Guitar players corner!

[Leigh Semmens]

Yamaha have always produced a good acoustic instrument. The Martin, however, is likely to be a slightly better, though, that comment is only based upon the reputation of the Martin, I've not played one. If I were offered either, I go with which ever one "spoke" to me. That said, I own a Yamaha 12 String, a Maton 6 str (that is great), and a Cheap 6 Str that I have set up myself. I've played other Matons that are no where near as good as mine, so, in reality, play it, if you like it, it's the keeper.

 

[RedVee]

Yamaha have always produced a good acoustic instrument. The Martin, however, is likely to be a slightly better, though, that comment is only based upon the reputation of the Martin, I've not played one. If I were offered either, I go with which ever one "spoke" to me. That said, I own a Yamaha 12 String, a Maton 6 str (that is great), and a Cheap 6 Str that I have set up myself. I've played other Matons that are no where near as good as mine, so, in reality, play it, if you like it, it's the keeper.

G’day mate, so far I’ve looked at a couple of Yamaha’s and a Sigma.
I’ve got the entry Maton on my list.
Still struggling a little with fat fingers so looking for wider necks.

 

[Roland GR 88]

I am shopping for my first new flattop steel-string acoustic guitar in almost 50 years. I haven't even owned a flattop steel-string acoustic guitar in probably 45 years, just electric guitars (and basses obviously)... but it's time to get my sit-around-the-campfire-pickin'-and-a-strummin'-folk-songs hat on once again.

I've visited a couple local (non-Big Box) music stores and I think I have it narrowed down to one of two instruments. Which, sadly, are not both available at the same store, so I can't do a quick side-by-side comparison. One of them is a Martin GPC-13E, and the other is a Yamaha A5RVN. (Links courtesy of a Big Box music store.)

They're probably more similar than different. Price is a wash. I like that the Martin has fully sealed closed-gear tuning machines, and the Zircote back & sides are gorgeous and distinctive; I like that the Yamaha has a genuine ebony fingerboard and comes with a hardshell case.

I can't decide whether the fact that they both have fairly sophisticated electronics is a plus or a minus: On the one hand, I probably would make use of an amplified acoustic eventually. On the other hand, since my primary use in the short term is for unamplified playing, I wonder if I could get a better sounding instrument for the same money, or an as-good sounding instrument for less money, if I forgo electronics? They both sound wonderful acoustically (which is why they're the two that made the short list), and I haven't even bothered listening to their electronics.

So, a coin-toss? Any insights into which of these two models might be preferable, or which one you might lean towards? Thanks.

I would go with the Yamaha based on their build quality and reputation for building acoustics that hit far above their price point.
IMO they have always made up in quality what they lack in a name.
Martin, Taylor and Gibson trade on their history and long artist relationships while Yamaha just quietly make great guitars at very good prices.

 

[RedVee]

I am shopping for my first new flattop steel-string acoustic guitar in almost 50 years. I haven't even owned a flattop steel-string acoustic guitar in probably 45 years, just electric guitars (and basses obviously)... but it's time to get my sit-around-the-campfire-pickin'-and-a-strummin'-folk-songs hat on once again.

I've visited a couple local (non-Big Box) music stores and I think I have it narrowed down to one of two instruments. Which, sadly, are not both available at the same store, so I can't do a quick side-by-side comparison. One of them is a Martin GPC-13E, and the other is a Yamaha A5RVN. (Links courtesy of a Big Box music store.)

They're probably more similar than different. Price is a wash. I like that the Martin has fully sealed closed-gear tuning machines, and the Zircote back & sides are gorgeous and distinctive; I like that the Yamaha has a genuine ebony fingerboard and comes with a hardshell case.

I can't decide whether the fact that they both have fairly sophisticated electronics is a plus or a minus: On the one hand, I probably would make use of an amplified acoustic eventually. On the other hand, since my primary use in the short term is for unamplified playing, I wonder if I could get a better sounding instrument for the same money, or an as-good sounding instrument for less money, if I forgo electronics? They both sound wonderful acoustically (which is why they're the two that made the short list), and I haven't even bothered listening to their electronics.

So, a coin-toss? Any insights into which of these two models might be preferable, or which one you might lean towards? Thanks.

Just to pick up on a point from this post.
I’m struggling to equate a value to the electronics. I’m thinking it will be acoustic only for 99% of the time… but then what happens when that 1% rolls around? Borrow someone else’s guitar? But another guitar with electronics? Maybe it better just to pay the extra this time. Not really sure which way to go.
The leader in my camparo at the moment is the Yamaha LL6, but I really liked a Sigma with a 44.5mm nut width. It was all mahogany and the neck seemed set further into the body. A 000M-15S I think.
I will try the Maton S60 (no electronics) but a hard case… the equivalent with the electronics is Aust $600+ more expensive which takes it out of my league. But the base mini Maton EM6 is similar price with the electronics but people say they aren’t very good unplugged. Decisions.

In trying to put a value to electronics or not, no case - gig bag - hard softcase - hardcase. Those type of differences.

