Professional Luthier Reacts: Martin Guitar Factory Tour

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Chris and Matt sit down and watch a tour of Martin Guitars' American factory.
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Link to the original video here:
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[@coltknight3945]

When you take the factory tour, they don't hold anything back. You see everything, and you can ask employees questions. At the end, they give you a coaster made of the sound hole cutout laser engraved.

[@DriftwoodGuitars]

That’s great to hear! One day I’ll go take one for myself.

[@pinkoknitter1421]

I did the factory tour in 2009 and it was amazing, and it didn't cost anything. I was really surprised that the tour group actually walked on the factory floor and , as you say, we were able to interact with the workers. I also loved the museum. And I still have my sound hole cut-out. That was a really nice touch.

[@edsautter51]

@@DriftwoodGuitars when you got that Rosewood bed in Jersey you were only a few hr's or less to the plant. I though I'd see you going there.

[@jeffreyweber8006]

I was an aerospace machinist for 25 years. Still in the trade. The table moves instead of the head for stability and accuracy. If all that hardware to actually move the head around were up there in the head, there would be waaay more potential for harmonics to be introduced into the head and into the cutter. Also, it's easier to make that table move around - you can make it heavy and solid and just apply more hp to move it without introducing harmonics (vibration, chatter) into your cutting tool.

[@bluepvp900]

Great explanation! It improves precision and accuracy then. When it really matters, you do it this way. Maybe in a handmade shop that precision and accuracy difference doesn't matter much, but when making many hundreds or thousands of guitars each year the difference becomes significant.

[@blueeyes242128]

Another reason the table moves is to minimize the effects of inertia on the gantry - another point is the gantry has a big weight (the spindle motor) on the end of a lever (the gantry legs) and then it would have a z-axis which is another lever - this gives two pivot points that can flex causing errors in the cut - so a stationary gantry with a moving table eliminates this - the table rides on the linear rails and has a larger footprint and allows the gantry to be more solid and focus on the spindle - the tradeoff is that it requires significantly move room for the same size working surface - so the job that the machine will be performing needs to be taken into account when selecting a machine layout - furthermore the material that will be processed also has an impact on this - metal requires significantly more force to mill than wood or plastic - but where wood mills pretty well (talking about how the tools cut and discard material and how clean it cuts) plastic usually requires higher feed rates and large flutes as plastic tends to heat and swell easily which distorts the final dimensions - a large 3-axis gantry 2.5 mill (like a 4x8 table mill used for flat stock) is usually fine for wood plastic and some thin metal but for precision work and or large pieces of metal a traditional 3-axis mill is best - its all about stability and runout - the oscillations can be measured with stress gauges and the farrier method but i've rarely ever had to go that far when designing and building a mill - one last consideration is the drive system - a single phase drive system (to clarify were talking about the motors to move the axis but also would include the spindle) is going to oscillate (harmonics are when the oscillations overlap which amplifies the effects of them) - so three phase motors then to work best but aren't critical usually - it really comes down to if you're chasing 10ths of and inch or thousandths of an inch

[@stephenbennett7331]

It’s a CO2 laser with a gas tube source. You don’t move the laser source because vibration will introduce longevity issues. With DC servers, moving the work piece is simple and accurate.

[@prateekpoddar1890]

Learned something new today. Thanks!

[@TheDirty360]

@@stephenbennett7331 Was going to say this. CO2 for organics/wood. For cutting head movement you would need a mirror system which is more maintenance.

[@blessedwithchallenges9917]

Martin employees are dedicated, believe in their products and do an excellent job!

[@DriftwoodGuitars]

Did we say otherwise?

[@blessedwithchallenges9917]

@@DriftwoodGuitars a little defensive? Nope. Just sharing my experiences...

[@stellingbanjodude]

I took the Martin tour in 2014, it’s what turned me onto guitar building. Now I’m on #10

[@BobStCyr]

I've been on the Martin tour many times - first time was 1973 and all of the American made Martins are built like in this video, not just custom shop. You said "I don't want to make assumptions" but you made many.

[@ricardosotosan2279]

The Martin Standard line is and will always have the iconic American acoustic guitar tone.

[@John-ic6zo]

Never heard of Driftwood guitars...is that what they make their guitars from?

[@gfurstnsu]

I visited the Martin Factory back in 1962 when I brought my father’s 1945 D-18 for fret replacement and pick guard issues. They gave me a brief tour of the factory, remember this was the old factory, and being impressed at how they fit all the work areas into such a small space. The smell of wood and hide glue was overwhelming. I have a vivid memory of the stacks of wood above and the efficient manner of the professionals working. Remember this was a time when Martin was backlogged by two years. The folk boom that started in the late 1950s was in full swing. I really appreciated how they made the guitars. It was the only tour of a guitar factory that I have ever had but since only purchased Martins do to my good impression of their construction. That was in contrast to the tour of the GM Fisher body plant in Terrytown, NY back in 1955. I was amazed at the number of hammers being used to fit the body parts on the Chevrolet cars as they were moving along the production line. The noise of hammers pounding steel panels was overwhelming. I was so shocked that I convinced my parents to stop buying Chevy cars and buy Ramblers.oh yes, I forgot to say, they did all the work on my dad’s guitar for free as he was the original owner! NOT BAD!!

