Martin Slope Shoulder Guitar For Sale (Jan 2023 Update)

Overall: Played one 10 or so years ago but didn’t get because of other obligations. Never forgot how it played and sounded! Finally got one and it is a truly excellent guitar. I have a Gibson CJ165EC, which I love, and the 000-15M is a totally different sound, which I wanted. Needed some Martin jangle! Out of the box fantastic. The mahogany tone is unmistakable and rich! Neck is a thin Martin neck, which I’m fine with. I’ve been playing for 53+ years so I kinda know what I’m talking about. Putting in a Fishman rate earth soundhole pickup and this will be my busking guitar! Really happy with the guitar and with zZounds. Delivery was fast and purchase was flawless. Highly recommend both the Martin 000-15M and zZounds!!Reverend

I ordered this online after discussing the purchase with Sam Ash Staff, it was in short supply, they scouted all Sam Ash Stores, they found one and it arrived two weeks early just after christmas. My wife loves it! It's her 2nd Martin Guitar and this one is her prize instrument. The staff at our local store were really helpful both with the Order process and preparing the the guitar upon arrival at the store. I asked about the 1st year instrument maintenance option and they were able to update our purchase to include that. The guitar sounds great, my wife loves playing it even though she is a novice. Totally satisfied with the instrument and the staff that helped obtain it. Thanks guys.Britinusa

I have wanted a triple-aught mahogany guitar. I preferred the Guild D20 dread to the Martin D15, but was open-minded about which 000 brand. Didn't like videos on Taylor and Alvarez all hog orchestra models and was very impressed with the Martin videos. So ordered this. Was also a big fan of Kenneth Pattengale and I'm With Her who use the 00-15 model. Let the box sit half a day. Upon opening it I was greeted by this amazing scent. The guitar came set up with low action, slightly detuned. The bridge and fretboard appeared to be stained morado (a very hard and valid wood, harder than rosewood but not quite as much as ebony). Tuners are Grover Statites. They are firm and perhaps a little too sensitive to sometimes dial in. The body was a gorgeous chocolate with amber-orange highlights. The guitar was immaculate. Martin Lifespan 2.0 PB 12-54 strings. It sounded really nice with the ebony pins which were fit absolutely perfectly. However, I had already purchased Blisstime unbleached bone pins which fit perfectly too. I got even more sustain and a more melodic tone, along with greater volume. This improved the strumming tone immensely. May switch to nickel-bronze 12-56 strings, but I will wait for now. The guitar is super-light and weird to hold after dreads. The tone is dark (as expected) but ringing. There is the hog compression, but I was amazed how great this sounded brand new. I did humidity it overnight. Intonation was spot on. The frets were dressed wonderfully with no protruding ends. No truss rod wrench, nor polishing cloth like with my DSS-17. The case had a small ding in the tolex which I was able to bond into place cleanly and disguise. The case is very nice, but without built-in humidification like my Guild. The tone is beautifully even and not bass-heavy like the D15. The treble keeps up with the expected mids. The end pin was not pushed in all the way by me as it was very tight. May opt to have that professionally assessed. I don't gig, so a pickup is not for me. I did get a tortoise pickguard. This is definitely a keeper which I will pamper.Tom

So, this has always been a dream guitar for me. The weird thing is, I’ve actually owned one before but was not impressed with the sound. I had read in previous reviews that the 000-17’s have a cheap guitar sound, and when I owned the previous guitar I was in agreement with those reviews…so, sold it. However, a year later I played one at a local guitar shop and it punched me in the face!!! It was crunchy, punchy, resonant, and had some real cojones to it! I WAS LIKE “WHAT!!!” This ain’t the same guitar I remember, so, I ordered a new one online. When it arrived, my brand new 000-17 sounded just like my first one (Solid tone, but kinda lifeless). I was pretty let down. I was wondering what the deal was. What was so different between the two that I’ve owned, and the one I played at the shop?? So, before I just sold it AGAIN, I put some Martin Retro 13 gauge strings on it and ebony bridge pins on it and BOOOOM!! There it was!! That had to have been the difference between the two I owned and the punchy bad boy in the shop. This guitar is now the all around banger I hoped and heard it would be!! This guitar should be sold with 13 gauge retros on it, because as the reviews state it does sound slightly cheap with the 12’s. When you add the 13’s it’s like putting a set of nuts on it! This thing deserves an overall 5.0 rating, but I think people (Like I did) get rid of it or bash it before they find out what a beast this thing can be! If you are looking to buy one…DO IT!! Then, add 13 gauge Martin Retro strings (And bone bridge pins), and just wait for this bad boy to attack!! I seriously could go my whole life with this one guitar because of it’s character, voice, tone, punchiness, crunch, resonance, playability, craftsmanship, KILLER STYLE, and all around package!! Just ignore the negative reviews and listen to your boy… GET THIS GUITAR!!Zach Scoggins

