Best sounding is very subjective. Yamaha do make some nice instruments, but compared to hand made small luthier acoustics, they are not really anywhere near best. This particular one, sounds good, if you like a bassy, slightly muddy, Martin-ish sound, country music style. If a full sound is required, then yes this Yamaha does the job, but it does lack balance, separation, clarity, and does not have great natural harmonics to my ears. More delicate fingerstyle music does not sound good on this guitar. My guitar hero Bert Jansch played Yahama guitars, started with an FG1500, then he played LL11 for his most known years, and had an LL400 as back up. It wasn't the greatest sounding instrument, but the way Bert attacked the strings gave him his sound. Had Lowden (for example) been around when he started, I think that would have been ideal for him.
in japan at the time even if it was full price, it would've been about $500. I don't know what's more astounding from that time period (through mid 80s), how the japanese could make guitars for half of what domestic manufacturers charged, or how they would get marked up 2 or 3 times the price when sold in the US and probably not by the japanese manufacturers but rather, the greedy mark up artists in the states.
John thanks for your honest and unbiased review of Yamaha's. There is an overwhelming misconception in the US that Yamaha are either 'cheap beginner' or 'great value' guitars only. In fact, they are great guitars up there with,and at times, better than either Martin or Taylor. From the Red Label FS/FG guitars they are the equal of Martin's and Taylors. As you mention, the LL series are often better. And I actually own a Martin, which I love, but would buy an LL before another Martin. Thanks again.
I'm 66 started playing at age 11. I can't think of any guitar I haven't played that I wanted to. Own a HD 28, D18, D15, a Martin custom like a D18, 2 Gibson HummingBirds. My favorite however is the Yamaha Red Label FG5 bought new a couple months ago made in the Japan shop. It's pretty much like the D18 except the workmanship is better. Thats a big statement but when I got the FG5 I had nothing to do to it. With my D18 and the 2 I owned but sold and the HD28 I had to have the nut, saddle, the frets worked on plus neck adjusted. The FG5 came perfect and sounds like a old D18 plays smooth as butter. All for a shade over $1000....crazy price for the quality and sound. I never bought any guitar not made in the USA until this FG5.
Coming from someone who has played such "high end" guitars I'm grateful for your thoughts sir. Would you recommend the FG5 for bluegrass ? I'm basically looking for a loud Dred.
@@mcdee56 I bought it 1 1/2 years ago at Sweetwater. Price has increased a little since then. I called Sweetwater asked to be put on the list the next day they called me back and asked if I wanted the one they just got in yes I took it. It’s not that easy now I’d like to get my grandson one and can’t find one. I may give him mine. It’s an incredible acoustic probably my favorite anytime I play with my grandson he wants the FG5.
Oh man John 🙂 I can understand you. Just today I get my China build LJ 16 A.R.E. in sunburst. I did fell in love, from the first moment I played on it. This Masterpiece of handcrafting in your hand is a part of the great handcrafting hirstory of Japane. May be the sound is not ways better, but it does´nt metter. Man like you are helping keeping handcrafting alive. I´m a handcrafter too. And so I thank you! God bless you!
I am in love with my FG 500. It belonged to my father and since his passing, I have inherited it. It's a fine, fine instrument and the sound... oh sooooo sweet
I can relate to so much of this. My wife has an FG-200 from the late '70s that sounds great, and I have a CJ-838s from 1979 that I absolutely love. Thanks for all you do.
I’ve got a 1970 Fg model that I would love for you to hear. It will literally warm your heart when you listen to it, I mean you can feel it in your soul. It was definitely made by loving hands without a doubt, very very special guitar.
I have a Yamaha LS-TA, and I think it sounds amazing for the price; I can't imagine getting to own and play one of these handmade Yamaha guitars. They just sound so good. I have been shying away from Martin, and I never got along with the sound of a Taylor. I am glad I found your channel. 🐰❤️🎸🎵🤝✌️
Wicked series of videos J.P. I too really appreciate the craftsmanship and tone out of these guitars. A couple of points to note. The L*26 is specified as 'rosewood' vs L*36+ 'Indian Rosewood'. I recall reading somewhere that this was in reference to the 26 series using an indonesian rosewood of some sort. The 26 series is finished in poly, whereas the 36+ are finished in Nitrocellulose lacquer. Pedantic, I know!
The right thumb, the most underutilized digit on a guitarists hands. If you learn to use it..boy you just opened up a whole new world. Beautiful playing John.
...it was the place were many things were made quite well. Cars, motorcycles, other musical instruments, cameras and lenses, baseball gloves, bicycles- many things. Making high quality products for the masses made Japan respectable. Prior to that time, Made in Japan wasn't taken seriously.
Guitars, great. You thoug hUncle JP are something else! U r awesome and each time I watch your videos I'm astonished at how well u play just off the hook and with so much emotion and sincerity. What is it that drives or inspires you, and can you help me to be inspired to play a fraction as whole heartedly as you do? Also I hope my calling you Uncle JP isn't offensive or ass-kissy sounding,it's not meant to be just later in the night when i find myself listening to your music I'm transported to a wonderful place. So Thanks ever so much.☺
I have had a Yamaha FG 9 M for about a month. It is the best guitar I have ever played. I have owned Martins, Gibsons, Taylors a Rainsong and others. The Yamaha will be the one I keep to the end and pass on to family. It is an amazing guitar.
John, I quite agree with your opinion of the FG-1500. I had the good fortune of acquiring an FG-1500 in 1975. It had a great balanced tone, clarity and note separation. Choice woods that were visually stunning, especially the 3-piece back with its beautifully flamed maple centre piece. It handled everything I threw at it (musically speaking) without it ever soundng muddy. It was certainly equal to the OOO-28, M-36 and J-40M that I picked up later. Although I gave it to a niece as a graduation present years ago, I still have fond memories of it.
