I have a Martin D18 and this DR100. I love both of them for different applications. The D18 doesn’t leave my room but the DR goes everywhere with me.
@sethcall2916
3 ай бұрын
Exactly. I was also able to get a very low set up on my dr 100 it seems like it’s meant to be played. I never could get my martins action low enough. And the epiphone starling I used to gig with has held up well I sold it to a friend and it’s still holding up well.
@gregweber3387
Жыл бұрын
What an interesting comparison. Honestly, the Epiphone held it's own well. I bought an Epiphone DR-100 last October and it's been nothing but enjoyable to play. Setup was excellent with good low action right out of the box which made barre chords a lot easier.
@kooan18
5 жыл бұрын
The Martin sounds fuller and richer in tone whereas the DR-100 seems rather thin and plastic-ky to the ears
@AlexPriceMusician
5 жыл бұрын
DDynamite is awesome thanks for your thoughts!
@hoompaloompaa
4 жыл бұрын
Im sure you used your eyes
@kiilestudios
4 жыл бұрын
Yeah, the thing that it's not worth 2860$ more. Considering that i prefer the "plastic" tone a hundred times
@soofitnsexy
3 жыл бұрын
@Tony Berkopes agreed but still
@soofitnsexy
3 жыл бұрын
@Tony Berkopes i just bought a 5500 dollar custom martin and I also love my yamaha!!!
@Alynchmusic
2 жыл бұрын
Great playing and comparison. All I can say is that when you played the Epi I thought it sounded good, and when you played the same thing on the Martin, my heart moved. That for me justifies the price difference. Someone earlier said that his Martins called him and cheap guitars don’t. I believe that is true. Someone who is at a progressed level of playing should for sure be looking into the best instrument they can afford so that the guitar can really take their playing beyond expectations sonically, as the Martin does.
@AJHart-eg1ys
2 жыл бұрын
Agreed. The Epiphone sounded great until mimicked on the Martin. String by string the Martin only seemed noticeably different on two of them, but it was much more deep and rich on pretty much everything he played. The thing is whether you want THAT much depth and richness ... and have $3K to throw around. :)
@AniruddhJoshi
3 жыл бұрын
The real question is - does $2860 price difference really justify the sound difference?
@dannymccoy1783
Жыл бұрын
No.
@FrankRubenRodez
Жыл бұрын
No 😞
@Strato13
Жыл бұрын
Not enough to justify an extra $3K.
@Ogsonofgroo
2 жыл бұрын
Been practicing on a wine red dr-100 for a couple of years and I love the high-end sustain and bright sound, medium bronzes, has good low end, the Martin in this vid seems almost like its muted, though it seems to have a more musical tonality over-all I think the Epiphone gave it a good run. One of the things that impressed me about the Epi is is decent build for a cheap guitar, great finish/fit, solid (so far), stays in tune, and I'm sure it has much more potential if I had it properly set up. The Martins are beautiful guitars no doubt, the sound is impressive as well, but I'd take the Epi to the beach, the Martin, hm, not so much :)
@dannymccoy1783
Жыл бұрын
Well said.👍
@synthsploration9523
Жыл бұрын
Ran across this video because I just bought a dr-100 after reading 59 out of 61 rave reviews on Sweetwater. There are very few guitars with the creamy fullness of your Martin. However, the dr is a legitimately fine sounding instrument. And I'm not going to qualify that statement with 'for the price'. Important things for a new player are: ease of play, intonation, pleasant timbre, and affordability. The dr-100 checks all these boxes IMHO. The Martin is well worth the money if you have the skills and talent to bring it's fine qualities to the listener. A great comparison. Certainly not a fair comparison. Nice work, by the way.
@JazzGuitarNoob
5 жыл бұрын
Well, clearly the Martin is going to win this. It's got more overtones in the sound and it's rounder. But I'm frankly surprised the Epiphone sounds as good as it does to be that cheap. I dare say that if you used it at a show, nobody would come up to you after and tell you it sounded bad. The question of whether $3000 is worth it is subjective, of course. But I feel like you can get an excellent acoustic for half that. Brands like Breedlove, Yamaha or Blueridge make really good guitars that are cheaper than the Martin, but still sound great.
@AlexPriceMusician
5 жыл бұрын
Jazz Guitar Noob The Epiphone really surprised me too. I’d love to compare something a little more in the middle sometime - maybe from Eastman if I get a chance.
@waynzwhirled6181
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Alex. I am very late to the party, but just subscribed to your channel based on this video. I can't praise you enough. This is how guitar comparison videos should be done. I'm an old fart that's been playing guitar for over 45 years, and the fact that you are so young (compared to me) makes me even more impressed. My first guitar was one of those bolt-on-neck all-laminate Epiphones. (I just did a major repair on one last year for a good friend of mine.) He has been playing it at my monthly guitar group and it sounds pretty darn good for what it is. My second guitar was a nicer Epiphone with a solid top. I have had many different guitar brands since then (Seagull, Simon & Patrick, Yamaha, Martin, etc.), so I'm not married to Epiphone guitars. That said, the Epiphone stood up quite well against a Martin D28, which is really saying something. Does the Martin sound better? Of course. Is the Martin worth the extra money? Yes, if you can afford it. Could you get along with the Epiphone? Yes, for as long as you needed or wanted to.
