The Definitive Acoustic Guitar Buying Guide ★ Acoustic Tuesday
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 20 เม.ย. 2020
- This definitive acoustic guitar buying guide uses a 5-step framework to help you choose what acoustic guitar to buy. For the 5-step framework and examples on tons of guitars, be sure to watch this episode of Acoustic Tuesday!
Buying an acoustic guitar can be a tricky process. By following my 5-step framework, you'll have a guitar you feel confident purchasing. Before you watch the video, be sure to invite your significant other/partner to watch with you! Having your +1 on board will help during the buying process.
To get things started, let's dive right into the acoustic guitar buying guide...
Step 1. Evaluate the Guitar's Looks
You might be thinking that this is not that important. You might think the sound is the most important part of a guitar. But you need to be attracted to your guitar visually. This doesn't mean the guitar needs to be flashy and blingy.
Instead, you want to feel as if the guitar is calling to you and you are inspired by just the "look" of the guitar - whether it's worn, straight grain, or matte finish. If you're drawn to a guitar visually, you're more likely to look at it and feel the need to play it.
Step 2. Evaluate the Guitar's Sound
Ideally, you want to be able to play the guitar you're thinking of purchasing. If you can't play it try finding a variety of demo videos with high-quality sound. When you listen or play the guitar, I want you to stop for a moment and ask yourself, "Can I still feel that guitar resonating in my body?"
I want you to find a guitar that feels so amazing, you can't see yourself without it. This means something different for everyone. Every guitar player has their own preference on timbre and tone and volume, so just make sure the guitar you pick resonates with you.
Step 3. Evaluate the Guitar's Playability
When buying a guitar, playability is an extremely important factor. For this step, I want you to take into account the things you cannot change about a particular guitar. For example, you can change the action, string height, or strap button placement. Things you cannot change are nut width, neck profile, string spacing, body width, etc.
You want to feel comfortable when you're trying out guitar. If anything feels too big, too small, or just not right, don't be afraid to move on. If you don't feel comfortable playing it, it'll be that much harder to motivate yourself to play that guitar.
Step 4. Evaluate the Guitar's Versatility
This might not be applicable to you if you're looking for a specific type of guitar to round out your guitarsenal. However, for most guitar geeks, you want to find a guitar that can do a wide variety of playing styles. You'll want a guitar that can grow and flex with you as you discover new concepts, styles, and genres of acoustic music!
Make sure the guitar you're thinking of buying can do both fingerpicking and flatpicking. You want this guitar to be by your side through your acoustic guitar journey.
Step 5. Evaluate the Guitar's Level of Inspiration
This is difficult to do, but just know that each guitar has a story. The guitar that inspires you the most typically has a story behind it. Even if your buying a new guitar, the story attached to that guitar is the story of the manufacturer. The story of a Taylor guitar, fresh out of the factory, is different from the story of a new Martin guitar. Which story resonates with you the most?
If you're looking at used or vintage guitars, also take into account the story of the previous owners. You want this guitar to inspire you and bring joy and fulfillment into your life.
What do you think of this 5 step framework? Did it work for you? Are you planning on using this definitive acoustic guitar buying guide? Let me know in the comments below!
If you need more practice on deciding whether you should buy a guitar, make sure to watch the full episode. I'll be evaluating three different guitars and applying this 5 step framework to each of the guitars.
If you want to see more of the notes I have on this episode, be sure to visit Acoustic Life today!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: tonypolecastro.com/al-request...
★ All show notes and links: acousticlife.tv/at139/
★ Get the show: tonypolecastro.com/get-acoust... - แนวปฏิบัติและการใช้ชีวิต
![ความรักไม่ได้น่ากลัวขนาดนั้น (TRUST ME) - LYKN [ OFFICIAL MV ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9np-lAtCRpQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Tommy Emmanuel interview with you said the same thing the guitar for you is the one that you have a problem putting down. More you hold it the more you will play it.
As a beginner and taking your advice… All I could do was see other people play and comment about guitars and then…bam…I fell in love with my first guitar…the Gibson Dove..cherry sunburst vintage. No one here to disagree with me. My husband passed away last year…home alone. I selected this as my first one. Here’s to being able to fully follow thru on all the other next steps next guitar around. Here comes joy into my life. Ann
I played a '68 Martin D-18 that I absolutely fell in love with. I played it for 3 hours. It felt like a part of me. It was reasonably priced. But...I had just bought a new pick-up truck that day and had a young family. I had to walk away. I still miss that guitar. :(
I once had a girl like this
I hear you... I've had guitars and rare rifles that it killed me to be 'responsible'. I hate being an adult! lol
I have GAS 😂 I have a Jim Dandy on the way as I type this! My knock my socks off surprise guitar was gifted to me. It’s an early 2000’s Ibanez Artwood AW100...SUCH a nice instrument.