My goodness that guitar sound absolutely incredible. When you drop C'd thatvole girl I fully expected it to loose at least half its punch. I swear it seemed to resonate more. The clarity under fingerpicking conditions is second to none I've ever heard. But,....... when you took off in drop D?? My jaw hit the floor. Holy moly. The light strums sounded like Angel's humming. That guitar is a masterpiece. Period. Destroys every Martin I've ever heard.
I have a 1979 L-5 Nippon Gakki made with Dalbergia Latifolia Indian Rosewood on back and sides and Spruce Top. Ebony Fretboard and Bridge with Ebony bridge pins and Bone Nut and Saddle. I set it up low action medium phosphorus bronze 92/8 strings.
Helped to convince me to order one. Have an LL16 but ready for the next level. Eventually when it gets here. What is with these deliveries???? But the LJ26 will be my choice.
I teach guitar for a living and have been playing for many many years. There is a trend that many of you my younger students like which is these young guitar players arranging pop tunes for solo guitar with this thumb slap style. It has zero energy and soul. I think this may be a consequence in part of not performing in front of an audience. It wonderful to hear you play. Everything you do swings and has a foot tapping groove. I love your passion for music and guitars as well. Thanks for sharing
I'm very impressed with the sound & quality of Yamaha guitars ! I have a 1980 G-250s classical that I bought new for 250.00 !! The quality is amazing & also have a Yamaha eterna from the 90's. A cheaper line of theirs, but it plays well & is very loud . Love your channel. ! Thanks for sharing this gorgeous Yamaha. !
G-250 (as well as the g245 and 255ii) is an amazing guitar. The choice of woods for their all solid tops is impeccable. They were technically mass produced but a good design and good materials usually gives you......a good guitar!
My first quality guitar was an L20a which I bought in 1981, all solid woods which I played to death and was as tough as old boots. I finally gave it to my son and recently replaced it with an LL26 which is more than a worthy replacement.
Yup, still have my old Yamaha I got in ‘76 for about 100 bucks. Can’t kill it. I am in the Canadian Forces so went with me through my travels. I was recently at L&M in Brampton, ON and the fellow recommended for guitars 8-1200 range, he grabbed the Yamaha first for me....played it but prefer a 1 3/4 nut and not 1 11/16 so ended up with a Martin DX1AE which sounded and played to me the best. Good to know the way you put it and the Japanese are extremely caring in their work and precise. Beauty sounds !
I got an FG745 from my dad's passing..I played it for years..took it to Guitar Center for refrett..as there were no frets left ..literally played that much..And they screwed the crap out of that guitar for 150 bucks..I was pissed..lesson learned..Just purchased the LL16DR..OMG..totally amazing
Hey John, thanks much for giving lots of great insight on Yamaha guitars in general and particularly on the "Holy Trinity"! Very much enjoyed it! I own a lovely LJ-26 since 2008 and I freak out everytime I pick it up over the fact how fantastic it sounds and plays. I own a couple guitars, all great, like them all, but I love this one! Best!
LL10 baby! I had to remind Yamaha about that and the anniversary of his death coincided with the release of the recent LL series. Of course nothing was done about it. I guess it made too much sense?! 🤦♂️
Yes! He is one of the best. Bert's main guitars were Yamaha from '72 (or '73) until he passed in 2011. Other than a couple custom made boutique models like his Armstrong. In order: FG-1500, L-25AT, LL-11E (with an LLX-400 as backup)
Got one of these today and, yeah, this video is mainly to blame :) It's second hand, built in April 2021. Neck is so comfortable. Nice big low end. Rosewood makes it sound more "metallic" than my mahogany Simon & Patrick Woodland Pro Folk, which I like for strumming, but not what I prefer in some registers of fingerstyle, but that's inherent in the nature of the tonewoods.
So true. My first guitar was a 1972 Yamaha classical G180 if I remember correctly. I eventually upgraded in the mid 90’s to two Brune’s, a cedar Fleta and his signature spruce when you could get them in less than six months. While that Yamaha was no Brune’ it was an outstanding guitar I played until it was near sawdust. Now my couple Yamahas are of the steel string variety. Much better guitars than they’re generally given credit for. I have a Yairi that is as good as any other classical I’ve played. The Japanese have a long and storied tradition in guitar building. I very much enjoy your content and especially your chops young man.
I was really enjoying this until you got to drop D and now I'm weeping......just wow, double drop D would be super haunting, I thank you for bringing my attention to Yamaha guitars, I have never thought of them in this way.
Like you said, I have a FG140 Red Label Nippon Gakki 1967 guitar, still playing with it and sounds amazing! It was my 12th anniversary gift from my Dad in 1967! I also have a Boucher and the Yamaha FG180 50th Anniversary. Don’t need anything else. A happy fingerstyle guitarist from Quebec
Hi JP, Sam W. here....nice to talk to you a few weeks back. Rest assured that your brother's FG1500 is in good hands and is played every day!! (I just texted you a few clips.) And as Claudio says, Bert Jansch was the reason I got my first FG1500 back in the mid 70's,
I bought a new LS16 (made in China) Yamaha in 2015 for $900 and it’s been a fantastic guitar. It sounds and plays so well it’s really hard for me to justify buying another guitar ever again. And it’s so well built it should outlast me. I just broke out the tuner this morning, after not tuning it for at least a month, and I only had to adjust the B-string. I’ve heard not having to tune much is a sign of a well built guitar, I don’t know, but if it is then there you go. My dad always made fun of Yamaha because in his mind Yamaha made dirt bikes. I think that has probably hurt their brand maybe more than they realize. Many of us Americans imagine a Yamaha worker screwing in an engine part one day, and then putting on a guitar neck the next and just think ‘how good could their guitars be?’. ...Mountain Blade... how cool of a name is that?!
