Martin D-18 Authentic 1937 Acoustic Guitar, VTS Adirondack Spruce Top, Hard Case

Player's Perspective

The "Pre-War" era is legendary for a reason when it comes to Martin guitars. The company was at the top of their game when it came to both sourcing materials and guitar building, and this wasn't exemplified any better than in their flagship "D" (dreadnought) model from those years. Their new "Authentic" series seeks to recapture that magic, and after putting this instrument through the paces, we're confident in telling you that this Authentic 1937 D-18 was an absolute success in doing so!

Beyond the classic tonewood combination of a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, this stunning instrument features new Martin technology, known as the Vintage Tone System that simulates decades of aging on the solid woods, most notably the top. This results in a much more dry, much more resonant and responsive piece of wood.

So whereas most acoustic guitars require lots of playing time on them for the sound to truly open up and sound its best, the D-18 Authentic is already there, right out of the box. And you know what? This is more than just gimmicks and marketing jargon. The VTS is real! This guitar feels, plays, and sounds like a long-lost friend, perfectly preserved for over 80 years.

Details

1937 was an excellent year for guitars with a perfect storm of craftsmanship, innovation, and materials. This Authentic Series replication of a 1937 D-18 stays true to the original with hide glue construction and historically accurate detailing. This guitar features genuine mahogany back and sides and an Adirondack spruce top, and it includes an Authentic circa 1937 bracing pattern. It includes period-correct "18" Authentic-style appointments and an Authentic neck barrel and heel, and new this year, a more accurate body profile based on dreadnought shapes from the early Golden Era of Martin’s history. Martin’s VINTAGE TONE SYSTEM® (VTS) is employed to age the top and braces, which captures the tone from the 1930s era. Martin’s craftspeople can recreate the pleasing visual aesthetics of a vintage guitar and reproduce the particular tones previously reserved for vintage instruments.