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McKenna McKenna 7 String
submitted 8/10/2010
|
Submitter |
spam (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Gregg McKenna Guitars |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
The main reason for getting a 7 string was to be able to play in a G6 tuning without sacrificing either the D or G strings at the bottom. This reso was perfect for the music I intended to play on it, Hawaiian and Western swing styles. I know it seems I'm in the wrong forum for these styles, but it's still reso music to me. The McKenna has a rich, even sound. Not as bright compared to my 6 string. But that's what I wanted. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
When I received it, it had a slight vibration when playing a certain string. Because the strings were loosened during shipment the cone/spider moved slightly. Gregg McKenna was great in helping me to re-seat the spider to the soundwell. I wouldn't make any changes to Gregg's setup. |
Setup Rating |
9 |
Appearance
|
It has a great lacquer finish. The finish he put on this guitar is immaculate and is better than any I have seen in this price range. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
|
The hardware is top notch. He uses only the best. It's built like an upper end instrument. Seems like it would be very dependable. |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
Gregg was a pleasure to work with. Very friendly indeed. I believe he will service it as long as he is around. I never had to call him. He answered all my emails promptly. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
Quarterman cones, Grover mini rotomatic machines, ebony cap maple inserts, high gloss lacquer finish and a TKL hard shell case.There are no cheap parts on this reso. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
If you have a need for a really great traditional sounding reso at a fair price Gregg McKenna can make it for you. There are some really great makers out there today and I'm not saying I'm going to stop here. But I'm really glad I have this fine guitar made by a great luthier. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
James D Magnum Body - J095
submitted 7/30/2010
|
Submitter |
Twang (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Phone/Email |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
With the type of wood used i was expecting a higher based sound but i am delightfully surprised by a mid range to slightly lower sound. Assuming that as with all instruments age will do nothing but add to the richness that it already has. When compared to my Dobro, the notes from one end of the fret board to the other seem a bit easier to find and there is less final adjust to get the wavelength that pleases the ear best. |
Sound Rating |
9 |
Setup
|
Boned way up! Everything is as it should be, tight, no vibrations, clean, Harry does a great job setting up, in fact if he does retire, i hope he will consider maybe doing work on the side. Beard cone, Dobro 14 spider bridge, 8 Cherry Sound posts, Gotoh tuners |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
Top: Curly Maple, Back & Sides: Palo Escrito, Neck: African Mahogany, Fret Board: Peruvian Walnut, saddles are Ebony capped maple.
I'm a hard critic in some ways, but a realist in all areas. Fact is you can hand me any guitar (martin,you name it) ever made and i can find something that could have been done better. When building guitars of any kind the up front investment is in your grill, you cant take it apart and start over, you cant throw it away... lumber is at a premium, so is cost. That being said the two things i noticed about this guitar are minor and will never effect the sound or the life expectancy in any way. Nor are they one of those things that is noticed easy. There is a few slight lacquer blemishes, perhaps a flake of dust or something along that line easy to fix if your in the mind set of perfection, i am not unless your referring to sound, and on the inside side of the saddle there is a slight blemish where the ebony cap and the palo escrito meet. If you aren't looking for it, one would pass it without catching it as part of the palo grain, its not until you hold it back and really take a long look that you find it. There is nothing poor about this guitar and absolutely nothing that would stop me from buying a another one from Harry for any reason. Little imperfections give character and life to an instrument and a builders style... Harry James is both a artist and a character, and that's just what you want in a musical instrument investment. |
Appearance Rating |
9 |
Reliability
|
I can see this Reso in the hands of my grandsons grandson. There is nothing i can say other than fantastic mechanical composition. Id take it to the center of Siberia, or the out-est of the Outback and never give it a second thought... although if your a professional, you will of course always have a back-up, you cant tempt fate! |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
Harry and the Missus,.
