The History of the Martin D35: How This Classic Guitar Came to Be
The Martin D35 is one of the most iconic guitars in the acoustic guitar world. Martin guitars have been played by countless musicians over the years, and the D35 is no exception. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Martin D35, including its history, design, and notable features. We will also explore how the D35 has influenced pop culture and continues to be relevant today. Whether you are a seasoned guitarist or a beginner, the Martin D35 is a guitar that should not be overlooked.
The Origins of the Martin D35
The Martin D35 is one of the most iconic guitars in Martin's history. The guitar was introduced in 1965 and quickly became popular among musicians for its booming bass tones and intricate inlays. The guitar is famous for its three-piece back construction, which gives it a unique appearance and sound.
The history of the Martin D35 can be traced back to the early 1960s when the company was looking to expand its product line. At the time, Martin was primarily known for its dreadnought-style guitars, but the company wanted to create a new model that would stand out from the crowd.
The Martin D35 was designed with a unique bracing system that allowed for greater sustain and projection. The guitar also featured a three-piece back made from Indian rosewood, which gave it a distinctive look and sound.
The Martin D35 was an instant success, and it quickly became popular among musicians of all genres. The guitar was used by many famous musicians over the years, including Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and John Mayer.
Today, the Martin D35 continues to be a popular choice among guitarists. The guitar has evolved over time, with new materials and construction methods being used to improve its sound and playability. Despite these changes, the Martin D35 remains true to its roots, and it continues to be a symbol of quality and craftsmanship in the acoustic guitar world.
Notable Features of the Martin D35
The Martin D35 is a unique guitar with several notable features that set it apart from other acoustic guitars. One of the most significant features of the D35 is its three-piece back, which consists of two outer pieces of Indian rosewood with a center strip of lighter-colored wood. This design is intended to enhance the resonance and projection of the guitar, resulting in a fuller, more balanced sound.
The Martin D35 also has a unique bracing system. The X-bracing pattern used in the D35 is scalloped, which means the wood is carved away in a specific pattern to reduce weight and increase flexibility. This design allows the top of the guitar to vibrate more freely, resulting in a more responsive and dynamic sound.
Another notable feature of the Martin D35 is its materials. The top of the guitar is made of Sitka spruce, which is known for its strong, clear tone and excellent projection. The sides and back of the guitar are made of Indian rosewood, which is prized for its rich, warm tone and stunning appearance.
In addition to its unique construction and materials, the Martin D35 also features intricate inlays and decorative details. The guitar's fretboard is adorned with intricate pearl snowflake inlays, and the headstock features a distinctive diamond-shaped inlay. These details not only enhance the guitar's appearance but also reflect the quality and craftsmanship of the instrument.
Compared to other popular Martin guitars, the D35 is known for its booming bass tones and strong midrange. Its unique construction and materials give it a distinct sound that sets it apart from other guitars in the Martin lineup, such as the D28 or the OM28.
Overall, the Martin D35 is a unique and distinctive guitar with several notable features that make it a popular choice among musicians. Its three-piece back, scalloped bracing, and unique materials contribute to its full, balanced sound, while its intricate inlays and decorative details make it a stunning instrument to behold.
Martin D35 in Pop Culture
The Martin D35 has been played by some of the most famous musicians in history, contributing to its status as an iconic guitar. One of the most famous D35 players was Johnny Cash, who often performed with his D35 on stage and in the studio. Cash's D35 can be heard on many of his hit songs, including "Man in Black" and "Ring of Fire."
Another musician who favored the Martin D35 was Elvis Presley. Presley famously played his D35 during his 1968 NBC comeback special, which is often cited as one of the most iconic moments in his career. Other notable D35 players include John Mayer, who has played a custom D35 on many of his recordings and live performances, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, who used the D35 heavily during their early years.
The Martin D35 has also been featured on many classic recordings over the years, adding to its reputation as a legendary guitar. One of the most famous examples is on Simon & Garfunkel's hit song "Mrs. Robinson," where the distinctive sound of a Martin D35 can be heard throughout the track. The guitar has also been used on many classic albums by artists such as Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and The Eagles, among others.
