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The Martin vs Alvarez Answer!!!
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- čas přidán 14. 08. 2024
- This is the results of the comparison we did blind on the Bluegrass Guitar Facebook group!! It was a ton of fun!! Thanks to all the members who helped me out on this one!! Cheers
I have a '78 Alvarez Yairi. Looks just like an old Martin. My dad bought it brand new, but gave it to me when I was like 12 cause I was playing every day. After that I played all day every day. I learned so many songs on it. I still have it and it is still as sweet as the first day I strummed it for the first time. He payed 750 bucks for it in 1978 and played it on a submarine when he was in the Navy. I still love it and play it almost everyday.
Dy90 was mine
Do you think the saltwater air helped dry it out to help age it?
$750 back then is quite a bit now, not to mention a sailor's pay.
@@BryanClark-gk6ieyou actually do not want guitars to dry out, and it’s pretty humid in a submarine if I’m not mistaken. But that humidity was probably good for it yeah.
@@Emoralis
Didn't know anything about submarines is why I asked.
After doing some research, I figured out several music stores in my area have what they call' the submarine room to keep their acoustic instruments in.
Alvarez is a fine instrument at an incredible price.
I’m a small bench luthier, I build 4-5 guitars a year. I first experienced producing a large soundhole guitar using a torrefied Adirondack top, with sinker mahogany back and sides. It had a 4 3/8 soundhole. It was an absolute cannon. Forward shifted and heavily scalloped bracing. Every guitar I’ve built since then has had at least a 4 1/4 inch soundhole. I just prefer the look and serviceability of them. There’s to many variables in guitar construction to say either way. That’s my .02
Great insight. I am a 66 self taught player. Started at 13 years old learning Cat Stevens. I've owned the big names and the nameless. There are great and not so great guitars. I believe a guitar picks the player. Does it speak to you ? Can you feel it? Does it move and inspire you?
Its not about the $$$$. Its all wood in the end. Thanks for listening.
😎💖💙🏖🏖🏖😎
i guess im randomly asking but does anyone know a method to get back into an Instagram account?
I stupidly forgot my password. I love any tips you can offer me.
@Crew Mateo Instablaster ;)
@Arturo Colton i really appreciate your reply. I found the site on google and Im trying it out atm.
I see it takes a while so I will reply here later with my results.
@Arturo Colton It worked and I now got access to my account again. I am so happy!
Thanks so much you really help me out !
@Crew Mateo Happy to help =)
Oh, I've got an Alvarez Yairi DY55 1979. Kind of a no frills guitar, but the sound is deep, colorful, mysterious and beautiful. The thing with the Alvarez--it puts out more...the more you put in. Quite divine. I used to call it my Stradivarius.
I loved your enthusiasm for people to prioritise using their ears. Your sense of enjoying each instrument for their best qualities comes through. Your openess to exploring and enjoying is the hallmark of an excellent musician. Thanks for the time and thought you put into this.
JP I love the quote at the end. I'd consider myself an "ok" player at best and used to always feel like giving up when I'd see how quickly other people progressed or how good they are. As I've gotten older and perhaps wiser it has really become more about enjoyment and and experiencing that feeling of strumming an open G on something that somebody made with their hands and sharing that and stories with others.
What a great way to have spent the last 20 minutes. I'm not a guitar player. I just enjoyed the "lecture" Very fun, very cool.
Guild is killing it right now to, even their budget Westerly line is impressive. I got a D-140 a year so ago and recently a Bluesbird Iced tea . I have nothing but high praise and play as good or better than guitars 2x the price combined.
Oh my goodness. That Boucher sounds amazing... much more balanced than either the Martin or the Alvarez. I thought the Alvarez had a nicer, tighter bottom end and cleaner high end. But the Martin has that focused mid-range that ya gotta love. The blind test was really entertaining, J.P. Thank you for the time you invest in us.
This is almost my first ever comment on a CZcams video. I just want to say that you radiate a kindness and it was fun watching your guitar lecture!!!
