2024 Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe Acoustic Guitar – Used

Yes, this Martin D-42 Modern Deluxe was made in 2024 and yes, it is used, but barely. The previous owner discovered he couldn’t live without the extra bling, so he upgraded to a D-45 Modern Deluxe. The original hardshell case is in equally clean condition.

The D-42 entered the Martin catalog as a standard model in 1996, which is always a surprise to us because the 42 style dates back to the 1870s and they have been making dreadnoughts since the early 1930s. Still, however long it took for this beauty to make it into the line, we’re happy it finally made it. From the front, this guitar has all the sparkle of Martin’s top-of-the-line D-45, with abalone trim around the top, soundhole and fretboard extension.

The Modern Deluxe version ups the cosmetic ante over the D-42 Standard. It has one of our favorite inlay patterns, the Style 45 Snowflake, in the fretboard and the Style 45 Torch Inlay in the headstock overlay. The binding is maple and the bridge is inlaid with snowflakes. The back is more austere and apart from the fancy multi-color backstrip, it looks pretty much like a D-28, but made with premium Indian rosewood.

The D-42 Modern Deluxe combines Martin’s legacy of old world craftsmanship with some impressive contemporary features. This guitar has scalloped, forward-shifted x-bracing and the body is constructed using natural protein glue, both features Martin used during the 1930s, the era when the modern flattop guitar was created and refined. The modern features include a carbon fiber bridge-plate, which is light and stiff and helps increase volume and sustain; a Vintage Tone System (VTS) spruce top; long wearing EVO frets; and an new asymmetrical neck shape that gives you maximum comfort up and down the fingerboard.