[@teverde]

Nice story!

[@carlosreira2189]

Yeah, they used real humans then. Looks like they're struggling to keep up with the Taylor robots. Sad. Martin is the American design classic. Only one original.

[@SergeCeyral]

I did the same tour back in ’95 (North and Sycamore rd plants) : i could see everything and talk to anyone... So interesting. The only (small) complain: i found them a bit stingy: as an owner of a nice D42, i’ve been awarded a wonderful spruce discus, as a special customer gift ! A T-shirt would have been welcomed...Anyway, my Martin is still wonderful, after all these years

[@timgillespie1081]

Hide glue has several advantages over PVA glue. First, it is reversible. PVA glue can be reversed, but it is much more difficult. Second, as hide glue dries, it tends to close the joint. PVA does not. Finally, and probably most importantly, hide glue does not creep like PVA does. The obvious disadvantage of hide glue is its very short open time, and of course the smell.

[@el34glo59]

Agreed. Hide glue important also sounds better. Idc what anyone says, I can hear the difference. It just hardens differently. Especially considering how close it gets to the joint.

[@ared18t]

There's supposedly oderless hide glue but that probably smells too haha.

[@micheldevries7975]

This wasn't an all negative review but it has that conceded tone to it. I recognize it because years ago I spent many, many hours in a friend's workshop. He is one of the more well known and better luthiers in the Netherlands and he builds great guitars. He always had that same vibe about Martin that you guys have: not straight up negative but that sort of arrogance whenever Martin is mentioned. It is probably some sort of jealousy. Whatever it is, Martin guitars are amazing and even the affordable ones sound good enough to be used professionally. They all have that typical resonant Martin thing going, even the Mexican DX ones. That is for sure not the case with Taylor or any other brand (and I for sure AM a Martin fanboy because I love the sound, playability and inspiration I get as a musician from playing, performing and recording martin guitars)

[@dietersdawgs]

Disagree with you.....I've played many Martins and none of them compare with my Boucher or Breedlove....I usually find Martin owners are the ones with all the bias and conceit in my experience, and their dealers.....I would say every Martin owner and dealer I've ever come across is a SNOB....I went with a friend who had a $6000 Martin back to the dealer he bought it from because he brought it to me and it sounded like crap and he wanted to know why and I noticed instantly it had way too much finish on it. They said there was something wrong with our hearing and that Martin never makes mistakes.! I also had a student who was told if he didn't buy a martin guitar he couldn't play in his friend's band! What kind of bull shit is that, eh?

[@briandesjardins728]

Martin's are great, I work for Bourgeois guitars. When you can buy a used Bourgeois for the same as a stripped down d28, somethings wrong with that picture...

[@dietersdawgs]

@@briandesjardins728 yeah. It just means people are brainwashed lol! I’ve never played a great Martin....everyone I’ve played has been mediocre at best, so yeah, something definitely is wrong with the “picture” lol

[@Ks-zz9lh]

It’s an opinion piece of a competitor. Let’s leave at that.

[@roderickbalt8993]

Yeah I don't like it when there's an underlying emotion involved or a certain disdain, because there's a lot to be said about the whole boutique way of building guitars. However a lot of people think that Martin or Gibson or Taylor make the best guitars because of the name they have. When they are essentially mass produced guitars that look great but aren't necessarily anything special. What you're saying is not really true, a Taylor or a Gibson will all have something good about them generally it's just a personal preference of what the brand does.

[@eharmicar]

“push the boundaries of inlay”-I’d say they pushed the boundaries of taste with that Orange County Choppers guitar.

[@rogersorensen5225]

I was at the Martin factory and toured the main floor; that really old carousel they use to glue up the tops they said was a piece of repurposed railroad switching equipment that has been in the factory since around 1901 or thereabouts. When I was there, they were still bending some odd models on a hot pipe with a blow torch instead of a press. In fact, I have an older Martin "A" mandolin with scorch marks inside the top where they bent it over a rod or something. They also had a room that looked like a classroom with about 30 ladies making guitar strings. I think that was moved to Mexico or someplace. When I was there you could still get into the old factory also. I watched them assemble a guitar kit and they just took parts off the shelf that was intended for production, and put them in a box. They laid out the backs and sides to make sure they matched as if they were going to build it themselves. I have gotten more then one kit, and they are at various stages of production when they pick the parts. Sometimes the top is joined and sometimes not. Whatever you want. I have never found a piece of defective wood either.