Great video. I played an Alvarez for the first time yesterday. My heart skipped a beat as that first G chord rang out. Wanted to do my research before I buy and you've made my choice pretty simple. That Alvarez is gonna be mine!
Dude did you end up scooping one up?
😅I’m 😊😊😢
Unfortunately 😊😊lpg😊pl😊
I own two 1972 Martins and I've learned to open my mind to other brands.
Stubbornness is not a virtue. ;-)
70s Martins are notoriously "inconsistent" lol
Love my 75 Yari Rosewood and spruce all solid and Bone
I believe 72 does not have scalloped bracing.
Given you have 1970s Martins, have you checked the bridge placement/intonation. The majority of the 70s Martins had the bridge in the wrong place.
@@jeffhildreth9244not the majority, a small minority
The two brands I primarily recommend to my students are Alverez and Seagull.
True 'player' guitars that sound great and are light on the pocketbook.
I have an Alvarez 5064 MIJ from late 70’s. I love it! I’ll save up & get one of the new breed, not 100% sure which one yet but I’m so impressed with that sound & value for money. Great honest down to earth video, Thankyou! 👍
Just bought an Alvarez Yairi tonight. This makes me feel really good about my purchase.
Was it a used guitar, or new? How much did you pay?
Yairi's are excellent.
Have a Yairi myself. They sound like they have their own soul.
At the end of the day, my 73 model alvarez is my favorite guitar to pick up and play. My dad handed it to me 20 years ago.
I got my Alvarez and Martin from my Dad after he passed, I grew up playing them all through the 70s, 80's and 90's. The Alvarez is my favorite acoustic guitar.
As a hack (from the other end of the province), who has been trying to play for almost 50 years.. I really appreciate your enthusiasm and of course your talent. Thanks for these videos. Its good to see you posting again.
So true!!!! I'm very blessed with several high end guitars. We (guitar players) know it's the guitar (not brand. ) and of course player. How many times have you picked up a friends guitar or at a shop etc and the guitar was so easy to play and the sound/tone/action everything was just perfect for "you " . Well, maybe not too many, but, when that magic happens: does it matter what names is on the headstock? Of course not. You just want the guitar cause it fits "you" perfect!!!! That's all that matters! Be happy with what you have and play. And, if you don't have your perfect guitar yet, hang in there, you will.
Just keep playing!!!! Cheers!!!
I bought a factory second Alvarez (stamped "almost perfect" on the label) a few years ago. It was outside StJohn's Music on Broadway Avenue in Saskatoon Saskatchewan. There were two cracks in the top so the already low price was cut in half. I took that sweetheart home, stabilized the top with some high quality aliphatic resin glue and played it for a few years. My son now has that guitar and plays it as part of his professional life in music acting and dance. He writes amazing songs on it and plugs it in when he needs a lot of loud. Astonishingly great guitar for well under $400 Canadian. Thats under $300 U.S. One of the best guitars I have ever played and I'm proud it is helping him earn a living. I have a rough looking but very reliable and LOUD Yamaki Deluxe, and my current main guitar is a Simon and Patrick Songsmith. I still feel like I'd love to own a D-28 or a J-45, but I've tried them from time to time and never been able justify the huge price tag. Maybe some day, but at this point in my life, probably not. I'll just enjoy the great guitars I have that are worth almost no money. Keep on rockin' no matter what you can play; just play. Thanks for the words of wisdom and encouragement J.P.
I'm 57 and really new to youtube and the internet stuff. I love Alvarez guitars. I have a 12 string and a 6. Love em both. Thank you for sharing the point of a Martin wont make you play any better than a cheap Kay guitar. Time behind the guitar makes the player, not the guitar.
Again thanks for the video.
Great day to you sir.
I bought an Alvarez AG60CEAR today and I love it. The action was perfect right out of the box. I love the sound.
Loved your challenge! These are the first of your videos I've seen. You sir are an amazing player!
