Best Martin Guitar Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars 2026
Alright, so you're looking at a Martin Dreadnought. Smart move. They're the benchmark, the gold standard for a reason. Whether you're cutting through a loud band, laying down a fingerstyle track in the studio, or just want a guitar that feels right in your hands, a Martin D is a serious contender. Let's break down what makes them special and which ones are actually worth the hype.
Last updated: September 19, 2026
⚡ The best dreadnought acoustic guitars in 2026 are Martin Guitar Custom Shop D HPW (top pick), Martin Guitar Custom Shop D Black Walnut for tighter budgets, and Martin Guitar Custom Shop D 1935 Sunburst for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $1,374–$11,115, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Martin Guitar Custom Shop D HPW
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Bluegrass
Campfire Sessions
Singer-Songwriter
Key Feature:
This guitar uses a solid spruce top and mahogany body for a strong, warm sound. It features an ebony fingerboard with fancy Maltese Snowflake inlays and Grover machine heads. It is a premium-priced instrument made in the USA with a case included. Best for players who want solid wood tone without extra electronics.
PROS
- • Solid premium bearclaw sitka spruce top
- • Solid premium sinker mahogany body
- • Ebony fingerboard with Maltese Snowflake inlays
- • Grover StaTite machine heads for tuning stability
CONS
- • High price point limits accessibility
- • No electronics included for amplification
- • Flamed maple binding adds visual bulk
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 616884
$11,115
#2
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Martin Guitar Custom Shop D Black Walnut
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Country
Singer-Songwriter
Key Feature:
This Custom Shop D Black Walnut is a real treat. The black walnut gives it a focused, woody tone that’s fantastic for fingerstyle or recording; it’s a premium-priced instrument, but the build and materials justify the investment. It’s ideal for players who want a unique Martin sound and appreciate a comfortable, classic feel.
PROS
- • The black walnut back and sides deliver a uniquely warm, complex, and responsive tone.
- • Solid spruce top provides excellent projection and a bright, articulate high-end.
- • Ebony fingerboard and 16” radius offer a smooth, comfortable playing experience for fast lines.
- • Custom Shop build quality ensures impeccable craftsmanship and exceptional attention to detail.
CONS
- • Black walnut can be a less versatile tonewood, leaning towards mid-range frequencies.
- • The faux tortoise pickguard is a stylistic choice some players might prefer to replace.
- • The 1.75” nut width might feel narrow for players accustomed to wider necks.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 616333
$4,573
#3
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Martin Guitar Custom Shop D 1935 Sunburst
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Folk
Campfire Sessions
Key Feature:
This Custom Shop D is a serious instrument – the Adirondack top and Cocobolo back create a voice that's both powerful and incredibly nuanced. The 16” fingerboard makes it a joy to play, and the attention to detail in the Custom Shop build is undeniable. It's perfect for experienced players who demand top-tier tone and craftsmanship.
PROS
- • Adirondack top delivers powerful projection and sparkling, complex overtones.
- • Cocobolo back and sides provide rich warmth and sustain, a beautiful tonal balance.
- • Ebony fingerboard and 16” radius offer exceptional playability and comfortable feel.
- • Custom Shop construction guarantees meticulous detail and superior build quality.
CONS
- • Cocobolo can be susceptible to cracking if humidity levels aren't carefully managed.
- • The 1935 Sunburst finish, while gorgeous, adds to the premium-priced nature of the instrument.
- • Dreadnought size might be unwieldy for smaller players or those preferring a more compact instrument.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 616289
$9,157
#4
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar D-12E -01 Koa
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Bluegrass
Country
Rock
Key Feature:
This D-12E Koa is a serious step up in tone and build quality. The Koa top provides a warm, complex voice that gets better with age, and the E1 electronics are surprisingly good for stage work. It’s a great choice for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate a refined acoustic experience.
PROS
- • Koa top delivers a focused, mature tone with shimmering highs
- • E1 pickup system offers clean, amplified sound without feedback issues
- • Richlite fingerboard provides a consistently smooth and playable feel
- • Solid construction and meticulous bracing ensure excellent projection and sustain
CONS
- • Koa’s tonal complexity might not suit players seeking a very bright, immediate sound
- • Richlite, while durable, lacks the traditional feel of ebony for some players
- • The D-12E body size can be a bit bulky for smaller players or travel
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 556294
$1,374
Martin Guitar Custom Shop D-18
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Singer-Songwriter
Folk
Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar uses a bright spruce top with warm mahogany body, giving it a balanced voice. The ebony fingerboard plays smoothly, and the bone saddle adds clarity. It suits players who want a traditional dreadnought sound without electronics.
