Early 90's I ordered a D-55. While I was waiting I also purchased a D-40. In the end I played the 40 more than the 55 because the 55 was the masterpiece. I saved it... I worshiped that guitar. Nothing compared to it. I also have my dad's 67 Hummingbird he used when he played the opry... but nothing even comes close to that 55. The 40 is good.. and it's my go to most of the time but it's not the 55. Great review.. I love the D-55.
The D55 is my dreadnought, and the LOVE OF MY LIFE. I can back up everything Jeremy said, it is the most wonderful instrument I have ever had the pleasure of owning and would recommend it to anyone. Buy one.
I bought my first Guild in the early 70's, it was a D 25 flat back all mahogany. I sold it in 1979 and bought myself a brand Guild D 50 which I still have today. The D 50 was built in 1980. I love Guild guitars. Guild to me is a top of the line acoustic guitar. Los Angeles
Bought my D-55e in April 2020 and I love it. So easy and responsive to play. It can handle fingerstyle well, but it shines as a strummer/flat-picker. Worth every penny and is definitely comparable to the Martin 40s line.
@JS: Guild D55 - "the Steinway of dreadnoughts". I'm obsessed with an old beat up one i have. Built like a battle ship; doesn't feel delicate - yet, a full voice, no dead frequency, rich. Save up, sell other stuff, eat less, don't pay some bills, and then go get one !!!! You can't put it down.
That guitar sounds great. I got my sister a D-50 back in the 70's, that guitar also sounds amazing and sounds like thunder. Not the easiest to play but LOUD and certainly cuts through the mix.
Guild have made great guitars throughout the years. From my experience the D-55 was a bit heavier in weight than a Martin D-28 but still sounded fantastic. Over the years they made some pretty cool models D-100, DV-72, DV-73 and others. For anyone who has not played one do yourself a favor and check them out. Jeremy glad to see you shinning some light and love on the D-55
This D-55 sounds great. I’ve owned a couple of Guilds from the 60s, a D-40 and a D-50. They were powerful but, for me, lacked spirit. I ended up with a Martin. But I have a friend with a variety of vintage Martins, none of which excite me. I guess you have to play before you buy.
Yep...unlike most Martin and Taylorites....I wonder if any of them ever play, they seem to be more interested in model and serial numbers and one upping each other lol!
My 3rd New guitar purchase was a D-25 back in 1975’. Owned and sold few others since over the years. Bought one of the early production Guild M-120 GAD all Hog’ few years ago from a friend $300-it already Sounded amazing-but being a Luthier I decided to make it a Dream Guitar--I Sanded down 70 % of the plastic finish on top & 50% off the Back/Sides and gave it a Satin look. I Installed Bone Nut/Saddle and Carefully lightly Scalloped the X-Braces. Guitar is a Tone Monster now. -Guilds are typically Braced a bit Heavy- but Wonderful Guitars with their own Vibe. --I picked up a mid 90’s Guild Maple Jumbo JF100 for $600 a year ago with a little binding issue. I very Carefully Scalloped the Braces and Tone Bars and lightened it up a little-- The Guild Maple JF-100 is absolutely amazing Massive Tonal improvement. It’s a J-200 killer now!!!!
I just bought one a couple days ago. When I first played it at the shop I thought my hand was hitting the top and creating a boom. But turns out that was just the base tones bellowing out of it. I couldn’t believe the sound! I said take my money. I also own 2 Gibsons. A 2020 songwriter which is my gig guitar. And a 1993 Vintage AJ, both of which are amazing sounding guitars but my hell the Guilt D-55 is just another level of amazing. Mine is the Sunburst! Just beautiful! Thank you for the video you play beautifully!
That's a lovely guitar; would love to own a D55 someday. Years ago I had a D15m that I absolutely loved and sadly had to let go. There's something about Guilds...
I have a D55 dated 1974. I brought it in 1982 and for the next 30 years played it in all sorts of venues up and down New Zealand. It's in semi retirement now (like me) and though it looks a bit rough ( like me) it's still in perfect working order.(?) It's had a refret or two and once the bridge came unstuck but that's the only problems I've had with it. Now it's a 'sit on the deck and pick ' guitar.
A couple pieces of trivia: 1) the D-55 was the "TV guitar" - Tommy Smothers played it on the Smothers Brothers Comedy Show, 2) Guild hired Ren Ferguson to help re-launch these wonderful classics. I'm not a Rosewood Dreadnaught player, but I came very close to buying a nearly new D-55 last year; as beautiful as it was, all of that inlay on the fretboard was just too distracting. I'm still on the look-out for a '70s F-112 - I like Guilds, especially those old Hoboken guitars and the ghost labels.
As a luthier whenever any of my customers ask about buying an older acoustic I'll always push them to buy an old guild. Somehow over time which I think has something to do with thunder bought out the company they got relegated to this odd brand at people kind of remember and we're on a verge of getting. In the 70s if a guy called out a guild all the other guys of Martin's looked at them like use a total douchebag because he had a guitar that was better than theirs. Whenever I have any of these guitars come in for restoration it's still shocks me how amazing they sound once they're restored. And as per the video the latest rehash of this line is just as good as what was made 50 years ago. I'm really glad to see that the company is still around and a chunk of it is still made in the USA with the high quality that they were always known for. I can't say enough good things about it. You just have to try one to understand.
I agree, however, it may need a neck reset and other work, which is not cheap, but it's worth it if the buyer is willing to give an old Guild some TLC. Like giving a shelter dog a good home, it will reward you.
I have a D55 Which is about 14 years old. I bought it second hand and if it had sounded anything like this tinny thing in this demo I would have walked away. I was looking to upgrade when I popped into a guitar store and having tried out brand new Taylor's, Martin's etc was about to leave when the salesman said we've got this used Guild. It was heavy but as soon as I strummed and picked I knew that it would be coming home with me. I will reserve full judgement until I have the opportunity to try out the the new model.
I've been wanting a 12 string Guild ever since I got to play a vintage one a few years back. It played great and more importantly it was without a doubt the sweetest sounding 12 string I've ever heard in person. Of course a 12 string is lower on the collection ladder than the needed 6 string electric and acoustics- but now that I've got all the electric and acoustic sixxers I really need I've really got that beautiful Guild twelver on my mind. Now I just need my wallet to catch up to my needs.
I have a old Ibanez copy that was part of the lawsuit era made in Japan its my favorite. It great because it's a Guild copy so it starts in a good place. Was made 70's I think.
I also had a Guild D-40, bought it new in '78 and I loved that guitar. It needed a bunch of work on it when I gave it to my son, though. They're very well-built.
Can't afford a D-55.....but a couple years ago I splurged and got a D-40 Traditional.....I truly love that guitar.....my dream guitar is a Guild USA 12 String...but, at least for now, they're way out of my range.
I have a D55 dated 1974. I brought it in 1982 and for the next 30 years played it in all sorts of venues up and down New Zealand. It's in semi retirement now and though it looks a bit rough it's still in perfect working order. It's had a refret or two and once the bridge came unstuck but that's the only problems I've had with it. Now it's a 'sit on the deck and pick ' guitar.