@dannymccoy1783
Жыл бұрын
Love your comment. I'm 66.I been playing since I was 16.My first guitar was a GuildD35.My last guitar I've bought last week is a Epiphone P150.Is it as good as a 3000 dollar guitar? NO.But mannnn does this 60 dollar Epiphone sound greatttttt......Yep.🤣
@dannymccoy1783
Жыл бұрын
Meant PR150
@michealjovanie7143
4 жыл бұрын
I bought a used Epi DR-100 for 30 bucks and it made me hundreds of dollars. Can't afford a Martin yet but definitely will consider. Awesome video btw!
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Michael! Congrats on the purchase
@peterpulpitpounder
2 жыл бұрын
Being a personal owner of the HD28, I will say that there is much more music shade and potential represented in the HD28, which a good player will be able to draw out in his or her approach to the strings. There's just more richness, color and variation to be tapped into.
@redselectronics
Жыл бұрын
i think the martin is brighter and when comparing it think it is more of preference in what sound you like. i see it like this i would rather buy some ting i can work with rather them some ting i have to insure. There both great instruments
@dwainmcbain5263
Жыл бұрын
I think the Epi would stand out better in a mix. My understanding is the FT-100 is solid wood @ $259 cdn Nitro finish and torrified fret board.
@clinthennis5868
Жыл бұрын
Now between the two . The Epiphone sounds like the 1800's guitar . I have ear buds in . Plus I have an Epiphone DR 100 and love it .
@taiwangina7587
2 жыл бұрын
I just realized that expensive guitars have dampened and kinda solid with the low and the cheaper one have bright high tones and a little too bright low tones, but again.. one without the other is great, and we can't really sure which is better until we bought both guitars. so I will stick with epiphones for it's more affordable and I am not really earning any money with my guitar.
@moshebenavraham7221
4 жыл бұрын
Both sound good, of course Martin has a better quality sound but to be completely honest, it's not worth it. I would not pay that amount of money.
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your thoughts Bruno!
@howinsightful2391
3 жыл бұрын
Exactly
@robertnewell5057
4 жыл бұрын
Well, the Martin is a better instrument in every way. Tone, build quality. However, two things stand out. First, that Epi is a heck of a good guitar for the price. Can't see it being as well set up out of the box as the Martin, but tonewise it's outstanding for the price. Second, as with everything, the law of diminishing returns applies, so a $300 guitar might sound twice as good as the Epi, but a $3000 one won't sound 20 times as good! A sad fact of life. There are other advantages with the more expensive guitar, though. As I suggested. probably better set up with better fretwork, higher quality parts, better finish, more handmade processes, made in the USA.
@hrburrell
2 жыл бұрын
Martin has a warmer sound and and more harmonic overtones but to my ears the epi projected better and had a more clear tone.
@lionelpowell3112
2 жыл бұрын
Just happened upon this video is great and it is very informative, I am a total newbie on the guitar and I actually just purchased a DR-100. One thing that really stuck out to me in the video was the difference in the brilliance of the middle strings between the two guitars (The DR-100 had very high mids). That leads me to this question...Would you recommend mixing the strings on the DR-100 to have more of a balance from top to bottom like the Martin does and if you did what brand, size, etc.. would you recommend to achieve that goal?
@stephenbeaver2035
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the comparison!
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for commenting Stephen
@Dave93b
3 жыл бұрын
have you compressed/normalized the volume between the two guitars? One would expect the martin to be louder, especially with a lighter touch, but it's not the case. I'd be curious to see a test where you play both guitars with very aggressive strumming, it wouldn't surprise me if the epiphone could actually get louder, with its stiffer top being able to hold up better to heavy picking.
@endoffate5475
4 жыл бұрын
Get a Epiphone Master series and youll get that deep Martin tone for 1/4 of the price.. ;)
@andrewcalebgorospe2754
4 жыл бұрын
Exactly.
@nikolaikirkanovic
4 жыл бұрын
i dont think so but to your ears maybe
@CharlieRootsMusic
4 жыл бұрын
I'll take the bet you take name brands off and do bolt on modifications to make them exact ; blindfold folks even the best couldn't tell the difference.
@franciscocerutti9888
4 жыл бұрын
Which guitar feels more comfortable when playing?
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Definitely the Martin.
@alexgochman6654
4 жыл бұрын
I also have epiphone dr100 but for beginner i replace string with size 10 and itvsound very bad.do you think that replace to string 12 or 13 will improve sound ?
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Hi Alex - I recorded a video last year where I tested gauge 10 and 13 strings back to back on the DR-100. Listen for yourself and decide: kzitem.info/news/bejne/k4-mtKpshpNefno
@miopera40
3 жыл бұрын
these sound great with medium, anything below (light or extra light) sucks, it will hurt at the begining my friend
@alexgochman6654
3 жыл бұрын
@@AlexPriceMusician thanks alot
@tenebrismustdie
3 жыл бұрын
Martin's tone is a lot warmer than the other.
@leonarlo123
4 жыл бұрын
What's the song or chords that he's playing at 6:13?
