ed2956 - Posted - 01/12/2017:  11:47:55

I have a Collings D2 HA Cocobolo  and  Martin D 18 GE . The Martin feels like it has much less tension on the strings than the Collings.  I feel like I'm fighting the Collings some . Actions are similar. Collings might be almost an imperceptible amount  higher in action but pretty close to the same as the 18. Same type strings on both. I had lowered the action some on the Collings but noticed a drop in volume and I don't want to lower it any further. Beside it's as low as the 18. One thing I did notice is the neck on the Collings is very straight. . Now I've heard that if the neck has some relief it might take the tension off the strings .  Before I try that , can anyone confirm or have anything to add that ? Thanks

Edited by - ed2956 on 01/12/2017 17:30:06

UsuallyPickin - Posted - 01/13/2017:  08:27:45

Hmmmm .... I am guessing that the scale of the two guitars is the same? Both being dreadnought model instruments it is likely. If the strings are indeed the same make and gauge then the only reason is the setup. Yes a string instrument needs some relief in the neck. About a playing card thickness when the string is held down at the first and twelfth frets. Check the height of the nut and saddle also, a single millimeter can make a significant difference. R/

jrcros - Posted - 09/07/2017:  05:22:06

According to Collings, the scale length of the D2 HA is 25,5 (collingsguitars.com/acoustic-guitars/d2h/). That's a bit longer than Martin's 25,4 (which is actually 25,34). Not much, but maybe enough to notice a difference with the same setup.

Goldstarman - Posted - 02/23/2019:  22:28:11

If the headstock angle is different it will affect the tension and make it feel tighter and less slinky.

Steve Blanchard - Posted - 12/29/2019:  14:56:51

While I like Collings guitars for their tone and volume, I've always felt that I was wrestling with them as opposed to Martin. Just my experience but I've spoke with other guitarists about this very thing...I was mildly surprise to see that I wasn't the only one who felt that way. All this being said, I've played some absolutely great Collings guitars.