Larrivee C-03R vs Forum VI vs SD40R

[nbs2005]

Hi all,

Here's a quick comparison of my 3 Larrivees. It's not perfect as the TE has the freshest strings and the SD40R's are near the end of their life but I still found it useful. All recorded with a Marantz MPM 1000 and a PGA57 (MPM near the 12th fret, 57 near the bridge). I set levels once and did not change them. There's a low pass filter but no EQ. You will also notice some clipping in the Forum VI strumming section; was surprised by that.

https://youtu.be/cEdJLq5vqkA

I think they all sound great but have what I think is a clear favourite developing. I'll share that a bit later. I will repeat this when everyone has fresh strings, maybe this weekend.

Oh and another thing; while the V cutaway looks way better in my view, the F cutaway is a lot more practical for a mostly sitting guitarist. That extra inch or so makes a difference on how it rests on my knee.

Thanks,

Jeff

[StringPicker6]

Great video, Jeff!  I'm really curious what your favorite one is!

[nbs2005]

Currently my favourite is the TE closely followed by the Forum VI. I've actually got the SD40r up for sale on Kijiji. Not in a super hurry to sell and I'm asking a top end price so will see what happens. Would not be a shame if I had to keep it.

[William2]

 
Interesting video. I thought they all sounded good. I'm relatively new to the Larrivee brand. Is the Forum VI instrument a special limited run instrument? I don't see it on the Larrivee page. Aesthetically I have always preferred non cutaway 12 fret to the body instruments. Thanks for the post.

[fingerz]

I preferred the TE overall but then i am biased as i own one and it it's the one i reach for now. But i really did like the clarity of the VI particularly during the strumming part.
BTW I have just started lurking back at this forum after having been AWOL for a good while while Larrivee-less. Fun to be back.

[StringPicker6]

Jeff, I was afraid that you were going to say that you preferred the TE! I can't stop looking at pictures of that model, it must be a dream to own.  I'm currently head over heels with my OM-40R that is still less than a year old, but I hope it forgives my wandering eyes when I stare at C-03TE pics online. 

[nbs2005]

The TE and the Forum VI really seem to complement each other. I'm already thinking about arrangements where I use both and play off their different sounds.

[mattwood]

Every time I pick up my C-03R I'm always surprised at the sound that comes out of this guitar.  Very full, rich tone with as much volume as you want or need.  I'm using some Elixir Light/Medium Nanowebs which seem to be a great fit for this guitar.  It's also very comfortable to play with the 12 fret design.  I can't wait to hear how it sound as it ages.

[fingerz]

Yes I have found my Tommy to sound good with lights or custom lights with lighter bass down to 50 for the 6th. The other thing I have gravitated to are strings with some nickel in the wraps or sometimes GHS Vintage Bronze, as the guitar has such a powerful bass response and reverb. Good problem to have.