Remirez Guitars - Do you own one?

[Pepe Vergara]

How many of you own Ramirez guitars? Anyway from 1a, 2a, student models, etc. Just to get an idea of the feeling for those guitars. Also, tell us if you would like to have one above anything, or if you had the money, would you buy one Ramirez, or would you go to a Ruck, Conde, Hauser, etc? Hey, the forum is slow, what is happening? The summer is here already? Wow!

[de camara]

The greatest guitar I have ever played sound wise, and playbility wise was a 71' 1a Ramirez.
As in all guitars, they are all well built.
There will always be the flukes of nature , if you will.
The ones that are the golden guitars.
Even when attempted to be duplicated by the builders themselves, they don't always sound or feel the same.
Some of the best built but "lesser" sounding guitars were the most expensive yet poorest sounding collectable guitars around from other VERY well known luthiers.
Players will always demand playability and sound above all else.
Yet collectors will settle for nothing less than a pristine example.
For me, the old world spanish sound is where its at.
and massive volume has been achieved in many other master guitars, but has never preserved the beauty and depth of the old world sound.
Alot of the "sense" of the original spanish sound has been lost in time.
And like many of the arts, has suffered in todays lack of cultivation from an early age.

Just one mans wisdom.

[daniel711]

Well I just sold my '86 1a which I hadn't really played in about 5 or 6 years. It was the first real concert guitar that I owned, and in the beginning I thought it was the holy grail. But I now lean towards the more innovative designs, which have begun to solve the problems of volume and sustain, without sacrificing quality. In a nutshell, the Ramirez is a very nice nostalgic guitar, but I believe that lutherie has outgrown them.

[Miguel Angel]

Hi Pepe
I have a 2002 Ramírez R4, which is an all solid woods student model. An excellent guitar with a good volume, rich sound, feeling & craftmanship. To upgrade it I would go for a 1A. :wink: :arrow:

[Pepe Vergara]

What scale do you prefer inthe Ramirez guitars? 650 mm, 664, 670, etc?

[de camara]

664/52 for sure!

with the tapered fingerboard.

[DFL]

You're right Pepe, a Ramirez thread would usually be on page 8 about now. :lol:

I wouldn't buy a student model because I think you can get a better bang for the buck.

If I could have one and only one high end guitar it probably wouldn't be a 1a, especially if you're putting them in the class of Hauser, Ruck, etc.

If I could afford a nice collection of guitars it would inevitably have to include a Ramirez as much for historical reasons as for that big Madrid sound.

[de camara]

Since I have some experience with this.

I have always throughout the years felt that the great Ramirez guitars, that NO ONE is gonna give up!
Have been horded, and with ALL the AVAILABLE examples that I have seen/played, and yes including many finely built A.M. P.B. M.T. and others have NO bearing on how the guitar will sound!
Yes, they are quite collectable, but lack the "it" quality for sound.
not saying they don't sound good, just not the same as the best ones.
The guitars that Segovia played like he 67' Ramirez III M.T. and his 37' Hauser were in a whole different class by themselves.
The thing you CANNOT explain to people no matter how well versed you believe you are with words, is that the "technique/s" that Segovia and Parkening have mastered are crucial in activating the inner qualities of these guitars.
Don't believe me, I an think of a famous story of a guitar that Llobet owned (Torres) that a doctor named Ramauge virtually BEGGED him for it to gain that golden sound for himeself!
Sadly it was not to be, due to the fact that he did NOT possess the skill that was required to activate its true beauty!
Much the same can be said about the finest violins.
sadly, these guitars can only grow with proper playing, or will not progress any further than they have.
And no, if it was NOT a great guitar to start with, it can't be "forced" into this capacity.
Now, I can easily write a book regarding this subject.
Shoot holes in this as you so choose, but many, many years of experience cannot be swayed by doubt!

[daniel711]

Posted by de Camara:
sadly, these guitars can only grow with proper playing, or will not progress any further than they have.
Oh come on, are you trying to say that you need a great player to "grow" a great guitar!!?? So if I lent my guitar to John Williams for a year it would come back a better guitar (assuming he played it)?? Do you talk to your plants, too?

[Zak]

The first guitar I bought that was worth more than $20 was a Ramirez R1. It was good for the level I was at, at the time.

Now, I have heard many Ramirez guitars that sound wonderful. My first teacher had a '66 high end model that sang.

However, I find them to be fairly over rated these days. They are expensive, particularly for one that's hand crafted by a single person (which is rare in this modern age). For the same money, you can get a lot more guitar from a good private luthier.