If everyone in the world was as efficient, kind and reliable, the TV court shows would fade into history. You couldn't ask for a smoother transaction and support team. Sent funds express on Friday, received Guitar on Thursday following. Trust is NOT an issue here. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
Very little to say here... but i wouldn't change a thing, he knows what he is doing... I'm sure there are some who have preference on say machine heads, well then order them when ya order your guitar, don't ask Harry to read your mind. I'm sure Harry will accommodate any personal preference you have within reason or if he wont, you can bet your bottom dollar that he has a reason and he will be more than happy to explain to you as to why he wont. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
The experience and pleasure is all mine. I got more than I paid for, and may well have started a lasting friendship that i hold and will continue to hold very near. People like Harry and his wife are hard to come by these days and i cant say enough about the fact that if you want a really nice Reso Guitar, you can find one with your name on it fom Harry. Thanks Harry and Margaret !
This guitar is J093 not J095 as the review states in the heading... |
Overall Rating |
10 |
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Appalachian Resonator Large Body Birch
submitted 7/21/2010
|
Submitter |
Alan Rausch (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Tom Warner |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
Deep modern sounding like a post and baffle should be. Even tone up the neck, with good volume. Sounds great played soft to get that smooth tone. Can be played bright and loud, it responds well to right hand movement. |
Sound Rating |
not rated |
Setup
|
I ordered with Scheerhorn cone and Schoonover bridge/spider set up. Ebonex/maple inserts. Tom contacted Kent Schoonover and they measured it up. It came with no adjustments needed. I usually like ej42 strings, but on this one the Scheerhorn cryogenics sound best. |
Setup Rating |
not rated |
Appearance
|
I custom ordered the finish, olive green opaque with black sunburst over it. It looks almost black in dark room, but outside it looks green. Birch is a great overall tonewood. All the other parts came from Beard, so high quality and finish. |
Appearance Rating |
not rated |
Reliability
|
I have never used a back up. I still have my other reso, but might sell it. I don't need more than this one. I expect it will last as long as any other out there. I have played it outdoor summer gigs without any problems. |
Reliability Rating |
not rated |
Customer Service
|
Tom did everything I wanted at a great price, if there was ever a problem he would make it right. |
Customer Service |
not rated |
Components
|
Visual: Color and high quality hardware.
Sound: Large open body with Scheerhorn cone and Schoonover spider/inserts. |
Components Rating |
not rated |
Overall Comments
|
Why spend more than you have to get a quality custom American made reso. Call or email Tom and let him build a great instrument. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
Appalachian Resonator Large sitka spruce/Indian rosewood
submitted 7/17/2010
|
Submitter |
ryusachi (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
From Tom |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
Rich and Full Biggest sound! |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
By myself, I set it up in my preference. |
Setup Rating |
8 |
Appearance
|
Splendid wood is used.
I was worried about only one point, but it was not a so big problem. If the detailed fixtures become perfect, Dobro which he makes will become best of the best! |
Appearance Rating |
9 |
Reliability
|
|
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
He thinks about a problem seriously and copes. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
With my favorite part, I had him make it. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
The sound is splendid first of all. In various Dobro which I played until now, it is the best sound.
It is the reasonable price that it can hardly compare with the other makers. I play it my main Dobro now.
I think that I want one another him to make it in the near future.
I played,Dobro,MGK,Roger Cain,R.Q Jones,Liberty,Rayco,Clinesmith,Meredith........... |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
Goldtone PBR
submitted 7/12/2010
|
Submitter |
charlies3 (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Melodee Music |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
Great sound! Very loud and full. Even with the light dead strings in the store I could tell this was a good one. The nice folks at Melodee put on some medium EXP17s and Bam! A lot more sound. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
After changing the strings, the store adjusted the setup for me. Great service. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
Beautiful wood and very tasteful even in the basic model. I was trying to decide between this and the deluxe appoinments and I found that I liked the simple fretboard better. As with many imports, too much glossy finish, especially on the neck. I would have preferred a satin neck.