Thanks for all you do with the show Tony! I ordered a Guitarsinal t-shirt this morning 🤘🏼🎸
Such great advice! I’ve postulated the top three metrics as you’ve suggested are the most important things to consider for any gear purchase! Great content!! Thanks!
Tony, I continue to appreciate your channel. I am a long time guitar player who began exploring (buying) over 200 guitars over the past 2 years. The price range has been increasing over time but most have been in the $300-$750 range. What I’ve learned is that there are many guitars in the $500 range that are very well made and sound as good as those that are $2000+. I realize that solid wood will improve the sound over time but initially many of the sounds are comparable across the spectrum. To the short of it, I have held on to 16 guitars that will stay. It has been a learning experience about woods, scale length, nut widths, body size, and looks. All the things you spoke of in this video were spot on with what I believe to be essential in the journey to find that special guitar for the enthusiast. I will continue to subscribe to the Acoustic Life - kudos!!
I found my perfect guitar after 50 years of looking and now it sits in the corner of my study. A 2019 Martin 000-28 Reimagined standard series. It fits my hands perfectly, sounds great in DADGAD, and looks as if Martin re-issued a 1939 000-28 Herringbone. I play it every day for at least two hours.
Love it .. next on my list :) the reimagined series is just jawdropping
I'm really eyeing a Martin OM-28 Reimagined.
It plays so wonderful.
sorry to be so off topic but does any of you know of a trick to log back into an Instagram account..?
I was stupid lost my account password. I would love any tips you can give me!
@Gianni Ellis Instablaster =)
@Karsyn Anders thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site thru google and im waiting for the hacking stuff atm.
Takes quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.
I loved the materials, the looks, and concept of these two similar guitars. Glad that you enjoyed the design collaboration, and the final result of your special guitar. It sounded quite good. On the other hand, there is quite a contrast in sound that I have trouble putting in words. The moment you began playing the BOUCHER, it became a dynamic living creature, seemingly drawing you into it’s desire to sing aloud with beauty, gusto, and heavenly resonance. That guitar could express it’s living soul through many playing styles in many settings. To me, it felt much like it was helping set you free to play at a flowing level somewhat beyond your normal expectations. I listened to both samples twice to check my impressions.
That Boucher is a beautiful guitar. It has an "ever so slight" growl to it (acoustic overdrive?) that is appealing to my ears, and the sound just resonates. That perfect blend blend of growl with purity makes my ear drums tingle.
Love your channel...helped me buy my first guitar!! Watched almost every video dudeee!!!!
Hi ya Tony,
Just wanted to say I really dig your show. I’m retiring next year and planning to sign on up as a lifer with you guys since I’ll have extra time on my hands finally.
Thus far I’ve been mostly an electric guitar player although I really want to start playing acoustic as well.
Great show man, don’t change a thing 🤙🤟
You hit it on the head with the 5 brother! The guitar should call out to you. I had a friend who said to me one time, Don’t worry about what to get, it’ll speak to you.
You are right Tony, for us guys, looks are very important!
I couldn´t agree more with you on step 1. If you don´t fall in love with the guitar´s looks and don´t find it will always call for you to take it into your arms, play it, and neglect anything else, then you simply won´t develop the obsession that it takes to put you through hard times with your music or your initial learning.
Totally agree Tony, the Bourgeois is a winner. Beautiful and beautiful sounding OM guitar.
Both guitars are exquisite. For the way I play, I would want the pick guard and I like the slotted headstock. I would choose the Boucher. Great show Tony.
Boucher. Loved its tone and volume.
Dude your videos are just what I needed, you must've been from a small town
Hey Tony,
I saw your your acoustic Tuesday #139 Buying a Guitar today on a utube cruise.. Very informative and especially valued the exposure to the 3 guitars you featured...I had never seen nor heard the Carbon Fiber guitar and really valued the construction video about it!!. I learned a lot and really enjoyed your comments . I really liked the JP Cormier Boucher for the flexibility as a preference but I adored the Bourgeois for the beautiful, mellow 'like butter' tone...just amazing.If I were a wealthy person I would buy them both! I will be looking up the price ranges.