I’ve started a spreadsheet lol

 

[Jeff Scott]

My custom OM-18 came with a Fishman Ellipse Matrix Blend pickup system in it; I almost never use it, but it's there if I ever do need to (extremely unlikely).

 

[Leigh Semmens]

The Fishman pickups in the new Matons are a vast improvement over their earlier iterations. Mine is one of the older variety so I rarely ever plug it in.

 

[Treblefree]

I played bass first (since 2000) but picked up acoustic and uke around 2007. Mostly hummin n strummin, and a lil bluegrass pickin. Had my Seagull (by Godin) for over 10 years now:
View attachment 4500423

Got a Squier Telecaster for Xmas last year and started some online lessons*. Played through my Rumble 25 and eventually got a Champion 20 this summer. I wanted the Blues Jr, but for my needs (budget, headphones, aux in) this thing is perfect and the modeling is pretty good:
View attachment 4500407

Early Xmas this year is an Ibanez semi hollow. I love this guitar! Just suits me perfectly, ergonomically and sonically:
View attachment 4500408

GASing for a proper tube amp. I still think about getting the Blues Jr, but I’ll probably just watch the local classifieds and see what comes up. Peavey and Laney makes good amps. Burgera makes a cool looking 5 watt amp

Practice corner; 2/3 of my main axes are guitars!
View attachment 4500416

* went with Active Melody and I love it. Happy to expand if anyone is interested!

I can tell you've logged some hours on that Seagull.

I had the Blues Deluxe Reissue as my first tube amp. I loved the cleans, but I struggled with dialing in the right amount of bass and I did not like the breakup sounds I got out of it. Seemed a little thin on the crunch. That said, I'm playing a PRS, not a tele. I ended up swapping it out for the Marshall DSL-40CR. I can get really nice cleans still, but I love the breakup on this amp better than the Fender. Everyone will have their own experiences of course. I'll say this, even though the wattage is the same I think and the Marshall will carry any stage I'd ever need it to and then some, the Fender would absolutely pierce your ears.

And having said all that, my brother picked up a 2 watt Vox tube amp with a either 8 or 10" matching Vox speaker. Our worship leader at church uses that amp every week and it will carry the house by itself and sounds great with a brite and clean switch and gain that affects both settings. Really a great little amp.

 

[CallMeAl]

I can tell you've logged some hours on that Seagull.

I had the Blues Deluxe Reissue as my first tube amp. I loved the cleans, but I struggled with dialing in the right amount of bass and I did not like the breakup sounds I got out of it. Seemed a little thin on the crunch. That said, I'm playing a PRS, not a tele. I ended up swapping it out for the Marshall DSL-40CR. I can get really nice cleans still, but I love the breakup on this amp better than the Fender. Everyone will have their own experiences of course. I'll say this, even though the wattage is the same I think and the Marshall will carry any stage I'd ever need it to and then some, the Fender would absolutely pierce your ears.

And having said all that, my brother picked up a 2 watt Vox tube amp with a either 8 or 10" matching Vox speaker. Our worship leader at church uses that amp every week and it will carry the house by itself and sounds great with a brite and clean switch and gain that affects both settings. Really a great little amp.

When I went to demo the Champion 20 they had a Blues Jr there too. I thought “what the heck” and plugged in. It was just heavenly. The Jr and Deluxe seem like slightly different animals (15w vs 40w; same preamp tubes, different power tubes).

My guitarist uses a Marshall 12” combo in the trio I play bass for. (Pretty sure it’s your exact same combo). I never really favored “The Marshall Tone”, but he gets some sweet blues tones from it in person (Mostly SRV and Clapton-type stuff, with a Strat).

Never played anything Vox but I do like the Vox AC30 model on the Champion.

I have time to demo stuff and see what fits me. The Champion 20 is really great and meets all my needs ATM. Just think it’d be nice to have some tubes (GAS!) A 5w would be plenty for the house. I don’t really see myself on stage with a guitar. Maybe casual friend jams, so I think 15w tube amp should be plenty, when I get to that point.

 

[Treblefree]

When I went to demo the Champion 20 they had a Blues Jr there too. I thought “what the heck” and plugged in. It was just heavenly. The Jr and Deluxe seem like slightly different animals (15w vs 40w; same preamp tubes, different power tubes).

My guitarist uses a Marshall 12” combo in the trio I play bass for. (Pretty sure it’s your exact same combo). I never really favored “The Marshall Tone”, but he gets some sweet blues tones from it in person (Mostly SRV and Clapton-type stuff, with a Strat).

Never played anything Vox but I do like the Vox AC30 model on the Champion.

I have time to demo stuff and see what fits me. The Champion 20 is really great and meets all my needs ATM. Just think it’d be nice to have some tubes (GAS!) A 5w would be plenty for the house. I don’t really see myself on stage with a guitar. Maybe casual friend jams, so I think 15w tube amp should be plenty, when I get to that point.

