I play one of the original Revstars , a Pacifica 311H and when my best friend died in 2008 his daughter gave me his Red Label FG180 that he'd had since 1972. It needed a neck reset and plays great. I have a silent steel string guitar and an LS6M acoustic .Yamaha are great value at every price point. Great playing guys. Greetings from Liverpool England.
Recently sold my FG820 (which was absolutely killer for the price) and got a used LS-16. It’s a solid wood acoustic and I am blown away at the sound/feel/build quality. They really make fantastic acoustics.
Hey Sean, I have a Yamaha SE211 electric with a locking nut. My first new guitar purchased in the late 80's. It stays in tune while doing dive bombs and has weathered the "put it up for sale" storm. Granted it only has 2 pickups SH, but has coil splitting. I probably paid $300ish for it, but will keep this one as it is a treasured member of the fleet. Great video.
I’ve been playing Yamahas since I switched to nylon strings last year. I have been playing the NTX-5, and the SLG200N, and absolutely LOVE them both! I keep an NTX-3 at my parent’s house for visiting. Sometimes I think I can hear/feel a difference between the two models. Other times I can’t. I absolutely ADORE the Atmosfeel pickup system as well, which is how everyone I play for hears it. I use it with an IR and light reverb.
I've owned many Martins, tried countless Taylors. I purchased my first Yamaha 3 days ago. I can't leave it alone! AC3M DLX is mellow and balanced. With the sound hole cover installed, it allows me to start playing 2 hours before my wife wakes up. It plays as smooth and quick as my SG Standard or American Stratocaster. New subscriber for Hudson, beautiful playing, great vocalist!
I went searching for a good acoustic guitar in different music stores and pawn shops.I tried all kinds,until i tried the Yamaha FG800 at a local guitar store. I could not put it down .I was on my way to my car ,i then turned around and purchased it. I play it everyday, i love it.
The fact that they sold so many budget guitars in the 70s. The stigma stuck..however the red, black label MIJ models are SOLID. REGARDLESS of the price. My first was a FG300(rosewood), and then CJ-818SB (jumbo)I got for 200 bucks. Sound AMAZING. The old GC classicals are solid GOLD.
Not true. Yes, the new red and black labels are all solid, and even my MIC LL-TA with a cream label is all solid. But nearly ALL of the vintage red label Yamahas, (regardless of label color in fact), are laminate back and sides guitars. Sometimes laminate top too. The only all-solid vintage Yamahas are the custom built models. Very rare tho. But the "laminate" on a yamaha is something very different than laminate of other guitars. They have a specific way of lamination wich uses high quality woods in a layering process. It's not the typical press board style laminates you see on other budget brands.
I have a FG-410 that I bought new in 1986, two TA-series (FG-TA and LL-TA), and a FG-830, and I love them all. I have a 30-year-old Guild dread, a Mexican Martin dread, smaller Takamine and Harmony acoustics, and the Yamahas stay firmly among my favorites. Great instruments.👏👏💪
Beginner guitarist here. Bought my Yamaha CG122MCH classical four months ago for $250. The music shop offered me only two nylon string guitars to try. One was bright yellow and I don't remember the make. It was rather heavy which I didn't really like, just personal prefetence. So far I'm very pleased with my choice and expect to enjoy playing it for quite awhile. (Although I'll likely not ever get as good as either of you.)
Here in Denmark we've had many Yamahas in the 50 yeaI can remember. I don't know model numbers. Yamaha doesn't make poor guitars. If it say "Yamaha" it's worth its price.
I gig as a heavy strummer on the beach in South Florida- 20 one hour sets a week. I play the Yamaha A series guitars w the SRT and SRT2 pickup system and they are built like tanks with phenomenal intonation, never issues! People are always asking what Taylor model it is?! I HATE the pretentious scoff I receive when I say “Yamaha!” I think they sound better than most higher end guitars. The new red label is amazing. I’m not a fan boy or needy gear guy, but these guitars spank guitars that cost twice as much! I play Jimmy Buffet and tourist fan favs, but I have to say I love the love for Elliot Smith. Kings Crossing is almost too real me! I am a fan of Elliot. Thanks for the fun review!
Proud Yamaha owner here. When purchasing my acoustic I went to my local guitar store and literally that was the first guitar I seen. Avoiding it and thinking Yamaha makes dirt bikes!!! I played all the different brands and I had some kind of issue with them. I went for the Yamaha in the end and was sold and bought on the spot❤
I bought an F310 model from a second Hand shop for £25 its bloody amazing, I have a d28 sigma as my main guitar AT THE MOMENT BUT JUST LOVE TO PLAY THIS 40 YEAR OLD BABY 🇬🇧❤️🙌
I’ve just spent 3 months looking for a new acoustic. I currently own 9 guitars. Have owned and played everything from Lowdens, Gibsons, Taylor’s and Martins. I gravitated initially towards a really nice Lowden, but then stumbled upon the Yamaha red labels and Japanese built models. Was lucky enough to have access to lots of the A, F and L series and went very close to settling on the FGX5, but the AC5R just felt, sounded and looked better IMO. Haven’t been able to put it down since and am considering selling my Taylor and buying the FGX5 too.