I've had a soft spot in my heart for Yamaha's my entire life. My Dad gigged for over 40 yrs with an early 70's FG. Nothing like a big fat g-run on that ole bad boy. Played it until he could no longer play it easily. Fretboard was a pitted mess by the time he was done his local music career. Still have it tucked away though.
Thanks so much sir!! I researched between Gibson, martin and Taylor and I definitely with out a doubt identity the superiority of the built sound and Finnish of YAMAHA. I bought a LLTA model and I’m so happy but also I paid 1/3 of the price compared the other brands. Thanks Sir for your honest videos and thanks to YAMAHA for your honest guitars!!!!
I had a couple over the years the best one burned in a house fire that my ex had! They are amazing guitars. My wife's cousin bought one of the L series and he says it beats his D-28 and his Guild Dreadnaught hands down. I just bought another Martin and was lookin at the Yamaha's I wish I would have!
I had a couple of FG180s. Good solid guitars. Pacifica electrics were nice, too. When John Denver and Bert Jansch were playing them, that was enough for me.
I have a circa '78 FG 340..plays better every year. Bought it new,..it's in near perfect shape. It will take any tuning I throw at it with solid projection. I use John Pearse SL550's on it mostly. It was my main guitar, before I came upon a Martin J40...but I play them both regularly, even in performance. The FG gives me that D-35 sound.Yamaha has some real gems in their line for sure JP
A fabulous guitar, very clean and fantastic sound. Great playing by the way. I have a nearly 40 years old Yamaha FG 375 S, Still a great guitar. You can take it out of the case after a half year and it is still in tune.
I used to own a 1990s L-11 Yamaha played it alot .Sounded great for the money ,did a recording of it my channel of it on the song "greenweaves" just before I sold it. I recently bought a Recording King RD 328 from your recommendations J.P. excellent guitar ,Love it.
Great discussion of Yamaha, including why some people dismiss them. These are holy grail guitars in every price range. Back in the 70s, when I was at school veryone wanted a red label 150. Last year I got a 2nd hand LL16 - all solid for under £400. You are playing some fantastic guitars, but frankly, even without custom shop, Yamaha would still be extraordinary guitars. In passing, I should mention that plastic pegs are ubiquitous even on high end guitars because almost everyone has an opinion about pegs and changes them out to their faves. Same as you say about pickup systems
This is the best review of the Yamaha L series out there. The instruments are incredible values and a pleasure to play. I've never bought one new, because they are very hard to find at retailers. Purchased all of them thru Reverb, eBay and Facebook marketplace and taken the chance. Picked up the LL26 for $1200 in pristine condition and it rivals my prized Martin J40 which leaves the house on special occasions. Will say it does not sound like a dreadnought, to me it is more balanced and piano like in it's tone, but that is just me. Great review, great picking!
That would be me. I'll be 40 this Christmas and I've got a little laminate Yamaha about my age and I'd never sell it. It's unbelievable. It looks like it's 80 years old and I just love it.
Dear God, THAT guitar sounded FRIKKIN AMAZING when you ultimately picked it up and started playing. Wow. Love Yammy's but it took me by surprise a little. Lol. I love the OG headstock. Reminds me of my Dad's 70'S Yamaha. Thing was a beast when it came to that big bass bound bluegrassers are always searching for.
Hi J. P; I really enjoyed your video, brings back a lot of memories. I bought a Yamaha FG-235 I think that is the right model #, it was one great old guitar, if I wanted to take it to the cottage no problem, could take it anywhere and it did not have to be retuned. It was great. Thanks !!!
Hey J.P. I met you when I played at Shetland FF the same year you did, 2012 I recall..Blown away seeing you play with Bill mate..And yep I still own Yamaha's ;-) Hope all is well..
My 1st guitar was an FG300 purchased in Japan while I was stationed there in the Navy 1971. Don't have any longer "sadly", but still play a Yamaha every day!
I just ordered a brand new YAMAHA FG-840 from The Music Zoo here on Long Island NY. While I await its arrival via Fed-X I searched videos to once again hear its tonal qualities. I came across your excellent vid..Best of all in Utubeland
Sounds real good. Looks like Spruce over Indian RW. That Gibson J-185 shape is one of best. Add 1/2” to the depth and you got a Boomer. My 1st guitar was a Yamaha Classical entry level 1970’. I’ve had numerous Yamahas never a Custom ship model. I Build my own Customs. My stock of seasoned wood is 50+ years seasoned. I favor old 50s and earlier Gibson’s for Vintage. But I have a 1968’ Yamaha FG-110 -paid $ 20. Had broken neck at the heel. Repaired it 18 years ago-it’s a killer guitar but not even close to my Customs. Neither is 95% of the Vintage Martins And Gibson’s I pick up occasionally. But I must say-that there Yamaha is a CANNON!!!! An old friend I’ve known since 69’ bought a scarce brand new 1972’ Yamaha FG-295S-bought it in 1972’ and Still owns it. Killer guitar- only Acoustic he’s ever owned.
