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GMC Forum _ PRACTICE ROOM _ New Acoustic

Posted by: Vaidya Dec 1 2011, 06:15 PM

Hi guys,
I'm planning to go for a new acoustic.I've always wanted a Taylor and I had decided on the 214CE-G a long time back.
Today I was doing some research and checking out the specs.The back and sides are laminates.That was a HUGE blow for me
I am only looking for a solid body guitar.

So,coming to terms with this loss,I started checking out some Martins.I really like the Performer Artist 4 series.These guitars are priced at $1200
and the GPCPA4 model seemed to be the perfect one for me.The look,sound and shape.So when I looked at the specs it turned out to be a solid body.I was relieved.But then I noticed that the fretboard material is Black Richlite.Never having come across it before,I did a google search.Turns out it is a synthetic material and not real wood.Another blow :/

Checked out some reviews and there seems to be a lot of mixed opinion about this.All the sub $2000 Martins seem to have either Richlite or Micarta.

Now i'm thoroughly confused.Should I be concerned about the laminates on the Taylor, or the synthetic fretboard on the Martins?
The Taylor 314CE is out of my budget so I will probably try looking for a used one under 1200.

Do you guys have any other suggestions?
This is going to be a like a long term investment so I dont want to rush into this.

Thanks in advance

Posted by: Bogdan Radovic Dec 2 2011, 05:33 PM

I think higher end Taylor and Martins guitars should do fine but I'm really not sure which models.
In general with acoustics the price will tell you how good it is (in most cases)
I think you need to try them out when you narrow it down and see which one sounds best to you and is most comfortable - that should be most important test.

Any experts on acoustics out there?

Posted by: Alex Feather Dec 2 2011, 05:50 PM

It depends what do you exactly need in acoustic guitar if you need to plug it into the amp or record with it just using mics?
Also if prefer any specific wood and body
If you need it for live shows I would go with Godin http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/godin-multiac-grand-concert-duet-ambiance-nylon-string-acoustic-electric-guitar they are making the same model but with steel strings
If you are looking for an acoustic guitar I would go with this one http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/martin-swdgt-sustainable-wood-series-dreadnought-acoustic-guitar/514761000000000
Read some reviews about this guitar I use to own it and loved it with all my heart!

Posted by: Vaidya Dec 2 2011, 07:27 PM

I found a nice Taylor 414CE 2003 Model.The guy at the store said it has the old electronics.He also added that,to be honest,the old system is actually better sounding because it allows you to blend the tones.Does anybody know about this?

Posted by: Frederik Dec 2 2011, 08:21 PM

Try them! Martin and Taylor are two different stories. try blueridge and lakewood and others

Posted by: Nihilist1 Dec 2 2011, 09:01 PM

I personally love the Martin OMC-1E. They don't make them anymore, but they sell for about $850 used in the states. They aren't all that rare either. They are made out of Sitka and Sapele(African Hardwood). Plus, not only do they have a cutaway, but they sound pretty dark and rich. I myself do not like really bright acoustic tone.

http://www.themusiczoo.com/cgi-bin/commerce.cgi?preadd=action&key=1539&CAWELAID=992023628

There is one that is currently for sale for 899.99

And here is a youtube video demoing the guitar. As well as the OM-1.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRo6L1KapaU&feature=related

Posted by: Alex Feather Dec 2 2011, 10:07 PM

I agree just try them out and see which one you like the best!

Posted by: Vaidya Dec 3 2011, 10:54 AM

Trying them out would be out of the question since my cousin will be bringing it from US.I live in India

Posted by: Ivan Milenkovic Dec 3 2011, 10:04 PM

Hmm not sure man, if I were in the position to spend that much money on acoustic, I would try as much as possible, not only in the price range, but (specially) better models. By checking better models, you quickly realize if your guitar is a good deal or not