@mathquir190
4 жыл бұрын
I totally can ear the difference but not the arguments... ;)
@alexgochman6654
4 жыл бұрын
what is size of string on epiphone dr100?
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Both were 13 gauge
@josephliptak
4 жыл бұрын
Is it made from real wood or fake wood?
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
The Epiphone is a laminate. Still "real" wood, but not solid like the Martin.
@IJustWannaSleep1
Жыл бұрын
unless youre dedicated to only acoustic, then dont get the martin
@wharfrat7773
3 жыл бұрын
Martin's last longer than original owners....they out live us. Yeah u can play a cheap guitar but why... life's short
@jackbenson1554
4 жыл бұрын
A cheap guitar in skilled hands sounds better than an expensive guitar in unskilled hands. $2,000 for guitar? I don't think so. Your money is better spent elsewhere.
@TheAtomBat
3 жыл бұрын
I have a fender CD-100 LH Nat, its all laminate... But i prefer it over a martin. I agree with you!
@natestrings673
5 жыл бұрын
Let me just judge both of these guitars with my $100 phone speakers real quick
@AlexPriceMusician
5 жыл бұрын
Nate Strings that’s your call brother 😎
@pizzaman5169
4 жыл бұрын
I started playing in 1962. I've had a plethora of guitars over the years, Fender(I had a 1951 Telecaster& 3 other acoustic models), Gibson, Martin, Rickenbacker & now, an Epi DT-100. I had stopped playing about 18 years ago as I have multiple physical disabilities. My hands & fingers were very arthritic & I didn't think I would ever play again My last guitar back then was a Martin D-28. One day, I just happened upon this Epi DT-100 on Prime. I thought "what the heck", the price was right, so I gave it a try. I was very surprised at the sound for such an inexpensive guitar. I did some neck work, sanded down the saddle & the nut & it's now easier for me to play. I pretty much have to keep in a limited, minimal range of simpler chord structures, but I can do things with my right hand I never could before. It's my left hand that is the weaker. I can no longer play bar chords(I've done all types of hand exercises), but I can still make some beautiful music. I was able, many moons ago, to jam with Richie Havens & Joe Walsh(he wanted my Tele. haha) ! I'm just happy to play again !
@maryamkhan4341
4 жыл бұрын
I'm happy for you!
@pizzaman5169
4 жыл бұрын
@@maryamkhan4341 Thank you. I also love an occasion to use the word "plethora" because there are too few !! hahaha
@maryamkhan4341
4 жыл бұрын
@@pizzaman5169 loool I know exactly what you mean
@d2freak82
4 жыл бұрын
You sound like you love playing, may I make a suggestion that will sound crazy but may allow you to play again? Try Grounding - I do it while I sleep, my hands and body feel miles better I can do things with my hands now I couldn't before. Give it a shot - it's free (earth grounding, you can even plug into the ground outlet in the wall)
@rogeliojayarflores7511
3 жыл бұрын
happy to hear that :) Keep going ^_^
@bhobg
4 жыл бұрын
The basses set them apart. The Martin has such deep resonant basses.
@j.a.h.vandelaak3477
3 жыл бұрын
Agreed
@ReckDemon
2 жыл бұрын
Which isn't necessarily better in most scenarios. Obviously the microphone has a role in this example, but the cheaper guitar sounded like it would fit in more instances than the more expensive one.
@steven94th74
4 жыл бұрын
The expensive one sounds better but the cheaper one gets the job done and probably most people couldn't tell any difference right away anyway
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Kind of my thoughts too
@atty.sahiradiong
4 жыл бұрын
This is so true..
@capohd28
3 жыл бұрын
A couple things. A cheap guitar won’t inspire you like a good guitar. Also, in the long term, the Martin will cost you nothing to own. Martins will hold their value over time, and if you buy an older one, will likely rise in value so, you basically get to play a great guitar for nothing in the long run. When your playing days are done, you’ve got a valuable investment you can sell, or even better leave as a legacy to your family.
@mikeg.9238
3 жыл бұрын
@@capohd28 Yeah but if your'e buying your first acoustic , $149 isn't gonna break the bank.
@capohd28
3 жыл бұрын
@@mikeg.9238 No it it won't, but it's also false economy. If you can't afford better than a $149 guitar, then you have more important things to spend money on or spend time on.. If you are buying cheap because your not sure you'll like playing, then it's a waste of money as a cheap guitar won't inspire you. Best to borrow a good guitar then decide if you want to get a decent guitar. I have lent guitars to friends myself. I have also given instruments to friends and family.
@DaveZula
3 жыл бұрын
Throw a bone saddle on the Epi and you'd be amazed at the improvement. This is the biggest and easiest tone upgrade you can do on a budget acoustic.
@aaronmason3086
Жыл бұрын
i am new to guitar...what does the bone saddle change about it?