PROS
- • Solid Adirondack spruce top for bright response
- • Mahogany back and sides for warm midrange
- • Ebony fingerboard offers smooth playability
- • Bone saddle delivers clear high-end attack
CONS
- • Neck material is not specified in description
- • No electronic system included for amplification
- • Dreadnought size may feel large for smaller players
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 644558
$5,557
Martin Guitar Super HD-28
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Folk
Rock
Singer-Songwriter
Key Feature:
This guitar packs extra punch with 20% more body volume and uses solid spruce and rosewood throughout. The ebony fingerboard and diamond inlays add a premium feel, but the heavy weight might be tiring for long sessions. It's a powerful, high-end choice for players who want loud, organic sound without extra electronics.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top for strong, clear attack
- • Solid rosewood back and sides for warmth
- • 20% more interior volume for loud projection
- • Diamond inlays and herringbone binding detail
CONS
- • Heavy weight may tire large players
- • No electronics or preamp included
- • High price point for standard dreadnought
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 629402
$5,912
Martin Guitar D-12E Retro Nat
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Singer-Songwriter
Folk
Rock
Key Feature:
This dreadnought brings a bright spruce top paired with warm Sapele wood for a balanced sound. The included pickup helps it cut in band settings without losing clarity. It suits players who want a modern dreadnought with reliable electronics and a sturdy build. The natural finish adds character but means extra care is needed to keep it looking good.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers bright attack and clarity
- • Sapele back and sides offer warm midrange presence
- • Martin E1 pickup provides clear, direct monitoring
- • Includes soft case for safe transport and storage
CONS
- • Natural finish requires more frequent oiling
- • Road Series lacks the classic vintage feel of older models
- • Made in Mexico may differ from US-made tone expectations
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629368
$2,096
Martin Guitar DC-10E Modern BLK
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Bluegrass
Campfire Sessions
Key Feature:
This dreadnought has a spruce top that hits hard right out of the box. The Sapele wood adds a nice warmth that blends well with the black finish. It comes with a pickup so you can play on stage without issues. Perfect for players who want a big sound and reliable electronics.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top offers strong initial projection
- • Sapele back and sides add warm, complex tone
- • Includes Martin E1 pickup for easy playing
- • Dreadnought shape suits big strumming and cutting
CONS
- • Heavy weight may tire players during long sets
- • Black finish shows fingerprints and scratches easily
- • Made in Mexico limits some US market buyers
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629360
$1,867
Martin Guitar DC-13E Modern Nat
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Campfire Sessions
Country
Folk
Key Feature:
This guitar sounds bright thanks to the Koa back and spruce top. The E1 pickup makes it easy to play at gigs without extra amps. It feels solid in the hand with its dreadnought shape. Best for players who like a clear, cutting tone.
PROS
- • Premium Koa wood gives a bright, cutting top-end sound.
- • Solid spruce top provides strong projection and clear attack.
- • E1 pickup system delivers reliable, balanced output.
- • Dreadnought shape offers comfortable playing for large hands.
CONS
- • Natural finish shows wear quickly without extra protection.
- • No specific body depth listed limits perceived volume.