Jeremy, I’m with you about Guild American acoustic guitars, I love them! Ever since I was a kid in the 70’s I’ve always wanted a guild. My first guild was a 1992 Guild D-4NT and I still own it, an incredible guitar and at the price point ( 399.00) when I bought it a great deal. It’s almost thirty now and it’s a special guitar, tone for days! I owned an 87’ D-25 as well and I sold it to fund my Current new guild ( 1997) DV-52 with antique burst finish. An absolutely stunning guitar. One day I will own a D-55 but for know the two I own are incredible and I feel very fortunate to own them. Keep show casing guilds, I as you love them!
Nice! I still have my 1992 Guild D-4NT HG (high gloss, which cost a few hundred guilders extra). I bought it used with way too light .010" strings. We put .011s Martins on it in order not to have to adjust the trussrod. So it's a fingerpicking guitar now. For a fair comparison I should put .012 d'Addario EJ-16 on it and have a new set-up done. Right now it gets its ass kicked by my other solid mahogany dreadnaught guitars* because of the too light strings. *1973 Martin D-18 1971 Gibson J-50 1980 Gallagher Doc Watson Tama TW-07 Tacoma DM9 Blueridge BR-40A (laminated mahogany with an Adirondack spruce top) I am going to give the Guild a fair chance in the comparison, since selling the Guild is not interesting anyway, because Fender totally ruined Guild's reputation and the prices of the OLD Guilds really suffered from it. Today these Guilds go for €500-650 which is way too low for what they are. I paid 1300 guilders used in 1999 (the HG version had a LIST PRICE of 2495 GUILDERS in 1992, which was pretty comparable with a Martin D-18) and I refuse to lose a single penny on it. I should give Cordoba enough time to build up the good reputation of Guild again and THEN eventually sell it, because I have way too many axes. Until now I only sold my Lakewood D-8 after I bought the Tama... I had to buy the Tama, because it's a member of the Ibanez family, and it kicked the Lakewood's ass. But then the Tacoma came along... and I had to have that. Same for the Blueridge. I HAD to have it because Harrie stopped importing them and I didn't have a regular Blueridge dreadnaught (I just bought the really special Blueridges, then Covid came along and Harrie made some strategic business changes and closed shops and really slow Blueridge deliveries didn't fit into that strategy). I'm really glad I found a simple BR-40 PLUS that incredible Adirondack top USED at a very decent price. It's a KILLER guitar. Mahogany gives such a sweet tone, especially for strumming. IMHO every serious acoustic guitar player should have a Rosewood, a Mahogany AND if you can find one: a MAPLE dreadnaught. (If you can't find the latter, buy a jumbo).
@@gingerbeer914 The D4 is highly under rated. It is an excellent guitar that comes with a lot of soul to it! I use John Pearse medium lights on mine. Great strings! Enjoy your Guild. They are special!
U absolutely agree with you. Guilds are and were the best production guitars. When I got into guitar in the 70s I just couldn’t believe how much better they were across the board than Martin or Gibson. Seemed sacrilegious. I had a 212 12 string that sounded like a goddamn pipe organ. So glad to see they’re back.
I bought one this weekend!! The really cool folks at Music Villa in Bozeman, MT had one and I grabbed it. Why from MV?? No sales tax, no shipping at least at this price range. Kewl stuff as I live in SoCal in a town where the S/T is 10.25%.. .yikes!! I thank the Lord for allowing me to have the $$'s available to buy this wonderful instrument.... I am blessed.. 👍👍
USA made Guilds are just a lot easier to play than Martins for me because of their more rounded 12" fretboard radius, and their 1 11/16" nut width. The imported Guilds are flatter, like Martins, having a 16" fretboard radius. It took 4 years for my Guild D-40 traditional to open up in the bass range. However, It has had the loveliest treble response of any guitar I ever owned since day one. I don't own a D-55, but I bet a new one would take several years to really open up also. I must admit, though. that the only brand new guitars that I have ever played that sounded already "open" were standard series Martins, certainly not all brand new standard series Martins - just the occasional jewel. And even then, one had to hear it with uncoated PB 13's to really hear it. The strings that Martins are currently shipped with sound quite dead. Pity that.
Apparently there’s a waiting list for these now. I almost snagged a Tacoma era D-55 for $1700 but I could not come up with the cash fast enough. Damn! Guess my old 74’ D-35 will have to do for now.
I picked up a 1992 D50 not long ago, and it’s fantastic. I traded a ‘96 Gibson ES-135 for it, from a local shop that deals in vintage gear. They had several old Gibsons and 90’s Martin D35s in the room, and the D50 stood head and shoulders above them all. I wasn’t looking for an acoustic but this guitar was too special to let it go. I have a Martin D-18 that keeps up with it (also a great one), but the Guild just has such a warm, harmonically rich tone that nothing else hits for me.
I believe it was destroyed on tour from airline baggage handlers. He often used custom tooled leather soft cases. He also reserved some guitars that he liked too much to take outside his home.
I have loved Guild since I bought one in 1977. Sadly, my house flooded and my neck cracked in half while I was at the shelter. I guess it didn't like the sudden change in humidity. I got more compliments on the sound of that guitar.
Radiused tops are not at all uncommon. I gotta think the Martin is the better investment. That said, if this guitar speaks to you....you should own it!
Me too always liked guild . I was just watching ren ferguson talking about his move to cordova / guild the other day. Pretty sure hes gonna keep bringing back everything good about guild. ...cool guitar, and topic
I know you are aware, but almost if not all guitars have a radius to their soundboard. But the radii are measured in feet as opposed to inches. Guitars have tops ranging from a 25’ to 40’ radius. 30’ radius is not uncommon at all. To argue which radius is best, is like asking which guitar is the best. Cheers. Enjoyed the video
My dad has a '75 and we put 13s on that guitar about a month ago and after playing that with a new set of 13s, I think it is my favorite acoustic dreadnaught. I have came to the conclusion that a Martin HD-28 or maybe HD-35 will always be the best sounding Martin when I am playing it, (I don't play hard enough for a D28 so they end up being a little dead sounding, too bassy). But the D55 might take the cake. He also has a D50, which is a little bit brighter and also a really nice guitar - but we never tried it with 13s. My personal favorite is the F-50 though. It's a completely different guitar, much more focused in sound, but less forgiving to the player. But it has a very full sound.
Thanks for a fine review of the D55. I play mainly Guild USA guitars. I’ve had a Westerly D55 for years. For performance, the playability and tone are astounding. On occasion I have played it in a bluegrass jam that was heavy on D18s and 28s; several of the Martin players couldn’t believe the sound you can get out of the D55. Having said that, it is a heavy build and it weighs more compared to other brands. To me it doesn’t sound like a Gibson. It sounds like a Guild.
If you want incredible Guild sound without the weight try any of their newer arch backs with NO internal back bracing. I own a cheap Guild AD-3 Nat (450.00) from around 7-8 yrs ago that puts ALL the Martins to shame imo. Best sounding guitar I've ever owned. The missing back bracing is the KEY to make these things HUM like they're alive in your hands. Incredible.
I was so close to buying that guitar about 7 years ago. It was easily one of the top 3 acoustics i’d ever played but i just couldnt come up with the money. It was brand new and i usually buy used gear to save money and i ended up with a used J50 that I’ll never get rid of that was much cheaper. But I will own one one of these days.