My FG441s holds open C wonderfully. I am so addicted to this guitar. I'm hoping I can find another Yamaha that does everything as well as this inexpensive 90s Yamaha does. I just kept it in a Cmaj7 tuning for a couple years. It's so rich and wonderful it really is as addictive as the finest, high thebaine opium poppy there is. I'm just hoping I can find a fancy Yamaha that does as much as this one. I just don't know if it's a matter of luck. I bought the guitar at Barbaras Guitars in DC in 96-97 and the luthier there said he'd done some work on the FG441s and though it was amazing. I think what he was really saying was, the neck got broken off and he did a nice reset. I don't know. Sorry to blow up your channel's comments. I just found your channel and the Yamaha forum. I'm in my mid 50s and I got this idea in my head that it was time to buy a "nice" guitar. I thought about doing it in the 80s. There was a little guitar shop that had a $1400 acoustic by a company I'd never heard of. $1400! That was like a million dollars to me. It was amazing. It was a Lowden. I should have pimped myself out and bought it. I was pretty enough. But no, I was stuck on buying rack effects and trying to be Fripp/Belew/ Frisell/ Holdsworth/Frith/ Alll the Beefheart 70s-90s guitarists, Richard Thompson and Hedges at the same time. My youth made me lean toward the fancy gadgets. Now, after playing this humble 441s fro 20 some years, it's time for something cushy. Something with a lower acton. I'll never have the kind of guitarist you have.... although if I sold my modular synth I could buy a Collings... but I really do thing an FGX5 will do the trick if I can manage to find one in the beginning of 2021. Should have the money together by then.
Japanese built instruments are very well made and endure. I just received a forty year old Daion MARK V from my father and it’s a great instrument which has stood the test of time. Cedar top and rosewood back and sides with bone nut and saddle etc. The rosewood MAY be rosewood that is under a cites jurisdiction as I discovered on a thread recently so no US travel for this one I think in the future. I never discount a builder due to geographic location. TH-cam and the internet at large have opened a world of contradictions to the purist. Great work in these vids JP.
I'd really like to try the Yamaha FG5/FGX5 or FS5/FSX5. But I've only been playing for 2 years so it might be too good for my playing 🙂. Greetings from Iceland.
Yamaha is the only guitar that owns its own factories in China for the commercial line. They have their own QC in their own factory. The othe guitar company contract factories in China to put their own labels on them granted some give them the wood the want used in their guitars
I've held onto my Yamaha LL-15 while others have come and gone. Now, it's 35 years old and only getting better. I specially ordered the guitar with solid rosewood back/sides and Honduran mahogany neck.
John, thanks for the great review. And: awesome playing! Could listen for hours!!! Out of curiosity: comparing an LJ and LL, let's say both being the 36 range, which from your POV is the better choice for Fingerpicking? I love Dreadnought sound but those medium Jumbo Yamaha sounds awesome! Appreciate your opinion. Thanks and play on!
I was dumfounded by the astoundingly beautiful sounds of heavenly music you just put in my once sleeping ears... Totally amazing , God bless ,, thank you... where can I get one compreable....
That guitar sounds increadable, better than any guitar i heard on you tube! I own a 30 year old Yamaha 441s, also a great sounding and playing guitar, wanted to buy another dreadnought, i tried many but no other guitar can beat mine!
Thanks man, for sharing great guitar videos with us. My first guitar was a Yamaha my Dad bought me in a small music store in 1970. It was a Red Label, but I don't remember the exact number. It was a good guitar to learn on and I wish I had it now. I'm 68 and have had several guitars since then, but right now I am looking to buy my last guitar, and I'm considering a Yamaha LL6. Would you recommend it for an older guy that just wants a guitar to play around the house? Thanks again!
That has to be the best sounding acoustic guitar I've ever heard on youtube. I don't know if it's the tunings, the mic, or the playing, but holy cow!
Best sounding is very subjective.
Yamaha do make some nice instruments, but compared to hand made small luthier acoustics, they are not really anywhere near best.
This particular one, sounds good, if you like a bassy, slightly muddy, Martin-ish sound, country music style.
If a full sound is required, then yes this Yamaha does the job, but it does lack balance, separation, clarity, and does not have great natural harmonics to my ears.
More delicate fingerstyle music does not sound good on this guitar.
My guitar hero Bert Jansch played Yahama guitars, started with an FG1500, then he played LL11 for his most known years, and had an LL400 as back up.
It wasn't the greatest sounding instrument, but the way Bert attacked the strings gave him his sound.
Had Lowden (for example) been around when he started, I think that would have been ideal for him.
I have one, and they are quite beautiful, not quite the 'boom' of a Martin but OH WOW, mine is the cutaway electric version 😊😊😊
@@DjNikGnashersnah
@@DH-og5yr nah what ?
If you're going to disagree you need to do a bit more than that, otherwise it makes you look like a brain dead troll.
John, your brothers FG1500 costing $1k in '73 was the equivalent of $5,800 in today's money, serious money.
in japan at the time even if it was full price, it would've been about $500. I don't know what's more astounding from that time period (through mid 80s), how the japanese could make guitars for half of what domestic manufacturers charged, or how they would get marked up 2 or 3 times the price when sold in the US and probably not by the japanese manufacturers but rather, the greedy mark up artists in the states.
@@daw162 If a guitar cost $500 in 1973 in Japan it would be the equivalent of $3,431.33 today.
Absolutely beautiful... I’m blown away by the depth and colours of sound...
John thanks for your honest and unbiased review of Yamaha's. There is an overwhelming misconception in the US that Yamaha are either 'cheap beginner' or 'great value' guitars only. In fact, they are great guitars up there with,and at times, better than either Martin or Taylor. From the Red Label FS/FG guitars they are the equal of Martin's and Taylors. As you mention, the LL series are often better. And I actually own a Martin, which I love, but would buy an LL before another Martin.
Thanks again.