Thanks again for a great show!
@TenaS
Hola from Barcelona Tony, hope you and yours are doing fine with all, on the topic of this video, what defines the search of a guitar I will say, at least for me, the budget, I'm poor and broke, I love Martin guitars since maybe day 1 I start playing, but they are there, on the unreachable top of the mountain, with that being said instead of envy or misdesire what I can't have, I'm very proud owning a cheap 100% laminated guitar that allows me to keep playing, and for that, she is and sounds amazing, because is me playing it. I can't see it or feel it any other way.
No matter the instrument you have, surround yourself with positive feelings and definetly it will sound way better than actually is ;)
Love and respect to you and your crew, awesome content every week, keep on!
thank you so much for the content made..really really thankful for the insights Thank you!
Tommy Emanuel once said in an interview (with Tony, I believe), that the best guitar to buy is "the one you don't want to put down", which I agree 150% with. The problem is that an inexperienced player might not yet be able to figure out which instrument that is. Tony's five criteria is a HUGE help there!👍
I agree.. I had several more main stream brands, then I found one that really sang to me. I sold the rest and this one guitar follows me where ever I go. It's not the most expensive but it is like a glove. It's a journey you have to find that one that speaks to you. FYI mine is a Yamaha.. I now own 3 and love them dearly. I personally think Yamaha is sometimes not thought of as a high end guitar maker, but they are.
Good tips on how to find the perfect guitar Tony. I have yet to play one, but the guitar im really GASing for has got to be a Martin 000-15m. Something about them really speaks to me.
I’ve gone done all the rabbit holes… and I’m loving the Maton, Furch, and Martin. The 000-15SM really speaks to me
That Boucher was awesome, I would pick that one.
The Boucher, though not as aesthetically pleasing, does something magical to me. I'm from upstate NY and that Adirondack spruce resonates in my genes. Both awesome and far beyond my price range.
I just bought a GS Mini and a 214ce. These guitars are comfortable and sound awesome. I really love the size of the GS Mini, but I have fat fingers, so it's a little tight. I love the sound of the 214ce but it's full scale length presents the opposite problem, stretches a a bit more challenging because I have short fingers. Both problems are mitigated by using a strap and playing with the guitar in a more classical position, which also translates nicely to standing while playing.
I bought both guitars on recommendations from the Acoustic Letter videos you did on each. I bought the Mini in person first and fell in love with its playability, then lockdown happened and my overwhelming hankering for full sized Taylor goodness led to the purchase of the 214 (as did getting a Baby for $100).
I'm curious, Tony: is it more comfortable for you to play with the guitar horizontal on your lap? I find classical to be more comfortable and technique easier in classical position, especially as you work your way down the neck.
I should have voted on the last video, but didn't. I have played all sorts of guitars at various music stores and found Taylor is the most comfy. Taylor's technological and ecological efforts also put them over the top for me. Though I will likely but a high end Martin some day, I love Taylor at my current "experienced beginner" stage. So sad, Taylor needed some love in that previous comment section.
You just connected my PRS to Dana... Already loved it, now even more (sandpaper marks and all)🥰
Awesome episode. As to Taylor v. Martin? It's the pure Yin and Yang of human nature. Our worlds are simply better with both. That people express a preference for one over the other at one time or another simply demonstrates how they oppose and complement each other. More importantly, these two are not alone: Larrivee, Collings, Bourgeois, Boucher, Santa Cruz, Froggy Bottom, Henderson, Huss & Dalton, Gibson, Guild, etc. Thank you, kindly.
I would definitely go with the Bourgeois. I am also typically drawn to simple, yet stately, guitars. The pick guard is a bit much for me on the Boucher. They are both beautiful guitars and beautiful-sounding, of course, but I am currently in the market also for a 12-fret fingerstyle guitar, so in that sense I would definitely go with the Bourgeois. I am currently hoping to snag a Martin 000-15sm pretty soon, the sustain is just wonderful and I love the vintage look and feel of it. Thanks for another episode, looking forward to John Prine next week!
