OFFICIAL "What guitar under $300" Thread

[fsb_ben]

Ok so ive read most of the threads requesting advice on the lower priced guitars and this is the list of guitars that were most commonly recommended


- Takamine GS330S ($299.99 @ musiciansfriend.com) -
+Solid Cedar Top
+Nato Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Satin Finish
+Top and Back Body Binding
+Chrome Tuners
+Dreadnought Body
http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/7/2/5/272725.jpg
Takamine GS330S @ MusiciansFriend.com (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Takamine-GS330S-Acoustic-Guitar?sku=516304)


- Alvarez RD20s ($229.99 - $239.99 @ musiciansfriend.com) -
+Solid Sitka Spruce Top
+Mahogany Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Chrome Tuners
+Dreadnought Body
http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/8/4/4/374844.jpg
Alvarez RD20S @ MusiciansFriend.com (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Alvarez-RD20S-Regent-Series-Dreadnought-Acoustic-Guitar?sku=518725)

- Art & Lutherie Spruce/Cedar ($279.99/$299.99 @ durdels.com) -
+Solid Spruce OR Cedar (Pictured) Top
+Wild Cherry Back and Sides
+Silver Leaf Maple Neck
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Semi-Gloss Finish
+Dreadnought Body
http://www.durdels.com/ProductImages/alcedar.jpg
Art & Lutheris Cedar @ Durdel's (http://www.durdels.com/browseproducts/A---L-Cedar.HTML)
Art & Lutherie Spruce @ Durdel's (http://www.durdels.com/browseproducts/A---L-Spruce.HTML)

- Yamaha FG700s ($199.99 @ musiciansfriend.com) -
+Solid Sitka Spruce Top
+Nato Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Natural Finish
+Top and Back Body Binding
+Chrome Tuners
+Dreadnought Body
http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/5/4/9/230549.jpg
Yamaha FG700S @ MusiciansFriend.com (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Yamaha-FS700S-Folk-Acoustic-Guitar?sku=518274)

- Yamaha FG730s ($299.99 @ musiciansfriend.com) -
+Solid Sitka Spruce Top
+Rosewood Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Top, Back, and Neck Binding
+Chrome Tuners
+Dreadnought Body
http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/8/1/6/230816.jpg
Yamaha FG730S @ MusiciansFriend.com (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Yamaha-FG730S-Solid-Top-Acoustic-Guitar?sku=519049)

- Washburn D10s ($259.99 natural color @ zzounds.com) -
+Solid Spruce Top
+Mahogany Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Chrome Tuners
+Dreadnought Body
+Includes Hardshell Case
http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/0/5/8/534058.jpg
Washburn D10S @ MusiciansFriend.com (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Washburn-D10S-Acoustic-Guitar-?sku=515152)

- Washburn D30s ($299.99 @ musiciansfriend.com) -
+Solid Spruce Top
+Rosewood Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Top, Back, Fretboard, and Headstock Binding
+Chrome Grover Tuners
+Dreadnought Body
http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/6/0/5/272605.jpg
Washburn D30S @ MusiciansFriend.com (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Washburn-D30S-Acoustic-Guitar?sku=515929)

- Samick Beaumont D7 ($252 @ instrumentpro.com) -
+Solid Cedar Top
+Rosewood Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Top and Back Binding
+Chrome Grover Tuners
+Dreadnought Body
http://www.instrumentpro.com/include/phpThumb/phpThumb.php?src=/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/samd7.jpg&w=300&h=300&far=1&f=jpeg&bg=FFFFFF
Samick Beamont D7 @ InstrumentPro.com (http://www.instrumentpro.com/P-SAMD7.html)

- Epiphone Dove ($299.99 at musiciansfriend.com) -
+Solid Spruce Top
+Maple Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Maple Neck
+Chrome Tuners
+Dreadnought Body
http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/2/8/6/475286.jpg
Epiphone Dove @ MusiciansFriend.com (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Epiphone-Dove-Acoustic-Guitar?sku=518210)


By no means is this an exhaustive list but ur looking at the top competitors in the "under $300" category.

Feel free to suggest your own opinion if the guitar isn't up there and i'll gladly put it on the list for others to consider! (It'd be helpful if u found the price and a picture to go along with it :-) )

Cheers.

P.S. The post below this one by Jimtaka is an extension of this list. We had to do this because you can only post 10 pictures per post.

[jimtaka]

- Seagull S6 Entourage ($299.99 @ musiciansfriend.com) -
+Solid Spruce Top
+Wild Cherry Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Maple Neck
+Rustic Burst Finish
+Chrome Tuners
+Dreadnought Body
http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/6/4/7/434647.jpg

- Walden D550 ($199.99 @ musiclandcentral.net) -
+Solid Spruce Top
+Sapele Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Dreadnought Body
http://www.waldenguitars.com/img/guitars/d550.jpg

- Takamine G340SC ($299.99 @ Musiciansfriend.com) -
+Solid Spruce Top
+Mahogany Back and Sides
+Rosewood Fretboard and Bridge
+Gloss Finish
+Gold Tuners
+Dreadnought Body with Cutaway
http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/7/4/1/321741.jpg
Takamine G340SC @ MusiciansFriend.com (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Takamine-G340SC-Solid-Top-Cutaway-Acoustic-Guitar?sku=516423)

[jimtaka]

post reserved for future additions.

[aMeRiCaNsTrAt21]

http://www.ibanez.com/guitars/guitar.asp?model=AW40NT&z=y

Ok Guys, wow I went to GC today and first guitars I played were the ones almost everyone recomended the Alvarez RD-8 and the Yamaha FG-30.. pretty comparable both around same sound quality.. Then I tryed the Ibanez AW40NT and OMG I almost Creamed... sounds like 1,000 dollar guitars, this guitar is brand new from 2006! The Yamaha FG series and Alvarez RD series dont compare.. Im telling you go to your local GC and try out one of these guitars, you will not be dissapointed.. and they are beautiful.. Look at the link!

[fsb_ben]

http://www.ibanez.com/guitars/guitar.asp?model=AW40NT&z=y

Ok Guys, wow I went to GC today and first guitars I played were the ones almost everyone recomended the Alvarez RD-8 and the Yamaha FG-30.. pretty comparable both around same sound quality.. Then I tryed the Ibanez AW40NT and OMG I almost Creamed... sounds like 1,000 dollar guitars, this guitar is brand new from 2006! The Yamaha FG series and Alvarez RD series dont compare.. Im telling you go to your local GC and try out one of these guitars, you will not be dissapointed.. and they are beautiful.. Look at the link!

Cool i'll add it to the list.. btw u tried an fg-30?! dood cmon, fg-700s or 730s!

[aMeRiCaNsTrAt21]

Wow EDIT!!! I played the FG730! Didnt compare to that of the sound of the Ibanez AW40NT, Try it out sometime

[jimtaka]

that's a raelly good looking guitar based on the pictures. i think i might have to go to guitar center this weekend and play one. thanks for the info americanstrat21.

[lowlab]

good thread my first guitar i picked upped was a yamaha c-70 sounded like a washboard ,then picked up my my seagull s6 very,very excellent guitar and around 300 bucks if i'm not mistaken

[jimtaka]

yeah i've heard good things about the seagull s6 and a couple other of their lower-priced models. haven't ever played one though that i can recall.

[lowlab]

to behonest what i think made more of in impression to me with the seegull was the change from an old c-70 that i picked up used for like 50 bucks.but all in all it's good if not great for the price ..........Quick question what guitar did kurt kobian use in the unplugged version of "man who sold the world"...........Sorry if this is not the thread dor it ....

[fsb_ben]

to behonest what i think made more of in impression to me with the seegull was the change from an old c-70 that i picked up used for like 50 bucks.but all in all it's good if not great for the price ..........Quick question what guitar did kurt kobian use in the unplugged version of "man who sold the world"...........Sorry if this is not the thread dor it ....

No idea. But it'd probably cost more than $300 if Kobain used it.



I thought about putting the Seagull S6 on this list but its over $300.. $360 to be exact.

[moe_d]

Seagull S6 is around $359 or something.

[fsb_ben]

yeah so over the limit :-P

[lowlab]

i was asking what guitar he used in the unplugged version of "man who sold the world".........i was not saying that he used a seagull s6 ..............

[fsb_ben]

i was asking what he used......... not saying that he used it ..............

LMAO wow.. just.. WOW. Thats possibly one of the most retarded things i've ever read.

edit: congrats uve made it into my sig LMAO.

I hope u understand that I'm saying Kobain wouldn't use a cheap guitar.

[lowlab]

lol ...............i get it bad f@cking me

[fsb_ben]

does anyone have ne more suggestions?

[61cygni]

What about the epiphone pr5e, I've been looking at it, I really like the florentine cutaway (none of the recommended are cutaways) but I don't know how reliable the reviews are.

Anyone have the guitar and could share their opinion?

[fsb_ben]

well first off, cutaway usually means acoustic electric and thats a whole other thread in itself. Generally speaking, ur better off getting a quality acoustic and then buying a pickup or just putting ur guitar to a mic. U get a better guitar and a better sound in the end.

the epiphone pr5e doesnt have a solid top and its $300 man, not worth the $ imo.

[funkysensubean]

Whats the difference between the Yamaha's? (FG700s, FG730s....)?

im learning abit of guitar at school and im looking to buy something (cheap $200), i can see that they have different finishes? is it worth the difference?

[moe_d]

different binding, different rosette, different body wood.
the different finish is optional.

[jimtaka]

What about the epiphone pr5e, I've been looking at it, I really like the florentine cutaway (none of the recommended are cutaways) but I don't know how reliable the reviews are.