Back in the early 1980s I bought an Alvarez, best decision on buying a guitar that I ever made. I played a number of Marten's that the dealer had in stock first, and the Alvarez I bought was not only less expensive, but sounded so much nicer. Over the years, I have compared it to other guitars, including other Marten's, and it still sounds awesome to me. My guitar, well that one, like most of us I have a bunch of guitars for various reasons, was handmade. It leads me to believe that it was made by the hands of master luthier Kazuo Yairi. Alvarez makes decent, and fairly affordable, guitars that have been played by some pretty well know names, think Joe Bonamassa, Carlos Santana, and many others. Really nice video, sir.
Thank you for putting this together. Have a blessed day.
I have a 1999 Martin D35 and an Alvarez AD70SC NAT....Funny I love playing the Alvarez more...my Martin sits in its case, because the Alvarez just plays easier and sounds just as good if not better. I'm afraid to scratch the Martin...LOL, I did notice the build quality of the Alvarez seems so much better, the neck and frets are amazing. What's up with this??
That was really wonderful and informative. I just picked up a 20 year old Alvarez master series that is well, one of the most amazing sounding guitars I remember playing.
Great video and I agree wholeheartedly with your statements. I started out with an Alvarez a long time ago and let it get away from me for some reason. A few years ago I went to buy myself a really, really good guitar with intentions of it being a Martin. I walked out with an Alvarez Masterworks and I have never been happier with a guitar. As you said, it just fits.
wow! listening to you on headphones..the Alvarez jumps into my face (and head) so clear and present..Dont get me wrong..the Martin sounds great,but the winner to me is the Alvarez..believe me it sounds better...
Man, you're a monster player. Also appreciate your knowledge on acoustic guits.
This guy's a real jaw droper on guitar!
I have no preference. I don’t subscribe to the idea that tone woods are the sole reason for a guitar’s sound. Body shape, design, bracing and the builder are more important.
BOTH building material and building design are vital to a fine guitar that will age well and that will increase in value and that will improve in sound over time. Four ingredients make a super guitar: design (scalloped bracing etc.), workmanship (even tones require craftsmanship), materials (tone woods, hide glue, solid instead of laminate, etc,) and age (age will not help a cheap guitar but will greatly improve an expensive one). Beginners do not need a fine guitar, so go for a good design of guitar (for best sound for your money and for ease of play) and work up to a fine investment guitar.
youtube channel " andertons music co " did a vid discussing " Alvarez Artist Elite Acoustics " and they mentioned how surprised they were that guitars made with the same shape and bracing but used different types of " tone " woods all sounded so similar.
tom san I’ve tried a bunch of Alvarezes and the hard woods like Walnut definitely sound more muted than my Sitka Spruce of the same bracing and body shape.
@@jaymacdonnell4730 Different woods will definitely sound different, but poor build and workmanship, design etc. will not make the best woods sound good.
Nice
I had been looking for an "acceptable" dreadnaught in the sub-$1500 range that really resonated with me. I picked up the MD60BG back in June, and for the price was surprisingly so much more than just an "eh... that'll do" type of guitar. It really is as good as you were purporting in this video series... I don't feel the need to "step up" to a Martin or any other instrument...I don't feel I'd get much of a better guitar out of it. I picked up the MD70EBG last night so I could have the rosewood B/S version.. and it's pretty good too... but the MD60BG sounds more "lush" to me. Anyhow... thanks for posting the "Martin vs. Alvarez" miniseries. Really helped me find the right instrument for me at the moment. I'll be looking more at your channel content, and joining as a supporting member.
Hiya JP! Been a while... Yes, this is the GSWJ video that moved your channel into the fast lane! I just wanna say Thanks again. For a little more than a year, my MD60BG has lived on a stand right next to my recliner. The slim taper neck and low action makes this guitar such a joy to play. I especially enjoy handing it to typical guitar snobs, then seeing the look on their face when they hit that first big "G" chord! I've put this Alvarez up against two different vintage D18's and the Alvarez flat smoked them out...
