These could be two of the most significant guitars in acoustic guitar history. The Martin D18 and the Gibson J45 both have Sitka Spruce tops, they’re both x braced with Mahogany necks, back and sides, and Grover Rotomatic tuners. But they differ in body size and scale length which gives them each a much different sound.
Tell us which one you prefer in the comments below!
The is a part of our “VS” series that pits two acoustic guitars against each other so you can get a better feel for the inherent sound differences between tone woods, manufacturing styles, and body styles.


Taylor Custom Rosewood GO
Taylor Custom 12 fret Macassar GC
Taylor Custom 12 fret Cedar GC
Taylor 12 fret Custom Koa GC
Taylor Custom 956ce 12 string
Taylor GS 12 string Quilted Maple
Martin Used D12 David Crosby
Used 1997 Taylor 710 Brazilian
Taylor Custom Walnut GC
Taylor Custom Koa Grand Orchestra
Tony Polecastro
I like the gibson J45. It has a deeper sound that I like.
I like the Martin best I like the deep base sound.
I own the Martin 2012 d-18 and I love it.