A few places on the fretboard where the stain was uneven but no big deal. |
Appearance Rating |
8 |
Reliability
|
Seems very solid and well built. I'll give a 9 only because it's an import. |
Reliability Rating |
9 |
Customer Service
|
Nothing yet |
Customer Service |
not rated |
Components
|
IMHO it's all about the cone. The Beard cone makes all the difference. I also like the chunky neck. Quite different from my electric archtop. The cover plate was not flawless but still looked good. |
Components Rating |
9 |
Overall Comments
|
No doubt in my mind that this guitar is a best bang for the buck in low cost resos. Highly recommended. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
Liberty "Copper Head" Copper Head
submitted 6/15/2010
|
Submitter |
twodogs1952 (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
eBay |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
375.00 ($US) |
Sound
|
Delta Blues, Slide...The guitar is rich and has good volume. I like this guitar. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
The guitar was set up from the factory with a relatively low action, with the 1st & 2nd string set a bit higher the the rest.
I am satisfied with this setup and have done nothing to alter it. I would say that it would be easy to change the setup if needed. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
Mahogany round neck ,Mahogany body,Bound Rosewood fretboard,
Beautiful Copper top and truss rod cover ,Maple spider bridge |
Appearance Rating |
9 |
Reliability
|
Yes the hardware is good. The finish is made to last & it is dependable. |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
No I have'nt dealt with Bill Blue of "Liberty Guitars' ,but before I bought the guitar I did my homework & read other players reveiws that had personaly called him. It was all good! |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
The copper overlay top on the body and the matt finish. It is not a goddy looking instrument. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
I recommend this guitar. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
Red Line Reso The Peabody # 39
submitted 5/24/2010
|
Submitter |
bris48 (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
from the Factory |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
$$$$.$$ ($US) |
Sound
|
Very Rich , , all the way up and down the neck .Up high it is clear as a bell , it will get your attention, On the lower end it is like the thunder claps before a summer rain storm, It will get as soft and pretty as you want and as loud and forceful as you need |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
The setup was done very very well. Steve even did little experiments (can't tell here) to enhance the characteristics of this Maple Cannon |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
BEST EYE CANDY I have ever seen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Highly figured Maple
Rosewood finger board and peghead
Curly maple flush fret markers
Laminated neck Maple Walnut and ebony
Natural curly Maple binding with W/B backing
Fit, Finish are Exceptional |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
|
hardware all TOP Quality
I forsee no problems at all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
Steve and his RL Crew are probably the best to work with I have ever seen.... They even go the EXTRA miles to help and assist........................
Don't worry about a warranty, Steve stands behind his work! ! ! ! ! ! |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
Grover 18:1 tuners,
Quarterman cone, RLR own Spyder
Sunken maple ebony topped bridge inserts
Lyre coverplate
All parts top quality |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
I believe Steve and the folks at RL are making a reso to contend with....... These new Peabody Resos , I believe are right up there with Clinessmith, Merrideth, Scheerhorn, and the other top end Resos |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
Recording King RM-991-S
submitted 5/19/2010
|
Submitter |
Bunyan Bob (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Log Jam Music |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
It's beautiful. Fantastic sustain, clear notes, and very reactive. Very loud for a reso and has that cool retro sound. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
I just had to tune it up and go! |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
Stunning, absolutely stunning. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
|
|
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
Being a dealer, how much support we get from the manufacturer means alot to our business. The guys at the Music Link have been, and continue to be top notch. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
|
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
|
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
Morgan Monroe MSQ-100-SB
submitted 5/12/2010
|
Submitter |
iluvresos (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Banjo.com |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
349.95 ($US) |
Sound
|
This resonator suits my style very well, I play bluegrass, blue's, and rock on it, and it plays all very nicely. I don't use any effects. It has a very rich, bright sound to it. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
