Miguel de Maria -> RE: GUITAR PRICES-HOW HIGH IS TOO HIGH (Nov. 1 2006 15:55:26)
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Romerito, I paid $3500 for my guitar, and I like it a lot. But it could be better, or at least, it could be better for me. I think a lot of this is just what suits you personally. For example, if you play concerts maybe you need a really booming guitar, if you like to play a lot of intricate parts maybe you would like a guitar with a smoother left hand. For example, in the classical world, the Ramirezes are infamous for being huge, sounding great, but being beasts to play. I played a Keith Vizcarra guitar once (as I am sure you have), and it was my favorite ever. It was years ago and it was the first flamenco he ever made--Chuscales played it for awhile. The notes just jumped right out of that thing, man! Dry, flamenco sound, easy to play, loud. But that was awhile ago and my tastes and knowledge have changed sicne then. I think he's charging $7K nowadays. There are some people who claim that the best guitars are over 30 years old. It's like a magic number they say, when a guitar really starts to sound fine. I haven't tried it out, but it's possible at least. If I did get some money, I would probably buy a 30 year old guitar and see what happens. I bought my classical in '91, so it's half way there :) It does have a nice sound. I think that if I could buy a guitar right now, without having the benefit of trying out a ton, I would get one of those Aaron Greens. I play some flamenco, some classical, some South American, so I want a pure tone, clarity, and a fast neck. From what I've heard, he makes a great product (and he is a good guy too). Unfortunately, I think his stuff is up there at 8K or so. It's a bit of a funny situation that the top luthiers make guitars that only collectors and top guitarists can afford. There's a whole bunch of pretty good guitarists that would be well served by finer instruments but can't and probably wohn't be able to afford them. On the other hand, over time we have a bit of an advantage in evaluating what guitar will serve us best, as long as we keep our ears and minds open, because we are spending so much time with the instrument, and perfecting ourselves. I hope this spiel is somewhat interesting or useful to you :)
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