[@edwardpetersen4309]

I live 40 minutes from the Martin factory and have taken the tour a dozen times. It's worth it just for the delicious smell of the wood. Unfortunately they're not doing tours right now due to Covid. I'm not a huge inlay fan. I like the simple beauty of the wood, but I appreciate the artistry and your's are pretty cool! 45s have the elan, but I prefer the decoration on the 18s and 28s. BTW their lower lines like the DX are made in the Mexico factory.

[@gonshocks]

I visited the factory in 1980 and had the pleasure to meet C.F. Martin III and his grandson C.F. Martin IV, who is now president. Also was lucky to get a one-on-one tour from Mike Longworth. I still remember how great it smelled in there.

[@SibzelChebst]

The point of hide glue is that if a part of the guitar gets irreparably damaged, you can unglue it, fit a new piece, and glue it back together. Its why some violins are worth millions of dollars. It will retain its value because its infinitely more repairable than a modern acoustic guitar.

[@DriftwoodGuitars]

Most modern wood glues offer this same reparability.

[@drzainnas]

Thank you Chris and Matt, what is so special about your channel is the smile. With all the respect to everyone and all the companies and their hard working staff. However, being able to express our inputs, thoughts, experiences regardless to speciality or even age. At the same time it is a healthy and a sign of wisdom to accept out differences but at the same time we sit around the same table and we share our opinions. Happiness and smiles they don't mean to insult but to make the atmosphere very relaxed. At the same time we do have all the respect to the people who started these amazing projects like the Martin family members and all the employees with their hard work. Thank you everyone. Peace and blessings from ENGLAND 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 👍👍

[@stevenblake5273]

My dad lived about 20 minutes from their factory. Last thing we ever did together while he was healthy was take the Martin tour. Good memories. Their cheaper guitars are made in Mexico.

[@TommyAlanRaines]

The keeping the laser fixed insures it stays focused and has far less maintenance, along superior accuracy when cutting!

[@ericecklund676]

When you and Matt thought that $7,000 was a steep upcharge for Brazilian Rosewood, perhaps Martin meant it was a full back and sides set. Not just that simple strip of wood that they were showing in their display. I own six high end Martin's, only one of which has Guatemalan Rosewood. I actually like the Adi/Mahogany combination better. Four of mine are Custom Shop models, one of them is a D-18 Authentic 1939 Aged model. It was great to see the Custom Shop spaces where that one was made. Nice video!

[@markprestifilippo6981]

This was great! I grew up and still live in Nazareth. I've been to the factory countless times and the museum is really interesting! When they were still giving tours pre-covid, you were able to see everything. The whole factory is set up so people can watch almost everything being done, hence the glass in front of the workers. I have a bunch of friends that work or have worked at the factory and it's definitely a place that still has some classic skills being used! Keep up the good work!

[@leonardskinerd7758]

The problem is that a lot of owners of high end instruments(Martin,Gibson, etc) assume because of the price they paid, that their guitar was made on a bench by a luthier and companies like Martin and Gibson don't really do a lot to correct that misconception.

[@MaurysMusic]

You’ll have to find a video tour of Martin’s Navajoa factory to see the X series and Road series … those guitars aren’t made in Nazareth. Martin never claimed to tune their tops- the bracing dept simply makes the repeatable patterns that earned Martin their rightful place in history. If you do want to see a longer tour video, we just posted one. Thanks for the vid.

[@glenpound9353]

Hating all over Martin. They have been around for a LONG time. I just got a D-18, I cant find anything wrong with it, it sounds and looks great.

[@DriftwoodGuitars]

Not hating, just pointing out differences in Hand Made vs Factory made.

[@mre_man]

I know what you mean. They sound pretentious to me and it's reflected in their 15k US base price.......... not sure who is buying there guitars? certainly not gig musicians at that price.

[@freddieblue6351]

Martin is the standard that all others are measured by!!! I will stand my Guild M-20 up against anything handmade. Martin D-18 is an American classic!!!

[@G_Demolished]

@@freddieblue6351 M20 is a great guitar.

[@bradswanson6788]

Man, you guys have a good thing goin here. Keep up the informative and fun content.

[@EpicTimeV7]

best guitar building chanell so far! Great job guys!

[@juliachild9377]

You're definitely over exaggerating about the smell of a horse hoof. Unless the horse has something wrong with its hoof, all it smells like is dirt and grass.

[@georgelange5272]

I’ve got a custom shop d42 that sounds amazing. It is made with sinker mahogany and Adirondack spruce top. It is built with hide glue as well. Martin has done their work well with my guitar for sure

[@HunterErwinMusic]

Do one with Japan Takamine’s Factory You can eat off the Floor there Takamine uses Hide Glue on all there guitars as well as hand shape the necks . All is done by hand Be nice to see you guys review there shop

[@michaelmckenna9022]

When buying a Takamine pay the extra money for all wood.