@mattiecreates
Жыл бұрын
@@aaronmason3086 it will transfer resonance to the bridge the bridge then sends the resonance to the top of the guitar and that is how sound is made. a plastic saddle that sits in the bridge doesn't resonate as well as bone or wood. Great question BTW and i hope you stick with guitar , its frustrating at first but it pays off .. all good things take time
@garyswift83
11 күн бұрын
Yeah I have an Epiphone hummingbird performer pro and I put a bone saddle on it but not the new nut I have too I will put it on later. However it did transfer the tone a great deal. You are absolutely right about that a new bone saddle will surprise you every time and completely transform your tone
@garyswift83
11 күн бұрын
@@aaronmason3086it makes a much deeper sound and a little brighter tone on my Epiphone hummingbird performer pro a 500$ guitar in 2020. It came with a fake bone saddle and a bone nut I believe but I bought a new one to make sure because it all felt like plastic from the factory so I'm replacing both but for the time I just replaced the saddle and I have a deeper brighter bass tone and the resonance is so much better
@SamJ-re3yq
4 жыл бұрын
I have a DR-100 and it plays very well, it is a very good entry level guitar and it feels great for fingerstyle. I’m sure the Martin is much better, however for a difference of $2800 it just doesn’t sound worth it. There is definitely a guitar much cheaper than the Martin with a very similar tone and playability to it that would be a better alternative
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your thoughts!
@manfx7
4 жыл бұрын
What's ur dr100 made from?
@SamJ-re3yq
4 жыл бұрын
@@manfx7 it’s all laminate with mahogany back and sides and I think a spruce top. Ebony fingerboard. After 9 more months with this guitar I still believe it is a fantastic entry level but I’ve noticed it doesn’t play as great as I thought it did. Still highly recommend for beginners
@bwyou812
4 жыл бұрын
Change nut and bridge to bone or tusq and it will greatly change the tone and volume. You're comparing plastic vs probably bone. I own the Ebony DR 100 and also purchased a Epiphone piezo pickup system and it sounds fantastic.
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
True. The saddle and nut are one of the most important pieces of the puzzle as they make direct contact with the strings
@TheRedneckTelevision
4 жыл бұрын
Nothing about the sound of the martin says, "yea I better pay an extra $2,860"..... to me anyway.
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Chris Snyder thanks for your thoughts!
@CharlieRootsMusic
4 жыл бұрын
Exactly, Jamie Johnson dosent play a Dr 100 he uses an AJ 200 $399 and has went platinum and uses it every live show. I have a worked DR100 I use everyday because of the feel. The sound has been improved but was never bad in the first place to me. I love mine.
@shojimujoshojimujo3315
4 жыл бұрын
@@CharlieRootsMusic How did you improve the sound?
@CharlieRootsMusic
4 жыл бұрын
@@shojimujoshojimujo3315 lowered action, filed frets, changed saddle bone out and slapped ernie ball medium lights on and it's been a champ since. And upgraded machine heads and bridge pins.
@shojimujoshojimujo3315
4 жыл бұрын
@@CharlieRootsMusic Thanks for the info.
@flintdavis2
4 жыл бұрын
They’re not suppose to sound the same. It’s like comparing a honda to bmw, both will get the job done, but not everyone can afford a bmw or wants to.
@STRUMMERBOY1975
3 жыл бұрын
To my ear the Epiphone sounds pretty good. Add a Bone Nut and Bone Saddle, Ebony Bridge Pins, Best Quality Strings on the Epiphone,,, and then i don`t think the Martin price difference would be worth it.... :)
@lynzzyr
3 жыл бұрын
For some reason, the Epiphone sounds more delightful to me. I guess that's a good thing, as I won't need to get an expensive guitar to sound good.
@mikeg.9238
3 жыл бұрын
I agree , sounds crisper to me!
@vicpnut1
3 жыл бұрын
Yeah the martin was mostly low end and boomy . In just about every comparison through 7:40 the cheap epi was king .. granted I streamed via a lower end surround system (Sony that sound very decent and full range to my ears ) maybe it made the difference . But for my ears I’m glad I just ordered a lefty epi dr 100 song maker .. which is in back order btw
@mikeg.9238
3 жыл бұрын
@@vicpnut1 You won't be disappointed , I bought it a few months ago. Around the time I watched this review , the only thing I did was sand about an 1/8th of the saddle/bridge down. Because the action was to high for my preference even after I adjusted the truss rod. Now it's perfect for me and sounds great , I'm not a big acoustic guy. But I wanted one to use occasionally to play some Johnny Cash. P.s. You might want to try zZounds , if you don't want to wait. They had it in stock✌
@vicpnut1
3 жыл бұрын
@@mikeg.9238 thanks for the suggestion but , yeah ,oh I’m well acquainted with zzounds. They were the first place I bought guitars from (1 or two I badly wish I still had now , but $$ issues dictate if my hobby continues at times) but they actually estimate a 4 day longer wait than where I ended up ordering @AMS. It’s a lil tougher , all around actually for me as I’m a lefty . Usually it’s just the lack of options / models for us lefties but lately a lot of usually stocked guitars just aren’t in stock as of now . In fact I ordered 3 guitars this time on AMS’s awesome payment plans (very similar to zzounds ) and all 3 are on back order …. This epiphone which claims more expected 8/10/21 , a Luna acoustic which is expected late in September and a gretsch g5230 that doesn’t even have a date listed just “expected soon” as a time frame … it kind of sucks that ams has already started processing the first payment when the order isn’t even set to go out yet . Zzounds would wait and give me the option to cancel the order ahead of processing payment 1. Ams did offer to refund and cancel afterwards though … sorry for the lil tangent , just getting excited about the upcoming ngd , hopefully not to far off
