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Posts: 13997
Location: Upper Left USA | Here's a semi original question. What make's you buy a certian guitar?
(I wish I had copied my original answer before this thread evaporated but I understand why it did.)
About three years ago I came out of the 20 year hiatus with first marriage, babies, Apprenticeship, Orthodontists, Mortgage, etc.
I decided I needed to buy a new guitar to play in a church band. I had a Guild D50 but I needed something more rugged and amplified. I remembered my Balladeer from the 80's and how Ovation was rugged, sounded good, affordable and innovative. The Music Stores around here sucked so I went to the internet. I found a 2003 Celebrity Deluxe collector and ordered it.
Shortly after that I found this gathering of GAS Growing Guitar Grabbers and someone told me to make some Margaritas and learn some history.
So naturally I sent the Celeb back and gave my Visa Card numbers to a stranger in New Jersey. I ordered an "LX" sight unseen because they hadn't hit the stores yet and I knew that Ovation had the innovation and design I liked.
Why buy an Ovation?
I don't want to play what everybody else is playing. I want to be a little different and a little better.
I like the people.
I like a neck that is so damn playable!
I like the design, soundness, durability and focus from Ovation.
I appreciate the balance that comes from American Craftsman and Industrial Engineers. Left alone neither group would survive. there is a balance here.
I look forward to my next custom order because you guy's are fantastic! |
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May 2006
Posts: 97
Location: Chicago | The reason why I bought an Ovation was for the sound in a small-group setting and the ability to plug in with great sound for a large-group setting. Both are important aspects of ministry and both are satisfied extremely well by my 1778LX. |
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April 2004
Posts: 13303
Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | Bought my first Balladeer in the mid 70's because the rock band I was in needed the occassional acoustic guitar song and Ovation was the only way to go. I sold it to my buddy in Phoenix a couple years ago and it still looked and sounded as good as the day I bought it.
Why did I sell it....because the GAS of the newer models and older models I missed out on were all calling my name....and I also discovered this site full of crazy Ovation Fans that helped to educate me.
Original question....what makes me buy a guitar.
Somehow or another, they find out my name and start calling out to me. When I respond, it is usually because of the inital looks, then the feel, then the sound.....and sometimes the sirens song just proves to be to much and I take her home. |
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March 2005
Posts: 12761
Location: Boise, Idaho | I bought my first Ovation because my favorite artists played them, it was the easiest guitar to play that I had found and it was "high tech" at the time (1977). I also liked the sound from low to high. I bought most of the rest because the people on this board made me lose my mind. |
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February 2004
Posts: 1634
Location: Warren,Pa. | I bought my Std.Elite LX NEB 'cause I wanted a versitile 6 string and I fell in love with the finish when I saw it. $550, slightly used on ebay.
I got the Pacemaker 'cause I love 12 strings and I thought $300 on ebay was a good deal. I still don't know if it was...it's been in the shop for 5 months now.
'97 Collectors'...my wife was looking for a 50th b'day present for me. She also had in mind a GC Baladeer with cedar top. I'm glad I got what I got.
John <>{ |
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August 2003
Posts: 4619
Location: SoCal | Why? Primarily, it's all John and Kim's fault. Secondary, lump together great guitars and discussions on OFC.
I got back into guitars in 2003 after 20yrs of more than occassional playing. As I had a dark sunburst 1158 CL slothead 12-str from 1980-1990, I wanted a new six and twelve string Custom Legend in dark sunburst - as it didn't appear to be offered, I wrote Customer Service 3 or 4 times. Granted, my last email was not a request but a complaint/recommendation that they offer the dark sunburst.
No response, so forced to buy a 1619 CL on eBay...then another, then participated in the OFC, then Al, then on and on...especially as I found how superior Customer Service was (and is).
Suddenly, others on the OFC were offering to help me spend my few dollars. I was out of control...buying this as a "keeper", buying that as a adoptee, trying a CA, then a FD-14, then a Storm Series...on and on and on...then buy, sell, place and trade. Ovation and Adamas has so many wonderful flavors (and great new or reissue products).
Might have stopped if only a 6 and 12-string in dark sunburst had been available...glad I didn't :D
As an aside, the OFC is instrumental in many of my after-market and new purchases. Prior to joining, I had no idea what guitars had or were being made, reviews of individuals with playing experience, etc. And, the rare postings of Ovation staff have been extremely valuable. As an example, I had no idea why I needed a textured top Adamas...now have nine and one Millennium CVT :D |
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Posts: 60
Location: Berkeley, CA | I like an innovative/unique look, good plugged-in sound, durability, and acoustic tone. |
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April 2006
Posts: 103
Location: Townsville, Australia | First I became interested because of the technology side of things and how much sense it made that an engineer working on vibrations could know about others forms of vibration and interaction with air.
Then I looked at them on the web site and dreamt. One day walked into local music store, where I'd bought a fender acoustic (DG22CE) which I was happy with. Spotted Ovations which had never stood out before. In particular a 1778T RFT. Strummed and picked a few but was overwhelmed my the mellifluous sound this thing produced.