[@HunterErwinMusic]

@@michaelmckenna9022 all the ones I own are all solid and are outstanding

[@michaelmckenna9022]

@@TheKhanhhoa I do business with a Japanese company. They furnish the plant manager with a 3500 square foot home. The whole family moves into the smallest bedroom in the house. The Japanese if had a choice, they would live in a smaller place. There is a lot of social pressure in Japan to have an outstanding career. The children study day and night to have better grades than their peers. They rarely get any vacation. One of my customers in Osaka area actually Kolbe. He begs me to visit so he can entertain me and get himself a day off. You are right, the suicide rate there is extremely high. Behind the pleasant smiles are some very unhappy people. What's funny is the peasants or low class people are happier.

[@Colhogan06]

I watched the Takamine tour online and I found some of the things they discussed very interesting. Such as the brand name is actually named after a mountain and not a person. Who knew?

[@autistichead8137]

Interesting that they do everything by hand. I purchased a nylon Takamine once and the neck was so twisted it had to be returned. Ended up going with a Taylor Academy 12N.

[@Poutube31]

cool video! I've gone on their public tour before and it goes thru the entire upstairs of their shop (downstairs was where you saw them looking down at the factory). so you see about twice as much as this video ended up showing. pre-pandemic too so no one was behind glass! VERY cool tour.

[@Thescavenger]

Ok, now you’ve seen how they make them...let’s see a 00-15m test. Want to see the inside of that one! Enjoying your builds too. Keep the videos comin

[@chrisholland350]

I've been there and you walk thru the process and see just about everything. Really really cool and the Museum is awesome

[@thomaswalz3515]

I live about 40 minutes from the plant, know folks who worked there. The legacy they are trying to mass produce used to be done by just a handful of craftsman, like furing "golden age," late 1920's to (I think) up until WW II. I've a collector friend. He has a rather impressive collection of pre-war boxes. Each is unique (as they should be IMO), amd mind boggling to play. He is also a skilled craftsman, has made 7 acoustics, mostly OM's, and the play and sound great. As a good friend, he gave me #7, a OM-28k equivalent (profile pic). I'm in heaven. He said he made it to 1930's spec. It is very light, hasn't a truss rod. He made the neck to suit my taste, I like wide necks 1 13/16 nut width. I use a .011 high set, and it projects rather well, plays like a dream. He'd like to be building more. He has yet to bend mahogany sides without breaking them. He also makes split cane fly rods. He said it takes him longer to make a fly rod than an acoustic guitar. Blows my mind... but his craftsmanship is top notch, and this takes time, as you know. Love your channel. Inspired by my friend, and your vids, I'd like to build. I've made a couple electrics... but what's an electric guitar but a plank, with a nice neck? Creating a toneful box is a whole other kettle of fish. Accumulating tools, lots more to get.

[@Andy_Classic]

Does your friend have any website, social media or anything like that? I would love to check out his work!

[@johnfeole1971]

Yes, I as well would like to see his work..

[@thomaswalz3515]

@@Andy_Classic He despises social media, although he is on FB, he only uses it to go on guitar forums. I will respect his wishes. I'm on FB. PM me, I'll send you pic's. My profile pic is of a Tele I built.

[@thomaswalz3515]

@@johnfeole1971 He dispises social media. Only uses FB for guitar forums. I'll respect his privacy. I'm on FB, send me a PM, I'll send you pic's. My profile pic is of a Tele I built.

[@johnfeole1971]

@@thomaswalz3515 he sounds like me, lol..thx, I'll check FB..

[@thegooddoctor8479]

When I visited Martin in the early 80's they had a water curtain flowing around the finish room to keep the dust out. From building my own guitars, I've discovered that surface prep and finish takes lots of time. Martin spends a lot of time to get that flawless finish. Sanding, filing. sealing, spraying, sanding, spaying as many times as it takes for perfection. I could never duplicate it.

[@chrismccannIRL]

Hold on guys. I like what you’re doing at driftwood, but Martin tone is excellent. I own 3 custom shop Martin’s and bar the mistake I made on the Dreadnought not to have the braces scalloped (bass isn’t as deep but sounds good finger picking) their sound is phenomenal. Hand made bespoke guitars will always be something different but Martin do a really neat job on all their guitars. You were a bit critical of their braces and processes

[@el34glo59]

Exactly. Really a turn off. Not a good look acting that way. And anyone hating on Martin is out of their minds. Especially their tone. You wouldn't in the position you're in without them. And imo, they're still the best sound wise.

[@podfuk]

I love this series!