- • Neck material is generic hardwood, lacking specific grain details.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 629357
$2,291
#10
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Martin Guitar D28 1933 Ambertone
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Campfire Sessions
Country
Bluegrass
Key Feature:
This dreadnought plays with a big voice thanks to its solid wood top and sides. The antique white binding gives it a clean, old-school look that matches the 1933 color. It is a great choice for players who want pure acoustic sound without extra gadgets.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top offers strong attack and projection
- • Solid rosewood back and sides provide deep warmth
- • Antique white binding adds classic vintage styling
- • Includes hard case for safe transport and storage
CONS
- • No electronics listed for amplified play
- • Scale length is longer than some modern players prefer
- • Made in USA may carry higher cost than imports
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 628528
$5,156
#11
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Martin Guitar D-28 Satin
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Folk
Bluegrass
Campfire Sessions
Key Feature:
This dreadnought brings a solid spruce top and solid rosewood body for a balanced tone. The mahogany neck feels sturdy under the hand. It is perfect for players who want a classic acoustic sound without extra electronics.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top drives strong, clear attack
- • Solid rosewood back and sides add warmth
- • Mahogany neck feels solid and stable
- • Antique white binding adds classic detail
CONS
- • No built-in electronics for amplification
- • Satin finish shows wear more easily
- • No weight data listed in description
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 563899
$4,010
#12
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Martin Guitar HD-28
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Folk
Bluegrass
Rock
Key Feature:
This dreadnought feels solid and ready to play right out of the box. The spruce top hits hard while the rosewood body adds warmth. It suits players who want a classic, heavy feel without extra gear. Just remember it has no pickup for stage use.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top drives strong attack and response
- • Full solid rosewood back and sides for rich depth
- • Ebony fingerboard offers smooth playability under fingers
- • Factory strings included for immediate ready-to-play use
CONS
- • No electronics listed means no built-in pickup
- • Heavier than many modern lute models due to dense woods
- • Lacks a sound hole cutout or specific model number
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 556282
$4,927
#13
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar D-10E Retro Nat
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Bluegrass
Folk
Country
Key Feature:
This guitar hits hard with a bright spruce top and warm Sapele body. The Martin E1 pickup makes it ready for gigs without extra gear. It suits players who want a big, traditional dreadnought sound. The natural finish looks classic but needs care to stay looking good.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top provides a strong, bright attack for strumming.
- • Sapele back and sides offer a warm, mid-focused tone.
- • Martin E1 pickup delivers clear, low-noise amplification.
- • Dreadnought shape gives a big, powerful sound for stages.
CONS
- • Natural finish shows wear easily without a glossy coat.
- • No case included in the base price package.
- • Made in Mexico, which some players prefer to avoid.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 629376
$1,557
#14
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Martin Guitar DE Retro Plus Granadillo
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Campfire Sessions
Folk
Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a classic road performer with a spruce top and warm granadillo wood. It has a built-in pickup that should handle gigging well. The hardwood neck and ebony fingerboard suggest a sturdy build, though the weight isn't listed. It fits players who want a reliable dreadnought that sounds good on stage.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top for bright attack
- • Granadillo back and sides offer warmth
- • Martin E1 pickup handles low notes
- • Classic dreadnought shape plays well
CONS
- • Neck material is only described as hardwood
- • Weight is not listed in the specs
- • Missing specific tonal character details
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 629337
$3,265
#15
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Guitar D-13E Retro Walnut
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Folk
Country
Key Feature:
This dreadnought uses a spruce top and rich walnut for a balanced sound. The ebony fingerboard feels great under your fingers, and the pickup helps you get heard on stage. It suits players who want a reliable workhorse without needing extra gear.
PROS
- • Solid walnut back and sides give a warm, deep tone.
- • Spruce top provides clear attack and bright response.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers smooth playability for fast runs.
- • Built-in pickup makes it ready for gigging immediately.
CONS
- • Made in Mexico may limit access to some US players.
- • No case included in the base price of the package.