To my ear it was the best Ovation, legends, 05 collector etc; and it was impossible to continue with the Fender when this delicous looking and sounding instrument was available at a not ridiculous price.
End of story; their price was a bit high so went webbing and found one in USA that was cheaper, even paying obscene freight and customs etc. Sold the fender to help pay for it.
It still blows me out to listen to it, and the looks of this paint job and the overall design balance are remarkable; came with LX features so was doubly blessed.
Only gripe is learning how to stop it sliding, but this actually just turns out to be sitting in a proper position.
And amplified it is great fun.
I am a learner and having a quality instrument has made a lot of difference as the sounds are so rewarding. The Fender Acoustic used to jangle in the low range compared to the 1778T.
Now I am looking at getting an electric and have bought a Gretsch G61220SSU. I will out blast my son for a little bit.
I guess I like quality and something that isn't the same as everyone else; but where form and function blend. Anticipate getting a 12 string at some time in the next 12 months. |
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September 2005
Posts: 3619
Location: GATLINBURG TENNESSEE :) | I've always been a research guy, when it comes to buying anything, I want to make sure I'm getting the most bang for my hard-earned bucks.
So ... when I saw my first Ovation (1537)I read the brochure (I still have that brochure) and discovered all the research and work that went into the instruments. And the thought that went into the bracing designs and the electronics really impressed me. In my mind this was more than just a guitar, this was a work of engineering art. |
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August 2004
Posts: 604
Location: Tampa, FL | What makes me buy a guitar.
First and foremost, complete lack of self discipline.
Then you add comments from Tuppy, Cliff, Schroed, Tony C. et. al. concerning their opinions of which O/A is 'The Best'
Since you will never get one answer, how can you possibly have one guitar.
And so I buy another, a slink off to wallow in my shame.
The Fud is on the truck , delivery is scheduled for today. Most likely in the next fifteen minutes. I gotta go |
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January 2004
Posts: 338
Location: SE Michigan | What makes me buy a guitar? The voices, always the voices.....you guys dont hear them?
That and browsing these guitar forums. Before I started reading the guitar forums I had one single guitar for nearly twenty years. Since I started reading the web forums I have gone through about ten guitars. |
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March 2002
Posts: 15682
Location: SoCal | Brian touches on an interesting point. Before the OFC, I had 4 Ovations... my 1537, an old Legend, a 1763 Classical, and Big Blue. Since the OFC, a number of Ovatons have passed thru my hands, and now there is GAS for a guitar that is not only expensive, but may or may not be ever built, the OFC'er.
Is the OFC good or bad? |
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Posts: 13997
Location: Upper Left USA | "Is the OFC good or bad?"
Yes! |
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January 2005
Posts: 4903
Location: Phoenix AZ | The question seems to have morphed into "why do you buy ovation guitars" or "what attracted you to ovation in the first place". I think most of that has been re-hashed already. One slight twist on "why I buy ovation" is that it's SO DAMN EASY. You just pick up the phone to Al and BINGO just like that it's done! No shopping around, no BS, just quick and easy.
As for as the more generic question "what makes you buy a guitar", well I'm certainly not a professional musician and would barely qualify as a hobbiest. I don't need or deserve anywhere near the quality or quantity of guitars that I am blessed to own. But as long as I'm financially able to do it I approach more like trying to assemble a collection of instruments that 1) is unique, meaning not everything is "off the shelf" and stuff you might not see everywhere, 2) is diverse, covers all bases 6-string, 12-string, wide neck, narrow, etc., 3) sounds as good as it looks, I used to have some "lookers", they are gone, it's now all about unplugged sound (hence the Martins).
Maybe none of this makes sense to anyone but me. Anyway, I have been pretty good over the past year of only buying "replacements". ie if I find a guitar A that is same style as B that I already own but I like it better, I buy A and sell B. No duplicates. My collection in terms of numbers has strunk significantly over the past 2 years. At one point (including ukes and basses) I had 51 instruments in the house. That was rediculous. I now have 16 guitars which still sounds obserd and I want to sell 3-4 of them, but they are my personal "best picks", so to speak. |
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March 2006
Posts: 55
Location: Malvern, Pa. | For me I fell for Ovation in the 70's because of their look, sound, and innovation ... and because it was not what my parents, and uncles played.
Then it depended on the type of music I was learning... started out strumming (Balladeer) tried fingerpicking (james taylor/croce) had to have a folklore, then need a classical/nylon ..etc. etc. |
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September 2004
Posts: 777
Location: East Wenatchee, WA | Interesting question Woody.