A FEW DAYS AGO, I ran across a used Alvarez MD70BG Masterworks Series that was for sale $600. HOLY CRAP... A REAL DEAL D28 killer! It played just as easy as the MD60BG and sounded AMAZING! Adirondack top, Indian Rosewood back and sides... I want it so bad!!!! Hoping to have the cash rounded up in a few days!
I own one of those Alvarez guitars my wife was gonna buy what I wanted and I went to look at a Martin D15m which is an all mahagony guitar the Alavarez actually has a more clear balanced sound honestly and I grew up listening to Martin’s
The last guitar sounded amazing and SO loud! Brilliant!
That Boucher ensured that we maintained some perspective! Lol. What a guitar!
I’m a huge fan of both Alvarez and Breedlove guitars. I’m picking up the MD60BGE next week!
JP!!! I recently bought an Alvarez MD60BG based solely on this video and DAMNIT... I just wanna THANK YOU!
Nice! Thanks for the history and comparisons. I've owned my share of Gibbies & Martins over 70 years, and among of the most memorable of two Japanese-made I've played were the A.Y.s and one Suzuki in particular. (Damn I should have bought that Suzi!) I chuckled when you mentioned the bottom end of older Martins, I had a '46 D-18 that was ALL lower end and dead as a doornail within seconds! Still, thanks to mics, I chunked out leads for which myself and our band got food and beer money back in the day on a regular basis. I lucked into a special Yamaha 12 about a decade and and she's quite sweet, but you've convinced me to go look for another A.Yairi six for here in my twilight years.
Thanks, bro.
Just grabbed an Alvy MD60BG practically untouched “used” - couldn’t be happier with the tone and playability.. and I could have gotten 3 more before I got into the Martin range. Couldn’t be happier with it.
BishopDelicious same. I just got mine today and wow! I can tell I will be writing a lot of songs on this thing
Michael Martinez Congrats Michael, I think you’ll really love it. Beyond playing and sounding great, it records beautifully. Throw a small diaphragm condenser or two up (in my case usually a pair of Rode M2, maybe a Bluebird)... she sings. Happy strumming.
We live in a period of amazingly affordable guitars. I just got an Eastman E2D-CD. Cedar Top/Sapele back/sides. Booms like a cannon, & very sweet top end. $509 - but I have to warn players - cheaper guitar makers will Scrimp on 2 things: finish fret work, and tuners. If you know how to perform fretwork, and replace tuners, you’re in like Flynn.
I love it that the clock in the background shows this show started at 4:20.
You sir can flat out pick!! I enjoyed the comparison and yes, my next acoustic will be an Alvarez! (I bought one back in '87. It was my best buddy but literally destroyed by a "friend" of mine in '04. I still can't bring myself to throw what's left of it away!)
You’ve got a great channel JP...one of the best on the net!
I've had my Korean made Alvarez PD80SC-nat since 2000 so 21 years, by far my favorite instrument. I've also owned one of the newer Alvarez Chinese made models, simply not the same. Yairi was one of the finest luthiers in my opinion and it shows. I bought my Martin OMCPA4 rosewood in 2014. I love the Martin sound, and warmth. But I will always go back to my Alvarez
Amen Brotha, 2000/2001 was the first year(s) that I discovered Alvarez as a hidden gem too and I've never looked back. My dad has a really nice Martin HD28 that I've strummed on from time to time and it's a great sounding guitar in its own rite, but I'm always finding my ear to be more drawn to the tones that my 6-string Artist and my 12-string Yairi produce. It's also worth mentioning that for every Alvarez Artist purchased you're not just getting a great deal due to the free student labor; you're contributing to the education of the next generation of Luthiers which is important because it's becoming a lost art in many areas in the world.
I really miss the Avlarez PD line. It was the best idea ever in acoustic guitars. Amazing for gigging.
Alvarez update. Took the guitar back to GC and they gave me a replacement. I love this Blue Grass model.