It was set up excellently, I love doing business with banjo.com, they take great care of everything they send. All I had to do was tune it a little bit and it was good to go. I think i will change to some better suited strings for it, but the one's that came with it will do for now. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
Ah man it is beautiful, I love the tobacco sunburst, I started to buy the black voodoo resonator, but decided I liked the tobacco better. The whole guitar looks awesome. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
|
The hardware is excellent, I see no major foreseeable problems with any of the hardware or finish. I believe this guitar will be very dependable, If I where a professional musician I would rely on it as my main instrument. |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
I just got this guitar 05/10/10, so I have not had to deal with the company yet. It comes with a lifetime warranty, which is pretty awesome. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
I think the resonator and cone's make this guitar, the way they stand out on the instrument is very cool, looks great. none of the parts seem weak or need upgraded as far as I can see. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
I love this resonator, I am very happy with it and glad I bought this particular brand, as I also have a Morgan Monroe banjo that is excellent as well. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
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Lapsteel Karrera
submitted 4/19/2010
|
Submitter |
ukuleleph (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
K-Mate online (Australia) |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
85 (Australian dollars)
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
I play the lapsteel like a reso. That suits this guitar well. I also like to bend the 2nd string to get a pedal steel effect; very easy on this guitar. I just use a cheap & nasty amp (Casino 15B). There is a very small buzz coming out of the amp, but you have to be trying to listen to hear it. Its not loud enough to worry about unless you were doing professional recordings. The guitar has a single volume & tone knob, but the sound still seems to be "tender" & rich. |
Sound Rating |
8 |
Setup
|
Purchased this sight unseen from an Australian web site. It said that the retail price was $349 (Australian; about $330 USD). Also, the Karrera website said the same model was $295 USD. So to get it for $85 Aust. was an absolute bargain !. The action is nice.
|
Setup Rating |
8 |
Appearance
|
Its very black !. The only dislike is there are no fret markers. Very frustrating. I had to put stickers on the fretboard, but what do you expect for this price ?. Other than that, it looks quite slick. |
Appearance Rating |
7 |
Reliability
|
Seems like it will last. |
Reliability Rating |
7 |
Customer Service
|
This was shipped the same day, and received 2 days later. Ya can't argue with that !. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
Seems all OK. My only doubt is that the nut is wooden; not steel. But for this price, I still think it is outstanding value for money. |
Components Rating |
7 |
Overall Comments
|
A great buy. Feels great, sounds great. Looks great despite no markers on the fret board. Recommend especially for reso players who want to tinker with this great instrument (like I did. Now I am hooked, and an absolute fan). The ridiculously low price attracted me. I am very glad about that. Good value for money. |
Overall Rating |
8 |
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Lapsteel Guyatone
submitted 4/19/2010
|
Submitter |
ukuleleph (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Gift |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember (bought USED)
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
This is a 1968 Guyatone. Its a Japanese "sausage factory" make, however, it is an outstnading instrument. It suits country/hillbilly or Hawaiin styles. I play it like a reso and it sounds fine. The sound is rich & full. |
Sound Rating |
9 |
Setup
|
This was my grandfather's guitar. He recorded with it in the 70's. The action is great. An interesting feature is the distance between the strings. They are a bit wider than my other lapsteel (Karrera), and this makes for easier playing. The strings have never gone out of tune. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
Its easy on the eyes, however, its perhaps a little heavier than todays lapsteels. |
Appearance Rating |
8 |
Reliability
|
Very dependable. Sounds perfect given its age. |
Reliability Rating |
9 |
Customer Service
|
Neutral rating given that this was a gift. |
Customer Service |
5 |
Components
|
This is a well made lapsteel. |
Components Rating |
9 |
Overall Comments
|
This 1968 Guyatone lapseel has stood the test of time. Its a shame they are out of production. It goes to show that production line instruments can still be high quality. It is a copy of the old Fender Stringmaster; and a good copy at that !. A great sound and nice to play. |
Overall Rating |
9 |
|
Regal RD-40
submitted 4/6/2010
|
Submitter |
KATMAN (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Ben Jacks Music |
Year Purchased |
2007 |
Price Paid |
350 ($US) |
Sound
|
