Answering long-standing player demand for the return of one of Martin’s most distinctive historical designs, the Martin 5-28 Terz acoustic guitar brings the unique voice of the Size 5 body back to the lineup. The smallest guitar currently offered by Martin, this compact 12-fret acoustic is designed for Terz tuning—a minor third higher than standard pitch—producing a focused, bell-like voice filled with shimmer, clarity and harmonic sparkle. A spruce top paired with solid East Indian rosewood back and sides adds warmth, depth and overtone richness, while traditional Style 28 appointments reinforce its premium character. With its short 21.38" scale length, comfortable feel and surprisingly full sound, the 5-28 Terz offers players, songwriters and recording musicians an inspiring way to expand their acoustic palette.
A Historic Martin Design Returns
The Size 5 body traces its roots to the earliest years of Martin guitar building, and the 5-28 Terz revives this historically significant format for modern players. As Martin’s smallest current guitar, it delivers a quick, immediate response that feels lively under the fingers while remaining remarkably expressive. Compact dimensions make it easy to travel with, comfortable to hold and rewarding for extended playing sessions, but its appeal goes well beyond portability. The 5-28 Terz offers a distinctive voice and playing experience unlike anything else in the Martin lineup.
Built for the Bell-Like Voice of Terz Tuning
Designed specifically for Terz tuning—a minor third above standard pitch—the 5-28 Terz produces a bright, focused voice that occupies a unique space in an acoustic arrangement. Its clear upper register and natural shimmer make it ideal for doubling rhythm parts, layering recordings and adding new tonal colors alongside larger-bodied acoustics. Unlike many small guitars that sacrifice fullness for portability, the combination of spruce and solid East Indian rosewood helps maintain warmth, depth and harmonic complexity. The result is a voice that stands out in a mix while remaining unmistakably musical.
Short Scale Comfort and Responsive 12-Fret Design
The 21.38" scale length creates an inviting playing feel with reduced string tension and effortless fretting comfort. A modified low oval neck profile and High Performance Taper provide a familiar modern feel, while the 1.75" nut width offers ample room for fingerstyle articulation and clean chord work. The 12-fret neck joint contributes to the guitar’s distinctive responsiveness and warmth, helping notes feel immediate and connected beneath the fingers. Whether used for writing, recording or casual playing, the compact design encourages exploration and creativity.
Style 28 Appointments and Premium Martin Craftsmanship
Though compact in size, the 5-28 Terz carries the refined details associated with Martin’s venerable Style 28 tradition. Antique white binding, a Style 28 multi-stripe rosette and mother-of-pearl fingerboard inlays create a classic visual presentation, while the aging toner spruce top evokes the look of a well-loved vintage instrument. An ebony fingerboard and bridge, bone nut and saddle, East Indian rosewood headplate and nickel open-gear tuners with butterbean knobs complete a build that feels every bit as premium as Martin’s larger-bodied offerings.
A Unique Acoustic Voice for Players and Collectors
More than simply a smaller guitar, the 5-28 Terz offers a specialized acoustic voice that opens new creative possibilities. Its combination of Terz tuning, compact dimensions, rosewood richness and Style 28 refinement makes it equally appealing to performers, recording musicians, songwriters and Martin enthusiasts seeking something genuinely different. Complete with a hardshell case, the Martin 5-28 Terz acoustic guitar delivers a rare blend of heritage, craftsmanship and musical versatility in a format unlike any other guitar in the current Martin lineup.