Thank you this was very informative and very helpful. I have back problems and do not play in the standing position anymore. Got rid of my Martin Dreadnought and have Martin 000-15m mahogany and the Martin 0-18 and Cordoba C9 Parlor guitars playing in the sitting position. I also use the 11-52 or 12-53 gauge strings on steel string guitars and high tension nylon strings on the Cordoba C9 Parlor guitar. I play level 4 classical, enjoy blues, bluegrass and contemporary Christian music. Fingerstyle, flatpicking and strumming. I always consider myself a beginner having fun attitude. I remember Andre Segovia saying " you can be a professional player for 90 years but you never master the guitar only getting better ". My friend always have fun keeping playing music 🎶.
Thank you Andy, so very kind of you to respond so fully to my questions. This is very helpful. I couldn’t help smiling at you trying to slouch on the sofa. I can’t manage that either, but sofas are what we have where I play, so I make the best of it and perch on the edge. Looks like a 000 could be just what I’m looking for. Many thanks.
My 2 cents worth is to try an all mahogany guitar ina 000 or even a 00 size. The mahogany evens out the sound of each string so you don't have lows and highs taking over. I love my Martin 00-15 for strumming, flatpicking, and fingerstyle.
@@qtronicqilt8898 , both of mine are 14 fret guitars. I have the D-15m and the 00-15m. The D-15 is a bit big the lounge on the couch and play. You need to be sitting straight up. I’m also of smaller stature. 5’6”.
@@SillyMoustache, they don't solve the size / scale issue. I bought the D-15 as my 50th birthday present. Tried many other Martins, D-18, D-28, OM 21, etc. and liked the sound of the D-15 the best. Definitely wasn't the prettiest, but last I checked, guitars were for making sound. LOL. The 00-15 came along about a month later when I found it used (6months old) for $500. Who wouldn't buy a perfect USA made all wood Martin for $500? From that purchase, I started to notice that smaller guitars made from all mahogany tended to sound "bigger" or fuller than their spruce topped counterparts. More bass, and a more even sound from the bass to the treble. Also, when you play an all mahogany guitar harder, there seems to be a limit to the loudness that comes out. It never seems to sound harsh. Could just be my ears, but that is my experience and 2 cents.
The common thoughts are that, in a great generality, OM-style for sittiing around, finger-picking, and dreadnaught-style for flat-picking and rhythm. However, I find that I comfortably play any style on either of those guitars. Yes, the OM is a bit more balanced in tone and the dread a bit louder. But the actual putting-the-pick-or-the-fingertips to the strings and playing some music really is very close. But, that's me, and I only play for myself, at home. Most important, I tell people who ask me, is try out a bunch of guitars and you will eventually zero in on a body style that seems most right. Twenty years ago, I found myself very much out of love, or even like, with my Guild dreadnaught, and I went by a Martin dealer to see if I could find something that I would love. I must have stopped in that store 30 times and played every Martin they had, to the point the employees began to tease me that rent for using their space might be in order. I settled on an OM 28VS and they sold the Guild for me. Now I've added a Santa Cruz OM [adironcack/Indian rosewood] and also had them make me a dreadnaught [Adirondck/Brazilian], both with wider necks [1 13/16]. I play anything I play on any of those 3 guitars and see little real difference. It is there, but to me not so significant. Perhaps if I were recording music one or the other guitar might make a difference in that process. Don't know. I don't play on the couch, so that is not an issue.
@@SillyMoustache You are absolutely correct. Mine is an OM28V. I don't know where I got the "VS" in my memory, but I checked the sales slip from way back when and there is no "S," and in fact, I don't even know what the "S" stands for.
@@steveh3550 The "S" used to stand for "standard" which in the '60s (D18/28/35-S) and, I think in the '90s HD xxx VS were "Vintage Series" which meant 12 fret models in dread, 000, 00 and 0 models. Pretty rare now.
Always enjoyable to watch you chat guitars Andy. I recently bought a L’arrivée parlour. Lovely, a perfect sofa guitar. But someone a couple of hours from me is selling a Santa Cruz style 1… 😬
@@Saladzingers Ah! Understand. Nothing wrong with L'arrivees though! Very under appreciated. I had a L'arrivee given to me, (long story) It was a SD50LSHTSB (12 fret dread, with large sound hole, and all over sunburst). It was fine, but I had my Collings dreads, and a friend who needed a good guitar. Enjoy your parlour!
Great videos! While I am planning to get a custom Smeck-style Gallagher, I think the obvious choice I’ve made for a daily-grab guitar is a little 12 fret 000 as a writing guitar. My dreadnaughts stay in the case unless I’m prepping a performance. I favor Silk and Bronze on both the 000 and dread. The dread intonation is improved, and I fingerpick exclusively. Sacrifice some power, but plugged in it does fine.
The Smeck has a very deep body, so not ideal for playing seated unless your posture is good. 000 is my main guitar for teaching and occasional small gatherings. I also feel "safer" with dreads on stage but gigs are few and very far between for this old guy. I don't plug in, I use a condenser mic. Thanks for watching.
I really like the 70s era takamine guitars if they have been taken care of by someone who truly appreciated what they have they are now a great find. I have a c132s nylon string classical guitar and I can play it curled up on the couch. My newer to me f362s is shaped wide and requires good posture and the reward is beautiful balanced tones. Unfortunately I bought 80/20 instead of phosphor bronze and I am still finding what sounds good on it. I really enjoy your videos thanks for taking the time to put them out.
