Good electric acoustic?

[Mike M.]

Our music director at church is urging me to play some acoustic guitar in addition to my bass duties. I have been planning on getting an electric acoustic for a while but haven't been looking at all. But now I have to start looking.

Haven't checked out these guitars in years and I know a lot has probably changed since I last looked.

Offhand I know I'd like something thats a bit smaller than a full sized dreadnought with a neck that's a bit on the wider side but not too fat feeling overall. One acoustic I remember very well was a Gibson Songwriter that I played a few years ago. The neck was to die for, but the price tag was a bit too much for me.

I'm sure there's something out there with a similar feel that sounds good for a lot less cash. I'm open to all and any suggestions.

[BillyIVbass]

A few years back I was sponsored by Walden Acoustics. They are an import (similar to Takamine I guess?) They make some dreads with Fishman electronics. Should be cheaper.

Epiphone, Yamaha and Breedlove are making some good stuff.

If I had an idea of your budget I could give you a better idea. Try to look for at least a spruce top if not real wood back and sides and neck. Stay away from fancy finish plastic topped guitars! (Ibanez)

With acoustics I really suggest going to the store about play EVERY guitar on the rack cheap ones to expensive ones and finding what you like and hate.

[waleross]

I don't know about the ones you mentioned but I bought a Washburn Acoustic Electric Guitar for $199.00 and its become my main for my lessons and playing. Washburn guitars are worth checking out, good luck . . . .

[MalcolmAmos]

The one that fits and sounds best - TO YOU - is the one to get.

I play a folk size Alvarez RF20C electric acoustic . That's a little smaller than most, but, I like it. I'm 6 foot and could loose a few.... but the folk just fits me.

Alvarez has a mellow tone, might give them a look and see if you like them.

Now if lead solos are in the future I'd spend the extra and look into a hollow body "F" hole. Which brand? Again fit and how it sounds to you is more important than the brand. They are all in competition, price seems to be the leveling agent.

Good luck.

[Mike M.]

Thanks, gang. As far as price, I'd really like to keep things in the $600 to $800 dollar range. Breedlove and Alvarez are two names I never thought of and I'll have to give them a look. I know from the past that Washburn made some good guitars.

Malcolm, it's funny you mentioned "F" hole guitars because it seems like they're making a bit of a comeback if I'm not mistaken. Seems like I've been seeing them a bit more often than I have in recent years.

[AnchorHoy]

Originally Posted by Mike M.

As far as price, I'd really like to keep things in the $600 to $800 dollar range

Small Jumbo size: Yamaha CPX700 or CPX900
Dread size: Epiphone Masterbilt series

For my 2¢ worth, Yamaha has the best factory plug-in-and-play pickup/preamp systems in the business. YMMV

I also agree with the sentiment to demo as many different guitars as possible. The standard of quality in the midrange price level is simply amazing these days. With that in mind, it's worth trying as many different brands as possible. Your own body geometry will have a big influence on what is comfortable for you

[Mike M.]

Originally Posted by AnchorHoy

Small Jumbo size: Yamaha CPX700 or CPX900
Dread size: Epiphone Masterbilt series

For my 2¢ worth, Yamaha has the best factory plug-in-and-play pickup/preamp systems in the business. YMMV

I also agree with the sentiment to demo as many different guitars as possible. The standard of quality in the midrange price level is simply amazing these days. With that in mind, it's worth trying as many different brands as possible. Your own body geometry will have a big influence on what is comfortable for you

Hey, thanks! Really appreciate all the suggestions I've been getting.