Here's a secret for you Nick and others who may be reading this. See if you can find a Guild Arch Back to play. The arch backs produce their own strength and rigidity like a domed roof in a stadium does, are very stable and require NO internal back bracing strips. I was in a guitar shop looking to spend some decent dollars, 1K plus, and played about 15 different guitars up to 3500 kinda range. Was pretty well down between a nice Gibson or a Martin. Then I spotted a Guild arch back. I took one strum on it and new instantly this was the guitar for me. The difference in depth, projection, play ability (nice thinner neck), sustain and richness blew me away. I'd never heard such acoustic sound as this in my life, and I've had a number of what I thought were great acoustics. If you can find one to play hold it up vertically with thumb and forefinger where the head stock meets the neck and tap quickly the center of the arch back. It booms like a drum and sustains it. Then do the same thing with any other high end guitar with internal back bracing that have flat backs and you'll immediately feel how dead they ALL sound compared to an arch back Guild. Best discovery of my life. This Guild is a AD-3 Nat built in Mexico. I bought it about 7-8 yrs ago. I put light strings on it and tune it down a full step. It's a very light weight guitar with a thin neck, easy to play, and with the tuned down lites WOW the thing just hums and resonates and the whole guitar feels alive in your hands. Don't buy another acoustic until you've managed to try out the Guild arch backs. There's more than one line of them. I assume but don't know that all the arch backs are incredible. That missing internal back bracing makes more difference in the sound of a guitar than ANY other feature I've ever come across. The Mexico plant is now closed but you can find a used AD-3 for CHEAP if you look. This AD-3 cost me new 450.00 and included a good padded Guild case, lololo. It has a solid Sitka Spruce top and laminated Mahogany back and sides. Don't let the laminate fool you. This is hands down the finest sounding guitar I've ever played or owned. I found out later the arch tops started with Epiphone in the '30s for their stand up basses and were designed specifically for much better sound volume and projection before Electric Bass was invented. Anyway this Guild will always be with me, I will NEVER sell it. It beat the 3000.00 Martins and Gibsons like a DRUM, literally...lololo. I write this review in depth to ALL us poor acoustic players because I want everyone to know you don't need big bucks to find big sound. Hope this helps people. Comment me back when you confirm what I'm saying. It'll make your day and mine. Cheers Richard West Kelowna British Columbia, Canada.
Same specs as my 1973 Maton Southern Star; one piece Rosewood back and sides; Sitka spruce top; ebony fingerboard and bridge; bone nut and saddle; tortoise shell pic guard; Grover tuners; abelone inlays. It has a bigger and warmer bottom than the Guild you're demonstrating. The best sounding guitar of the guitars of those woods I've played, including Martin. Having said that, good guitars come in all different personalities and woods.
I have a 1981 origional d46 ASH with the Rosewood up the center of the back. Made before they put them out commercially without the Rosewood Strip. Amazing guitar . Also my d50 1973 is doing well although the headstock Cracked through and its fine after regluing.. 20 yrs later. Love guilds ... 2- 1973 Mk-4 s also
I have a westerly dv-73 from 1995 (only 50 ever made) and it‘s in great shape. Beautiful sound i can‘t stop looking at it. I thought about selling it, but after i‘ve picked it up again lately i think i keep it
Is this best for hillsongs ? Is it good for worshiper hillsong? Which is the best preference for hillsong worshiper through any Martin model or guild D 55 ? Please suggest??
Hi Jeremy, I came across with a Martin DSS-2018. Do you know anything about this model?? I can get some discount on this guitar, how would you compare it to the D-55? Thank you so much!! I really hope you can reply me :) thanks from Hong Kong!
Hey Jeremy, great to hear your thoughts on the D55 it's on my list of great guitars, I'm slowly working my way through a list of guitars for my forever Guitar and thus is definitely there, as I am in NZ and the opportunity to play one is very low but the video world and people like yourself help👍 My list is Guild D55 Furch Vintage 3 Huss & Dalton MJ Crossroads Martin J40 Taylor 818
I have a 1996 Guild DV52NT/HG, I am second owner and it is in excellent condition. It doesnt have the G logo headstock, the binding on the neck and headstock, or the block inlays, it does have ebony fretboard and bridge, and great tone. It was made in Westerly RI. I always wanted the D-55, but when this came around in the condition it was in I jumped on it. Great guitar.
I have a DV52NT that I bought new in 1993 or 94, and it's the nicest sounding guitar I've ever owned. I have several smaller-bodied ones that are lovely when I don't want the booming dreadnaught, but for sheer tonal awesomeness, you can't beat a big Guild.
I have one of these too. It was my first dread, bought it new in the late 90’s. I have purchased some other high-end boutique guitars in the last few years. All that did was made me realize how good the told “cheap” Guild is. I just upgraded from the original cardboard case because this thing deserves it. I’ve used it everywhere, it’s beat up but sounds great.
Revisiting a classic. In 1987 or so, I caught a steal at a downtown Denver pawn shop with an owner that didn't know what she had. Got a mint D-55 for $450 cash. A good buy? There are some classic Larrivees that can top that iconic headstock -- but nobody else comes close.
A considering trading my Martin OM-28e Retro toward a D-55e in Vintage Sunburst. A local store has one. But I need to play it more. I’m not sure if they’ll take the Retro-not sure there’s a market for it. Apparently Martin and Fishman no longer support the Aura F1+ pickup system.
Hey, I know this has nothing to do with what you’re doing today. But, I’ve learned about a guitar I never heard of and you’re the guy who would have the correct info. What is the deal of the guitar known as “The Marlboro Miles Guitar”? Do you know anything and have you ever played one? Thanks
TBH...the first time I heard a good review of the D55 I thought: Man...this guitar, for a dreadnought, sounds as big and full as a Gibson 200 Jumbo. And I stand by it. The D55 puts out so much sound it's like magic.
I owned A second hand 1978D 25 and a brand new 1992DV 52. While you Jeremy love the guild neck, I always felt like I was playing on a telephone pole. I loved the sound but I was more of a rosewood fan than mahogany in those days. I also agree with yourOpinion that the guild sound is not for everyone, although they are incredibly well-made.
Great video. I just played this this weekend.; However the tone of that thing doesn't come thru at all in a video. That's a said thing for someone looking for that guitar. If someone is even slightly interested based on what you have heard on this vid. Please play it yourself you will not be disappointed 😊
It's not quite in the same category or quality but I have an old GAD-50 from back in 05. It was from their first run of Chinese acoustics while Fender owned them, so not a collector model by any means. However, it's great. I've never found a dreadnought I've liked as much and I've bought and sold far too many along the way. I just love the Guild neck and sound, even their foreign models have great quality control and sound.