I only had two other guitars (other than bass) before I bought my Ovation. I had a $35 bleeding fingers Monkey Wards something or other, that about made me quit playing, then a fairly decent Korean Fender. I needed something to plug in, as you did, for Church. Several folks I played in groups with (I was always bass, they wouldn't let me do a 6 string) had Ovations, but when I went looking it wasn't necessarily for an Ovation but found one in the Nickel Ads for $400, so I went and took a look. The thing had these weird epulets and little holes (all other O's I had seen were center holds), but it had a dream of a neck and sounded and looked incredible and was in nearly mint condition, so I paid the man. Nine years later, while thinking of trading up, I took this guitar to a Guitar Center, and sat in the "expensive" room with the Taylors and Martins I lusted after. My wife was with me (who asked why I bought a defective guitar when I first brought home the O). After playing everything up to $5,000 instruments, they all left me feeling pretty underimpressed. That "sound" I thought I would find (you know, that you hear on recordings) was NOT eminating from these expensive instruments, and they were weaker and harder to play than my "O".
About then I stumbled on this site, and plugged in "1537" to the search engine. The rest is history. I just bought my second "O" (well an "A" actually) in January, and there is probably no going back to a box guitar. I am anxious to try a couple of the other Adamas, and will likely move up to another A from the W597. For now, I will try and hang on to the 1537. |
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December 2003
Posts: 13997
Location: Upper Left USA | Adamas #47RI (ordered)
Adamas U681T-5
Adamas 1597-RG
Elite 1778LX-5
Longneck DS768-4
Viper Nylon EA63-5
Balladeer 1111-6
Folklore 1114-TB
Classical CC53-4
This list screams diversification! |
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July 2002
Posts: 1900
| I play it, I like it, I buy it. That's why buying an acoustic instrument 'sight unseen' is a always gamble, even when placing a custom order from the factory, which I plan on doing as finances allow. Confidence in their reputation is my motivation. |
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Posts: 9
Location: Indianapolis , Indiana | Ovations have the feel of an electric with a nice skinny neck. That's what drew me to them in the first place. I've had better sounding (louder) acoustics but nothing plays as good. |
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January 2006
Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains | Bought my first acoustic only Ovation in 1972 or 1973 as a replacement for an old Silvertone acoustic that got mangled in the desert under a dirt bike. The purchase was purely based on a recommendation from the local music store salesman. I also had a Gibson ES-125 3/4T. The Ovation was stolen out of a motor home at the beach in the spring of 1981 and I replaced it with a 1651 Legend Limited that I've been giging with ever since, always plugged in, and most often through two amps in stereo.
When I cut back on my other extracurricular activities a few years ago, it was time to convert the dance studio into a guitar room. I now have a relatively eclectic collection of guitars, amps, signs, lights, collectibles, and a lot of junk. I play three of them frequently (USA Strat with Texas Specials, the 1651, and an ES-135 with P-90s) seven others occasionally, nine maybe four or five times a year, and 3 never. My GAS list is now down to ten, four of which are Adamas/Ovation. Unfortunately, not one of them is cheap, so I'm pacing myself.
I've also come to the conclusion that even great guitars sound and play lousy if not set-up properly while an inexpensive guitar set-up perfectly to the player's exact preferences can do wonders to the owner's perceived value of the instrument. |
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November 2005
Posts: 4833
Location: Campbell River, British Columbia | Why buy a guitar?
Because it looks kinda silly standing on stage singing without backup. (or like kareoke)
Why buy an Ovation?
(early 70's)Glen Campbell, Jim Croce. The other guy in the duo of the day (still buds but haven't played together for decades) had a 1111 (still has it)
The neck, the neck, the neck
The volume. The full range sound.
Someday I'll have to hear what the Adamas line is all about. For now, I lust for a 12 string O...one day. |
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September 2003
Posts: 9301
Location: south east Michigan | It's a long process.
First it's the spark of that one little neuron deep in the part of the brain that controls G.A.S.
If the flame is nurtured and well tended an image, fuzzy at first, then clear, will form in the mind's eye. Once this image is indentified as an acoustic or electric or even a ukelele, the base hunter/gatherer instinct that has existed in man since the dawn of days kicks in strong.
The hunt begins...Music stores, internet stores....and to underscore the intense desire, yes, even...Guitar Centers.
The experienced hunter will take his time and stalk his prey with care and respect. A purchase that is made in haste is usually regreted in a short time. He walks the never ending, convoluted paths awaiting that one intersection where logic, emotion, tactile and ofactory senses, pent up desire, and finances meet. For a successful hunt all of these factors need to be present in their proper proportions.
In due time the trigger is pulled and the trophy is claimed. It's difficult to find a comparison to the joy of this momment. It's not to be equated with the love of spouse and family, yet it is a powerful state of mind. Enjoy this time. For G.A.S. is a fickle mistress and brooks no denile. In time, sometimes a very short time, this newfound object of desire can loose it's alure. And then you will find yourself tending yet another tiny, flamming ember. One that will grow and start the cycle once again. Embrace these seasons...it is the natural order of things. |
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December 2001
Posts: 10583
Location: NJ | Most of my personal guitars have been bought in minutes. I pick up the guitar play it and either like the feel of the neck and the acoustic sound or not and that goes for electric as well as acoustic. I am rather impulsive and will buy something with a 10 on the coolness factor meter before I go for functionality. for me the coolness factor is usually a distinctive finish or flaw in the wood or a cool old vintage piece with a ton of mojo.
when I order inventory or do trades, I try to determine what the public wants and what the trends are and if I can move an item in a reasonable amount of time or not. Those purchases I agonize over since they aren't for me. |
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June 2006
Posts: 29
Location: Port Angeles, WA | A guitar usually appeals to my visual senses first. Then, if it sounds good, I will become interested enough to try one out. I like a narrow neck because I have small hands. So, all my guitars have been visually appealing, good sound, with a narrow neck and low action.