@vicpnut1
3 жыл бұрын
@@mikeg.9238 thanks for the suggestion but , yeah ,oh I’m well acquainted with zzounds. They were the first place I bought guitars from (1 or two I badly wish I still had now , but $$ issues dictate if my hobby continues at times) but they actually estimate a 4 day longer wait than where I ended up ordering @AMS. It’s a lil tougher , all around actually for me as I’m a lefty . Usually it’s just the lack of options / models for us lefties but lately a lot of usually stocked guitars just aren’t in stock as of now . In fact I ordered 3 guitars this time on AMS’s awesome payment plans (very similar to zzounds ) and all 3 are on back order …. This epiphone which claims more expected 8/10/21 , a Luna acoustic which is expected late in September and a gretsch g5230 that doesn’t even have a date listed just “expected soon” as a time frame … it kind of sucks that ams has already started processing the first payment when the order isn’t even set to go out yet . Zzounds would wait and give me the option to cancel the order ahead of processing payment 1. Ams did offer to refund and cancel afterwards though … sorry for the lil tangent , just getting excited about the upcoming ngd , hopefully not to far off
@Stokenstein
2 жыл бұрын
That Martin sounds SO good. Epiphone surprised me for the price. I think where the Epiphone was really weak was father down the neck. No sustain or good intonation there. Epi also had this droning effect at times where as the Martin is so smooth and almost dampened, like it sounds like it’s in a sound proofed room at all times. So clear and balanced. I imagine with capos the Martin will be intonated a lot better. Martin is absolutely worth the price (can find used for $2200-$2500 with an older model that’s already aged a bit). If you only have $200, that Epiphone is great!
@AlexPriceMusician
2 жыл бұрын
Completely agree !
@randyshaves7956
4 жыл бұрын
The D-28 sounds more mellow, however, I have been playing guitar for 50 years, and I may be going deaf, 😊 but I definitely did not think the Martin sounded 20X better. The Martin name grabs people and a lot of times skews their true thinking. Personally, I think Taylor guitars have a much better tone than Martins. Also, I have an Epiphone EJ-200 Artist that has a wonderful sound. I play it almost as much as my Taylor depending on what I am playing. I bought it used at my local music store and they also had a Gibson J-200 which I compared to the Epiphone. Once again, the tones were a tad different, but the Gibson wasn't better, just different. Both Guitars sounded great, so I decided to pay $3500 less for the Epiphone. In a blind test I don't think many guitarists could tell me which one I was playing.
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
A great summary. Thanks for listening and writing!
@edyue1
4 жыл бұрын
I've heard a bunch of Taylors and it just doesn't seem to do for me what a Martin D-18 and above does. Taylors are nice sounding I guess it just depends on what style of music you you're playing. I haven't seen a lot of Taylors in bluegrass bands but I'm not sure if that's just player/industry preference.
@kelvynification
Жыл бұрын
The Epiphone has a really nice bright tone plus the neck is very very nice. The Martin has a beautiful tone. In some situations the epiphone might work better in a mix if you need the guitar to cut through.
@AncientEL07
2 жыл бұрын
Yamaha fg800, and Epiphone Dr 100 one of the two best guitar around $200 by far
@AlexPriceMusician
2 жыл бұрын
That Yamaha is fantastic. I’ve played it too.
@bikashth8539
3 жыл бұрын
Fun fact:- most people aren't musicians so they won't be able to tell any difference. My suggestion would be to get a solid top which fairly comes around $300. It will sound nice, won't break your budget, lasts long. Practicing is the key to success. All the best everyone.
@AlexPriceMusician
3 жыл бұрын
The Eastman PCH series is a great option for a solid top in that price range
@javierdiazsantana
3 жыл бұрын
They both sound good... The Epiphone with a bit more cut and brightness, the Martin is rounder and warmer...
@atulthapa9252
4 жыл бұрын
Epiphone sounds really good & Martin sounds excellent but the price difference between the both it's huge. Martin sounds more warm & deeper but not worth $2,860 more. It's basically due to the Martin manufactured in States & Epiphone somewhere in Asia...🤘😀🤘.....🙏🙏
@707king
4 жыл бұрын
The price of the Martin doesn’t just matter in sound, which it obviously will win here too.. but it also goes to quality of construction, woods chosen, and a lifetime warranty from one of the most prolific acoustic guitar brands in existence. A Martin guitar truly is (if you desire it to be) a family heirloom that will outlast you if taken care of. Is the price difference “worth it”? Well.. it depends on what the buyer is looking for. As for sound, the Martin to me sounds sweeter, rounder, warmer, and will definitely be louder with much friendlier bass response. The Epi is def a great starter / student guitar, though. Good comparison!
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Well put. It is also nice to know that when you buy a fine American instrument, your money is going supporting workers who are looked after by the company. I have heard nothing but great things about working for Martin. I've been to the factory twice myself.
@707king
4 жыл бұрын
Alex Price fun fact - in their entire existence, they’ve never laid off a worker.