Gerard Stroh*** I have 4 Guild Guitars and 2 of My Guilds Are From The Late 70's an I Have A 1987 Guild D-25 12 String Guitar plays Great and It Has Alot Of Jingle and Sparkle On The on The 3rd to the 7th Fret*** I Also Have Guild B-30 Fretless Acoutic Jumbo bass Guitar The Second One Ever Made and It Was A Special Order Item Made In 1987 and That guild Guitar Has A Super big Jumbo Body and It's Bigger Than A Jumbo Guitar With A 17 Inch Body At The Lower Bout**** 5 Years Ago I Got Me A Guild 1512 12 String Guitar and I Tune It Down 2 Steps Down To B To Low B Baritone Guitar And I Have an Octive String Whare The 2nd Pair Of B Strings Are and When Your Put A Capo On The Fifth Fret You Play An E Chord and When You Play an Open G Chord You Can Hear The Octive B Note on The Second String When It's Capo On The 5th Fret and It Sounds Super Awesome and I Use A Custom String Set the low B String Is A 70 Gage Guitar String and I Have 5 Octive Guitar Strings On The Guitar**** I also Have A Guild Jombo Junior 6 String Guitar and for $399 for 3/4 size Guitar It Sounds Awesome**** That's My Guild Guitar Story***
I have an intense dislike of first fret inlays. I don't know why. Is that odd? Yes, I suppose. But, as the saying goes, all feelings are internally valid. Nice guitar, though.
Scale length of Guild dreads and jumbos is 25 5/8in or 651mm; that's the longest 'standard' scale length. Longer than Lowden and Furch (650mm) and definitely longer than any Martin.
One thing I noticed when you showed the butt end - no battery box, which implies the pickup is done like an add-on. In three of my guitars I have the K&K Pure Mini pickup, no battery, which is nice. In a fourth guitar that I had build custom, I had an LR Baggs Anthem put in, but I had them (Martin Custom Shop) put the battery box / strap button unit into the butt end. Nothing worse than having to restring a guitar to chance a battery. So I am thinking that may be a data point especially for folks who play on stage. But, it is a stunning guitar.
I played one of these the other day at a guitar shop and I honestly wasn’t impressed at all… not sure if it was just the specific instrument because it sounds great here. Did they used to have rounded backs?
Here's a secret for you Adam and others who may be reading this. See if you can find a Guild Arch Back to play. The arch backs produce their own strength and rigidity like a domed roof in a stadium does, are very stable and require NO internal back bracing strips. I was in a guitar shop looking to spend some decent dollars, 1K plus, and played about 15 different guitars up to 3500 kinda range. Was pretty well down between a nice Gibson or a Martin. Then I spotted a Guild arch back. I took one strum on it and new instantly this was the guitar for me. The difference in depth, projection, play ability (nice thinner neck), sustain and richness blew me away. I'd never heard such acoustic sound as this in my life, and I've had a number of what I thought were great acoustics. If you can find one to play hold it up vertically with thumb and forefinger where the head stock meets the neck and tap quickly the center of the arch back. It booms like a drum and sustains it. Then do the same thing with any other high end guitar with internal back bracing that have flat backs and you'll immediately feel how dead they ALL sound compared to an arch back Guild. Best discovery of my life. This Guild is a AD-3 Nat built in Mexico. I bought it about 7-8 yrs ago. I put light strings on it and tune it down a full step. It's a very light weight guitar with a thin neck, easy to play, and with the tuned down lites WOW the thing just hums and resonates and the whole guitar feels alive in your hands. Don't buy another acoustic until you've managed to try out the Guild arch backs. There's more than one line of them. I assume but don't know that all the arch backs are incredible. That missing internal back bracing makes more difference in the sound of a guitar than ANY other feature I've ever come across. The Mexico plant is now closed but you can find a used AD-3 for CHEAP if you look. This AD-3 cost me new 450.00 and included a good padded Guild case, lololo. It has a solid Sitka Spruce top and laminated Mahogany back and sides. Don't let the laminate fool you. This is hands down the finest sounding guitar I've ever played or owned. I found out later the arch tops started with Epiphone in the '30s for their stand up basses and were designed specifically for much better sound volume and projection before Electric Bass was invented. Anyway this Guild will always be with me, I will NEVER sell it. It beat the 3000.00 Martins and Gibsons like a DRUM, literally...lololo. I write this review in depth to ALL us poor acoustic players because I want everyone to know you don't need big bucks to find big sound. Hope this helps people. Comment me back when you confirm what I'm saying. It'll make your day and mine. Cheers Richard West Kelowna British Columbia, Canada.
Cool video! I'm hoping that you might take a trip up here to Canada to check out some fine Canadian made guitars. We have quite a few luthiers who make incredible instruments. You may be very pleasantly surprised!
...........If it has a (1 5/ 8") nut, or a (1 11/16") nut........forget it. I need a (1 3/4") nut, for fingerstyle guitar. Why can't most guitar companies offer a wider nut? I am a taller guy with longer fingers. I usually end up playing my Strat, which has a boat neck 1 3/4" nut, from Warmoth. I also Play my Seagull, Mini-Jumbo, from the Quebec Factory. I know some guitar companies do offer a wide nut, Most companies don't. Thanks for the video.
The Guild D 55 is quite simply the best sounding, best playing guitar I’ve ever played. I have a Martin D 28 and I always go back to the Guild.
I’ve got a fabulous D55 from the New Hartford lineage. Bought it from Rich Robinson of the Black Crowes
Whoa. That's awesome!
Early 90's I ordered a D-55. While I was waiting I also purchased a D-40. In the end I played the 40 more than the 55 because the 55 was the masterpiece. I saved it... I worshiped that guitar. Nothing compared to it. I also have my dad's 67 Hummingbird he used when he played the opry... but nothing even comes close to that 55. The 40 is good.. and it's my go to most of the time but it's not the 55. Great review.. I love the D-55.
The D55 is my dreadnought, and the LOVE OF MY LIFE. I can back up everything Jeremy said, it is the most wonderful instrument I have ever had the pleasure of owning and would recommend it to anyone. Buy one.
been on the fence about it but think I will pull the trigger (finally).
@@marksoftime did you?
I bought my first Guild in the early 70's, it was a D 25 flat back all mahogany. I sold it in 1979 and bought myself a brand Guild D 50 which I still have today. The D 50 was built in 1980. I love Guild guitars. Guild to me is a top of the line acoustic guitar. Los Angeles
My first good electric guitar was a 1967 Guild Starfire IV. I now own a 12 String Guild D-25. Guild guitars are so underrated.
Bought my D-55e in April 2020 and I love it. So easy and responsive to play. It can handle fingerstyle well, but it shines as a strummer/flat-picker. Worth every penny and is definitely comparable to the Martin 40s line.
Fantastic instrument, sounds like a chorus when you play it so warm and resonant. One of the best acoustic guitars I have ever played.
@JS: Guild D55 - "the Steinway of dreadnoughts". I'm obsessed with an old beat up one i have. Built like a battle ship; doesn't feel delicate - yet, a full voice, no dead frequency, rich. Save up, sell other stuff, eat less, don't pay some bills, and then go get one !!!! You can't put it down.
That guitar sounds great. I got my sister a D-50 back in the 70's, that guitar also sounds amazing and sounds like thunder. Not the easiest to play but LOUD and certainly cuts through the mix.
I own a D25 1977 Bought it Brand new this guitar is my Dream for 44 years and it just keeps on getting better!
The single best acoustic I've ever heard through headphones was a D-55. Ian Meadows here on TH-cam is the one that posted it.
Guild have made great guitars throughout the years. From my experience the D-55 was a bit heavier in weight than a Martin D-28 but still sounded fantastic. Over the years they made some pretty cool models D-100, DV-72, DV-73 and others. For anyone who has not played one do yourself a favor and check them out. Jeremy glad to see you shinning some light and love on the D-55
This D-55 sounds great. I’ve owned a couple of Guilds from the 60s, a D-40 and a D-50. They were powerful but, for me, lacked spirit. I ended up with a Martin. But I have a friend with a variety of vintage Martins, none of which excite me. I guess you have to play before you buy.