I first became interested in Ovation back around 1970, and I remember trying to purchase one. I was interested in the innovative design, as well as its sound, looks, and playability. I ended up buying another guitar (that I still own) because I couldn't afford the Ovation at the time. I bet a lot of us wish they had an unlimited budget for guitars!
I always liked the looks of Ovations with epaulets, as well as their narrow neck and low action and sound, and when I needed an acoustic/electric a few years ago I bought one. I loved the way it looked, and it played great, and it was affordable. Since I got it, I've enjoyed playing more than any other time, and I can say my playing has grown more during the same period as a result. |
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January 2004
Posts: 627
Location: Cherry Hill, NJ | I bought my first Ovation, cause at the time, they were the only real acoustics had decent electronics and piezo pick ups. Also I wanted an acoustic I could play past the 5th fret. Electrics, well humbucker, single coil |
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Posts: 11840
Location: closely held secret | Chat and Brian already listed my reasons.
Lack of self discipline is why I have as many as I do.
A matching lack of cash is why I don't have more. Well, ok, and my wife.
I decided I wanted a representation of each basic type - wood top 6 and 12, Adamas, nylon, electric, mando, uke... I'm almost there. Then it's on to finagling my way to the best of each category...
And the voices. I hear them now...
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January 2006
Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains | Last weekend, somebody asked me why I owned 23 guitars. I told them because I couldn't afford 24. |
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March 2006
Posts: 269
Location: Nîmes, south of France | I had my very first Ovation 28 years ago because Marcel Dadi had one to play fingerpicking :p . I love the sound and the fingerboard but don't feel good with its deep bowl, which i found TOO deep and instable to hold when sat on a chair :( . I sold it in year 1990 then bought an Elite 1868-4 because it had a SSB, which i found very confortable to play, and epaulets which gave a very attractive look :) . Then i recently bought Stephen T28 Adamas 1881-2 because it is carbon sound and SSB :) :) . Later i should like same type with WN, like Marcel's ivory one :D :D :D . Great sound, nice construction and playability, i really love these fine guitars for fingerpicking. |
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March 2005
Posts: 12761
Location: Boise, Idaho | Supplementing my earlier response:
99 Collector's--it's red, it's beautiful, it was local and it's Ovation
1537--After I started reading this board, I had to get it and it's Ovation
Custom Balladeer--"needed" a shallow bowl, an OFC member offered it at a good price and it's Ovation
Classic--saw it in a music store and didn't even know Ovation made nylon string guitars. Got some recommendations from the OFC and had a fried play Classical Gas on it, so I had to have it. (Bad timing, since I got a call from my father-in -law as I was bringing it home, asking if I wanted this Custom Balladeer that this guy brought over to show him. See above.)
Country Artist--saw the video of Glen Campbell playing Classical Gas and figured I better have one, besides it was a shallow bowl and it looked cool to have 4 Ovations lined up with different bowl sizes.
Ultra GS--drunk and confused ebay purchase (made a low bid, thinking it was an Ultra GP.)
Folklore--"needed" a wider neck steel string guitar. Ebayer didn't know what he had.
The common thread is that they are all Ovations. Nothing else seems to ring my chimes.
I still "need" a deep bowl Legend, preferably Custom and red and an Adamas, preferably a Ute, a red one and a blue one. Then I'll start up on 12 strings. |
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July 2004
Posts: 812
Location: Hicksville, NY | Why buy a guitar?
Although my playing abilities are limited, I've always considered music to be one of the things I love and enjoy on an on-going basis. I can still remember the day that I dropped everything, picked up a guitar, and taught myself how to play after hearing a Jim Croce song played on the radio.
For the longest time, I perceived that "a guitar is a guitar is a guitar ..." Thanks to the Internet and virtual musical communities like the OFC that I realized my perceptions to be so wrong. After owning several guitars made in the Far East (mainly Korea, Indonesia, and the Philippines), I finally managed to purchase my first U.S. made guitar, and it happened to be an Ovation. The rest is history ... hopefully, one day I'll be able to find a good companion for my one and only O (finance permitting with spouse approval). |
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January 2002
Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch | What makes you buy a guitar?
It has to be something special, like a sunrise, or noon whistle, or realizing you don't have one of these, or seeing that it's 2:00 and you haven't bought anything today. Mostly Brian nailed it, it's the voices.