Love Yamaha classical guitars . Their studio amps are also superb. So good, I often use their little breadloaf sized amp for live gigs.! Have influenced a dozen friends to buy one just by playing through one. No sales pitch needed. Thank you for your video !👍🏽
I listen to the homie playing the $200 guitar and Sean playing the $1600 guitar and they both sound great. You read Yamaha acoustic reviews and they are always glowing. From the Revstar to the beginner acoustic. People always talk Squier for beginner electrics and they're great, but so are Pacificas.
I have a Yamaha FS 720S, a smaller body folk acoustic I bought in 2010. A little muddy sounding, but the strings you recommend helped to brighten and separate the tones a bit. It's sturdy and wasn't expensive. I toss it in my car with no case, occasionally leave it in the garage in the summer/winter, etc., and it never complains.. Action is a bit high, but I like the slightly shorter scale. If I ever upload a video, ya'll will get to hear it! Nice performance 👍
My first guitar was the Yamaha F310 that I bought in Bangalore with my first monthly salary. I had the buyers remorse cuz it cost me 7000 INR (equivalent of $110 back then) which seemed like a lot of money for me. But it was the best investment. Now I live in the US and I have a Fender strat and a Taylor but that Yamaha is still going strong. Whenever I go to India, I restring it and it just plays so well, better than ever before. Its been more than a decade! Hats off Yamaha
I just picked up a Yamaha AC3M DLX used and can't put it down. The workmanship is flawless and it does exactly what I expected and wanted it to do, crystal clear highs and more subdued bass. I have a 1980s Guild d50, to compare all acoustics to and my Yamaha with all solid woods is the real deal. Check one out. Plus, I have a Yamaha Revstar electric, awesome guitar.
I have an SA-15 and love it. Most folks think of school instruments when they think Yamaha. Few big pop acts have yielded Yamaha, and that's probably the main factor in their remaining elusive.
my dad was a virtuoso picker - he could have bought and played any guitar his heart desired. He had a very nice Epiphone Olympic that he bought in 1939 when he was commissioned in the Army , but it hadn't aged well. He liked playing my Hummingbird and was considering a J-45 when he picked up a used Yamaha FG300. Most folks equate them with plywood- actually three cross grained plies of incredibly precisely cut wood. Yamaha's move from "solid" wood guitars was made because - prior to airtight, insulated shipping containers - their relatively fragile solid guitars didn't do well in the steel holds of the day. They put a lot of engineering and artistic effort in building those red labels. That particular FG300 was a very nice guitar - reminded me of a J-45 in weight, feel and tone. It's still in the family, neck and belly are still like new, and with modern strings, it really sounds good and except for a few divots in the fingerboard, looks and feels like it did when it was new. . As I recall, Country Joe McDonald played one.
Love Yamaha! I recently got the AC3R and swapped out the nut and saddle with a trimmed up AC5R nut and saddle. Sounds just as good as the AC5R and the build quality is amazing all for about $800 =)
I recently got a used LL16M and love it. One day I’ll step up to a “5” in one variation or another. Another great video. You’ve helped me more than most!
I concur. Picked up a floor model LL16m for 600 bucks a few years ago (I believe through Sweetwater) Blown away by the quality build and phenomenal sound, will definitely give $1500 Taylor's and Martin's a run for their money!!!
My first good guitar when I was a teen in the late 70's was a Yamaha FG340. It was a great guitar that I wish I still had. I had it with me onboard ship in the Navy during the 80's and it served me well. Unfortunately, it got damaged back then and instead of having it repaired, I traded it in, but I really wish I still had it.
I too have a guitar for every tuning. That's how you end up 12 acoustics... 😅 - Standard - Standard half-step down (main guitar) - Standard half-step down (backup for my main guitar) - Open F - Open C - DADEAD - DADGAD - Open D - Drop D - Nashville Tuning - B-Standard (Baritone) - C-Standard (Rubber Bridge) Ok, listing it like this makes me realize I might have a problem... 😂😅
I own this model as well and it has become my favorite acoustic guitar since it has opened up a bit. Also finding the right strings for it after trying a few options made all the difference. I also own the FGX5, also a great guitar from Yamaha Japan factory. Really makes me want to get a hold of the higher end Japanese made guitars. Great guitar brand despite also making motorcycles and surround sound systems. A Revstar standard is now on my list.
I have a Yamaha APX4A bought second hand from a friend for £120 - super slim body and got action really low. My go to guitar when practicing at home - great plugged in to BUT you know what I never use it at busker/speakeasy nights preferring my GSmini Koa e or my Guild M120E Cherry as both are small bodied. I gave up using my Faith Venus as too heavy. There’s definitely snobbery around playing some guitars but it’s what you feel comfortable with 🎸🎙🎶
Rewatching this AGAIN. You guys sound fantastic! Hudson, man, your vocals are top notch as well-- and that's coming from someone who NEVER wants to hear anyone sing ES but ES. Simple, straight, honest..so good. I could be wrong, but didn't ES record with a D28? I know he played the red label on the road, but I think his later studio stuff was a D28. Also, I'm keeping a guitar in standard C; any advice on strings? I've got some mediums on now, but if anyone has a set you love for lower tunings I'd love to hear. Thanks! Favorite vid on your channel, Sean. I'll be back in another month lol!
I was at a Yamaha motorcycle service training seminar and they showed us a video about the history of the company. The founder repaired an old piano and thought he could build a better piano than than the one he was working on.