@kipptt
4 жыл бұрын
casually playing day in a life. i love it
@mikeg.9238
3 жыл бұрын
I don't know if it's just me or not , but the dr sounds much crisper and more pronounced. I just bought the dr as my first acoustic , all my others are electric and i didn't want to spend a lot just in case i wasn't into it. But after this demo i'm glad i did. It sounds great for $149 IMO!
@AlexPriceMusician
3 жыл бұрын
It’s definitely a great guitar for the money. Congrats!
@mikeg.9238
3 жыл бұрын
@@AlexPriceMusician Thanks , but I have one question. I adjusted the truss rod but the action is still way to high. Is there a shim under the saddle or am I going to have to sand it down?
@petestaint8312
3 жыл бұрын
Agreed!
@dannymccoy1783
Жыл бұрын
You made the correct choice
@ernestschultz5065
4 жыл бұрын
the epiphone has more volume the martin has a richer tone. both sound just fine. i actually have an epiphone pr 150 and its a really nice guitar.
@TexasOldBikes
4 жыл бұрын
Me too. I'm an Epiphone fan and they sound great. Martin sounds great, obviously, but Epiphone won't hurt your pocket 😁
@moogyboy6
Жыл бұрын
Speaking as a DR-100 owner here...there's definitely a difference in tone, the Epi is brighter, the Martin has a fatter, midrangey tone, a sweet tone. There's probably no comparison in build quality or fit and finish. In other words, Epi=a functional instrument, Martin=a fine instrument. Is it worth the enormous premium? It depends. For all but the most discriminating pros who are performing solo or recording a high profile album, I'd argue no.(Guitar collectors and Martin enthusiasts are a whole other matter.) For a giggng musician playing local clubs or indie recording in a home studio, the DR-100 would be more than completely adequate (I've done plenty of recording with mine),, and a Martin is total overkill except for the prestige of the brand. Calling the Epi a "beginner" guitar is unfair imo, as the term carries certain connotations; I'd prefer "entry level".
@janichmondieu6505
3 жыл бұрын
The Epi is a great bargain and projected some higher notes louder. The Martin had a much richer sound, smoother and less jangley. Unless you make a good living as a musician, the Martin a silly purchase. I will be getting the Epiphone. To be my only acoustic. Thanks.
@domdimensions9219
2 ай бұрын
You can get some nice solid top guitars for 300-1000 dollars, and for around 1000-1500 dollars you can get some nice all solid wood guitars, including epiphone masterbilt, yamaha all solid wood guitars, and many more. No need to spend martin prices for a quality instrument in my opinion.
@luxtobeyou
4 жыл бұрын
The Epiphone DR-100 was the first guitar I ever got, and every time I play it I'm still pleasantly surprised at how well it's held up for the price I got it at, after 3-4 years of semi-regular play. The string quality can drastically change the way this thing plays, so if you want a guitar like this for cheap, splurge on the strings a little. The Epiphone definitely has trouble resonating with deeper notes compared to higher notes, but again, it's only a $140 guitar, so you can't expect perfection. I'd say for anyone getting into guitar, this thing is perfect. Not pricey by any means in terms of guitar, but it doesn't play like you dragged it out of a dumpster as well 😂
@aaronmason3086
Жыл бұрын
bought one recently and it sounds about as good as my fender fa100 that has 9 year old strings on it and has a broken saddle lol... hard to play as well .. is it the strings?
@Melbournelost66
Жыл бұрын
I think the Epiphone DR 100 is a great value guitar. Of course the Martin is better, warmer with more depth, but the Epi is a good value guitar to start off with.
@allenlewis892
23 күн бұрын
I actually liked the Epiphone cheap version.though I'm a fan of both guitars .I had an ft-79 Texan I miss so much but as long as that x braced body under epi .even cheaply made sounded beautiful
@crankupjb2670
3 жыл бұрын
That guitar is not worth 4000 dollars
@caerparavel
Ай бұрын
Epiphone is obviously brighter, but not so much iin the higher ranges. 3k difference? depends on the individual I guess and what they are willing to pay for that level of prestige.
@williamtggordon3492
Жыл бұрын
I found the Epiphone DR-100 much brighter than the Martin HD-28. I can't compare the difference in price, In that region the Epiphone wins hands down. I have been playing guitar for 70 years & I think expensive guitars are a waste of money. I have an Encore acoustic I bought for £28 & I love it. Just my opinion of course.
@renmad0078
8 ай бұрын
The 4 bases strings resonates much deeper for martin for the 2 others i ear no differences. So it's exact it's the solid wood who make all the differences. But i'm really very impress by this DR-100 it have nothing to be affrayed is thid duel. It's very good demo sound.thanks a lot 🙏😉👍
@sethcall2916
3 ай бұрын
Out of all the martins iv played those dr 100’s plays better and mine is my primary gig guitar. Just put elixir strings and grover tuners on it. Maybe ever put a d28 style pick guard on it. The only problem is it does not have a pre amp installed. But you still can’t beat it for the price.
@tonygarner3942
7 ай бұрын
Really like the video. I’m curious about something. You mentioned you’d just put the strings on a couple minutes ago, did they get a full stretch cycle to the point that that wouldn’t stretch out of tune anymore? That makes a pretty big difference in tone. They will sound extra bright and tinny until they’re stretched. Like a 10 minute process.