Furthermore, it seems like the Ramirezes I have tried are somewhat difficult to play...sure a good player can handle it, but he shouldn't have to for the huge pricetag.

[vcs700s]

Do I own a Ramirez guitar? No. :cry: Would I like to? You bet. :lol:

I played a 4E a few weeks ago. It was the best sounding classical guitar in the store! Someday I hope to have one. I am thinking the 4E or the SP-C.

[dbeau]

I own/play a '71 1a that has beautiful sound. It is a 664 that I requires 'stretch' for my hand size. As I progress in my abilities (playing 2 years now w/teacher) both the sound and reach problems are improving to the point that I can't wait to play each night.

Being fickle, I have entertained owning a smaller guitar of equivalent, or better, sound/quality. So far, the ones I've tried haven't had the beauty of sound of the one I have. I'll probably never stop searching and if/when I find one as good that is easier to play - I'll buy it BUT NEVER let go of this Ramirez.

[selma600]

I have one of th student models, an AE...I think it is at least partially a factory product. But it is gorgeous as to sound! THe more I play it, the more it "opens up" and leaves me breathless sometimes! "Gosh, ***I*** made THAT sound???" As I have learned more, I think I probably could have gotten more bang for my bucks, but I really love it.
I agree that it is a little more difficult to play, especially when barre-ing, but I have finally gotten used to that. It seems to me that the fretboard is a tad wider than some others? Is that just my imagination? AM I too lazy to go get the calipers, etc?...yeah, I am.
It's worth the price, and I get a little zing out of just owning a Ramirez, and, as I get my skills back, I might trade "up" before my year is out, but, on the other hand, this one is one I can live with for a long time!
Well, I have done all the procrastinating I can...I have to go practice keyboard skills and have to kind of chain myself to the piano stool to get it done!

[de camara]

Posted by de Camara:
sadly, these guitars can only grow with proper playing, or will not progress any further than they have.
Oh come on, are you trying to say that you need a great player to "grow" a great guitar!!?? So if I lent my guitar to John Williams for a year it would come back a better guitar (assuming he played it)?? Do you talk to your plants, too?

hahaha!
Nice one there.
It is well known that all stringed instruments can/will improve when played well.
If you believe that your guitar is needing the likes of a John Williams!
I say sell it now! and buy something better!

I am not always amused when we are ill informed, or experienced in being priveledged to know some of the more elemental aspects of guitars, and playing. But perhaps through some enlightenment, we can all benefit from such a thread?????
Beats re-inventing the wheel!
And to be quite honest with you all, I am quite irritated that the originality of the art has fallen to more obscure levels in todays society.
Some of the "gifted" few have gone on long enough keeping better information from the current family of aspiring musicians/guitarists.
And so many myths have grown in its midst.
I don't claim to know much of anything, but have been lucky enought to have been shown a few things in my time!
For the sake of Pepe's thread, lets see where we can go with this subject, to assist him in his curiosities as a luthier.

[MegaBrawn]

This is an interesting topic. I am quite keen to find out how much weight the Ramirez name still holds.

I have played two Ramirezes so far. An 1a made during the 70s and the modern day SP.I liked the 1a alot. But to be honest, I would not buy a Ramirez if I had the money. Maybe a Marin or a Bernabe but not a Ramirez.

If money wasn't an issue I'd buy all the 'great' guitars out there, but somehow I don't think that's what your asking...

[Thomas]

I have a '69 ramirez MM with a 13 year old Ruck top. I've had it for about a year and I love it. It is, of course, a 664 and I've found I prefer the long scale, especially during high passages as it gives a little more room. The top is a ramirez bracing, but Ruck put it on. It has the same great tone and sound that the Ramirez guitars are famous for, and lots of volume. I haven't played or heard any guitar that I liked more than a Ramirez.

[vcs700s]

This is an interesting topic. I am quite keen to find out how much weight the Ramirez name still holds.

I have played two Ramirezes so far. An 1a made during the 70s and the modern day SP.I liked the 1a alot. But to be honest, I would not buy a Ramirez if I had the money. Maybe a Marin or a Bernabe but not a Ramirez.

If money wasn't an issue I'd buy all the 'great' guitars out there, but somehow I don't think that's what your asking...

How about a review of the SP? Was it the spruce or cedar top? I am thinking about buying one in the future and would love to hear your thoughts on it- playability and sound etc.

[nikpearson]

I play a 1962 Ramirez 1A (MT) Spruce/Brazilian. It's certainly a great instrument, but if money were no object I reckon I'd have a new Kevin Aram. I tend to agree with an earlier post that some of the more innovative guitars posess volume at the expense of tone, but maybe I'm just used to that old Ramirez sound.