Overall, the Martin D35 has left an indelible mark on the world of popular music, and its unique sound and design have helped make it one of the most recognizable and sought-after guitars in history.
Modern Martin D35
The Martin D35 has been a staple of the acoustic guitar world for over 50 years, and it continues to be relevant today. While the guitar has gone through some changes over the years, including the introduction of new materials and construction methods, its basic design and sound remain consistent.
In recent years, Martin has introduced a number of modern features to the D35, including an updated bracing system and new tonewoods. These changes have allowed the guitar to maintain its status as one of the most popular and sought-after instruments in the world.
One of the reasons for the continued success of the Martin D35 is its influence on the design of modern acoustic guitars. The guitar's unique construction and booming bass tones have inspired countless luthiers and guitar makers to create their own versions of the instrument.
Additionally, the Martin D35 has continued to be used by some of the biggest names in music. Artists such as John Mayer, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash have all relied on the Martin D35 to create some of their most iconic recordings.
Overall, the Martin D35 remains a highly respected and sought-after guitar. Its rich history, unique design, and outstanding sound quality have made it a true classic of the acoustic guitar world. Whether you're a collector, a professional musician, or a beginner looking for a high-quality instrument, the Martin D35 is definitely worth considering.
Collecting Martin D35
When it comes to collecting guitars, few are more desirable than the Martin D35. First introduced in 1965, the Martin D35 has since become one of the most sought-after guitars in the world, renowned for its booming bass tones and intricate inlays. Over the years, the Martin D35 has undergone numerous changes and upgrades, and vintage models remain highly coveted by collectors and musicians alike.
In recent years, Martin has continued to produce new models of the D35, incorporating modern materials and construction methods while maintaining the guitar's classic design and sound. While vintage models are still highly prized among collectors, newer D35 guitars offer many of the same features and sound quality at a lower cost.
For collectors, the Martin D35 represents an excellent investment, as the value of vintage models has continued to increase over the years. Some of the most sought-after models include those with rare and unique features, such as Brazilian rosewood back and sides or intricate inlays. However, even more common models can fetch high prices at auction, particularly if they are in excellent condition.
When considering a Martin D35 for your collection, it's important to do your research and carefully evaluate the guitar's condition, age, and provenance. Look for guitars with original parts and minimal wear and tear, and be wary of any guitars with significant damage or modifications. It's also important to consider factors such as rarity and historical significance, as these can greatly impact a guitar's value and desirability.
Ultimately, the Martin D35 remains one of the most iconic and influential acoustic guitars of all time, and its continued popularity among collectors and musicians is a testament to its enduring appeal. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a musician looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar, the Martin D35 is a timeless classic that is well worth considering.
Conclusion
The Martin D35 is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and influential acoustic guitars ever made. Its unique design, booming bass tones, and intricate inlays have made it a favorite of musicians and collectors alike. As we've seen, the D35 has evolved over time, with new materials and construction methods being introduced to keep up with changing tastes and preferences. But no matter what changes have been made, the Martin D35 remains an essential part of the acoustic guitar world.
For collectors, the Martin D35 is a highly coveted item. Vintage models, especially those from the 1960s, are highly sought after and can fetch high prices at auction. Collectors are always on the lookout for rare models, such as those with Brazilian rosewood back and sides, which are no longer available due to import restrictions. Modern Martin D35 guitars are also highly collectible, with limited edition models and custom designs being particularly popular.
In conclusion, the Martin D35 is an acoustic guitar that has truly stood the test of time. Its unique design, booming bass tones, and intricate inlays have made it an iconic instrument that has been used by some of the most famous musicians in history. The Martin D35 continues to be relevant today, with new materials and construction methods being used to keep up with changing tastes and preferences. Whether you're a musician, a collector, or simply a fan of acoustic guitars, the Martin D35 is an instrument that deserves your attention and admiration.