I'm 66 started playing at age 11. I can't think of any guitar I haven't played that I wanted to. Own a HD 28, D18, D15, a Martin custom like a D18, 2 Gibson HummingBirds. My favorite however is the Yamaha Red Label FG5 bought new a couple months ago made in the Japan shop. It's pretty much like the D18 except the workmanship is better. Thats a big statement but when I got the FG5 I had nothing to do to it. With my D18 and the 2 I owned but sold and the HD28 I had to have the nut, saddle, the frets worked on plus neck adjusted. The FG5 came perfect and sounds like a old D18 plays smooth as butter. All for a shade over $1000....crazy price for the quality and sound. I never bought any guitar not made in the USA until this FG5.
Coming from someone who has played such "high end" guitars I'm grateful for your thoughts sir. Would you recommend the FG5 for bluegrass ? I'm basically looking for a loud Dred.
@@theguitarschoolproject3785
Yes！ FG5 or FGX5👍
Where did you find it, please?
@@mcdee56 I bought it 1 1/2 years ago at Sweetwater. Price has increased a little since then. I called Sweetwater asked to be put on the list the next day they called me back and asked if I wanted the one they just got in yes I took it. It’s not that easy now I’d like to get my grandson one and can’t find one. I may give him mine. It’s an incredible acoustic probably my favorite anytime I play with my grandson he wants the FG5.
Oh man John 🙂 I can understand you. Just today I get my China build LJ 16 A.R.E. in sunburst. I did fell in love, from the first moment I played on it.
This Masterpiece of handcrafting in your hand is a part of the great handcrafting hirstory of Japane. May be the sound is not ways better, but it does´nt metter. Man like you are helping keeping handcrafting alive. I´m a handcrafter too. And so I thank you! God bless you!
I am in love with my FG 500. It belonged to my father and since his passing, I have inherited it.
It's a fine, fine instrument and the sound... oh sooooo sweet
It's always a special kick to hear you get jacked up about Yamaha. Lots of great little insights. Thank you!
I have the LJ36 bought it when I was stationed in Japan, great instrument, my dad took it and gave me his Martin D28
I can relate to so much of this. My wife has an FG-200 from the late '70s that sounds great, and I have a CJ-838s from 1979 that I absolutely love. Thanks for all you do.
I’ve got a 1970 Fg model that I would love for you to hear. It will literally warm your heart when you listen to it, I mean you can feel it in your soul. It was definitely made by loving hands without a doubt, very very special guitar.
i have 2 yamahas LL16D and a Yamaha LL16-12 ARE i absolutely love them they both sound amazing
I have a Yamaha LS-TA, and I think it sounds amazing for the price; I can't imagine getting to own and play one of these handmade Yamaha guitars. They just sound so good. I have been shying away from Martin, and I never got along with the sound of a Taylor. I am glad I found your channel. 🐰❤️🎸🎵🤝✌️
Wicked series of videos J.P. I too really appreciate the craftsmanship and tone out of these guitars. A couple of points to note. The L*26 is specified as 'rosewood' vs L*36+ 'Indian Rosewood'. I recall reading somewhere that this was in reference to the 26 series using an indonesian rosewood of some sort. The 26 series is finished in poly, whereas the 36+ are finished in Nitrocellulose lacquer. Pedantic, I know!
The right thumb, the most underutilized digit on a guitarists hands. If you learn to use it..boy you just opened up a whole new world. Beautiful playing John.
...it was the place were many things were made quite well. Cars, motorcycles, other musical instruments, cameras and lenses, baseball gloves, bicycles- many things. Making high quality products for the masses made Japan respectable. Prior to that time, Made in Japan wasn't taken seriously.
Guitars, great.
You thoug hUncle JP are something else! U r awesome and each time I watch your videos I'm astonished at how well u play just off the hook and with so much emotion and sincerity. What is it that drives or inspires you, and can you help me to be inspired to play a fraction as whole heartedly as you do?
Also I hope my calling you Uncle JP isn't offensive or ass-kissy sounding,it's not meant to be just later in the night when i find myself listening to your music I'm transported to a wonderful place. So Thanks ever so much.☺
That yamaha sounds great.
Think I need to make room for one.
Awsome playing
I bought the LL16 in Sunburst because of your video. I have been an FG man since 1983. Thanks for all of these Yamaha Videos.
I have had a Yamaha FG 9 M for about a month. It is the best guitar I have ever played. I have owned Martins, Gibsons, Taylors a Rainsong and others. The Yamaha will be the one I keep to the end and pass on to family. It is an amazing guitar.
Great review - thanks! And LOVED the Bruce Cockburn instrumental (in Drop C)!
Holy shit! That guitar sounds amazing!!! Hard to believe. I’m sure it can easily compete with most Bouchers
Really enjoyed this video. Great little chat session about a great guitar company. Lotta respect for Yamaha acoustic guitars for sure ❤
John, I quite agree with your opinion of the FG-1500.
I had the good fortune of acquiring an FG-1500 in 1975. It had a great balanced tone, clarity and note separation. Choice woods that were visually stunning, especially the 3-piece back with its beautifully flamed maple centre piece. It handled everything I threw at it (musically speaking) without it ever soundng muddy. It was certainly equal to the OOO-28, M-36 and J-40M that I picked up later.
Although I gave it to a niece as a graduation present years ago, I still have fond memories of it.
My goodness that guitar sound absolutely incredible. When you drop C'd thatvole girl I fully expected it to loose at least half its punch. I swear it seemed to resonate more. The clarity under fingerpicking conditions is second to none I've ever heard. But,....... when you took off in drop D?? My jaw hit the floor. Holy moly. The light strums sounded like Angel's humming. That guitar is a masterpiece. Period. Destroys every Martin I've ever heard.
It's nice to have reviews made by a guy who can actually play
I have a 1979 L-5 Nippon Gakki made with Dalbergia Latifolia Indian Rosewood on back and sides and Spruce Top. Ebony Fretboard and Bridge with Ebony bridge pins and Bone Nut and Saddle. I set it up low action medium phosphorus bronze 92/8 strings.