[de camara]

The guitar has always had an entrancing spell about its charm.
It is what caused us to become the guitar lovers we all are.
Segovia, Llobet, Presti, Lagoya, Parkening have all had the natural born ability to conjure these spells within the guitars charm, and hold us spellbound in its midst.
There are a few schools of beliefs regarding what constitutes an astute player.
Some think fast loud flawless playing is what the guitar should be.
Its a techicians point of view.
And the old school aspect was always a very artistic aproach that was filled with brushstrokes of emotion, depth, and life.
Like a fine painting , or a fine wine, its very complex, and captivating.
And has always had a long term lasting effect on the listener.
Some things are once in a lifetime.
But to squander these acheivements in thier triumphant greatness, is like taking a fine bottle of aged brandy, and using it as carburetor cleaner!
Its an acquired taste to even apreciate its true worth, and must be carried on to aspiring luthiers, guitarists, and musicians alike for the future to remain bright!

[Jubilee Valence]

...I always wondered what MischaZ would sound like with a Spanish accent!....uncanny!.....Jefe don Pepe!--mi R1....AHA! TORO!...OK, it's 650/52....wide...compared to the ol' blanca which is 50mm....contrary to what you may have heard, was a bargain-lucky purchase-& historically, my first post that anybody ever pulled contained that magic #....She is a cannon!--yet!....tears and sighs will be coaxed out of her....from her low saddle, she mocks & laughs and dances & spins around her neighbors! with neverceasing torrents and cascades!-and.....never forget!--like the cat!-she may toy with her friends,floundering stumbling! pulling them in for her coup d' grace...RASQUEDOS!!!.....GOLPE!!!!! Epilogue pt I:she,confident with her master, has the certain eye towards a bold, wizened caballero! :wink: ...a renegade? :twisted: outlaw perhaps? :twisted: ........stay tuned....... :twisted:

[MegaBrawn]

This is an interesting topic. I am quite keen to find out how much weight the Ramirez name still holds.

I have played two Ramirezes so far. An 1a made during the 70s and the modern day SP.I liked the 1a alot. But to be honest, I would not buy a Ramirez if I had the money. Maybe a Marin or a Bernabe but not a Ramirez.

If money wasn't an issue I'd buy all the 'great' guitars out there, but somehow I don't think that's what your asking...

How about a review of the SP? Was it the spruce or cedar top? I am thinking about buying one in the future and would love to hear your thoughts on it- playability and sound etc.

Too be honest with you, I had not spent alot of time with the SP.I played it for about 30minutes. I won't be so presumptious to launch myself into a full review but here are my comments:

I found the SP to be a fairly playable instrument. The thickness of the fret board allowed for a reasonably fast fret board. I felt that the playablity was acceptable for the price. Acceptable but nothing special.

The SP I tried was a spruce top that offered a great deal of clarity and pretty good balance between the bass and trelbes. I felt that the SP does not have that typically bold or "heavy" sound that characterizes most Spanish handmade instruments. In terms of volume, I felt that the SP could be played in a pretty small auditorium of perhaps up to 400 people.

The materials used for the instrument and worksmanship were what I would expect for the price. Once again, nothing outstanding.I hate the new SP label by the way.

In closing I would like to say that I found the SP to be an extremely medicore instrument. Perhaps if I had a second shot at the instrument I would have a stronger opinion, but nothing in particular impressed me the first time I laid my hands on it. Playing the SP made me realize what guitarists mean when they say, "They don't make Ramirezs like they used to". It's hard to believe that Ramirez would produce such an average instrument. I think there are better options out there for the money. But that's my humble opinion. Take it for what you will.

[MWA]

I don't think Ramirez actually makes the SP, just the 1a and above. Correct me if I am wrong. Most of the Ramirez line is made by other shops/factories. I would like to know how many of the current big names actually make their instruments and if so which model.

Another question comes to mind. I bought a Ramirez student model in 1980 and at that time they only had 3 student models. How many do they have now and how many do they need?

[vcs700s]

MegaBrawn,

Thanks for the SP review. Considering the price range of the SP. let's say around $4K, could you give some suggestions for a better classical guitar that would be a better value? It certainly can cost less than the SP if you like.

I appreciate your insights.

[C. Vega]

The SP line is made for Ramirez by Amalio Burguet in Catarroja (Valencia) and I believe that Burguet also makes the FL-2 flamenco for them.

