Molly Tuttle, the flatpicking virtuoso, embodies the essence of Americana music, making her collaboration with Martin Guitars a perfect match.She has lent her artistry to two signature models: the D-18 Molly Tuttle, a tribute to the classic American Dreadnought, and the D-X2E Molly Tuttle, crafted in Mexico to offer similar playability at a more accessible price point. While the materials differ substantially, both guitars share the same foundational design and key specifications.
Tuttle has experimented with various guitar brands, but her loyalty to Martin has been unwavering since childhood. She understands the brand’s legacy and how it complements her playing style. Her designs primarily adhere to conventional specifications, with one notable exception.
her selection of the D-18 mirrors the choices of legendary acoustic musicians like Hank Williams and Norman Blake, who famously celebrated the mahogany model in his 1990 duet with Tony Rice, “D-18 Song (Thank You Mr. Martin).” Many bluegrass musicians prefer mahogany for its clear tonal characteristics. Tuttle’s D-18 features a vintage nut width and an authentic 1941 neck profile with a Standard Taper. Notably, the rear-shifted scalloped bracing beneath its solid spruce top enhances its tonal clarity.
Rearward vs. Forward-Shifted X-Bracing
Rearward-shifted X-bracing is engineered to enhance the guitar’s articulation,diverging from the more common forward-shifted design,which aims to amplify bass and resonance by positioning the X closer to the sound hole. This allows more of the top to vibrate freely between the sound hole and the bridge. Players like billy Strings favor this approach, as seen in his signature D-28 released last year, which has become the standard for most Martin Dreadnoughts as 2025. The “GE” designation refers to the Golden Era, a time when Martin meticulously hand-shaped bracings to enhance top adaptability. The D-18 Molly tuttle also features this GE-style scalloping.
Tonal Comparisons: Molly and Billy
While the D-18 Molly Tuttle draws inspiration from her cherished 1943 model, its rear-shifted X-bracing is crafted to control bass resonance while enhancing clarity and punch. This results in a guitar that is exceptionally articulate and punchy, with remarkable note separation-ideal for Tuttle’s impressive flatpicking technique.
Observe her right-hand technique as she skillfully alternates between plucking near the neck and further away at lightning speed. Her clawhammer style, influenced by banjo techniques, showcases why she values the rearward X-bracing for its precision and tonal accuracy, aligning perfectly with her meticulous playing style.
This Custom/Special Edition instrument boasts the craftsmanship expected from a guitar priced significantly higher than a standard model. The attention to detail and potential hand-tuning contribute to the D-18’s lively, airy, and articulate sound while maintaining a solid low-end response.
In contrast to the D-28 Billy Strings, which features a forward-shifted X-brace and robust rosewood back and sides, the D-18 is intentionally designed for a more refined tone. While it’s amusing to compare the two,they represent the current royalty of the bluegrass scene-Tuttle’s elegance juxtaposed with Strings’ exuberance.
american vs. Mexican Models
It can be challenging to compare a guitar priced at 75% less, notably regarding tonal quality. The D-X2E Molly Tuttle employs a standard X-brace,which is suitable for its laminate construction,known for its brighter sound compared to solid wood.
On its own, the D-X2E Molly Tuttle produces a commendable sound, offering clarity, punch, and a respectable low end that can be enhanced by playing closer to the sound hole. However, when compared side by side, the Mexican model does not quite match the quality of its American counterpart, which is to be expected.
Nonetheless, the D-X2E comes equipped with a pickup, while the D-18 does not. When plugged into a quality acoustic amplifier, such as the Circa 74 used for testing, the D-X2E delivers a bold and resonant sound.Its E1 pickup and preamp system,featuring an onboard tuner discreetly integrated into the sound hole,adds convenience.