Some words from an old fingerpicker from Maine. Years ago, when I was in my 20’s c. 1984, I went in to lay down the big bucks and buy a D-28 or D-35. What the sales guy did - it turned out, I could only, likely afford a D-18 0r 28 at most - he pointed me to an old competitor of C.F. Martin, the Washburn instrument co. They worked with a family of Japanese Luthiers, the infamous Yamaki family, were still handmaking Washburns at a price far, far below Martins, still in Narazeth PA prices. I picked up this handmade dreadnought and was simply blown away at the sound and electric guitar-like action. I paid a mere 850 for this beaut. Rosewood sides, sitka top and 3 piece back and all with maple binding. The bottom braces are hand-chiseled to thin pyramids. It is this fine detail that I believe blew away all the Martins, back in 84. If you can find an old Washburn D68 Harvest withthe handmade wood piece where the sticker normally is - grab it. I don’t believe Yamakis like these are made anymore! -Steve
Great videos J.P.! I just purchased the Alvarez GYM70CESHB Yairi and can't wait to get my hands on it. There was something calling me to own an Alvarez, and this model stood out for me, an investment for sure, but quality lasts forever. My 1988 PRS told me that. 🙂
this is my 2nd listening on the comparison of the Martin and Alvarez there was quite a difference for me. Listening again to this. The Alvarez really sounds much more up front and sharp then in the last you tube. like it did keep up with the Martin. I would not hesitate to play that Alvarez any where. I love my guild d50 from 1973. But I have a guild d46 Ash with the Rosewood center down the back which is unlike any other guitar I have played. very heavy and Aggressive.. My Yairi DY61 is a favorite to.. next purchase?.. That Alvarez Bluegrass.. Thanks for Mentioning PICKS.. they really can be the whole diff. in sound.
It was an interesting topic that I have had with others for years. Yes it is easy to tell the Martin from the Alvarez, sadly its no justification for the price difference. Alvarez is an amazing guitar company that offers a little something for everyone without a crazy price tag attached. For the players man, not the profiteers.
100 percent agree with your comments….. there is no justification for the price difference as they are both factory produced guitars now. That was not always the case with Martins. But I find it interesting that almost every manufacturer still uses Martin as their standard of comparison when hawking their brand.
Huge fan of JP Cormier !
Well, somewhat agree, however, some factories pay, what? 19 cents an hour? See the difference now?
@@kirkhilts3996 it's the American way. I Gotta hit them quotas. Need that bonus. So hell yea I got an overseas underage sweat shop. Hell beautiful plan works for Mr Nike Phil mtf Knight. He is a baller.LMAO... Peace
After seeing this video. I was looking around and came across an Alvarez md60bg, and yes after playing I broke out the check book and bought it. I was hook after playing basic chords and the esthetics are superb, it’s like the guitar Gods pointed me your way towards this fine guitar. Awesome guitar.
Hi John, it's Don here from Hamilton NZ, on my Wife's tablet, Iv'e just gotta say thank you for explaining the way you do on this 'NAME ' thing most guitarists have going on in our minds, l haven't got the money ( a beautiful Wife an' 6 kids kept it that way) but I'm retired now and love my acoustic guitar's ( 7 ) I can't read music but one thing I do know, I know a good guitar when I hear it, and in my time Iv'e played my share, and found what you're saying is SO TRUE. Thanks for your videos, Iv'e Subscribed and look forward to some more, take care now, Don from Hamilton New Zealand signing off
After playing Martins all my life I became the owner of a '64 Gibson J50. Wow what an amazing guitar! I could hear tones I'd never heard a from a guitar - lots of mids and clear loud ringing highs.
Hard drivin, poundin, poppin, banjo killin’ rhythm!!! Love it!!!