I know this is alot of money to spend on a guitar. I am a working man too. I firmly believe this is the most money that a player should be spending on any guitar. I am a guitar PLAYER. I DONT buy guitars to hang on the wall so I can appreciate the gloss finish and drool over the pearl inlays. When I buy a guitar, I intend to play it until it is worn. I have done that with all of my acoustic and my electric guitars. If you are the kind of player who knows a few chords, and likes to sit down and strum a pretty guitar with figured inlays and flashy hardware, this guitar definitely is not the instrument for you. When you buy guitar, you can change every part on it, except the body and the neck. If you're going to buy a guitar with intent to change the neck and body, why not just buy a guitar with the neck and body you want, and change the hardware? If you are a player who is professional, serious, and wants to make a sound for yourself, well this guitar is the guitar for you. Yes, It DOES have the neck AND the body you want. The neck feels incredible. It is UNPARALLELED when it comes to feeling this guitar. Don't believe me? Find one and try playing it. It's like the Rickenbacker of acoustic instruments. The top of the guitar is the first thing that the sound bounces off of, and the shape and bracing in this acoustic allows for the hardwood of the spruce to do its job; to vibrate and give the guitar an excellent punch, and to twang and crunch when picking each string individually. It is an unbeatable sound from the first strum, but the real treat is the resonation. The sides of a guitar are where the it's sound rings after strumming. When you let this guitar ring, it gets a deep, rich, and woody sound from the mahogany sides. Somehow, this guitar is both punchy and gives a solid chimey crunch, but also resonates warmly with a full, rich, and deep sound. I have played and owned MANY guitars, but this one takes the cake. It is the best acoustic I have ever played.Marty

My first gut reaction to this guitar was repulsion. To be fair, I unboxed it in very unflattering light. It was strung with Retro monel strings which I personally do not like at all. I looked at the flat, Whiskey Sunset finish. All splochy and just cringe I wanted to yeet the damned thing. I strummed it twice and put it back in the case.

Two weeks later, one morning I tried it again. I sat in great morning sunlight and noticed it was a guitar going for a totally different vibe than anything else out there. And once I understood what it was it made sense. And I began falling in love with this thing.

Construction is perfect. Materials are top shelf. My top is heavily bear clawed as well as figured. Growth rings are parallel and very tight. Super high quality wood, actually. The neck is one piece mahogany, not glued up. The neck wood is also perfectly quarter sawn. The fret oard wood, though an uncommon rosewood has the basic density and pore structure of ebony, ut us a uniform dark cocoa brown color. Mine looke l8ke brown ebony. And it takes a polish like ebony will. You just dont find this wood quality on guitars at this pricepoint. The wood is as good as in my Larrivee LV03, which is a lot higher end guitar that has similar build quality

The guitar is incredibly light, weighing about 35% less than the Larrivee. It is lightly braced. The top is very "live." Doesnt take much wake it and it is very dynamically responsive. As a result, the guitar has a sort of "reverb" to its tone. It is actually the top being so live that open strings ring very easily. Gives the guitar a different vibe thats really cool. It's a subtle thing and would only matter for fingerstyle.

In fact I see this as exclusively a fingerstyle guitar. This is THE guitar to buy for fingerstyle Delta Blues. Detune it and it sounds greasy, growly, and downright nasty. It's sick. Nothing else I own is even close for this genre. The tone is very mid forward. Very warm. Not a lot of top end detail. Soft attack. Bass is tight and focused, but not overpowering. Perfect for pedaled bass notes. This is one of the fattest sounding gits I've heard heard. In electric guitar world its a Strat or P90, neck pickup position, tone rolled back a bit.

I would highly recommend the 000-17 for fingerstyle playing where dynamically responsive, mid forward, aggressive, warm fat tone is wanted. But the guitar isn't a good choice if you aren't a Bluesman. Flatpicking on the 000-17 sounds like poo tbh. You arent going to like it for strumming Kumbayah.

The 000-17 perfect for Blues. And thats great because thats what I wanted it for.Ken Smith

First I should say this is my third Martin, the others being a D18 1934 GE and an OM-H28 VTS. I've wanted a 00-sized guitar and after having played several I chose the CEO-7. Boy, am I fortunate. I'm having more fun with this guitar than I really thought possible. First, it looks so cool. More Gibson L-00 than Martin (hence the "My Favorite Marti(a)n" nod in the title). But it plays and sounds just like a Martin–and that's a great thing. I've often said that if American history and culture had a soundtrack, it would be played on a Martin. And if I were doing the playing, it would be on my CEO-7. It fits like a glove and the sound rocks my soul. When played softly, it produces a sweet and delicate sound. But when you lay into it, it becomes gritty and bluesy. I've swapped the plastic bridge pins for bone and I'll probably upgrade the tuners at some point, but everything else is tops–addy top; mahogany back and sides; looks like a mahogany neck; ebony fingerboad and bridge; 1 3/4 bone nut. It's a lot of value for the price. Honestly, hands down THE BEST guitar I've ever owned. No regrets. I'll have this one forever.ScottyJ

I have been deliberating on getting a Martin D28 for a decade. I finally bit the bullet and spent the money but opted on the CEO 7. I couldn't be more happy. First off its gorgeous with the sunburst top and choice mahogany back and sides. The size drew me in because of comfortability and I play a lot sitting and lounging. To me it is way more comfortable than the dreadnot while not loosing any (or significant) volume. Plays like a dream. I shouldn't have have waited so long. I did opt to add an ivory arm rest and I think it just increases the big sound of this little guitar.Jon

This guitar is comfortable in my hands…it just feels good. Finger picking, flat picking, strumming…whatever style you prefer…it'll be fine. Clear and crisp and rings like a bell. Small but mighty. I've played (or tried to play) a bunch of guitars over the last 50 years. I'm a ham and egg player. Electrics and acoustics – Fenders, Gibsons, Martins, Gretschs, Epiphones, Guilds, Dan Electros and on…and this Martin CEO-7 is among the sweetest ever. This one makes me want to play it, and, most important, makes me want get better at playing it. This one makes me lose track of time.Hroogar