- • Scale length of 25.4 inches is standard but fixed.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629365
$2,234
Every dreadnought acoustic guitars that matches
100 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Martin Guitar Super D-18 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,468 |
| 17 | Martin Guitar D28 Authentic 1937 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $12,605 |
| 18 | Martin Guitar GPE Inception Maple | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $6,302 |
| 19 | Martin Guitar D Jr E LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,030 |
| 20 | Martin Guitar D Jr E StreetMaster New | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,259 |
| 21 | Martin Guitar D Jr E | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,030 |
| 22 | Martin Guitar DE Retro Mahogany | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,749 |
| 23 | Martin Guitar HD28E LRB | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,729 |
| 24 | Martin Guitar D35 Sunburst | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,384 |
| 25 | Martin Guitar D28 Satin 1935 Burst | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,319 |
| 26 | Martin Guitar D28 Satin | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,319 |
| 27 | Martin Guitar D28 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,927 |
| 28 | Martin Guitar D17 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,854 |
| 29 | Martin Guitar HD28 Sunburst | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,500 |
| 30 | Martin Guitar HD35 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,500 |
| 31 | Martin Guitar D45 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $14,324 |
| 32 | Martin Guitar D-28 Billy Strings | Nut width 43.7 mm (1.72") · Scale 635 mm (25") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,614 |
| 33 | Martin Guitar O'ahu HG-28 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632.5 mm (24.9") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,385 |
| 34 | Martin Guitar Custom D-18 | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $4,583 |
| 35 | Martin Guitar D-16E-02 LH 2024 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,036 |
| 36 | Martin Guitar D-16E-01 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,946 |
| 37 | Martin Guitar CFM 50th Anniversary | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $72,197 |
| 38 | Martin Guitar D-19 190th anniversary | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $4,354 |
| 39 | Martin Guitar D-28 Authentic 1937 VTS Aged | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $12,891 |
| 40 | Martin Guitar D-18 Authentic 1937 Aged | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $11,334 |
| 41 | Martin Guitar HD-35 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,156 |
| 42 | Martin Guitar D-28 Rich Robinson | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 633 mm (24.92") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $9,969 |
| 43 | Martin Guitar D-200 Deluxe | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $171,889 |
| 44 | Martin Guitar D18 Authentic 1937 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $9,042 |
| 45 | Martin Guitar D-28 Sunburst Lefthand | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,010 |
| 46 | Martin Guitar D-35 Sunburst | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,583 |
| 47 | Martin Guitar D-42 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $9,167 |
| 48 | Martin Guitar D-28 Sunburst | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,927 |
| 49 | Martin Guitar GPE Inception Maple LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $6,302 |
| 50 | Martin Guitar GPCE Inception Maple New | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,958 |
| 51 | Martin Guitar D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th LH | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $7,161 |
| 52 | Martin Guitar D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $7,161 |
| 53 | Martin Guitar D Jr E Street Legend Burst | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,374 |
| 54 | Martin Guitar D35 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,156 |
| 55 | Martin Guitar D18 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,296 |
| 56 | Martin Guitar D18 Satin | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,723 |
| 57 | Martin Guitar D42 Modern Deluxe | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $8,021 |
| 58 | Martin Guitar HD28 Ambertone | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,500 |
| 59 | Martin Guitar D18 Satin 1935 Burst LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,723 |
| 60 | Martin Guitar D17 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,437 |
| 61 | Martin Guitar HD28 Sunburst LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,500 |
| 62 | Martin Guitar HD35 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,500 |
| 63 | Martin Guitar D45 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $14,095 |
| 64 | Martin Guitar D-28 Billy Strings LH | Nut width 43.7 mm (1.72") · Scale 635 mm (25") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,729 |
| 65 | Martin Guitar D-X2E Billy Strings | Nut width 43.7 mm (1.72") · Scale 635 mm (25") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,374 |
| 66 | Martin Guitar D18 Sunburst | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,583 |
| 67 | Martin Guitar D18 Ambertone | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,583 |
| 68 | Martin Guitar D42 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $9,511 |
| 69 | Martin Guitar D-16E-01 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,864 |
| 70 | Martin Guitar D-15M LH | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,520 |
| 71 | Martin Guitar DSS-17 Whiskey Sunset | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,577 |
| 72 | Martin Guitar D-35 Johnny Cash | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $7,792 |
| 73 | Martin Guitar D-15M | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,176 |
| 74 | Martin Guitar D-X2E Brazilian Burst Special | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $1,259 |
| 75 | Martin Guitar D-10E Retro Sapele | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $1,397 |
| 76 | Martin Guitar D-16E-02 2024 | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $3,036 |
