Martin D12-28

Originally introduced in 1973, the Martin D12-28 is a 12-string guitar based on the classic body design of the D-28. It features a sitka spruce top braced with a 5/16” standard “X” pattern, east Indian rosewood back/sides, and select hardwood (usually mahogany) neck. Ebony is used for the bridge and fingerboard and bone is used for the nut/saddle. Just like the D-28, The D12-28 puts solid construction and choice materials before flashy inlays and binding. For instance, even today, only a white/black Boltaron strip (the same plastic used in airplane overhead compartments) is used for the body/back binding and inlay. However, function determines where the D12-28 differs from the D-28. In order to help reduce the added pull from the extra strings, Martin uses a 24.9” scale length and recommends extra-light gauge strings. The fingerboard width at the nut and 12th fret are also increased. Players like David Gilmore (Pink Floyd), Alex Lifeson (Rush), and Dave Matthews have used the D12-28.