Yep...unlike most Martin and Taylorites....I wonder if any of them ever play, they seem to be more interested in model and serial numbers and one upping each other lol!
My 3rd New guitar purchase was a D-25 back in 1975’. Owned and sold few others since over the years. Bought one of the early production Guild M-120 GAD all Hog’ few years ago from a friend $300-it already Sounded amazing-but being a Luthier I decided to make it a Dream Guitar--I Sanded down 70 % of the plastic finish on top & 50% off the Back/Sides and gave it a Satin look. I Installed Bone Nut/Saddle and Carefully lightly Scalloped the X-Braces. Guitar is a Tone Monster now. -Guilds are typically Braced a bit Heavy- but Wonderful Guitars with their own Vibe. --I picked up a mid 90’s Guild Maple Jumbo JF100 for $600 a year ago with a little binding issue. I very Carefully Scalloped the Braces and Tone Bars and lightened it up a little-- The Guild Maple JF-100 is absolutely amazing Massive Tonal improvement. It’s a J-200 killer now!!!!
I just bought one a couple days ago. When I first played it at the shop I thought my hand was hitting the top and creating a boom. But turns out that was just the base tones bellowing out of it. I couldn’t believe the sound! I said take my money.
I also own 2 Gibsons. A 2020 songwriter which is my gig guitar. And a 1993 Vintage AJ, both of which are amazing sounding guitars but my hell the Guilt D-55 is just another level of amazing. Mine is the Sunburst! Just beautiful! Thank you for the video you play beautifully!
That's a lovely guitar; would love to own a D55 someday. Years ago I had a D15m that I absolutely loved and sadly had to let go. There's something about Guilds...
I have a D55 dated 1974. I brought it in 1982 and for the next 30 years played it in all sorts of venues up and down New Zealand. It's in semi retirement now (like me) and though it looks a bit rough ( like me) it's still in perfect working order.(?) It's had a refret or two and once the bridge came unstuck but that's the only problems I've had with it. Now it's a 'sit on the deck and pick ' guitar.
A couple pieces of trivia: 1) the D-55 was the "TV guitar" - Tommy Smothers played it on the Smothers Brothers Comedy Show, 2) Guild hired Ren Ferguson to help re-launch these wonderful classics. I'm not a Rosewood Dreadnaught player, but I came very close to buying a nearly new D-55 last year; as beautiful as it was, all of that inlay on the fretboard was just too distracting. I'm still on the look-out for a '70s F-112 - I like Guilds, especially those old Hoboken guitars and the ghost labels.
As a luthier whenever any of my customers ask about buying an older acoustic I'll always push them to buy an old guild. Somehow over time which I think has something to do with thunder bought out the company they got relegated to this odd brand at people kind of remember and we're on a verge of getting. In the 70s if a guy called out a guild all the other guys of Martin's looked at them like use a total douchebag because he had a guitar that was better than theirs. Whenever I have any of these guitars come in for restoration it's still shocks me how amazing they sound once they're restored. And as per the video the latest rehash of this line is just as good as what was made 50 years ago. I'm really glad to see that the company is still around and a chunk of it is still made in the USA with the high quality that they were always known for. I can't say enough good things about it. You just have to try one to understand.
I agree, however, it may need a neck reset and other work, which is not cheap, but it's worth it if the buyer is willing to give an old Guild some TLC. Like giving a shelter dog a good home, it will reward you.
It’s always worth it. The D55 is a Bentley. If you’re into quality of sound that is.
I have a D55 Which is about 14 years old. I bought it second hand and if it had sounded anything like this tinny thing in this demo I would have walked away.
I was looking to upgrade when I popped into a guitar store and having tried out brand new Taylor's, Martin's etc was about to leave when the salesman said we've got this used Guild.
It was heavy but as soon as I strummed and picked I knew that it would be coming home with me.
I will reserve full judgement until I have the opportunity to try out the the new model.
I've been wanting a 12 string Guild ever since I got to play a vintage one a few years back. It played great and more importantly it was without a doubt the sweetest sounding 12 string I've ever heard in person. Of course a 12 string is lower on the collection ladder than the needed 6 string electric and acoustics- but now that I've got all the electric and acoustic sixxers I really need I've really got that beautiful Guild twelver on my mind. Now I just need my wallet to catch up to my needs.
I have a old Ibanez copy that was part of the lawsuit era made in Japan its my favorite. It great because it's a Guild copy so it starts in a good place. Was made 70's I think.
Can relate, have owned Guilds for many years! Just purchased the 8 string baritone, what a beast
I also had a Guild D-40, bought it new in '78 and I loved that guitar. It needed a bunch of work on it when I gave it to my son, though. They're very well-built.
I just got an arched back Westerly D25 that sounds amazing. I love Guild.
I’m here because I’m literally going to buy a D-55 tomorrow (still struggling with F55 tho...)
I'm so excited for you! I still have this one and adore it.
Can't afford a D-55.....but a couple years ago I splurged and got a D-40 Traditional.....I truly love that guitar.....my dream guitar is a Guild USA 12 String...but, at least for now, they're way out of my range.
I had a 1975 D-55 that I loved! I had to sell it. I’ve been kicking myself ever since!
i had a jf65 12 string made in Westerly that I will always regret selling. A great Guitar. Someday I'll buy another one.
I have a D55 dated 1974. I brought it in 1982 and for the next 30 years played it in all sorts of venues up and down New Zealand. It's in semi retirement now and though it looks a bit rough it's still in perfect working order. It's had a refret or two and once the bridge came unstuck but that's the only problems I've had with it. Now it's a 'sit on the deck and pick ' guitar.
Jeremy,
I’m with you about Guild American acoustic guitars,
I love them! Ever since I was a kid in the 70’s I’ve always wanted a guild. My first guild was a 1992 Guild D-4NT and I still own it, an incredible guitar and at the price point ( 399.00) when I bought it a great deal. It’s almost thirty now and it’s a special guitar, tone for days! I owned an 87’ D-25 as well and I sold it to fund my Current new guild ( 1997) DV-52 with antique burst finish. An absolutely stunning guitar. One day I will own a D-55 but for know the two I own are incredible and I feel very fortunate to own them. Keep show casing guilds, I as you love them!
Nice! I still have my 1992 Guild D-4NT HG (high gloss, which cost a few hundred guilders extra). I bought it used with way too light .010" strings.
We put .011s Martins on it in order not to have to adjust the trussrod.
So it's a fingerpicking guitar now.
For a fair comparison I should put .012 d'Addario EJ-16 on it and have a new set-up done. Right now it gets its ass kicked by my other solid mahogany dreadnaught guitars* because of the too light strings.
*1973 Martin D-18
1971 Gibson J-50
1980 Gallagher Doc Watson
Tama TW-07
Tacoma DM9
Blueridge BR-40A (laminated mahogany with an Adirondack spruce top)
I am going to give the Guild a fair chance in the comparison, since selling the Guild is not interesting anyway, because Fender totally ruined Guild's reputation and the prices of the OLD Guilds really suffered from it.
