Martin D18 1964

Certainly after all these years, the sound of this 1964 guitar can best be described as pure, powerful and "vintage dry". In terms of specs, this guitar is largely the same as the D18s built since 1947; that means a tortoise binding and pickguard, T-Bar in the mahogany neck, and a maple bridge plate.  This is also the last year Martin used tortoise on their dreadnoughts, which arguably looks much cooler than the black binding & pickguard that came in the years after. 

This D18 has two small repaired cracks in the side of the body, which have been dealt with very nicely and are barely noticeable. Other than the long (through) saddle that has been installed at some point, to increase its tonally capabilities, the instrument is fully original. It's incredibly lightweight, which is a testament to how dried out the wood on this instrument is. Striking the first G chord on this 'hog will have you startled at the sheer volume this instrument produces. The tone is beautiful, deep, loud and incredibly direct. Just the way I like a mahogany dreadnought, and just the way they should sound if you ask me. 

The neck has a comfortable, soft 'V' shape and has the classic '60s feel; a smaller nutwidth of just over 43mm like we see on many Gibson's from this era as well. This might take a little getting used to, but is ultimately incredible comfortable and I especially dig the smaller spacing at the bridge for flatpicking, offering a bit more speed than you might usually be able to achieve. 

Due to its sheer volume, the installation of a pickup was simply never needed this instrument. If you're planning on hitting the big stages, let us know! We'd be more than happy to advise you on what pickup would suit this instrument best, and install it before shipment for you of course.