As an owner of 3 Martins, a 000-28, a D-28 and a D12-28 and VERY happy with them, I note that generally the most disparaging comments come from people who don't have them.

Not always the case, but more often than not.

I waited 40 odd years before I bought my first, and at 60, I think I now know what 'floats my boat'.

They are individual 'characters' and an absolute delight to play.

I didn't pay list price for any of them (the 12 string was flawless and second hand) and in terms of satisfaction for price - wonderful.

Why did I spend so much overall? Because I'm worth it (as the advert goes).

The best test perhaps, is to play a few makes with a blind fold on - then analyse the results.