
( Brand: Martin ), ( Model: 0-28T ), ( Part Type: Acoustic Tenor Guitar ), ( Series: Tenor Guitar ), ( Dexterity: Right-handed ), ( String Configuration: 4 String ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States ), ( Exact Year: 1931 )
The Martin 0-28 Tenor Acoustic Guitar is a stunning piece of musical history, dating back to 1931. This instrument, crafted with meticulous attention to detail by the renowned Martin Guitar Company, offers a unique size and tonal Characteristics that set it apart from typical 0-size guitars.
The 0-28 Tenor model possesses a 24.9 inches (63.2 cm) scale length, which is longer than the standard 25.4 inches (64.5 cm) scale length of most 0-series Martins. This extended scale length facilitates the production of a deeper, richer, and mellifluous tone, particularly in the bass frequencies. The result is a sonic profile that resonates with a full-bodied sound, making it an excellent choice for players seeking a warm and robust tone.
Constructed primarily from select tonewoods, this vintage Martin guitar boasts a solid Sitka Spruce top that provides flexibility and responsiveness. The guitar's back and sides are fashioned from mahogany or Brazilian Rosewood, depending on the specific vintage, contributing to its exceptional tonal qualities and durability. The solid East Indian Rosewood fingerboard and bridge round out the tonal palette, offering a marvelous balance between articulation and warmth.
Other notable features include authentic pre-war style open-gear tuning machines, a vintage-style bridge, and a time-honored dovetail neck joint, all of which add to the instrument's historical significance and aesthetic appeal.
The Martin 1931 0-28 Tenor Acoustic Guitar is not only a beautifully crafted instrument but also a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and design innovation that has characterized Martin Guitars for generations. This unique tenor-sized acoustic guitar captivates players with its captivating tonality, exquisite playability, and timeless charm, making it an extraordinary addition to any music enthusiast's collection.
a. Vintage Appeal: This Martin guitar, being a 1931 tenor model, offers an exquisite vintage look and feel, making it an excellent addition to any guitar collection.
b. Superior Craftsmanship: Martin Guitars are renowned for their top-notch craftsmanship, and a 1931 tenor model is no exception. The guitar's construction is of high quality.
c. Rich Tone: The smaller tenor size of the guitar, combined with its age and construction, results in a unique, full-bodied sound that many musicians find desirable.
d. Investment Potential: Vintage Martin guitars, particularly the 1931 tenor model, can potentially increase in value over time, making it a wise investment for some collectors and musicians.
e. Versatile: Despite its vintage appeal, the 0-28T 1931 Tenor Martin Acoustic Guitar remains versatile, suitable for various genres, including folk, bluegrass, and country music.
2. Cons:a. High Price: Due to its age, rarity, and desirability, the 0-28T 1931 Tenor Martin Acoustic Guitar comes with a hefty price tag that may not be accessible for all guitar enthusiasts.
b. Potential Requirements for Repairs and Restoration: Being a vintage guitar, the 1931 tenor model may require significant restoration work or repairs to maintain its top condition, adding to its overall cost.
c. string tension: Due to its size and smaller scale length, the tenor guitar may require slightly lighter or specific strings and have a different tension than standard acoustic guitars, which might take some time and effort to adjust to for some players.
d. Less Common Size: The tenor size of this Martin guitar is less common in today's market, making it harder to find, for example, replacement parts or learn specific techniques tailored to the size.
Conclusion:The 0-28T 1931 Tenor Martin Acoustic Guitar presents both exciting advantages and potential drawbacks for prospective buyers. Its vintage appeal, exceptional craftsmanship, rich tone, and potential investment value make it an attractive option for collectors and musicians with a penchant for classic guitars. However, factors like its high price, potential need for repairs and restoration, string tension, and rarity must be carefully considered before making a purchasing decision. Ultimately, if you can afford the investment and cope with these factors, the 1931 tenor Martin acoustic guitar is likely to be a valuable, versatile, and rewarding addition to your musical arsenal. If you're on a budget or are unsure about the commitment to a vintage instrument with unique demands, you might prefer a modern guitar that offers more accessibility and affordability.
One was an old, well repaired crack on the back and the other was a crack on the top lower bout of treble side that had not been repaired so well, so my repair man removed the old glue and properly repaired it. The neck is straight and action is medium high. It came from a family estate. If it's a tenor guitar your after and you like vintage and tone, this just might be the one for you.
To start with these are very rare, only 71 total produced and only in the years of 1930 and the original hard case comes with it. Being in the vintage business since 1967, I have owned hundreds. My number is my repair guy didn't think it was quite to the point of needing one. I would be fine with the action but you might want to do a neck set if you like real low action.
Fingerboard shows no real wear divots and though the original bar frets do have wear, they are not in need of replacing yet, having life left in them. I will answer everything to the best of my ability, honestly, and fully disclose anything. All tuners, original Grover patent banjo tuners that work well, bridge, bridge saddle, bridge plate, pick guard, bar frets, and hard case are all original and unmolested. This guitar is a real treasure.
You can see his quote as he posted a picture of this guitar in the FBI group, vintage Martin guitars pre sadly, not too many remain in tact due to conversions and such. Good luck on your quest for that just right guitar. There is no evidence of the bridge having been off or the neck ever being reset on this guitar.
I have described as best I can but if there are any questions or you are unclear about anything, don't hesitate to ask. Serial number is it is a beautiful 1931 Martin 28t tenor guitar. There are 2 cracks that I and my repair man found. This is the 2nd one I have owned.
As you can tell, I am really infatuated with this little guitar but I am in the business of selling them. The obvious question is how does it sound. To quote my repair who is an excellent musician and has played many old tenors, sweet, sweet guitar, the best sounding tenor i've ever played, hands down.
The red spruce and Brazilian rosewood of this era is spectacular. This is truly one of the finest little guitars and absolutely the best tenor guitar I have ever owned. She is a bell ringer for sure and surprising volume to go with the tone.
Original finish is excellent all over the guitar though getting thin on a small area on back of neck. It is very original with only one bridge pin and the end strap button being non original as I can tell.