Chirpy_72

Originally posted by lalatingstrings aint they got a lifetime warrenty?why they gotta be so shady with it?????? The warranty is only good for the original owner, it's non-transferable to subsequent owners. The only Martin that had a transferable warranty was the D76

we may have .... I'm forgetfull too.

The main characteristics are the eveness of the grain, silking, tightness of grain. Bear-claw is lower down on the checklist. My D41 has a little bit o' bear-claw. I happen to prefer bear-claw. Have you seen the Andy Griffith D-18? Those mothers have so much bear-claw they look like "Quilted Spruce" ! At one point in time, bear-claw was not a desired characteristic. I think it's lovely.

I don't doubt that a by-product of having a higher quality graded top ( cosmetically ) is in general a better sounding top .... I've got a D-41 and a OM28V that will attest to that !

Martin's grading system pertains more to the cosmetics of the cut of wood more than anything else ( straighter grain, amt of silking, bearclaw etc )

Originally posted by LMAO Part of my happy family where's the soundholes ?

Originally posted by koaguitarman See my signature for guitars. I bet you live in a Koa house, with koa floors and walnut cabinets .... You got something against spruce ? Gotta have balance in life man !!! Just kidding .... BEAUTIFUL guitars ..... I really like that National

Originally posted by Legend-guitar Chirpy you need to be taking pictures for me! Cool shot's Robbie Well I only live down the road in Chandler ... so if you ever want anything for your website just let me know - Chad

Here's my Martin D41: http://www.pbase.com/image/18087789 Here's the famed AER Alpha acoustic amp: http://www.pbase.com/image/18131206 Here's my Martin and Tacoma C1C Chief + my roomate's Guild: http://www.pbase.com/image/18992391