Helped to convince me to order one. Have an LL16 but ready for the next level. Eventually when it gets here. What is with these deliveries???? But the LJ26 will be my choice.
Amazing playing man, unbelievable. Yamaha's have always been amazing guitars.
Beautiful fingerstyle playing. Cheers from N.B.
Amazing review John, especially the drop C part. You're an amazing fingerpicking player!
I teach guitar for a living and have been playing for many many years. There is a trend that many of you my younger students like which is these young guitar players arranging pop tunes for solo guitar with this thumb slap style. It has zero energy and soul. I think this may be a consequence in part of not performing in front of an audience. It wonderful to hear you play. Everything you do swings and has a foot tapping groove. I love your passion for music and guitars as well. Thanks for sharing
I'm very impressed with the sound & quality of Yamaha guitars ! I have a 1980 G-250s classical that I bought new for 250.00 !! The quality is amazing & also have a Yamaha eterna from the 90's. A cheaper line of theirs, but it plays well & is very loud . Love your channel. ! Thanks for sharing this gorgeous Yamaha. !
G-250 (as well as the g245 and 255ii) is an amazing guitar. The choice of woods for their all solid tops is impeccable. They were technically mass produced but a good design and good materials usually gives you......a good guitar!
My first quality guitar was an L20a which I bought in 1981, all solid woods which I played to death and was as tough as old boots. I finally gave it to my son and recently replaced it with an LL26 which is more than a worthy replacement.
I have a 1990 LA-18, which was a forerunner of today's L series. Comfortable OM-body. Still playing it today; just had it re-fretted. (!)
Yup, still have my old Yamaha I got in ‘76 for about 100 bucks. Can’t kill it. I am in the Canadian Forces so went with me through my travels. I was recently at L&M in Brampton, ON and the fellow recommended for guitars 8-1200 range, he grabbed the Yamaha first for me....played it but prefer a 1 3/4 nut and not 1 11/16 so ended up with a Martin DX1AE which sounded and played to me the best. Good to know the way you put it and the Japanese are extremely caring in their work and precise. Beauty sounds !
I got an FG745 from my dad's passing..I played it for years..took it to Guitar Center for refrett..as there were no frets left ..literally played that much..And they screwed the crap out of that guitar for 150 bucks..I was pissed..lesson learned..Just purchased the LL16DR..OMG..totally amazing
Great review JP! Can’t wait to see the other two!
Im in awe. Thank you.
Hey John, thanks much for giving lots of great insight on Yamaha guitars in general and particularly on the "Holy Trinity"! Very much enjoyed it!
I own a lovely LJ-26 since 2008 and I freak out everytime I pick it up over the fact how fantastic it sounds and plays. I own a couple guitars, all great, like them all, but I love this one! Best!
John, you forgot the great Bert Jansch, amongst the Yamaha players
LL10 baby! I had to remind Yamaha about that and the anniversary of his death coincided with the release of the recent LL series. Of course nothing was done about it. I guess it made too much sense?! 🤦♂️
@@JasonKanakis007 check out the Bert Jansch Foundation series here on YT. Some spotty recording quality but the idea works for me.
Yes! He is one of the best. Bert's main guitars were Yamaha from '72 (or '73) until he passed in 2011. Other than a couple custom made boutique models like his Armstrong.
In order: FG-1500, L-25AT, LL-11E (with an LLX-400 as backup)
Got one of these today and, yeah, this video is mainly to blame :)
It's second hand, built in April 2021. Neck is so comfortable. Nice big low end. Rosewood makes it sound more "metallic" than my mahogany Simon & Patrick Woodland Pro Folk, which I like for strumming, but not what I prefer in some registers of fingerstyle, but that's inherent in the nature of the tonewoods.
So true. My first guitar was a 1972 Yamaha classical G180 if I remember correctly. I eventually upgraded in the mid 90’s to two Brune’s, a cedar Fleta and his signature spruce when you could get them in less than six months. While that Yamaha was no Brune’ it was an outstanding guitar I played until it was near sawdust. Now my couple Yamahas are of the steel string variety. Much better guitars than they’re generally given credit for. I have a Yairi that is as good as any other classical I’ve played. The Japanese have a long and storied tradition in guitar building. I very much enjoy your content and especially your chops young man.
I am so glad you are bringing attention to these guitars. They really do sound fantastic. I bet they are even more of a steal on the used market.
I was really enjoying this until you got to drop D and now I'm weeping......just wow, double drop D would be super haunting, I thank you for bringing my attention to Yamaha guitars, I have never thought of them in this way.
Excellent. Plywood is more stable than solid wood. Less effected by humidity swings and is essentially crack proof.
Really enjoyed your review! Thanks
Like you said, I have a FG140 Red Label Nippon Gakki 1967 guitar, still playing with it and sounds amazing! It was my 12th anniversary gift from my Dad in 1967! I also have a Boucher and the Yamaha FG180 50th Anniversary. Don’t need anything else. A happy fingerstyle guitarist from Quebec
Daniel. I've also got the FG 180 50th. My new favourite! Goes toe-to-toe with giants.
Hey John only recently discovered your channel and really enjoy and appreciate the videos. Awesome playing. Hello from Newfoundland! Cheers.
Hi JP, Sam W. here....nice to talk to you a few weeks back. Rest assured that your brother's FG1500 is in good hands and is played every day!! (I just texted you a few clips.) And as Claudio says, Bert Jansch was the reason I got my first FG1500 back in the mid 70's,
Beautiful, and amazing feeling necks. The L series are fantastic..
JP - this is your best sounding guitar 🎸
till the next video 😉
Damn! What a phenomenal guitar player 👏. I love me some Yamaha guitars.