Today these Guilds go for €500-650 which is way too low for what they are.
I paid 1300 guilders used in 1999 (the HG version had a LIST PRICE of 2495 GUILDERS in 1992, which was pretty comparable with a Martin D-18) and I refuse to lose a single penny on it.
I should give Cordoba enough time to build up the good reputation of Guild again and THEN eventually sell it, because I have way too many axes.
Until now I only sold my Lakewood D-8 after I bought the Tama...
I had to buy the Tama, because it's a member of the Ibanez family, and it kicked the Lakewood's ass.
But then the Tacoma came along... and I had to have that.
Same for the Blueridge. I HAD to have it because Harrie stopped importing them and I didn't have a regular Blueridge dreadnaught (I just bought the really special Blueridges, then Covid came along and Harrie made some strategic business changes and closed shops and really slow Blueridge deliveries didn't fit into that strategy).
I'm really glad I found a simple BR-40 PLUS that incredible Adirondack top USED at a very decent price. It's a KILLER guitar.
Mahogany gives such a sweet tone, especially for strumming.
IMHO every serious acoustic guitar player should have a Rosewood, a Mahogany AND if you can find one: a MAPLE dreadnaught. (If you can't find the latter, buy a jumbo).
@@gingerbeer914 The D4 is highly under rated. It is an excellent guitar that comes with a lot of soul to it! I use John Pearse medium lights on mine. Great strings! Enjoy your Guild. They are special!
That guitar sounds *fantastic.* Whew.
U absolutely agree with you. Guilds are and were the best production guitars. When I got into guitar in the 70s I just couldn’t believe how much better they were across the board than Martin or Gibson. Seemed sacrilegious. I had a 212 12 string that sounded like a goddamn pipe organ. So glad to see they’re back.
I bought one this weekend!! The really cool folks at Music Villa in Bozeman, MT had one and I grabbed it. Why from MV?? No sales tax, no shipping at least at this price range. Kewl stuff as I live in SoCal in a town where the S/T is 10.25%.. .yikes!! I thank the Lord for allowing me to have the $$'s available to buy this wonderful instrument.... I am blessed.. 👍👍
USA made Guilds are just a lot easier to play than Martins for me because of their more rounded 12" fretboard radius, and their 1 11/16" nut width. The imported Guilds are flatter, like Martins, having a 16" fretboard radius. It took 4 years for my Guild D-40 traditional to open up in the bass range. However, It has had the loveliest treble response of any guitar I ever owned since day one. I don't own a D-55, but I bet a new one would take several years to really open up also. I must admit, though. that the only brand new guitars that I have ever played that sounded already "open" were standard series Martins, certainly not all brand new standard series Martins - just the occasional jewel. And even then, one had to hear it with uncoated PB 13's to really hear it. The strings that Martins are currently shipped with sound quite dead. Pity that.
Do you think it has a brighter/more metallic tone compared to a Martin d28/hd28? I'm looking for a rosewood dread with a nice folky and earth tone.
Apparently there’s a waiting list for these now. I almost snagged a Tacoma era D-55 for $1700 but I could not come up with the cash fast enough. Damn! Guess my old 74’ D-35 will have to do for now.
Guild made great guitars.I have 3 .A gf30,a f45ce and a f65ce in emerald green all from RI
I'm glad you like your D55.
Had a D40 back during my army days. Went to Germany in ‘66 and it went to
Sweden with the Wizards, a traveling band playing EM clubs.
I picked up a 1992 D50 not long ago, and it’s fantastic. I traded a ‘96 Gibson ES-135 for it, from a local shop that deals in vintage gear. They had several old Gibsons and 90’s Martin D35s in the room, and the D50 stood head and shoulders above them all. I wasn’t looking for an acoustic but this guitar was too special to let it go. I have a Martin D-18 that keeps up with it (also a great one), but the Guild just has such a warm, harmonically rich tone that nothing else hits for me.
Really good explaination! Thanks for your thoughts.
John Denver's custom F50r is my favorite "celebrity" guitar of all time. Who knows what happened to it.
I believe it was destroyed on tour from airline baggage handlers. He often used custom tooled leather soft cases. He also reserved some guitars that he liked too much to take outside his home.
Great guitars . But with any guild old or new be aware of string break angle over saddle & actual hight of saddle. Have seen new with issues here.
Very colourful, articulate and entertaining review of such a beautiful acoustic. 👍
I have loved Guild since I bought one in 1977. Sadly, my house flooded and my neck cracked in half while I was at the shelter. I guess it didn't like the sudden change in humidity. I got more compliments on the sound of that guitar.
Radiused tops are not at all uncommon. I gotta think the Martin is the better investment. That said, if this guitar speaks to you....you should own it!
Have a Guild D50 & D55, Great sounding guitars. I find Martin & Taylor necks more to my liking but the Guilds sound unmatched to my ears.
Me too always liked guild . I was just watching ren ferguson talking about his move to cordova / guild the other day. Pretty sure hes gonna keep bringing back everything good about guild. ...cool guitar, and topic
I know you are aware, but almost if not all guitars have a radius to their soundboard. But the radii are measured in feet as opposed to inches. Guitars have tops ranging from a 25’ to 40’ radius. 30’ radius is not uncommon at all. To argue which radius is best, is like asking which guitar is the best. Cheers. Enjoyed the video
Great guitar and you sing very well too Jeremy!
My dad has a '75 and we put 13s on that guitar about a month ago and after playing that with a new set of 13s, I think it is my favorite acoustic dreadnaught. I have came to the conclusion that a Martin HD-28 or maybe HD-35 will always be the best sounding Martin when I am playing it, (I don't play hard enough for a D28 so they end up being a little dead sounding, too bassy). But the D55 might take the cake. He also has a D50, which is a little bit brighter and also a really nice guitar - but we never tried it with 13s.
My personal favorite is the F-50 though. It's a completely different guitar, much more focused in sound, but less forgiving to the player. But it has a very full sound.
Thanks for a fine review of the D55. I play mainly Guild USA guitars. I’ve had a Westerly D55 for years. For performance, the playability and tone are astounding. On occasion I have played it in a bluegrass jam that was heavy on D18s and 28s; several of the Martin players couldn’t believe the sound you can get out of the D55. Having said that, it is a heavy build and it weighs more compared to other brands. To me it doesn’t sound like a Gibson. It sounds like a Guild.
If you want incredible Guild sound without the weight try any of their newer arch backs with NO internal back bracing. I own a cheap Guild AD-3 Nat (450.00) from around 7-8 yrs ago that puts ALL the Martins to shame imo. Best sounding guitar I've ever owned. The missing back bracing is the KEY to make these things HUM like they're alive in your hands.
Incredible.
I’m a traditional country (70s - 90s) & blues player….and I’m pretty sure the D55E is exactly what I’m looking for.
I play a D-55 Tobacco Sunburst with an L.R. Baggs Active soundhole pickup. Love it !!
Awesome review! Would you be kind to link the tuners and pickup on this new model. I was lucky to find a 1981. Beautiful voice you have.
I was so close to buying that guitar about 7 years ago. It was easily one of the top 3 acoustics i’d ever played but i just couldnt come up with the money. It was brand new and i usually buy used gear to save money and i ended up with a used J50 that I’ll never get rid of that was much cheaper. But I will own one one of these days.
