphor Bronze Nanoweb (13-56) medium gauge strings. I tune my guitars down a full-step - the added string tension helps the lowered tuning. Thanks for watching.

[@brucnc]

@@toddcwalker4208 Sounds good, thanks friend!!

[@Ksantipacat]

I had a Taylor 324 which I recently sold. A beautiful Smokey burst with a matte finish. It was so beautiful but I didn't want to play it. The two guitars I'm playing right now are Martin D16M and a Gibson gospel from 1994. I thought the Martin was amazing, but This old Gibson has just got a great setup and feels perfect for me. The Gibson just draws me to it, so I play a lot more when it's sitting on my dresser.

[@toddcwalker4208]

The older Gibson Gospel models are somewhat rare, but good guitars. Enjoy yours. Thanks for watching.

[@nhm1069]

They both are great guitar makers. I own three Martins, two Gibsons, and other guitars but zero Taylors - not that I have anything against Taylor. Each of my guitars has a specific purpose and I haven't had a need for a Taylor (yet). Ultimately, you get what you pay for and it comes down to what you're looking for. Sometimes people make unfair comparisons between the two brands (like a $3,000 Taylor compared to a $1,000 Martin). They are both great investments.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment - I appreciate it. Do you use your guitar for studio work, live gigs, or both ?

[@nhm1069]

@@toddcwalker4208 Mostly I play in church and I upload videos to youtube. I'm too busy with a career and a family to spend too much time playing but I do enjoy it. If I can ever retire then I'll probably spend most of my time playing guitars. Thanks for asking.

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@nhm1069 I look forward to watching some of your videos. Much good luck to you. I produce both audio and video podcasts (Wispy Mop Music Acoustic Radio Podcast Series). It would be an honor if you'd join me on a podcast. You can reach out to me directly (todd at toddcwalker dot com).

[@lanceriffle4841]

The Martin sounded best to me fingerpicking but less so stumming. I have always found Taylors had better action out of the box. In a store the Martins always sound the best but IMHO they also need a set up. Kind of a pain when spending Martin money.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I agree that the Martin sounded better finger-picked than strummed.

[@sparrowhawk3894]

I tend to think of the Taylor sound as a BRIGHT sunny day and the Martian as sitting in front of an open fireplace in the evening playing folk. I have had both and love both. I have given one to my Son in law and one to my Grandson in law. Young and older, I'm anciant and have broken down hands now (one broken in a fall and one just don't want to work any more. I believe one day soon my Grand children and Greats will someday ask "show me how to do that" and I want them to both have the best to learn on.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I love your description of the two brands. Thanks for watching.

[@gpasc]

or Gibson???

[@toddcwalker4208]

Some Gibson guitars are great, but the company has definitely had some rough times, which unfortunately resulted in major quality issues. 1950's guitars are wonderful. The 1960's introduced the use of plastic bridges. The Norlin years (if I have the name correct) weren't good ones. Quality during the early 2000's was inconsistent at best, but the past decade has seen the quality improve. Some of my favorite guitars were Gibson's from the 1950's and early 1960's. Thanks for watching.

[@HumbleHeartMinistry]

I think my Zagar is every bit as good.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Enjoy that Zagar ! Thanks for watching.

[@lar57jsy]

Guitars and audio recording mixes that have a brighter chiming sound are enjoyed more by the over-50 years old crowd as it helps compensate for their hearing losses. The term I've heard more of lately is "air". That's those highest frequencies.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I like 'air' in a guitar's sound. Thanks for watching.

[@reggiehucks1010]

I think electric guitar players like the Taylor neck profile better. By the way, where is the Gibson love?

[@toddcwalker4208]

I'm a big fan of Gibson's, depending upon the year. Unfortunately I don't own one at the moment. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@georgevadnais3516]

I learned from you. I like Martin but my heart go for Taylor.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I like them both. Each guitar I own has a slightly different voice, but all nice. ;-)

[@thomaspaine6496]

Taylor needs more maintenance. The truss rod shifts and the frets pop up after a few years the preamp is more useful however.

[@toddcwalker4208]

I have only seen lifted frets on guitars that suffer from low humidity. Taylor's service department is considered to be excellent. Did you return it to Taylor ?

[@gybx4094]

I own a Martin 000-18 and a Martin D-35. I also own a Taylor 555 Jumbo 12-sting. All three of them are excellent, but they each have different sounds and different advantages.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Enjoy your guitars - thanks for watching.

[@gpasc]

How about the 000-18?

[@toddcwalker4208]

@@gpasc The OOO-18 is a great guitar. It has the nice woody Mahogany sound and a shorter scale length for easy playing.

[@johnwashburn3793]

I currently own two Martin guitars. I have never owned a Taylor. I prefer the neck shape of the two that I own, as well as the wood combination. Both are red spruce and mahogany (D-18GE and CEO 7).I do own a couple with rosewood and I have been playing them a bit more lately, but I must adjust my hearing to the tone. I have typically gigged with my '82 Washburn Tanglewood, as I can control the feedback and tone better than I can with the Martins.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Some of my better live performance guitars are in the lesser expensive category. Garth Brook's personal signature Takamine guitar had all laminated woods, even the top. I was told that it was designed that way to minimize feedback when amplified for live performance. The same model produced for consumers had a solid top with laminated back/sides. Enjoy your Martins.

[@thetexasbeachbum9929]

Martin all the way. Mic drop.

[@toddcwalker4208]

🙂

[@kevinwatkins3856]

There is no “better” in guitardom, imo, just “personal preference”.

[@toddcwalker4208]

Ditto. Thanks for watching.