Got this from Ithaca Guitar Works. Wanted to play it first. While it looks like a J45, it is a Martin. While the lower bout is an inch wider than a standard dreadnaught, it will not sound like a Gibson advanced jumbo. It is definitely a Martin and celebrates that pedigree. It is incredibly light. The light satin finish gives it immediate resonance and tone. And it will only get better. It is incredibly balanced string to string, but with a Martin bass. I own a Guild D20, which I prefer over Martin's D15 (it's close), but the spruce top on the DSS-17 adds a sparkle that is welcome. The Monel strings had to go. I can see why the late Tony Rice loved them for bluegrass. They are clear and don't overload a picker with overtones from earlier notes. I swapped out for a set of Daddario 12-53 Nickel Bronze strings instead. At times it rings and sustains like a 12 string. Can't stop playing her. The tuners are antiqued models from Stew Mac. They hold tune, but some creak and are not smooth. I am still deciding if noisy stability is preferable to smooth retuning. But they look the part of old tuners.Guild Lover

I've owned 2 Gibson J-45s. The first was a 2018 Sitka top, mahogany back and sides. The second was a Gibson J-45 with rosewood back and sides. Don't get me wrong, I love J-45s, but this Martin DSS-17 is killer! The bottom end reminds me of the 2018 45 I had, but more volume. The one I purchased had a hard case with it, so can't speak to the gig bag this normally comes with. I'd never buy a nice guitar with a gig bag. I'm too picky when it comes to humidifying my guitars, so a hard case is a must. I think this guitar had a great deal of thought put into it and they knocked it out of the park. This is my second Martin. The other that I own is a 000-15 SM, which is a great guitar as well. I'm still a Gibson fan, but let's be honest, a J-45 is a grand more than this 17. The 17 checked my boxes, so here we are.Randy C

The guitar plays great, sounds amazing and looks stunning. Real cool vintage vibe. The tuners seem very precise. I was disappointed that the guitar didn’t come with a hard case, but I have to say I’m really impressed with the soft case that came with it and it is far more robust than I would have expected. The set up is excellent nice and low but no fret buzz. My Gibson will be taking a back seat now this baby has arrived. Unbelievable tone and I definitely made the right decision to purchase this.Reviewed by Project Music custom

Just fantastic Well, how do I make this clear. First of all, an acoustic guitar is really just a mirror made out of wood;l in other words, whatever you can do, IT will do. I've been playing almost 30 years and can tell you that learning to play steel-string is an EVOLUTION. An evolution of your taste, your ability, but also it's a continued undestanding of what makes a guitar sing: Voicings and strings. Without all these things you cannot evolve. What a martin brings to the table (ESP the D-45) is the vehicle to make these expressions in my opoinion. For example, I play the same thing on 2 guitars and one of them is a D-45 — THAT is where we should begin the review, a comparison to a baseline variable. I've owned both old klunkers and nice steel string guitars. But it wasn't until late '07 that I had the dough to lay down on a Marty. I went with a D-42 for econ reasons (about 3400.00 at that time). She was a beut' … However, a few years later I went into the shop and test drove a new D-4 and let me tell you there was just NO comparison there…. NONE. The D-45, when put together correctly and set to go is about as close to driving a Ferarri Enzo as a working-class guitarist can ever get. She was so fast, and so bright, big, and loud it was jaw-dropping — not only for me, but for several others in the sound room, no kindding. I decided right then and there I would lay down the money to get her. And only this particular one, too. Each one is different. YOU MUST SHOP and COMPARE. This is the nicest guitar I've ever played in my life….. Endless enjoyment is hard to put a price on.Jon Mould

I also own a Gibson J-200, and the feel of this guitar is just so different and special. It plays so much easily and without effort. Having said that, I'm still playing with strings and determining which works best for me, but regardless of what I've used so far, I have not been disappointed. On top of the amazing sound, it is probably the most beautiful piece of art that I have ever seen. Not only does it sound better than probably any other acoustic you will get your hands on, but it will also leave you with a sense of pride that you own a work of art that will stand the test of time as you pass it down generation to generation.P-Dogg

The smallest acoustic I've ever owned, but a seriously big sound, especially when played fingerstyle! I've only had it a short time, but it's definitely a lifer as I've never played a guitar as responsive. It's definitely not one to get if you're focusing on strumming out big chords, but as an intimate little solo performing or recording guitar it can't be beat. It also has an amazing projection which allows it to cut through some bigger instruments in a way that a dreadnought simply can't which makes it a really great guitar to play lead lines on. It's for sure my favorite martin, and I've owned almost all of their standard series models!Desmond

Purchased a little over 2 months ago with no regrets. I have several acoustic and electrics to my name, but this D-18 just makes me want to play and play. I can't explain it. Couldn't be more thrilled with the appearance, workmanship, but most importantly the tonal quality this D-18 has. It has punch, bark and a sweet finger style as well. Martin did an exceptional job on this one. It is exactly what I was looking for in playability and performance. Already had a boutique D-28 style rosewood back and sides, but the difference in the tone of Mahogany is stark. It's a huge investment, but I have no regrets except I didn't do it sooner. Can't put it down and totally reinvigorated with acoustic playing. Shout out to Steven Segal who helped me finalize this purchase and went the extra mile to make my experience good.Joe

The smallest acoustic I've ever owned, but a seriously big sound, especially when played fingerstyle! I've only had it a short time, but it's definitely a lifer as I've never played a guitar as responsive. It's definitely not one to get if you're focusing on strumming out big chords, but as an intimate little solo performing or recording guitar it can't be beat. It also has an amazing projection which allows it to cut through some bigger instruments in a way that a dreadnought simply can't which makes it a really great guitar to play lead lines on. It's for sure my favorite martin, and I've owned almost all of their standard series models!Desmond