Here's a secret for you Nick and others who may be reading this. See if you can find a Guild Arch Back to play. The arch backs produce their own strength and rigidity like a domed roof in a stadium does, are very stable and require NO internal back bracing strips. I was in a guitar shop looking to spend some decent dollars, 1K plus, and played about 15 different guitars up to 3500 kinda range. Was pretty well down between a nice Gibson or a Martin. Then I spotted a Guild arch back.
I took one strum on it and new instantly this was the guitar for me. The difference in depth, projection, play ability (nice thinner neck), sustain and richness blew me away. I'd never heard such acoustic sound as this in my life, and I've had a number of what I thought were great acoustics.
If you can find one to play hold it up vertically with thumb and forefinger where the head stock meets the neck and tap quickly the center of the arch back. It booms like a drum and sustains it. Then do the same thing with any other high end guitar with internal back bracing that have flat backs and you'll immediately feel how dead they ALL sound compared to an arch back Guild.
Best discovery of my life. This Guild is a AD-3 Nat built in Mexico. I bought it about 7-8 yrs ago. I put light strings on it and tune it down a full step. It's a very light weight guitar with a thin neck, easy to play, and with the tuned down lites WOW the thing just hums and resonates and the whole guitar feels alive in your hands.
Don't buy another acoustic until you've managed to try out the Guild arch backs. There's more than one line of them. I assume but don't know that all the arch backs are incredible. That missing internal back bracing makes more difference in the sound of a guitar than ANY other feature I've ever come across. The Mexico plant is now closed but you can find a used AD-3 for CHEAP if you look. This AD-3 cost me new 450.00 and included a good padded Guild case, lololo. It has a solid Sitka Spruce top and laminated Mahogany back and sides. Don't let the laminate fool you. This is hands down the finest sounding guitar I've ever played or owned. I found out later the arch tops started with Epiphone in the '30s for their stand up basses and were designed specifically for much better sound volume and projection before Electric Bass was invented. Anyway this Guild will always be with me, I will NEVER sell it. It beat the 3000.00 Martins and Gibsons like a DRUM, literally...lololo.
I write this review in depth to ALL us poor acoustic players because I want everyone to know you don't need big bucks to find big sound.
Hope this helps people. Comment me back when you confirm what I'm saying. It'll make your day and mine.
Cheers
Richard
West Kelowna
British Columbia, Canada.
The D55 is Richie Havens guitar RIP Richie 🙏.
Same specs as my 1973 Maton Southern Star; one piece Rosewood back and sides; Sitka spruce top; ebony fingerboard and bridge; bone nut and saddle; tortoise shell pic guard; Grover tuners; abelone inlays. It has a bigger and warmer bottom than the Guild you're demonstrating. The best sounding guitar of the guitars of those woods I've played, including Martin. Having said that, good guitars come in all different personalities and woods.
I have a 1981 origional d46 ASH with the Rosewood up the center of the back. Made before they put them out commercially without the Rosewood Strip. Amazing guitar . Also my d50 1973 is doing well although the headstock Cracked through and its fine after regluing.. 20 yrs later. Love guilds ... 2- 1973 Mk-4 s also
With a very limited knowledge of acoustic guitar tones is it accurate to say Taylor, Guild, Gibson, Martin in order from “brightest” to “darkest”
I have a westerly dv-73 from 1995 (only 50 ever made) and it‘s in great shape. Beautiful sound i can‘t stop looking at it. I thought about selling it, but after i‘ve picked it up again lately i think i keep it
This guitar sounds crazy good!!!
Is this best for hillsongs ? Is it good for worshiper hillsong? Which is the best preference for hillsong worshiper through any Martin model or
guild D 55 ? Please suggest??
I have a 1973 d-25 with red stain . It’s a dear friend. In addition the vintage version are a good buy
Great stuff Jeremy. I’m fortunate enough to own an F-55. As you say Guilds just can’t be beaten for appearance. They sound and play great as well.
Hi Jeremy, I came across with a Martin DSS-2018. Do you know anything about this model?? I can get some discount on this guitar, how would you compare it to the D-55? Thank you so much!! I really hope you can reply me :) thanks from Hong Kong!
Hey Jeremy, great to hear your thoughts on the D55 it's on my list of great guitars, I'm slowly working my way through a list of guitars for my forever Guitar and thus is definitely there, as I am in NZ and the opportunity to play one is very low but the video world and people like yourself help👍 My list is
Guild D55
Furch Vintage 3
Huss & Dalton MJ Crossroads
Martin J40
Taylor 818
I have a 1996 Guild DV52NT/HG, I am second owner and it is in excellent condition. It doesnt have the G logo headstock, the binding on the neck and headstock, or the block inlays, it does have ebony fretboard and bridge, and great tone. It was made in Westerly RI. I always wanted the D-55, but when this came around in the condition it was in I jumped on it. Great guitar.
Only the flagships has the G logo.
I have a DV52NT that I bought new in 1993 or 94, and it's the nicest sounding guitar I've ever owned. I have several smaller-bodied ones that are lovely when I don't want the booming dreadnaught, but for sheer tonal awesomeness, you can't beat a big Guild.
Have a D4 NT (Westerly RI) bought it some time back, love Guild Guitars.
I have one of these too. It was my first dread, bought it new in the late 90’s. I have purchased some other high-end boutique guitars in the last few years. All that did was made me realize how good the told “cheap” Guild is. I just upgraded from the original cardboard case because this thing deserves it. I’ve used it everywhere, it’s beat up but sounds great.
Revisiting a classic. In 1987 or so, I caught a steal at a downtown Denver pawn shop with an owner that didn't know what she had. Got a mint D-55 for $450 cash. A good buy? There are some classic Larrivees that can top that iconic headstock -- but nobody else comes close.
My best guitar was a 1977 Guild D50 , best guitar ever heard
I believe you! Man, I'd love to own a vintage one.
You nailed the Tyler Childers! Did you get a locked in price when you ordered? It seems like prices on everything are going up.
I’ve owned many Guilds. My current “keepers” are an early 90’s DV55, a 71 F-100 12 string, and a 2016 m-20.
A considering trading my Martin OM-28e Retro toward a D-55e in Vintage Sunburst. A local store has one. But I need to play it more. I’m not sure if they’ll take the Retro-not sure there’s a market for it. Apparently Martin and Fishman no longer support the Aura F1+ pickup system.
Hey, I know this has nothing to do with what you’re doing today. But, I’ve learned about a guitar I never heard of and you’re the guy who would have the correct info.
What is the deal of the guitar known as “The Marlboro Miles Guitar”?
Do you know anything and have you ever played one?
Thanks
TBH...the first time I heard a good review of the D55 I thought: Man...this guitar, for a dreadnought, sounds as big and full as a Gibson 200 Jumbo. And I stand by it. The D55 puts out so much sound it's like magic.
It absolutely feels like a jumbo. It's big and broad. Gentle giant vibes.
@@JeremySheppard My playing has diminished but my ears still come through. 😀
I owned A second hand 1978D 25 and a brand new 1992DV 52. While you Jeremy love the guild neck, I always felt like I was playing on a telephone pole. I loved the sound but I was more of a rosewood fan than mahogany in those days. I also agree with yourOpinion that the guild sound is not for everyone, although they are incredibly well-made.