As to the Spanish "big names" (and some not so big names) and what they actually make, you can usually safely bet that any of the "estudio" or "conservatorio" models or guitars labeled "Guitarreria" or something similar are going to be factory models no matter whose name is on them though with some "makers" the smokescreen is so thick that it's hard to know who even makes their top models.

Contreras, for example, makes the N-series (2a) and up guitars in his own shop in Madrid but freely admits that the C-series classicals and the student level flamenco models he offers come from two different factories. I believe he also uses Burguet as well as Vicente Sanchis Badia.

[Axel]

I own, or I guess I should say owned a Ramirez 1E 2000. The auction will expire in about an hour http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=621&item=7333264584&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

Personally I was very pleased with it. I used it in my recitals in school and it generally served me well.
I just finished playing with it and I know I'm gonna miss it alot. The only reason I am selling it is because I bought a new concert level guitar and am very interested in flamenco, so I figured I'd sell it and buy a flamenco. Also, it seemed pretty silly of me to not let it be put to good use since I'll hardly ever use it.
The one thing I like about it better than my current guitar is the eveness of the sound. My new guitar has some really loud basses which can be nice, but for some music I like things to sound nice and even.

[Jonny Hotnuts]

I have had my Indian 81 1a for about a year, just bought a 71 Brazilian 1a a few days ago.

Really like my Rams, do aspire to have a Jeff Elliot once he starts taking orders again (in the 10-15K range...ouch!)

[selma600]

well, see my posts about my trade-up to the "de camera" 1984.
The DC plays beautifully - the sound is crisp but warm and resonant at the same time. The notes stay perfectly in pitch until the last little bit of decay, but, even then, the needle on my sensor wobbles only slightly. To say it "plays itself" is almost not an exaggeration.
Slightly heavier, due to the "shelf" under the soundboard.
The action is smooth.
It has to be the best instrument ***I*** have ever personally experienced and I am blown away that I OWN the thing! I stayed up all night last night playing it and only went to bed around 4 this morning. When I finiish drinking my coffee and get my butt outta the bed, I am going to start playing it some more.
Interesting thing is that I have slowed down on everything I am playing/learning (a very good thing) because I am listening to the delicious tones I'm making. This is also a VERY good thing!!!

[Faya]

i used ta.............but....................i didn't like it very much so i sold it....... 8)

[Jubilee Valence]

.............I am listening to the delicious tones I'm making. This is also a VERY good thing!!! :shock: ...Isn't THAT JUST THE SWEETEST LI'L OL' CO-IN-CI-DENCE...???? :twisted: -I've often l-o-o-o-n-g-e-d to "hear" those very same delicious tones.... :twisted: --My Goodness!!! My Graciousness!....... :twisted: **"Izznt that NICE?"--(**you know that one-don't'cha?) :wink:

[Marion]

Yet another posting from a Ramirez lover :)

'de camara' put into words how I feel about my Ramirez. I also agree with his/her description of what makes the perfect sound of a guitar. Thanks for the wonderful comments, 'de camara'.

My experience with my Ramirez is that even with the additional bass strings and thus with more volume, the sound remains beautifully balanced. The sound of a high quality Ramirez has a lot of warmth, power and feeling to it. The cheaper ones can have a tendency to being a bit dominant on the bass, though. I'd never go for a cheap one. It's a matter of taste, but I'm so happy with my guitar I think I'll stick to Ramirez guitars. It comes closest to what I believe is 'the true sound of a guitar'.

[selma600]

Yet another posting from a Ramirez lover :)

'de camara' put into words how I feel about my Ramirez. I also agree with his/her description of what makes the perfect sound of a guitar. Thanks for the wonderful comments, 'de camara'.

My experience with my Ramirez is that even with the additional bass strings and thus with more volume, the sound remains beautifully balanced. The sound of a high quality Ramirez has a lot of warmth, power and feeling to it. The cheaper ones can have a tendency to being a bit dominant on the bass, though. I'd never go for a cheap one. It's a matter of taste, but I'm so happy with my guitar I think I'll stick to Ramirez guitars. It comes closest to what I believe is 'the true sound of a guitar'.

Marion, "de camera" definitely nailed it. The Spanish sound is what one wants. Yeah, I know, that's wildly biased, but that's what ***I***want to hear when I listen to a guitar :!: If I want to get mystical about it, it's almost as if the sound holds the whole history of Spain in it and the heat and sun etc etc.
Oh well, that's how I think when I get up too early :wink:

[JerryO]

I have a '94 1A, 664, Brazilian and I absolutely love it and play it more than any other. I has tremendous volume with deep spanish tone very much like a Rodriguez. I will never part with it.