Anyone have the guitar and could share their opinion?

not worth the money. there are several other guitars out there with much more bang for you buck. see the first post in this thread for examples :)

[fsb_ben]

Whats the difference between the Yamaha's? (FG700s, FG730s....)?

im learning abit of guitar at school and im looking to buy something (cheap $200), i can see that they have different finishes? is it worth the difference?

The main difference is nato back and sides vs. rosewood back and sides. Different woods = different sounds soooooo make sure u know what kind of sound u want. But for $200, thats more of the FG700s price range.. its still a great guitar tho!


edit: I've taken the Alvarez RD8 off the list because the RD20s is the same price but comes w/ a solid top.

[IamJonsCranium]

just a note on the alvarez's

the regent series are made in china. they sound ok, but the build quality can be somewhat lacking.

the artist series and up are made in korea, and are a huge step in quality. i would highly recommend an artist over a regent. it might bump you up to about $400 though.

i am a huge alvarez fan, but i recently have been playing the godin arts and luthiers guitars, and they might have the alvarez beat. great sounding guitars, and very inexpensive.

[savy11]

what wood fo you want for a lighter airier sound

[washburn001]

check out the washburn wd32sw and wd18sw these are all soild wood guitars and you can get for $200 off of p-hill auctions on ebay that is if you can live with a 2nd or blemished one.

[Synyster Gates]

definetly with an alvarez

those guitars are amazing

[fsb_ben]

check out the washburn wd32sw and wd18sw these are all soild wood guitars and you can get for $200 off of p-hill auctions on ebay that is if you can live with a 2nd or blemished one.

Over the $ limit sorry dood.

what wood fo you want for a lighter airier sound

Rosewood.

[funkysensubean]

I went to a few guitar stores, and tried some out.

Was hoping test a alvarez and the listed yamaha models but i didnt run into any.
I like the Art & Lutherie Wild Cherry alot, over the Art & Lutherie Cedar.
http://www.artandlutherieguitars.com/models.htm

But im a complete beginner, i think im gonna try a few more and then perhaps settle on the Wild Cherry ($240).

Question: the Cedar is a solid top, and the Wild Cherry isnt a solid top? meaning, i can be more careless with the Wild Cherry?

[moe_d]

yep!

[funkysensubean]

sweet!

[fsb_ben]

LOL but don't get into the habit of treating ur guitar like **** tho!

[jimtaka]

yeah you can be more careless with it but it isn't going to sound as good and it won't ever sound any better than it does right now...... not to mention i prefer the tonal qualities of cedar WAY above cherry

[diegob]

i was wondering if you will buy one of this guitars why you should buy ??

because i want to buy one, this is my range of money and i cant go to a store and try the guitars.

[fsb_ben]

i was wondering if you will buy one of this guitars why you should buy ??

because i want to buy one, this is my range of money and i cant go to a store and try the guitars.

****ty deal man.. i'd personally go to the Yamaha FG730s but thats just my opinion.

[jimtaka]

everybody in here is going to give you a various array of opinions regarding which one of these guitars is the best for the buck. you really need to go and play at least a couple before you go buying anything. why can't you play any of these models? these are all VERY common models by VERY common manufacturers.

[diegob]

i dont live in usa and the guitars here are a sh!t are not from good brands.. and i dont think that i can find this guitars maybe i can find some ibanez or fenders guitars but there are a little quantity of models.. so i dont think so.. i like ibanez guitars so i maybe pick the ibanez guitar that is posted here.. is pretty and is ibanez and have good ratings..

[kpasa01]

Yea, I have a takmine and the action is really screwy. I've had to adjust it 2 times now. Got 11's on it and its still too high. I've lowered it significantly and I don't think it could go too much farther without some fret noise. My opinion, go with the Yamaha. They do make some awesome guitars.

[Akyo]

I'm gonna be buying myself a new acoustic this month and after a little research and this thread i'm considering the fg700, but can someone tell me what the difference between the fg700 s and the fg700 ms is?

[fsb_ben]

Yup!

The FG700s has a much better coating on it.. coating = protection from scratches and stuff on the actual wood. The FG700ms does not have the coating and therefor is MUCH MUCH easier to scratch and ding up.

I highly recommed you get the FG700s and not the FG700ms. Its a couple bucks more but its definately worth getting the high quality finish instead of no finish :p

[Goon]

I always think it's a good idea to check out some second hand deals out there. You might get a perfectly good guitar for cheap that might've been expensive to begin with and it'll be better value for money.

[moe_d]

But there is a plus side to the FG700MS's thinner finish which is more resonation and faster aging.

[jimtaka]

But there is a plus side to the FG700MS's thinner finish which is more resonation and faster aging.

i agree.... i think the thinner finish is better because it allows the top to resonate more. i am not terribly familiar with these exact two models o guitar, i was just making a generalization.

[diegob]

well the type of music that i play in the acoustic is pop music like james blunt.. what guitar would be the best to play this type of music ?

[~~cemetary~~]

i got a jj heart package deal for 125$ but it was on sale

[jimtaka]

well the type of music that i play in the acoustic is pop music like james blunt.. what guitar would be the best to play this type of music ?

i would think you would want the lighter finish for poppy music. music like that generally has alotta ringing highs and mids.

[Diversity]

i just picked up the yamaha fg700ms and i am quite pleased with it. i really wanted to try that ibanez that the other guy was nutting over but they didn't have it at my guitar store. anyways i happy about my first acoustic purchase thanks to this thread.

cheers!

[diegob]

i dont know because i dont like how this yamaha looks.. i want a best looking guitar :P

[Guitarist132]

I have a tak G series...Its nice, got a really bright sound.

[roamingbard13]

i dont know because i dont like how this yamaha looks.. i want a best looking guitar :P


For $300, you can't get much looks wise. Unless you buy a crappy Ibanez.

[diegob]

but i dont know the ibanez and the washburn are prettier :P i dont know if the yamaha is a lot better than this 2.. i like the takamine too.. im looking a bright sound to play james blunt john mayer thins like that.. but i think i maybe go for the yamaha..

[fsb_ben]

i dont know because i dont like how this yamaha looks.. i want a best looking guitar :P

Buy a piece of shat, made outta plastic guitar in blueburst.. used.

[diegob]

you dont have to get angry.. i just a newbie questioning..

[fsb_ben]

im not angry, im just telling u the cheapest route to a good looking guitar

[diegob]

ok.. :/

[jimtaka]

i dont know because i dont like how this yamaha looks.. i want a best looking guitar :P

you may think you want a really good looking guitar now.... but down the road once you learn to play it... you'll be much happier if you bought a good sounding guitar. TONE > APPEARANCE

[diegob]

yeah.. i think i wil go for the robacco sunburst yamaha

[fsb_ben]

Added the Samick Beaumont. Played this guitar today and it was definately a contender. Solid cedar top w/ rosewood back and sides (very odd combination but sounded very good).

[blkbelt65]

DOnt' forget..... buying a guitar from a music store is just like buying a car - haggle with them and ask for the best price. They all have room to move on the price. I just bought a brand new ibanez hollow body that had a sticker on it of 399, haggled for a minute or 2 and got it for 299 - plus he threw in a nice padded gig bag.

[SwabbyThePirate]

I just went to a store near baltimore and got an acoustic by "Cedar Ridge" and really like it... it was like 200 bucks i think. does anybody know anything about the company? i haven't ever heard of it before...

[Dreadnought]

"Official" threads have to be endorsed by a moderator....

BUT, since I love this forum and the people in it, I'll sticky it :p:

[roamingbard13]

"Official" threads have to be endorsed by a moderator....

BUT, since I love this forum and the people in it, I'll sticky it :p:


You the man. Plus, we all endorse this thread anyways... :p:

[fsb_ben]

"Official" threads have to be endorsed by a moderator....

BUT, since I love this forum and the people in it, I'll sticky it :p:

Thanks Dreadnought! I think this sticky should cut down like 40% of the posts in this forum :)

[jimtaka]

Added the Samick Beaumont. Played this guitar today and it was definately a contender. Solid cedar top w/ rosewood back and sides (very odd combination but sounded very good).


my favorite guitar that i own is a breedlove with cedar top and rosewood back and sides :)

and i'm glad to see this thread finally stickied!

[Metalology]

http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/1/3/0/276130.jpg

Excellent classical guitar for the price. I've just recently got one, it's my first and I love it.

$279.99 @ Musician's Friend!

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Guitar/Acoustic?sku=519520&src=HC004

[horn82y]

my favorite guitar that i own is a breedlove with cedar top and rosewood back and sides :)

and i'm glad to see this thread finally stickied!

i got a breedlove too, but mine was $1000, the ad sr25 plus i believe, love it , but now i want a washburn extremely bad, just a cheap on between $200-400, but dont have teh cash to fork over and i just got my breedlove 6 months ago, so i really should be content....i guess i just need to goto a store and play a whole bunch to get this out of my system

[ask_withnail]

i got a breedlove too, but mine was $1000, the ad sr25 plus i believe, love it , but now i want a washburn extremely bad, just a cheap on between $200-400, but dont have teh cash to fork over and i just got my breedlove 6 months ago, so i really should be content....i guess i just need to goto a store and play a whole bunch to get this out of my system

Yeah I'm like you to. I bought a Taylor only a month ago, and though I love it to bits I've got acoustic collecting fever... I want more guitars haha. There's so many nice little gems at my local music store that i'd love to own, and they are cheap compared to the Taylor. I suppose once I get some cashflow i'd start considering them.

