Custom Shop Build Overview

Martin HD-28 Adirondack 1 11/16" Nut #3053215

The Martin HD-28 Adirondack 1 11/16" is a powerful, player-focused take on the classic herringbone dreadnought, combining the rich harmonic complexity of rosewood with the added headroom of an Adirondack spruce top and the fast, comfortable feel of a narrower nut width.

This build pairs a solid Adirondack spruce top with East Indian rosewood back and sides, delivering deep bass, shimmering overtones, and a wide dynamic range. Adirondack spruce is prized for its stiffness and strength, allowing the guitar to maintain clarity and projection even under aggressive playing.

With classic Style 28 herringbone appointments and traditional construction, this instrument delivers timeless Martin tone with enhanced performance and playability.

Why Adirondack on an HD-28 Matters

Adirondack spruce enhances the traditional rosewood dreadnought by increasing projection, headroom, and tonal authority.

Greater headroom for heavy strumming and flatpicking
Deep, piano-like bass with strong fundamental clarity
Enhanced projection and overall volume
Responsive top that continues to open up over time

Combined with East Indian rosewood, the result is a full-spectrum tone with rich overtones, powerful bass, and excellent sustain.

1 11/16" Nut Width – Why It Matters

The 1 11/16" nut width offers a slightly narrower feel compared to the standard 1 3/4", making this guitar especially appealing to players who prefer a faster, more compact neck profile.

Quicker feel for fast flatpicking and lead work
Comfortable transition for electric players
Reduced left-hand fatigue for extended sessions
Balanced spacing without sacrificing playability

This makes the guitar an excellent choice for players who want the power of a dreadnought with a more streamlined feel.

Construction & Craftsmanship

Handcrafted in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, this instrument features Martin’s traditional dovetail neck joint and solid tonewood construction for maximum resonance and long-term stability.

The forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing allows the top to move more freely, enhancing bass response, sustain, and overall tonal openness.

Classic Style 28 herringbone detailing gives the guitar its iconic pre-war inspired appearance while keeping the focus on tone and performance.

Tone & Performance

The HD-28 platform is known for its powerful low end, rich overtone content, and strong projection. With the addition of an Adirondack top, this version delivers increased headroom and responsiveness, making it ideal for dynamic playing styles.

Deep, resonant bass with strong projection
Rich overtone complexity and sustain
Clear articulation across the tonal range
Excellent responsiveness for both light and heavy attack

This makes the guitar an outstanding choice for bluegrass players, flatpickers, and anyone seeking a powerful rosewood dreadnought with enhanced performance and playability.