[LP]

I lucked out on a 1991 1A Camara which sat in the back of the store that I purchased it from for years. It has an incredible tone and volume, very even over the whole register.

[ranger2000]

I played a Ramirez 2E and a 4E at Guitar Center. Both sounded very nice. They were both cedar tops and both sounded warm and dark.

If I had to own one, I'd own a 1A. However, for the kind of money to own a 1A (new), I'd get myself a guitar made by Paulino Bernabe. I wouldn't mind getting a used 1A, but I haven't done any serious looking yet.

[MikeS]

I own a 1965 model A classic guitar that I bought new from Ramirez's shop (by mail). I have carried the guitar around the world many times when I was working but never payed it as there were no teachers where I was living. I have taken up the guitar after laying off for about 38 years and as my old Goya has fallen apart, I am using the Ramirez. I am a rank (and I mean rank) amateur and am not sure I like the guitar. I don't mean to be disrespectful but I have heard others I like better but do not know if it is that I play so poorly that I cannot make an equivalent sound or what. I also think that the tones are not true in one or two locations up the neck. I am going to take it in to Richard Brune as his shop is close to me to get his opinion.

[GSI Fan]

Hi Mike,

Funny you should bring up R. Brune. Monday I had a morning business engagement in the Evanston area and decided to drop in on Richard’s shop. I met with him, his wife and his son. They are truly delightful people. As you enter the shop/store take a moment to look at the incredible guitars he has displayed and the harpsichord. Whatever you do, do not have him play for you. I felt like burning my guitars after hearing him play.

Parking is scarce and the location is a bit obscure. I parked in the Bank parking lot east of the underpass and walked about a block or so west to get there. Watch out for the pigeons!

[Mischa Z]

Hi, Folks:

A student of the late Narciso Yepes, I bought my first 1A Ramirez 10-String in 1974, for $830. The Romeros kept bragging about a 1973 Ramirez 10-String that Yepes had given to Angel, so I asked Pepe if Angel would sell it for $4000. Pepe said "absolutely not... but I think he might sell it for $3000." So, I called Angel and offered $3000, Angel accepted, and I flew to LAX to meet him and make the exchange. Pepe had always said that this was "one of the GREAT Ramirez guitars," and indeed, he was right, even Yepes had toured once with this guitar.

I've owned perhaps 200-300 guitars through the years, but the 1973 Ramirez 10-String has stayed with me. I took it to the Ramirez workshop about 3 years ago, and they told me that they could make it sound even better via changing the top, they claimed to now have "far better cedar" than they had in 1973. I gambled, and I certainly won, I've never played a more beautiful guitar, anywhere, not ever, and I've been a full-time professional player for over 40 years. Actually, my Ramirez when recorded sounds very similar to the guitar that David Russell records with, rich and clear throughout, except it is much more resonant, a feature of the 10-String design. Anyway, Amalia Ramirez now heads the family business, and I found her to be a very delightful and lovely lady. So, I named my 1973 10-String "Amalia." Now, when folks ask me what I call my 10-string, I have and answer: Amalia. Great, this was simply meant to be! I also showed this rebuilt guitar to Angel last Spring, and he wanted to buy it back! No way, Jose!

Yes, the "Ramirez Sound," my guitar is lovely throughout the entire range, and there is something awesome about the Ramirez sound on the second movement of the "Concierto de Aranjuez," isn't there folks? Now, I don't say that "Ramirez is the best," for the best is where you find it. I just happened to have personally found--and owned-- "the best" in a 1973 Ramirez 10-String, it is even better than the two Bernabe 10-Strings that I have owned. The Ramirez was the one with the greatest magic.

All my best,

Mischa

[daniel711]

I don't get the, 'absolutely not selling it for $4,000 but selling it for $3,000' thing! :shock:

[narby]

I bought my first 1a in 1972 for I seem to remember 32,000 pesatas which at the time was about $AUD400...a lot of money then. I bought a 1997 centenario in 1997- number 107 (new) for a lot more (about $AUD 13,000)
This guitar is easier to play than the 1972 and a work of art in terms of construction. I am really happy with the sound as well.

[keith]

i own a 1966 ramirez flamenco which for its age is in very good shape. i use to own a conde which is an ok guitar but the ramirez has so much more to it--the trebles are more metallic sounding and the basses do what i want rather than me adapting to them. the normal timbre is metallic but if i need a boom i can get it whereas the conde is boom boom all the time.

and the dry raspy tone to the sound is the equivalent of a hot babe blowing in one's ear....magic from which one cannot escape.

hey g.s.i. fan: just read you went to brune's shop--quite the place is it not. the lottery today is 1/4 of a billion dollars. just think what that could buy at brune's. that santos and barbero sure would look nice in my place.