Let me chip in my two cents on Andy”s comments. First of all, I agree with everything he says. I would emphasize his point about putting the right guage strings on guitars. Like him, I put mediums on my big guitars and lights on my smaller guitars. If you put lights on big guitars you loose punch and volume, which is why you bought that big guitar in the first place. Mediums on small bodies can give you a crisper attack and more volume, but they can tear the guitar apart if it isn’t built for mediums. Always check with the builder before doing that. I hear people will sometimes put mediums on smaller guitars, but then tune the guitar a full step lower. I’m told (I’ve never tried it) that this gives you more volume and sustain over lights, but provides the feel of lights and does not put too much tension on the neck and bridge. Andy, I believe your countryman, Martin Simpson, does this on some of his guitars. If you are not sure if you can flatpick a small guitar, check out any TH-cam video of David Rawlings (music partner of Gillian Welch) flatpicking his tiny 1935 Epiphone Olympic archtop. No, it isn’t bluegrass, but it is his own unique sound and pure magic. As for strumming, remember a tiny ukulele is almost always strummed! But if you want that classic full bluegrass sound, whether you are strumming or picking, you pretty have to go big. There is really no substitue for a dreadnought, especially if you want to play bluegrass, but a jumbo can come close. My experience, however, is that a jumbo will tend to give you a somewhat more bass heavy sound. In any event, if you want to fit in at a bluegrass jam, take a dreadnought. I strongly believe the best guitar size for most people who just play for themselves is an OM or OOO. It fits comfortably in your lap. It is not too thick or wide, so it is easy to reach around to the strings. It still has enough bass to be statisfying, plenty of volume, and a lovely balanced sound. If you get one with a short scale, the stings will have less tension and are easier to fret. A less obvious benefit is that, because it doesn’t project like a dreadnought, it tends sound as good to the player as to the listener. (I might also add, although Andy will likely roll his eyes, that you can play it flat on your back lying on the sofa after one beer too many. Trust me on this.) I use my big guitars for gigs and jamming, but my OM and OOO guitars are the ones I pick up day after day when I am home. They are like comfortable old friends. Love your channel Andy. I always look forward to you videos.
Hi, thanks for your comments. I've met and chatted with Martin Simpson many times, but never asked about his choice of strings, and I stopped wondering about his tunings long ago. He's as much (or more) a guitar nerd than I am, but his style is far ahead of mine.
Thanks for this very good information. I always look forward to your videos. The information sheet that came with my Martin OM-28 stated not to put any strings heavier than light gauge12-54's on it. I understand everything you say about posture when playing but sometimes you just have to do what you must in order to play. I have back problems and will find myself slouched in an easy chair with a heating pad on my back playing any of my guitars. Could be anything from a OO to a Jumbo. Not the best but it works. My opinion is, pay attention to Andy because he is one of the best, but do anything you need to do to overcome any physical problems you have in order to keep playing. I'm betting Andy will agree.
@@SillyMoustache I have arthritis in my lower spine, and hands and fingers, and am followed by a doctor. Heat helps to relieve the pain. Sometimes it doesn't bother me for days. It is usually just an annoyance. At other times it drives me crazy. Off topic, but I acquired a 2017 Santa Cruz OOO about a month ago. Oh my goodness, WOW! Absolute delight.
@@georgecrighton Hi again George, I'm sorry to hear that, and I'm glad that you are having medical advice. re guitars, whilst I use dreads for performance (not so much nowadays) I reckon that Martin got it right with 00 and 000 designs and I bet your santa cruz in great. Thanks for watching.
I’d add for the last question with a more mid-sized at home a grand auditorium/mini jumbo. Lower bout is usually between 15-16 inches and the depth 4.25-4.5. I’ve never performed on an acoustic, just home play, but I just love the sound of a dreadnought, but not the volume. I’m a classic country southern boy and need that bass growl sometimes. Last year I got a Yamaha red label fg5 and I doubt I’ll ever get rid of it. It seems a bit more comfortable than other dreadnought (and I use a strap and often do a classical hybrid stance) and it isn’t a cannon.
When I found the dreadnoughts became a strain on my right shoulder, I went to a 00015-S. I prefer the 12 fret for a number of reasons, but 000 seems to cover all the bases from home to studio to stage. With added internal (or under-saddle) pickups it will play any size venue.
haha! Hi George! I used to have a full beard, but the cancer treatment destroyed it on my left side (and a lot of other stuff). After six years it's growing back a little. You wouldn't regret buying a Collings, but I've bought most used/online. As a friend once said to me "how bad could a Collings be? "
@@SillyMoustache keep up the good work man, I personally think it suits you! Thank u for the advice, if I ever save up enough I'll get a used one for sure! Take care man
Two other thoughts/options: a Grand Auditorium and a Martin 0000-28 or M-28. Thin like an OM or 000 with a large bottom bout. Taylor has a GT ( Grand Theater) that is perfect for a couch guitar. I like the 811e, Sitka over Rosewood, and 611e LTD Sitka over Maple. You can strum and flat pick them, but I am mostly finger style.
My thanks to Simon for asking the kinda question that makes us want to tune into Silly Moustache. Michael Watts briefly touched on this topic when covering your shared love of Issac Guillorys Martin D35 was it? Only he was covering it regarding using em for finger style. Having regretted selling my Yamaha L series OM on buying the smaller Brook Taw I’m now saving up for a dreadnought, only my preference is for the Gibson Southern Jumbo, J 45 or given the money a Dove. All of the above could be too much even second hand so I’ve been looking at the USA made Epiphone Texan a guitar that does sound different to the Gibson alternative imo
Just by way of an update, the advice and discussion here led me to a wonderful Santa Cruz D-12, which you could either describe as a small 12-fret dreadnought or a large 12-fret 000. Either way, it's exactly what I was looking for. I would probably never even have considered it if Andy hadn't suggested and demo'd a 12-fret 000, so a big thank you to Andy and everyone who offered their thoughts and suggestions so generously. I know very well how lucky I am to have such a beautiful guitar. My only excuse is I'm overdue a fiftieth birthday present!
