THE MARTIN MODERN DELUXE DREADNOUGHTS, A NEW TAKE ON A CLASSIC 

Earlier this year Martin introduced the new Modern Deluxe line of Acoustic guitars. Modern Deluxe guitars are Martin's modern take on a vintage Martin and is currently available on 4 models, two dreadnought models (the D-18 and D-28) as well as two smaller-bodied acoustics (the 000-28 and OM-28).

All four of these Modern Deluxe models share multiple features including a VTS (Vintage Tone System) Spruce Top, dovetail neck joints and natural protein glue construction. These combined features give these new guitars the tone of a rich and fully aged guitar. 

WHAT IS A VINTAGE TONE SYSTEM TOP (VTS)? So  

At the end of the day, a VTS top is a top that has been put through a process to get it to feel and play like a vintage Martin guitar.

VTS acts much like a time machine in which Martin can target certain time periods and age the top/braces to that era. This focused method allows Martin to recreate not only the pleasing visual aesthetics of a vintage guitar but also reproduce the special tones previously reserved for vintage instruments.

Further, Martin Guitar’s Research and Development (R&D) team rediscovered a process used by our craftsmen and craftswomen in the early 1900s to final dress the lacquer on our instruments by hand. The end result is a warm glow appearance that is as enticing to the eye as it is to the touch. The Vintage Gloss finish leaves the guitar with a satin appearance, far from the appearance of a satin spray.

Now, let's take a deeper look at the D-18 and D-28 Modern Deluxe guitars.

MARTIN D-18 MODERN DELUXE

The look is unlike anything in Martin's current production line to date with East Indian rosewood binding, stylish gold frets, gold open-gear tuners, and a unique 1930s style script logo inlaid in pearl on the headstock. Some ultra-modern features include a titanium truss rod, Liquidmetal^® bridge pins with red dots, and a composite carbon fiber bridge plate that boosts volume without adding weight. And we’ve included a new neck shape that is slightly asymmetrical for maximum hand comfort up and down the fretboard. This guitar is anything but standard.

MARTIN D-28 MODERN DELUXE

The look is unlike anything in our production line to date with European flamed maple binding, stylish gold frets, gold open-gear tuners, and a unique 1930s style script logo inlaid in pearl on the headstock. Some ultra-modern features include a titanium truss rod, Liquidmetal bridge pins with red dots, and a composite carbon fiber bridge plate that boosts volume without adding weight. And we’ve included a new neck shape that is slightly asymmetrical for maximum hand comfort up and down the fretboard. This guitar is anything but standard.

THE BOTTOM LINE

If a Martin is on your radar and you like the idea of a vintage instrument with the benefits of modern appointments, the Modern Deluxe line is for you.  If you like a little more even tonal response the D-18 may be your choice, and if you like the big booming bass, then the D-28 is the instrument for you.