In the realm of acoustic guitars, one name stands above the rest: Martin. For over 180 years, Martin Guitars has been crafting instruments of unparalleled quality and tone. And for left-handed guitarists, Martin offers a wide range of left handed acoustic guitars that are sure to meet the needs of any player.
Editor’s Note:Left-handed acoustic guitars are often difficult to find, but Martin offers a wide variety of models to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’re sure to find the perfect left-handed acoustic guitar for your needs.
We’ve done the research and dug through the information to put together this left handed acoustic guitar guide to help you make the right decision. We’ll cover the key differences between left and right-handed guitars, as well as the pros and cons of each. We’ll also provide our top picks for the best left handed acoustic guitars on the market.
| Left-Handed Guitars | Right-Handed Guitars | |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | The body is flipped horizontally, so the bass strings are on the left and the treble strings are on the right. | The body is not flipped, so the bass strings are on the right and the treble strings are on the left. |
| Neck | The neck is reversed, so the nut is on the right side and the bridge is on the left side. | The neck is not reversed, so the nut is on the left side and the bridge is on the right side. |
| Stringing | The strings are strung in reverse order, so the lowest string is on the bottom and the highest string is on the top. | The strings are strung in standard order, so the lowest string is on the top and the highest string is on the bottom. |
Now that you know the key differences between left and right-handed guitars, you can start shopping for the perfect instrument. Here are our top picks for the best left handed acoustic guitars on the market:
- Martin D-28 Standard Left-Handed
- Martin HD-28V Left-Handed
- Martin 000-15M Left-Handed
- Martin LX1 Little Martin Left-Handed
- Martin SC-13E Left-Handed
1. Body shape
The body shape of a left handed acoustic guitar is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a guitar. The body shape will affect the sound, playability, and comfort of the guitar. Left handed acoustic guitars have a body that is flipped horizontally, so the bass strings are on the left and the treble strings are on the right. This is the opposite of right-handed guitars, which have the bass strings on the right and the treble strings on the left.
- Comfort: The body shape of a left handed acoustic guitar is more comfortable for left-handed players. This is because the body is designed to be played with the left hand, so the contours of the body fit the left hand more naturally.
- Playability: The body shape of a left handed acoustic guitar also affects the playability of the guitar. The flipped body makes it easier for left-handed players to reach the frets and strum the strings.
- Sound: The body shape of a left handed acoustic guitar can also affect the sound of the guitar. The flipped body can give the guitar a slightly different sound than a right-handed guitar.
- Martin Guitars: Martin Guitars is one of the leading manufacturers of left handed acoustic guitars. Martin offers a wide variety of left handed acoustic guitars, so you can find the perfect guitar for your needs.
If you are a left-handed guitarist, it is important to choose a guitar that is designed for left-handed players. A left handed acoustic guitar will be more comfortable to play, easier to play, and will sound better than a right-handed guitar. Martin Guitars offers a wide variety of left handed acoustic guitars, so you can find the perfect guitar for your needs.
2. Neck
The neck of a left handed acoustic guitar is reversed, so the nut is on the right side and the bridge is on the left side. This is the opposite of a right handed guitar, which has the nut on the left side and the bridge on the right side. The reversed neck on a left handed guitar is important because it allows the left hand to fret the strings more easily. This is because the left hand is naturally more dexterous than the right hand, so it can more easily handle the of fretting the strings.
Martin Guitars is one of the leading manufacturers of left handed acoustic guitars. Martin offers a wide variety of left handed acoustic guitars, so you can find the perfect guitar for your needs. Martin’s left handed acoustic guitars are made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, so you can be sure that you are getting a guitar that will last for many years.
If you are a left handed guitarist, it is important to choose a guitar that is designed for left-handed players. A left handed acoustic guitar will be more comfortable to play, easier to play, and will sound better than a right-handed guitar. Martin Guitars offers a wide variety of left handed acoustic guitars, so you can find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between left handed and right handed acoustic guitars:
| Feature | Left Handed Acoustic Guitar | Right Handed Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | The body is flipped horizontally, so the bass strings are on the left and the treble strings are on the right. | The body is not flipped, so the bass strings are on the right and the treble strings are on the left. |
| Neck | The neck is reversed, so the nut is on the right side and the bridge is on the left side. | The neck is not reversed, so the nut is on the left side and the bridge is on the right side. |
| Stringing | The strings are strung in reverse order, so the lowest string is on the bottom and the highest string is on the top. | The strings are strung in standard order, so the lowest string is on the top and the highest string is on the bottom. |
3. Stringing
The stringing of a left handed acoustic guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar. The stringing of a guitar refers to the order in which the strings are strung on the guitar. On a left handed acoustic guitar, the strings are strung in reverse order, so the lowest string is on the bottom and the highest string is on
the top. This is the opposite of a right handed guitar, which has the lowest string on the top and the highest string on the bottom.