Hi Simon, way back in '99 when I was offered a Bourgeois DS260, and Martin HD28VS and my first Collings DS2h I was also offered the SCGC D12. I do believe that it was exactly the same dimensions/size as the Martin and Collings but had a thinner neck. So, pretty sure it is standard "original" dread size.
@@SillyMoustache I don't know if it has changed since then. Current D-12 is full length but 15 1/4 across the lower bout and only 4 1/4 deep at the end pin. You definitely notice the depth compared to a standard 4 7/8 dread. It makes all the difference seated. Neck is along the lines of standard Collings modified V. Probably too thin for you, but works for me.
Regarding your zoom lessons I’ve always been hesitant due to the caring for my father. We’ve finally reached the stage where even between my mother and I we can no longer physically care for him with his advanced Alzheimer’s. Whilst I’ve reached a pretty decent standard I do think I would benefit from the zoom lessons as soon as we find a home for him, which could be within the month.
Andrew, I can empathise, as I cared for me Dad from 1979 until 1986. My Mum died two years earlier, and my sister wasn't prepared to be involved, so I had to wind up his business, and move him down with me as I commenced my new corporate career. It was very difficult. I'd be delighted to meet up via zoom for lessons - no commitments on you. Email me when your Dad is settled. Oh, one thing I must say, I felt as if I had betrayed my Dad by putting him n a home, but he loved it and his final time was happy and safe for him. Let me know when you're ready.
@@SillyMoustache Oh I cant tell you how good it is to hear that your Father took to his care home. Despite even the Carers telling us how well we’ve done to carry on for so long it’s still hard not to feel like that. The difference between my grandmas dementia and my dads Alzheimer’s is that my grandma would allow people to care for her, whilst my dad just doesn’t understand and won’t let us care for him now. I still have your email so I’ll be in touch when ready.
When I had an archtop, that strap on the instrument made just about any position comfortable for playing it. It had a thinner body than my dreadnought. I think thinness is a fact for couch playing.
Just sharing , I play the Tenor Ukulele, the Parlour Guitar (Eastman E10P) and the OM guitar (Eastman E10OM). Guitar strings are 11s I may change to 12s at the next change just to see if there's a perceptible difference. Thanks for all your videos
Hello there ! I have been thinking about buying an Eastman E20 oo guitar, I always wanted to have a slotted headstock small bodied guitar made by Martin but they are hard to come by and pretty expensive. The aforementioned Eastman that I saw at my local guitar shop has an imperfection, one of the pyramids of the bridge is not chiseled right. Although it doesn’t affect the sound of the instrument in anyway, but 0:01 it’s an eyesore. Anyway, thanks for your very informative helpful video. Cheers !
Hi, there is a great many Eastman guitars available at present, and the 0 and 00 models seem to have proven very popular. If you feel the defect will affect your enjoyment of this particular guitar. Reject it and seek out another.
This is an interesting topic to research. I have orchestra, grand auditorium and dreadnoughts, and habitually use 12-53 phosphor bronze strings on all of them. Usually D'Addario EJ16, although I've been pleased with coated strings. Even at the same gauge though, I've had to adjust truss rods with these, so there must be a difference in overall tension. Can't remember whether it's the EJ16s or the coated ones that are tighter though! I'm a strummer and fingerpicker, and for me the grand auditorium works for everything. On a sofa, I do occasionally slouch, comfortably even with a dread. Going back to string gauges and tensions, I've never felt that one guitar size is bass-or-treble heavy, and might benefit from different strings. Every guitar player should find what suits them, I suppose.
Hi, I'm guessing that you mean an "Orchestra Model (i.e. a 14 fret 000, a grand auditorium ??? is that the new 0000, or the "J" as in J-40? As I think I said, some prefer lighter strings than one might assume, and that is your choice - I didn't mean to infer that it is "wrong". If the J and the Dread were set up for mediums and you fit lights, it is likely that you'd need to tighten the truss rod slightly.
@@SillyMoustache Thanks. The orchestra's a Crafter TCO 35. Not sure how that relates to Martin etc., but it has a small body. Surprisingly loud though. My grand auditoriums are Crafter GAE-8 & GAE-9 respectively, and my dread is a Tanglewood TW1000H. When I had to adjust the truss rod, I hadn't changed gauges, but had gone from EJ16s to Elixirs, both 12-53 (light). Same gauges, different tensions for some unknown reason. In years gone by I've tried both lighter and heavier strings, but always end up back with 12s.
@@ParaBellum2024 Hi, I'm unfamiliar with Crafter electros, so could not comment on heir truss rod settings. As they are, effectively electric guitars, then body resonance is not your prime concern as you can always turn up whatever controls your guitars or amp has. Most string brands have tension info on the packaging or on their websites, but not all. sorry I can't help more.
@@ParaBellum2024 Understood, but you paid at least half the purchase price for the electrics, so their focus would surely be mainly about amplified sound.
I do not struggle with the sheer size of a dreadnought, but the large depth is the thing that why I can say that I do not like that type of guitar. There is something going on with the shape of square shoulder dread I feel not comfortable to play, maybe I should give slope shoulder 12th fret dreadnought a try and see how does it fit me. I currently have a nice short scale Sigma 000ME and it is a breeze to play. I had a Washburn slightly larger than 000, between grand concert and auditorium, and it had fit me perfectly but it fell off of a strap and got damaged badly. I am a big pig, 5ft 11in and I cannot see the reason why I cannot handle the big acoustic guitars. I like the sound of open chords the most and I am a heavy handed strummer who is looking for a good mid size guitar.
Large bodied guitars were never really intended for playing seated as were the 000 and smaller. designs. Perhaps I might help you with one-to-one zoom meeting about adjusting ones posture and breathing might help?