This guitar sounds great.It came with light gauge bronze,but I prefer mediums on it.I play mostly blues and it handles great.Full loud tone. |
Sound Rating |
7 |
Setup
|
The setup was a little high when I got it.Over the years it has gotten better.I haven't done anything to it.It was playable when I bought it. |
Setup Rating |
6 |
Appearance
|
The finish and looks really got me. I love the nostalgic look to it.It didn't have any flaws at all.Still looks sharp after three years. |
Appearance Rating |
8 |
Reliability
|
The hardware looks to me like it will last.I'm not hard on my instruments,so it shoild last me forver. |
Reliability Rating |
8 |
Customer Service
|
|
Customer Service |
not rated |
Components
|
The guitar I bought had very good tuners,cones,etc.Most players will upgrade the cones,but I don't feel it should be neccasary |
Components Rating |
8 |
Overall Comments
|
I really love this guitar! I would recomend it to anybody who is starting out. |
Overall Rating |
8 |
|
Regal RD40 S
submitted 4/2/2010
|
Submitter |
popsey (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
R. Q. Jones |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
400.00
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
I could hardly believe how good it sounded and looked. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
R. Q. Jones knows how to set up a reso guitar. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
Wonderful for the money. Looks better than my Goldtone PBSD. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
|
|
Reliability Rating |
9 |
Customer Service
|
Haven't had to call anyone yet. Don't think I will. |
Customer Service |
9 |
Components
|
Great for the money I spent. |
Components Rating |
9 |
Overall Comments
|
Would highly reccomend this guitar to anyone wanting the most guitar all around for the entree level player. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
James D Magnum Body - J095
submitted 3/17/2010
|
Submitter |
SlimPickins (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Directly from Harry James |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
This guitar is full of tone and volume. It has a powerful bass range, with a warm mid-range, and crystal clear highs. The tone reminds me of a rosewood guitar, but with the "bite" of maple. Very modern, contemporary tone. You can use this guitar for any style and it will hold its own. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
Everything was setup well right from Harry. No adjustments needed so far, though I might change the bridge inserts down the line. |
Setup Rating |
9 |
Appearance
|
The tonewoods used for this guitar were gorgeous. The difference in wood and finish colors used made for an outstanding looking guitar. It is not as cleanly built as some of the other builders out there today might do it, but not too bad. The only complaints are some flaws in the finish in some spots - hence the lower rating. |
Appearance Rating |
7 |
Reliability
|
This guitar seems to be a real tank. Though there are some cosmetic finish flaws, I don't think it's going to wear through. I would take this to a gig without a backup with no problem. |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
A better man than Harry James you will not find. He was extremely friendly and more than helpful with any questions and comments I had throughout the building process. Harry's guitars come with a lifetime warranty to the original owner and he stands by it. I would definitely deal with Harry again in the future if the opportunity presents itself. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
Beard chrome plated hardware was used, so no worries about that failing anytime soon. The Gotoh tuners that were used are new to me, but so far they seem really nice and sturdy. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
I don't think you can beat the guitars from Harry James in terms of value, quality, and workmanship. Harry is a gem to deal with and I couldn't be more pleased with how my guitar turned out. I highly recommend Harry and his instruments to anyone. |
Overall Rating |
9 |
|
Mastereso Large Body / Curly Mahogany
submitted 3/10/2010
|
Submitter |
gladgrover (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Resohangout Drawing |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
|
Sound
|
This guitar has a true clean sound. The upper two strings sing like a bell, the middle two are crisp and loud, and the bass roars. I have never played a reso with such sustain as this guitar has. It can hold it's own in a jam session. It is picked up well over a microphone also. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
Very easy to play. Some guitars take some getting used to, but Phil did a great job setting this one up. I would not change a thing. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
A beautiful piece of work! The curly mahogany has a high deep gloss finish which enhances the grain of the wood. The "snowflake" fret markers and the maple frets add to the appearance of the fretboard. The tuners and other metal parts shine. The poinsettia cover plate adds a lot to the overall look. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
|
Only quality materials were used in making this guitar. It is a very well built heavy guitar. The Schaller strap lock adds to the reliability. |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