[horn82y]

Yeah I'm like you to. I bought a Taylor only a month ago, and though I love it to bits I've got acoustic collecting fever... I want more guitars haha. There's so many nice little gems at my local music store that i'd love to own, and they are cheap compared to the Taylor. I suppose once I get some cashflow i'd start considering them.

yea i know the feeling, but i have to save for college...sigh...

[honkey]

I have the Seagull S6, I just got a 200 dollar pickup put in it. It was my dads and its prolly 5 or 6 years old but I thought it was much more than 360 dollars. It's got it's sure of nicks and everything but wow it still plays awesome. If you were going to spend 300 dollars on a guitar I'd save up for a seagull s6

[recondoc]

I recently picked up one of the Peavy Briarwood Dreadnaught copies. Solid Sitka top, Mahogany back and sides, rosewood fingerboard, sealed tuners that actually hold tune, and a pretty nice job of copying the D28. Paid $38 at a pawnshop. Haven't tried out the electonics yet but no pre-amp installed. Straight undersaddle piezzo.
It ain't no Martin or Taylor but she sounds very rich.

[Chips-]

I just ordered a Yamaha FG730S. I've never played it but I don't think it's a problem. I mean I just played a 300? Ibanez and a 700? Takamine in the store and they sounded pretty much the same.

[Roymond]

For beginners I would suggest this

http://www.ibanez.com/guitars/guitar.asp?model=IJP2S

It is what I started with and it sounds better than the guitars that my friends spent 350 or more on.

[MeThrowRock]

I bought a red "Spruce GT" Art & Lutherie (http://www.artandlutherieguitars.com/) ( $329.99 ) in recent months and I love it, being my first guitar. Its sound is awesome, compared to other "starter" guitars I tried out.

Today, while giving it a wipe-down with a soft cloth, I discovered a small scratch in the front. I will not attempt to buff it out considering its fine, glossy finish. To me, it gives a guitar character - not that it can really be noticed, but in my opinion, every scratch tells a story. Don't ask me how this scratch got there, but I guess I could simply "make up" an extraordinary excuse...

[fsb_ben]

depends wut kinda cloth ur using. I only use microfiber clothes cuz they're guarenteed not to scratch ur surface. Other cloths.. like terry cloth or even tshirts aren't that fine and will scratch ur guitar

[Ekim423]

How is the Epiphone DR 300-S? Ive heard its good, but just wanted someone that has played it's point of view.

[jimtaka]

i got a breedlove too, but mine was $1000, the ad sr25 plus i believe, love it , but now i want a washburn extremely bad, just a cheap on between $200-400, but dont have teh cash to fork over and i just got my breedlove 6 months ago, so i really should be content....i guess i just need to goto a store and play a whole bunch to get this out of my system

that my friend, is my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE guitar for 1000 bucks or less!!

[horn82y]

that my friend, is my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE guitar for 1000 bucks or less!!


the breedlove or the washburn..... and if its the breedlove, i absolutly love it, i just have the urge to buy a new guitar....but i know i dont need one

[poochy]

i was asking what guitar he used in the unplugged version of "man who sold the world".........i was not saying that he used a seagull s6 ..............

He used the same guitar for everything. It was a Martin, 50's acoustic-electric. This was probably answered earlier in the thread but I didn't notice it

[fsb_ben]

Y'kno he had to edit his question cuz it was vague and a grammatical nightmare LOL (the original is in my sig)


Oh and btw, my girlfriend ended up buying the Samick guitar! Sounds very nice.. cedar+rosewood is a very good combination.

[poochy]

Y'kno he had to edit his question cuz it was vague and a grammatical nightmare LOL (the original is in my sig)


Oh and btw, my girlfriend ended up buying the Samick guitar! Sounds very nice.. cedar+rosewood is a very good combination.


His grammer is wonderful!!!! (grammar spelled rong on purpose [wrong spelled wrong on purpose])[/sarcasm]

[jimtaka]

the breedlove or the washburn..... and if its the breedlove, i absolutly love it, i just have the urge to buy a new guitar....but i know i dont need one

i was talking about the breedlove... i absolutely love that guitar

[Chips-]

I picked up my FG730S today from the store and my god this is a beautiful guitar. It sounds awesome. The factory setup was perfect, but I put some Elixir Nanoweb Extra Lights (.10-.47, cost 26? :O) on it, so now it buzzes a little around the first five frets if I strum hard. The original strings were .11s or .12s.

I'm very happy with this guitar. I almost bought an Ibanez E/A but thanks to this thread I changed my mind and got something much better.

[MESAexplorer]

I dunno about your opinions about Epi acoustics but i find they all have an exceptional feel and tone. My uncle has an older washburn acoustic electric and i find it sounds great too, but the action is a tad on the high side...nothing a little sandpaper can't fix.

[s0c13tysuckz]

fender dg-20ce

its acoustic/electric. but nothing really ever compares with fenders . 259.99 too.

[roamingbard13]

fender dg-20ce

its acoustic/electric. but nothing really ever compares with fenders . 259.99 too.


Please put down whatever you've been smoking. Or injecting. Or snorting. Or imbibing. At this point, we would like you to go pick up ANY of the guitars listed at the top of this page and compare it with your Fender. If you really think it sounds better, then a guitar that is more then $200 is a waste on you.

[kpasa01]

^^Ditto. Fender knows electrics but when it comes to acoustics I would rather leave it up to a company that has been making them for years and has put everything into making a great sounding guitar.

[fsb_ben]

fender dg-20ce

its acoustic/electric. but nothing really ever compares with fenders . 259.99 too.


Clearly he's an acoustic noobie, take it easy on him boys :D

[Hawaiiguy]

Takamine G340SC

Does anyone have experience with this guitar?

$250.....

http://www.americanmusical.com/item--i-TAK-G340SC-NT.html

[SomeAznFool90]

Rogue Herringbone Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar

$129.99 @ Musician's Friend [house brand, made in China]

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Rogue-Herringbone-Dreadnought-Cutaway-AcousticElectric-Guitar?sku=519293

Here's some sound clips so you can get an idea of what it sounds like [hosted on FileFactory, you'll have to wait a few seconds for the download]. Yeah, the playing and quality of the recording is not exactly the best [I used the Sound Recorder that comes w/ XP] but thought you should get a rough idea at least.

Clip 1 (http://www.filefactory.com/?5a282c)
Clip 2 (http://www.filefactory.com/?e6b36a)
Clip 3 (http://www.filefactory.com/?dd07ce)

If nothing else, look @ the ratings on the site. For my money [I bought it back before MF jacked all their prices, @ $119.99], it has to be the best bang for the buck I've ever gotten. Personally, I feel I got my money's worth. Granted, this thing was made in China, but it's got active Fishman Electronics [Classic 4, same stuff they use in the cheaper Martin A/Es IIRC], Martin strings [medium, .13-.60], spruce top, & mahogany back & sides. Also, the nut and saddle feel as if they're bone, but I don't know if it's just some material that's been treated to feel like bone, or geniune bone.

Just a suggestion, anyway.

[Scuba-Steve]

Wow, I havnt been here in a while...so I'll just get to the piont of what I was going to ask.

First of all, I am new at guitar..pretty much, I have been playing for about a year and a half...and I wanted to buy a better acoustic. So a pawn shop opened up and they have a guitar in the window. Its a Fender San Marino, it comes with a case, and the clerk s offering 175 for it....it has one little crack in the back, and thats it.

And yes, I know you guys are probably getting ready to tell me fender acoustics suck and what not, and that I shouldnt be looking at pawn shops for a guitar,but I just really wondered if it was a good deal or not...and thats really it...

thanks in advance to those who help me out

[SomeAznFool90]

Eh, get a friend or relative or whatever who's been playing a for bit [maybe a few years?] and get their opinon on it.

Better yet, bring a few friends and get a number of opinions on it.

[fsb_ben]

Takamine G340SC

Does anyone have experience with this guitar?

$250.....

http://www.americanmusical.com/item--i-TAK-G340SC-NT.html


Not a solid top, not worth the $, get a solid top acoustic and mic the guitar = much better sound.


Rogue Herringbone Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar

$129.99 @ Musician's Friend [house brand, made in China]

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Rogue-Herringbone-Dreadnought-Cutaway-AcousticElectric-Guitar?sku=519293

Here's some sound clips so you can get an idea of what it sounds like [hosted on FileFactory, you'll have to wait a few seconds for the download]. Yeah, the playing and quality of the recording is not exactly the best [I used the Sound Recorder that comes w/ XP] but thought you should get a rough idea at least.

Clip 1 (http://www.filefactory.com/?5a282c)
Clip 2 (http://www.filefactory.com/?e6b36a)
Clip 3 (http://www.filefactory.com/?dd07ce)

If nothing else, look @ the ratings on the site. For my money [I bought it back before MF jacked all their prices, @ $119.99], it has to be the best bang for the buck I've ever gotten. Personally, I feel I got my money's worth. Granted, this thing was made in China, but it's got active Fishman Electronics [Classic 4, same stuff they use in the cheaper Martin A/Es IIRC], Martin strings [medium, .13-.60], spruce top, & mahogany back & sides. Also, the nut and saddle feel as if they're bone, but I don't know if it's just some material that's been treated to feel like bone, or geniune bone.

Just a suggestion, anyway.

Its a cheap guitar and if u desperately want an AE for cheap, then sure go for it.. but it definately is not a contender for "best" guitar.


Wow, I havnt been here in a while...so I'll just get to the piont of what I was going to ask.

First of all, I am new at guitar..pretty much, I have been playing for about a year and a half...and I wanted to buy a better acoustic. So a pawn shop opened up and they have a guitar in the window. Its a Fender San Marino, it comes with a case, and the clerk s offering 175 for it....it has one little crack in the back, and thats it.