Right on point, currently looking for a good all rounder for home, got it now, Eastman OM. Now, rosewood or Mahogany, Sitka or Adirondack, cured or natural? This could take some time…..
first always go with manufacturer's recommendations, i put heavy gauge on a lowden o-10 jumbo, bad idea, as the bridge lifted. If you aren't aware of the design of the bridge, no bridge pins, only strings straight through and over saddle, therefor giving no extra bridge to top support via strings through the top. an all time screw up on my part. would like another lowden someday, i'll treat her better i swear!! lol
Many years ago there was a "trend" in putting heavy gauge string on Martin dreads - in the early '70s when i was buying and selling Martin dreads, I saw many such ruined guitars. I did something similar to a National. Luckily I say the problem quickly and took them off.
Very interesting video as always. On a slightly unrelated issue, do you think string tension is affected by being a 12 or 14 fret with all other things equal, especially scale length? Reason I ask is that I played a 12 fret aj a few years ago that, to me, played like a much smaller guitar, but I passed it up as, in the long run wasn't convinced that I'd get on with the longer scale length.
Hi, Many get confused about this. 12 fretters came first. 0, and 00 are short scale (24.9") whether 12 or 14 frets. dreads are 25.4" (standard) whether 12 or 14. 12 fret 000 are standard scale (as are OMs) but the 14 fret 000 is short scale (?) 0 and 00 are also the shorter scale.
Great video! Do/Did you ever play a nylon/classical guitar? I like them for just a little fingerpicking and noodling, and have 2 1970's higher quality with "brighter" strings for such use. (One is a full size, so 000 like, and the other is 7/8, so 00 like.) The 000 was heavily abused when I got it so I sanded down the cedar top and put a thin shellac finish on...Man it is loud! With a light touch they are so much louder than my steel string guitars.
@@SillyMoustache I have a fingertip injury from when I was 6 years old, and the softer string classical guitar helped get me started with callouses there. They make great fingerpicking guitars.
Any thoughts on Mahogany or Rosewood on an OM? I’ve heard so many on TH-cam but ultimately only through speakers. Anyone, what would you chose and why?
Hi Sid, as you may have noticed, I only play 12 frets so I don't have a 14 fretter like an OM. I have three hog 6 strings, plus two hog 12 strings. I also have four rose guitars. I prefer the martin style "trim" of the rosewood models. but in the end it is the sound of the individual instrument.
At 8:35, you say "You don't want an O or a OO, I can't think why you wouldn't"...Did I hear wrong, because if I did not, the sentence would be contradictory. Also, do you favour rosewood back and sides over mahogany and, say, walnut?
Good spot, actually there was a half swallowed "If.." as in "If you don't want ..." so my original point was that for playing at home seated the smaller the guitar body the better, but I can understand that my diction was less than perfect. Thank for pointing that out.
When I bought a new Taylor 810 dreadnaught years ago I had it setup with light strings out of the gate. Loved it. Bought a Martin HD28 and played it for two years with mediums. Largely due to what you’re saying. It came with mediums and mediums should vibrate the top more. It’s what Martin recommend and all that. It was exhausting. Once I switched to lights (12s) I immediately loved playing it more. Partly this may be down to often switching between my other smaller guitars, I don’t know. I do know I will never use mediums again. Loss of volume on the two guitars is minimal. While playing within a band I’m plugged in anyway. When it comes to tone, I feel the tone is better overall because I play it better. Anyway, my two cents. Love your videos and your unique strumming style. Btw, do you use an amplifier when gigging? I think this would make for an interesting video.
Hi Mark, thank you for your perspective. You have a point and you remind me that I should say that my utterences are "my opinion" only. When I gig now, I don't plug in, I have shed my p.a. gear as my gigs got smaller and since my illness in 2017, they are just my club and the few other remaining local clubs. I have just a Bose L1 plus an extension speaker and use just one large condenser Rode mic. I have boxes of various mics and leads but I'm too old to lug stuff like that around and now only play solo, as my last trio didn't survive the covid years. Thanks for your comments, and for watvhing my videos.
Andrew, as much as I would enjoy a chat with you, I have never considered paying for a friendly conversation. Perhaps when I think of something, I shall ask. If only I was in your neighborhood...
Thanks so much for the input, much appreciated.👍🇺🇸🇬🇧
you are most welcome.
Thank you this was very informative and very helpful. I have back problems and do not play in the standing position anymore. Got rid of my Martin Dreadnought and have Martin 000-15m mahogany and the Martin 0-18 and Cordoba C9 Parlor guitars playing in the sitting position. I also use the 11-52 or 12-53 gauge strings on steel string guitars and high tension nylon strings on the Cordoba C9 Parlor guitar. I play level 4 classical, enjoy blues, bluegrass and contemporary Christian music. Fingerstyle, flatpicking and strumming. I always consider myself a beginner having fun attitude. I remember Andre Segovia saying " you can be a professional player for 90 years but you never master the guitar only getting better ". My friend always have fun keeping playing music 🎶.
Thanks for watching. Glad you found it useful.
Thank you Andy, so very kind of you to respond so fully to my questions. This is very helpful. I couldn’t help smiling at you trying to slouch on the sofa. I can’t manage that either, but sofas are what we have where I play, so I make the best of it and perch on the edge. Looks like a 000 could be just what I’m looking for. Many thanks.
You are so welcome!
My 2 cents worth is to try an all mahogany guitar ina 000 or even a 00 size. The mahogany evens out the sound of each string so you don't have lows and highs taking over. I love my Martin 00-15 for strumming, flatpicking, and fingerstyle.