There are two main reasons why the strings on a left handed acoustic guitar are strung in reverse order.
- The first reason is to make it easier for left-handed players to fret the strings. When a left-handed player frets a string on a right handed guitar, the left hand has to reach across the strings to fret the string. This can be difficult and uncomfortable for left-handed players.
- The second reason is to make it easier for left-handed players to strum the strings. When a left-handed player strums a right handed guitar, the right hand has to reach across the strings to strum the strings. This can also be difficult and uncomfortable for left-handed players.
The stringing of a left handed acoustic guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar. The stringing of a guitar can affect the playability, comfort, and sound of the guitar. If you are a left-handed guitarist, it is important to choose a guitar that is strung in reverse order.
Martin Guitars is one of the leading manufacturers of left handed acoustic guitars. Martin offers a wide variety of left handed acoustic guitars, so you can find the perfect guitar for your needs. Martin’s left handed acoustic guitars are made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, so you can be sure that you are getting a guitar that will last for many years.
If you are a left handed guitarist, I encourage you to consider playing a left handed acoustic guitar. Left handed acoustic guitars are more comfortable to play, easier to play, and sound better than right-handed guitars. Martin Guitars offers a wide variety of left handed acoustic guitars, so you can find the perfect guitar for your needs.
| String | Position on Left Handed Guitar | Position on Right Handed Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest String | Bottom | Top |
| Highest String | Top | Bottom |
4. Playing style
The playing style of left handed acoustic guitars is similar to that of right-handed guitars, with the main difference being that the strumming and picking patterns are reversed. This is because the strings are strung in reverse order on a left handed guitar, so the lowest string is on the bottom and the highest string is on the top. This means that the left hand has to fret the strings in a different way than on a right handed guitar, and the right hand has to strum and pick the strings in a different way.
- Strumming: When strumming a left handed acoustic guitar, the right hand moves from the bottom strings to the top strings, rather than from the top strings to the bottom strings. This can take some practice to get used to, but it is not difficult to learn.
- Picking: When picking a left handed acoustic guitar, the right hand moves from the highest string to the lowest string, rather than from the lowest string to the highest string. This can also take some practice to get used to, but it is not difficult to learn.
- Fingering: The fingering of left handed acoustic guitars is the same as that of right handed guitars. This means that the left hand frets the strings in the same way on both types of guitars.
- Chords: The chords for left handed acoustic guitars are the same as the chords for right handed guitars. This means that you can learn to play chords on a left handed guitar using the same resources that you would use to learn to play chords on a right handed guitar.
Overall, the playing style of left handed acoustic guitars is very similar to that of right-handed guitars. The main difference is that the strumming and picking patterns are reversed. This can take some practice to get used to, but it is not difficult to learn.
5. Advantages
Left-handed acoustic guitars are specifically designed for left-handed players, which provides a number of advantages over right-handed guitars. One of the most significant advantages is improved comfort and playability. The body of a left-handed acoustic guitar is flipped horizontally, so the bass strings are on the left and the treble strings are on the right. This makes it more comfortable for left-handed players to fret the strings with their left hand and strum the strings with their right hand.
For example, Martin Guitars, known for their high-quality acoustic guitars, offers a wide range of left-handed acoustic guitars designed to meet the needs of left-handed players. These guitars feature a flipped body, reversed neck, and reverse stringing, providing left-handed players with the same comfort and playability as right-handed players experience on right-handed guitars.
The improved comfort and playability of left-handed acoustic guitars can make a significant difference for left-handed players. It can make learning to play guitar easier and more enjoyable, and it can help left-handed players reach their full potential as guitarists.
In summary, left-handed acoustic guitars offer a number of advantages over right-handed guitars for left-handed players, including improved comfort and playability. These advantages can make a significant difference for left-handed players, helping them to learn to play guitar more easily and reach their full potential as guitarists.
| Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Improved comfort | Makes it easier to fret and strum the strings |
| Enhanced playability | Allows left-handed players to reach their full potential as guitarists |
6. Reduced strain on the left hand
Left-handed acoustic guitars are specifically designed to reduce strain on the left hand, which is particularly beneficial for left-handed players. Unlike right-handed guitars, which require left-handed players to contort their left hand to fret the strings, left-handed guitars allow for a more natural and relaxed left-hand position.