Purchased a little over 2 months ago with no regrets. I have several acoustic and electrics to my name, but this D-18 just makes me want to play and play. I can't explain it. Couldn't be more thrilled with the appearance, workmanship, but most importantly the tonal quality this D-18 has. It has punch, bark and a sweet finger style as well. Martin did an exceptional job on this one. It is exactly what I was looking for in playability and performance. Already had a boutique D-28 style rosewood back and sides, but the difference in the tone of Mahogany is stark. It's a huge investment, but I have no regrets except I didn't do it sooner. Can't put it down and totally reinvigorated with acoustic playing. Shout out to Steven Segal who helped me finalize this purchase and went the extra mile to make my experience good.Joe

Overall: My first thoughts when I took that first strum, was “Guy Clark.,” except I think that man made his own guitars. But if I can describe the first sound I heard or who, that’s what it was, Guy Clark designed this one. It is beautiful and played in tune out of the box. Now I’m just more of a collector than a player, but I some ESP’s, a Yamaha, Taylor 710e, Ovation, an Ibanez, and now this magical Martin D-15M StreetMaster Acoustic. Good luck putting it down before your fingers bleed. At this price point and much above this is a splendid guitar. I can’t wait to hear what it sounds like after it has hours and hours of use on it. Buy one they’ll take it back if you don’t like it, but somehow I don’t see you making that choice. If all the other Martins haven’t convinced you, this one will. If your budget isn’t as high, do yourself a favor and keep saving or pay as you go option.Richard

I literally walked around Sam Ash plucking low E strings listening for a deep rich sound. Martin seemed to have more than anyone else. I liked the look of the Mahogany top/back/sides/neck. The ripples of the grain add a beautiful touch to the color of the wood. The tone has totally warmed up more and grown deeper over the 10 or 11 months she's been home with me. I have the MFX740 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings (Martin strings, they call them Tommy's Choice) on there and it just gives this rich low rumble on the low E and the D strings that if I have my feet up on my desk I can feel on my desk. The ring out is intense and long on this baby. I have not had anyone pick up my Martin and NOT say how much they love the tone of her. I do love the look of no binding… but, I'm going to have to say I do have some dents on the sides where the bindings would be protecting. That said… I'm not sure I care at the same time I think I care. I think that means I want it to be perfect but I also am okay with her getting age marks just as long as it doesn't do some serious damage. I would buy another. I'd buy it for my Dad. I'd buy it for one of my kids if they'd play. If you pick this guitar up you'll probably end up taking it home. Comes with a beautiful martin case with green insides. Acoustic only, don't forget.BasPilot

I have somewhat passively searched for the holy grail of the acoustic/electric bass guitar for years. Most acoustic bass guitars available are less than $500 and sound horrible. I started researching again and found numerous reviews stating that the Martin is heads and shoulders above the rest. I was still hesitant since I didn't know where I could check one out first. I found one in McKinney, TX. I played it unplugged and plugged. I had found it. Since my local music store had recently become a Martin dealer, I was planning to have them order me one. I knew that Martin had recently discontinued production, but they offered to build one and would take about 3 months. I visited a Sam Ash store in Birmingham and another in the Dallas area. I purchased an $8 item and was mildly annoyed as the guy checking me out was asking for everything with the exception of my passport and birth certificate. Now, I'm glad I cooperated. I receive regular emails from Sam Ash. Late one night, I see that they were offering 48 months with no interest. I thought to myself, I wonder if they have a Martin bass. Low and behold, hallelujah, they had a limited stock and was on sale. Well, I applied for the credit and was approved, however, when I tried to check out, I didn't have my new account number. The next morning, I had an email from them announcing a Paul Ash sale. I called Sam Ash and explained my issue during checkout. I asked if there was an additional discount due the sale. He put me on hold for a while and came back and knocked another $70. Two days later, on a Saturday, Fedex delivered the latest addition to my bass family. Of course I would prefer it to be louder unplugged, but it's fine for sitting around playing. Plugged in, it sounds amazing. Too bad Martin discontinued it. I purchased a Thumby and mounted it on the edge of the sound hole. I love this bass and a big fan of Sam Ash.Jeff

I decided to wait until the honeymoon period was over (4 mos) to write a review. I've now come to the realization that it's not going to end. I've been playing for about 50 years, and over the past 10 or so have thoroughly enjoyed splitting time between my Taylor and Washburn. No more! This Martin is easily the most amazing guitar I've ever played. The combination of sound, size, and playability make it very hard to put down. I've been primarily a flat picker all my life, but this guitar begs to be fingerpicked, and I'm happily obliging! Simply put, an outstanding instrument.Jeff

I have been wanting this model for a few years. I knew what I wanted from playing these in stores. I finally bought one from MF. When it arrived I unboxed it and opened the case. Wow these are beautiful guitars. As soon as I started playing I was disappointed. The guitar did not sound like the ones I had played in stores. This on had a muddy small sound. This is not what I expect from spruce and rosewood. Now I am out the shipping cost to return the item. I think I learned a few good lessons here. Always play the guitar you are buying in person. Each and every acoustic guitar has its own sound, no matter how well they are built.dillon

I have been playing guitar for over 40 years and have always loved the sound of Martin guitars. I prefer a "V" shaped neck which is rare these days. I decided to finally purchase a Martin, and decided on this model to get the modified "V" neck. The action and feel are outstanding, and the sound is everything I would expect from Martin. The details and finish are exceptional. I have several guitars, and this one just became my go to acoustic.Mike

