Martin Billy Strings D28 with Harcase

The Martin D-28 Billy Strings Signature Model is a collaboration that blends the classic, pre-war aesthetic of the iconic D-28 Dreadnought with custom, performance-focused specifications tailored for Billy Strings' electrifying bluegrass flatpicking style.

It is a premium, all-solid wood instrument that ships with a Hardshell Case.

Key Custom Features

This model differs from a standard Martin D-28 (or even the vintage-spec HD-28) in several critical areas to suit Billy Strings' preferences for speed and reduced string tension:

• Custom Scale Length: It features a unique 25.0-inch scale length, which is shorter than Martin's standard 25.4 inches for Dreadnoughts. This slightly reduced string tension makes the guitar easier to play fast, facilitates expressive string bends, and provides a warmer overall tone.

• Custom Nut Width: The nut width is set to 1\ 23/32 inches (43.7mm or 1.718 inches). This size is slightly wider than the vintage 1-11/16 inches but narrower than the modern 1-3/4 inches, providing a comfortable compromise that many flatpickers find ideal for high-speed runs and precise picking.

• Neck Profile: Modified Low Oval profile with a Satin finish, providing a fast and comfortable feel.

 Standard D-28 Specifications & Appointments

• Body Size: D-14 Fret (Dreadnought)

• Top Wood: Solid Spruce (often Sitka) with Antique Toner finish.

• Back & Sides Wood: Solid East Indian Rosewood. This is the classic pairing for the D-28, known for its deep bass, rich overtones, and massive projection.

• Bracing: Forward-Shifted Scalloped X-Bracing (often referred to as Golden Era or GE Scalloped). This enhances the top's movement for a louder, more resonant, and vintage-like sound.

• Top Inlay: Bold Herringbone purfling (a feature commonly associated with the HD-28).

• Fingerboard Material: Ebony

• Fingerboard Inlays: Abalone Diamonds and Squares Long Pattern inlays, adding a vintage touch.

• Neck Material: Genuine Mahogany

• Nut & Saddle: Bone (Compensated Bone Saddle)

• Tuning Machines: Nickel Enclosed Gear with Butterbean knobs (a unique choice for a D-28, which often features open-gear tuners).

• Electronics: None (Purely acoustic, reflecting the traditional bluegrass preference).

The Martin D-28 Billy Strings model is an exceptional instrument for players who want the classic aesthetics and tone of a pre-war D-28, but with custom performance features designed for modern virtuosic acoustic playing.