To say it's lack of dicipline, well, that's a given, isn't it? (I do agree with this reason as well however) |
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August 2004
Posts: 604
Location: Tampa, FL | The discipline problem is easily solved.
Just place a personal ad in your local paper - Man seeking Guitarminitrix - Discipline will follow.
With any luck, she will understand the importance of a really good top, demonstrate the ablility to vibrate freely, and have an inexhaustable supply of batteries. An affection for synthetics may be desirable. Should your artistic senses align, that's icing on the cake. If the end result is that woody ambiance so often sought, who could ask for more.
Never mind... |
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Posts: 12761
Location: Boise, Idaho | Do you prefer a natural top or is laminated OK? |
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June 2003
Posts: 1792
Location: Rego Park, NY, | Knobs or sliders? :rolleyes: :eek: |
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December 2003
Posts: 13997
Location: Upper Left USA | I heard my Drummer remark that she doesn't want her daughters to marry a guitar player because they are always thinking about their next guitar!
My reply was "So?"...
I have obsessive tendancies.
I hear voices.
Its not like I fish or drive Porsches! |
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January 2006
Posts: 171
Location: Bangkok, Thailand | I like the design. |
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May 2003
Posts: 4389
Location: Capital District, NY, USA Minor Outlying Islands | Did anyone here mention to impress the girls?
I think for anyone (at least me) under age 25 that was a first consideration.
I guess now it's still there but not so much. |
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March 2005
Posts: 12761
Location: Boise, Idaho | Originally posted by MWoody:
.
I hear voices.
Its not like I fish or drive Porsches! Or play golf? I've spent less on guitars than some people have spent on golf clubs, not counting the green fees, memberships, etc.
Skiing is another one. Some have to have this year's equipment and clothing and $50 is nothing for a lift ticket.
We could go on and on. The guitar obsession is no different than any other. |
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November 2005
Posts: 4833
Location: Campbell River, British Columbia | Originally posted by an4340:
Did anyone here mention to impress the girls?
Well, yeah... 3 or 4 decades ago.
The school jocks were SO pissed off. The rugby team had to share two girls while these pimply runt rockers were getting 2 or three girls each! The only way the universe could be set right was by beating the crap out of the muso's
Actually, on a good night, even today...near closing time...some chicky may flash her boobs at the band. Happens more often when you have t-shirts to give away as prizes! :cool: |
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March 2002
Posts: 14842
Location: NJ | My partner Rick summed-it-up best one night:
". . Name ONE other "job" where you can get some other guy's cute, drunken wife t'shake her ass (among other things) in your face and then go over and berate her husband to put a 10$pot in your TipJar . ."
Nights like that, you forget all the bullshit and say t'yerself:
". . I LOVE this job! . . . . . " |
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January 2002
Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch | Here's a good quote from Ed Gerhard, a great fingerstyle guitarist.
"We start playing guitar to get the chicks and wind up 30 years later talking with other old men about our fingernails" |
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February 2006
Posts: 140
| Why buy a guitar? My mom asked me that years ago. I said that I cant put her grand piano around my neck. Why Ovation? back in 75, when i was a high School Senior, our swing choir performed at a contest. I had an Epiphone flattop ( not bad), The next choir out was performing,and the guitar player was playing one of the first Ovations I had ever seen. It miked excellent. Ever since then I was into Ovations. |
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April 2004
Posts: 13303
Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | Originally posted by cwk2:
Here's a good quote from Ed Gerhard, a great fingerstyle guitarist.
"We start playing guitar to get the chicks and wind up 30 years later talking with other old men about our fingernails" That quote is priceless. One of the best I have heard in a long time! |
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June 2004
Posts: 580
Location: NW NJ | Wow - this has made me really think (instead of just spouting off the first ting that comes to mind ...). I am a simlple guy and have a simple list:
1. Playability. For me, playability is really the neck and the action. You guys have encouraged me to start messing around farther up the neck, so the instrument has to barre easily and not cause my hands to cramp from playing it.
2. Sound. Plugged in first and acoustic second. What attracted me to O's is the plugged in sound and to multi-holes because they don't feedback as fast. I'm no rocker, but feedback in church smells real bad.
3. Innovation (read something technically well thought out and different, despite criticizm from the establishment). Naturally, Ovation fits there. The premium wood box guitar manufacturers all have well thought out guitars, but they are way too timid in challenging the status quo. Imagine the row at Martin when someone decided to build HPL guitars. In this case though, it was different (and cheaper to build), but imho they just don't deliver the sound.
4. Looks. The guitar should look cool. Cool can be different (multi-holes with epaulets), unique (really cool wood - like bear claw), or crazy - like the flame tops. Coolness never outweighs 1,2 & 3 though for me.
So why do I have what I have today?
Well the twins (1718/1758) are fabulous instruments, easy to play, and old like me and worth preserving and loving. Since I don't play WAY up the neck yet, no cutaway is no issue.