[@charlesbranch4120]

26,000 visitors a year and 13,000 guitars a year produced at the time of this video, (2021, makes me wonder if all the glass/plexiglass/Lexan fronts of the work stations were "pandemic protocol "...) Alamo Music orders Martin Customs in addition to the factory models, and I've seen custom shop guitars in the $6k-$10k range. I really like the Angel 2 Redwood top with Blackwood back and sides from Cole Clark Guitars of Melbourne (AU) with their PG3 amplification system. I strummed my daughter's Yamaha 730S several days ago, and that is still a very nicely finished guitar with flamed grain in the neck. ($300 from Musician's Friend as I recall, when they were part of USAA's member buying service. I'm trying to figure out when we bought it, and I'm thinking she was 12 (She thought she was 16, but that was her sister's age during the 4-H music camp when I paid for both guitars..) That would place it about 17 years ago... She offered the 730S for me to start learning with, but the smaller concert and auditorium size guitars suit me better in my late 60s. Thanks, Matt and Chris! (Enjoyed the Academy 12 breakdown video, as those were two of the guitars I bought at the start of "Pandemic Pause 2020" for $500 and less, one a year-end disposal sale from a music store as new orders would be arriving.)

[@scaira60]

Chris I use hide glue a lot, there are different strengths the stronger the bond the quicker it sets up. Once you get used to using it it’s not bad, it does smell just a little. I use it for antique furniture repairs mostly. Great vid, I really enjoy your channel.

[@christopherspohn8071]

See i am not sure why fans of guitars are so tone glue thing, but i have never heard a single guitar builder say hide glue is for the tone. Most furniture builders are frugal or cheap and hide glue you get in like 3lb or bigger bag you can use that last for years.

[@michaelmckenna9022]

My fingers and ears are in love with my Martin D-28. Martin uses Plek machines, which is a positive use of technology.

[@fkndazed]

The benefits to moving the work area as opposed to the laser is that its makes it easier to keep the laser focused. In the case of cnc routers its better at keeping the balance for precision cuts, and maximum longevity of the bits they get worn out evenly. if you can tolerate the space loss its definitely the way to go

[@davidtymon8258]

I did the tour in 2011 and they weren't shy about the plastic laminate range, quite proud if anything. I was more than a little surprised at just how much automation was used in their standard range and Bob (our guide) did claim that custom shop guitars go through the same process, but I guess he just meant the laser cutting of the top, back and sides. I got to play a few after the tour but being a lefty didn't have much choice, and although nice enough, I wasn't hugely overwhelmed by the feel or sound. I still prefer my trusty old acoustic... which meant I didn't feel compelled to spend several hundred dollars before leaving :)

[@autistichead8137]

I love my Martin 000-15M Streetmaster, it sounds amazing.

[@brabuspower100]

Great video, thanks.

[@fuffy442]

It's interesting hearing Chris' insights into the difference between a real luthier's concepts of guitar building vs mass production. Every video of this type makes me appreciate the guitar I own more and more. 🙂

[@paulabefumo4577]

Since I can't afford one of your guitars, I just bought a Martin 000-15sm. Not custom shop. I'm 69 and have owned quite a few guitars, including Taylor's. I just have to tell you I have never seen this level of craftsmanship out of a factory guitar. Still wish I could afford yours, though. In the meantime, I'm pretty impressed.

[@carlom.3737]

Loving these videos (saw the Taylor one). Please keep up the great content! As someone who owns factory and boutique guitars, it's eye opening to see how the Big Boys do it. Once the pandemic is over some friends and I are going to make the trek up to Santa Cruz to check out SCGC's shop.

[@motomanbill1959]

I went to the Factory in October of 2017, I was impressed and most of the guitars made there are made the same way. a ton of hands on for all models. You should go. Worthwhile.

[@mikegray-ehnert3238]

Growing up we had a glue factory in my home town. Here in SW WI the prevailing wind direction is from the west generally. So the factory was on the far east side of town. I moved to Dubuque, IA by the time I was in college in the mid70's. Yeah, they have a huge level of funk! (It was a hide glue factory.)

[@Sammywhat]

Love these review videos!! Keep em coming!! 🤠👍

[@davidrockett6927]

One huge benefit of using hide glue when joining tops is that it leaves (for the life of the guitar) an 100 percent invisible line where the two top pieces are joined. If you use Titebond, in time the glue joint will darken and you will always see a dark glue line where the joint was made. In addition, hide glue is an extremely strong joint. The smell isn’t as bad as you’ve said, just get a little fresh air circulating when joining the pieces.

[@briwood6328]

Been waiting for this 👍✌great videos man

[@markmiller5253]

Over 180 years of tradition and technology to build the world's best factory made guitar. Worth every penny. That's not to say a individual can't make a guitar that's better.

[@danielallen7384]

This guy builds guitars for a minimum of $15,000. The criticism isn't even warranted. Martin builds hundreds if not thousands of guitars to this guys one. Martin is more than capable of making guitars as beautiful as his given the time. His guitars are ones you literally sit out to display because they're a work of art. Not made to be played daily like most Martin's. The Martin tour guide should find another job because he's full of shit. That one piece of wood isn't worth $7,000. You could buy a fully built guitar from the same wood for $7,000 or less. It's like he doesn't understand that most people touring their plant are guitar players and know a lot about them. Especially to know that piece of wood isn't that expensive. I would've definitely called him out on it.