I think it's a bit smaller I think it the FS800. As an FG800 owner myself I advise people to spend $100 more and get the FG830. That is what I got my stepson as a birthday gift. I find it significantly better with a better sound and better playability. Or an Alvarez ad30, more or less the same thing.
My first guitar was a Martin DRS1. My second was a Yamaha FSX700SC. My third guitar was a 2011 Martin 000-18. My only current guitar is my Yamaha, I sold both Martins. I’m an idiot, but still love my Yamaha.
I have been playing Yamaha apx 500 iii guitar for like almost eight years now.. I find them to sound brighter and cool.. Your yamaha guitar has got the similar sound and vibe to it.. By the way cool performance guys.. 🙂
I had every hi end acoustic and always turned my nose up at Yamaha, how wrong I was, I tried an FS5 and thought it sounded and played like a guitar 3 times the price, I ditched most of my collection and play nothing else. My playing has improved considerably as they are well set up straight out of the box, rarely do they need a minor tweak, well worth a try if you are not sure, thanks for the content, great channel.
I wasn't excepting it to be Elliott Smith because I see him a a songwriter before all, but that's so spot on. I heard a comparison video with Martin, Gibson and Yamaha, and when I heard the Yamaha, I was clearly: That's Elliott Smith's sound.
I purchased a Red label Yamaha about 3 months ago. I have had an older Yamaha for about 10 years now (about $400 guitar). It plays well but just lacks the warm sound. I thought the new purchase would change that, it did. The guitar did not play well, and felt like plastic to me. I returned it for a Martin D16 E and I am telling you the difference is amazing. I am not going back that way again.
I have a yamaha red label fg 180 that I bought new in I think 1969. I will keep it until I die and will leave it to my daughter on condition that she never sells it. I had it fitted with a de armand pick up. It sounds awesome both unplugged and through an amp. I rarely play it because it is so very precious to me. Truly it is a guitar in a million.
I recently bought a 22 year old Yamaha LL400 in mint condition. Handcrafted in Japan by one luthier! All solid with a fine aged Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides. Payed around 1K but if it would be equal to todays worth and standard it would be a 3K guitar. Even their entry level guitars made in China are superb (LL16/LL-TA). Bang for the buck. My next one will be the FS9 or FG9. And generally to speak, before i´d buy a 6k Martin, i´d rather get a 4k Yamaha hand build in Japan with the same quality and sound. Can´t do anything wrong mit Yamaha (or K.Yairi and Alvarez)
I was slightly disappointed with mine. 6 yrs old now sounds most excellent, truly I love it. but i had to get my action lowered quite a bit. But now gigs great and I'm proud of my Yamaha A5R
I started playing guitar 2 decades ago, and I clearly remember how the yamaha acoustics I came across around 2005 to 2009 felt different compared to the yamaha acoustics I've played in the recent years. Back then the guitars felt really stiff in some way and as a brand that's often recommended to beginners it felt like the guitar was fighting against the learning process. I learned my basics on a shitty Cort acoustic and even that guitar felt more comfortable than the brand new Yamahas in store back then. That being said, when I recently shopped for a parlor sized main daily practice guitar their CSF3M really fxxking surprised me in overall build quality and playability. For a full solid board parlor in its condition I'd not be surprised it goes above 1k pre tax but I copped mine with 750 Canadian fitting gigbag included. One of the best purchases I've made in a while.
I LOVED my Yamaha RGX 603a! Bought it from a friend who bought it new. He paid $450 out the door with case. I got it for half that a little over a year later. Divorce has that kind of effect on a man. DGAF any more!
Sean I swear by Yamaha. That's all I played by entire life. The last one I had was fg 800 which fell and broke about 6yrs ago... I have since replaced it w an fgx800c for under 300 box and dude I don't need anything else! This guitar has all the nuances. The natural sound sounds pre-equed and the elec acous is to die for! But again great content! However didn't hear u ans ur title ques unless I missed it.
I've compared the AC3R with the AC5R and the 3 is considerably lighter weight, although it has heavier tunners... For the price I would go with the 3 , probably best value for the money
@@seandaniel23 Sean it is beautiful to play. I had mine set up with a PLEK machine too, my logic being that the Stainless Steel frets should last a great deal of time and the carbon fibre reinforced neck and body will hopefully prove extra stable. My poor USA Vintage '62 re-issue Strat which I have had since 1989 hasn't been getting much of a look in live these last 14 months! Love the contouring, very comfortable and similar to a Strat. The P90s sound great. I am definitely a single coil guy. The build quality combined with the lovely satin finish neck is superb. I think they look good too! Kind regards.
Yamahas are great. I have a Yamaha strat copy from 1989, a Yamaha FGX800C acoustic electric dreadnaught cutaway $300, an FSC TA Transacoustic electric that has onboard effects of reverb and chorus without being plugged in $779. It is a concert size cutaway beauty. I have a Yamaha APX600 thinline acoustic electric $339 on sale. They are all great guitars. I a n so have a Yamaha keyboard EW300 which is a nice keyboard with nice sound.
The first guitar I ever bought with my own money was a Yamaha CPX 700 - best purchase I've ever made. That guitar was my main guitar for 5+ years and I would constantly get asked what brand that guitar was. I got many surprised or even shocked looks when I told them it was a Yamaha 😅
Who is Elliot Smith, should I know him? I have a Yamaha LL11-e bought new in 2001, with an external pre-amp, blending piezo and mic pickups. Great playing and sounding guitar. I've never felt the need to buy another acoustic since I got it, unlike electrics where I have a roomful.