Phil is a great guy to work with during the building process. He kept me informed throughout and asked my opinion on several aspects during construction. He made sure I was getting exactly what I wanted. Any question I had, he answered with no problem. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
It is equipped with a Quarterman cone, ebony capped maple inserts, and Grover tuners. It does not need a baffle system, posts only. Everything is top quality. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
I could not have designed a better reso for my style of playing. It has met and exceeded my expectations. I would recommend Mastereso Guitars to any player either new or seasoned. Great job Phil! |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
Mastereso Large body rosewood/spruce
submitted 2/21/2010
|
Submitter |
wjr1244 (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
custom from Mastereso |
Year Purchased |
2008 |
Price Paid |
$2000 ($US) |
Sound
|
I play in church and around the house. The type of music is bluegrass to country. This guitar is loud and very bassy. I have recorded in a studio with it and it has a nice warm presence with clear mids and highs. I chose East indian rosewood and sitka because I wanted to play unplugged and be heard as back up to a singer. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
It has the same set up it came with. Although I think I would like to try an osage bridge. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
The appearance was very good. I had a semi satin finish on it with maple binding. There are no inlays beside the fret markers. All the metal hardware came shining like a new dime. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
|
It has excellent hard ware. Beard cone and maple ebony capped bridge insert. There was a ball end snap on end pin that I thought was a great design to keep your strap locked on. |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
Phil is a pleasure to work with. He assured me that he stands behind his product and has never turned my questions away. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
I like the baffle system that he placed in my guitar. It seems to project the sound out the screenless sound holes nicely. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
I am well pleased with my reso. I would have no problem trusting Phil with a future build and I might just do that. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
Rogue Classic Spider
submitted 2/13/2010
|
Submitter |
TNslider (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Musicians Friend |
Year Purchased |
2009 |
Price Paid |
199 ($US) |
Sound
|
Sounds great for the price. Really couldnt believe it. I play mainly bluegrass and I am just starting the dobro, I picked this up to see if I could do something with it. Something was rattling inside or on the cover, couldnt tell |
Sound Rating |
6 |
Setup
|
Set up was basically non-existent, but adequete for learning. Something was rattling under the tailpiece. Probably could use some felt or something underneath it. Cone was dented. |
Setup Rating |
5 |
Appearance
|
I was very pleased with the look of this guitar, finish was great. The burst is a little cheasy, but still looks good. The mahogany veneer is beautifull. Tuners look really cheap, but seem to stay in tune |
Appearance Rating |
7 |
Reliability
|
For the price, seems ok, works so far |
Reliability Rating |
8 |
Customer Service
|
not sure, Musicians Friend is pretty good about service from my experience |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
the cone is pretty crappy and is not seated properly. The spider needs to be leveled, but I already broke on trying to get it level. - Setup is super crucial with resonators- I now know this. Nut was a little short and my bar would sometime hit the frets> it was also not the standard width, it was like 1/4 inch so a stock replacement reso nut would not have worked - it would be too thin. |
Components Rating |
6 |
Overall Comments
|
I bought this guitar and played it for about a month until I decided that upgrading would not be worth it. It feels cheap and I was always thinking about it's shortcomings. The nut is not the standard height, rim that cone sits on was crooked, A proper setup was going to cost me like $150 bucks - i decided to return it and I am now waiting on a Redline Rambler - Made in USA. I also tried a Gold Tone PBSM, but it did not have the beard setup, I wasnt too impressed with the sound for 975 bucks. Bottom line - for 200 bucks, it is an amazing deal and for a couple hundred more, you could have a nice guitar with a proper setup. |
Overall Rating |
8 |
|
Crafters of Tn. Virginian/Tenneesean
submitted 1/21/2010
|
Submitter |
bmizell (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Reso hangout adds and ebay |
Year Purchased |
2007/2009 |
Price Paid |
1000.00 ($US) (bought USED) |
Sound
|
The mohogany has the warmest sound and the Maple is much brighter. They both have great tone and sound and are loud enough in a jam. The Maple is the loudest. |
Sound Rating |
9 |
Setup
|
The mohaogany was setup when purchased, probably needs a new setup but it stillo sounds great. The Maple was setup by Bobby Wright and is a cannon in a jam.
