Style numbers indicate the construction materials and appointments of the guitar, and this system allows for several combinations between body shapes and styles. The first letters or numbers indicate the body shape (0, 00, OM, D, etc.) that are followed by a style number (15, 18, 28, 45, etc.), and separated by a dash.

What is the difference between a Martin D 18 and a D 28?

While the 18 style guitars are clear, bright and authoritative, the Style 28 guitars are deeper, richer, with more bass. The Rosewood gives the tone its depth and richness, while the spruce adds fullness and volume. For these characteristics, 28 style guitars are often thought of as being best-sounding Martins.

How do I identify a Martin guitar?

A Martin Guitar will have the model designation and the serial number etched on the neck block. Look in the soundhole toward the neck to see where this is etched.

How do you read a Dean guitar serial number?

Every Dean guitar made in United States comes with a seven digit serial number that is printed on the back of the headstock (some 90s models may be stamped on the fretboard). First two numbers in the sequence are the last two digits of the production year.

When did Martin Guitars stop using Brazilian rosewood?

1969 Supplies grew extremely thin in the late 1960s, however, and Martin and others stopped using Brazilian rosewood in 1969, moving over to Indian rosewood, then other varieties. In 1992, Brazilian rosewood was added to the CITES treaty, strictly banning its exportation.

How can you tell if a guitar is a dean?

0:101:56How to Identify a Dean Bass Guitar - YouTubeYouTube