Sounds amazing and nice playing !
I bought a new LS16 (made in China) Yamaha in 2015 for $900 and it’s been a fantastic guitar. It sounds and plays so well it’s really hard for me to justify buying another guitar ever again. And it’s so well built it should outlast me. I just broke out the tuner this morning, after not tuning it for at least a month, and I only had to adjust the B-string. I’ve heard not having to tune much is a sign of a well built guitar, I don’t know, but if it is then there you go.
My dad always made fun of Yamaha because in his mind Yamaha made dirt bikes. I think that has probably hurt their brand maybe more than they realize. Many of us Americans imagine a Yamaha worker screwing in an engine part one day, and then putting on a guitar neck the next and just think ‘how good could their guitars be?’. ...Mountain Blade... how cool of a name is that?!
I have a 50 year old FG beauty . Action still good. Tone out of this world
4:00 have to timestamp that motivational guitar history.
I constantly listen to this really magnificent
I've had a soft spot in my heart for Yamaha's my entire life. My Dad gigged for over 40 yrs with an early 70's FG. Nothing like a big fat g-run on that ole bad boy. Played it until he could no longer play it easily. Fretboard was a pitted mess by the time he was done his local music career. Still have it tucked away though.
Thanks so much sir!! I researched between Gibson, martin and Taylor and I definitely with out a doubt identity the superiority of the built sound and Finnish of YAMAHA. I bought a LLTA model and I’m so happy but also I paid 1/3 of the price compared the other brands. Thanks Sir for your honest videos and thanks to YAMAHA for your honest guitars!!!!
I had a couple over the years the best one burned in a house fire that my ex had! They are amazing guitars. My wife's cousin bought one of the L series and he says it beats his D-28 and his Guild Dreadnaught hands down. I just bought another Martin and was lookin at the Yamaha's I wish I would have!
I had a couple of FG180s. Good solid guitars. Pacifica electrics were nice, too. When John Denver and Bert Jansch were playing them, that was enough for me.
I agree with you, 100%, it's a fact and it's for real.
Your an inspiration JP,thanks brother.
I have a new Yamaha on order, so this was a great listen for today.Thanks!
I have a circa '78 FG 340..plays better every year. Bought it new,..it's in near perfect shape. It will take any tuning I throw at it with solid projection. I use John Pearse SL550's on it mostly. It was my main guitar, before I came upon a Martin J40...but I play them both regularly, even in performance. The FG gives me that D-35 sound.Yamaha has some real gems in their line for sure JP
A fabulous guitar, very clean and fantastic sound. Great playing by the way. I have a nearly 40 years old Yamaha FG 375 S, Still a great guitar. You can take it out of the case after a half year and it is still in tune.
I used to own a 1990s L-11 Yamaha played it alot .Sounded great for the money ,did a recording of it my channel of it on the song "greenweaves" just before I sold it. I recently bought a Recording King RD 328 from your recommendations J.P. excellent guitar ,Love it.
Great discussion of Yamaha, including why some people dismiss them. These are holy grail guitars in every price range. Back in the 70s, when I was at school veryone wanted a red label 150. Last year I got a 2nd hand LL16 - all solid for under £400. You are playing some fantastic guitars, but frankly, even without custom shop, Yamaha would still be extraordinary guitars. In passing, I should mention that plastic pegs are ubiquitous even on high end guitars because almost everyone has an opinion about pegs and changes them out to their faves. Same as you say about pickup systems
This is the best review of the Yamaha L series out there. The instruments are incredible values and a pleasure to play. I've never bought one new, because they are very hard to find at retailers. Purchased all of them thru Reverb, eBay and Facebook marketplace and taken the chance. Picked up the LL26 for $1200 in pristine condition and it rivals my prized Martin J40 which leaves the house on special occasions. Will say it does not sound like a dreadnought, to me it is more balanced and piano like in it's tone, but that is just me. Great review, great picking!
They are all in stock at Fantasie Music Now!
sounds great nice playing!!
I still have my Yamaha FG335 I bought used when I was 14. Im 51 now. It still plays and sounds great.
That would be me. I'll be 40 this Christmas and I've got a little laminate Yamaha about my age and I'd never sell it. It's unbelievable. It looks like it's 80 years old and I just love it.
I agree with you, l found and LJX36C Yamaha in Madrid in 2011 AGL Musical and today l’m happy, I was not wrong!!!✌️
Dear God, THAT guitar sounded FRIKKIN AMAZING when you ultimately picked it up and started playing. Wow. Love Yammy's but it took me by surprise a little. Lol. I love the OG headstock. Reminds me of my Dad's 70'S Yamaha. Thing was a beast when it came to that big bass bound bluegrassers are always searching for.
1970 FG-150. Sounds incredible. Bought new in 1971 for $89 from Keynote Music in Surrey BC from Dino Gerussi. Rhymes with Bruno. (his brother)
John, I could listen to you play for hours. Hurry and drop the other two episodes!
I was thinking this guy talks a lot then I got to the playing. You have a captive audience! Keep talking and playing!
Wow, nice guitar indeed. And Well explained and demonstrated.
Hi J. P; I really enjoyed your video, brings back a lot of memories. I bought a Yamaha FG-235
I think that is the right model #, it was one great old guitar, if I wanted to take it to the cottage
no problem, could take it anywhere and it did not have to be retuned. It was great. Thanks !!!
Hey J.P. I met you when I played at Shetland FF the same year you did, 2012 I recall..Blown away seeing you play with Bill mate..And yep I still own Yamaha's ;-) Hope all is well..
My 1st guitar was an FG300 purchased in Japan while I was stationed there in the Navy 1971. Don't have any longer "sadly", but still play a Yamaha every day!