I just found this today. I picked the Martin for #1. It was there from the start when the comparison came up. I must say that the Alvarez might have fooled me if you had played it first. It sounded a little muffled in the beginning. The longer you played it the greater it sounded. Having said that I bet you'd make a 60s Silvertone (my first acoustic guitar) sound great the way you play. I have seen you play many Yamahas on CZcams. I have always said Yamaha is hard to beat for the money. I have owned 5 Martins..2 D28s hated the first, loved the second, 1 D12-35, 1 OM18v, and currently a D18-GE which is the best of them all. I've also owned 3 Taylors.. 1 Dan Crary, 1 615, and 1 512. The 512 was my favorite. I've also owned 9 Larrivees and loved all of them. I have a 2000 Morgan DR that I bought at Jerry Vale's shop in St. Stephen NB that I love. I'm just a strummer, but I love guitars and have a very understanding wife (God bless her!!!) I really liked that Boucher.
I had a shot with a £390 Alvarez last year..... one of the most beautifully braced tops I've ever played.
Beautiful presentation....
In my experience I’ve been favoring a standard X braced dreadnought design. I’ve owned a 1958 D-28 with standard X bracing and non scalloped braces for many years, and it has a more balanced and even voice compared to a forward shifted/pre war style design dreadnought. Louder doesn’t necessarily mean better, a lawnmower is loud too. Love watching your videos. Thank you.
Wise words, stumbled across you as I’m in search of ‘thee’ guitar, and I think you’ve just sold me an Alvarez md60! Great videos, and you seem lovely too! Xx
I know I’m 3 years late to the party. But I’m getting my first “good” acoustic in the next couple of months. Have had a couple of real cheap acoustics over the years. Mostly played electric all my life. I have wanted an HD-35 for several years. Recently discovered the Alvarez bluegrass models. Have been debating. I know it’s moot until I play both side by side. I thought #1 in the previous video sounded maybe 3% better than guitar #2. The Martin just had a smidgeon more clarity to my ear and a little something to it that I can’t put my finger on. The question is… am I willing to pay 300% more for 3% more sound, and worry 300% more when taking it out to a gig or a campfire jam? Nope.
JP, I'm a new follower and subscriber on your channel. I really like the content you have channel wide. I found you through the FGX5 review as I'm a long time Red Label Guy and hope to get one of the new ones eventually, but in the meantime I picked up a used MD60BG a few days ago based on these Martin Vs. Alvarez videos. So far I really like it.
I live in Alabama and you and I are the same age. So we have a few things in common but I just wish I could play 1/3 as good as you!
Keep Truckin'
🇺🇸🚛JW🚛🇺🇸
I've got a 31 yr old Alverez Yairi DY77. I'll never sell it. I've never had to adjust the truss rod and the action is still low and fast. Great guitars!
J.P. I myself own a Martin D 28 bought in 1975 by my Mother, I am an avid Martin lover supporter I like everything about Martin however recently my wife gave me a choice between a Martin D15m or an Alvarez MD60NG the Martin was 1200.00 I walked out of the store with the Alvarez for 550.00 and it sounds like the old Martin D28 and it took years of aging for that to happen so I now have a new Alvarez I love
I got an Alvarez AD66SHB mahogany top guitar last Fall and I swear it rings and rings like nobody's business.
I keep coming back to this video. I am looking at Alvarez VS Washburn. Just like the Alvarez acoustics you can get great sounding Washburns at less than half the price of Martin or Taylor. But after listening to you on the Alvarez again. I think I'm getting another Alvarez. The one I have is all solid mahogany, with beautiful finger picking tones. Looking at AA Sitka spruce top with Macassar ebony back and sides. Thanks you so much for sharing your ear and knowledge of acoustics.
I love Washburn guitars and always have but they are no comparison to the handcrafted Luther work and detail that Alvarez has . 80 percent of Washburn guitars are made using laminate of some sort. They haven't really stepped it up in the last 20yrs as far as bringing back authentic pre war guitars that's where it's at. These days
Great video! I have an Alvarez Yairi DY-74C, and a Martin D18V. I love them both... but that Yairi keeps calling me back to play her.
I bought my WY-1 1991 and it´s made 1991 and I still love it. My dream acoustic was always Gibson J-200 but after trying several of them I stick with my Yairy till the end❤️❤️❤️❤️🎸🎸🎸
I too was going to buy a Gibson (J45 or L45) in the early 90's when I ran into a Yairi YM-1. After a few minutes of playing it I lost track of time. In an hour or two I took it home. It got destroyed by an airline 12 years ago, but since then I got a few other Yairi guitars and they'll all be with me to the end. ...And funny, a Japanese friend of mine has a J-200 that I did some work on --> yeah, the Yairi guitars just sound and play better.