Overall: Original unopened uninspected by zZounds, in the heavy duty box from Martin. Mine was packed well enough, but still a little surprised how little bubble pack it had, or needed. The guitar seems perfect, no blemishes, straight neck, just beautiful. Rings like a bell despite needing a set up. Saddle has tons of room to sand down to most anyone’s preferred height/action. Nut seems like it’s in similar ready to set up condition. But even out of the box it sounds absolutely great and isn’t terrible to play. The little booklet that comes with it lists features, including “non adjustable” truss rod. I hadn’t come across this in my (limited) research into D18s. Martin guitar forums are divided on it, but I think the idea is “the old ones that people worship didn’t have adjustable truss rods, so we’re following the recipe”. Fine, but why not put that in the specs too? It’s not a cheap guitar. Taking a chance on it and seeing how it does. I’ll care for it properly and if it craps out and needs a neck reset or god forbid a new neck, I’ll rant and rave about it. But for now, let’s see how it sets up!Dan

I can't say enough about this guitar. For as long as I have been a guitar player (and a Pennsylvanian, for that matter) I have known Martin guitars. They are always prominently used and sold around this area. I looked up to my idols who played them, even older players like CSN and Neil Young and Clapton. I dreamed of owning one and as a kid, I loved the white binding on dark wood, seemingly drawing me in to a D-28, which is arguably the most popular Martin ever. As a kid, I almost got a Martin DM, but ended up with a cheaper Epiphone. After college, I decided to get my first Martin Custom D Rosewood – essentially a D-28 with a mortise and tenon neck joint and a D-15 A-Frame bracing and styling – sold exclusively here on MF (and GC). It's a great value for a guitar, but had to keep it constantly humidified because of the thin-skin matte finish. It can get really dried out and in fact, was in that condition when I received it (used). Great guitar, but I was always chasing buying a brand new Martin to call my own. I played some in stores of course and always A/B'd them, but it wasn't until a factory tour that I got a real idea of the breadth that the Martin line possesses. There is the 1833 Shop there with an adjacent players room filled with a good spread of Martins of all values and construction style. I was simply playing them to see which ones spoke to me, sonically and soulfully. I played the D-28, the D-35, the D-41, the D-15, 00-15M, the CEO, a 12 string, Eric Clapton model 000-28, etc. They all had their magic I'm sure, but when I landed on the D-18, I was simply blown away. It had a completely organic and natural sound – I could literally hear the wood. It's an absolutely lovely woody tone – this sounded better than the rest to me. I also LOVE the understand design and simplicity. It's a true working man's instrument – plus it features forward shifted X-Bracing which gives a lot more bass. The new improvements are all choice! 100% my fav. acousticIan from PA

I bought this guitar last year at a locally owned music store and was happy to do so as you don't find many of them stocked at large corporately owned brick and mortar stores. When I purchased it, I fell in love with the look and overall sound of the guitar and felt I was indeed buying a piece of history. The overall materials, finish and body construction are excellent and it produces a rich tone even with older strings. However that is where the positive remarks end. The more I want to love this guitar, the more it disappoints for the simple reason that it is incredibly difficult to play. Whether this is due to a poor set up or poor fretboard construction I really can't say, but I have to put this thing down after more than after five or ten minutes of playing – it is that bad. The same is true for the D-15 I spent a pretty penny on too. How a guitar maker that's supposedly been around since 1833 can produce something this hard to play is beyond me. Older D-18s I have played are not much better as they are incredibly hard to fret and buzz incessantly. So before you spring a couple of grand for this "piece of history," reconsider something that actually plays with ease. For this reason alone, I certainly would never invest in another one of these or a D-28, D-35 etc.. that costs even more. I can name several other major brands that put this guitar to shame due to their playability but won't to avoid embarrassing the manufacturer. But I will say that Martin's quality control folks ought to check these things out before shipping them out the door. Believe me, Martin's reputation and its chances of survival depend on it.Tom R

The Martin 000-17SM is a great guitar, all the way around. It is an absolutely fantastic fingerstyle instrument, but if you take a pick to it, it responds very well. It is very loud for a "small" bodied guitar. This may be due to the elongated 000, 12-fret body. The 000, 12 fret design also gives this guitar a very balanced sound throughout its entire range. It's not "boomy" like a dreadnaught and it isn't "boxy" like a parlor or travel guitar. The only "down" side for someone coming from a dreadnaught might be the wider neck. Once you start doing some fingerpicking on this thing, though, you'll fall in love with the neck. The slotted headstock does take a little practice and a little more time when restringing, but I just think of that as "bonding" time. After all, this is the kind of guitar you're going to want to keep forever and pass down to your kids.Bad Blues Player

Overall: Probably the ugliest guitar Ive ever owned. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder right? Under its homely face is the soul of a beautiful wood nymph. Crisp and clear, bold and bright with the earthy tone of Mahogany. This guitar is addictive. I tried 4 very good guitars before holding on to this one. Gibson J45, Breedlove USA Concert, Martin Performing Artist GPCPA4R, Larrivee LO3S. Gibson sounded great but had an uneven fretboard, Breedlove gorgeous design, super easy to play and along with the Gibson beautiful to look at, but this one had buzz problems and sounded dull on the bass strings, Larrivee sounded like silken tones but the huge neck was a problem, Martin Performing Artist was almost the one until I recorded with it and it just came out too bright. The ugly little Martin Hog sounded great, recorded great and played like a typical Martin. Good low action, no buzzing and clear deep and woody dulcimer tones. Its a keeper and Im not letting this one go.Daniel

I'll make this short. Another Martin has entered the home. The Streetmaster is another outside the box model from Martin. I searched and found one in stock at Sam Ash in Charlotte. Only a 1.5 hour drive up from Columbia. Kylene Edson had it ready, set-up was perfect, action and playability is definitely Martin. The color, "rustic brown" is different, but my wife wants art and guitar. She began lessons 4 weeks ago. Me, 40+ years of hearing loss. But, since I have bought my lot of 24 guitars since October '19, it is her turn for a few. (Little secret-I play so when they get broke in I will do it!) I would have liked a hard-shell case but the gig bag is substantial and well padded. Overall, excellent solid wood mahogany sound and nice to look at. Thanks Kylene and Sam Ash of Charlotte for having it in stock.MICHAEL