Loved still love Elliot Smith .... also I've played a Yamaha apx4a for about 20years....... I have a Taylor had a Martin but still go to the Yamaha. Once I started playing in a band it was the 2 lead guitarists who commented on the feel an sound of the Yamaha..... the neck especially.....1 at the time if yer ever selling it let me have 1st shout....... I think they dabbled in Motorbikes too...😉....
A lot of guitar players love Yamaha. I have a pretty sweet mid-range Yamaha acoustic electric that I definitely pick up. And they really do have some pretty sweet models in their lineup.... You should have said, you definitely aren't just using the mic at the end there... There's definitely a mix of the mic and the piezo going on
I SOO badly want to save for a Lowden because I absolutely love the voicing on Lowdens. But then I hear these Yamahas and though they don't sound like a Lowden, the value to quality of sound ratio is just off the charts and makes me wonder if I should just forget those ideas of a boutique guitar, get a nice Yamaha and use the money saved on lessons. 😆
When someone ask me what's a good first electric guitar I always recommend the Yamaha Pacifica. It's a good first guitar and comes pretty well set up from the box.
Billy Shehann plays a Yamaha bass and I have many Yamaha instraments saxes,drum sets ,trumpets, organs, they make excellents instraments and amps and outboard motors they even made motors for Ford cars
this was super fun! thanks for having me
really good singing!
Strumming hard its got the "jangle", superb.
Bro u have an amazing voice with some superb voice articulation! Wow! I'll Def check out ur channel!
been a fan of that clean voice for a while. Do you play all your covers in C standard out of curiosity?
You guys sound fantastic together.
Great singing and playing.
I play one of the original Revstars , a Pacifica 311H and when my best friend died in 2008 his daughter gave me his Red Label FG180 that he'd had since 1972. It needed a neck reset and plays great. I have a silent steel string guitar and an LS6M acoustic .Yamaha are great value at every price point. Great playing guys. Greetings from Liverpool England.
Recently sold my FG820 (which was absolutely killer for the price) and got a used LS-16. It’s a solid wood acoustic and I am blown away at the sound/feel/build quality. They really make fantastic acoustics.
Hey Sean, I have a Yamaha SE211 electric with a locking nut. My first new guitar purchased in the late 80's. It stays in tune while doing dive bombs and has weathered the "put it up for sale" storm. Granted it only has 2 pickups SH, but has coil splitting. I probably paid $300ish for it, but will keep this one as it is a treasured member of the fleet. Great video.
I’ve been playing Yamahas since I switched to nylon strings last year. I have been playing the NTX-5, and the SLG200N, and absolutely LOVE them both! I keep an NTX-3 at my parent’s house for visiting. Sometimes I think I can hear/feel a difference between the two models. Other times I can’t. I absolutely ADORE the Atmosfeel pickup system as well, which is how everyone I play for hears it. I use it with an IR and light reverb.
Sounds like a great setup!
Check out John Denver - he played Yamaha throughout the 70’s & 80’s…. Also a super great underrated guitarist… 🎸💙
Legend
Oh yes he certainly is…. Have you ever seen the clip of John playing Bells of Rhymney on the 12 string?? 🎸💙
Mac Wiseman played a killer flagship Japanese Yamaha
Such perfection of pitch, transparency and modulation in the singer's voice. Many compliments man.
I've owned many Martins, tried countless Taylors. I purchased my first Yamaha 3 days ago. I can't leave it alone! AC3M DLX is mellow and balanced. With the sound hole cover installed, it allows me to start playing 2 hours before my wife wakes up. It plays as smooth and quick as my SG Standard or American Stratocaster.
New subscriber for Hudson, beautiful playing, great vocalist!
I'm a massive fan and owner of Yamaha guitars , drum hardware , recording hardware and so on!
Yamaha slays at all levels!
I have Fsx5. Punches way above its weight class. Awesome guitar.
Such a good one!
I just bought an AC3M DLX and it sounds amazing. Has deep, rich tone. They definitely need to be talked about more.
I went searching for a good acoustic guitar in different music stores and pawn shops.I tried all kinds,until i tried the Yamaha FG800 at a local guitar store. I could not put it down .I was on my way to my car ,i then turned around and purchased it. I play it everyday, i love it.
I feel like Yamaha used to be seen as “a cheap alternative” but I’ve come to realize in recent years how good some of the models actually are
So good
You are correct.
Now the collectors caught on. Try to find a 70s black label. Aka FG300
I bought the FGX recently. I have Taylor, Gibson, Martin, Takamine, and others. I love the Yamaha best for my style.
Yamaha's are definitely underrated. Always love the Elliott Smith content. Just subbed to Hudson, he's so good!
He’s amazing right?!
Please don't say underated. They are rated. More like overlooked.
The fact that they sold so many budget guitars in the 70s. The stigma stuck..however the red, black label MIJ models are SOLID. REGARDLESS of the price. My first was a FG300(rosewood), and then CJ-818SB (jumbo)I got for 200 bucks. Sound AMAZING. The old GC classicals are solid GOLD.
Not true. Yes, the new red and black labels are all solid, and even my MIC LL-TA with a cream label is all solid.