[@jordanblack2250]

This video could be called "We take a giant shit on Martin" haha 😄

[@jennifer6833]

You guys should react to Fender’s electric guitar factory or their custom shop! I’m loving hearing your opinions in this new series!

[@DougMen1]

Premier Guitar had a very in depth video tour of Martin, the best one I've seen.

[@scottakam]

Thanks guys. I got a USA made Martin a couple of years ago. Certainly not like a $10k guitar but the quality is very good. The only thing they didn't do well was the fret ends. They needed a bit of work. I believe they use Plek machines on all their USA guitars so the frets were perfectly level and the intonation is spot on.

[@stevescuba1978]

I was recently speaking with a custom guitar builder, and he swore that he had a neck returned to him for fret ends that were perfect when it left his shop. Humidity and temperature changes are really hard on necks

[@el34glo59]

Who's to say it's not like a custom 10k guitar? All that matters is how the wood amd pieces came together to create synergy. You don't have to spend a ton to get amazing tone. And I've bought up and down thr ladder to realize that.

[@raymondferguson3781]

the cnc mills drifted toward moving the table for rigidity and inertial resistance to chatter etc. a moving spindle can bounce or vibrate more easily. the laser cutter is probably built that way because it was an easy way to pair a laser with existing mill parts.

[@parickyates]

Ha ha ha, very funny guys, I own one of those counter top guitars. It’s what I can afford, works for me. I play it every day. Got me through many gigs. When I’m done paying college tuition and can afford one of your high class instruments I’ll be be able to laugh with you at people who own counter top guitars … on the other hand never mind. I was brought up not to laugh at people’s stuff. I’ll stick with the lower class folks, they’re grateful for what they have and usually do pretty well with less. Carry on, laugh away …

[@erics7712]

I agree. This really turned me off too. I was In the factory a few years ago and Dick Boak (look him up) and I were talking and there was a phenomenal player in front of us sampling guitars out of the museum showcases. I asked of who gets to play those and he said, “ that’s Julian Lennon”. So if you think laughing at the most historic and well known acoustic brand (who employs hundreds of American workers) in the world is cool, I think there are a lot of players that may feel the same as me.

[@valebliz]

Buy a fucking Yamaha then, it's better built and you won't be paying a grand for martin on the headstock

[@naelsyarif1405]

Yang di tertawakan adalah nilai yang tidak sebanding dengan kualitas, saya kira ini yg mereka maksudkan dengan nama besar tapi tidak menjamin kualitas dengan harga yg di tawarkan

[@dg111fu]

I was literally thinking the same thing 😂​@valebliz

[@Jacob_EstateAgent]

They are being real, i get it why your butt is hurting though, Paying for just brand name is bullshit, youre better off buying a guitar from an unknown luthier, and it will surely beat 99% guitars in terms of quality out there

[@zHumanfactor]

It was very interesting to get a luthier's perspective of a factory-built guitar. Martin didn't do too badly.

[@marcreno893]

Yea.. I really think martin guitars are gonna make a name for themselves

[@andresilva8444]

Man, I was thinking of the "lasers" Dr Evil bit and you did it! Great minds think alike!

[@toneman335]

I spoke with a former employee of Martin that worked there for several years. One of the jobs he had there was stringing up and playing the guitars just before being shipped to the guitar stores. I asked him what percentage of the guitars hade a great tone? He said about 20%.

[@angelg8445]

Custom Shop is the way to go if u get a Martin and can't get a boutique handbuilt guitar. Ive got a Custom Shop 000 Martin, its so resonant and has a torrefied top. Its ab as close as u can get to 'boutique' w/o spending 6-8k. Also Ive had Taylors, and if u can get one used for around 1500 that seems to be the sweet spot, or maybe Koa, aside from that u can get a 3 series for less than 2k, but once u start going up in price its not really a 'better' guitar, its still the same construction w/no extra attention to detail. At a certain point with factory made guitars, particularly w/high end Taylor u r just paying for upgrades on wood and pretty decoration. I would love one day to get a Bourgeois, w/a 'voiced' top and all hand made.

[@NoteConference]

@14:00 the footprint is the same for spindle movement or table movement. Lighter the workload you would lean toward the spindle/head moving (Gantry)

[@jipes]

Considering the desmise of Hide glue that you declare, you should have a look at Ken Parker Archtopery series he has quite an argument why Hide glue is far superior to any other synthetic glue like Titebond. It's really a cleaving subject on guitar builders

[@karffiol]

can you provide the link? Because when I watched his videos I am pretty sure he used two part epoxy glue when gluing braces for example.

[@jipes]

@@karffiol kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3OnqHmkmt1qZ80

[@RByrne]

I think a lot of people are missing the point. Stating the differences in how a mass produced guitar is made vs a luthier built guitar isnt necessarily being critical. You did take some cheap shots, but Martin guitars are fantastic and have earned their reputation. It's the final product and tone that matters, and Martin delivers.