And yes, I know you guys are probably getting ready to tell me fender acoustics suck and what not, and that I shouldnt be looking at pawn shops for a guitar,but I just really wondered if it was a good deal or not...and thats really it...

thanks in advance to those who help me out

Think about it, u know Fender already makes ****ty acoustics when compared to the competition in its price range.. and ur willing to settle for one with a crack in the back?? Cmon man, ur better off ebaying.

[Hawaiiguy]

Not a solid top, not worth the $, get a solid top acoustic and mic the guitar = much better sound. Ben, thanks for your input, but the ads say that it has a "solid spruce top."

:confused:

[SomeAznFool90]

Not a solid top, not worth the $, get a solid top acoustic and mic the guitar = much better sound.




Its a cheap guitar and if u desperately want an AE for cheap, then sure go for it.. but it definately is not a contender for "best" guitar.




Think about it, u know Fender already makes ****ty acoustics when compared to the competition in its price range.. and ur willing to settle for one with a crack in the back?? Cmon man, ur better off ebaying.

What? This was a best guitar thread?

****, my bad. I thought it was more of a 'what guitars are decent for under 300' kinda thing. Must've missed it.

Thanks for pointing it out though

[fsb_ben]

Ben, thanks for your input, but the ads say that it has a "solid spruce top."

:confused:

LOL sorry. I browsed REALLY quick. Well at least its gotta solid top! Now u just gotta play that guitar along with some other ones to decide if u like the sound. Check for resonance.. bass etc. If it sounds "tinny", thats not a good sign :-)

[JGamble]

As for the Ibanez AW40, it's nice but...

I went to Guitar Center to check it out and I saw one that looked similair. You guys should check out the Fender DG100. It's like the Ibanez but it seems to have a fuller sound and better tuners. It doesn't have the vine inlay, though. The clerk said they were made in the same factory.

I would suggest it, I saw it there for $299.

[jimtaka]

As for the Ibanez AW40, it's nice but...

I went to Guitar Center to check it out and I saw one that looked similair. You guys should check out the Fender DG100. It's like the Ibanez but it seems to have a fuller sound and better tuners. It doesn't have the vine inlay, though. The clerk said they were made in the same factory.

I would suggest it, I saw it there for $299.

imo, they should shut that factory down :D

[JGamble]

imo, they should shut that factory down :D

Maybe, but it seemed like a decent guitar for the money though. Even though you may only be able to get one at GC or used online somewhere. But I know not everyone likes Fender acoustics, just thought I'd add this as being a one up on the AW40 IMO.

[gregorisgod]

Tanglewood TW28-STUA-CE anyone? What's it like? It's the one I'm looking at buying (lefty), and it's solid spruce top, sounded good in the shop etc, only £229.

Can anyone suggest anything similar? I like the cutaway and I'm left handed, which limits my options.

[jimtaka]

Maybe, but it seemed like a decent guitar for the money though. Even though you may only be able to get one at GC or used online somewhere. But I know not everyone likes Fender acoustics, just thought I'd add this as being a one up on the AW40 IMO.

haha, i was just kidding around man. i have played a few fender and ibanez acoustics that sounded pretty decent and maybe even one or two that sounded pretty good. everybody has different tastes :)

[turner1970]

Tanglewood TW28-STUA-CE anyone? What's it like? It's the one I'm looking at buying (lefty), and it's solid spruce top, sounded good in the shop etc, only £229.

Can anyone suggest anything similar? I like the cutaway and I'm left handed, which limits my options.

try a TURNER, www.turnerguitars.com, i picked 1 up for £279, there good value

[Neptune]

Tanglewood TW28-STUA-CE anyone? What's it like? It's the one I'm looking at buying (lefty), and it's solid spruce top, sounded good in the shop etc, only £229.

Can anyone suggest anything similar? I like the cutaway and I'm left handed, which limits my options.

I tried a Fender DG5 earlier and it was okayish. then i went to another shop and picked up a tanglewood TW15 something. it was so much nicer, although i did notice the neck was alot heavier than the body.

I'm thinking of the tanglewood for £150 plus i'll ask the shop assistant to chuck in a gig bag and a tuner if i can get away with it.

[Capitol Murder]

My instructor keeps pushing for me to buy the Art Lutherie guitars and I played his and its ok however I fell for the epiphone humming bird and the a200-s but I have 6 mos in this with aburning passion to play and I am currently using an electric like acoustic guitars but in love with electric guitars."you should think about investing in an acoustic guitar just to take around with you and you can leave the axe home"... he quotes. Cool but its not my cup of tea and now I am lost because I know nothing about these folk guitars HEELP

[mz_as_ace]

Yamaha FG730s definitely..

People always rant on about how great takamine's are.. but the ones under $800 have really sh** build quality.



Word!!!

[jimtaka]

^---- umm ok?? :confus:

[gregorisgod]

Epiphone EJ200? Can anyone give me any feedback on this?

Solid top etc? Searched the web and can't find any clear reviews.

Also more suggestions? Buying an acoustic next week, tried a few and liked a couple... but want more ideas. I'm left handed, greatly limits my selections - only looking at the EJ200 for flipping and restringing because there's one at £199 quid just now. =D

[fsb_ben]

Product Description
The Epiphone EJ-200 is a jumbo-style 6-string acoustic guitar featuring a Maple body, select Spruce top, and body, neck, and headstock binding. Gold hardware and a set Maple neck with a crown inlay on a Rosewood fingerboard make this guitar stunner. Other features include a nut width of 1.68 in. and a 25.5 in. scale. Using a scientifically created finish, select woods, and carefully chosen design elements, Epiphone instruments are designed for nothing less than a lifetime of the finest musical performance.



Sorry dood no solid top. Its a "pretty" guitar which means the beauty is making up for something that the quality is lacking. I wouldn't consider this in the same league as the guitars on the first page.

[GuitarDomain]

I am a big fan of Seagull Acoustics. You can prob grab the S6 cedar model for that price used on ebay or store.

[gregorisgod]

Sorry dood no solid top. Its a "pretty" guitar which means the beauty is making up for something that the quality is lacking. I wouldn't consider this in the same league as the guitars on the first page.

Cheers, exactly the reply I was looking for. :peace:

[Queso]

Well I just went to Guitar Center this past weekend and played both the Yamaha FG700S and the FG730S. I know I was thinking about getting just the FG700S but boy let me suggest that you save up for the FG730S. It's only a hundred bucks more but dam it sounds so much better. The sound is very full, the action is easy to play on, and it's just a really nice guitar. So if you're deciding between the 700 and the 730, save up for the 730.

[jimtaka]

has anybody else played that ibanez aw40nt yet? every time i go up to guitar center i ask to see one and every time they are out.... i really wanna give that thing a strum

[aMeRiCaNsTrAt21]

^^ If by you mean anybody else you mean me as one that has Im not sure. But I know I own one, and this guitar is one of the best bang for the buck deals in this price range. With new strings this thing sings.

EDIT: The thing is beautiful, and hard not to pick up.

[jimtaka]

^--- yeah you were the one person that i knew that has one... i was wondering if anybody else has played it also

[kurushio95]

how about the Ibanez AW20?

[Acoustnaut]

Well i have the alvarez rd20S and all i got to say is that if my 240$ alvarez plays like a 800$ guitar which it does i wanna play a more expensive one lol.

[ysaric]

I am thinking about an Art & Lutherie GT, but can't figure out how to order it at the price listed on the first page of this sticky. The Long & McQuade web site quite frankly sucks. Do you have to buy in person? Is there any online/phone ordering? What are shipping costs? I left them an e-mail but if $250 is going to be listed in the first post of this sticky maybe you could put some more ordering details in :) Is $250 USD? If you can't order it from L&M, what is the best place to order it from online?

Thanks much for any information provided, this thread has been a very interesting read for a guitar n00b.

[fsb_ben]

Yup $250 USD. I think its a guitar u'll have to get from L&M in person. Its a brand new guitar, just released this year so the online ordering sites wont feature it if they havent updated their website.

[ysaric]

Well I'm not driving to Canada (or New York) to pick one of these up, the only place I've found a price listed is $289.99 @ "Daddy's Junky Music" out of New York. I would love to get one, and can probably go up to about $300, but I'm not sure whether it's possible to get them for under $300 in Indiana after you factor in shipping, either to the retailer or if there was a direct online order outfit. Thanks for the info though.

btw how long does it normally take sires to update their inventory online? I would figure for the current model year things would get up pretty quickly, but I'm used to online shopping in areas other than musical instruments.

[fsb_ben]

Hmm... honestly, the golden rule when picking acoustics is "Try before you buy". And if u end up liking another guitar, get that one :p Ordering a guitar in is quite the hassle.. but most places will offer free shipping on a guitar of that price.

[ysaric]

Hmm... honestly, the golden rule when picking acoustics is "Try before you buy". And if u end up liking another guitar, get that one :p Ordering a guitar in is quite the hassle.. but most places will offer free shipping on a guitar of that price.

Thank you very much for the advice. Unfortunately I don't know anything about playing guitars, nor do I have any confidence that me listening to someone else play multiple guitars would at this point mean anything to my rather novice ears. I am, literally, a complete novice looking to make an initial modest investment in a guitar to avoid common pitfalls such as buying a guitar that doesn't sound good, is hard to keep tuned and generally doesn't sound very good thus discouraging me from picking it up to play or practice. Someday maybe I could play some Harry Chapin, if all goes well. My price range is in the $150-$300 area (anywhere from, say, a Washburn D100 for $130 up to the $299 models listed in this thread). My understanding from reading this thread, and other resources, is that these days you can get a decent sounding acoustic guitar for a beginner for $200-$300.