Tony here's a story for you and Daddio on episode 139. When I was in the market for a guitar some 12 years ago, this was shortly after I began to play guitar. I went to buy a good second hand acoustic guitar from a reputable local guitar store. At the time I had more money than knowledge and ability. I was presented with two guitars. There was a man in there, I would come to know as John playing and trying out guitars. He seem really good to me at the time, I now know he actually was. I asked him to play the two offerings. He graciously did. and I made my choice on the basis how it sounded by listening to it and not playing it. It turned out the be a newer Martin. When he was finished, I complimented him of his ability, and asked if he would teach me some of the blues he was playing. He said I dont teach for a lack of time, but if I ever do, I will call you. Low and behold 6 months later he called, and I gladly became his student for the next two years. In the process I was truly cultured into the old blues guys and folk players of the 60s. He use to say a good teacher eventually teaches himself out of a student. The musical journey continued. John and I remained friends, a typical guitar geek scenario. Tony, I commend you for this podcast as you are one of two my favorite things about Tuesdays. I cant tell you the other, as this a family show :-). Well that's another story for your Guitar Geek archives.
thank you for this conversation, it helped guide my purchase of a Martin D28 last week, which I instantly love.
Having owned Taylors for some time, and I do love their style and playability, i just wasn't in love with how they sounded when recorded... I am super fussy on this, especially when it comes to production and mixing. Every Taylor I've ever recorded (recently 810 DLX and 614ce) just thinned out and sounded glassy when strummed or played loudly. It just didn't sound strong enough to cut through a pop mix, especially when layered with drums and piano etc. The Martin just doesn't have this problem. While both brands can obviously be played beautifully and produce amazing results, i just have to say that Martin has the clear advantage in the studio. The D28 sounds comparatively punchy and tough, when compared to its Taylor counterpart.
Both Guitars were amazing. But the Bucher seemed to jump out of the screen. I could see it backing up a loud banjo player. Which is what I am doing now.
I just recently discovered Acoustic Tuesday. I'm becoming a big fan. I have quite a Guitarsenal, which I will share with you soon. Glad to meet you.
Fun show this week Tony. On the Martin V Taylor show- to be honest I hate those comparison shows, it's a futile exercise, Ford v Chev, Specialized V Fisher, Martin V Taylor V Collings.... Fender V Gibson V Ibanez.... Howe V Gretzky they all do somethings different, somethings the same. I need to play a few more guitars with the Cocobolo back, I have no frame of reference on the tone, but it is stunningly beautiful.
I found that I actually have something in common with Chet Atkins. We both started playing the same guitar: a Sears Silvertone. Mine didn't last long. After a long search, I found a used Yamaha in a pawn shop. It was all wood, made in Japan and I knew it was the perfect instrument for me the minute I picked it up. It was a perfect fit. That was intended to stress the importance of your point about "bonding" with a guitar. I knew the instant I picked that one up that it was for me. I got that guitar in the early 1970s and I still play it. I now have a Taylor (after another long search for the perfect guitar) and have played a variety of different Martins. My conclusion is that the truly perfect guitar is the one you like. Labels mean a lot when you are talking about money and ego, but mean absolutely nothing when considering how much YOU like it ... how it looks ... how it feels ... how it sounds ... how it plays. ANY guitar you like is the best guitar.
Loved the look and tone from that Boucher, but both are pretty sweet
Call it a sign from God, but this episode came on the perfect day! I’m between a few acoustics, and I’ve been killing myself trying to choose the right one. Thanks for all the info Tony!
David Gutierrez What did you end up getting? I’m looking at the Yamaha LS-TA.
Two years ago, I made a pilgrimage to Elderly Instruments to buy my dream guitar. My two criteria were sound and playability only. A sales associate and I did a playoff of many incredible guitars. I was determined to purchase whatever won within my price limit of 6K. I left this amazing store with a Santa Cruz F model in Indian Rosewood with a Sitka top. It has such a sweet, powerful sound. It responds to the lightest touch. And it rings like a grand piano. I have never regretted this decision.
Glad to hear that,as I have had the best experiences with this store as well.Bought a '08 Gibson Advanced Jumbo used and a PRS 408 MT new and both guitars are stellar.Informative videos on their Channel as well.
Jim Horst you should visit the shop if you ever get the chance. The guitars are incredible and the staff members are very professional and friendly, including Joe Konkoly, who happened in as I was finalizing my purchase
You know, an old friend of mine had/has a beautiful Guitar he wanted to sell to me and I really wanted it but I could not afford it. He moved eventually and I never had the chance to buy it and yes, I do shed a tear, and after I tell you what the guitar was, you might get choked up as well. The guitar had a lot of damage but nothing that couldn’t be repaired, but the sound that came out of this musical masterpiece was a sound that would stop a choir of angels playing their Harps . I really loved that sound and although trying to somewhat find the similar sound on a different guitar proved to be impossible. I know I could still purchase this guitar if I had the funds , but I don’t . So I will pray to the guitar gods to take care of this beautiful 1959 GIBSON J-45 which was purchased in 1959 by the same owner for $45. If you did not know this, this is how Gibson named their guitars in the past , by the price.
