Breedlove Vs Martin [Difference & Which is Better Performing]
Regarding acoustic and electric guitars, two of the most renowned brands are Breedlove and Martin. There are distinct styles & design elements in both brands. Although these brands have many similarities, they also possess some significant differences that may make one more suitable for a certain type of playing than the other.
Here is a comparison of Breedlove and Martin guitars to see which is the right match for a particular playing style or performer. We’ll look for the tone, playability, build quality, and price points of these two brands, as well as the pros and cons of each. If you’re a beginner or a professional musician, understanding the differences between these two iconic brands can help you find the right guitar for your needs.
# Table of Contents =>
Comparison Table:
Features – | Breedlove | Martin |
Top Material: | Solid Spruce | Solid Sitka Spruce |
Body Shape: | Concert | Dreadnought |
Back and sides: | Rosewood | Mahogany |
Neck Material: | Sapele | Hardwood |
String Spacing: | 2.14″ | 2.09″ |
Nut Width: | 1.69 inches | 1.75 inches |
Finish: | Satin | Gloss |
Price: | $399 | $499 |
Difference Between Breedlove Vs Martin:
1) Body design –
When selecting a guitar, it is essential to consider the type of sound desired before deciding. Breedlove guitars have a curved body structure intended to give a fuller sound. Martin guitars have a classic, rectangular shape combined with a special bracing system designed for a more precise and articulate sound.
2) Quality of sound –
Due to the cedar-top construction and mahogany neck, Breedlove guitars have a warm and rounded sound. A Martin guitar’s sound is bright and balanced, thanks to the combination of spruce and rosewood. Rosewood adds a rich, full sound and gives the instrument a light, airy quality.
Consequently, both of these guitars can produce a vast range of tones.
3) Neck material and shape –
Breedlove guitars are made with a bolt-on neck, an industry standard for most electric guitars but not acoustic guitars. In general, this type of neck is more durable than glued-on necks and is easy to adjust. Martin guitars feature a dovetail neck joint, a traditional method of attaching the neck to the body. The main disadvantage of this design is that it requires a higher level of skill for repairs if necessary.
4) Tonewoods –
Breedlove is known for its use of Pacific Northwest tonewoods like Myrtlewood and is considered to have a brighter, punchy tone than Martin guitars. Martin is known for using East Indian Rosewood & Mahogany, which results in a warmer, mellow tone. As a result, Breedlove guitars are generally better for Flatpicking and strumming, while Martin guitars are better for fingerstyle and classical playing.
Furthermore, both brands use different body shapes, which can also affect the guitar’s tone. It is up to the player to decide which tonewoods & body style is better suited for their playing style.
5) Strings –
Breedlove guitars come with Elixir phosphor bronze strings, which provide a warm, round tone. Breedlove strings also offer excellent intonation and tuning stability. Martin guitars are strung with Martin’s own Marquis strings. These strings provide a bright, articulate sound – perfect for blues and fingerstyle playing.
They’re also known for their durability and tuning stability. Ultimately, the choice between Breedlove and Martin strings will come down to personal preference.
6) Quality of craftsmanship –
Breedlove and Martin’s guitars are renowned for their superior craftsmanship and use of high-grade materials. Breedlove guitars feature hand-shaped necks & polished frets for a superior finish, while Martin guitars use traditional techniques and premium materials for a flawless construction.
Regardless of your choice, you can be confident that the quality of craftsmanship is impeccable.
7) Playability –
The neck and body shape of Breedlove guitars make them very comfortable to play with. Breedlove guitars also feature a wider fretboard, which makes playing chords & shifting from one position to another easier. Martin guitars have a narrower fretboard, which gives them a tighter, more focused sound.
Both guitars have excellent playability, so it comes down to personal preference.
8) Durability –
Breedlove and Martin’s guitars are both renowned for their exceptional quality and durability. Martin stands out as the more reliable option when seeking a guitar designed for longevity. This company has forged a legacy for crafting guitars with robust construction and premium materials for over a century.
Martin proudly uses higher-grade woods, superior finishes, and reinforced bracing to ensure their instruments can handle the rigors of everyday use. Moreover, they provide a lifetime warranty, guaranteeing your guitar will remain a treasured part of your music collection for years to come.
9) Price range –
The Breedlove guitars are in the more affordable price range, making them ideal for beginners or those with a tighter budget. Martin guitars are usually quite pricier due to their superior craftsmanship & reputation. Martin offers guitars in different price ranges, so you may find one that meets your needs.
The best-performing guitar for you will depend on your individual preferences, budget, and playing style.
So, Which should I choose?
That all depends on your playing style and your musical preferences. Breedlove guitars are known for their warm, balanced tone, while Martin guitars have a bright and punchy sound. Martin guitars have a classic neck shape, while Breedlove guitars have a comfortable neck profile.
Breedlove guitars are a bit more expensive than Martin guitars, but they are usually well worth the extra cost. The choice comes down to your individual playing style & musical preferences.
When deciding between Breedlove Vs Martin guitars, it is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Breedlove guitars boast modern design and sound quality, while Martin guitars have superior build quality and tone. The best guitar for any musician is the one that best fits their playing style & needs.
FAQs –
Question 1: Are Breedlove guitars good?
Answer: There is a reputation for excellence in craftsmanship and sound quality when it comes to Breedlove Guitars. Many professional musicians have praised the playability, tone & responsiveness of Breedlove guitars.
Question 2: Is Taylor’s guitar better than Martin’s?
Answer: It depends on personal preference and the type of music you plan to play. Both Taylor and Martin guitars are great options, which comes down to taste.
Question 3: Is Breedlove made by Taylor?
Answer: No, Breedlove is not made by Taylor. Breedlove is an independent musical instrument and guitar manufacturer based in Bend, Oregon.
Question 4: Is Martin the best guitar brand?
Answer: It depends on the individual’s preferences and needs. Different guitar brands have different features, materials, and sound qualities. So, it is best to try out a few different brands to determine which one is best for you.
Last Updated on February 20, 2023 by Perry Garner