- Ergonomic Design: Left-handed acoustic guitars are designed with an ergonomic body and neck shape that conforms to the natural contours of the left hand. This reduces tension and strain on the left-hand muscles, making it more comfortable to play for extended periods.
- Reversed Stringing: The strings on a left-handed acoustic guitar are strung in reverse order, with the thickest strings on the bottom and the thinnest strings on the top. This reversed stringing allows left-handed players to use their stronger right hand for fretting the thicker strings, which require more force, while the weaker left hand can handle the thinner strings.
- Shorter Scale Length: Some left-handed acoustic guitars feature a shorter scale length than right-handed guitars, which means the distance between the nut and
the bridge is shorter. A shorter scale length reduces the reach required for the left hand to fret the strings, making it easier and less strenuous to play. - Cutaway Body: Many left-handed acoustic guitars have a cutaway body, which allows easier access to the higher frets. This reduces the need for the left hand to stretch or contort to reach the higher frets, further reducing strain.
In summary, the combination of ergonomic design, reversed stringing, shorter scale length, and cutaway body in left-handed acoustic guitars works together to reduce strain on the left hand, making it more comfortable and enjoyable for left-handed players to play.
7. More natural strumming and picking patterns
For left-handed guitarists, playing a left-handed acoustic guitar from Martin offers the advantage of more natural strumming and picking patterns. Unlike right-handed guitars, which force left-handed players to adapt to a reversed string arrangement, left-handed guitars allow for a more intuitive and comfortable playing experience.
The natural flow of strumming and picking motions is crucial for developing proficiency and expressing musical ideas effectively. With a left-handed acoustic guitar, the right hand can naturally fall into a comfortable strumming position, while the left hand can fret and pick the strings without any awkward contortions. This leads to greater ease of playing, reduced tension, and improved overall technique.
Martin’s left-handed acoustic guitars are meticulously crafted to provide left-handed players with an exceptional playing experience. The body shape, neck design, and string arrangement are all optimized for left-handed players, ensuring that strumming and picking patterns feel natural and effortless.
Furthermore, the use of high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship in Martin’s left-handed acoustic guitars contributes to their exceptional tone and playability. The rich, resonant sound produced by these guitars inspires and supports players, allowing them to fully express their musical creativity.
In summary, the combination of natural strumming and picking patterns, coupled with Martin’s renowned craftsmanship and tone, makes left-handed acoustic guitars from Martin an ideal choice for left-handed players seeking an exceptional playing experience.
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Comfort and ease of playing | Left-handed guitars allow for a more natural hand position, reducing tension and strain. |
| Improved technique | Natural strumming and picking patterns promote proper form and technique, leading to greater proficiency. |
| Enhanced musical expression | The intuitive flow of Bewegungen allows players to focus on musical expression rather than overcoming unnatural hand positions. |
8. Disadvantages
While left handed acoustic guitars offer many advantages, there are also a few disadvantages to consider:
- Limited selection of guitars: One of the biggest disadvantages of playing a left handed acoustic guitar is the limited selection of guitars available. Many guitar manufacturers do not produce left handed models, and those that do often have a much smaller selection than right handed guitars. This can make it difficult to find a left handed guitar that meets your specific needs and preferences.
- Higher cost: Left handed acoustic guitars are often more expensive than right handed guitars. This is due to the lower production volume of left handed guitars, which makes them more costly to produce.
- Difficulty finding accessories: It can also be more difficult to find accessories for left handed acoustic guitars, such as cases, straps, and picks. This is because most guitar accessories are designed for right handed guitars, and left handed accessories are not as widely available.
Despite these disadvantages, left handed acoustic guitars offer many advantages for left handed players. If you are a left handed guitarist, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of playing a left handed guitar before making a decision.
9. Higher cost
Left handed acoustic guitars from Martin are often more expensive than right handed guitars. This is due to the lower production volume of left handed guitars, which makes them more costly to produce. The limited availability of left handed guitars also contributes to their higher cost, as manufacturers can charge a premium for these specialized instruments.
The higher cost of left handed acoustic guitars can be a significant consideration for guitarists on a budget. However, it is important to remember that a quality guitar is an investment that can last for many years. Martin guitars are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and tone, and their left handed models are no exception. If you are a left handed guitarist looking for a high-quality guitar that will provide you with years of enjoyment, a Martin left handed acoustic guitar is worth the investment.