Overall: I have been playing guitar for 28 years now I believe. I was born and raised in Pennsylvania so C.F. Martin has always had a place in my heart since I began playing. The guitar out of the box was perfectly tuned dropped a half step. It looks amazing, and sounds amazing, through the highs, midrange, and lows it just resonates so wonderfully. I prefer a parlor style body to a dreadnought style and let me tell you this thing delivers such beautiful tone through out it's solid mahogany construction. I was on the fence of getting the 000-15 to the Streetmaster. I am glad I went with the Streetmaster the relic finish and prewar styled tuners looks amazing. I get compliments from everyone that sees and hears it. I would also like to comment that the soft gig bag case is really nicely made and has more protection than a standard run of the mill gig bag.Jimmy

Very nice guitar … However , There are no tuning instructions or string height instructions . And you may find the the standard "E" tuning is to high . And will stress the neck joint . Which is why many of Older Martin Guitars require a Neck Reset . And is why the Martin players . Most often recommend "D" tuning . CMNchris

This is my third Martin although mine is slightly different in that it is a 000-28 EC Eric Clapton version. In 1972 I bought my first one, a D-35, then acquired a D35-12.later. I played the D-35 exclusively for many years professionally along the way acquiring a beautiful custom hand built guitar, Bertoncini, but I always wanted a smaller body that I thought would be better for finger picking and wow does the 000-28 meet that! I have become so addicted to it I play it almost exclusively. Not only is it wonderful for finger picking it is wonderful for flat picking too. The action is set perfectly. I love the feel of the smaller body size, it cradles into your arms perfectly. The neck on mine has a slight "V" shape which is terrific with a slightly wider nut which really enhances the finger picking style greatly. It's no wonder it is Clapton's favorite acoustic. The 000-28 predates the Dreadnoughts and was and is more the Martin "Classic" and for a good reason, it is a very well balanced guitar tone-wise not overly boomy which can interfere with the bass if you're playing in a band and the tone is dead accurate all the way up the neck so an E played open is in tune with an E played up the neck. So many guitar makers miss that by a mile. I love this thing so much my only regret is the poor D-35 sits in the case too much! The 000-28 has a signature tone to it that you can not mistake for a Taylor or something else – this is a true classic. Now something else I want to add about a Martin and their service. After I bought the D-35 years ago the neck moved just slightly and after 30 years of playing the plastic binding began to separate. When the wind knocked it over on its stand on a break I finally sent it back again for repairs. It came back in PRISTINE condition! The tone was not hurt in the least by the necessity of refinishing it and it plays beautifully – all no cost to me! Martin is fantastic. The 35 is wonderful but I love the 000-28 – my Go To!Rick

Back in 2008, I bought my dream guitar, a Martin HD-28. In the last 12 years it has been my baby. However, I only play for myself at home. Lately, I had been reconsidering it's large size and loud volume, and I started trying some smaller guitars. I decided to sell my dreadnaught, and used the proceeds to buy this 000-28 that was redesigned in 2018. Let me say that it is amazing. While the HD-28 had a beautiful deep bass-like response, this 000-28 is more shimmering and a chiming sound. It is extremely comfortable, and the fretboard seems a bit wider than my HD-28, which makes it very comfortable. I was concerned about how the aging toner would look, but it turns out looking very warm and buttery, and the top color will definitely age more on its own. I was also worried that it wouldn't be good for strumming, due to the shorter scale length. But this guitar sounds just as good strumming as well as finger picking. I've never tried an OM-28, but I can say that this 000-28 is also a great chord strumming guitar. This is a very intimate and lovely guitar, and I don't know if it will ever leave my house. If I were playing gigs or in a band, I would probably prefer a dread size, but this is perfect for my personal use at home. Also, the scalloped bracing seems to have been a massive improvement. I imagine this is very close to the Clapton model now, in terms of sound.Chachi

This guitar has beautiful timbre colours and flavors. The VTS treatment makes it sound like it's been playing for 80 years. Beautiful bookmarked Rosewood back, Rosewood sides. Dovetail construction done by CNC machine makes a tighter fit than by hand. Quality wood is same as series 42. Save monies on no pick guard, no white binding, no hardshell case, Dovetail construction on CNC machine ( nodes are more superior), no white on heel bottom,no white strip on bottom where strap pin is at.John

Martin offering an Adirondack VTS top with beautiful rosewood back and sides for under 2k is the deal of a lifetime. You will not regret buying this guitar and I've honestly had trouble putting it down. I have a 00015m, a D18, the SC-13 special burst.. they're all great but this is the first review I've written if that tells you something.Spencer

Very nice guitar … However , There are no tuning instructions or string height instructions . And you may find the the standard "E" tuning is to high . And will stress the neck joint . Which is why many of Older Martin Guitars require a Neck Reset . And is why the Martin players . Most often recommend "D" tuning . CMNchris