I visited two local shops today, one recommended an Art & Lutherie for about $320 (after doing some reading I could probably talk that down a bit, but I can't remember what model it was) and another shop recommended a Cort for about $250. I'm a pretty plain kind of guy, so how the guitar looks (assuming good worksmanship) basically means nothing to me. My gut likes the A&L; I like how they do business if their web site is credible as to their practices, and if I'm going to spend $300 I'd like to get the GT if I can find it locally for that price or order it online for that price. It sounds like the kind of guitar that I would enjoy learning to play.

**Edit--I contacted musiciansfriend.com via e-mail tonight (no resonse yet) to determine whether the A&L Acoustic Dreadnought they list for $239.99 is the GT or another model and if not whether they are selling the GT but perhaps it is just not listed.

Anyway thanks for reading my situation, if you've gotten this far. I have often found that when getting started (after doing things like using the "search" function) it is best just to lay it all out there and often good, knowledgeable folks have fairly wise things to say that I can listen to and try to absorb.

[fsb_ben]

Well in that case, if ur ears aren't trained.. go to a guitar shop and rate the guitars on how they "feel". Is the action too high (action being height between strings and fretboard)? Does the neck feel too wide/narrow? Can u slide up and down the neck with ease?

[ysaric]

Okay, a couple of points after additional research. First, if you want to order from Long & McQuade and you live in the U.S., don't bother. I looked them up because they are listed in the first post as having the A&L GT for $250. I called the closest store, Toronto, and talked to a guy named Paul who took some information and called me back.

Current price: $295 CDN (at current exchange rated, approx. $266 USD)
Shipping: $160 CDN.

Plus chuck in $70 for the case. I got a quote from a local store to special order the GT for $350 (case included I believe). I think no matter how you look at it, the A&L GT is pushing the bounds of <$300 for everyone but people who live in Canada. I'm on a pretty limited budget this may be just outside of my current upper limit. I'm sure one of the other guitars in the first post will be about as good.

[david.seema]

If you live in the U.S., or even Canada, and you can save up a bit more cash, I would suggest getting a Taylor. I have one, and it is awesome. Check them out at http://www.taylorguitars.com You can get a Big Baby, which is 15/16 the size of a normal guitar, for $528.00 U.S. See if you can't find a dealer.

[jimtaka]

^--- yeah and for $550 you can get a full size guitar from another company that will sound just as good, if not better. irregardless though, this is the UNDER 300 thread :wtf:

[david.seema]

^- I was just giving an alternative, but hey, I guess you were right.

[jimtaka]

^-- no worries :cheers: which taylor do you have?

[david.seema]

I have a Baby, a Big Baby, and some others.

[jimtaka]

^-- a buddy of mine that works as a travel director has a baby taylor that he takes all over the country with him and that thing is sweeeet!

"and some others" <-- how many friggin taylors do you own?

[david.seema]

^-- a buddy of mine that works as a travel director has a baby taylor that he takes all over the country with him and that thing is sweeeet!

"and some others" <-- how many friggin taylors do you own?

I own about 5, all various models. But my Baby is my favourite.

[jimtaka]

how do you own "about" 5 taylors? and what models are they?

[david.seema]

Well, I share some with my step-dad. I have three that are personally mine (a Baby, a Big Baby, and a new T5), and then my step-dad has four (I don't know which models). So instead of buying more guitars for ourselves, my mom said that we have to share because my basement is full of guitars.

[jimtaka]

^-- hahaha that's pretty awesome. how do you like that t5? a friend of mine is a taylor fanatic and has bought 3 of them so far, but he lives across the country so i haven't had a chance to play one yet. he loves them! which t5 do you have?

[elhorn14]

For a guitar under 300$ i would recomend a garrison, they sound good play very well and i personally think they smell good (inside joke with a close friend) i have an Ovation electric acoustic i paid 50 dollars for and i found out its worth over 1500 dollars. So dont knock used guitars, just watch what your buying and know your music.

[jimtaka]

any particular models from garrison that you have experience with and would reccomend?

[elhorn14]

well like i said, it was my friends guitar and i never really took the time to check, so i really have no idea, i suppose your best bet would to just shop around.

[Rycrafter]

I started playing guitar on an Art and Luthrie about 5 years ago, it ran about $245 cdn. It was a great guitar to begin with, however, i have recently added two more acoustics to my collection; both being Crafter guitars.

The Crafter D6/N is a great begginer guitar and has unbelievable sound. The action is pretty impressive for a guitar in the $300 dollar range as well.

They are definately worth checking out!

Oh yah, i totally agree with the Tak comment....under $800 they're not worth it!

[Hawaiiguy]

Anyone have experience with the Washburn D10SCE?

I checked one out the other day at the local shop and was very impressed.

I also am interested in the Takamine G340SC but it isn't available locally.

They're about the same price. The guy at the local shop had some Takamines in the $700 range, but he said he prefers the Washburn D10SCE to those!!

So I have a decision to make - buy the D10SCE which I was able to see and hear firsthand, or go with Takamine's reputation (despite what the guy at the shop said).

What sayeth you guitar sages?

[jimtaka]

i'd go with the guitar that i could play before i bought it myself.... especially considering you don't seem to have been able to even find anybody that has played that tak model.

[Danielj]

Fullerton, it's 100 bucks, and it has a pickup installed. Not bad sounding either.

[Conormck]

A good accoustic thats not ridiculously expensive is a Crusier model By Crafter, i got mine for £120 convert that into dollars if your in The U.S.A im sure it'll come underneath $300. Wont it?

[rseper182]

i got the yamaha fg700s let me tell u for 200 this guitar is a steel everything on it is durable it stays in tune the tone and sound of this guitar is out of this world it provides a deep rich full sound that should be coming from a 500+ dollar guitar definate buy

[fsb_ben]

^ nice. Thats the best bang for the buck guitar out right now IMO.

Just a reminder to people suggesting other guitars. Please include:

a) Make and model of guitar (ex. Yamaha FG700s)
b) Price and source ($199 @ musiciansfriend.com)
c) Picture of the guitar.

[Smacked]

I didn't want to make a new thread for this so I think I can ask it here...
I recently played around with some acoustic/electric guitars at my local Guitar Center and I found Ovation guitars have a great sound/feel and I'm thinking about buying one, but here's my problem. I played 3 or 4 different models ranging in price from $299 - $999 I did fell and hear some difference, but it didn't seem big enough to make to much difference down the line seeing as all I'm really looking for is a guitar to mess around on in my spare time and something that can travel easy (already have my fair share of electrics). So finally my question is it worth buying a $600 or $1000 guitar when I can get similar sound and feel from a $300 one? If you read all that, thanks.:)

[pinholes89]

The Takamine GS330s are BY FAR the best out of this lot and any other lot of acoustic guitars. I went to Guitar Center yesterday and tried out almost every guitar there, acoustics ranging from $200 to $900, and trust me when I say that that this GS330s is the best out of any of these guitars I've tried and is definately great for the price. Its resonance and tone are amazing. I bought it immediatly.

[Dublo7]

What about an Epiphone DR-100?
I'm thinking of maybe picking one up. Cheap as hell, and people seem to say decent things about them.
Anyone had any experience with these?

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Epiphone-DR100-Acoustic-Guitar-?sku=518569&src=3SOSWXXA

[jjbennett]

Can anyone suggest a good (real wood) electro acustic for under $300. Preferably one without a cut away and most definately not bowlback. I made another thread but that was locked but im looking for an ELECTRO acoustic and this thread seems to be a acoustic thread.

So far ive come up with a yamaha apx 5a, although its not ideal as i prefer 000 shape bodies and no cut aways.

Can you guys help me?

Thankyou,
J.

[Chips-]

^ If you mean all solid wood, then I'm afraid you'll have to spend at least $700.

[jjbennett]

Yeah sorry, i meant with at least a solid top, laminate sounds tosh.

[fsb_ben]

all the guitars mentioned on the first page are solid tops. if ur looking for a decent solid top A/E, then ur looking @ prices around $700 (give or take some)

[AdamDK]

Not sure if this guitar has been mentioned, but I have a Encore E402B Steel String Acoustic which cost me £80 from my local store, and it has a nice sound to it. So if your looking for a very cheap guitar with a good sound, pick up the Encore E402B.

[LilVikingboy]

I know just about nothing when it comes to acoustic(or basically electric as well) guitars...but I want to buy one and when searching(before I found this thread) I found 2 that stood out. Mostly in looks than anything else. So I figured I'd ask if they were even remotely worth my time or money.

Ibanez DTME Daytripper Acoustic-Electric - http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/buy_ibanez_dtme_daytripper_acousticelectric_guitar?full_sku=519709%2e012

Fender Dreadnought -
http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product?full_sku=103574919

EDIT: I noticed the Yamaha FG700 went up $50. Does anybody know why? And also, it's overall rating seems to be higher than the FG730. So would the 700 be a better choice than the 730?

[Chris?]

After reading the advice on this thread and trying some guitars out in the shop I went for a Yamaha FG730s. I love the guitar which plays like a dream (looks good too), I'd recommend it to anyone. :D

[punk_poser]

People always rant on about how great takamine's are.. but the ones under $800 have really sh** build quality.

takamine's aren't that great really, my friend's uncle is in the music industry and he has a $900 Takamine but he said that my $600 Cort is better anyway!

