First larrivee D-03 vs d-03R vs d-40

[Ryanju71]

Hi, I'm looking I buy my very first larrivee and narrowed it down to these three different models. I need any input from people who know or have played these guitars. Is the rosewood worth the extra cash? Is the d-40 something to consider over the d-03 thanks in advance

[L07 Shooting Star]

Hi, I'm looking I buy my very first larrivee and narrowed it down to these three different models. I need any input from people who know or have played these guitars. Is the rosewood worth the extra cash? Is the d-40 something to consider over the d-03 thanks in advance

Do you have the chance to play them before you buy them?  That would be the best way to decide.  If not, I can't offer much more advice.  If I was you, and didn't understand the supposed difference between rosewood and mahogany, I would just buy the cheapest of the 3.  I think you will be satisfied with any one of them.

[Ryanju71]

The problem is they don't have any in stock and I would need to put deposit for them to order. I know you can't go wrong with larrivee guitars and that most of the reviews are good especially the d-03, I just don't want to buy one with one type of wood an regret it down the road there's only 100$ difference between rosewood and maghogany. I'm more of a strummer and play more with my fingers rather then using a pick.

[Bas]

Buying a guitar without trying is definitely the hardest way to buy the 'right' one. I see your problem though.

I suggest you to check the sound clips on the forum and this movie to hear the difference between mahogany and rosewood. Those clips and movies can give you a general idea.

Although it doesn't offer a comparison, Premier Guitar's review of the D-40R might be usefull too. Keep in mind that the D-40 isn't a premium version of a 03-series... they are just different.

Good luck!

[Niteshooter]

Would also agree with the others. Because of the narrow focus of your search trying them all out and getting a feel for the sound is likely to be the deciding factor. To my ear the Rosewoods aren't as bright sounding as the Hogs. The D-03r and D-40 are likely to sound close though Larrivee has changed the bracing on the D-40 so this might be a deciding factor. You might also want to get someone else to try each one while you stand in front and listen to how each project, (thinking of this because of the D-40's changes).

In terms of feel, they should all feel about the same but the difference in how they sound is likely where you are going with this.

[carruth]

They are all good . If I was in your position I would go for a D04... the mahogany back and sides DO4. But you will not go wrong with the other  three guitars you are looking at. It may be new strings or possibly the action but that Premier Guitars video review does not do justice to just how good Larrivees sound.

[Bas]

It may be new strings or possibly the action but that Premier Guitars video review does not do justice to just how good Larrivees sound.

I guess there are not many video's that really do— not in the level of being able to hear subtle differences like in real life. Don't mean to say that movie's cannot sound good. You've always got to deal with different recording environments. I've had the chance to play a D-40 (mahogany back and sides, unlike the R in the movie) a couple of weeks back and it's indeed a lovely guitar. Don't you mean that one instead of a D-04?

[JohnM2001]

You may want to consider buying a used one.  The Guitar Center website usually has a good selection, which changes daily, prices are good, with the occasional killer deal, where they apparently don't know the value of some models.  They will ship to your house, or their local store (if you have one nearby), and will take it back no questions asked within 30 days if you are unsatisfied for any reason.    I've bought 2 acoustics (including 1 Larrivee) in the last 6 months, and both have been excellent guitars in great shape.

[carruth]

   I really like all Larrivees, but the two O4s' I have played have been especially great.

[Ryanju71]

I've been looking online for used larrivee's and have found nothing in my area. I live in Ottawa ontario(canada). The local music store has 2 larrivee in stock one being d-03 deluxe and the other being d-03R deluxe at XXXX$ cad and XXXX$ cad. I'll probably end up buying the d-03 with maghogany being that it's cheaper..


     Modified price as per Rule 3 of Forum Rules  JOYCEfromNS

[Bas]

Just compare the 2 and buy the one you like most.

What do they mean with deluxe?

[carruth]

     There is something special about Larrivee mahogany guitars.

[JOYCEfromNS]

What do they mean with deluxe?

10 series style inlay on fretboard I believe. 

[Bas]

That's quite a cool addition to a -03!

[JOYCEfromNS]

That's quite a cool addition to a -03!

Agreed they do look nice and not out of place at all