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hummingbird or martin d 35 SINGER


Desolationrow

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Posted

As an owner of both, they are very different. Grunt is correct. The D35 is louder. It is also less crisp, but it is marvelously resonant strummed and fingerstyle.

 

If I could choose only one of those two guitars, I would choose the D35.

 

If I could choose only one Martin or Gibson, and not limiting myself to those two guitars, it would be a very touch choice between the J45 and D35. I prefer the J45 over the Bird.

 

Please... the Bird and the D35 are so very different, sit down and play them; it will become very clear to you what works best with your style. They are both incredible instruments.

Posted

This is like choosing between a Cadillac and a Lincoln. Both are great guitars...but they are different. Play them both and then pick the one that suits you. You won't be sorry whichever way you go.

Posted

IF you can A/B them - you might consider which has the most range or versatility. In other words - which is easier for you to get the top moving on AND also, for a different song - produce clear articulate sounds at half the decibels. Do you want one that is good for BOTH performing and writing? Or more one than the other. And, if you're going to play 'plugged' in - is that how you will be performing and writing?

IMHO, the choice is obvious. But, then - I'm biased.

Posted

Some excellent comments already, Ill add my spin on it.

 

If you like full strumming where the harmony and string seperation really comes through (Oasis comes to mind) then the Hummingbirid I find is hard to beat.

 

If you like to do sort of hybrid or gently strumming where you sort of pick at the strings a bit more, maybe just strike several strings at the time then the D-35 might be the best option as those individual strings will really be emphasised.

Posted

First - Are we still talking that '71 Bird you brought up the other day !? I mean, that guitar, , , and in general the type of Bird is crucial before comparing the two mentioned models.

 

I happen to have both, but paradoxically is not the best to ask. Simply because the 35 served me as an immaculate squire for 25 years and the Bird-craze is relatively new.

Thus the TV HB gets lots of attention, which means the 1984 Mart. often is left to sleep over.

However it was brought out of the house the day before yesterday - to make an A/B with another 35 from the early 70's.

Had to be done and apart from the strings the two are very similar - almost twin-like (if anyone is interested).

 

Back to the main road where your question still rolls.

 

In my opinion this isn't so much about what the different guitars can do. They are both excellent tools and will answer whatever is asked when you call.

The right Bird may even be almost as loud as the 35 and you'll naturally be able to write on both - eeeehh, songwriters can write on tennis-racks if needed.

What's important is HOW they answer - and prolong your identity as an individual artist/caller.

 

Therefor as always, the big and highly interesting'n'necessary challenge about choice is knowing who you are.

Every free choice in this category in life holds the question :

 

How deeply do I know and feel myself. Enough the act on it and make the decision last ??

 

Well, we'll all find out when you make the final move.

The rest of us are only small beeping sparrows around the hotdog-stand here - You and you alone know what is needed for lunch.

And when you give the man the order, you're never in doubt, are you, , , you just know it's right. .

 

 

 

Keep us updated as you go, Deso - and enjoy the walk

Posted

On guitars like a Hummingbird and D35, I figure you play whatever music you like. Actually, you can play whatever music you like on whatever guitar you have. Some guitars are not as good for fingerpicking or R%R, but you can still use them. for that. The D35 has more volume, the Hummingbird has more warmth. Personal variables also apply: who you are, how you express yourself through your guitar, your technique. Personally, I'd go with the Hummingbird. To me the D35 looks like a lot of other Martins.

Posted

You will be fine if you bear in mind that Hummingbirds and D-35s both vary greatly from one example to the next. Play a few of each before letting a second hand opinion influence you too much. The right one will call your name when the time's right.

Posted

hello guys, i am a singer songwriter and my options are a gibson hummingbird and a martin d 35, both guitars are famous for supporting singer songwriters. Opinions? thanks a lot

 

 

No help from me with your decision, except it could depend on your outfit...... [biggrin]

 

 

 

BluesKing777.

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