Happy birthday Colorado Kyle and congrats on the purchase.
Well Tony...you know my love of all things Boucher. To my ears in this shootout, the Boucher seemed to be a bit more forward in the attack than the Bourgeois. But your Bourgeois sounds so warm and is really suited to the finger style music you were playing. But if I had to choose, I'd go with the Boucher. Go Canada! ;)
I find the Bourgeois is sooooo beautiful! Good choice!, great wood I don't like the Boucher pickguard. The sound of the Boucher is the absolute killer! Rosewood and Spruce at its best! I just love the richness of the overtones and the presents of this guitar! I would use this guitar for a live performance and the Boucher for recordings for its more balanced tones.
Hey nice hodag mug! Watching from Wisconsin.
Scale length is important too, dont know if u mentioned it..laminate/solid/cf etc. Love tuesdays!!!
Ed from Aloha, OR here. I would follow your order, with the exception that I would move your #1 to #5. There is nothing more important than the sound. There are times where looks are important. I am a bowler, and the way a bowling ball looks can help you see where it hits the break point and the motion it makes to the pocket - the way a bowling ball looks is part of its function. I do consider the way a guitar looks, but never influenced my decision more than sound, playability, versatility and level of inspiration.
I see your point, but if the Hello Kitty guitar was the best sounding guitar in the world, i would still rather play something else.
@@trollstjerne You got me - point well taken.
Thanks Mr. Palecastro!.... the GS Mini gas been hijacked by my daughter but what is the next step from there...I am lefty...so not a lot of opportunities to try new things like you. You show is essential for lefties because you truly are the biggest guitar geek on the planet
This episode is about a pertinent as possible as I am in the process in purchasing a custom Martin. A problem I am having is having to wait due to Martins factory being closed due to COVID 19 pandemic. This is probably a good thing for me but, a real pain for the Willies' American Guitar shop. I have been at their shop twice now as I purchased a Martin 000-42 which I returned because it had a couple of things that caused me to think that after the trial period perhaps causing me to question the purchase. The Martin 000-42 met all of the criteria you just covered in this episode. Except for the intangibles like I prefer a guitar with a cutaway and my preference is for a 4 1/2" body depth and the 000-42 is only 3 3/4". So nothing I couldn't get use to but, will I??? I am now looking to custom make a GP-28E with a cutaway. The next dilemma is balancing the desire list with the amount of $ I can justify spending. Which is going to be difficult because by it vary nature a custom guitar you want to completely make personal and beautiful. Here in lies what I will be going through until I am able to solidify specs and place the order. Again thank you Tony for the five step framework.
Michael K
Most people are probably going to need to set a budget before applying your 5 criteria, and if it's their first guitar, should leave room in it for things like some sort of case, humidifier, tuner, etc. I'd bet a fair number of folks are taking up guitar now that so many of us are mainly at home. In a future episode, it might be good to discuss any tweaks you'd make to the criteria for a child's first guitar.
Bought a 64' Martin D-21 modified by Frank Ford. Forward shifted scalloped top and bottom enlarged sound hole. Really nice Brazilian.
I really love everything you say....Guitar Acquisition Syndrome...I have that problem. You have so many things to share and sometimes you hit on things I could never put into words....I am a lefty...so I got my first GS Mini after watching your show....I always played guitars that were really unplayable for a late beginner. Could you please do one show on the guitars that are the absolutely easiest to play....I never knew Taylor guitars were so fun to play until I got my first GS Mini....I can play so many things I thought were impossible to play.
Tony, i think you need to use JP Cormier as a feature Artist for those who haven't had a chance to to see or hear some of his material.
Mr. Polecastro both your Bourgeois and the Boucher sound incredible, however you only fingerpicked the Bourgeois and you only flatpicked the Boucher making them difficult to compare. I, like you, like understated looking guitars. With that I feel the Bourgeois is more attractive to my eye. It sounds delicious fingerpicked.
On the other hand, I do more flatpicking and strumming than fingerpicking and based upon sound from this video with the pick I prefer the sound of the Boucher.