Ease of Play
Both the D-18 Molly Tuttle and D-X2E Molly Tuttle are highly playable right out of the box, with factory action set for optimal performance. The D-X2E features lighter strings,making it particularly user-amiable. Upon first touch, you’ll notice the difference in nut width; modern standards are typically 1.75 inches, while many vintage Dreadnoughts measure 1.69 inches (1 11/16 inches). Both of Tuttle’s models adhere to this narrower specification, which facilitates easier finger placement on frets, especially in the longer fretted regions.
Both necks are crafted to the 1941 profile specifications with a Standard Taper, providing a similar feel. They feel substantial in hand, particularly in lower positions, with the D-18 exhibiting a more pronounced V shape further up the neck.
while I may not be the ideal candidate for lead guitar in a bluegrass ensemble, I can still manage a few decent licks with the right instrument. The D-18 Molly Tuttle offers an authentic Martin feel that encourages players to explore their capabilities. I found the same to be true for the D-X2E.
As a primarily fingerstyle player who uses artificial nails, I found myself reaching for a pick more often with these signature models.The tonal clarity inspires a more articulate playing style. Both guitars deliver ample projection, especially when played with a serious pick.
Visual Appeal
While many Martins share a similar aesthetic, the D-18 Molly Tuttle stands out as uniquely as its player. The vintage sunburst top with a glossy finish and the striking Moon Phase inlays create a captivating visual experiance.
The D-X2E also holds its own in terms of aesthetics. At first glance, they may appear similar, but a closer inspection reveals subtle differences, such as a satin finish and inlays made from faux mother-of-pearl and abalone instead of genuine seashells. Ultimately, both of Molly’s Martins are visually stunning!
For dedicated Tuttle fans and those seeking a premium flatpicking D-18 tone, the Molly Tuttle Signature is a must-have. Conversely, the D-X2E is perfect for budget-conscious players who wont to plug in and play right away, while still delivering impressive acoustic sound.
Both guitars represent excellent value.The D-18 Custom is priced similarly at $4,199, but the D-18 Molly Tuttle offers a more visually appealing design and slightly easier playability, especially in the lower positions due to its narrower nut. The D-X2E Molly Tuttle provides many of the same features and tonal qualities for about a quarter of the price. Martin and Molly Tuttle have created a winning combination, and fans of both are sure to be delighted with these new signature models.
Watch on
SPECIFICATIONS
CONTACT martinguitar.com
D-18 Molly Tuttle
PRICE $4,199 with molded hardshell case
NUT WIDTH 1 11/16″, bone
NECK Mahogany, 1941 profile with Standard Taper, dovetail joint
FRETBOARD Ebony with Moon Phase mother-of-pearl inlays, 25.4″ scale
FRETS 20
TUNERS Nickel open gear with oval knobs
BODY Solid mahogany back & sides, solid spruce top
BRIDGE Ebony with compensated bone saddle
ELECTRONICS None
FACTORY STRINGS Martin Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 Phosphor Bronze Medium gauges .013-.056
WEIGHT 3.8 lbs (as tested)
BUILT USA
KUDOS stunning aesthetics, highly articulate tone without excessive top heaviness, excellent playability
CONCERNS Articulate tone may be too revealing for some players
D-X2E Molly Tuttle
PRICE $999 street with softshell case
NUT WIDTH 1 11/16″, white Corian
NECK Select hardwood, 1941 profile with Standard Taper, mortise & tenon joint
FRETBOARD Ebony, 25.4″ scale
FRETS 20
TUNERS Nickel open gear with oval knobs
BODY Figured mahogany high-pressure laminate back & sides, spruce top
BRIDGE Ebony with compensated white Tusq saddle
ELECTRONICS Martin E1 with volume and tone controls, plus tuner on/off and phase buttons in the upper lip of the sound hole; tuner in the lower lip
FACTORY STRINGS Martin Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 Light gauges .012-.054
WEIGHT 4.5 lbs (as tested)
BUILT Mexico
KUDOS Excellent playability, robust amplified tone, budget-friendly
CONCERNS Acoustic tone may be overly shining