But nearly ALL of the vintage red label Yamahas, (regardless of label color in fact), are laminate back and sides guitars. Sometimes laminate top too. The only all-solid vintage Yamahas are the custom built models. Very rare tho.
But the "laminate" on a yamaha is something very different than laminate of other guitars. They have a specific way of lamination wich uses high quality woods in a layering process. It's not the typical press board style laminates you see on other budget brands.
I have a FG-410 that I bought new in 1986, two TA-series (FG-TA and LL-TA), and a FG-830, and I love them all. I have a 30-year-old Guild dread, a Mexican Martin dread, smaller Takamine and Harmony acoustics, and the Yamahas stay firmly among my favorites. Great instruments.👏👏💪
Nice guitar and great performance Hudson!
Hudson is so good!
@@seandaniel23 He sure is 👍
Beginner guitarist here. Bought my Yamaha CG122MCH classical four months ago for $250. The music shop offered me only two nylon string guitars to try. One was bright yellow and I don't remember the make. It was rather heavy which I didn't really like, just personal prefetence.
So far I'm very pleased with my choice and expect to enjoy playing it for quite awhile. (Although I'll likely not ever get as good as either of you.)
Here in Denmark we've had many Yamahas in the 50 yeaI can remember. I don't know model numbers. Yamaha doesn't make poor guitars. If it say "Yamaha" it's worth its price.
I gig as a heavy strummer on the beach in South Florida- 20 one hour sets a week. I play the Yamaha A series guitars w the SRT and SRT2 pickup system and they are built like tanks with phenomenal intonation, never issues! People are always asking what Taylor model it is?! I HATE the pretentious scoff I receive when I say “Yamaha!” I think they sound better than most higher end guitars. The new red label is amazing. I’m not a fan boy or needy gear guy, but these guitars spank guitars that cost twice as much! I play Jimmy Buffet and tourist fan favs, but I have to say I love the love for Elliot Smith. Kings Crossing is almost too real me! I am a fan of Elliot. Thanks for the fun review!
Love the sound of that guitar. That combined with that voice, wow really nice!
Proud Yamaha owner here. When purchasing my acoustic I went to my local guitar store and literally that was the first guitar I seen. Avoiding it and thinking Yamaha makes dirt bikes!!! I played all the different brands and I had some kind of issue with them. I went for the Yamaha in the end and was sold and bought on the spot❤
Hudson is so good!
I love my Yamaha guitars. I have an FG800 and a Yamaha classical. They are both solid players and will never leave my collection.
Same here lol
I bought an F310 model from a second Hand shop for £25 its bloody amazing, I have a d28 sigma as my main guitar AT THE MOMENT BUT JUST LOVE TO PLAY THIS 40 YEAR OLD BABY 🇬🇧❤️🙌
Keep on rockin!
I’ve just spent 3 months looking for a new acoustic. I currently own 9 guitars.
Have owned and played everything from Lowdens, Gibsons, Taylor’s and Martins.
I gravitated initially towards a really nice Lowden, but then stumbled upon the Yamaha red labels and Japanese built models.
Was lucky enough to have access to lots of the A, F and L series and went very close to settling on the FGX5, but the AC5R just felt, sounded and looked better IMO. Haven’t been able to put it down since and am considering selling my Taylor and buying the FGX5 too.
Try some Furch and Dowina
I bought an FG 180 Red Label 3 months ago and it's freaking awesome.
Congrats on the new-ish guitar!
Love Yamaha classical guitars . Their studio amps are also superb. So good, I often use their little breadloaf sized amp for live gigs.! Have influenced a dozen friends to buy one just by playing through one. No sales pitch needed. Thank you for your video !👍🏽
I listen to the homie playing the $200 guitar and Sean playing the $1600 guitar and they both sound great. You read Yamaha acoustic reviews and they are always glowing. From the Revstar to the beginner acoustic.
People always talk Squier for beginner electrics and they're great, but so are Pacificas.
All great stuff
Yeah I would choose a Yamaha Pacifica (or an Ibanez Gio for that matter) over a beginner Squier anyday.
I've owned 3 yamaha acoustics snd ysed them all in studio for recording and live on stage! Great sound
Glad to see requires no sharp objects to open the box. The Yamaha guitars sound great. Hudson has a fabulous
I have a Yamaha FS 720S, a smaller body folk acoustic I bought in 2010. A little muddy sounding, but the strings you recommend helped to brighten and separate the tones a bit. It's sturdy and wasn't expensive. I toss it in my car with no case, occasionally leave it in the garage in the summer/winter, etc., and it never complains.. Action is a bit high, but I like the slightly shorter scale. If I ever upload a video, ya'll will get to hear it! Nice performance 👍
My first guitar was the Yamaha F310 that I bought in Bangalore with my first monthly salary. I had the buyers remorse cuz it cost me 7000 INR (equivalent of $110 back then) which seemed like a lot of money for me. But it was the best investment. Now I live in the US and I have a Fender strat and a Taylor but that Yamaha is still going strong. Whenever I go to India, I restring it and it just plays so well, better than ever before. Its been more than a decade! Hats off Yamaha
I just picked up a Yamaha AC3M DLX used and can't put it down. The workmanship is flawless and it does exactly what I expected and wanted it to do, crystal clear highs and more subdued bass. I have a 1980s Guild d50, to compare all acoustics to and my Yamaha with all solid woods is the real deal. Check one out. Plus, I have a Yamaha Revstar electric, awesome guitar.
