What is the body shape of the Martin D-X2E?

The Martin D-X2E features the iconic Dreadnought body shape, known for its large size, high volume, and strong bass response.

Is the Brazilian rosewood on this guitar solid wood?

No, the back and sides are made from High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) that features a pattern designed to resemble the appearance of Brazilian rosewood.

What material is used for the top of the D-X2E?

The guitar is crafted with a solid spruce top that features a satin finish for a smooth feel and look.

What are the benefits of HPL back and sides?

High-Pressure Laminate is highly durable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, making it an excellent choice for travelling musicians.

Does the D-X2E come with electronics?

Yes, it is an electro-acoustic guitar equipped with an internal pickup and preamp system for connection to amplifiers or PA systems.

What playability improvements have been made to this model?

The D-X2E features a thinner fingerboard with a bevelled comfort edge, refined string spacing, and a modernised bridge contour.

What is the typical price for the Martin D-X2E Brazilian Rosewood?

The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 696, though this may vary by retailer.

Does the guitar have a rosette?

Yes, it features an elegant abalone pattern rosette around the soundhole.

How does the D-X2E compare to the Martin LX1E?

The D-X2E is a full-sized dreadnought guitar, whereas the LX1E (Little Martin) is a much smaller 3/4 scale travel guitar.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

While it is a professional-quality instrument, its enhanced playability features and durable HPL construction make it a very suitable choice for serious beginners.

What kind of finish does the spruce top have?

The spruce top is finished with a satin coating, which provides a non-reflective, natural look and feel.

What other brands offer similar electro-acoustic guitars?

Similar alternatives include the Sigma DTC-28HE, Fender Newporter Player, and the Guild F-2512E, though each offers different body shapes and materials.

Gear article

Martin D-X2E Brazilian Rosewood Electro Acoustic

The Martin D-X2E Brazilian Rosewood is a remastered dreadnought electro-acoustic guitar that combines a satin-finished spruce top with high-pressure laminate (HPL) back and sides. Part of Martin's X Series, it is designed to offer the brand's signature aesthetic and durability at a mid-range price point of approximately £696.

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Overview and Design

The Martin D-X2E Brazilian Rosewood is a full-sized dreadnought guitar that represents a modernisation of the X Series. Its primary design feature is the use of high-pressure laminate (HPL) for the back and sides, printed with a high-fidelity pattern mimicking the rare and sought-after Brazilian rosewood. This choice provides a high level of durability against temperature and humidity changes compared to traditional solid woods. The guitar is topped with a satin-finished spruce soundboard, accented by a decorative abalone pattern rosette, maintaining a professional and classic aesthetic.

Playability and Construction

Martin has implemented several refinements to the D-X2E to enhance player comfort. The instrument features a thinner fingerboard compared to earlier iterations, complemented by a gently bevelled comfort edge. The string spacing has been refined to allow for easier fretting and movement across the neck. Additionally, the bridge contour has been modernised to improve the ergonomics of the picking hand, making it suitable for both flatpicking and fingerstyle techniques.

Sound Character

The combination of a spruce top and HPL body results in a tone that aims for the 'classic Martin' sound—characterised by a strong projection and a balanced frequency response. The dreadnought body shape naturally emphasises the lower frequencies, providing a full-bodied resonance. The spruce top contributes brightness and clarity, ensuring that the guitar remains articulate when played through an amplifier or acoustically.

Target Audience

This instrument is positioned for players who require a reliable performance guitar that can withstand the rigours of travel and varied environments. Due to the HPL construction, it is less susceptible to the cracking or warping that can affect all-solid-wood instruments. It serves as an accessible entry point for those desiring the Martin brand identity and dreadnought tone without the significant investment required for their Standard Series models.

Market Comparisons

Within the electro-acoustic market, the D-X2E competes with a variety of instruments across different body sizes. While it offers the full-scale dreadnought experience, players seeking smaller travel options might consider the Martin LX1E or the Yamaha APXT2. For those looking for different tonewoods or larger jumbo bodies, the Gretsch G5022CWFE Rancher Falcon or the Guild F-2512E 12-string provide alternative sonic textures. More premium options like the Taylor PS14ce exist at a much higher price point, whereas the D-X2E remains focused on the sub-£700 professional-utility segment.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body shape of the Martin D-X2E?: The Martin D-X2E features the iconic Dreadnought body shape, known for its large size, high volume, and strong bass response.
Is the Brazilian rosewood on this guitar solid wood?: No, the back and sides are made from High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) that features a pattern designed to resemble the appearance of Brazilian rosewood.
What material is used for the top of the D-X2E?: The guitar is crafted with a solid spruce top that features a satin finish for a smooth feel and look.
What are the benefits of HPL back and sides?: High-Pressure Laminate is highly durable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, making it an excellent choice for travelling musicians.
Does the D-X2E come with electronics?: Yes, it is an electro-acoustic guitar equipped with an internal pickup and preamp system for connection to amplifiers or PA systems.
What playability improvements have been made to this model?: The D-X2E features a thinner fingerboard with a bevelled comfort edge, refined string spacing, and a modernised bridge contour.
What is the typical price for the Martin D-X2E Brazilian Rosewood?: The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 696, though this may vary by retailer.
Does the guitar have a rosette?: Yes, it features an elegant abalone pattern rosette around the soundhole.
How does the D-X2E compare to the Martin LX1E?: The D-X2E is a full-sized dreadnought guitar, whereas the LX1E (Little Martin) is a much smaller 3/4 scale travel guitar.
Is this guitar suitable for beginners?: While it is a professional-quality instrument, its enhanced playability features and durable HPL construction make it a very suitable choice for serious beginners.
What kind of finish does the spruce top have?: The spruce top is finished with a satin coating, which provides a non-reflective, natural look and feel.
What other brands offer similar electro-acoustic guitars?: Similar alternatives include the Sigma DTC-28HE, Fender Newporter Player, and the Guild F-2512E, though each offers different body shapes and materials.