Also as a side note, Soundpure is a fantastic music store in Durham, NC. Their salesmen in my experience are very down to earth and attentive. I’m thinking of purchasing a National Raw 12 resonator from them. Thanks as always for all you do for us as a musical community.
JR
North Carolina
(Still quarantining in Mississippi with family)
On tone, Bourgeois wins easily. As a Canadian, that makes me feel a bit disloyal, but my ears don't know nationality. Admittedly I play a delicate fingerstyle which is the strength of the Bourgeois. I play solo and don't have to cut through the noise to be heard. But there's a rare quality of openness in this (and many other) Bourgeois guitars. Most guitars push sound outward, but in great guitars it simply emerges fully formed in the air. Having played such a guitar, I recognize that sound as meaning the music is not generated by the mechanics of the instrument, as happens in non-magical guitars, so much as it lives in the fibres of the wood, and in the body of the player, and shimmers in the air around it. Once you've experienced it, that special sound is unmistakable.
One best on buying gutars .seen in years
The Bourgeois wins hands down for me: aesthetically, it's drop-dead gorgeous and I love it's richer, more mellow sound. Great show, Tony!!
great stuff
Clever! Hook the guitar geeks into watching your video via a "5-step framework", insert a McPherson promo in the middle, then go back into the "episode" and then add two more promos for 2 different companies toward the end. Super sly.
I'm not a guitar-geek (noob, here), but I'd like to cast my vote late. I vote for Stonebridge. Oh, wait...that wasn't one of the options? lol
I still think it's the solid top wood and other materials that matter more than the brand, along with the body size/shape. Again, what do I know; I'm a total noob. I only know I like what I hear and sometimes I like what I see and hear.
Hi Bradford M! I went to high school in Arlington, TX (30 years ago).
...and that Bourgeois (custom built, price unknown): GORGEOUS! However, the Boucher (J P Comier +$6K)...just WOW! It not only sounded amazing, but it was STUNNING! I would not pay more than $1,500 for ANY guitar unless I were buying one as an investment to sell for more money than I paid (or maybe if I could write it off on my taxes lol).
I think it's absurd to spend so much money on one guitar, but that's just me.
Call me a heathen but I wouldn't waste my money on a lit of brands out there. You want quality, great tone and beautifully built? Check out the Godin family of instruments
Hey Tony, do you plan on publishing your acoustic Tuesday Videos as podcasts on Apple Music and such? I would love to just listen to them without always watching the videos, e.g. when driving or doing household and such. Haven’t found it yet; correct me if I just missed it.
Sending you all the guitar geek love!
My Martin vs Taylor vote still definitely lies with seagull lol 😂😉 hope to see the godin family of guitars on your channel some day
Boucher for the awesome tone and volume. Borgeois for looks.
Thx for this dude
Thank you Tony great show! And on the other subject I think number two the Bourgeois guitar is, louder and clearer sounding. An overall better sounding guitar. And looked better to boot. If forced to pick one both look to be excellent guitars!!
In Bob Taylor's book he mentions several times how impressed he is with Martin. I respect Martin and feel I should buy one but I keep buying more Taylor's because they have this harmonic sparkle I can't find anywhere else. I do love Martin guitars. I just like Taylor better.
I must also say that I don't think your viewers represent the normal breakdown of buyers when it comes to the Taylor vs Martin question.
Durability might be a reasonable criteria. I've had a few very nice wood guitars become damaged due to humidity, temperature. If one is giging this can happen. If one can warm up to a carbon fiber (Emerald, McPherson, Rainsong) the chances of survivability would seem to be much higher (and these, while not wood, are very fine instruments)
Go Canada Go!!! I would love a Boucher I have a D35 and a J45 so would maybe go OM. But I am a sucker for a Dread.
... and just to be super specific, one very noticeable trait is the percussive / pick / buzz noise when strumming a Taylor is much more pronounced, which really makes it feel less solid and more ...papery? It's like the turbulent nature of this sound is amplified somehow... making it sound almost a bit sibilant.
JP Cormier is a great guitar player. No coincidence he has a great custom guitar design in the Boucher.
The sound of the Boucher is the seeker for me. Great resonance and the sound really jumps off the instrument. Great Show Tony.
Hi Tony! continues with great work! I subscribed to your 30daytoplay pdf and still haven't received anything, can you tell me why?
John V from Raleigh. GAS. You should have mention budget. You need to know what is off limits and what is not.