[JoeAlders]

Hi Pepe!

I am playing on a Ramirez 1a (classico), mensure 664 mm-build by "no.6"
Arturo Sanzano-1979, for several year now. I was very lucky to buy it from the first owner, my guitarist companion for many years. He stopped playing the guitar due to his very busy work and then sold the instrument to me. In 1980, I was with him when he bought this Ramirez in a well known shop in Nijmegen. the Netherlands. After playing on several Ramires "s then, we choose this particular one because of its wonderful tone production in the treble region and its lovely mellow bass sound.

Joe.

[Ted G]

I just sold my 1966 Ramirez flamenco with pegs (spruce top). It was previously owned by Virginia Luque and was what she used to tour with. I saw her in concert a number of years back in San Francisco. She started playing her classical repetoire and then in the second half of the show for her encore she walked out playing this guitar. Needless to say I enjoyed her playing both classical and flamenco. Now when I found out this guitar was available, I jumped at it. And yes, it had that Ramirez sound. ...I don't want to think about it any more as I miss it already.

[dbecksto]

I was in Madrid this Spring and bought a Ramirez 1PM "Selecta" (cedar/Indian rosewood) at the Ramirez shop. I had never heard of this model before but the guy at the shop told me that the PM line is made for those who cant' afford the A line but want something higher quality than the student models. I thought this was just the Spanish version of the SP but he told me that the PM's are higher in the food chain than the SP's.

I love the guitar. Great tone, nice action. I've played a 1a and 2a and frankly I prefer mine although I can't say I'm really an expert ( I also like the 650mm better than the longer scales - I have small hands).

I've never seen a PM in the US. Has anyone else out there ever heard of this model?

[Pepe Vergara]

... I've played a 1a and 2a and frankly I prefer mine ...
Wow! I have also played Ramirez E4 that sound better than the 1A next to it. However, I have never heard a E4 sound better than an OLD (1970's) 1a or 2A.

[Perf_de_Castro]

Here's a link to a an mp3 I recorded with a 1973 Jose Ramirez 1A 10 String in cedar/brazilian rosewood.

http://tinyurl.com/bnuu7

This link will take you to my Soundclick page, then click on Fantasia and Allegro (weiss)

Cheers!
PERF
http://www.perfdecastro.com

[Mitch]

Some of you may have read my testimonial on my 2004 1aF SP/CY. I was able to compare this to many other fine flamenco guitars, and I think that the one I ended up with would rival any flamenco guitar made. If I had an unlimited budget, I'd have other guitars for their collectibility (a nice Barbero, a great Santos, etc), but I don't think they'd necessarily be better than this one. This guitar reeks of that pure flamenco sound - raspy and sharp, but beautiful. Before I bought this, I had some anti-Ramirez feelings - it is as illogical to discount a label as it is to praise one blindly. This guitar captures what for me is THE sound. Workmanship is superb, and it is a real beauty. I give it 6/5 stars. I used to badmouth Ramirez, but I have changed my tune.... I absolutely love this guitar.

- Mitch

Some pics of it here: 1aF Pics (http://members.cox.net/mitch.thompson/Ramirez.htm)

[Jubilee Valence]

Hey Mitch!!....I've "missed" ya'!!!

I can't get those pics to launch

not even any "properties"

what am I doin' wrong?

I've got dial-up.......

ps--I've got a blanca comin' that'll knock yer' socks off!--should be done in '06!!!!
When's the next Hyatt scene? The winter-visitors are en-masse no' ?
Gaetano & Monte probably think it's too quiet though...
:twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

[NGiorgio]

Mitch,

Great photos. I am jealous.

JV,

Dial up ?

[brian richardson]

does a teodoro perez count>

[Faya]

i used to have a Rami 1aF like that.......................
Nice guitar............, but i didn't really like mine.
So i sold it fer $4500...................

Nice pics Mitch! 8)

[ClassicalGtrPlyr]

I have a ramirez e1. I find ramirezs the same as any other ramirez they have a pecific sound to it. I got mine at a guitar shop that sold every kind of guitar. but the owner told me that they only sell 2 classicals a year because not alot of people play . So i looked up the list price on all the classicals there and i read the reviews so i did my research for the classicals they had. but in the price range i was willing to play the ramirez e1 was the bes now the list price is like 3,000 i got it for 1000 because i hagled for it. now im just a 17 year old so i didnt have alot of money to work with so i was happy for the price i got it for. i went to another shop and they had a e1 as well and it sounded horrible so its not all about the model there like fingerprints and there never the same so i was happy i have a good one. now if I could have any guitar in the world most likely i wouldent get a ramirez because ive played some of those new guitar makers out there guitars and there amazing you just have to find the right one and dont rush into buying you should always do your research.