@MissCase530
Жыл бұрын
I listened on Sennheiser headphones. I just bought a DR 100. It has too much high. The Martin clearly has a more mellow sound with rich mid and bass. You can definitely use a DR 100 for some things, for example slide guitar would be great. Otherwise the Martin definitely is worth the extra. As a tip, I found a real cheap guitar called an "Academy", made in China. Cost like $30 so I bought 3 as beaters for campfires and such. Could have been the manufacturing batch and others won't be like it , but I was surprised that after I changed the cheap strings it came with, it the sound was awesome. Mellow and rich like a Martin, the neck was flat with zero buzzing frets and it just sounded good. They must have properly cloned a Martin because it plays that way, or just an act of God on the production line of cheap guitars. Do check one out though if you come across. About the only cheap guitar I've ever found that I like.
@louisbailey4900
9 ай бұрын
Is it worth the extra cash? Hmmm... Depends on ones taste in sound. For me...that epi has a more brite,lively sound with greater volume and sustain. The martin is a martin...tend to sound mellower and flatter than most other brands. For me...if money grew on trees...id still buy the epi...because that dound suits to the musoc i play. If i were to play like Billy Strings,and git paid to perform...the Martin. Because its made for that dtyle of music.
@eazyrider6122
8 ай бұрын
You can get 2 high end Martin guitars of the same year and model and they will not sound the same. Each guitar will have its own sound like a finger print. They also change tone over time as they are played.
@leeturton9254
Жыл бұрын
Martin sounds better but does it sound 3grand better?...not really... I'd be kinda disappointed if i bought that to be honest....the expensive guitar I've played and heard that's wowed me is the Gibson sj200... those sound like the money you pay
@emmakeyser1459
2 жыл бұрын
Proving once again that it's not what your money can buy but your experience.A good guitarist can make a stick with strings sound great.In 1979 I started out with a guild D40 and it sounded better than anyones guitar no matter what they were playing but I did not have the skills that I have now and you guessed it, I can no longer afford a Guild D40 so I play whatever I can get my hands and fingers on.Currently its a Epiphone masterbuilt Frontier thats almost a 3rd of the price a a guild D40 traditional but it's a good sounding guitar in its own right.
@BeefheartLynch
3 жыл бұрын
Ok, I'm going to be that guy. I can't answer for most people, but I could tell a huge difference between the two, and it really wasn't close. The Martin sounded so much better than the Epiphone. We are talking landslide difference in my opinion. The Epiphone is a great guitar for its price, the Martin is a great, world class guitar at any price. To me, the Epiphone sounded tinny and buzzy. Almost like a toy. The Martin sounded full and rich.
@Shepetunka
3 жыл бұрын
I 've just bought a second hand Epiphone in pristine condition for $90 Haha
@AlexPriceMusician
2 жыл бұрын
Congrats! I'm sure it's a great instrument
@Shepetunka
2 жыл бұрын
@@AlexPriceMusician I'm surprised and amazed of how good it is. BTW, great videos...! 🎸✌
@jasonwoodward4601
2 жыл бұрын
The DR 100 is an awesome entry level guitar while the Martin is well….a Martin, they obviously got their name because they produce high quality instruments, not an ideal comparison cause both these guitars are targeted at a difference audience, for me if u have the cash to spare then obviously no one is going to chose the Epiphone over the Martin however most people don’t and then it’s awesome that there is a great quality and build guitar like the Epiphone. In my opinion you are comparing apples with oranges, anybody who knows anything about guitars will tell you that, great video none the less
@Jacques0826
2 жыл бұрын
The Martin superior but hardly worth the difference. In between and as good a sounding as the Martin is the Godin, Metropolis for under $1k, or even the concert Godin Fairmount, and both acoustic electric.
@FDRHOOK
2 жыл бұрын
I believe the Martin is beautiful and sounds good but the tone is to low I think. I’m an epiphone fan not just for the price but this d-100 has a great high end as well as a very mellow sound. To much price difference between them for me.
@SnarkyRC
Жыл бұрын
Once you install better tuners and better strings, the DR-100 is a solid player. I have Grover tuners and DR Veritas phosphor bronze strings on mine.
@uzimxrtyr7467
2 жыл бұрын
I own a early 70s d45 and also have a 200$ fender dg7 from the late 80s and I love the Martin more however the fender has a more bright ring to it I’ll admit but build quality is an obvious answer who wins but both are great guitars that have their individual pros
@caerparavel
Ай бұрын
you,'e not even playing the notes in the same neck position. of course there's going to be a difference.
@satori401
3 жыл бұрын
the martin is less twangy and has better low tones imo. still my dr-100 is coming im the mail bc you wont catch me spending 3k on a guitar when i could get a project car for that price.
@jthusany
2 жыл бұрын
Make sure you close your eyes before listening because the price will lean you towards the more expensive one because you expect it to sound better, so close your eyes and listen, it also depends on what sounds you like.
@Anthony-qh1xv
Жыл бұрын
Strings
@ilovejapanesemusic3858
3 ай бұрын
🤔Thank you for doing this comparison, now I understand.
