small body for strumming

jpbrooks · #1 08-21-2016, 08:36 PM

I'm looking to get a small body guitar to compliment my Gibson J-35. I love the Gibson, just want something a little more comfortable to hold when playing sitting down.

I mostly strum, although I am really working on improving my flat picking and finger picking these days.

I want something smaller, but that still has a full sound. I know it won't have a huge bass response, but I want a full, live sound when strummed.

I have played Taylor x12 guitars that I really like and a I really like a Martin 000-28 that I was able to play recently.

I definitely want a short scale, 24.75 or 24.9. I prefer a little narrower nut like my Gibson or even a 1 11/16, but I can adapt to 1 3/4 nut.

Max Budget is $1500

bobernet · #2 08-21-2016, 09:05 PM

There's a nice 000-28 in the classifieds here, right about your price range.

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picassov7 · #3 08-21-2016, 10:09 PM

Might check out some of the Gibson LG-2's if you like that Gibson sound, neck, etc. and want a smaller body. Mine handles strumming pretty well, although, it has more of a direct, punchy sound compared to some guitars that envelope you in sound. Mine is all mahogany though, so that probably plays a part.

pjroberts · #4 08-21-2016, 10:23 PM

I would look for a remake of the Gibson Nick Lucas (deep body L-00 kind of with 12-14 frets depending on which maker/model). Especially since you obviously like your Gibby - this is the model that Dylan used on some of his earliest recordings. Gibson makes reissues sometimes I think, and then it's a popular shape for boutique builders for the reasons you list and others ... I have an SC take on it, the H-13, which I love and will never part with. But there are more affordable options, and of course used (I got mine used, but it was a bit over $1500).

Recording King has made a few models in this shape, including the RNJ-25. Additionally, Halcyon (Ed Bond who hangs here sometimes) seems to do well with their version in multiple flavors, starting within your price range. I think there may be one or two Halcyon's in classified if you can't wait 6-8 months -- and also check out Ed's dealers in the Pacific Northwest. If I was looking for this model, I think I would contact him first unless I really wanted the Gibson sound.

Also, take a look at some of the other deep bodied OMs and 000s. You could definitely score a nice Eastman or Blueridge that might fit your requirements for well under your budget, while playing way above their $$ class. I particularly like the smaller Eastmans and their OM.

Zhoken · #5 08-21-2016, 10:30 PM

I'm a huge fan of mahogany guitars and can't say enough good things about the 000-15m. For a smaller body (than a dread) guitar it has great depth and low end. Plus it's relatively affordable, depending on your budget.

Best of luck in your search!

flaggerphil · #6 08-21-2016, 11:29 PM

I like the Taylor 322s. Great full tone for a small body.

donh · #7 08-22-2016, 12:00 AM

Call Ted at LA Guitars, tell him to sell you a Rainsong P12SA.

That puppy is a monster, fits your budget, and can handle anything you throw at it.

SalFromChatham · #8 08-22-2016, 03:59 AM

The Gibson LG2 American Eagles are awesome guitars. They strum well, finger style well, and are a great comfortable size.

I also think the CEO7s do it all. I'd own one except I find the neck a bit much.

$1500 gets you close to a used CEO7.

$1150 gets you close to a used LG2-AE.

Zidius · #9 08-22-2016, 04:12 AM

I like 00-18v

JakeStone · #10 08-22-2016, 04:33 AM

$1500 bucks gets you a used Martin 000-18 (try a 2012 or newer which has some enhancements over the older ones).

Mine has it all... tone and volume wise,.. Excellent bass and really well balanced tone.

So lightweight and easy to hold/play. Short scale 000 with 1 3/4 nut. Neck is the new mod low oval.. so it should be easy to handle. I have one and love it!

bitraker · #11 08-22-2016, 05:57 AM

see PM...............................................

There's a nice 000-28 in the classifieds here, right about your price range.

absolutely - see link below

gorgeous 000-28 - surprised it is still around

jpbrooks · #12 08-22-2016, 05:59 AM

Thanks for the responses. I have thought a lot about the LG-2 AE, but I'm thinking I want something that will be a little different from my J-35. I would love an LG-2 with Rosewood back and sides. Unless I am wrong, I don't think they make one though.

I have definitely been eyeing the 000-18. Hard to find one in my budget though.

Any thoughts on the new 000-17. It has scalloped standard X bracing like the 18.

I have tried the Taylor 322 and it is great and is definitely on my list. I haven't been able to try one, but the 412r is pretty tempting as well.

bitraker · #13 08-22-2016, 06:02 AM

000-28 is not great for flat picking, neither is the 000-18, unless you like short necks, JMHO

I am a flat picker - I prefer dreads with long necks

riverrummed · #14 08-22-2016, 08:03 AM

The only rosewood LG-2 style guitar that I know of is an Eastman E15-SS and Ted at LA Guitar sales has one. I own an ET5-SS which is an experimental forerunner to the series and has an adirondack top with mahogany back and sides. Lots of headroom with Adi and mine handles strumming no problem. Many have wanted to buy mine but I can't part with it I like it so much.

SKYHIGH · #15 08-22-2016, 08:08 AM

Don't go too small. I would stay OM size. I got Eastman E10OM which is great small body for strumming.