[ChrisAM86]

they're way overpriced, don't sound nearly as good as their reputation may lead you to believe and have some of the worst sounding highs on Earth.

[ClassicalGtrPlyr]

Chris AM86 you right in some cases they are overratted but like i said i got the best sounding one i can find for myprice range like i said id rather have somthin else but you just need to find the right one for you.

[ChrisAM86]

Chris AM86 you right in some cases they are overratted but like i said i got the best sounding one i can find for myprice range like i said id rather have somthin else but you just need to find the right one for you.

yeah, there are a few true gems among the Ramirez collection, most notably the ones that Parkening plays on his albums. The guitar that Tom Prisloe built for me seems to truly capture that tone though, so I'm thoroughly happy with it and probably wouldn't ever consider switching to a Ramirez.

[brian richardson]

a few? :roll:
:twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

[ClassicalGtrPlyr]

Cool :D lol

[Richard]

I have a Ramirez 2CWE that I use for jazzier stuff in my repetoire such as Jobim or Django Reinhardt. I'm very pleased with it, both plugged in and unplugged. Sweet tone, excellent playability.

[ehoude]

I have two 1A Ramirez, a '74 6-string and an '82 10-string, both 664mm scale, and I wouldn't want to play anything else. My old Hauser guitar rarely gets played any more.

Personally, I think the 664 mm scale is the way to go. My hands are not large (I'm only 5'2" tall) and it took a little time to get used to, but I have really come to appreciate the added room, and the long sustain of the 664mm string length.

[PedroO]

Two Ramirez and one Hauser? Are we allow to show off in this forum? I just did not want to bring out my Torres, Garcia and Simplicio, which I almost don't play since I got a Luis Alberto Sevillano here in Tijuana!! Check him out: http://www.laprensa-sandiego.org/archieve/may11/guitar.htm

[Jubilee Valence]

Chris AM86 you right in some cases they are overratted but like i said i got the best sounding one i can find for myprice range like i said id rather have somthin else but you just need to find the right one for you.

yeah, there are a few true gems among the Ramirez collection, most notably the ones that Parkening plays on his albums. The guitar that Tom Prisloe built for me seems to truly capture that tone though, so I'm thoroughly happy with it and probably wouldn't ever consider switching to a Ramirez. Wow!!...That'a "awesome" that you're so intuned with your "Pavan"....Great!!

Now, for pure "No holds barred".....you know!---like, "no prisoners"....Power!...Color!....WHEWW!!

Yep!.....'got me a R1 about a year back....and it was only *XXXX[*"Violation!"] cash during a "Red Sticker" sale at GC!....It's perfect-flawless!(I don't get it!?)

This instrument blew my ears out the first month I had it because of the overall "volume"....it is, for lack of a better analogy, an "air-pumping, sonic machine!" And an engine whose "entire" operating spectrum is represented by pure color; Although "cursed", comparatively speaking, with sustain that borders on "echo", it's become nevertheless my "negra" and when driven to the extreme edge of it's build/design limits--as I do "basically" whenever I engage it--it outperforms even itself! Wel'p, Ta! Ta!
____________________________________________
"QUOTE":
"Two Ramirez and one Hauser? Are we allow to show off in this forum? I just did not want to bring out my Torres, Garcia and Simplicio, which I almost don't play since I got a Luis Alberto Sevillano here in Tijuana!! Check him out: http://www.laprensa-sandiego.org/archieve/may11/guitar.htm "

....huh?..."e-bay?" :mrgreen:

"Jubi-dubi-dubi-duuuuuuuuuu' !"

[ChrisAM86]

Chris AM86 you right in some cases they are overratted but like i said i got the best sounding one i can find for myprice range like i said id rather have somthin else but you just need to find the right one for you.

yeah, there are a few true gems among the Ramirez collection, most notably the ones that Parkening plays on his albums. The guitar that Tom Prisloe built for me seems to truly capture that tone though, so I'm thoroughly happy with it and probably wouldn't ever consider switching to a Ramirez. Wow!!...That'a "awesome" that you're so intuned with your "Pavan"....Great!!

Now, for pure "No holds barred".....you know!---like, "no prisoners"....Power!...Color!....WHEWW!!