I just loved the rich sound of the Boucher and prefer it. But the looks of the Bourgeois is more striking.
Liking the Dallas Stars colored Blackhawks jersey
Tony, Keep bringing the great content. There seems to be a spec discrepancy on the Boucher. Your review says Addy top, but you stated it was Sitka on the show, at least twice. I think I found it on another site and they say Addy as well. Can we clear this up? Awesome sound in any case.
Brian Cordell : Boucher uses red eastern spruce (aka Adirondack) for tops and bracing
Bourgeois. Warmer sound and I prefer the appearance.
You know I love my X7 Emerald but I wouldn't say no to a Mcpherson wandering into the Diva Den.
I liked hearing from Bradford. Guitars have helped me through hard times, too!
My vote is for Boucher! Also, what's the name of the song at 43:00? I've heard it somewhere before but can't quite remember the name.
#AcousticLife I'd be interested in the answer to the question above, re @43:00, and I'm guessing that it's in either Drop D or Open D tuning, yes?
Colorado kyle. Learning the F chord. On a koa taylor mini. I sure hope he gives that guitar whaf it deserves.
That Boucher sounds much "better" than the Bourgeois. The stylized "B" on the Boucher 12th fret looks eerily similar to the Breedlove stylized "B". The Boucher had wonderful overtones, even though the wood is not as "pretty". I thought the Bourgeois sounded "flat" and "dead", and definitely was a "dryer" sound. If I were to pick one, Boucher would be an easy win; It checks almost every box for my playing style and tastes.🐰🎸🎵🤝✌️
Totally agree with you!
How would you modify this framework for buying online? You can't pick it up and play it, and there's variations in describing things like neck profile. So how do you use it without returning the guitar after delivery?
Thanks for another fantastic episode Tony. The Bourgeois wins this battle in my opinion. I really like the look of slotted headstocks, non of my guitars has that (except for my 5 nylon string guitars), and the binding on the Boucher looks great too. But the Bourgeois sounds much better imo.. Playability, i dont really know, but they look similar, so its a draw.. Versatility, again not sure have to try, so its a draw again.. Inspiration.. Not sure if the stories of these exact guitars would do me anything, but i think the sound of the Bourgeois would inspire me to play more.
No disrespect to McPherson they make great guitars, but seriously what's the deal with carbon fiber guitars? Yes, they're more durable and stable, but so what? Carbon fiber guitars sounds like the 50-100 dollar guitars you get from amazon, ebay or walmart. I dont see the point unless you commute from Africa to the north pole everyday.. But for the rest of us just don't leave your guitar in the car or out on the streets in the middle of the night. Keep it in a case when you don't use it or if you're taking it with you somewhere. If home, keep it where you are, if the temperature and humidity is comfy for you the guitar will probably be fine too.
Hey Tony, have you ever reviewed Zager guitars ? I have been wanting to buy one, just waiting to see more reviews before I buy it. Thank you. 👍
Pepper Jackey I have a Zager ZAD-80CE-OM. It has Indian rosewood back and sides and a cedar top. It’s easy to play and sounds so sweet! It sounds great and it’s gorgeous with all the abalone on the top and rosette! But, I must confess that because I have GAS, I do have other guitars too. So, I have more than one guitar that I love playing.😁
No question for me #2 Boucha however you spell it, it sounds amazing I could never afford either one. I'm retired. I think #1 is prettier tho.
I just started playing guitar i got the fender stratacustic is that a good one to have
'I can still feel the guitar resonating in my body'. Tony
How do we know it's the guitar and not the gas though?
Hmm.
Maybe I should stick with the gas, i can play that pretty damn well. ☺
John V from Raleigh. You should have mention budget. You need to know what is off limits and what is not.
Is the Fender FA-345CE Auditorium a good buy? I want to hear your thoughts please
I'm a beginner at 57 y/o, in your TAC. I get ridiculed because my ear wants certain tone woods. The scoffers dog me 'cause I don't 'deserve' a Taylor yet. Thoughts? (BTW I used to tell what brand of piano was being played).
Wait, did I just watch a whole episode without one single Molly Tuttle reference??????
Man am I ever in love with that boucher
I have gas not because I need an upgrade but because I want to try something I haven't tried before, which is a Jumbo. :)
To me, the Boucher wins hands down. The Bourgeois sounds warm and lovely, and I'm not sure you showed it off as well as the Boucher in your demonstration. But the Boucher blew my hair back -- so much sound, tone and depth from a smaller-sized guitar. It could put many top-of-the-line dreadnoughts to shame. I've played some Bouchers in music stores and every one has been exceptional -- just wish I could afford them.
