Martin D-18. Are the 2016 examples still as good as those 2012 examples?

[Prizen]

I am putting serious consideration into getting a D-18, a post 2012 model. I recall playing one a few years back and was very impressed, but I didn't have the cash at the time.

For whatever reason, I have this hunch that the earlier models out of production might be the strongest examples. I played another D-18 earlier this year and wasn't so impressed, although it may not have had the freshest strings.

Have you played many examples of the post 2012 D-18s, and have you found them to be consistently good?

[SpruceTop]

I've played a couple of post-2012 Martin D-18 guitars, one recently, and they sounded as good as my now-traded 2012-model-year version. Likely, all the new ones sound good but one or the other may sound "gooder" to you than another.

[ataylor]

I've played at least half a dozen since 2012 and found each to be a fantastic guitar. I'd be willing to bet that they're one of the most consistently good-sounding models out there from Martin, Taylor, or Gibson. So much so that I wouldn't hesitate to buy one without playing it first.

Like you, I'm thinking very seriously about getting one.

[Prizen]

I have a 2016 Taylor 614ce on the way. I wonder how different it would be to the D-18, would love to hear a comparison video as I wont be a able to play them side by side!

[crikey]

Originally Posted by Prizen

I have a 2016 Taylor 614ce on the way. I wonder how different it would be to the D-18, would love to hear a comparison video as I wont be a able to play them side by side!

The difference will be noticeable, just being a Taylor build and a Martin build for starters. Add to that, maple and mahogany. Get both.

[llew]

The new (2012) D-18's I've played have been consistently good. The best "value" in the Martin lineup in my opinion? And WAY different than the Taylor 614 mentioned above. On my second one!

[Petty1818]

I just became interested in the D-18 in early 2015. However, I have tried at least a dozen now and they have all been consistently well made. Here's the thing, I feel that the D-18 is one Martin model that can take time to find the right one. They all have a fairly consistent tone and this isn't a knock on Martin but out of those dozen that I have tried, maybe 2-3 blew me away. The rest were just a bit too bright.

[llew]

The other option that's available is a custom version. Some forum sponsors do "in house" dealer custom versions that really make a difference in the final product. Mine is an Adirondack/Ambertone from Jon at MFG. What can I say? The man knows his custom builds!

[Humbuster]

My 2015 D18 is one of the best dreads I have ever owned and I have owned some **** nice boxes in my time.

[WHguitarNYC]

Originally Posted by Humbuster

My 2015 D18 is one of the best dreads I have ever owned and I have owned some **** nice boxes in my time.

****, that's a beauty....

[Humbuster]

Thanks. It sounds as good as it looks. Unless, I am playing in which case it looks far better.

[slice]

All of the D-18 I've played recently have sounded great... but there are slight differences like someone pointed out earlier. I wouldn't hesitate to buy without playing first, though and my next guitar will be a D-18... if I can decide which guitar in my stash to sell first

[Ted @ LA Guitar Sales]

Originally Posted by Prizen

...Have you played many examples of the post 2012 D-18s, and have you found them to be consistently good?

Played a bunch, and they are quite consistent, with no difference between the first year, and current production models.

[kendallhadden]

My 2013 D-18 is one of the best sounding guitars I have owned ever. I'm picking up a Collings D1 Custom tomorrow. I will be interested if it's as good or better. The post 2012 D-18's I have played have been pretty consistent.
kwh

[baimo]

yes they are still just as good as ever.