The 1778T is my favorite player (closely followed by the 1718). The neck is PERFECT for me and a joy to play. Acoustically, it is a knockout and the look of that bowl paint top is cool.
6778LX-NEB - Awww, come on ... just LOOK at it. It is the prettiest guitar I have ever seen. I could look at it for hours, and it plays and sounds fine too!
The 1868LX sounds great for a shallow bowl acoustically and is a nice change from the mid/deep bowls above. It is the one I give to electric players in the High School worship team to use when we soften the set up and go acoustic. It gets played the least, and may be the next one to go and find a new home.
The Viper ... well everyone NEEDS an electric, right? Might as well keep it in the family since I am half clueless about electrics anyway. I love the ease of play of an electric, but I really don't know what to do with it to get the most out of it. I don't like the flex in the neck of the electric guitars that I have played because I can bend them too easily and throw the thing in and out of tune. See, I really don't know what I am doing with an electric!
I have tried to find a non-O that I like, and after countless visits to large and small music stores, I've only found one that thrilled me. It was a Taylor 614CE. It was a beautiful looking and sounding instrument and played as easy as my O's. The $2400 price tag kept me from picking it up. For $800 I bought both of the twins - that's all I have to say about that ...
Long answer for a simple guy, huh? |
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Location: closely held secret | Nice analysis, Robbie! |
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Location: Budd Lake, NJ | Hi, fellow roundback affectionados;
Robbie's insightful thoughts have given me the courage to post my first reply.
What do I look for when guitar shopping? To match the neck of my "Ol' Lady," a G-1111-4 from the early 70's. She is my "Gold Standard," against whom all other guitar necks rise or fall. I have only ever found one--on the wall in the smaller "trophy room" at the mothership. A shiny bowl, with a very slender blond neck. Sweet. There have been a few others that came close--but no cigar.
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Karen
G-1111-4, CE868LX-4, Viper 1271 Natural, Steinberger Spirit 5-String, Fender American Strat |
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Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | Welcome Karen....good first post!
and what a great user ID. Is Jewel your daughter (duh)? |
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Location: Budd Lake, NJ | Thank you so much for the welcome; I think I will really enjoy my ventures onto the site. Actually, "Jewel" is the LX; she's the newest addition to the crew. All my guitars have names, and hers is based on a verse from the Bible.
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Karen
G-1111-4 ("Gertrude"), CE868LX-4 ("Jewel"), Viper 1271 Natural ("Blanca"), Steinberger Spirit 5-String ("Sugar") and Fender American Strat ("Ivory"); there's also a Guild on a more-or-less permanent loan to a friend. |
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Location: Rego Park, NY, | Karen,
You have more courage than you realize. You shared your musical talent with all the members who attended the Tour jam this year. My level of courage is not anywhere near yours. That is why I kept myself busy with taking pictures and video. That way I can use it as an excuse just in case someone asks me to get up and play.
I have played in front of people before, but only because if I screwed up they wouldn't know the difference. So end your lurking days. It will be nice to hear from you.
Phil |
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Location: Boise, Idaho | Is there really a Budd Lake, New Jersey? We have a Mud Lake, Idaho, aptly named, except in the summer when there's no lake or mud. |
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Location: NJ | Budd Lake is part of Mt. Olive Township in Jersey.
My band partner lives there . . .
Our very first gig together was this little place there called the HighNoon. WhaddaDump. |
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Location: Chicagoland | Well I learned on a Strat, so when I went shopping for an aucostic it makes sense that I fell in love with Ovations. The feel was familar, and I liked the fact that you could hear each individual string ring out.
Why I buy guitars in general? So far, becuase I need them. As my skills and ears have developed I have seen the need. As of right now I have 5 guitars and none of them are remotley like each other ( the closest thing is a balladeer lx and an old 80s 12 string balladeer). |
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Location: cincinnati, ohio | My WIFE made me buy my newest Ovation. Yeah, you're not seeing things. The same wife who can't understand my look of horror when she suggests I lock my guitar in the trunk of my car instead of embarrassing her by bringing it into the restaurant when we eat out when I'm on the way to a gig. We were out mallwalking on a day off (we actually had some free time)and she (SHE!) suggested we go browse in Willis Music Store (ironically, I had bought my first two Ovations from two other Willis locations). She was even kind enough to spread a dropcloth on the floor when we got to the Ovation rack and I started drooling. Both of us were drawn to a really beautiful Celebrity Deluxe with a nutmeg quilted maple finish and an OP 30 preamp. The price was very right; I play out a lot, and I'm always on the lookout for a road guitar. I reluctantly started to put it back on the rack when Vicki said, "Why don't you buy it? It's gorgeous." Somehow I managed not to drop the guitar and put it back on the rack. I felt her forehead and asked, "You okay, hon? Do we need to take you to the emergency room?" She shook her head. "I'm fine. Why don't you get it? You deserve it." Now I'm thinking they were going to have to take ME to the emergency room. 'I'm in an alternate universe--that's GOT to be it!' I thought. But no, here was a salesman coming over. Turns out it was the same guy I had bought my first two Ovations from. Frank had been a kid just starting out at Willis's downtown store in 1971 when I bought my Balladeer, and was working at the Northgate Mall store when I got my Pacemaker in '74. Now he was manager of the TriCounty Mall store and also the district manager. I actually managed to walk away from it, but I had him pull it off the shelf so I could think about it a couple of days-- and make sure my wife didn't have second thoughts. I went back two days later and got it. i think I was destined to get it, since it was the same music store and the same salesman I'd been dealing with over a span of 35 years.