Martin, there’s no competition. Ha :)
#6 should be have someone else play it for you. It's one thing to love the way it sounds while playing, but I always need to know how it sounds when I'm playing for others. Your songs might need a sound that you can't perceive behind the guitar.
I bugged you enough about a review of Mcpherson that you reviewed their carbon guitars, how about their wood acoustics?
Your video says the Boucher is torrified Adirondack Spruce. Yet this AC Tuesday you say it is Sitka Spuce top. I would vote Boucher for my uses. With different specs I would consider Bourgeois. But then, my dream Custom would be a Martin.
I bought a small bodied Martin for fingerstyle only to find I could not get on with it's size. Very expensive mistake!
I DO have this syndrome. I am up to 6 acoustics, love every one of them for different reasons. They all have special attributes. Husband does not even know about the last one. It is so SWEET! I don't even play well enough to justify the cost of most of these. Is there a cure?
I realize this is an older episode my picks have not been like this, I am in the market for a vintage guitar, almost bought a new guitar but my fiancé nipped it in the bud. Here’s why and what. My favorite Guitar Shop they’ve dealt with my pickiness. If your ever in the State Of Maryland you want you must visit this great place selling everything from new stuff to forgotten stuff. The store is Atomic Music they are located in Beltsville, Maryland now they are about an hour drive for us. I was going to buy a Taylor GS Mini mahogany the neck I believe he said rosewood! I went to look at guitars somewhere else I wish I could name them but do not want to be sued. Now I do want a full scale but not a Takamine Dreadnought which I’m selling that’s not the point. He is a shredder, I am an acoustic player but I do have an electric Fenders Strat ! He said no because he felt it was to small and I’d be back at Atomic trying to sell it because it was a mini. Now I’m 5’2” tall my dreadnought I just have a really hard time playing. I have an Ovation Celebrity. I love the neck size of this one but has a bellied back and to keep my posture I have to use a strap so it will not slide off my lap, I have played this one the most.
Now I’m taking both these guitars back to Atomic and saying it’s time for an upgrade. Plus my guy said he would spend his time there( usually he goes one way I go the other than we meet in the middle) helping me pick a great guitar for myself it is my decision. His ears have heard more guitars than mine we are eight years apart in age he’s the elder ha ha, he’s the love of my life. So it’s quite a coincidence that I pull up this episode because I’m going there this weekend. Now I have what you’ve stated. They do have a Taylor but we also have a budget I must stay in, but I do not want to miss a great guitar! It has to be I play it then he plays it. My acoustic journey also helped him to a certain degree he was having some issues on a couple of songs I told him play my acoustic for about a week then play your electric afterwards it helped him out big time he just took off in a great direction.
He says that I’m the reason! I’m asleep he sneaks off with my acoustic. Always will be a shredder that’s pretty great 👍 Now I have the tools I need now to go in there and say show me the guitars. October 22nd so quite awhile, I found this I watch your show. I watch your show a little bit later in the night. I have some serious health issues sometimes that keep me up most of the night. Your show helps me chill out and learn so much! I want to jam it out!! Thanks so much for the tips so needed that! Congratulations on your baby boy, also your big kid as well you guys look like your having fun. That’s so important! Thanks Tony for an awesome video!! He did ask me today what I want for Christmas , I’m asking for a bigger guitar budget. Cheers
Wow Tony, How can one choose over two beautiful and Spirited guitars? I can hear a bit of difference and can understand one over the other for specific purposes. But like you, I'd have to play both but it seems to me I'd be totally confused. They are both stunning indeed. As a finger picker and woodworker, well what more can I say. I do relate well to your attachment for one over the other, since I can't remember how either is spelled. Both Bs and both Beautiful! I'll take em both,,,,,,,can you lend me some money? Thanks Tony and all Guitar Geeks Worldwide! Love, Light, Peace, Health and Joy in our Guitars! DaveyJO in Lancaster Co. Pa.
Are there any Zagar Guitars on your radar?
i'm sure McPherson's 'Sable' is a lovely instrument & for $3500 (MSRP) it darned sure better be!
I’m torn between Martin and Taylor
Hah, you should be! ;-) Best to be bi-partisan on this and have at least one of each...
morning everyone from Tacoma,Wa
I'm from Olympia.