What's Different Between the Martin D-41 and D-42?
Aside from subtle differences, primarily fretboard inlays, these guitars are very similar.
There are Martin acoustic enthusiasts who could split some hairs on these two guitars. But our official stance is that they are very similar and that the physical and tone differences between them, the newer year models, are essentially indistinguishable.
One of the only noticeable differences between the D-41 and D-42 is the fretboard inlays.
Otherwise, you're looking at almost identical specs and a very similar sound. During our research we noted several folks claiming the D-42 has a higher grade of tonewood. While this isn't explicitly stated, that would account for at least some of the price difference. Other have said that the D-42 gives you a little more bass and fullness, with a slightly warmer tone.
But dang, it's really hard for to tell.
In the past, the two acoustics have used different bracing systems. But in current models, they use the same scalloped forward-shifted x-bracing.
This makes it really hard to tell a difference between the updated models.
Unless you're seeing something I'm not, I'd say take the money and run with the Martin D-41.
Martin D-41 VS D-42 Comparison Table
You can compare the two acoustics via the comparison table below. But, be warned, there isn't a lot of difference aside from the price.
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Martin | Name | Rate | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Martin D-41 | n/a | |
 | Martin D-42 | n/a |
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Audio of Both Guitars
I would argue there's no discernable difference in tone between these two instruments. Again, some have argued that the 42 is a little warmer and/or darker, but I don't hear that.
Certainly there are peripheral factors like the type of strings you use and the microphone used to record, but their natural tone is almost identical.
Thorough Spec Sheet
I'm not sure this table is really even necessary, but we'll stick with the template. There is one difference, and it's the fretboard inlays.
 | 41 | 42 |
|---|---|---|
Body shape | Dreadnought | Dreadnought |
Color | Natural, aging toner | Natural, aging toner |
Finish | Gloss | Gloss |
Top wood | Solid Spruce | Solid Spruce |
Back/sides | Solid East Indian Rosewood | Solid East Indian Rosewood |
Body bracing | Scalloped forward-shifted x-bracing | Scalloped forward-shifted x-bracing |
Binding | Antique white | Antique white |
Neck wood | Mahogany | Mahogany |
Neck shape | Modified Low Oval, High Performance Taper | Modified Low Oval, High Performance Taper |
Radius | 16" | 16" |
Fret inlays | Abalone reduced hexagon | Abalone style 45 snowflake |
Number of frets | 20 frets | 20 frets |
Scale length | 25.4" | 25.4" |
Nut width | 1.75" | 1.75" |
Tuning machines | Gold open gear | Gold open gear |
Price Comparison
This is a price comparison section that includes both acoustics from the most popular retailers. The D-41 seems a lot more common than the D-42. Note that it's updated in real time.
Price updated Fri, September 29th, 2023.
Multiple Vendors
Amazon Only
What accounts for the price difference?
While the pricing varies, the typical difference between the two is around $1000 or more in some cases.
This seems really strange to me, because even an alleged higher grade tonewood in the D-42 (which I haven't been able to verify) shouldn't run the cost up that high. And while there used to be a different bracing system in older versions of the D-41, both now use the same system.
I have to assume there are concrete reasons for the pricing difference, but Martin has not made that information readily available.
If someone has insight on that, drop it in the comments section below.
Conclusion and Recommendation
This is an easy call for me.
Go with the D-41.
It's already top-tier in terms of quality, and there's almost no concrete reason to make the jump to the D-42 for $1000. When you're at this price point and quality is this high, it's fine to take the more economical option, especially without a significant difference in feel or tone.
If you have questions or insight into this comparison, please share in the comments.
Unless I'm missing something, this is an odd one.
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