Martin Guitar DE Retro Plus Mahogany

I was a bit sceptical about a MiM Martin. I watched videos comparing it favourably to a D18, but the base high gloss D18 is 1400€ more. I decided to try this one first, though it completely went under my radar for a long time. I was preparing to get a D18 to compare the 2 instruments directly, but after playing the DE Retro Plus Mahogany for a few hours I decided that whatever improvements to tone and playability the D18 might bring, it wouldn‘t be worth an extra 1400€. There is such a thing as the Law of Diminishing Returns. That would be applicable in this case.
The DE Retro Plus Mahogany has the ‚Martin Tone,‘ it has ‚OOOMPH‘ in the bass, the neck is comfortable, the construction looks immaculate. Of course there are trade-offs; gigbag instead of case (at this price, a bit chintzy) Catalyzed Poly finish instead Nitrocellulose, different bracing than the D18. However these cut corners still allow for an excellent guitar at a more reasonable price point. The Mahogany back and sides are gorgeous, and it is quite lightweight, especially in comparison to my D28 (bought at Thomann in 2014). There is a pickup and tuner system that I haven‘t gotten working yet. I don‘t know if I will use them. I‘m not a fan of pickups in acoustic guitars, and am long past playing live. But, they‘re there.
This model is also set up out of the box, which is a nice change for Martin. Both strap pins are pre-installed, unlike on their Standard models. The action is playable, but I intend to lower the saddle after a few more days. The nut is cut well: no sharp notes in the first few frets, the frets themselves seem fine, so it is just a question of sanding the saddle a bit.
And of course, the things that made me a believer in this guitar: its tone and playability. Pure Martin. It has an excellent dynamic range. Pick or strum softly, it purrs; lean into it, it roars. This is an excellent addition to my 3 other Martins. I am very satisfied with my purchase. Unless you want the bragging rights of having a D18, this should be on your ‚try it!‘ list first. I didn‘t need to go further.