I absolutely looove my Japan made Yamaha FS5 and FG5 but I'm hardly a guitar player hahaha.
I have an SA-15 and love it. Most folks think of school instruments when they think Yamaha. Few big pop acts have yielded Yamaha, and that's probably the main factor in their remaining elusive.
I'm in love with my SA-30 hollowbody ever since I bought it in 1988. It's from 1968-1970 I think. I really like the sound.
I love yamaha acoustic guitars... I've got 6.... LL6, Apx600, Ntx700 nylon, FG-TA, FS-TA and Apx700II-12.... all awesome
Great guitars
my dad was a virtuoso picker - he could have bought and played any guitar his heart desired. He had a very nice Epiphone Olympic that he bought in 1939 when he was commissioned in the Army , but it hadn't aged well. He liked playing my Hummingbird and was considering a J-45 when he picked up a used Yamaha FG300. Most folks equate them with plywood- actually three cross grained plies of incredibly precisely cut wood. Yamaha's move from "solid" wood guitars was made because - prior to airtight, insulated shipping containers - their relatively fragile solid guitars didn't do well in the steel holds of the day. They put a lot of engineering and artistic effort in building those red labels. That particular FG300 was a very nice guitar - reminded me of a J-45 in weight, feel and tone. It's still in the family, neck and belly are still like new, and with modern strings, it really sounds good and except for a few divots in the fingerboard, looks and feels like it did when it was new. . As I recall, Country Joe McDonald played one.
Love Yamaha! I recently got the AC3R and swapped out the nut and saddle with a trimmed up AC5R nut and saddle. Sounds just as good as the AC5R and the build quality is amazing all for about $800 =)
I recently got a used LL16M and love it. One day I’ll step up to a “5” in one variation or another. Another great video. You’ve helped me more than most!
The LL series is wild.
I have an LL-TA - it's a cannon... The handful of guitar player friends of mine who have heard it have all been shocked.
I need to try one!
I concur. Picked up a floor model LL16m for 600 bucks a few years ago (I believe through Sweetwater)
Blown away by the quality build and phenomenal sound, will definitely give $1500 Taylor's and Martin's a run for their money!!!
@@johnwalenski1555 Not just a run for their money, my Taylor's and Breedlove haven't come out of their cases since I got a LL-TA.
Good enough for Bert Jansch. Own an LL36, A4K, LL16-12. Love them all.
My first good guitar when I was a teen in the late 70's was a Yamaha FG340. It was a great guitar that I wish I still had. I had it with me onboard ship in the Navy during the 80's and it served me well. Unfortunately, it got damaged back then and instead of having it repaired, I traded it in, but I really wish I still had it.
I’ve still got mine. Just put a pickup in it for doing open mic nights. Still love it!
to have loved and lost!
I too have a guitar for every tuning. That's how you end up 12 acoustics... 😅
- Standard
- Standard half-step down (main guitar)
- Standard half-step down (backup for my main guitar)
- Open F
- Open C
- DADEAD
- DADGAD
- Open D
- Drop D
- Nashville Tuning
- B-Standard (Baritone)
- C-Standard (Rubber Bridge)
Ok, listing it like this makes me realize I might have a problem... 😂😅
haha, you and me both
All Yamaha's?
@@dirkjanklijn9949 No, only the backup for the main guitar and the Open C.
I own this model as well and it has become my favorite acoustic guitar since it has opened up a bit. Also finding the right strings for it after trying a few options made all the difference. I also own the FGX5, also a great guitar from Yamaha Japan factory. Really makes me want to get a hold of the higher end Japanese made guitars. Great guitar brand despite also making motorcycles and surround sound systems. A Revstar standard is now on my list.
I have a Yamaha APX4A bought second hand from a friend for £120 - super slim body and got action really low. My go to guitar when practicing at home - great plugged in to BUT you know what I never use it at busker/speakeasy nights preferring my GSmini Koa e or my Guild M120E Cherry as both are small bodied. I gave up using my Faith Venus as too heavy. There’s definitely snobbery around playing some guitars but it’s what you feel comfortable with 🎸🎙🎶
I had a yamaha electric when i was a teenager. I'm 45 now but I remember loving it.
Classic
@@seandaniel23 I also agree with you guys. Elliott Smith was a genius 👏
Rewatching this AGAIN. You guys sound fantastic! Hudson, man, your vocals are top notch as well-- and that's coming from someone who NEVER wants to hear anyone sing ES but ES. Simple, straight, honest..so good. I could be wrong, but didn't ES record with a D28? I know he played the red label on the road, but I think his later studio stuff was a D28. Also, I'm keeping a guitar in standard C; any advice on strings? I've got some mediums on now, but if anyone has a set you love for lower tunings I'd love to hear. Thanks! Favorite vid on your channel, Sean. I'll be back in another month lol!
My first quality acoustic was a Yamaha fg 180 . Excellent instrument and for not much money . Great motorcycles to
Great stuff
Yamaha was started as a musical instrument company. In fact, its logo is three tuning forks arranged in the “triad’ pattern.
I was at a Yamaha motorcycle service training seminar and they showed us a video about the history of the company. The founder repaired an old piano and thought he could build a better piano than than the one he was working on.
I like that you’re featuring other artists, Sweetwater should give that kid a Yamaha of his own
Doin my best!
