When discussing 12-string guitars, comparisons between Martin and Guild are inevitable, yet pinpointing similarities can be challenging. Martin 12-string guitars present a varied landscape, encompassing 12-fret dreadnoughts and 14-fret dreadnoughts—both with a shorter 24.9″ scale length—alongside 14-fret jumbo models (Martin’s jumbo size) boasting a longer 25.4″ scale. In contrast, Guild 12-strings are recognized for their presence in at least three distinct jumbo body sizes and the 14-fret dreadnought configuration, generally featuring a 25.4″ scale length. Both brands frequently utilize mahogany and rosewood in their construction, although Martin has experimented with maple in some J-sized 12-strings, and Guild has extensively used maple, particularly in their jumbo 12-string models. Amidst these variations, a few consistent traits emerge, particularly when considering older Martin dreadnought 12-strings, which traditionally feature a short scale in both 12 and 14-fret body styles. This short scale characteristic persists in modern Martin dovetail dread 12-string guitars.
Guild 12-strings have earned a reputation for their powerful volume, often rendering pickups unnecessary. Another key distinction lies in bridge pin configuration: Guild anchors the octave string in each pair at the back, while Martin positions them at the front. This results in a sharper string break angle for the main strings on a Guild and for the octave strings on a Martin.
It’s hypothesized that Guild 12-string guitars derive their powerful sound and volume from their jumbo bodies (a common association with Guild 12-strings), longer scale length, and the steeper string break angle of the main strings. Despite a preference for the tonal balance of a 12-fret Martin dreadnought, the design of Martin’s 12-fret dreadnought might be somewhat limited in volume due to its shorter scale length and the sharper string break angle affecting the octave strings. The shorter scale on Martin 12 String Guitars may have been intended to ease neck tension. The placement of octave strings at the front bridge pin row remains less clear in its design intention. Guild 12-strings often incorporate adjustable dual truss rods, an effective measure against the considerable tension exerted by twelve strings and a longer scale. However, improperly adjusted truss rods in Guild guitars can sometimes lead to neck issues, including unusual shapes or even cracks, particularly in models with laminated necks.
In conclusion, while both Martin and Guild offer compelling 12-string guitars, their design philosophies lead to distinct tonal and volume profiles. Martin 12 string guitars, particularly the dreadnought models, often prioritize tonal balance and a comfortable playing experience with their shorter scale, while Guild 12-strings are generally favored for their louder, more powerful sound, often attributed to their jumbo bodies and longer scale lengths. The choice between a Martin 12 string guitar and a Guild ultimately depends on a player’s individual preferences and playing needs.