@gee620
2 жыл бұрын
If you have money to buy expensive guitar and you have the talent to play it then it is worth buying it. If you just want to show off that you have an expensive guitar but you dont use it and you dont know how to play it then it is not worth it.
@nonjaninja4904
Жыл бұрын
I actually kind of like the Epiphone more, sacrilege, I know.
@Noumenon4Idolatry
2 жыл бұрын
I like the epiphone being brighter. The bass sounded kind of muddy on the Martin when in a mic.
@sushimaster77
Жыл бұрын
I wonder how the epiphone would sound if you scalloped the braces, or is that pointless on a laminated top?
@alexgochman6654
4 жыл бұрын
sound on martin is more open but the diff in price is very large.i think that guitar for 750$ is good and beater then cheap guitar .no need to pay 3000 $ for guitar
@lilkeph20
4 жыл бұрын
Oh my Goodness. I'm listening to this video through my Seinheiser 598SRs. I can hear some distinct differences between these guitars, which I'll explain as best as I can through some imagery: If both of these guitars were wolves, the Epiphone would be growling, while the Martin is howling. The Epiphone's sound is rugged like ice from an outdoor hockey rink, that's been skated on for weeks without a fresh layer. The Martin's sound is as smooth and satisfying as that first stride on an indoor rink, right after the zamboni has layed a fresh layer of water. The Epiphone's sound tastes like cereal that have been soaked in milk for over 5 minutes; they soggily sink to the bottom of the bowl. The Martin's sound is like Honey Nut Cheerios™️ on which milk was freshly poured; they still have their strong rounded shape, they float harmonically on the milk's surface, and they taste like real honey. The Epiphone's color gamut is like watching this very video at 240p resolution; you can see the image, but detains are faint (go, try it). The Martin's color gamut is like watching this video at 1080p, and noticing little details like the oscillation of the guitar strings after each of Alex's strum's (also try it). Great video!
@ConnorJMC41
4 жыл бұрын
Wow, very true
@danielrains2055
3 жыл бұрын
Step up to the epiphone 150 n ull have a even closer comparison. 150 sounds better than the 100. N it's only $50 more.
@will3910
4 жыл бұрын
Both sounded decent tho the martin has a superior sound, but I think the martin is for the people who wants the highest quality of acoustic guitars, and the epiphone for people who wants a decent guitar.
@RichardKraneis
11 ай бұрын
Martin is dulcet compared to Epiphone. Martin resonates better with lower notes than the Epiphone. I almost "hear" the better Martin woods ringing better than the Epiphone. But the Martin isn't 20 times musically better than the Epiphone. Not to me. How am I watching your video? I put on my hearing aides and broadcast your video on my Samsung TV. A few days ago I strummed an Epiphone DR-100 at a used guitar store. It's made in 2013 (10 years old). The luthier had put new strings on it and shaved down the bridge. Low action. I strummed it with my thumb. Very good. I strummed with a pic. Wow. It rang out wonderfully throughout the store. So it won my heart. It even inspired me to finish a riff I had been working upon. Cool. After your great video I'm walking in chilly Chicago to buy it for $100 and find a decent case for it. A persuasive video (thank you) and a great $100 guitar when set up professionally.
@AlexPriceMusician
11 ай бұрын
Richard, congrats on the new guitar! I agree - the Epiphone is certainly a fine instrument for the price. It's hard to beat the Martin, but if it inspires you to play, that's all that matters.
@RichardKraneis
10 ай бұрын
@@AlexPriceMusician I did buy the Epiphone DR-100. It's nickname is "Boomer". I'll never my first strum on it and how it sang out filling the guitar store.
@0713mas
4 жыл бұрын
Headphones, sounds great! Martin has more warmth and sustain. I think you could get most of that for around $500.00, the epiphone masterbilts are a good middle of the road solid wood guitar, Blueridge guitars also makes A great solid wood Matin clone. I think if someone is a serious player, and loves Martin and can afford one, it's always worth the money!
@sushimaster77
Жыл бұрын
In my opinion, the most important considerations (especially for a beginner) are how well it stays in tune and playability. But if you catch the guitar bug, you can overlook a lot of defects. That being said, an intrument with great tone is a joy to play. And it is difficult to describe what makes a tone good.
@aaronmason3086
Жыл бұрын
bought one recently and it sounds about as good as my fender fa100 that has 9 year old strings on it and has a broken saddle lol... hard to play as well
@edyue1
4 жыл бұрын
I have a 1981 Martin HD-28 that I've owned since 1992, so I'm super biased but I have to say that the Epiphone didn't sound terrible. Just brighter, less resonance, and depending on what style you played. I love my Martin and it's the only guitar I own and don't have any desire to own another unless I find a pre-1969 D-28 Brazilian for less than $3k (I don't think that will happen in this l ifetime). Great comparison by the way, you seemed to eliminate most of the variables when playing each guitar.
@AlexPriceMusician
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks! I’ve been playing my HD-28 a ton lately, and I have to agree.
@SynergyCeleste
4 жыл бұрын
The Martin is sweeter not as flat... But HOW DO THEY FEEL TO PLAY???
@TheCarolo08
2 жыл бұрын
la martin est mieux, pas 20x mieux mais un peu mieux et c est le" un peu" qui fait la difference
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