| 77 | Martin Guitar D-X2E Rosewood | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $1,030 |
| 78 | Martin Guitar D-X2E Mahogany LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $1,007 |
| 79 | Martin Guitar D-X2E Mahogany | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $1,007 |
| 80 | Martin Guitar DX1E Mahogany | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $893 |
| 81 | Martin Guitar DX1E Koa | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $858 |
| 82 | Martin Guitar D-28 Modern Deluxe | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $6,531 |
| 83 | Martin Guitar D-28E Modern Deluxe | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $6,875 |
| 84 | Martin Guitar DX Johnny Cash | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $858 |
| 85 | Martin Guitar DX2E Ziricote Burst | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $1,007 |
| 86 | Martin Guitar D-15M StreetMaster | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $2,577 |
| 87 | Martin Guitar DX1EL Mahogany LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $858 |
| 88 | Martin Guitar DSS-16E 1935 Burst | Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,781 |
| 89 | Martin Guitar DSS-16E Black Smoke | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,781 |
| 90 | Martin Guitar DSS-16E Cherry Cola | Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,781 |
| 91 | Martin Guitar HD-28 Semiquincentennial | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $10,313 |
| 92 | Martin Guitar D-45 1938 Project 91-11 | Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $170,754 |
| 93 | Martin Guitar D28 Sunburst | Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,269 |
| 94 | Martin Guitar HD28E | Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,728 |
| 95 | Martin Guitar D-18 Modern Deluxe | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,926 |
| 96 | Martin Guitar D-18E Modern Deluxe | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $6,073 |
| 97 | Martin Guitar GPCE Inception Maple LH New | Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,958 |
| 98 | Martin Guitar HD28 | Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,156 |
| 99 | Martin Guitar D35 Ambertone | Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,500 |
| 100 | Martin Guitar CFM 50th Anniversary | Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,375 |
Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 523 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,088
from $143 to $6,646
Nut width
median 43.7 mm (1.72")
from 42.5 mm (1.67") to 45 mm (1.77") · 482 models
Scale
median 645 mm (25.39")
from 629 mm (24.76") to 650 mm (25.59") · 495 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 406 mm (15.98") · 69 models
Fingerboard
ebony, rosewood, walnut
most common · 314 models
Frets
median 20
from 20 to 21 · 435 models
Neck profile
C, V, U
most common · 46 models
Body
mahogany, sapele, okoume
most common · 29 models
Weight
median 5 kg
from 1.76 kg to 10 kg · 5 models
How to Choose the Best Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
1
Heritage & Design
Martin's dreadnought design, pioneered in the 1910s, isn't just tradition; it's a recipe for a balanced, powerful tone. That large body size projects like crazy and delivers a fundamental low-end thump that's hard to replicate. It's the sound you hear on countless classic records.
2
Tonewood Selection
Sitka spruce tops are common for their responsiveness and clarity, but the real magic happens with the back and sides. Mahogany offers a warmer, more compressed tone-great for rhythm playing and cutting through a mix. Rosewood (East Indian or Brazilian, if you're lucky) gives you that rich, complex overtone series and shimmering highs - killer for fingerstyle and recording.
3
Bracing Patterns
Martin's bracing patterns-often forward-shifted X-bracing-directly influence the guitar's responsiveness and tone. Newer patterns like the VTS (Vintage Tone System) are designed to mimic the characteristics of aged, broken-in Martins. It's subtle, but it can make a difference in projection and sustain.
4
Neck Profile & Playability
Martin's neck profiles vary-from the slim, modern "Modified Low Oval" to the more traditional "D" shape. This is hugely important for comfort and playability. A neck that feels good in your hand is the most important factor, period. Don't buy a guitar based solely on specs - play it first.
5
Construction Quality
The build quality is generally excellent, but it's not flawless. Pay attention to fretwork - sharp fret ends are a sign of a rushed job. Martin's higher-end models have tighter tolerances and more meticulous detail, which translates to better intonation and a more refined playing experience.
Buying Guide
A Martin Dreadnought is an investment. Don't fall for the vintage hype unless you know what you're doing and have deep pockets. Lower-end models (like the Road Series) can be decent for beginners, but they'll often cut corners on the bracing and tonewoods, sacrificing that signature Martin tone. Spending a little more for a Standard Series or Authentic Series model will get you a lot closer to the real deal, but even then, play before you buy - every guitar is different.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 100 of 523 dreadnought acoustic guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brazilian is rarer and generally considered more resonant with a more complex overtone response. East Indian is a fantastic substitute and offers a similar, though slightly less nuanced, tone. The price difference is substantial, though.
Not necessarily. A well-cared-for vintage or used Martin might have better tone due to age and wood settling. However, you're taking a risk - get it checked out by a luthier before you commit.
It usually refers to modifications made to the bracing or internal components to alter the guitar's tone. It's a gamble; sometimes it works, sometimes it's a disaster. Tread carefully.
It depends on the neck profile and action. Martin's often have a slightly thicker neck than some modern guitars, which some players find less comfortable. A setup by a qualified luthier can make a world of difference.
It's big, no doubt. But that size is what gives it its projection and low-end power. If you're smaller in stature, it might be a little unwieldy, but the tone is worth it. Try before you buy.