|
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
All TTT and TTV's are easy on the eyes from the factory and the craftsmanship is is very good from Crafters. |
Appearance Rating |
9 |
Reliability
|
great |
Reliability Rating |
9 |
Customer Service
|
Mark Crafter has always been helpful |
Customer Service |
8 |
Components
|
Lyre coverplates come standard which are nice |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
|
Overall for the money they are the best buy out there. They have the old sound which some people prefer and some don't. They do have a lower resale when used, which makes them a good bargain. |
Overall Rating |
9 |
|
Goldtone PBS Laminated Mahogany Standard
submitted 1/15/2010
|
Submitter |
YodelingDobros (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Eldery |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
599 ($US) |
Sound
|
I dont know if its the best for bluegrass,but it is very bright and full sounding.
I am very pleased with the sound and tonal quality.
|
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
Setup by Beard guitars! From what i've read a beard setup is the only way to go.
now that i have one i agree!
no buzz or other setup problems. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
|
Its the most beautiful guitar i own.
Mahogany laminated,glossy finish.Finish work is with no imperfections!
reso was spotless!! Elderly handles the instruments well. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
|
Up to now holding up good, no reason to believe other wise. Seems strong built,heavy and well constructed.Im not into gigging just playing in the rocking chair on the front porch kinda guy. but im sure it could handle gigging.
|
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
|
ordered it via internet on sunday shipped tuesday from michigan, arrived to me friday.
didnt have to speak to them,i order it online and they shipped it fast. just the way i like it.
Eldery seems to be a stand up company +1 btw they have there pbs gold tone SETUP BY BEARD GUITARS!!!
|
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
|
From my past experience the tuners might need to be upgraded. but they seem fine now.
every thing else seems fine as of now. |
Components Rating |
9 |
Overall Comments
|
good |
Overall Rating |
10 |
|
Rogue Classic Spider Resonator
submitted 1/12/2010
|
Submitter |
scottbow (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Musicians Friend |
Year Purchased |
2005 |
Price Paid |
139 ($US) |
Sound
|
Bear in mind, this is the least expensive reso available...
I play gospel bluegrass.
The Rogue is louder than many more expensive instruments. Tone is very good, did I say loud?!
I use a condenser mike (Nady CM-90) over the resonator, with the instrument on a Morell "dobro" stand, as I also play banjo.
Expressive - responds well to pick and bar. Good thing, since I cannot "work the mike" with this setup. |
Sound Rating |
9 |
Setup
|
So-so and very cheap hardware - see "Reliability"
Added John Pearse strings.
Replaced tailpiece and nut - both broken.
Used hot-melt glue, sparingly (6-8 BB sized drops) between resonator and cover to reduce buzz.
Still has slight buzz, a pleasant sound to me! |
Setup Rating |
2 |
Appearance
|
Black laminate body, plastic off white ivory binding, chrome hardware -reso cover is tarnished from play.
Looks good under lights, if you don't look too close! |
Appearance Rating |
8 |
Reliability
|
Poor hardware - plan to replace tailpiece, nut, and possibly bridge saddle. Tuning keys (slotted headstock) are cheap but holding up so far.
Otherwise is structurally sound, I have played 4+ years w/ medium gauge strings.
Cone sounds good as any, spider and cover haven't broken yet. |
Reliability Rating |
5 |
Customer Service
|
Sent the first one back with a broken tailpiece; MF replaced the instrument no questions asked.
When the second tailpiece broke, I decided it was more time and cost effective to fix it myself. Had fun doing it! |
Customer Service |
9 |
Components
|
Spider bridge, wood saddle, aluminum cone, slotted headstock, open brass geared tuning keys, plated tailpiece, plastic nut, sound hole screens.
Yes, weak and cheap is the order of the day, see above.
Overall rating would be worst, except for the cone/spider sounding so good! |
Components Rating |
5 |
Overall Comments
|
If you are reasonably competent doing your own repairs and setup, the Rogue is a great value, even at the current $199.99 price.
I learned a great deal by DIY Rogue repairs.
The end result is better than most middle-of-the-road instruments.
If you pay someone else to change your strings, it's not the instrument for you.
|
Overall Rating |
8 |
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