McKenna McKenna 7 String
submitted 8/10/2010
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Submitter |
spam |
Where Purchased |
Gregg McKenna Guitars |
Year Purchased |
2010 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
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Sound
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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 |
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De Neve Richard Koa R Body
submitted 10/10/2009
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Submitter |
spam |
Where Purchased |
Richard DeNeve |
Year Purchased |
2009 |
Price Paid |
$1450 ($US) |
Sound
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This instrument has a full, rich and clear sound. This particular R body was built with what Mr. DeNeve calls "Rim and Post" instead of the traditional "soundwell" construction. Each note seems much more clear and defined as opposed to my GT PBS. It is bright sounding but not excessive. I'm a novice and play straight bluegrass at the moment and it is perfect for what I play. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
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Mr. DeNeve set it up perfect for me. I asked him to make the nut at a certain height to accomdate my capo and he did just that. Everything else seems just right. I would not make any changes for now. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
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I had a choice as far as wood was concerned so I chose the Curly Koa. I was told it was similar to maple in sound and I am not disappointed. Mr. DeNeve sends his guitars out to a guy that does a beautiful job of finishing in lacquer. No flaws at all. The Koa is great looking. You also have the option of getting a bound or unbound fretboard & herringbone purfling around the top of the guitar at no extra cost. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
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Everything looks and feels great. Only time will tell. Dick has been building these for many years and has a super track record. It seems very dependable. If reso was my main instrument I would not do a gig without some type of backup. But that isn't because of the reliability of this instrument. It just makes good sense in case something happens. |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
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Dick was easy to work with. I never had to call and talk to him as he always answered my emails in a timely manner. And he remembered every detail I asked of him. The only warranty I got was if I ever had any questions or problems all I need to do is call him. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
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All hardware is high quality import. The turners look exactly like Gotoh Keystone-style turners but they do not have the Gotoh name on the back. I chose to have the coverplate with the lyre pattern. If there is one thing I would change it would be the coverplate. The coverplate on my GT PBS seems to be better made and slightly thicker guage metal. But you are given the choice to upgrade to US hardware. I think it is worth the $60 to do so. |
Components Rating |
9 |
Overall Comments
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A great looking guitar and sound to match. With all the options you have with Dick's guitars I don't think you can get as good of a guitar for the price he charges. It's like getting a custom guitar without the high price. And he's real easy to work with. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
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