@@qtronicqilt8898 , both of mine are 14 fret guitars. I have the D-15m and the 00-15m. The D-15 is a bit big the lounge on the couch and play. You need to be sitting straight up. I’m also of smaller stature. 5’6”.
@@JT-gd7he Hi, interesting that uoiu think all mahogany guitars solve the size/scale issues.
@@SillyMoustache, they don't solve the size / scale issue. I bought the D-15 as my 50th birthday present. Tried many other Martins, D-18, D-28, OM 21, etc. and liked the sound of the D-15 the best. Definitely wasn't the prettiest, but last I checked, guitars were for making sound. LOL. The 00-15 came along about a month later when I found it used (6months old) for $500. Who wouldn't buy a perfect USA made all wood Martin for $500? From that purchase, I started to notice that smaller guitars made from all mahogany tended to sound "bigger" or fuller than their spruce topped counterparts. More bass, and a more even sound from the bass to the treble. Also, when you play an all mahogany guitar harder, there seems to be a limit to the loudness that comes out. It never seems to sound harsh. Could just be my ears, but that is my experience and 2 cents.
This was helpful. Thank you!
So glad! If I can be of further help, please contact me.
Andy, as usual your presentations are informative and well thought out. George in Montana
Thanks George, as always, Andy
The common thoughts are that, in a great generality, OM-style for sittiing around, finger-picking, and dreadnaught-style for flat-picking and rhythm. However, I find that I comfortably play any style on either of those guitars. Yes, the OM is a bit more balanced in tone and the dread a bit louder. But the actual putting-the-pick-or-the-fingertips to the strings and playing some music really is very close. But, that's me, and I only play for myself, at home. Most important, I tell people who ask me, is try out a bunch of guitars and you will eventually zero in on a body style that seems most right. Twenty years ago, I found myself very much out of love, or even like, with my Guild dreadnaught, and I went by a Martin dealer to see if I could find something that I would love. I must have stopped in that store 30 times and played every Martin they had, to the point the employees began to tease me that rent for using their space might be in order. I settled on an OM 28VS and they sold the Guild for me. Now I've added a Santa Cruz OM [adironcack/Indian rosewood] and also had them make me a dreadnaught [Adirondck/Brazilian], both with wider necks [1 13/16]. I play anything I play on any of those 3 guitars and see little real difference. It is there, but to me not so significant. Perhaps if I were recording music one or the other guitar might make a difference in that process. Don't know. I don't play on the couch, so that is not an issue.
OM28VS ? Really? I've seen OM28 and 00 or 00028VS (12 frets but OM28VS is a new one to me.
@@SillyMoustache You are absolutely correct. Mine is an OM28V. I don't know where I got the "VS" in my memory, but I checked the sales slip from way back when and there is no "S," and in fact, I don't even know what the "S" stands for.
@@steveh3550 The "S" used to stand for "standard" which in the '60s (D18/28/35-S) and, I think in the '90s HD xxx VS were "Vintage Series" which meant 12 fret models in dread, 000, 00 and 0 models. Pretty rare now.
Always enjoyable to watch you chat guitars Andy. I recently bought a L’arrivée parlour. Lovely, a perfect sofa guitar. But someone a couple of hours from me is selling a Santa Cruz style 1… 😬
I'll await news !
@@SillyMoustache Not to be. Lovely sound, but some undeclared “history” evident… 🤨
@@Saladzingers Ah! Understand. Nothing wrong with L'arrivees though! Very under appreciated. I had a L'arrivee given to me, (long story) It was a SD50LSHTSB (12 fret dread, with large sound hole, and all over sunburst). It was fine, but I had my Collings dreads, and a friend who needed a good guitar. Enjoy your parlour!
Nicely covered, Andy , some great noodling on your lovely guitars . The "strumming" thing, kind of rankles me tho. To each his own I guess. 😏
Ok, Thanks for watching, Andy
Great videos! While I am planning to get a custom Smeck-style Gallagher, I think the obvious choice I’ve made for a daily-grab guitar is a little 12 fret 000 as a writing guitar. My dreadnaughts stay in the case unless I’m prepping a performance. I favor Silk and Bronze on both the 000 and dread. The dread intonation is improved, and I fingerpick exclusively. Sacrifice some power, but plugged in it does fine.
The Smeck has a very deep body, so not ideal for playing seated unless your posture is good. 000 is my main guitar for teaching and occasional small gatherings. I also feel "safer" with dreads on stage but gigs are few and very far between for this old guy. I don't plug in, I use a condenser mic. Thanks for watching.
I really like the 70s era takamine guitars if they have been taken care of by someone who truly appreciated what they have they are now a great find. I have a c132s nylon string classical guitar and I can play it curled up on the couch. My newer to me f362s is shaped wide and requires good posture and the reward is beautiful balanced tones. Unfortunately I bought 80/20 instead of phosphor bronze and I am still finding what sounds good on it. I really enjoy your videos thanks for taking the time to put them out.
hanks for your comments > i'munfamilia with Takamines i'm afraid.
@@SillyMoustache if you come across one it's worth playing
Let me chip in my two cents on Andy”s comments. First of all, I agree with everything he says. I would emphasize his point about putting the right guage strings on guitars. Like him, I put mediums on my big guitars and lights on my smaller guitars. If you put lights on big guitars you loose punch and volume, which is why you bought that big guitar in the first place. Mediums on small bodies can give you a crisper attack and more volume, but they can tear the guitar apart if it isn’t built for mediums. Always check with the builder before doing that. I hear people will sometimes put mediums on smaller guitars, but then tune the guitar a full step lower. I’m told (I’ve never tried it) that this gives you more volume and sustain over lights, but provides the feel of lights and does not put too much tension on the neck and bridge. Andy, I believe your countryman, Martin Simpson, does this on some of his guitars.