[@larrydavis8249]

I suspect the laser cutter is designed that way strictly for the nesting of all the other machines around it. Plus if arranged properly (mirrored), you can maintain a safe maintenance aisle while the other machine is still operating.

[@LilyJaneH]

I kind of enjoy how hide glue smells. I tend to use LMII instruments glue for most things on my instruments. I use fish glue for lots of stuff as well. I use hot hide glue when I know that the part might need readjustment in the near future. I’m pretty new to guitar building, so I’ve had quite a few gluing mistakes. I also used a bunch of hot hide glue recently because I didn’t have any reversible glue left while waiting for a new shipment from LMI.

[@murphvienna1]

about "Phrasing Department", I guess they mean "Frasing", as in "Fräsen" (which is German for routing)

[@SR11266]

Exactly

[@williamcatalano1762]

There is a cool longer Eastman one. A guy did it back in 2013 in China I think it was? It doesn't show super technical things but it shows all the workers hand sanding stuff on a bunch of different things like violins, mandolins, and guitars. Shows some of their wood stocks for maple I think it was too.

[@CMRWoodworks]

Interesting stuff!

[@jonahguitarguy]

The up charge for Brazilian at Martin is around 7k. That’s prolly what he trying to say.

[@valentinkovshik]

23:33 "Fräsen" is milling or routing in German. Actually, in many languages (for example, in Ukrainian), this process, milling cutters, and router bits are also called using words similar to this (фреза [freza], фрезерування [frezeruvannia]). Probably, because the technology came here from Germany. I have never heard such a word in English though.

[@marmotsongs]

I was going to say that “fraise” is the French word for router bit (also strawberry).

[@valentinkovshik]

@@marmotsongs Yes, it seems to be similar in most European languages.

[@j.merkus]

Also in Dutch. It's spelled 'Frezen' but it's pronounced the same as 'Fräsen'.

[@gfurstnsu]

I believe the use of this word is a remanent of the German roots of Martin Company. I worked in a company, Norton Company, that had its roots in Sweden and remember they still used the the words from Sweden to describe different processes when they made the grinding wheels that they were famous for. This was true even though it was more than a century on from its founding in Worcester, MA.

[@MarvinHartmann452]

Yeah it comes from that word. ​@@marmotsongs

[@akachurak]

Watch the Martin guitar factory tour museum. I try to go once a year and I spend more time in the museum each time ! Free Tours are usually an hour but for small group and fee it’s two hours and you go down to the cnc floor!

[@jj339c]

CF Martin guitars hold their value. I’m not a so called fanboy, but I do love the history, story and what CF Martin Co. has contributed to our American tradition, culture and economy. If you own a Martin guitar, you own a legacy, period. I own a Fender Strat and Gibson Les Paul for the same reasons. My acoustics are a boutique D28 style made by a fine luthier in Greer, SC, PRS SE cut away electric acoustic and Martin D18. I have all the sound I need, but would love to own a slotted head 12 fret acoustic, probably Martin and Gibson J45. I believe Martin employees really love their work, take it very serious and do an amazing job given the volume they produce. My D18 came to me flawless, but since I use my guitars it didn’t stay that way long.

[@thomaspayne3021]

Need to realize that the lower end (affordable guitars) are made in Mexico. I didn't see any hidden rooms when I took the tour. The tour is the Willy Wonks tour for guitars. Well worth the time.

[@therealmattmendoza]

What do you think about scalloping and voicing the bracing on an off the shelf guitar? There are a handful of videos of people using finger files to take material off of their martin/epiphone/whatever acoustic's x bracing. Do you think this is a worthwhile mod?

[@LK-oi6bq]

Not a good idea. If you screw up, it's not reversable.

[@Schiemannguitars]

This reminds of mystery science theater 3000 for luthiers

[@user-oq1cd9oj4v]

I currently own 5 Martin guitars including a 1948 0018. I also have a 000X1 which is an American (not Mexican) made "plastic countertop" guitar. This guitar is not the best sounding of my Martins, but it is the only one that I would take up to the trailer when camping. It is the perfect guitar to withstand the heat and humidity changes of camping, and when sitting outside, playing and singing, who can tell the difference between this and my solid wood Martins.

[@jerryjonas8178]

I wondering if the laser cutter head is stationary while the work moves because all the circuitry etc is in the head. Also, having gone to the tour, there may be questions you asked that aren't answered in the video. For instance, I think they do test the top as they are finishing the bracing.

[@RobHinkforth]

If you guys could answer this question, I would be eternally grateful. Would a Taylor AD22 Mahony do well in a tropical country with high humidity? My Martin mahogany does really well in such an environment. My impression of a Taylor is that they are high maintenance guitars whereas a well built Martin isn't as high maintenance. I am thinking of buying a AD22, I live in Costa Rica and am wondering ( in your opinion ) will it hold up well to the high humidity down here. My Martin 000m 15 does.