And whatever you do, DO NOT get Ibanez!!! I was playing one of those $350 Ibanez Acoustics the other day and it didn't sound any better then my first crappy $100 practice guitar from cash converters! They are really quiet too and just not a pleasant guitar.

Probably the best bet for a cheaper guitar is Yamaha... Cort is another excellent brand although I'm not sure about the quality of the less expensive ones.

[KalRaynor]

well im starting a class for Acoustic but i like Electric better so i though i would get an Elctro Acoustic both so i can learn Acousticf and when i want play electric at least i think how that works not sure im new to this but wht do u experts suggest get an acoustic first and a electric later or just get both in 1 electroacoustic il doubt il ever get the electric im on a super tight budget like 200-300

[roamingbard13]

^It doesn't really work that way, an acoustic electric will not work the same way as an electric. If you're on a tight budget, you're probably better off with an acoustic. Any of them at the top of this thread are worthy of your $300.

[KalRaynor]

i see thanks well umm than which do u recommend i guess most important thing for me is sound i guess electric will have ot wait a few years

well which do u guys recommend

[Rhonlynn]

I have that Yamaha, I wanted an inexpensive guitar, a Yamaha, and that's the the one i chose. I love it.

[mcease]

What do you think of the Washburn D10 SDL? It is the Deluxe version of the D10s. Anyone played one of these?

[savagerules]

im lookin for a good acoustic guitar but with access to the higher frets like this one http://www.jayturser.com/images/JTA-SQCE-sm.jpg

[hysteric]

After reading this thread i bought a Yamaha FG730-S (tobacco sunburst) and i love it! Before that my accoustic was something i got from ebay, 80? including shipping, a tuner and a bag. Theres no way to describe how much better the Yamaha sounds :p Looks great too!

[fuzzypicklez]

could someone tell me how this guitar is? I have been recently thinking of buying my first acoustic guitar.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Dean-Exotica-FM-AcousticElectric-Guitar?sku=519828

[roamingbard13]

The reviews seem pretty poor on it, and it is all laminated wood. I would look at the guitars listed in the first part of this thread, and pick from them. They don't have electronics in them, but you'll get a guitar that actually sounds good.

[fuzzypicklez]

thanks :cheers:

[fuzzypicklez]

what about this one?

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Epiphone-PR6E-AcousticElectric-Guitar?sku=518680

[octavian]

What do you think of the Washburn D10 SDL? It is the Deluxe version of the D10s. Anyone played one of these?
Yeah I have. It's a comfortable guitar to play but I persoanlly just don't like it's tone. Thats just my personal preferance though, you would have to hear one yourself.

[skinnygav]

does anyone know if any of these models are available left handed, or any other lefty guitars in the price range that are worth considering?

currently i have a choice of 1, the Yamaha FG720SL

http://www.dolphinmusic.co.uk/page/shop/flypage/product_id/10099

[flogrock]

what would be a good wood choice for a bassy/midrangey warm sound? i have a hohner starter guitar that, when i strum hard, turns the 4 bass strings into mush and the high e is kind of stinging--i dont know really how to describe it. maybe its just my playing?

[Queso]

I also just recently purchased a Yamaha FG730S and absolutely love it. I have zero complaints and definitely recommend it. If you're thinking about purchasing the FG720S I suggest that you save up the extra hundred bucks for the FG730S because the difference between the two is well worth the extra cash. Although the FG750S is indeed better sounding than the FG730S, I don't believe the difference is worth the hundred bucks. Yay for Yamaha. Happy shopping!

[Rianne]

http://www.deanguitars.com/bnds_v1/espana_classical_cscr.htm

has anyone this guitar or played it ??

i absolutely loved playing it but i want some of yours opinions about it


:peace:

[garyo1954]

Bought this for my son. Nice feel, nice sound. I even enjoyed playing it.

http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/buy_fender_dg8s_acoustic_guitar_value_pack?full_sku=102464096

[cfleming71]

i have a washburn d10s and its one of the best guitars i have bought, and its still sounds great and it still has original strings. and i paid $230

[chilianlaxer]

I have a Silvertone Archtop Guitar from around the 1940's. everything on it is still the original except for a few scratches from over the years. Does any one know about how much a guitar like this would go for these days?

[Chigger Fruit]

I use a Samick D-5 BCE which i wrote about in this topic: http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/forum/showpost.php?p=6836654&postcount=35

[Chips-]

I use a Samick D-5 BCE which i wrote about in this topic: http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/forum/showpost.php?p=6836654&postcount=35
I'm sorry.. What? All solid wood electric acoustic for under $300? You must be mistaken.

[Chigger Fruit]

Nope, i checked the grain of the wood, it matches from front to back.

[fsb_ben]

u cant tell if its solid wood from the grain man :p and i highly doubt its solid back and sides.. seeing as how the entire D5 series is laminate back n sides

[Chigger Fruit]

Hmm, i thought i read somewhere that's how you tell if it's solid. And i doubt that the D5's are laminate, at least for the back because it's clearly made of 2 solid bookmatch pieces, unless laminates come in something like that?

[Dilweed]

Are there any half-decent guitars for 100? Like an Epiphone or something? Because I can't find any Yamahas for $100 USD...

[fsb_ben]

Hmm, i thought i read somewhere that's how you tell if it's solid. And i doubt that the D5's are laminate, at least for the back because it's clearly made of 2 solid bookmatch pieces, unless laminates come in something like that?

Well when the Greg Bennett website tells u its laminate, i think its something you should believe

http://www.samickguitar.com/acousticportal_worthington.html

[Chigger Fruit]

Well when the Greg Bennett website tells u its laminate, i think its something you should believe

http://www.samickguitar.com/acousticportal_worthington.html
Where does it say that they're laminate?

[fsb_ben]

when it doesnt say its solid, its laminate. thats the rule of thumb for shopping for guitars.

[moe_d]

Some acoustic guitars that have bookmatched back can be laminate because they only bookmatch one of the pieces in the laminate just for the looks. Same with laminate top.

[Negative Burn]

Thanks for making this thread. I recently purchased a new acoustic guitar, I tried out a couple of the guitars in this thread, and I decided on the Takamine GS330s. :)

[jimtaka]

Hmm, i thought i read somewhere that's how you tell if it's solid. And i doubt that the D5's are laminate, at least for the back because it's clearly made of 2 solid bookmatch pieces, unless laminates come in something like that?

basically, yeah laminates come in "something like that." they can and do make laminate guitars that look like just about anything you can imagine.

http://www.deanguitars.com/bnds_v1/espana_classical_cscr.htm

has anyone this guitar or played it ??

i absolutely loved playing it but i want some of yours opinions about it


:peace:

i haven't played it... BUT cedar top with rosewood back and sides is my favorite combination of tone woods... and that fishman is a nice pickup.

im lookin for a good acoustic guitar but with access to the higher frets like this one http://www.jayturser.com/images/JTA-SQCE-sm.jpg

are you looking for an acoustic-electric or just an acoustic? is it safe to assume that your price range is $300 or could you swing say $500?

[jimtaka]

sorry for the double post........

so i was at guitar center today and they FINALLY had an Ibanez AW40-NT ($299.99) in stock. for several months now i have been wanting to play one of these because somebody reccomended it really highly a few pages back. this guitar actually sounds pretty dang good. i was surprised. it is definitely an extremely attractive instrument, which is pretty common for the Art Wood line by Ibanez, but this is the first one i've played that sounded worth a crap really. anyway, long story short... here's another good review of the Ibanez AW40-NT.

[zeppelinpage4]

Well for that classic rock sound mainly Zeppelin and Pink Floyd and other various bands what sort of guitar should I be looking for?

Also I saw these taylor baby guitars and they seem to be under $300.00 are they any good? Or is the small size a problem. I would prefer a standard size acoustic.

[roamingbard13]

That Taylor is not any good.

[jimtaka]

the baby taylors are good guitars... but not for an "all the time" guitar. if you do alot of traveling, especially on airplanes, the baby taylor would be a great addition to any collection.... but you certainly shouldn't buy a baby taylor to play all the time. i'm guessing that you haven't ever seen one. it's quite small!

[zeppelinpage4]

No acutally I have played one and know how small it is, but I just need an acoustic and need some recommendations.But if the taylor is not a good acoustic that suits my needs I won't get it.

Like I said before I like to play classic rock and that folk like guitar Jimmy plays, and Pink Floyd, other stuff to. I guess don't just want to limit myself to those bands. However that's what i'm mainly into.

And yes I need an all the time guitar this is my first and only acoustic for a little while.

[LilVikingboy]

I play probably 80+% Floyd and I got the A&L on the first page. Sounds great, feels great. I'd reccomend it.

[zeppelinpage4]

I just got the Ibanez aw100nt and would like some opinions on it. I paid $350.00 and got a free deluxe gig bag with it.

[greggybhoy]

Well for that classic rock sound mainly Zeppelin and Pink Floyd and other various bands what sort of guitar should I be looking for?

Also I saw these taylor baby guitars and they seem to be under $300.00 are they any good? Or is the small size a problem. I would prefer a standard size acoustic.

Is it the baby or big baby you're talking about?

The Big Baby is around £300 here in the UK. It's a 15/16 size dreadnought and is more or less a full size acoustic. I stupidly sold mine for beer money for a holiday to Ibiza, and won't be able to afford another as I'm moving out (again!). I bought mine used from my cousin for £170.

I personally thought it was good, but I didn't like the tuners, and the strings I had on it were garbage.

There are other solid top acoustics that are cheaper and IMO, better. Try a Yamaha FG720s (Think that's right!)

[Buffyverse]

http://www.zzounds.com/item--WASWD18SW

[fsb_ben]

oo very nice, definate contender.. has ne1 verified its sound and played this guitar?