If you are not sure if you can flatpick a small guitar, check out any TH-cam video of David Rawlings (music partner of Gillian Welch) flatpicking his tiny 1935 Epiphone Olympic archtop. No, it isn’t bluegrass, but it is his own unique sound and pure magic. As for strumming, remember a tiny ukulele is almost always strummed! But if you want that classic full bluegrass sound, whether you are strumming or picking, you pretty have to go big.
There is really no substitue for a dreadnought, especially if you want to play bluegrass, but a jumbo can come close. My experience, however, is that a jumbo will tend to give you a somewhat more bass heavy sound. In any event, if you want to fit in at a bluegrass jam, take a dreadnought.
I strongly believe the best guitar size for most people who just play for themselves is an OM or OOO. It fits comfortably in your lap. It is not too thick or wide, so it is easy to reach around to the strings. It still has enough bass to be statisfying, plenty of volume, and a lovely balanced sound. If you get one with a short scale, the stings will have less tension and are easier to fret. A less obvious benefit is that, because it doesn’t project like a dreadnought, it tends sound as good to the player as to the listener. (I might also add, although Andy will likely roll his eyes, that you can play it flat on your back lying on the sofa after one beer too many. Trust me on this.) I use my big guitars for gigs and jamming, but my OM and OOO guitars are the ones I pick up day after day when I am home. They are like comfortable old friends.
Love your channel Andy. I always look forward to you videos.
Hi, thanks for your comments. I've met and chatted with Martin Simpson many times, but never asked about his choice of strings, and I stopped wondering about his tunings long ago. He's as much (or more) a guitar nerd than I am, but his style is far ahead of mine.
Thanks for this very good information. I always look forward to your videos. The information sheet that came with my Martin OM-28 stated not to put any strings heavier than light gauge12-54's on it. I understand everything you say about posture when playing but sometimes you just have to do what you must in order to play. I have back problems and will find myself slouched in an easy chair with a heating pad on my back playing any of my guitars. Could be anything from a OO to a Jumbo. Not the best but it works. My opinion is, pay attention to Andy because he is one of the best, but do anything you need to do to overcome any physical problems you have in order to keep playing. I'm betting Andy will agree.
I do George, but please seek professional guidance about that back issue! Thanks for watching, Andy .
@@SillyMoustache I have arthritis in my lower spine, and hands and fingers, and am followed by a doctor. Heat helps to relieve the pain. Sometimes it doesn't bother me for days. It is usually just an annoyance. At other times it drives me crazy.
Off topic, but I acquired a 2017 Santa Cruz OOO about a month ago. Oh my goodness, WOW! Absolute delight.
@@georgecrighton Hi again George, I'm sorry to hear that, and I'm glad that you are having medical advice. re guitars, whilst I use dreads for performance (not so much nowadays) I reckon that Martin got it right with 00 and 000 designs and I bet your santa cruz in great. Thanks for watching.
I’d add for the last question with a more mid-sized at home a grand auditorium/mini jumbo. Lower bout is usually between 15-16 inches and the depth 4.25-4.5.
I’ve never performed on an acoustic, just home play, but I just love the sound of a dreadnought, but not the volume. I’m a classic country southern boy and need that bass growl sometimes. Last year I got a Yamaha red label fg5 and I doubt I’ll ever get rid of it. It seems a bit more comfortable than other dreadnought (and I use a strap and often do a classical hybrid stance) and it isn’t a cannon.
A strap and classical stance ? If it works for you, fine, but my video is about playing western style. Thanks for your comments.
When I found the dreadnoughts became a strain on my right shoulder, I went to a 00015-S. I prefer the 12 fret for a number of reasons, but 000 seems to cover all the bases from home to studio to stage. With added internal (or under-saddle) pickups it will play any size venue.
Glad you've fund what works or you.
Love your videos man. Jealous of the facial hair- going for that myself one day. Also jealous of the collings!
haha! Hi George! I used to have a full beard, but the cancer treatment destroyed it on my left side (and a lot of other stuff). After six years it's growing back a little.
You wouldn't regret buying a Collings, but I've bought most used/online. As a friend once said to me "how bad could a Collings be? "
@@SillyMoustache keep up the good work man, I personally think it suits you! Thank u for the advice, if I ever save up enough I'll get a used one for sure! Take care man
Thank you, interesting. I find the Auden Emily Rose is a good all rounder for picking and strumming.
Hi PJ, I saw some Audens in Guitar Village once but have not played one. Thanks for watching.
Two other thoughts/options: a Grand Auditorium and a Martin 0000-28 or M-28. Thin like an OM or 000 with a large bottom bout. Taylor has a GT ( Grand Theater) that is perfect for a couch guitar. I like the 811e, Sitka over Rosewood, and 611e LTD Sitka over Maple. You can strum and flat pick them, but I am mostly finger style.
Whatever suits you, your back, shoulder, arms, hands, and of course your couch.
One last thought: Bedell made an OM that is as loud as a dreadnought. Fantastic sounding guitar. John at Acoustic Shoppe likes it.
Hi, I've heard of Bedell, but they aren't known of here in the UK AFAIK.
My thanks to Simon for asking the kinda question that makes us want to tune into Silly Moustache. Michael Watts briefly touched on this topic when covering your shared love of Issac Guillorys Martin D35 was it? Only he was covering it regarding using em for finger style. Having regretted selling my Yamaha L series OM on buying the smaller Brook Taw I’m now saving up for a dreadnought, only my preference is for the Gibson Southern Jumbo, J 45 or given the money a Dove. All of the above could be too much even second hand so I’ve been looking at the USA made Epiphone Texan a guitar that does sound different to the Gibson alternative imo
The Gibsons that you mention will all be 1.7" nut widths I believe. If that suits your hands, then fine. Thanks for writing in.