I believe he's playing the FG800. The playability on this is phenomenal which is exactly what is needed for beginner players. The model sells a ton.
I think it's a bit smaller I think it the FS800.
As an FG800 owner myself I advise people to spend $100 more and get the FG830. That is what I got my stepson as a birthday gift. I find it significantly better with a better sound and better playability.
Or an Alvarez ad30, more or less the same thing.
My first guitar was a Martin DRS1. My second was a Yamaha FSX700SC. My third guitar was a 2011 Martin 000-18. My only current guitar is my Yamaha, I sold both Martins. I’m an idiot, but still love my Yamaha.
Haha, hey all good options
Beautiful singing
I have been playing Yamaha apx 500 iii guitar for like almost eight years now.. I find them to sound brighter and cool.. Your yamaha guitar has got the similar sound and vibe to it.. By the way cool performance guys.. 🙂
Thanks so miuch!
You're Welcome bro
I had every hi end acoustic and always turned my nose up at Yamaha, how wrong I was, I tried an FS5 and thought it sounded and played like a guitar 3 times the price, I ditched most of my collection and play nothing else. My playing has improved considerably as they are well set up straight out of the box, rarely do they need a minor tweak, well worth a try if you are not sure, thanks for the content, great channel.
I have an A1M that looks nearly identical to your new one but it's mid tier and dreadnought size. It's a great acoustic.
I wasn't excepting it to be Elliott Smith because I see him a a songwriter before all, but that's so spot on. I heard a comparison video with Martin, Gibson and Yamaha, and when I heard the Yamaha, I was clearly: That's Elliott Smith's sound.
Such a sweet voice =) perfect singing
I purchased a Red label Yamaha about 3 months ago. I have had an older Yamaha for about 10 years now (about $400 guitar). It plays well but just lacks the warm sound. I thought the new purchase would change that, it did. The guitar did not play well, and felt like plastic to me. I returned it for a Martin D16 E and I am telling you the difference is amazing. I am not going back that way again.
Yamaha makes amazing motorcycles, great boat engines, some of the best pianos and keyboards, guitars, they do nearly everything and they do it well.
I have a yamaha red label fg 180 that I bought new in I think 1969. I will keep it until I die and will leave it to my daughter on condition that she never sells it. I had it fitted with a de armand pick up. It sounds awesome both unplugged and through an amp. I rarely play it because it is so very precious to me. Truly it is a guitar in a million.
I recently bought a 22 year old Yamaha LL400 in mint condition. Handcrafted in Japan by one luthier! All solid with a fine aged Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides. Payed around 1K but if it would be equal to todays worth and standard it would be a 3K guitar. Even their entry level guitars made in China are superb (LL16/LL-TA). Bang for the buck. My next one will be the FS9 or FG9. And generally to speak, before i´d buy a 6k Martin, i´d rather get a 4k Yamaha hand build in Japan with the same quality and sound. Can´t do anything wrong mit Yamaha (or K.Yairi and Alvarez)
I was slightly disappointed with mine. 6 yrs old now sounds most excellent, truly I love it.
but i had to get my action lowered quite a bit. But now gigs great and I'm proud of my Yamaha A5R
love Yamaha's I have, in order of preference SA 2200, APX-4a, LL16-12, AES 720, AC3-R
I started playing guitar 2 decades ago, and I clearly remember how the yamaha acoustics I came across around 2005 to 2009 felt different compared to the yamaha acoustics I've played in the recent years. Back then the guitars felt really stiff in some way and as a brand that's often recommended to beginners it felt like the guitar was fighting against the learning process. I learned my basics on a shitty Cort acoustic and even that guitar felt more comfortable than the brand new Yamahas in store back then.
That being said, when I recently shopped for a parlor sized main daily practice guitar their CSF3M really fxxking surprised me in overall build quality and playability. For a full solid board parlor in its condition I'd not be surprised it goes above 1k pre tax but I copped mine with 750 Canadian fitting gigbag included. One of the best purchases I've made in a while.
I LOVED my Yamaha RGX 603a! Bought it from a friend who bought it new. He paid $450 out the door with case. I got it for half that a little over a year later. Divorce has that kind of effect on a man. DGAF any more!
I have a Yamaha A5R they are just really great guitars and you’re gonna have to spend twice the money to get anything decently close.
Really great value
Sean I swear by Yamaha. That's all I played by entire life. The last one I had was fg 800 which fell and broke about 6yrs ago... I have since replaced it w an fgx800c for under 300 box and dude I don't need anything else! This guitar has all the nuances. The natural sound sounds pre-equed and the elec acous is to die for! But again great content! However didn't hear u ans ur title ques unless I missed it.
Yamaha c40 classic one was the most famous for first guitar (in Russia). I have their bass as well and it’s a good guitar
They have so many.
I learned on a C-40 too. I loved the sound of it, as did all the 'real' players I knew who ever picked it up. It broke my heart when it got stolen.
I'll never forget hearing ES's version of "Because" during the credits of the movie "American Beauty". Hauntingly beautiful.
Such a legend
Way ahead of his time and gone way before his time
I play with a Pacifica 611HFM its actually really good the bridge is stable. Hopefully i can get my hands on the trans-acoustic.
Man that voice is awesome
I have an LL6M A.R.E.,LS6, and an FG830. I also have some Alvarez guitars that are great. Yamaha's engineering is superb.