[BkandGt]

Hey guys, what's the difference between the Alvarez RD8 and the Alvarez RD20S? They're similar in price and I noticed that the RD20S is mentioned here but not the RD8.

I also haven't seen much talk about the Alvarez's in this thread, but I'm assuming they are pretty good since one is included in the first post and the reviews on MF seem pretty good. Are they just less popular here, or not as good?

My second choice right now would be the Yamaha FG700S because I'd like to keep the price as close to $300 as possible including gig bag, strings, etc. Would the Alvarez be better than the Yamaha FG700S? How would the Alvarez RD8 compare to the Yamaha? I'm mostly interested in playing pop and folk type music. You know, the wimpy stuff ;)

[fsb_ben]

RD8 no solid top, RD20S = solid top. Yamaha 700s = owns both of them in my opinion

[BkandGt]

RD8 no solid top, RD20S = solid top. Yamaha 700s = owns both of them in my opinion

How so?

[fsb_ben]

go play one :-) its all preference newayz.. but the yamaha FG's were redesigned and rereleased in 2005, so they're all upgraded w/ the latest goodies

[GrimReaperMort]

I'd go with Epiphone on this for $150 and the Squier guitar by Fender for $100. But sadly the Squier only has 20 frets on each string, not including the 21st nearlly unplayable fret. If you are new at guitars like me then those are your top choices :).

[fsb_ben]

I'd go with Epiphone on this for $150 and the Squier guitar by Fender for $100. But sadly the Squier only has 20 frets on each string, not including the 21st nearlly unplayable fret. If you are new at guitars like me then those are your top choices :).

*shakes head*

[jimtaka]

^-- hahahaha.

has anyone played that wasburn wd18sw yet?

http://www.zzounds.com/item--WASWD18SW

all solid wood guitar for $300.... washburn is a good brand, but that just seems retardedly cheap for an all solid wood guitar. anybody have any experience with sapele as a soundboard? i don't recall ever playing a guitar with a sapele top.

[fsb_ben]

^-- hahahaha.

has anyone played that wasburn wd18sw yet?

http://www.zzounds.com/item--WASWD18SW

all solid wood guitar for $300.... washburn is a good brand, but that just seems retardedly cheap for an all solid wood guitar. anybody have any experience with sapele as a soundboard? i don't recall ever playing a guitar with a sapele top.

y'know im wondering the same thing. that washburn looks like the martin im thinking of getting.. $300 is insanely cheap for an all-solid-wooder

[tele150322]

ive got the takamine g series and i love it. i went with my buddy to guitar center and we went around and tried out the most expensive guitars in the acoustic. in the end i decided to try out a takamine like mine, and i liked it so much more than any of the other ones there. it might just be because im used to it or something, but theres something about the tone that i just love. i dont think i could ever part with it

I'd go with Epiphone on this for $150 and the Squier guitar by Fender for $100. But sadly the Squier only has 20 frets on each string, not including the 21st nearlly unplayable fret. If you are new at guitars like me then those are your top choices :).
im not sure, but i think this kid just suggested a squier as a top chioce guitar, i played one and the frets cut my fingers when i moved up and down the fretboard

[skinnygav]

^-- hahahaha.

has anyone played that wasburn wd18sw yet?

http://www.zzounds.com/item--WASWD18SW

all solid wood guitar for $300.... washburn is a good brand, but that just seems retardedly cheap for an all solid wood guitar. anybody have any experience with sapele as a soundboard? i don't recall ever playing a guitar with a sapele top.

Its only a solid top isnt it? not all solid?

edited, sorry it is all solid. It doesnt seem to be available in the UK, well none of the websites seem to have it listed anyway.

[boobthaclown]

OVATION nuff said

[zeppelinpage4]

What's the difference between the Ibanez aw40nt and the other guitars of the aw series? I own the aw100 and wanted to know how they ranged and I recommend this guitar to anyone. It's an extra $50 more than the aw40nt, but it sounds great. IMO. Anyways just wondering why the 40 is on there but the other guitars in the series aren't is the aw40nt the best?

[fsb_ben]

What's the difference between the Ibanez aw40nt and the other guitars of the aw series? I own the aw100 and wanted to know how they ranged and I recommend this guitar to anyone. It's an extra $50 more than the aw40nt, but it sounds great. IMO. Anyways just wondering why the 40 is on there but the other guitars in the series aren't is the aw40nt the best?

I dont know, go to the guitar store and let us know what u find! The reason its on there is because it was suggested to us by a person on this forum that actually owns it.

[jimtaka]

if the 100 is $50 more than the 40, then it is above $300.... so that would be the reason why it wouldn't be in this thread.

[Dublo7]

What do you guys think of the ibanez AW10?

[packsox4]

anything takamine G series is great quality and it sounds awesome...deep acoustic tone..nice :)

[Pierpont]

I don't know if it's been posted here or not but oh well..

Alvarez RM 20 SM is a AWSOME guitar for under 300. @ musicians friend I payed 274.99 shipped for guitar capo and sling.

It's mahogany and a folk guitar so it's sound is really crisp and clean and bright. The one I got turned out to be a deep red mahogany and with the silver strings and trim is just looks beautiful. The sound on it is amazing and for a solid top and mahogany sides for 230ish by it'self is a good deal!

[funkdaddyfresh]

i very seriously doubt it falls in this price range but does anyone know if epiphone does a version of a Gibson J-185?

[fsb_ben]

I don't know if it's been posted here or not but oh well..

Alvarez RM 20 SM is a AWSOME guitar for under 300. @ musicians friend I payed 274.99 shipped for guitar capo and sling.

It's mahogany and a folk guitar so it's sound is really crisp and clean and bright. The one I got turned out to be a deep red mahogany and with the silver strings and trim is just looks beautiful. The sound on it is amazing and for a solid top and mahogany sides for 230ish by it'self is a good deal!

link us please

[bama]

i bought that same takamine off line and returned it the next day. its a piece of sh**. its a pretty guitar but its sound is to dull and it doesnt have good sustain. i traded for an ibanez and was much happier but i have sold that now. and bought a martin. but i kinda wish i hadnt because now im scared to take the martin out of the house. its to nice for me. im a little rough on guitars.

[nookie_nick]

Hi guys, I've been following this thread for awhile now and trying to hunt down those guitars people recommended in the few stores near me with little success. One store said they can order the Ibanez AW40NT and the Yamaha FG730s for me but I'd have to buy them (without trying). I had my heart set on the FG730s but I got a little worried when i read that the neck is thinner than the average I think I'd have trouble with that and the AW40NT is well... a little too flamboyant I think.
Another store has the Washburn D10s in stock which as soon as I get time I'll check out but I'm trying to figure out the difference between that and the D30s which can also be ordered.

Bottom line is I'm a hobbyist and I'd like a decent steel-string acoustic that would have lasting value that I can one day pass on to my son 20 years from now, like my dad did to me. I've been researching and pulling my hair out over this for over a month now, any advice?
Thanks! :cheers:

[fsb_ben]

Hi guys, I've been following this thread for awhile now and trying to hunt down those guitars people recommended in the few stores near me with little success. One store said they can order the Ibanez AW40NT and the Yamaha FG730s for me but I'd have to buy them (without trying). I had my heart set on the FG730s but I got a little worried when i read that the neck is thinner than the average I think I'd have trouble with that and the AW40NT is well... a little too flamboyant I think.
Another store has the Washburn D10s in stock which as soon as I get time I'll check out but I'm trying to figure out the difference between that and the D30s which can also be ordered.

Bottom line is I'm a hobbyist and I'd like a decent steel-string acoustic that would have lasting value that I can one day pass on to my son 20 years from now, like my dad did to me. I've been researching and pulling my hair out over this for over a month now, any advice?
Thanks! :cheers:

That store is bull****, if they wont order in for you, then thats garbage customer service. The messed up thing about guitars is you could have (for example), 2 yamaha FG730s's and they wont sound completely the same. U should book a day where u take a field trip to a LARGE music store (that has the majority of guitars u wanna try out) and spend a day trying out the guitars.

[Pierpont]

link us please

Here (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Alvarez-Regent-Series-RF20SM-Mahogany-Folk-Acoustic-Guitar?sku=518724) is the link for the guitar

[fsb_ben]

i dunno man, it only got 8's across the board from MF (usually MF's ratings are ridiculously high)

[bama]

try buying one online from guitar center or music 123 or musicfriends. once you get it you have about 45 days to send it back and trade it; if your not satisfied. you can do that as many times as you want.
and since guitars are generally cheaper online you can go to a shop, find the one you want, and then go online to buy it. you'll usually save around 100 dollars depending on the price of the guitar. you could even save more than that. Just a suggestion. thats what i did for my martin i bought and saved around 400 dollars.

[roamingbard13]

^ That used to be the case. You'll only save a bucks over most stores now, and its the difference between tax and shipping. My guitar actually cost less during a store sale then I could get it online for. You're truly better off buying guitars from a shop who can set them up for you and ensure you're happy. Plus you can play the actual guitar you're buying first. I've done it both ways now, and I go with my local shop every time.

[laureth02]

Yamaha FG730s definitely..

People always rant on about how great takamine's are.. but the ones under $800 have really sh** build quality.

I have a Takamine Jasmine, im not sure how long ago it was made, but it was my dad's guitar about 20 years ago maybe? It is worth $99 last time i checked and its pretty good actually. But its the only guitar I've known other than my girlfreind's guitars. So I like it.