Talk about tight punchy highs!!...that Yamaha is amazing!!...as Michael Hedges used to say...it rings like a bell!!...
I just ordered a brand new YAMAHA FG-840 from The Music Zoo here on Long Island NY. While I await its arrival via Fed-X I searched videos to once again hear its tonal qualities. I came across your excellent vid..Best of all in Utubeland
as to the Yamaha over 50 yrs improvement hopefully personified in my new acoustic axe
Sounds real good. Looks like Spruce over Indian RW. That Gibson J-185 shape is one of best. Add 1/2” to the depth and you got a Boomer. My 1st guitar was a Yamaha Classical entry level 1970’. I’ve had numerous Yamahas never a Custom ship model. I Build my own Customs. My stock of seasoned wood is 50+ years seasoned. I favor old 50s and earlier Gibson’s for Vintage. But I have a 1968’ Yamaha FG-110 -paid $ 20. Had broken neck at the heel. Repaired it 18 years ago-it’s a killer guitar but not even close to my Customs. Neither is 95% of the Vintage Martins And Gibson’s I pick up occasionally. But I must say-that there Yamaha is a CANNON!!!! An old friend I’ve known since 69’ bought a scarce brand new 1972’ Yamaha FG-295S-bought it in 1972’ and Still owns it. Killer guitar- only Acoustic he’s ever owned.
My FG441s holds open C wonderfully. I am so addicted to this guitar. I'm hoping I can find another Yamaha that does everything as well as this inexpensive 90s Yamaha does. I just kept it in a Cmaj7 tuning for a couple years. It's so rich and wonderful it really is as addictive as the finest, high thebaine opium poppy there is. I'm just hoping I can find a fancy Yamaha that does as much as this one. I just don't know if it's a matter of luck. I bought the guitar at Barbaras Guitars in DC in 96-97 and the luthier there said he'd done some work on the FG441s and though it was amazing. I think what he was really saying was, the neck got broken off and he did a nice reset. I don't know. Sorry to blow up your channel's comments. I just found your channel and the Yamaha forum.
I'm in my mid 50s and I got this idea in my head that it was time to buy a "nice" guitar. I thought about doing it in the 80s. There was a little guitar shop that had a $1400 acoustic by a company I'd never heard of. $1400! That was like a million dollars to me. It was amazing. It was a Lowden. I should have pimped myself out and bought it. I was pretty enough. But no, I was stuck on buying rack effects and trying to be Fripp/Belew/ Frisell/ Holdsworth/Frith/ Alll the Beefheart 70s-90s guitarists, Richard Thompson and Hedges at the same time. My youth made me lean toward the fancy gadgets. Now, after playing this humble 441s fro 20 some years, it's time for something cushy. Something with a lower acton. I'll never have the kind of guitarist you have.... although if I sold my modular synth I could buy a Collings... but I really do thing an FGX5 will do the trick if I can manage to find one in the beginning of 2021. Should have the money together by then.
Japanese built instruments are very well made and endure. I just received a forty year old Daion MARK V from my father and it’s a great instrument which has stood the test of time. Cedar top and rosewood back and sides with bone nut and saddle etc. The rosewood MAY be rosewood that is under a cites jurisdiction as I discovered on a thread recently so no US travel for this one I think in the future.
I never discount a builder due to geographic location. TH-cam and the internet at large have opened a world of contradictions to the purist.
Great work in these vids JP.
I have an Epiphone that is 62 years old. It's in perfect working order and always has been. Made at the Gibson factory in Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1958.
I'd really like to try the Yamaha FG5/FGX5 or FS5/FSX5. But I've only been playing for 2 years so it might be too good for my playing 🙂. Greetings from Iceland.
Yamaha is the only guitar that owns its own factories in China for the commercial line. They have their own QC in their own factory. The othe guitar company contract factories in China to put their own labels on them granted some give them the wood the want used in their guitars
I've held onto my Yamaha LL-15 while others have come and gone. Now, it's 35 years old and only getting better. I specially ordered the guitar with solid rosewood back/sides and Honduran mahogany neck.
Great playing, you're a great salesman . . . I have a 46-year-old classic with a solid top . . . still love playing it. Cheers.
Amazing sound but the playing is exceptional. Well done, sir
John, thanks for the great review. And: awesome playing! Could listen for hours!!! Out of curiosity: comparing an LJ and LL, let's say both being the 36 range, which from your POV is the better choice for Fingerpicking? I love Dreadnought sound but those medium Jumbo Yamaha sounds awesome! Appreciate your opinion. Thanks and play on!
I was dumfounded by the astoundingly beautiful sounds of heavenly music you just put in my once sleeping ears...
Totally amazing , God bless ,, thank you... where can I get one compreable....
That guitar sounds increadable, better than any guitar i heard on you tube!
I own a 30 year old Yamaha 441s, also a great sounding and playing guitar, wanted to buy another dreadnought, i tried many but no other guitar can beat mine!
Thanks man, for sharing great guitar videos with us. My first guitar was a Yamaha my Dad bought me in a small music store in 1970. It was a Red Label, but I don't remember the exact number. It was a good guitar to learn on and I wish I had it now. I'm 68 and have had several guitars since then, but right now I am looking to buy my last guitar, and I'm considering a Yamaha LL6. Would you recommend it for an older guy that just wants a guitar to play around the house? Thanks again!
My uncle has a Yamaha dred that hes had since the early 70s...only box he needs...man that thing is a hoss.
I’m a fan of deep bass. How do the Yamaha LL26 and 36 compare to Gibson j-45?
Most of the time video just doesn't capture the sound quality. But this sounds AMAZING! Reminds me of my Japanese hand made Yairi.
love your version of Shanendoah…Guitar sounds incredible