I've compared the AC3R with the AC5R and the 3 is considerably lighter weight, although it has heavier tunners... For the price I would go with the 3 , probably best value for the money
Love my crisp gold P90 loaded Revstar Pro.
I’ve seen though but never played one!
@@seandaniel23 Sean it is beautiful to play. I had mine set up with a PLEK machine too, my logic being that the Stainless Steel frets should last a great deal of time and the carbon fibre reinforced neck and body will hopefully prove extra stable. My poor USA Vintage '62 re-issue Strat which I have had since 1989 hasn't been getting much of a look in live these last 14 months! Love the contouring, very comfortable and similar to a Strat. The P90s sound great. I am definitely a single coil guy. The build quality combined with the lovely satin finish neck is superb. I think they look good too! Kind regards.
The only brand I play is my Martin Sweetwater Select Sean Daniel 00X2E Acoustic-electric Guitar - Natural.
Hell yea!
Yamahas are great. I have a Yamaha strat copy from 1989, a Yamaha FGX800C acoustic electric dreadnaught cutaway $300, an FSC TA Transacoustic electric that has onboard effects of reverb and chorus without being plugged in $779. It is a concert size cutaway beauty. I have a Yamaha APX600 thinline acoustic electric $339 on sale. They are all great guitars. I a n so have a Yamaha keyboard EW300 which is a nice keyboard with nice sound.
The first guitar I ever bought with my own money was a Yamaha CPX 700 - best purchase I've ever made. That guitar was my main guitar for 5+ years and I would constantly get asked what brand that guitar was. I got many surprised or even shocked looks when I told them it was a Yamaha 😅
They’re so good!
Is that an FS-800 your friend is playing, Sean? Asking near the beginning.
I have a Yamaha FG 110 red label. Beautiful sounding guitar. Other than Martin, it’s my fave. I’ve never tried a pricer Yamaha.
I've had my Yamaha for about 15 years. It was about 120 bucks. Still going strong
Question, using the mics setting, how much does the sound change based on where you strum/pick?
Overall everything is beautiful
Don't forget the v8 engine they somehow got into the Volvo xc90, same as the outboard motor. I LOVE my Yamaha oak custom drums...
The Yam 3L Shogun v6 was the nucleus of the first gen Taurus SHO... and I think the Volvo S60 also got the V8
Who is Elliot Smith, should I know him?
I have a Yamaha LL11-e bought new in 2001, with an external pre-amp, blending piezo and mic pickups. Great playing and sounding guitar. I've never felt the need to buy another acoustic since I got it, unlike electrics where I have a roomful.
I had a Yamaha in the 70s adjustable bridge ply wood glue all over but every one I played since had been a big improvement 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Loved still love Elliot Smith .... also I've played a Yamaha apx4a for about 20years....... I have a Taylor had a Martin but still go to the Yamaha. Once I started playing in a band it was the 2 lead guitarists who commented on the feel an sound of the Yamaha..... the neck especially.....1 at the time if yer ever selling it let me have 1st shout.......
I think they dabbled in Motorbikes too...😉....
And pianos.
No TVs though. Too passive an activity.
Love my Yamaha. Being playing it for 33 years.
beautifull voice, awesome guitar
Hudson is amazing.
A lot of guitar players love Yamaha. I have a pretty sweet mid-range Yamaha acoustic electric that I definitely pick up. And they really do have some pretty sweet models in their lineup.... You should have said, you definitely aren't just using the mic at the end there... There's definitely a mix of the mic and the piezo going on
Try the Yamaha trans acoustic. It sounds amazing.
I SOO badly want to save for a Lowden because I absolutely love the voicing on Lowdens. But then I hear these Yamahas and though they don't sound like a Lowden, the value to quality of sound ratio is just off the charts and makes me wonder if I should just forget those ideas of a boutique guitar, get a nice Yamaha and use the money saved on lessons. 😆
I have a Yamaha Pacifica and it’s my most playable of my decent collection.
I need to try one of those
What do y’all think is with all of the lows in Elliot’s guitar recording?
Where he finger picked? Mic placement? Or his jumbo Yamaha?
I think it's def all of the above
Everything Yamaha makes is quality. Guitars, Pianos, motorcycles, boats, jet skis, utvs, dirt bikes, quads and snowmobiles. Am I missing anything?
The Yamaha C7 Grand is a $250k legend and my favorite piano...they make very good stuff!!!
bert jansch was a yamaha player.
And Dylan. And Page.
He played some L Series guitars.
Yamaha customer-made an LL86 for Bert Jansch for his 60th birthday - styling reminiscent of a D45 - beautiful!
I happen to like Yamahas. I've owned several, a FG 150, a FG 180, a FG 160. And I hope to aquire a FSX 5.
When someone ask me what's a good first electric guitar I always recommend the Yamaha Pacifica. It's a good first guitar and comes pretty well set up from the box.
A lot of people are saying that, i need to check one out
I have had two Yamahas
Very good and stayed in tune very well
I have a Yamaha AC5R ARE it's amazing love it.
Billy Shehann plays a Yamaha bass and I have many Yamaha instraments saxes,drum sets ,trumpets, organs, they make excellents instraments and amps and outboard motors they even made motors for Ford cars
Hey I have a Yamaha A1M and I love it
I got a mint fs5 for $900. Very nice guitar so far!