
( Brand: Martin ), ( Model: 5-15T ), ( Part Type: Tenor Guitar ), ( Style: Tenor ), ( String Configuration: 4 String ), ( Model Year: 1928 ), ( Body Type: Parlor )
Step into the world of vintage stringed instruments and discover the enchanting 1928 Martin 5-15 Tenor Guitar. This acoustic gem, crafted by the legendary Martin Guitar Company, is a desired collectible item and a versatile musical instrument that continues to captivate guitar enthusiasts and artists alike.
Body and Design:Setting the tone for this antique beauty is its distinct design. Measuring in at 29 inches in length, the Martin 5-15 Tenor Guitar is smaller than its six-string counterpart, making it an excellent option for players with smaller hands or seeking a unique tonal character. Its solid mahogany body, with its luxurious satin finish, exudes an inviting warmth and charm that only comes with age and craftsmanship. The tenor guitar's slanted-airline body shape provides a more compact profile, and the beautiful appointment details include herringbone rosette and binding that add classic elegance to its design.
Neck and Fingerboard:The neck on the 1928 Martin 5-15 Tenor Guitar is made from part-walnut, enhancing its tonal quality and providing a comfortable feel. Measuring a scale length of 17 inches, the neck is a perfect size for playing tenor-sized instruments. Its fingerboard, crafted from rich ebony, boasts pearl position markers, making fretting and navigation effortless for players.
Hardware:The 1928 Martin 5-15 Tenor Guitar is outfitted with an open-gear tuning machine, an essential component of maintaining pitch stability and tone. The original nickel-plated hardware retains an antique patina that adds character to this vintage piece. A mastery bridge dominates the tail end of the instrument, while a tortoiseshell pickguard protects the top.
Tone and Sound:The Martin 5-15 Tenor Guitar pairs a unique sound with its vintage charm. Its smaller size and tonal characteristics offer a special sound palette that differentiates it from its larger counterparts. Its straight-grained mahogany body generates a warm, rich tone with excellent projection and a mellow sound that resonates beautifully when strummed or finger-picked.
Condition and Maintenance:This vintage instrument underwent thorough restoration, ensuring its structural integrity while retaining its originality. Its frets, which were replaced, have a pristine, low profile, allowing for effortless playability. A brand-new freshly-strung set of strings embraces the perfect balance between maintainability and a vintage-appropriate feel. As with any vintage instrument, it is recommended that this guitar be regularly maintained and professionally serviced to preserve its quality and playability.
Conclusion:The 1928 Martin 5-15 Tenor Guitar is a treasure waiting to be experienced by those who appreciate the artistry, tonal character, and timeless elegance that acoustic guitars from this era embody. Whether embellishing a music collection or taking the stage for a performance, the Martin 5-15 Tenor Guitar is an instrument that not only delivers an unforgettable experience but also an investment in the rich history of wonderful, vintage Martin Guitars.
The Martin Tenor Guitar, particularly the 1928 model, is an excellent instrument for musicians seeking a unique and versatile addition to their collection. This in-depth analysis provides pros, cons, and a conclusive recommendation to help you make an informed decision about purchasing this era's prized Martin Tenor Guitar.
Pros:1. Rich and full-bodied tone: Martin Tenor Guitars, including the 1928 model, produce a warm, rich, and full-bodied tone that is perfect for various musical styles, including folk, jazz, country, and blues.
2. Unique tuning possibilities: With its ten strings (four courses of G, C, E, and A), the Martin Tenor Guitar offers expanded tuning possibilities compared to standard 6-string guitars, making it an ideal choice for session work, live performances, or simply exploring new sounds.
3. Rare and collectible: Martin Tenor Guitars, especially pre-war models like the 1928 version, are increasingly becoming collectible items. owning a 1928 Martin Tenor could be a great investment for passionate and discerning collectors.
4. Superior craftsmanship: Martin guitars are renowned for their exceptional construction and attention to detail. The 1928 Martin Tenor benefits from this legacy, making it a high-quality instrument that showcases Martin's fine workmanship.
5. Versatility: The tenor guitar's smaller size and extended range make it incredibly versatile. It is well-suited for traveling musicians and studio work, as well as for players interested in playing various playing styles.
Cons:1. Learning curve: Due to the unusual size, shape, and ten strings, playing the Martin Tenor Guitar can be challenging for beginners. It may require additional time and effort to learn its intricacies, particularly certain chord shapes and playing techniques.
2. High cost: As a collectible and high-quality instrument, the 1928 Martin Tenor Guitar tends to carry a higher price tag than standard, mass-produced six-string guitars.
3. Limited availability: Finding a well-preserved, pre-war Martin Tenor Guitar in good working condition and within your budget might prove difficult due to the rarity of these instruments.
4. Requires specialized care: Aged and rare instruments like the 1928 Martin Tenor Guitar demand particular care and maintenance to preserve their value and playability. Finding a reputable and knowledgeable luthier for set-ups, repair work, and advice is essential.
Conclusion:In summary, a 1928 Martin Tenor Guitar is an excellent investment for musicians seeking a unique and versatile instrument with a rich history and rare appeal. While it comes with its challenges, such as a learning curve, cost, and availability, the pros including its full-bodied tone, extended range, superior craftsmanship, and collectible status far outweigh the cons.
If you are passionate about expanding your musical capabilities and embracing the heritage of the tenor guitar, the 1928 Martin Tenor Guitar could be an exceptional addition to your collection. However, make sure to consider the factors mentioned here carefully and take the necessary steps to learn its intricacies and provide it with the specialized care it requires.
Recommendation:My recommendation is that if you have a deep interest in the tenor guitar and possess the necessary skills (or the willingness to learn), a 1928 Martin Tenor Guitar could be an incredibly rewarding investment. However, if the higher cost, potential difficulty, and rare availability deter you, you may consider exploring other options, such as newer or less expensive tenor guitars or alternatives like a baritone ukelele, which might better suit your needs and budget. Ultimately, it's crucial to choose an instrument that makes musical sense and brings joy to your playing experience.
It has had some repaired damage to the body in several spots. The bottom is lifting slightly near strap button. Winning bidder to include 30 firs. Comes with soft case in good condition.
The finish appears to have been wet sanded as it is near bare wood at some points.