Yeah, I could have got away with a lot less wattage and I didn't realize that being a bassist. I thought 40 would be too little. Now I'm convinced I could be very happy with a 5 or maybe even less. Really, that 2 Watt VOX is plenty. I wish it had a little more tweakability, but that is all.

I didn't play the Blues Jr, but people swear by them. I wished I had played one. In any case, I'm saving for a Tele (my favorite guitar); when I get in range, I'll sell my PRS for the balance. Whenever I buy one, I may not like my amp for it and have to start over; LOL. That is all the fun though isn't. Champagne dreams - Mt Dew budget....

 

[Killing Floor]

I decided that since I have pretty good all or most of the year I should ask Santa for something with a trem bridge. I have been a Tele player for a long-ish time and have standard, HH, and a baritone, all Fender T. On some level I know I don't need a Strat but I kinda need a Strat anyway, or don't I? Whacha got?

I've been lurking round the Mod Shop builder site and I also really like the idea of the EOB Strat but is that going to be gimmicky? I know you can bypass the sustainer so at that point it's an HSH. Anyone have any cool suggestions? I'm flexible, could spend up to about 2K but perfectly cool not spending that much.
Lay it on me.

 

[Killing Floor]

Gratuitous pic of Mod Shop HH and the Oly one is baritone.

 

[Jeff Scott]

Yeah, I could have got away with a lot less wattage and I didn't realize that being a bassist. I thought 40 would be too little. Now I'm convinced I could be very happy with a 5 or maybe even less.....

Try a Swart STR-Tremolo; loudest 5 watt amp I've ever played through (I sold it to a friend of mine when I got out of the electric guitar world).

 

[Killing Floor]

What makes UK II unique is the fact that the body contains NO wood whatsoever. Aluminium frame surrounded by foam. Charles Kaman - may he RIP - most certainly had some interesting concepts. Since I already own several "conventional" electrics, this was a welcomed addition. I like it a lot.

He was a helicopter test pilot and became a pioneer in turbine helo motors. The material used to make roundback bowls and some other components was a composite rotor material that he tried in instrument applications on a hunch. He was already quite aware of the acoustic properties of the material and shapes. He was a guitar enthusiast. The famous roundback, the Balladeer, was named after a bluegrass combo he was fond of and when they received a standing ovation while playing one of his prototypes he drew the name for the company. Charles Kaman was a fine man. I had the pleasure of speaking with him on several occasions and worked for his company for about 7 years a long time ago. Absolute gentleman. His son was a total DB but that's another story.

 

[Jeff Scott]

His son was a total DB but that's another story.

Let's hear it, we got time.

 

[EdwardofHuncote]

Here's my thread update-

I ran into a nice deal on the companion to my 2011 Les Paul Special with P-90's, rescued from Craigslist last year.

Here she is-

This one came in 2012 outfitted with 490R/498T HB's, and cream/chrome. I'm not totally in love with these pickups. They're plenty hot. Just... no character... dry... raspy. I can tweak some warmth in. They just don't quite do it for me. The guitar is great, but I think it could be better. I'm about to have push-pull pots installed for a coil-tap on either these, or a pickup upgrade. I have a NOS set of these Burstbucker '61s. That could work... they sounded really good in another guitar I tried recently.

 

[Killing Floor]

Here's my thread update-

I ran into a nice deal on the companion to my 2011 Les Paul Special with P-90's, rescued from Craigslist last year.

View attachment 4504189

Here she is-
View attachment 4504188

This one came in 2012 outfitted with 490R/498T HB's, and cream/chrome. I'm not totally in love with these pickups. They're plenty hot. Just... no character... dry... raspy. I can tweak some warmth in. They just don't quite do it for me. The guitar is great, but I think it could be better. I'm about to have push-pull pots installed for a coil-tap on either these, or a pickup upgrade. I have a NOS set of these Burstbucker '61s. That could work... they sounded really good in another guitar I tried recently.

View attachment 4504191

Liking the P90s more than the stock buckers? Your upgrades will make it sing.

 

[EdwardofHuncote]

Liking the P90s more than the stock buckers? Your upgrades will make it sing.

The P-90 Special guitar is MAGICAL. I've never touched the electronics, just repaired the headstock.

But this HB Special... it's got tons of potential... I just think these pickups are too 'something'. Can't quite name it. It's just so hard to get a likeable tone. I've tried different strings, tweaked the pickup height. It can't do clean at all. It does grit very well. And very little else.

 

[Jeff Scott]

I've never touched the electronics, just repaired the headstock.

Classic Gibson!

 

[Black_In_Mind]

My Peavey T-60 is with me again after an extended stay with a local tech in order to undo the coil split mod done by the previous owner.

I could barely tell the difference between using the humbuckers and coil splitting them before I sent it in and I come to find out from the tech that the wiring was not the best when it was rewired to coil split from the phase switch.

With the wiring back to stock the difference is night and day but I also regained a bit of versatility that I didn't get with it modded.

 

[RedVee]

Guitar teacher has suggested I check out some Eastman acoustic guitars in my search. Suggested I can get solid wood guitars at a good price.

Anyone have can’t experience with Eastman?