NAZARETH, PA, January 22, 2025 – Martin Guitar is thrilled to unveil two all-new signature models at The 2025 NAMM Show—the D-28 Billy Strings and the D-X2E Billy Strings.
Joining other new releases from Martin, including the refreshed Standard Series, D-3 Millionth milestone acoustics, and more, these guitars are crafted to capture the distinctive sound, style, and electrifying energy of GRAMMY®-winning artist Billy Strings. They represent a collaboration that combines Martin’s unparalleled craftsmanship with the innovative artistry of a musician who transcends genre while honoring bluegrass traditions.
“If you think of just the word ‘guitar,’ I think of a Martin D-28,” says Billy. “Some people might think of a Stratocaster or a Les Paul, but to me, it’s just so American—it’s like baseball or something.
“They all have this overall thing that is ‘the Martin sound,’ and that is the sound that has
captivated bluegrass guitarists for as long as it’s been around—and every other genre as well. But specifically, these Dreadnought guitars for bluegrass music—you gotta have one.”
These instruments and more will be on display at The 2025 NAMM Show in Anaheim,
California, through Saturday, January 25.
D-28 BILLY STRINGS
Inspired by Billy’s prized 1940 D-28, the Martin D-28 Billy Strings brings a modern twist to a classic pre-war design, incorporating features tailored to Billy’s electrifying playing style.
This signature Dreadnought showcases a unique 25″ scale length, reducing string tension for fast, intricate playing and expressive bends—perfectly suited for Billy’s rapid-fire licks. With a custom nut width that’s slightly wider than his pre-war Martin and a modified low oval satin neck, it offers enhanced comfort and speed, ideal for players who crave agility up and down the neck.
The solid East Indian rosewood back and sides and spruce top deliver a full, resonant tone with rich bass, while the bold herringbone trim, antique toner, and antique white binding add vintage flair. Nickel enclosed gear tuners, exclusive to Martin, and an ebony fingerboard with abalone diamond and square inlay round out the guitar’s looks and performance.
It’s an ideal balance of traditional craftsmanship and modern playability, much like Billy’s genre-defying style. Both signature models feature a custom paper label with his pre-printed signature and graphic. (MSRP $3,799).
D-X2E BILLY STRINGS
The Martin D-X2E Billy Strings takes inspiration from Billy’s love for his pre-war D-28 while offering a more accessible option for fans and players alike.
It features the same unique 25″ scale length and custom nut width as its high-end counterpart, making it easier to play fast, intricate lines while maintaining a comfortable feel. Built with durable Brazilian rosewood-patterned HPL back and sides and a solid spruce top, this Dreadnought delivers a powerful, booming tone that’s perfect for both traditional and modern acoustic styles.
Nickel open gear tuners, an ebony fingerboard with faux abalone inlay, and a style 28 rosette add a classic touch, while Martin E1 electronics and a built-in tuner ensure it’s ready for the stage. Complete with a hemp softshell case, the D-X2E Billy Strings is a rugged, reliable instrument that reflects his passion for pushing boundaries and blending genres. (MSRP $899)
“There’s so many kids out there that really want to learn how to pick, and they need access to a good instrument that they don’t have to take out a loan for,” says Billy. “That was important to me—to make sure that there was a guitar that people could get their hands on.
“To have a Martin that you can actually acquire and learn how to pick on… I mean, that’s like the first one I got, and it’s great. It’s a fully badass guitar.”
For more information about these and other Martin releases, visit martinguitar.com.