[@mrz80]

Funny that the first instrument he points out is a maple bodied dreadnought. When I took the tour in the late 90s they had a maple bodied dreadnought (the fabled D-60) on display. It was much brighter and more in-your-face than a typical Martin dread. I remember thinking it was a dreadnought for a lead guitarist :D

[@dvargaaw]

I sure would like to see a video on Eastman guitars and your guys thoughts!!!

[@Dave73nl]

You can laugh about the 'plastic' and factury made guitars but for me it's only a 10 years saving project to buy one of yours ;) Love youre stuff keep going and keep it open too for not Petreons!

[@jamesakers1175]

It would be nice to see you do a tour of Guild Guitars as a comparison to say the Gibson. As most know a former Gibson employee helped set up the newer Guild factory.

[@talesterrorandtorahpodcast8127]

As far as the shaping the braces….a Martin rep once said that Martin takes a certain sound and builds a box around it”. I think they found a bracing that works and sticks with it

[@0BobRoss0]

Damn these videos! Thought I was sold on a taylor 4 series or up. Now I think I'm leaning towards Martin. Wish I could afford a handmade guitar but its gonna have to be from a factory.

[@dm9151]

I ordered a HD35 Lefty from Martin in 2019 I wanted the Amber tone color on it. Now that is a stock color now then it was stock on right handed models. So since I wanted the different color it had to be done in the custom shop it only cost 300 extra but it took nine months to complete. And the guitar is not listed as a HD35 its a Martin Custom. not to bad for $3300. through sweetwater

[@GuitarQuackery]

The only "inlays" I like to have on my guitars are the side dots on the neck.

[@chrisphobia]

More please

[@chrislocke1042]

I bought a cheap Martin as far as Martin guitar goes. And on a "I'm bored" thought I went up to thier factory for a tour.. It was the greatest thing I could of did for very little money.. You are up close and personal with the employees watching them do their work..

[@aesoundforge]

Ive done a lot of work on violins. My luthier buddy kept telling me to use traditional hide glue. I use it now and will never go back. Its great stuff for violins anyway...

[@rzh3443]

There is a video of a very skilled Martin employee hand carving braces. I suspect it’s in the custom area. It does not show any top tone tapping , or the like. Breedlove is using digital technology to determine fundamental top tones and adjust the bracing and top thickness. Several YT videos on that. A lot of folks love that deep low E and A string sound that a Martin provides, regardless of the production techniques!

[@mburtondavis]

I live not too far away from Martin and want to go to the factory and take the tour. Might as well.

[@patrickmorgan4006]

It's closed to the public right now due to Covid, but do take the tour when they re-open. It's well worth your time. You can also tour their museum while you are there. All for no charge.

[@TruenorthmtGod]

I have to try one of your guitars. I have a hd28 and a hd 35. Let me say this I’ve tried hundreds of guitars from Martin. Not all guitars are the same from Martin. So many hd I’ve tried but when you find a canon from them it’s a winner. Just to inconsistent. I’ve yet to try a driftwood. I’d love to.

[@elmariachi451]

I'd love to hear your impressions on a walk through of the PRS factory.

[@mobilfone2234]

22:50 the "frasing department" is related to their German roots, "fräsen" means routing, here the binding channel....

[@bobacim]

You use CNC as well, right?

[@FlowtnWitWalden]

Hey I took the Martin factory tour 21 years ago and don't recall the overhead rail they're walking on. Everyone was working on open benches as I recall and the tour took us right through people's work space. I think they've added more CNC's and automation since then. Also This is the first time I've watched your channel so I apologize in advance if you've already done it... I'd love to see a Yairi Guitar factory reaction video. Throw some love to the Japanese craftsmen in the hills of the Gifu Prefecture!

[@edsautter51]

They connected the sawmill with the factory to gain space. The overhead area is looking down into the sawmill as they were on two levels. I worked there in the 80's and it wasn't there then. I spent time in both buildings and it was an up hill walk to the main plant from the mill. The mill was closed as they couldn't get lumber in quality and also from the countries any longer.

[@stevekirby7333]

Typically the moving workbed is more rigid and accurate. The moving mass is also usually less than moving a complete workhead around, allowing for faster cutting speeds/cycle times.

[@tankhalffull]

I've watched a few of your video reviews now.., it really doesn't seem like you put each instrument review into perspective, based on price point, materials (comparing HPL guitars to solid wood guitars..), construction..., then taking into account that when viewing your site, the first guitar I looked at had a "base price" of $15K..., there's a sense I get that you're looking down your nose in most of your reviews... just my two-cents... the last point I have to make is your comment regarding inlays.., not trying to be rude, but several of the guitar inlays I viewed on your site cross the gaudy line...

[@DriftwoodGuitars]

Cool man. I can’t help that you get that feeling. To each their own.