Try a Guild F55
I’ve been so back and forth between Eastman, recording king, blue ridge and Alvarez . This video has my mind at ease. Thank you JP!
I think Eastman, Recording King and Alvarez share Cort DNA.
Saw JP at the Indian River Music fest in PEI a few years ago. Totally blown away. Would like to see him again but he'll have to come to southwestern Ontario. I'd like to see JP and Bruce Cockburn tour together. I'd follow them like a hound on a rabbit.
Your playing is fantastic and is what is making all 3 of these instruments sing.
I went with my daughter to take her brass instrument into the local music store for new pads and a once over. This particular store was obviously a dealer for Alvarez guitars. Beautiful guitars adorned the walls of the store. I was not familiar with this particular guitar, but now that I have watched several of your videos, I will go back to that store and take one of those guitars off the wall and into a practice room for a closer and serious look over. Thank you for your videos. They are the most informative.
Alvarez AG75ce owner here. I’ve owned some guitars in my days, and this is probably my favourite acoustic. Not saying it’s the best or most expensive obviously, there’s just something about the overall package of feel, sound and playability that makes me pick it up off the rack when I go unplugged
I own a Alvarez Dove Model 5024 made in 1/11/1978, the guitar sounds absolutely amazing. Just ordered a Alvarez AGFM80CEAR Artist Elite Grand Auditorium. Not shipping until the end of Oct. It's going to be a long month (lol) You really can't go wrong with Alvarez. Lots and lots of bang for the buck...
Alverez it's doing a great job and it's allowing a lot of people who can't afford a Martin the chance to get a quality guitar for a fraction of the price. And the Alvarez MD60BG is an all solid wood guitar. There are no laminates in this guitar. They do offer cheaper guitars that are laminates but the MD60BG is not one of their laminated guitars.
You do awesome videos Sir.
Awesome videos!! I told my wife #1 was the Martin as soon as you strummed it but… that is the guitar of guitar. For that Alvarez to compare to that classic says something about it. I’ll be purchasing an Alvarez this week 👍
Wow!! you play very very nice I like the sound and your guitars especially that alvarez am looking into upgrading that same model love the fullness
Both really great sounding guitars I'm not a huge fan of the d28 martin though I love the d18 and have one, I prefer the mahogany on the d18 to the rosewood on the d28 sounds more controlled to my ear and warmer, perhaps why I like the sound of the Alvarez in your demo.
If you like a great mahogany sound check out his video of the Alvarez 60 HD. I Love that one
You’re a fantastic player I preferred the Martin above the Alvarez but the Alvarez was still amazing. Thanks,helpful and informative 👍
I have three Alvarez, from a low end model (for camping - RD 8) to a moderate one (DY 48) to a DY 40 with the direct coupled bridge. Like playing them ALL!
I love the sound of the Alvarez! Of course I'm partial, since I have one! Lol Mine is a classical, but it, too, has fantastic sound. Yours sounds awesome! Love it!
Alvarez vs Yamaha... next....best bang for the dollar acoustic guitars today...
Where do you feel Eastman lays in this debate?
What Gauge strings are you running on the Alvarez in this video JP? I know the MD60BG comes with 12s from the factory
JP the spirit Orb's flying around your workshop enjoying your incredible playing!!! Ha! Ha!
I actually liked the Alvarez in the blind comparison!.... and, I've owned high end Martins (still do) high end Gibsons (still do), Taylor, Gurian, Yamaha (L series), Eastman... on and on and on (currently 18 guitars!). I've been thinking about getting an Alvarez , mainly due to the price point, and what I've been seeing on YT comparisons.
Okay, the recording King is hands down the best sounding! Beautiful!
