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Martin Custom & Special Editions | D-28 Billy Strings
25" Scale Length & Modified Neck - Solid East Indian Rosewood & Spruce - Vintage-Inspired Aesthetics
The Martin D-28 Billy Strings, inspired by Billy's 1940 D-28, blends classic pre-war design with modern playability. Its unique 25" scale length and modified neck profile offer reduced string tension and enhanced comfort for fast playing. The solid East Indian rosewood and spruce construction delivers a rich, resonant tone, while vintage-inspired aesthetics like herringbone trim and antique toner give it a timeless look. Nickel enclosed gear tuners and an ebony fingerboard with abalone inlays complete this instrument, making it ideal for players seeking a balance of tradition and innovation.
Inspired by the cherished 1940 D-28 of bluegrass virtuoso Billy Strings, the Martin D-28 Billy Strings model represents a fascinating blend of vintage aesthetics and contemporary playability. This signature Dreadnought isn't simply a replica; it's a carefully crafted instrument designed to meet the demands of Billy's lightning-fast, intricate playing style while retaining the timeless appeal of a classic Martin.
One of the most significant departures from traditional D-28 specifications is the unique 25" scale length. This shorter scale reduces string tension, making bends easier and facilitating the rapid-fire licks that define Billy's sound. This feature alone opens up new avenues of expression for players who value speed and agility. Complementing the shorter scale is a slightly slimmer nut width and a modified low oval satin neck profile. This combination provides exceptional comfort and allows for effortless movement up and down the fretboard, catering to players who prioritise speed and fluidity.
The tonal foundation of the D-28 Billy Strings is built upon the classic combination of solid East Indian rosewood back and sides and a spruce top. This tonewood pairing delivers a rich, resonant tone with a powerful bass response and clear, articulate trebles. This ensures the guitar projects beautifully in any setting, from intimate acoustic performances to larger stage environments. The guitar also features the amazing Golden Era scalloped bracing that helps nail the vintage Martin tone.
Visually, the D-28 Billy Strings pays homage to vintage Martins with several distinctive appointments. The bold herringbone trim, antique toner, and antique white binding evoke the classic look of pre-war instruments. These aesthetic touches give the guitar a timeless elegance that is sure to appeal to players who appreciate traditional design.
Further enhancing the guitar's performance are the nickel enclosed gear tuners, exclusive to Martin. These tuners provide precise and stable tuning, ensuring that the guitar stays in tune even during aggressive playing. The ebony fingerboard, adorned with abalone diamond and square inlays, not only looks stunning but also offers a smooth and responsive playing surface.
In essence, the Martin D-28 Billy Strings is a testament to the enduring legacy of Martin guitars and a testament to Billy Strings' innovative approach to bluegrass. It seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with modern playability, mirroring Billy's own genre-bending musical style. As a final touch of authenticity, each guitar features a custom paper label with Billy's pre-printed signature and a unique graphic.