Just by way of an update, the advice and discussion here led me to a wonderful Santa Cruz D-12, which you could either describe as a small 12-fret dreadnought or a large 12-fret 000. Either way, it's exactly what I was looking for. I would probably never even have considered it if Andy hadn't suggested and demo'd a 12-fret 000, so a big thank you to Andy and everyone who offered their thoughts and suggestions so generously. I know very well how lucky I am to have such a beautiful guitar. My only excuse is I'm overdue a fiftieth birthday present!
Hi Simon, way back in '99 when I was offered a Bourgeois DS260, and Martin HD28VS and my first Collings DS2h I was also offered the SCGC D12. I do believe that it was exactly the same dimensions/size as the Martin and Collings but had a thinner neck. So, pretty sure it is standard "original" dread size.
@@SillyMoustache I don't know if it has changed since then. Current D-12 is full length but 15 1/4 across the lower bout and only 4 1/4 deep at the end pin. You definitely notice the depth compared to a standard 4 7/8 dread. It makes all the difference seated. Neck is along the lines of standard Collings modified V. Probably too thin for you, but works for me.
@@simonmiles1972 Well, I'll be hornswoggled ? Who#d a thought it? Thanks for the info. best, Andy
Regarding your zoom lessons I’ve always been hesitant due to the caring for my father. We’ve finally reached the stage where even between my mother and I we can no longer physically care for him with his advanced Alzheimer’s. Whilst I’ve reached a pretty decent standard I do think I would benefit from the zoom lessons as soon as we find a home for him, which could be within the month.
Andrew, I can empathise, as I cared for me Dad from 1979 until 1986. My Mum died two years earlier, and my sister wasn't prepared to be involved, so I had to wind up his business, and move him down with me as I commenced my new corporate career. It was very difficult. I'd be delighted to meet up via zoom for lessons - no commitments on you. Email me when your Dad is settled. Oh, one thing I must say, I felt as if I had betrayed my Dad by putting him n a home, but he loved it and his final time was happy and safe for him.
Let me know when you're ready.
@@SillyMoustache Oh I cant tell you how good it is to hear that your Father took to his care home. Despite even the Carers telling us how well we’ve done to carry on for so long it’s still hard not to feel like that. The difference between my grandmas dementia and my dads Alzheimer’s is that my grandma would allow people to care for her, whilst my dad just doesn’t understand and won’t let us care for him now. I still have your email so I’ll be in touch when ready.
@@andrewbowen6875 Yes, please do that.
When I had an archtop, that strap on the instrument made just about any position comfortable for playing it. It had a thinner body than my dreadnought. I think thinness is a fact for couch playing.
It is, but I'm not encouraging the couch slouch really.
Just sharing ,
I play the Tenor Ukulele, the Parlour Guitar (Eastman E10P) and the OM guitar (Eastman E10OM).
Guitar strings are 11s
I may change to 12s at the next change just to see if there's a perceptible difference.
Thanks for all your videos
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Andy
Thanks for watching.
Hello there ! I have been thinking about buying an Eastman E20 oo guitar, I always wanted to have a slotted headstock small bodied guitar made by Martin but they are hard to come by and pretty expensive. The aforementioned Eastman that I saw at my local guitar shop has an imperfection, one of the pyramids of the bridge is not chiseled right. Although it doesn’t affect the sound of the instrument in anyway, but 0:01 it’s an eyesore. Anyway, thanks for your very informative helpful video. Cheers !
Hi, there is a great many Eastman guitars available at present, and the 0 and 00 models seem to have proven very popular. If you feel the defect will affect your enjoyment of this particular guitar. Reject it and seek out another.
This is an interesting topic to research. I have orchestra, grand auditorium and dreadnoughts, and habitually use 12-53 phosphor bronze strings on all of them. Usually D'Addario EJ16, although I've been pleased with coated strings. Even at the same gauge though, I've had to adjust truss rods with these, so there must be a difference in overall tension. Can't remember whether it's the EJ16s or the coated ones that are tighter though! I'm a strummer and fingerpicker, and for me the grand auditorium works for everything. On a sofa, I do occasionally slouch, comfortably even with a dread. Going back to string gauges and tensions, I've never felt that one guitar size is bass-or-treble heavy, and might benefit from different strings. Every guitar player should find what suits them, I suppose.
Hi, I'm guessing that you mean an "Orchestra Model (i.e. a 14 fret 000, a grand auditorium ??? is that the new 0000, or the "J" as in J-40? As I think I said, some prefer lighter strings than one might assume, and that is your choice - I didn't mean to infer that it is "wrong". If the J and the Dread were set up for mediums and you fit lights, it is likely that you'd need to tighten the truss rod slightly.
@@SillyMoustache Thanks. The orchestra's a Crafter TCO 35. Not sure how that relates to Martin etc., but it has a small body. Surprisingly loud though. My grand auditoriums are Crafter GAE-8 & GAE-9 respectively, and my dread is a Tanglewood TW1000H. When I had to adjust the truss rod, I hadn't changed gauges, but had gone from EJ16s to Elixirs, both 12-53 (light). Same gauges, different tensions for some unknown reason. In years gone by I've tried both lighter and heavier strings, but always end up back with 12s.
@@ParaBellum2024 Hi, I'm unfamiliar with Crafter electros, so could not comment on heir truss rod settings. As they are, effectively electric guitars, then body resonance is not your prime concern as you can always turn up whatever controls your guitars or amp has.
Most string brands have tension info on the packaging or on their websites, but not all. sorry I can't help more.
@@SillyMoustache My Crafter guitars are acoustics (albeit with undersaddle pickups).
@@ParaBellum2024 Understood, but you paid at least half the purchase price for the electrics, so their focus would surely be mainly about amplified sound.
