help me find an acoustic guitar

[SteveMcB]

I was in the same situation (about $500US to spend) about 8 months ago, and played almost every acoustic guitar from $250US to $750 US in every shop here in Auckland New Zealand. I came to the conclusion that for around $500, you can get a nice guitar or a crap guitar with a pickup, except for the Seagulls, which seemed to offer both, but I didn't like the way they played or the sound - it was good, but not what I was after...

I don't know whether they're sold in the states or not, but I bought a K.Yairi (made by the same factory as Alvarez-Yairi I believe) for roughly $450US, which was far and away the pick of the bunch that I played, including all the ones I played in the 500-750 range. Solid spruce top, sweet sound, gorgeous setup. I found it much better than the Fenders especially. Records nicely too, despite my imited mics and recording experience

Hope this helps,
SteveMcB

 

[duck]

I dont like onboard electronics on acoustics. I use in an in-hole pickup when needed.
I agree with foo in saving your money and buying a prime guitar (taylor,gibson,martin etc.) These are well made and
carry a lifetime warranty. You wouldnt regret it.
You might get lucky and get a deal like reqs. A gibson J-45
for $250 dollars. Thats a deal!

Duckhead

 

[tdukex]

Buck62: "Seagull and Larrivee' are definitely the best acoustic guitars in that price range... no doubt about it."

I'm with Buck and the rest of you guys who recommend either Larrivee' or Seagull. I've owned three Larrivees (I keep upgrading) and one of them was a D-03. They are made from all solid woods and have hand-fitted necks--they never need refitting. I've had my hands on a few Seagulls and was extremely impressed with the quality and price. In my opinion, they're still a step below the low-end Larrivees.