This is my third Martin although mine is slightly different in that it is a 000-28 EC Eric Clapton version. In 1972 I bought my first one, a D-35, then acquired a D35-12.later. I played the D-35 exclusively for many years professionally along the way acquiring a beautiful custom hand built guitar, Bertoncini, but I always wanted a smaller body that I thought would be better for finger picking and wow does the 000-28 meet that! I have become so addicted to it I play it almost exclusively. Not only is it wonderful for finger picking it is wonderful for flat picking too. The action is set perfectly. I love the feel of the smaller body size, it cradles into your arms perfectly. The neck on mine has a slight "V" shape which is terrific with a slightly wider nut which really enhances the finger picking style greatly. It's no wonder it is Clapton's favorite acoustic. The 000-28 predates the Dreadnoughts and was and is more the Martin "Classic" and for a good reason, it is a very well balanced guitar tone-wise not overly boomy which can interfere with the bass if you're playing in a band and the tone is dead accurate all the way up the neck so an E played open is in tune with an E played up the neck. So many guitar makers miss that by a mile. I love this thing so much my only regret is the poor D-35 sits in the case too much! The 000-28 has a signature tone to it that you can not mistake for a Taylor or something else – this is a true classic. Now something else I want to add about a Martin and their service. After I bought the D-35 years ago the neck moved just slightly and after 30 years of playing the plastic binding began to separate. When the wind knocked it over on its stand on a break I finally sent it back again for repairs. It came back in PRISTINE condition! The tone was not hurt in the least by the necessity of refinishing it and it plays beautifully – all no cost to me! Martin is fantastic. The 35 is wonderful but I love the 000-28 – my Go To!Rick

Back in 2008, I bought my dream guitar, a Martin HD-28. In the last 12 years it has been my baby. However, I only play for myself at home. Lately, I had been reconsidering it's large size and loud volume, and I started trying some smaller guitars. I decided to sell my dreadnaught, and used the proceeds to buy this 000-28 that was redesigned in 2018. Let me say that it is amazing. While the HD-28 had a beautiful deep bass-like response, this 000-28 is more shimmering and a chiming sound. It is extremely comfortable, and the fretboard seems a bit wider than my HD-28, which makes it very comfortable. I was concerned about how the aging toner would look, but it turns out looking very warm and buttery, and the top color will definitely age more on its own. I was also worried that it wouldn't be good for strumming, due to the shorter scale length. But this guitar sounds just as good strumming as well as finger picking. I've never tried an OM-28, but I can say that this 000-28 is also a great chord strumming guitar. This is a very intimate and lovely guitar, and I don't know if it will ever leave my house. If I were playing gigs or in a band, I would probably prefer a dread size, but this is perfect for my personal use at home. Also, the scalloped bracing seems to have been a massive improvement. I imagine this is very close to the Clapton model now, in terms of sound.Chachi

Got this from Ithaca Guitar Works. Wanted to play it first. While it looks like a J45, it is a Martin. While the lower bout is an inch wider than a standard dreadnaught, it will not sound like a Gibson advanced jumbo. It is definitely a Martin and celebrates that pedigree. It is incredibly light. The light satin finish gives it immediate resonance and tone. And it will only get better. It is incredibly balanced string to string, but with a Martin bass. I own a Guild D20, which I prefer over Martin's D15 (it's close), but the spruce top on the DSS-17 adds a sparkle that is welcome. The Monel strings had to go. I can see why the late Tony Rice loved them for bluegrass. They are clear and don't overload a picker with overtones from earlier notes. I swapped out for a set of Daddario 12-53 Nickel Bronze strings instead. At times it rings and sustains like a 12 string. Can't stop playing her. The tuners are antiqued models from Stew Mac. They hold tune, but some creak and are not smooth. I am still deciding if noisy stability is preferable to smooth retuning. But they look the part of old tuners.Guild Lover

I've owned 2 Gibson J-45s. The first was a 2018 Sitka top, mahogany back and sides. The second was a Gibson J-45 with rosewood back and sides. Don't get me wrong, I love J-45s, but this Martin DSS-17 is killer! The bottom end reminds me of the 2018 45 I had, but more volume. The one I purchased had a hard case with it, so can't speak to the gig bag this normally comes with. I'd never buy a nice guitar with a gig bag. I'm too picky when it comes to humidifying my guitars, so a hard case is a must. I think this guitar had a great deal of thought put into it and they knocked it out of the park. This is my second Martin. The other that I own is a 000-15 SM, which is a great guitar as well. I'm still a Gibson fan, but let's be honest, a J-45 is a grand more than this 17. The 17 checked my boxes, so here we are.Randy C

The guitar plays great, sounds amazing and looks stunning. Real cool vintage vibe. The tuners seem very precise. I was disappointed that the guitar didn’t come with a hard case, but I have to say I’m really impressed with the soft case that came with it and it is far more robust than I would have expected. The set up is excellent nice and low but no fret buzz. My Gibson will be taking a back seat now this baby has arrived. Unbelievable tone and I definitely made the right decision to purchase this.Reviewed by Project Music custom

dream come true!! this guitar is amazing, set up out of the box perfect, only thing is sharp fret edges on the bottom of the neck.Sounds amazing and you know its a Martin when you hear it.very impressed with this guitarEric

I would of preferred to buy a solid top Martin for my son but he has an attic bedroom which fluctuates with the heat and we were worried about keeping it stored safely so at his request I brought him this one instead. I had previously seen and held the solid mahogany version and so when this arrived it did look different (not quite as nice) and there was a slight difference it tone and resonance however it still looked and sounded great compared with other guitars around and under the same price range (£500) we had tried. My son is 16 and an intermediate level guitar player and found it comfortable and fun to play and it is a really good sounding guitar (particular at the lower end) especially when amplified. He particularly likes the neck profile of this Martin which is tapered and neither too far or too thin. A good value Martin that should last him years without the worry of the extra care you need to take with solid wood Martins so a good middle ground for us. Would recommend.Mr F. c.