You played the wrong Guild. All Guild guitars don't fat necks. I guess the one you had did.
Happy birthday Jeremy,
I started rattling on about guilds and forgot. Hope you are enjoying your day.🎂🎶
I played a Guild jumbo today. $399. Sounded great.
Great video. I just played this this weekend.; However the tone of that thing doesn't come thru at all in a video. That's a said thing for someone looking for that guitar. If someone is even slightly interested based on what you have heard on this vid. Please play it yourself you will not be disappointed 😊
Got one, neck warped once it got out to Santa Fe, NM from NY, seller let me return it and then went HD-28v.
That’s a banger of a guitar! You chose well. I played one I couldn’t afford the day I bought my D18.
It's not quite in the same category or quality but I have an old GAD-50 from back in 05. It was from their first run of Chinese acoustics while Fender owned them, so not a collector model by any means. However, it's great. I've never found a dreadnought I've liked as much and I've bought and sold far too many along the way. I just love the Guild neck and sound, even their foreign models have great quality control and sound.
In own a 2006 D-28. I do like the sound of this the way you were finger picking is what this is made for. but the price kills it.
Happy birthday, Jeremy.!
That's just beautiful
Gerard Stroh***
I have 4 Guild Guitars and 2 of My Guilds Are From The Late 70's an I Have A 1987 Guild D-25 12 String Guitar plays Great and It Has Alot Of Jingle and Sparkle On The on The 3rd to the 7th Fret***
I Also Have Guild B-30 Fretless Acoutic Jumbo bass Guitar The Second One Ever Made and It Was A Special Order Item Made In 1987 and That guild Guitar Has A Super big Jumbo Body and It's Bigger Than A Jumbo Guitar With A 17 Inch Body At The Lower Bout****
5 Years Ago I Got Me A Guild 1512 12 String Guitar and I Tune It Down 2 Steps Down To B To Low B Baritone Guitar And I Have an Octive String Whare The 2nd Pair Of B Strings Are and When Your Put A Capo On The Fifth Fret You Play An E Chord and When You Play an Open G Chord You Can Hear The Octive B Note on The Second String When It's Capo On The 5th Fret and It Sounds Super Awesome and I Use A Custom String Set the low B String Is A 70 Gage Guitar String and I Have 5 Octive Guitar Strings On The Guitar****
I also Have A Guild Jombo Junior 6 String Guitar and for $399 for 3/4 size Guitar It Sounds Awesome****
That's My Guild Guitar Story***
Awesome! I have the same guitar. 2008 D55
I have an intense dislike of first fret inlays. I don't know why. Is that odd? Yes, I suppose. But, as the saying goes, all feelings are internally valid. Nice guitar, though.
Just bought a 1996 d 55 supposedly in excellent condition.. Cant wait to see it
I'm jealous!
Scale length of Guild dreads and jumbos is 25 5/8in or 651mm; that's the longest 'standard' scale length. Longer than Lowden and Furch (650mm) and definitely longer than any Martin.
One thing I noticed when you showed the butt end - no battery box, which implies the pickup is done like an add-on. In three of my guitars I have the K&K Pure Mini pickup, no battery, which is nice. In a fourth guitar that I had build custom, I had an LR Baggs Anthem put in, but I had them (Martin Custom Shop) put the battery box / strap button unit into the butt end. Nothing worse than having to restring a guitar to chance a battery. So I am thinking that may be a data point especially for folks who play on stage. But, it is a stunning guitar.
Battery pack is inside by the neck block. Easy to access when needed. I'd much rather have that than a hole in the guitar.
@@JeremySheppard Thank you. Good to know.
Im looking for a new acoustic guitar in the 2500-4k range. What do you suggest?
I'd love to help! Use my website and book a call and we'll find the perfect guitar to look for.
I played one of these the other day at a guitar shop and I honestly wasn’t impressed at all… not sure if it was just the specific instrument because it sounds great here. Did they used to have rounded backs?
Here's a secret for you Adam and others who may be reading this. See if you can find a Guild Arch Back to play. The arch backs produce their own strength and rigidity like a domed roof in a stadium does, are very stable and require NO internal back bracing strips. I was in a guitar shop looking to spend some decent dollars, 1K plus, and played about 15 different guitars up to 3500 kinda range. Was pretty well down between a nice Gibson or a Martin. Then I spotted a Guild arch back.
I took one strum on it and new instantly this was the guitar for me. The difference in depth, projection, play ability (nice thinner neck), sustain and richness blew me away. I'd never heard such acoustic sound as this in my life, and I've had a number of what I thought were great acoustics.
If you can find one to play hold it up vertically with thumb and forefinger where the head stock meets the neck and tap quickly the center of the arch back. It booms like a drum and sustains it. Then do the same thing with any other high end guitar with internal back bracing that have flat backs and you'll immediately feel how dead they ALL sound compared to an arch back Guild.
Best discovery of my life. This Guild is a AD-3 Nat built in Mexico. I bought it about 7-8 yrs ago. I put light strings on it and tune it down a full step. It's a very light weight guitar with a thin neck, easy to play, and with the tuned down lites WOW the thing just hums and resonates and the whole guitar feels alive in your hands.
Don't buy another acoustic until you've managed to try out the Guild arch backs. There's more than one line of them. I assume but don't know that all the arch backs are incredible. That missing internal back bracing makes more difference in the sound of a guitar than ANY other feature I've ever come across. The Mexico plant is now closed but you can find a used AD-3 for CHEAP if you look. This AD-3 cost me new 450.00 and included a good padded Guild case, lololo. It has a solid Sitka Spruce top and laminated Mahogany back and sides. Don't let the laminate fool you. This is hands down the finest sounding guitar I've ever played or owned. I found out later the arch tops started with Epiphone in the '30s for their stand up basses and were designed specifically for much better sound volume and projection before Electric Bass was invented. Anyway this Guild will always be with me, I will NEVER sell it. It beat the 3000.00 Martins and Gibsons like a DRUM, literally...lololo.
I write this review in depth to ALL us poor acoustic players because I want everyone to know you don't need big bucks to find big sound.
Hope this helps people. Comment me back when you confirm what I'm saying. It'll make your day and mine.
Cheers
Richard
West Kelowna
British Columbia, Canada.
Is this guitar for sale? Awesome video thanks for sharing.
Also check the Enya-T-10D.
I own one, and its amazing..
The price is also competitive with its specs.
Cool video! I'm hoping that you might take a trip up here to Canada to check out some fine Canadian made guitars. We have quite a few luthiers who make incredible instruments. You may be very pleasantly surprised!
...........If it has a (1 5/ 8") nut, or a (1 11/16") nut........forget it.
I need a (1 3/4") nut, for fingerstyle guitar. Why can't most guitar companies offer a wider nut?
I am a taller guy with longer fingers. I usually end up playing my Strat, which has a boat neck
1 3/4" nut, from Warmoth. I also Play my Seagull, Mini-Jumbo, from the Quebec Factory.
I know some guitar companies do offer a wide nut, Most companies don't. Thanks for the video.
Could you please tell me what the nut width is on this guitar? It's a big deal for me as a novice player. Thanks
1 11/16"
When I was a teen in the 60’s
Guilds were referred to as the thinking Man’s Martin
I love that!
Just a killer guitar-