From the Factory | February 19, 2025

Two Necks, Infinite Possibilities: Meet the Grand J-28E DN

The Martin double-neck acoustic guitar, Grand J-28E DN

What happens when you combine nearly two centuries of craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology and innovation? You get the all-new Grand J-28E DN—a double-neck guitar that opens up a world of musical possibilities. 

Before we dive into what makes this guitar so remarkable, check out our video below for a behind-the-scenes look at how it all came together. From historic double-neck designs—including a rare harp guitar from 1902—to modern inspiration from artists like John Mayer, this story is as impressive as the guitar itself. 

Seeing Double? 

Let’s talk about the obvious standout feature of the Grand J-28E DN: its two necks. With a six-string and a twelve-string neck, you can switch from lush, layered chords to intricate leads in an instant. It’s like having two incredible guitars rolled into one. 

The six-string neck has a slightly slimmer 1 11/16" profile at the nut, making it super comfortable for fast runs and complex chords. The twelve-string neck delivers that iconic chorus-like shimmer, perfect for adding fullness to your sound. Both necks feature ebony fingerboards, a satin finish, and elegant mother-of-pearl dot inlays. 

The body is a Grand Jumbo—a shape built for bold, resonant projection, complete with classic 28 Style appointments like antique white binding and a multi-stripe rosette for a touch of vintage charm. The solid East Indian rosewood back and sides deliver rich overtones and deep bass, while the solid spruce top adds brightness and balance to your tone. Whether you’re strumming, fingerpicking, or flatpicking, this guitar holds its own—no matter which neck you play. 

Detail shot of the two necks joining the single body of the Grand J-28E DN acoustic guitar.

Built with Precision 

Creating a guitar like this isn’t easy. It's been years in the making, and it took advanced five-axis CNC technology, and a dedicated design team, to perfect its unique construction. The two necks are secured with Martin’s signature compound dovetail joints—known for their strength, stability, and ability to enhance tone. 

Under the hood, a unique X bracing pattern reinforces the body, balancing resonance and structural integrity to support the powerful Grand Jumbo sound. 

Closeup shot of the sound hole, with the two separate sets of strings crossing the body of the Grand J-28E DN

Stage & Studio Ready 

What’s a guitar like this without performance-ready electronics? The Grand J-28E DN comes equipped with custom Fishman® electronics designed to capture the full tonal range of both necks. You can switch seamlessly between the six-string and twelve-string necks using an integrated selector switch, giving you ultimate control on stage or in the studio. 

This guitar also comes strung with Martin Authentic Acoustic® Lifespan® 2.0 strings and includes a molded hardshell case to keep it safe wherever your music takes you. 

Closeup of the body of the Grand J-28E DN

An Instrument 100 Years in the Making 

The Grand J-28E DN is more than just a double-neck—it’s a nod to Martin’s tradition of pushing boundaries while staying true to its roots. And as part of the Standard Series, the Grand J-28E DN represents a historic first—it’s the first catalogued double-neck instrument in Martin’s storied history. 

Ready to learn more? Watch the full story in the video above, dive into the specs and details on our website, and contact your local Martin dealer to try one for yourself—and don’t forget to check out all the other new instruments we released at this year’s NAMM Show. 

This isn’t just a guitar—it’s an invitation to redefine what’s possible and unleash your inner artist. 

Until next time, happy playing! 

Downward angle of the double neck acoustic guitar, Grand J-28E DN