Thank you so much for this video, and for your knowledge, experience and musical judgment. I've played a Martin 000-18 all my life, and I'm now looking to buy a parlor guitar. I'm considering Martin vs. Alvarez. This was very helpful!
I was so insanely happy to come across this video! I bought that same model of Alvarez about a year ago, and it's the best money I've ever spent in an instrument! I would put either of my Alvarez acoustics, either the MD60EBG or my Yairi DY62c, up against any Martin or Taylor any day... and do it proudly! Talking about strings... have you tried Martin's Lifespan phosphor-bronze strings? I like them better than Elixir strings. Elixirs are great sounding, but I could never get used to that slick feel. The Lifespan strings are coated but it's much thinner (than the Elixirs) and that great "new string" tone lasts like the Elixirs! I can't brag on them enough
Great channel j.p. and I like your honest " not up yourself" attitude. Greeting from the "land down under'...!
So, which one do you like better? The Alvarez or the Recording King?
Well JP since Ive watched your guitars Ive narrowed my choice to about thirteen or twenty. I may get really old and crust up before I pick one.
Haha, in the same position. Looking for my first 'serious' guitar.. On the plus.. the longer we spend deciding, the better we get, right?
Wow ALVAREZ!! WOW BOUCHER!! thanks JP from the TN central Cumberland Highlands I don't get to travel to stores much and your presentations are being very helpful!
That Alverez sounded more like a Martin than the real Martin did! Never underestimate the Japanese Luthiers!
Where can you buy Alvarez in Canada.
And let’s not forget their cars 😉
i have always said that they are way under appreciated , i have nothing but japan guitars, and have owned many usa ( fender, gibson, ) and i have to say some of mine surpass usa models easily.. love my japan geee-tars
@@D60Larrivee In Montreal I know www.muziqmarket.com/us/ is a Alvarez dealer
never seen that second one's logo on head in Japan...
Is that really Japanese Alvarez Yairi?
I would be happy owning any of these beauties. The Boucher was far and away the best of the three. The Martin was my second choice, but I think this is just a personal preference. Was the Martin muddy or did it have more warmth? Probably both. Unfortunately, it does lose a little bit on the top end. Working with the temperament on Martins can take a little more time to get all the intervals sounding right, but I think there is almost a chorusing type effect of the intervals being a few cents out here and there that adds an earthy sweetness. If something is too perfectly tempered, it's almost as though it loses a bit character (to my ear). However, If I were to be playing with other guitarists, it's not unlikely that I would choose the Alvarez for reasons on the other side of this same coin. In a group, I might want my instrument to be tempered a little more exactly because of the interaction with other instruments. I hope this all makes sense. Thanks for such a great video!!
Well, sir, I got ‘em wrong. Thank you for schooling me. I am contemplating selling my 20yr-old taylor 310CE to pick up an alvarez md350.
You are a awesome guitarist
Hey man. I loooooved this video. Not flashy. Commercialized. But thorough. And real. Thank you sir. God bless you
Great video. I have a Korean made Fender, 30 years old now, and it has aged very well. Cheap guitar, but one I can play by the camp fire as well as the house. I also have a 30 year Fender 12 string that bring so much joy. My son has a Taylor, and it is sweet as well. Thanks for sharing.
Sas the alveraz the 1st one
Cool thanks John, I'm going to have a look and play on one tomorrow...the MD70EBG, I'm looking forward to it :-)
I just recently discovered You and your videos, love them all !!!
I just got my first Alvarez it’s an AGE910 which I paid $449 for, and let me tell you this I was astounded at first strum. This guitar stands up to my Gibson’s, Taylor’s, and Martin’s which are 5X the price. It punches way above its weight. Let me assure you it won’t be my last I have my eye on purchasing a Yairi DYMR70SB and after my first Alvarez I am hooked. It’s unreal to me that they can produced a $450 guitar that I think any professional could gig. I’m 68 and been playing since I was 12 I have played some outstanding instruments, but this guitar I got was on another level. I can’t wait to get my hands on a Yairi.