ACOUSTIC guitar construction/quality question

[Axe Chemist]

I'm looking at buying a decent acoustic/electric guitar without spending over $400 or so. I've noticed the solid tops start around 300 on MF and go way up from there but a few of them have solid sides and backs also. From the standpoint of sound and clarity will a guitar constructed with solid sides and back sound that much better than a solid top guitar with laminate sides and back? I've spotted 3 Ibanezes that are solid on all sides and top that sell for $349. Compared to a Martin or any other decent solid top that's incredible.

[rjohnstone]

Re: ACOUSTIC guitar construction/quality question

Having solid backs and sides are not as important as having a solid top.
A solid top guitar will resonate better and will also support the string tension from the bridge better. Less chance of the top lifting on you.
That being said, solid sides, back and top are still the best for overall tone and resonance.
If you want to look at a well built guitar at a good price, check out Yamaha. They make several fantastic entry level solid top acoutstics for under $400. The FG410-S (S=solid top) is a great guitar for the money.

[dannyr]

Re: ACOUSTIC guitar construction/quality question

Ibanez and Seagull also make some decent acoustics in that price range.

[quiksilver]

Re: ACOUSTIC guitar construction/quality question

If you don't need electronics, try a Taylor Big Baby. It's ugly as HELL, but it sounds way better than any guitar in its price range IMO. Heel-less construction, and an Ebony fretboard, too!

[jim777]

Re: ACOUSTIC guitar construction/quality question

Absolutely the Big Baby can't be dismissed out of hand; they are excellent guitars. I'd also second the look at Seagull's, as they are also fantastic guitars for the money. I think there is a Big Baby in the classifieds right now, as a matter of fact.

[Axe Chemist]

Re: ACOUSTIC guitar construction/quality question

What makes the Big Baby ugly? I'm looking at a photo of one right now and can't tell...besides the brightness of the wood tone.

[quiksilver]

Re: ACOUSTIC guitar construction/quality question

Well, it is subjective, of course. Here's what I don't like about its looks:

Plain satin finish over very plain, non-figured, laminated wood
Bulbous body shape
No binding
Squirrelly, cheap-looking plastic pickguard
Cheapo looking rosette (looks pressed into the wood)
Phillips neck screw heads visible in fretboard
Slightly pregnant hump in back of guitar
Cheapo, plaino, Lexan headstock overlay
Can't . . . type . . . anymore . . . need bucket [img]/images/graemlins/sick.gif[/img]

[img]/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img] (Remember, I actually LIKE this guitar - beauty is only skin deep!)

[hippietim]

Re: ACOUSTIC guitar construction/quality question

+1 for the big baby