Model recommendations

[tiari]

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

[jimmyd]

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.

[charliep]

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

[unclrob]

I'll go with the OM03 also just have it set up for your playing style.

[JohnM2001]

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.

[dodge]

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.

[tiari]

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

[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.

[Redeemed]

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

[Denis]

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. 

[Randy_R]

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   

[mazareth]

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