Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

[Eamonn]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

What's different about the vintage sound? My gut reaction would be that it would sound more bluegrassy or early country.

"Vintage Sound" (in terms of Dreads) usually applies to the original of the species = a Martin D-28, aka Banjo Killer.

"Modern Sound" (Dreads also) usually means more balanced and less boomy.

 

[beandip]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

I think that we'd both agree that at this point in time for Steve, there's no need to worry about vintage and modern tone. Right now, he just needs good tone be it new or old. Really, out of the list I gave, plus a few others that can only be had through small dealers or ebay, he can't go wrong with any of the choices. As he grows in the acoustic world, then he track down "The One".

 

[Stevo 42]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

I'll be hitting a local store this week to play, play, play. I know that whatever feels good and sounds good to me right now may not be the best choice long-term. That's part of why I have a fairly low price range. Thanks for the help, guys.

 

[beandip]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

Good luck, say hi to my old stomping grounds for me

 

[Eamonn]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

I think that we'd both agree that at this point in time for Steve, there's no need to worry about vintage and modern tone. Right now, he just needs good tone be it new or old. Really, out of the list I gave, plus a few others that can only be had through small dealers or ebay, he can't go wrong with any of the choices. As he grows in the acoustic world, then he track down "The One".

The one piece of advice I would give is avoid GC and similar walmartish type operations. Try the local craigslist first. A used Guild D4 can be found for roughly $300 and they are a great guitar - plus they are built in the USA.

 

[beandip]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

The one piece of advice I would give is avoid GC and similar walmartish type operations. Try the local craigslist first. A used Guild D4 can be found for roughly $300 and they are a great guitar - plus they are built in the USA.

I suggested stores and new for several reasons. He doesn't have to worry about hidden damages that a dishonest seller on CL might try to hide. Unless you're savvy in acoustics, shopping for a used one can be a daunting task. The manufacturers warranty is still available, as is knowing that the guitar's in good shape.

It's just like buying anything used, unless you've done extensive research, it's probably a good idea to buy new the first go round.

 

[Stevo 42]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

I will hit a couple of local stores that are as big as GC but not GC. I need to play a bunch to figure out what I like. Although I like the idea of going used and may still try that route, I can definitely see myself falling in love with one of the new ones while trying them out. There's safety in that, too. If I find a used one from CL, I'll have nothing to compare it to. We'll see. If I try several Martin's DX-1s and love them all, I'll feel more comfortable going used. Same with Seagull or whatever.

 

[beandip]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

Steve, I just searched through all 30 days worth of postings on the Houston CL. I didn't find anything worth writing home about. Well, I take that back. 2 vintage Martins, some Taylors, and the like, but none within your price range.

There is however a new DX1 here in Dallas for 350. That, IMO, would be well worth the drive.

 

[Eamonn]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

CL is all about timing. Early Saturday mornings are always best because there are more listings then and most musicians are still in bed. A quick phone call and a twenty minute drive at 8am could land you a guitar for about half of what the big box stores charge.

 

[darnright]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

If you can find one of the MIJ Takamines that look like old Martins (square headstock and "Martin-like" script saying Takamine....play it and if it sounds good and the price is under $600 buy it!! great guitars for the money!! I have owned and played 6 Martins in my lifetime and no Taylors....I wouldn't choose one over the other. The Martin probably will sound a little better playing bluegrass and the taylor usually is easier to fingerpick. I had a friend that was a Martin dealer, so I had Martins. If he'd sold Taylors..who knows. There are good and bad guitars in every brand. Go pick up some acoustics and play. Then play another...and another...etc...you will know when you find the right one.

-dave

 

[beandip]

Re: Used Acoustics--Thoughts?

the "Lawsuit" (there never was one) Taks are awesome. I've had three, and all were sold for some reason or another. I rarely regret selling anything, but one of my biggest is an old 340SE. That thing was awesome however you looked at it.