Hi Andy, thanks for another video. What are your thoughts on the L-00 flat top designs in general?
A nice design. in 2016, i went out to buy one - came home with my Waterloo WL12.
I do not struggle with the sheer size of a dreadnought, but the large depth is the thing that why I can say that I do not like that type of guitar. There is something going on with the shape of square shoulder dread I feel not comfortable to play, maybe I should give slope shoulder 12th fret dreadnought a try and see how does it fit me. I currently have a nice short scale Sigma 000ME and it is a breeze to play. I had a Washburn slightly larger than 000, between grand concert and auditorium, and it had fit me perfectly but it fell off of a strap and got damaged badly. I am a big pig, 5ft 11in and I cannot see the reason why I cannot handle the big acoustic guitars. I like the sound of open chords the most and I am a heavy handed strummer who is looking for a good mid size guitar.
Large bodied guitars were never really intended for playing seated as were the 000 and smaller. designs. Perhaps I might help you with one-to-one zoom meeting about adjusting ones posture and breathing might help?
Right on point, currently looking for a good all rounder for home, got it now, Eastman OM. Now, rosewood or Mahogany, Sitka or Adirondack, cured or natural? This could take some time…..
Sid, this video was about the size for home use. The tonewoods are a personal, and budgetary choice. Thanks for watching.
first always go with manufacturer's recommendations, i put heavy gauge on a lowden o-10 jumbo, bad idea, as the bridge lifted. If you aren't aware of the design of the bridge, no bridge pins, only strings straight through and over saddle, therefor giving no extra bridge to top support via strings through the top. an all time screw up on my part. would like another lowden someday, i'll treat her better i swear!! lol
Many years ago there was a "trend" in putting heavy gauge string on Martin dreads - in the early '70s when i was buying and selling Martin dreads, I saw many such ruined guitars. I did something similar to a National. Luckily I say the problem quickly and took them off.
Very interesting video as always. On a slightly unrelated issue, do you think string tension is affected by being a 12 or 14 fret with all other things equal, especially scale length? Reason I ask is that I played a 12 fret aj a few years ago that, to me, played like a much smaller guitar, but I passed it up as, in the long run wasn't convinced that I'd get on with the longer scale length.
Hi, Many get confused about this. 12 fretters came first. 0, and 00 are short scale (24.9") whether 12 or 14 frets. dreads are 25.4" (standard) whether 12 or 14. 12 fret 000 are standard scale (as are OMs) but the 14 fret 000 is short scale (?) 0 and 00 are also the shorter scale.
Great video! Do/Did you ever play a nylon/classical guitar? I like them for just a little fingerpicking and noodling, and have 2 1970's higher quality with "brighter" strings for such use. (One is a full size, so 000 like, and the other is 7/8, so 00 like.) The 000 was heavily abused when I got it so I sanded down the cedar top and put a thin shellac finish on...Man it is loud! With a light touch they are so much louder than my steel string guitars.
Hi, I have certainly played them, but never owned one for my own. I've been thinking about getting one.
@@SillyMoustache I have a fingertip injury from when I was 6 years old, and the softer string classical guitar helped get me started with callouses there. They make great fingerpicking guitars.
Any thoughts on Mahogany or Rosewood on an OM? I’ve heard so many on TH-cam but ultimately only through speakers.
Anyone, what would you chose and why?
Hi Sid, as you may have noticed, I only play 12 frets so I don't have a 14 fretter like an OM. I have three hog 6 strings, plus two hog 12 strings. I also have four rose guitars. I prefer the martin style "trim" of the rosewood models. but in the end it is the sound of the individual instrument.
@@SillyMoustache Thanks for the reply Andy, I think I’m preferring rosewood on the smaller bodies
Whatever feels right to u is the correct answer nothing more nothing less.
Yup.
At 8:35, you say "You don't want an O or a OO, I can't think why you wouldn't"...Did I hear wrong, because if I did not, the sentence would be contradictory. Also, do you favour rosewood back and sides over mahogany and, say, walnut?
Good spot, actually there was a half swallowed "If.." as in "If you don't want ..." so my original point was that for playing at home seated the smaller the guitar body the better, but I can understand that my diction was less than perfect. Thank for pointing that out.
I like your "silly" moustache! 👨🏼
Thanks Charlotte.
When I bought a new Taylor 810 dreadnaught years ago I had it setup with light strings out of the gate. Loved it.
Bought a Martin HD28 and played it for two years with mediums. Largely due to what you’re saying. It came with mediums and mediums should vibrate the top more. It’s what Martin recommend and all that. It was exhausting. Once I switched to lights (12s) I immediately loved playing it more. Partly this may be down to often switching between my other smaller guitars, I don’t know. I do know I will never use mediums again.
Loss of volume on the two guitars is minimal. While playing within a band I’m plugged in anyway. When it comes to tone, I feel the tone is better overall because I play it better.
Anyway, my two cents. Love your videos and your unique strumming style. Btw, do you use an amplifier when gigging? I think this would make for an interesting video.
Hi Mark, thank you for your perspective. You have a point and you remind me that I should say that my utterences are "my opinion" only. When I gig now, I don't plug in, I have shed my p.a. gear as my gigs got smaller and since my illness in 2017, they are just my club and the few other remaining local clubs. I have just a Bose L1 plus an extension speaker and use just one large condenser Rode mic. I have boxes of various mics and leads but I'm too old to lug stuff like that around and now only play solo, as my last trio didn't survive the covid years. Thanks for your comments, and for watvhing my videos.
Andrew, as much as I would enjoy a chat with you, I have never considered paying for a friendly conversation. Perhaps when I think of something, I shall ask. If only I was in your neighborhood...
I don't see well enough to download numbers any longer...
We could arrange a zoom meeting if you wished.