« Martin DXM »

I've been playing for a long, long time. Not professionally, though. My biggest gigs are backyard barbeques and sing-a-longs. Here are some additional details on the guitar: Construction: Mortise/tenon neck joint
Body size: D-14
Top: Spruce pattern HPL (High Pressure Laminate) textured finish
Rosette: Herringbone style - gold and black
Top bracing pattern: X Series ''X''
Top braces: Solid Sitka spruce 5/16''
Back material: Mahogany pattern HPL textured finish
Back purfling: none
Side material: Mahogany pattern HPL textured finish
Endpiece: none
Endpiece inlay: none
Binding: none
Top inlay style: none
Side inlay: none
Back inlay: none
Neck material: Rust Stratabond
Neck shape: Modified low oval

I paid about $500 a couple years ago. I actually submitted a review on this unit when I bought and just wanted to check back in and give an update.

This X Series dreadnought acoustic features the bright sparkle and deep, resonant tone that Martin guitars have become famous for, with high pressure laminate (spruce grained) top and mahogany grained sides.

The laminate top seems to be a feature most complain about, but honestly other than the fact that it is laminate, I think the guitar sounds fine and plays well.

Quality and build seem very consistent. The guitar was made in Mexico, but don't snub it because of that. With the right Quality requirements and direction, those guys can build a great guitar.

Overall, still very pleased. Although I'd love to have a much higher level Martin, I will continue to get years out of this one. For the price, you can't beat i.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com