I own two other Martins (1970 D12-35 and1971 D42) both of which have aged beautifully and sound incredible. Both guitars needed to be set up, as back then out of the box from Martin high actions seemed to be the norm. Took a Martin factory tour in PA a few years ago and was floored by a demo stock D28. I've wanted one ever since. Walked into a Guitar Center while in NJ on a whim (alone, wife would have dragged me off) and tried various D28's, and even a D45. When I got to the D28 MD, well, it was all over. Haggled over price, then purchased it – this was back in Feb 2020, pre-Covid. Loved it out of the box. Pleke'd for perfect action, (absolutely no setup needed), beautifully appointed and incredible clear and distinctive bass, treble mid-range, whether finger picked (using finger picks or just fingers) or picking. It's now August, 6 months later, and…the sound is still a jaw-dropper every time I play. If you want a premium sounding player, that is also visually satisfying without being ostentatious, and your budget can permit, this is the one.Steven

The Martin "Special OM-28 VTS" guitar is outstanding in every way. WOW! It arrived with a perfect set-up. Its case is also a small upgrade over Martin 15 and 17 series' wood covered cases, and good enough. I contacted Martin about the VTS top on the guitar before buying. I wanted to know that if after torrefaction the top was going to continue to age, albeit much more slowly that new wood? My question was answered promptly by a customer service employee at Martin who said he asked my question to Martin's head of Instrument Design. The answer was yes, the VTS top will continue to age, very slowly. So, it is not a dead top. Derek was my sales associate and he could not have been more kind and patient. After all, buying a higher-end Martin isn't cheap. My guitar is labeled "Special" on its wooden serial number plate and not "Custom." The sales tags say "Custom." Guitar Center/Musicians Friend ordered 100 a of these exact guitars as a "Custom" order from Martin. It sold out and ordered more. The extras, mine included are called "Custom." I knew this before I made my purchase. My "Special OM-28 VTS" guitar is of heirloom quality.Chris

I wanted a rosewood 000 or OM. Almost brought a used omjm a couple different times. MF has had some smoking sales lately and I missed a couple good deals because I didn't pull the trigger. When this beacame part of the FALL sale knowing the omjm and 000-28ec is based on this basic model and this model had VTS, I just did it, tossed aside self control, took the heavyest one they had and here it is. After a few self tweaks to the truss rod, lowering the saddle a couple mm, like tone wowsville, this sounds as loud and has as much bass response as my HD-28e retro. Even my wife noticed. You know how wives are, they let us have multiple guitars so we don't get multiple girl friends, and she noticed how good this sounded over an HD28e retro, an 000-18e retro, a gpcpa1 big leaf maple custom shop, a 000-15m, she never knows what I am playing until this guitar. Now if she knows and hears the difference imagine how much I and you will notice how fripping sweet this guitar sounds and plays. This sounds incredibly good and should be added to your arsenal of guitars. The neck is like butter. Adding Fishman AG series passive piezo for electronics. My top has red streaks going through it, says sitka but I've only seen Engleman red spruce like that. The VTS is amazing, Better get one of these before none are left! I think I got the next to last one.OttoMatick

I think the M-36 is a hidden sleeper in the Martin line. I researched this guitar for over a year and it checked off all the boxes for me. A great value for the price point. The 3 piece back is what drew me to the M-36 as I own a D-35 and a D-35 12 string and both are canons. The neck and feel of the M-36 is exactly like my 30 year old D-35. Very comfortable if you are used to a low profile neck and like low action. This is a great guitar for finger picking and the tone is balanced and clean with good base resonance. It already sounds like a seasoned instrument. I have Fishman pick ups in my other guitars, but this Ellipse Matrix system is the next level. Hard to put it down.Derek

I play many types of music and this guitar fits many perfectly. Set up great right out of the box.When I want her to sound sweet, she's sweet. When I want to rock, she rocks. All up and down the neck she responds beautifully. Doesn't matter, country, rock or simple sweet music, this guitar singsR.Eastepp

Simply stunning. Went in with a determined mind to try and buy a D28 (lifelong ambition) Played the D28, exceptional guitar, spied the M36 next to it, picked it up for a quick play and it felt like an extention of me straight away. Bit more expensive but it was simply destined to be…Reviewed by Andertons Music Co.

If you want the ARCHETYPE, the inspiration, the BEST, Go for a Martin. I have a Gibson Original Jumbo 1934 reissue, that sound like heaven, the Martin is another animal, a perfect pair for my Gibson, I'm not a professional, I love blues and fingerpicking in my home with a cigar and a whiskey and my two acoustics and my OMI Dobro Lilly Of The Valley are a treasure for me! The martin have a striped ebony fingerboard and bridge (I like it but some maybe preffer a black one, well are not black), the sound is clear and a joy! The craftmanship is perfect, the case is very nice, the martin strings sound very good (I bought 3 sets of the same), the rosewood is very nice paired, and the top have a beautiful aged tone. This guitar will be with me all my life. About Guitar Center of Miami Mr Mario and Ignacio are nice people!Alejandro

I'm a new guitarist and consider myself very fortunate to be able to afford an instrument like this. I am nowhere near good enough (yet) to get the most out of this guitar, but I will say that even as a beginner (and long-time music lover) I can really hear the difference between this and lesser guitars, and playing on an instrument like this makes learning more rewarding, and dare I say easier. Anything I hear wrong is clearly my technique, which this guitar rewards when you get it right, and makes obvious when you miss. From simple cowboy chords to picked or fingered individual notes this guitar just has tone to die for. Hit an E minor, hard or soft, and each string resonates with depth, clarity and sustain. Playing this guitar is really a dream come true. Oh, I said I'm a beginner and that means that as I write this I've been playing guitar for all of five months. I'm 52-years-old and take weekly 30 minute lessons, have dabbled in online lessons and practice about 15 to 30 minutes on weekdays and about an hour or two on Saturdays and Sundays. I recently sang and played "Nights in White Satin" by The Moody Blues for my family. Just me, my D-28 and beautiful, room-filling tone. There's nothing better.Andrew