Hello forum members,
I need an acoustic guitar for recording purposes. I have tried different models from different manufacturers, and Larrivee sounds best to me. Martin D-28 also sounds good, but intonation and playability should be much better for the price.
As for Larrivees, I have tried L-03, L-03R and D-05. Soundwise I liked L-03R, but D-05 was easier to play. Unfortunately, I have not found other Larrivee models to test. I'm really attracted to the Larrivee sound.
I record using Shure KSM27/109. Picking and easy playing, no intense strumming. I need clear and distinguishable mids and easy highs. I'm looking for an addressing and articulate sound.
I have played classical and electric guitar for 30 years. I'm new to metal string acoustic guitars, and it may well be that I perceive playability of those inaccurately, so please forgive my ignorance.
Are there models that are easier to play than those mentioned above, considering my price range (1000-3000 euros) and desired tonal characteristics?
Thank You very much,
tiari,
Finland
You will get a lot of agreement here about Larrivees having great balanced tone. I don't do a lot of recording but think you might like either the L or the OM series for that purpose. The OM series are very comfortable to play from a sitting position. I prefer mahogany for clear fundamental tone. Playability has a lot to do with the setup of the guitar and it's no suprise to me that the Martin was not a comfortable instrument for you. They usually have a pretty still action to allow hard flat picking for maximum volume. I wish your dealer had an OM guitar to try for comparison. Good luck in your search. Please keep us posted on your search.
Welcome to the forum. I agree with jimmyd that playability is definitely a result of how a guitar is set up. I have an L-03R and they can certainly be set up to play silky smooth. The volume, tone, and balance of the L series Larrivees sure makes them a great candidate as a recording guitar. The OM's are great guitars also. Very comfortable. I have guitars with electronics but when I choose or need to play into a mic, it's always the L that gets used. It sounds sooooooooooooo good!!! :GRN>
charliep
I'll go with the OM03 also just have it set up for your playing style.
You found the D-05 easier to play, was that because the nut width was thinner than the L models
(1 11/16" vs. 1.75"??). If so, you might condider looking for an older L body in rosewood or mahogany, since those have the smaller nut width.
Hi,
I have a D-05 which is a nice guitar, but a recently got a Morgan CCM, which is similiar to a Larrivee LV-05, I think you would find a Larrivee L body would suit your needs the best, they have an extremely balanced sound and record superbly well. Mahogany would be the better choice of wood IMO, so I would go witha L-03, L-05. good luck.
There's OM-60 on the horizon...haven't tried it yet. Those of you who are familiar with this model, how would you describe it?
regards,
tiari
The quest for my first steel guitar is over. Today I purchased Larrivee OM-05. When I played the guitar, I felt something totally new. This instrument actually let me be what I am - I could hear my own emotions.
At first my quest was to buy a recording tool. I found my alter ego.
This is amazing.
Congrats tiari,
"I found my alter ego." lol, what a great way to put it. I'm sure you'll love and enjoy your "alter ego" for many years to come.
-dan
Quote from: tiari on January 13, 2006, 03:20:34 PM
The quest for my first steel guitar is over. Today I purchased Larrivee OM-05. When I played the guitar, I felt something totally new. This instrument actually let me be what I am - I could hear my own emotions.
At first my quest was to buy a recording tool. I found my alter ego.
This is amazing.
Congrats tiari. I've played a couple of OM-05's in my day. One was an older that was prtty nice and one was brand new, like 4-5 months ago, and it got me down deep in the gut too. Had the same experience with an L-05 as well. I don't own a Larrivee mahogany guitar right now but one day...one day.
Welcome to the forum.
Quote from: dark paniel on January 13, 2006, 03:27:08 PM
Congrats tiari,
"I found my alter ego." lol, what a great way to put it. I'm sure you'll love and enjoy your "alter ego" for many years to come.
-dan
I have a split personality :ph34r:
Denis,
I have a well-loved L-03E that's one of the purest sounding acoustics I've played. The hog 03s are great for when you want that fundamental wood sound. That being said, I was loving the sound of my D-09 at band rehearsal last night!
Mark