The Almighty Comparison: American Made Powerhouse versus the Affordable Import

[Ridgemont]

http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=1bade74bf6ca083e18074f01a&id=d513e13d57&e=ea4432a43f

Arguably two prominent companies in their respective categories: 1) American made manufacturer with long history and 2) High end Asian import mimicing the the former.

So which do you prefer tonewise?

The Martin can be had new for as little as $2700 while the Eastman weighs in at a tad under $1K.

 

[twocorgis]

I've never played one of Eastman's dreads, but there was a used one of their OMs at the same Guitar Center that I played that great Martin D15 at the other day. I know a lot of people that rave about these, but I found it heavy, dull, and lifeless, even with newish strings.

Like you Jonathan, I've become quite the Martin fan lately. I still think that my D18DC is just about the best square shoulder dread I've ever played, and my 000-17SM amazes me every time I pick it up, which is most of the time since I bought it. It's obvious to me that Martin must be doing something right to be making guitars the way they do for as long as they have. They might not be for everybody, but they sure speak to me.

 

[southernGuild]

For Me, the Martin won out, But not by much, and it was pretty close. Both guitars sound fine, and it would come down to a matter of 'taste' as to what sound you wanted I suppose. But Yea, For me, Even given those prices, I'd go with the Martin.
I liked when he simply strummed the chords and they switched between guitars. That was helpful in the actual hearing of the guitars for me.
Also, I wonder if he was using the same type strings on each. Hmmm.

 

[Ridgemont]

Being a fan of Music Villa and their Acoustic Letter, I would bet they did their due diligence and have the same new strings on each.

 

[guildman63]

Nice comparison. To me the Martin projected better, and had better balance and clarity. That said, the Eastman sounds pretty good, and is an affordable option for those on a tighter budget.

 

[Bikerdoc]

Never played an Eastman either but I'd sure like to own a Martin D-18. Played a number of those.

Peace

 

[Taylor Martin Guild]

I have played the Eastman and was very impressed with it.
If money was an issue, the Eastman would be a good choice. If money wasn't an issue, I would always buy American made first.