So I hadn't actually been looking for one. When I got my Balladeer in '71, it was my first really "top notch" guitar; I'd been playing a Yamaha FG 150, which was nice, but it wasn't an "O." My mom threw a fit when I brought the Ovation home-- I paid $365 for it, which was a chunk of change in 1971. Years later she admitted it was a good investment. You never know. She also admitted some 20 years after getting on my case about listening to "that hillbilly music" ("Sweet Baby James") that "...that James Taylor guy might be for real." It's a funny world. |
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Location: Boise, Idaho | Rick caused my Catholic guilt to resurface. My wife, the same one I complain about all the time, actually bought me my first Ovation, the Matrix. At $245 it was a chunk of money in 1977, but it was so I could have something nice at our wedding. Of course, I sold 2 other guitars for $200 to help pay for it and never bought her an engagement ring, but that's another story.
Recently, I've been lusting after a Ute, actually I've been lusting after one since before the Folklore, Country Artist, Classic, Balladeer and maybe even the 87 and 1537, and told my wife I would use a dividend check to buy one in August. She said she wanted new carpet, but then said we had a little extra money, so why don't I just buy it now? She got called in to work at the hospital last night. 12 hours at $45 an hour goes a long way toward that Ute.
Oh, and Rick, the same thing happened when I saw my daughter's NMQ CS 247 at GC. That thing is a stunner. |
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Location: cincinnati, ohio | So, Mark-- you're a mackerel snapper too, eh? Something else we have in common besides a love for Ovation guitars. You're of an age (I think) where if you went to a Catholic grade school, you were lucky to escape with your psyche intact. When I was in second grade, we had a nun who called one of the class troublemakers to the front of the room and made him hunt through a "junk drawer" for a pair of scissors so she could "cut his fingers off since he couldn't keep his hands to himself." This went on for about 15 minutes (with the kid literally screaming in terror and the rest of us watching bug-eyed with horror)until she told the kid to sit down and not do it again. We never saw him again after that day; I think his parents got wise and yanked him out into public school. And yet we still go to church on Sunday. Go figure.
You're right; that is a BEAUTIFUL guitar. The thing I can't figure, though, is that the CS 257 doesn't come in that finish according to the Ovation website; the CS 247 does. Yet the model number on the inside label IS CS 257. Maybe it's an older model, although it has an OP 30 preamp. Doesn't matter to me; it's gorgeous and I fell in love with it.
BTW, do you have a link to your gallery, Mark? I want to check out your photos, and I'm lazy!
Rick |
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Location: Boise, Idaho | I'm to lazy and too dumb to do a link. Just go into the Gallery. It's there. I never had a nun that was too bad, but I never was bad enough to experience whether all the stories of the paddles with holes in them so they could swing faster or the whips with knots in them were true. I really had a good experience. The only downside was we had huge classes where they couldn't give the kids much attention. I thought that when the level of discipline went down when I went to a public school, the quality of the education went down, too. Sent both girls to Catholic grade and high schools and it was well worth it. One graduated Summa Cum Laude from University of Idaho and the other still hasn't had anything less than an A in her life. Both were in the top 1% on the SATs or ACTs. I could go on and on, but it's time to get back to Ovations. |
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Location: NJ | ". . I never had a nun that was too bad . ."
Me neither.
(but they DO taste like chicken . . .) |
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Location: cincinnati, ohio | I'll check it out, Mark.
I went through Catholic grade school and an all-boys Catholic High School (which is why I went nuts, became a musician and ran wild when I discovered all the WOMEN at the University of Cincinnati!). Got an excellent education which helped me breeze through college. The high school was run by the Franciscan Fathers. I was a good kid and never had any discipline problems, never went to detention. Occasionally I'd get whapped across the butt with a cincture (the immortal "knotted cords") when I'd screw up a declension in Latin class. It wasn't that hard, though, and it didn't hurt. It was just to get our attention. Worst thing to ever happen was I got bonked on the head with a science book by Father Ludwig when I corrected him in an astronomy class (which I now teach at Cincinnati State Community and Technical College). He said the 5th planet in the solar system was named "Juniper," and got upset when I said, "Uh, Father, don't you mean 'Jupiter?'" How dare I contradict him! That's as far as it went though--I didn't go to detention for my "crime." Interestingly enough, the next day he was saying "Jupiter," and I never got so much as an apology.
