Eastman E20P vs Martin 00-28vs

Comparing the Eastman E20P with a Martin 00-28vs. Do you really need to buy a Martin for Martin quality? Although the Eastman will never be a Martin, the E20P comes very close to the quality offered by Martin. The differences are in the cost of material, such as 3-piece mahogany neck vs 1-piece, nickel plated Waverly tuners vs chrome plated - yet still good - knockoffs, and some very minor setup refinements that still need to be done to the Eastman - notably the poor nut cut and some minor fret buzz. The only reason why I'm so picky about the details on the Eastman is because I can compare it side by side with the Martin, which has zero flaws.

I bought the Eastman to see if it could replace the Martin for 1/3 the cost and keep the difference. After having played both for several months, I can say that the Eastman comes close, but I don't think I will ever give up the Martin - and it may be that this particular Martin is exceptionally good - it's hard to say. But while the Eastman is an excellent guitar, the Martin is closer to perfection.

If you're wondering whether or not you'd be just as happy with the Martin as with the Eastman, the answer is no - if you were to play both, side by side, you'd pick the Martin too. But if you ask if you'd be satisfied with an Eastman, the answer is yes - it's a great guitar, worth double its street value.

Skip the first 1.5 mins if you don't care about the case. The reason why I mention the case is to provide an overall experience between the two guitars.