[Made Of Metal]

I recommend the Walden Natura series. I got a G570 with a solid cedar top on ebay for $200 shipped. amazingly loud and sexy guitar. sounds so good for pingerpicking too.

[fuzzypicklez]

Alright I live in Canada thus A&L, S&P, Seagull and Norman guitars are cheap and accesible. The question is If I choose to get one of these which brand should I go with in terms of sound and quality keeping in mind the $300ish maximum.

[bama]

i've only played the seagull and they sound pretty good.

[fsb_ben]

Alright I live in Canada thus A&L, S&P, Seagull and Norman guitars are cheap and accesible. The question is If I choose to get one of these which brand should I go with in terms of sound and quality keeping in mind the $300ish maximum.

They're all made by Godin so in terms of quality, they'r pretty much the same. Sound on the other hand, is subjective so ur gonna have to find one that u like. Then, decide on which guitar feels the most comfortable to play.

[Ben_H]

im gonna have about £320 joint b-day nd x-mas, nd i live in wales (which is in britain for those who dont know) so i was wonderin which brands or styles of guitar would be best for me....

p.s. im 15 been playin for two years and i like fingerpicking songs. ATM i have got an electric guitar, an ESP LTD AX-50

[MrCarrot]

Hey guys, I have a budget of around £100 and I'm looking for an Acoustic just to practice on really....Been playing Electric for about a year solid, and I play mostly blues/jazz type music.

I was looking at the:

Fender CD-60
Epiphone AJ-100
Ibanez V70
Yamahe F310

So yeah, that sorta price range...Absolute MAX £100, just looking for the nicest playing one really, if it sounds good then that's a bonus too.

[bama]

yamaha or epiphone but you can get that ibanez jam pack for 100 at guitarcenter.com it comes with a bunch of extra stuff

[Dublo7]

Yesterday I purchased a Yamaha FG700s for 300 dollars, in Australia.
I don't know what else I could ask for in a guitar. It sounds amazing, and is built exceptionally well.

I'd highly recommend it.

[Crazytrain_8201]

Yeah i got this crazy guitar for only 200$ canadian(including taxes and sofcase) and it sounds as good as a 300$ takamine or alvarez or w/e. Its a Segovia D-1SN and i havent seen anywhere another guitar like mine. I bought it at St.Georges QC for those who wanted to know. ANd yeah Seagulls are really good guitars...as good as gibson.

[rhtchilipepper]

hey guys, ive only been playing acoustic guitar for about a year now....i have a fender acoustic guitar....im not sure what kind, but im looking to upgrade...but i need a decently priced guitar...i am looking for an acoustic-electric, and i heard the Ibanez V Series V70CE Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar was good....but idk...can anyone help me with this, or give more suggestions on good, affordable acoustic-electrics?
you can see that ibanez here http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/buy_ibanez_v70ce_acousticelectric_guitar?full_sku=102567492

[skinnygav]

hey guys, ive only been playing acoustic guitar for about a year now....i have a fender acoustic guitar....im not sure what kind, but im looking to upgrade...but i need a decently priced guitar...i am looking for an acoustic-electric, and i heard the Ibanez V Series V70CE Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar was good....but idk...can anyone help me with this, or give more suggestions on good, affordable acoustic-electrics?
you can see that ibanez here http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/buy_ibanez_v70ce_acousticelectric_guitar?full_sku=102567492

I'm not recommending this guitar as i have never played it but it may be worth a look.

it is the electro acoustic version of the washburn d10s that is on the first page of this thread.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Washburn-D10SCE-Cutaway-AcousticElectric?sku=515325

[jimtaka]

hey guys, ive only been playing acoustic guitar for about a year now....i have a fender acoustic guitar....im not sure what kind, but im looking to upgrade...but i need a decently priced guitar...i am looking for an acoustic-electric, and i heard the Ibanez V Series V70CE Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar was good....but idk...can anyone help me with this, or give more suggestions on good, affordable acoustic-electrics?
you can see that ibanez here http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/buy_ibanez_v70ce_acousticelectric_guitar?full_sku=102567492

for $200, that guitar is probably going to be just as good as anything else you will find. you aren't going to find exceptional tone in a $200 acoustic-electric. do try to get to a store and play one before you buy it.

[Yeparrothead]

I personally play a Fender DG-10 Left Handed Acoustic. It was my first guitar, and I couldn't be any happier with it. Great tone, stays in-tune, and it's a great looking guitar. And for the $250 I payed (At Musicians Friend), it was a great deal :D

[gunther_sucks]

I just got a Washburn WD18SW and it is the best acoustic I have ever played. Sounds incredible, and I saved $90 because it had a small dent in the front.

Overall this guitar sounds and plays amazing, and it is the most attractive acoustic I have ever seen. It just feels right in my hands, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a nice rich tone.

http://www.samedaymusic.com/product--WASWD18SW

[caz_guitar_dude]

Hey.
Any suggestions for a folky, mellow and rich sounding acoustic?

[Hawaii69]

I second (or third, I've probably posted in here before) the Alvarez RD20S.
It just sounds awesome. Really full tone, bright without sounding tinny.

Everyone I know who has played around with it is very impressed with it,
especially for under $300. I've been playing for a little over two years,
and haven't outgrown it at all. I'm not great. I don't do much picking
at all, and I'm just really getting the hang of doing decent sounding
barre chords, but I can fake it well enough for people to label me a
"guitar player" :p:

I'd like to upgrade the tuners to somthing a bit tighter, and get a real "bone"
(whatever it actually is) bridge and nut, but other than that....this guitar
is really a keeper.

If I ever get to the point where I feel like I can justify spening $1000 or more
on an acoustic, I doubt I'll get tid of this one. I'll keep it around for when
I want to take a guitar to the beach without having to worry too much about
wrecking it.

[fsb_ben]

Hey.
Any suggestions for a folky, mellow and rich sounding acoustic?

Yes, all the guitars on the front page :p:

[Spaceman_Spiff]

Would the Ibanez AW40 be a good guitar for someone whose been playing electric for 2 years and is looking for his first acoustic?

[Gazza33]

I played a Takamine G330s and a Yamaha FG750s last weekend. The Takamine I was rather disappointed with. Too dull a tone for me and the neck and action didn't feel perfect.

The FG750s was beautiful on the other hand. Superb fast and thin neck, good action, with a bassy but clear tone.

[fsb_ben]

the FG750s is beautiful but unfortunately, out of this price range. However, the same craftsmanship and quality is found in the FG700s, 720s and 730s.

[fsb_ben]

Would be be possible to up the image limit on the first page of this thread? We've reached the 10 img limit for that post :-( Or can I somehow post another post right underneath it?

edt: Just added teh Washburn WD18SW btw and changed the price for some of the guitars.

[nclapper]

Excellent thread. Wish I found it earlier. Thanks to all who contributed.

Can anyone help me whittle this list down further? I was set to spend $400 on a Seagull S6 when I decided it was more prudent to spend under $300 until I knew my 16 yr old son was committed to playing. He is currently messin with a Kmart quality guitar (<$50).

Some info to help. Surprise Christmas gift for my son (16, playing less than 3 months, 5' 7", 145), LEFTY, plays mostly classic rock but also soft rock, pop. Looking for good value, appealing to a teenage boy, easy to play (can get it set-up by a local luthier), available in a LEFTY and readily in stock, etc. The LEFTY requirement may whittle this list down quickly.

I like the Alvarez RD20 but was told last night that they break down fast? I am not a musician and could not really tell much difference in local stores. Each one was "pushing" whatever was in their inventory and there were only a few leftys in stock to see even at large guitar stores.

Any help with the pros/cons based on the above info is much appreciated:

 Takamine gs330s ($299 @ musiciansfriend.com)
 Alvarez RD20s ($229.99 - $239.99 @ musiciansfriend.com):
 Art & Lutherie GT ($250 @ Long&McQuade)
 Yamaha FG730s ($299.99 @ musiciansfriend.com)
 Washburn D10s ($179.95 black color @ zzounds.com / $199.99 natural color @ musiciansfriend.com)
 Washburn WD18s ($299.95 @ zzounds.com)
 Washburn D30s ($299.99 @ musiciansfriend.com)
 Ibanez AW40NT ($299.99 @ musiciansfriend.com)
 Samick Beaumont ($252 @ music123.com)

Thanks,
M

[roamingbard13]

Of that list you have here, I really don't think you can beat the Washburn D10S for price vs. quality.

[fsb_ben]

In terms of quality and sound, I believe the Yamaha FG730s is top dog. In terms of "most bang for buck" guitar, the Washburn d10s or Yamaha FG700s. But yeah, if you have $400 to spend, go ahead and get the FG730s, you won't be disappointed (Or even the FG750s if your son likes a bassier sound).

[nclapper]

Any comments on this online vendor www.geartree.com?

They have a Seagull S6 LH for $335 with free ground shipping. Seems like a good price.

[roamingbard13]

I don't know...I've neer used them. But their prices are up to a $100 lower then other retailers for stuff...it would make me wary.

[nclapper]

I found reviews on PriceGrabber and there overall rating was not impressive.

http://www.pricegrabber.com/rating_getreview.php/r=2777/

[Double Basser]

After a guitar that will sound good in open tuning (CGCGCE), Pups a must have

this is for my guitarist

a 12 would be a bonus

[Hawaii69]

. I like the Alvarez RD20 but was told last night that they break down fast?


Don't know about that. I've had an RD20S for almost 2 years, and i've had
zero problems with it. I'd like to get a "bone" bridge piece for it, since
the smaller strings leaves some notches in the plastic one, but that's
common to all cheaper guitars from what I know.

I've never wanted to change anything else about this one. It sounds GREAT.