Anyway, as you said, back to the Ovations. |
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Location: Boise, Idaho | I knew you'd catch that when I wrote it, Cliff. |
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Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | Paddles with holes in them were not an exclusive Catholic School thing. My public junior high school had them and while I was a pretty good kid, I still got to experience the extra speed and sting on a few occassions (the sadistic bastards!) |
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Location: Boise, Idaho | And then we went to the other extreme. Before my kids were in school, some parent here in conservative Boise sued the school district because they wouldn't let her daughter come to school with blue hair. The school district gave up. It was not the religion that caused me to send the kids to parochial school, it was the inability of the public schools to deal with parents who thought the schools were there to raise their children to do whatever the children wanted to do. |
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Location: cincinnati, ohio | Well said. In these days of "political correctness" (I GAG on the term), I'd like to know what happened to plain old COMMON SENSE!!!! |
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Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | and discipline! |
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Location: Bluffton, SC | Common sense? Discipline?
Did I somehow wander into the Martin Board??? |
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Location: SE Michigan | What's so terrible about blue hair? Let the kid humiliate herself for awhile and she'll revert back to semi-normal on her own. And even if she doesnt, what's so terrible about blue hair? |
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Location: Bluffton, SC | Agreed, Brian. I believe you have to give kids some room (albeit somewhat structured) to stretch and grow. If the worst thing my daughter does is dye her hair blue for a little while? I'm thanking God. |
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Location: Earth·SolarSystem·LocalInterstellarCloud·Local Bub | Weaser,
I dyed my hair blue.
..... shaved the rest |
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Location: Boise, Idaho | Nothing wrong with blue hair. Everything wrong with your parents suing so you could wear it. What's wrong with a dress code? |
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Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | Originally posted by Weaser P:
If the worst thing my daughter does is dye her hair blue for a little while? I'm thanking God. Spoken like someone who I bet hasn't had to deal with that yet. :D
How old is your daughter, Weeze? |
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Location: south east Michigan | It's kids jobs to test boundries. It's the parents job to hold the line at some point. I let my three boys experiment with their hair style... up to a point. They did get it out of their system. Besides...they probably will end up with my hairline someday. I figured I'd let them have a choice of hairstyles while thay can.
Now on the other side...a good friend let his son have his hair any way he wanted. And boy did he get wild with it. Where is that boy now??? Working at a high profile hair salon in Vegas. When Wayne Gretzkey and Robin Williams come to town, they request him to cut their hair. |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | Originally posted by Slipkid:
When Wayne Gretzkey and Robin Williams come to town, they request him to cut their hair. Two celebs well known for their hairstyles !!! |
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Location: Bluffton, SC | Originally posted by stephent28:
Originally posted by Weaser P:
If the worst thing my daughter does is dye her hair blue for a little while? I'm thanking God. Spoken like someone who I bet hasn't had to deal with that yet. :D
How old is your daughter, Weeze? |
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Location: Bluffton, SC | Originally posted by Jeff W.:
Weaser,
I dyed my hair blue.
..... shaved the rest Bet that made you popular in school, Jeff, (and specifically, I'm guessing, the locker room). |
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Location: south east Michigan | I am now claiming victory in the "tatoo wars". When any of my kids would test that boundry I'd say, "Sure...you can get 5 tatoos. As long as the first one says, I Love My Daddy. |
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Location: NJ | ". . What's so terrible about blue hair? . ."
I agree.
Haven't any of you guys ever been to Branson, Missouri?? |
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Location: SE Michigan | My wife and I agreed that if our kids insist on tatoos the only place it will be allowed is on the soles of their feet. |
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Location: NJ | Great Idea.
That'll hurt like a futhermucker . . . |
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Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | Originally posted by cliff:
". . What's so terrible about blue hair? . ."
I agree.
Haven't any of you guys ever been to Branson, Missouri?? Cliff, I thing that is a jewish age thing :rolleyes: |
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Location: Knoxville, TN | #1 - Unplugged sound (if it's an acous/elec.)
#2 - Plugged in sound " "
#3 - The feel of the neck/action
#4 - Looks / Finish
1 & 2 are most important to me but if you can manage all four for a good price it's an awesome feeling. |
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Posts: 584
Location: Denmark | What made me buy:
The Gibson: The sound. The one I kept was chosen because it was a bargain.
My roundback: I needed an acoustic steel string guitar. Ovation type guitars was chosen for aesthetics. The one I kept because it looks good, it is a delight to play, it sounds good. And it was a bargain - sort of.
My classical: The sound. The one I kept has a very clear and well defined sound, and seemed a bit louder than the others I tested. |
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Location: Hicksville, NY | I bought a guitar, cos I love music. The guitar's portability (take it wherever you go) was also one of the many reasons I learned to play it. In the past -- to me -- a guitar is a guitar is a guitar ...
That hasn't been the case since discovering the OFC ... I value them guitars more these days ... |
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Location: The Great Pacific Northwest | I guess with me it's usually the same... Bang vs. Bucks. Useability and Craftsmanship vs Price. |
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What makes you buy a guitar?