There are a few ways to save money on a left handed Martin acoustic guitar. One option is to buy a used guitar. Used guitars can be found at a variety of retailers, including online marketplaces and music stores. Another option is to buy a lower-end model. Martin offers a range of left handed acoustic guitars at different price points, so you can find one that fits your budget.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a left handed Martin acoustic guitar is a personal one. If you are a serious guitarist who is looking for a high-quality instrument, a Martin guitar is a great choice. However, if you are on a budget, there are other options available.
| Guitar Type | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Left Handed Acoustic Guitar | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Right Handed Acoustic Guitar | $1,000 – $2,500 |
10. Difficulty finding left-handed accessories
The difficulty in finding left-handed accessories is a significant challenge for left-handed guitarists, particularly those who own left-handed acoustic guitars from Martin. Accessories such as cases, straps, and picks are essential for protecting and maintaining the guitar, but they can be challenging to find in left-handed versions.
This scarcity is primarily due to the lower production volume of left-handed guitars compared to right-handed guitars. As a result, manufacturers often prioritize producing accessories for the larger right-handed marke
t, leaving left-handed guitarists with limited options.
The lack of left-handed accessories can have practical implications for guitarists. For instance, finding a properly fitted case for a left-handed Martin acoustic guitar can be a challenge, as many cases are designed specifically for right-handed guitars. This can increase the risk of damage to the guitar during transportation or storage.
To address this challenge, some left-handed guitarists resort to using right-handed accessories, which may not fit or function optimally. Others may have to order custom-made accessories, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
Fortunately, there are a growing number of companies that cater specifically to left-handed guitarists, offering a wider range of accessories. Online retailers such as Southpaw Guitars and Lefty’s Guitar Shop specialize in left-handed guitars and accessories, making it easier for left-handed guitarists to find the gear they need.
In conclusion, the difficulty in finding left-handed accessories is an ongoing challenge for left-handed guitarists, including those who own left-handed acoustic guitars from Martin. However, with the increasing availability of left-handed accessories from specialized retailers, left-handed guitarists now have more options to keep their instruments protected and well-maintained.
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Limited availability of left-handed accessories | Specialized retailers offering left-handed accessories |
| Improper fit of right-handed accessories | Custom-made or left-handed accessories |
| Increased risk of damage without proper accessories | Properly fitted cases and straps |
11. Brands
When it comes to left handed acoustic guitars, Martin stands out as a leading brand, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and rich musical heritage. Martin’s commitment to left-handed guitarists is evident in its extensive range of left handed models, catering to the unique needs of left-handed players.
- Quality and Craftsmanship: Martin guitars are known for their unmatched quality and exquisite craftsmanship. Each left handed acoustic guitar from Martin undergoes a rigorous inspection process to ensure the highest standards of construction and playability.
- Tonal Excellence: Martin guitars are celebrated for their rich, resonant sound. The solid wood construction and innovative bracing patterns employed by Martin result in guitars with exceptional tonal qualities that inspire and captivate musicians.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: Martin’s left handed acoustic guitars are meticulously designed to provide optimal comfort and playability. The body shape, neck profile, and string spacing are optimized for left-handed players, reducing strain and enhancing overall playing experience.
- Wide Selection: Martin offers a wide selection of left handed acoustic guitars, ranging from budget-friendly models to professional-grade instruments. This allows left-handed guitarists to find the perfect guitar that suits their playing style, musical preferences, and budget.
By choosing a left handed acoustic guitar from Martin, players can be assured of an instrument that combines exceptional quality, tonal excellence, and ergonomic design. Martin’s commitment to left-handed guitarists is a testament to their dedication to providing all musicians with the opportunity to experience the joy of playing a truly outstanding guitar.
FAQs on Left Handed Acoustic Guitars by Martin
Many guitar enthusiasts have questions regarding left handed acoustic guitars, particularly those manufactured by the renowned brand Martin. This FAQ section addresses some common concerns and provides informative answers.
Question 1: Are left handed acoustic guitars different from right handed models?
Answer: Yes, left handed acoustic guitars are specifically designed for left-handed players. They feature a reversed body shape, where the bass strings are on the left and the treble strings are on the right. Additionally, the neck is reversed, with the nut on the right side and the bridge on the left side. The strings are also strung in reverse order.
Question 2: Why should I choose a left handed Martin guitar?
Answer: Left handed Martin guitars offer several advantages for left-handed players. They provide improved comfort and playability, as the body shape and neck design are optimized for left-handed players. Additionally, they reduce strain on the left hand and allow for more natural strumming and picking patterns.
Question 3: Are left handed Martin guitars difficult to find?
Answer: While left handed guitars may have a smaller selection compared to right handed models, Martin offers a wide range of left handed acoustic guitars. This includes various body styles, tonewoods, and price ranges, making it easier for left-handed players to find the perfect guitar for their needs.
Question 4: Are left handed Martin guitars more expensive than right handed models?
Answer: Left handed Martin guitars may have a slightly higher price point compared to right handed models due to lower production volume. However, Martin’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship ensures that all their guitars, regardless of handedness, offer exceptional value and playability.
Question 5: Can I use regular guitar accessories with a left handed Martin guitar?
Answer: Some regular guitar accessories may not be suitable for left handed Martin guitars. This includes cases, straps, and picks that are specifically designed for right-handed guitars. It is recommended to use accessories designed for left handed guitars to ensure proper fit and functionality.
Question 6: Where can I learn more about left handed Martin guitars?
Answer: Martin’s official website and authorized dealers are excellent resources for learning more about their left handed acoustic guitars. These sources provide detailed information on specifications, models, and availability.
In summary, left handed Martin acoustic guitars offer exceptional quality, playability, and comfort for left-handed players. While there may be some differences in availability and accessories compared to right handed models, Martin’s commitment to left-handed guitarists ensures a wide selection and a rewarding playing experience.
Transitioning to the next article section…
Tips for Playing Left Handed Acoustic Guitars by Martin
Embarking on your musical journey with a left handed acoustic guitar from Martin requires a unique approach. Here are some valuable tips to enhance your playing experience and unlock your musical potential.
Tip 1: Master the Reversed Stringing
Left handed Martin guitars feature a reversed stringing arrangement, with the bass strings on the left and the treble strings on the right. This requires adjusting your fingerpicking and strumming patterns. Practice regularly to develop muscle memory and fluidity in your playing.
Tip 2: Explore Open and Barre Chords
Open and barre chords form the foundation of guit
ar playing. Start with simple open chords like C, G, and D, and gradually progress to barre chords. Use a chord chart or online resources to learn the fingerings and practice transitioning smoothly between chords.
Tip 3: Develop Fingerpicking Techniques
Fingerpicking adds a delicate and expressive dimension to your playing. Practice using your thumb and fingers to pluck the strings individually. Start with basic patterns and gradually incorporate more complex fingerpicking styles.
Tip 4: Experiment with Different Strumming Patterns
Strumming is a fundamental technique that drives the rhythm of your playing. Explore various strumming patterns, such as downstrokes, upstrokes, and combinations of both. Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo and develop a consistent strumming hand.
Tip 5: Utilize Capo Techniques
A capo is a small device that clamps onto the neck of the guitar, raising the pitch of the strings. Experiment with placing the capo on different frets to change the key of your songs and explore new chord voicings.
Tip 6: Find a Qualified Guitar Teacher
Consider taking lessons from an experienced guitar teacher who specializes in left handed playing. They can provide personalized guidance, correct your technique, and help you develop a structured practice routine.
Tip 7: Join a Guitar Community
Connecting with other left handed guitarists can be invaluable. Join online forums or local groups to share experiences, learn from others, and stay motivated on your musical journey.
Summary:
Mastering a left handed acoustic guitar from Martin requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to embrace its unique characteristics. By following these tips, you can enhance your playing skills, develop your musicality, and unlock the full potential of your instrument.
Conclusion
Our exploration of left handed acoustic guitars by Martin has unveiled the unique characteristics, advantages, and playing techniques associated with these instruments. Left handed guitarists deserve access to high-quality guitars that cater to their specific needs, and Martin’s commitment to left-handed models is a testament to their dedication to inclusivity in the music industry.
By understanding the reversed stringing, body shape, and playing styles of left handed acoustic guitars, guitarists can unlock their musical potential and express their creativity fully. Martin’s legacy of craftsmanship and tonal excellence extends to their left handed models, providing players with instruments that inspire and accompany them on their musical journeys.
As the demand for left handed acoustic guitars continues to grow, we can expect to see even more innovation and advancements in this. Martin’s commitment to left-handed guitarists ensures that they will continue to have access to exceptional instruments that empower them to make their mark on the world of music.