Yep!.....'got me a R1 about a year back....and it was only *XXXX[*"Violation!"] cash during a "Red Sticker" sale at GC!....It's perfect-flawless!(I don't get it!?)

This instrument blew my ears out the first month I had it because of the overall "volume"....it is, for lack of a better analogy, an "air-pumping, sonic machine!" And an engine whose "entire" operating spectrum is represented by pure color; Although "cursed", comparatively speaking, with sustain that borders on "echo", it's become nevertheless my "negra" and when driven to the extreme edge of it's build/design limits--as I do "basically" whenever I engage it--it outperforms even itself! Wel'p, Ta! Ta!
____________________________________________
"QUOTE":
"Two Ramirez and one Hauser? Are we allow to show off in this forum? I just did not want to bring out my Torres, Garcia and Simplicio, which I almost don't play since I got a Luis Alberto Sevillano here in Tijuana!! Check him out: http://www.laprensa-sandiego.org/archieve/may11/guitar.htm "

....huh?..."e-bay?" :mrgreen:

"Jubi-dubi-dubi-duuuuuuuuuu' !"

Uhh, Pavan is his factory sold Spanish model, mine is his hand-made model, which is a concert guitar. As far as I know (also from my experience playing them) the Ramirez R1 is a student guitar with what maybe be the worst sounding high E I've ever heard. I played one a few months ago and although the basses were very loud, the trebles were weak and could barely even handle a rest stroke without buzzing like hell.

That's funny that you actually paid over $1000 for it too, I've seen them on sale for around 700ish before.

[brian richardson]

chris-you are wrong.
everytime you show up here, you shoot off your
mouth while eating your foot.
go back to where you come from-ya know, that place
where you are always right. :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

name calling? get a grip. did someone piss in
your sandbox again???

[Jubilee Valence]

Uhh, Pavan is his FaCtOrY sOlD Spanish model, mine is his hand-made model, which is a concert guitar."As far as I know"[*NOTE: which don't appear ta' be very far....JV](also from my experience playing them)[*NOTE: Look out folks! They're comin' at us pretty fast now!--JV] the Ramirez "R1 is a student guitar with what maybe be the worst sounding high E I've ever heard." I played one "a few months ago" and although the basses were very loud, the trebles were weak and could barely even handle a rest stroke :!: :!: :!: :!: :arrow: " without buzzing like hell." :shock: [*NOTE: Aw'rite folks yer gonna have ta' put'cher heads together fer' this one!!??....awww, never mind!...I'll explain down there in detail.....tsk tsk tsk!--JV]

That's funny that you actually paid over $1000 for it too, I've seen them on sale for around 700ish before. :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :arrow: ...ppssstt!..th' jokes on "you", clyde!.....heh heh heh.....what a lump'o'clay!....the regular "Line 6" of the nylon world!...(think "modeled")....ya' know I couldn't help but notice you was doin' such a good job of character assassinatin' (ppsst!--"yers'!";) ) & don't expect "me" ta' miss out on all'a fun!!--Especially with you paintin' such a "accurate" pit'cher of.....uhhh....hhmmmmnnnnn.....help us out here, will ya' clyde?...

aw'rite, aw'rite!...less'ee here...now this other fella here's goin' on about a :?: "e1" :?: 'er somthin' & you're sayin' all of 'em are famous fer' weak highs etc.....cuz' of wha-? was it.....?

Oh yeah yeah Ok...."experience".......& "also"...it appears that you remember actually playing one, although this one too had these trebly shortcomings!....hhhmmnn...ok I'm startin' ta' see somethin' here...

clyde, a e1 ain't no Ramirez, see?.....R1, a "Ramirez", has the highest action of most all the guitars in the civilized world(btw Tom[sp?] "sells 'em" & the factory "builds 'em", see? ;) )...so if yer' goin' on about a buzzin' high e on a e1 and out'ta the same context expectin' somebody ta' buy that one--you know--that you judge "guitars" buy playing them with obviously "broken" high "e" strings....blah blah blah.....sheesshhhh!!

aw'rite then------------ :idea: :arrow: *Bonus Point!!...'tell us about the "Lumber" & "humidity woes"....OK OK--"two" points! :mrgreen:

oh!--almost fer'got there "Clay.." heh heh heh......I don't do so good with algebraic formulae ya' know?....& bein' that ya' spilled the beans all over th' joint, least I can do is show ya' th' menu...

*XXXX
*$600........in where th' letter "X", like in this classic bit :arrow: "XXX"--represents in my post, that of a random character value...not a "like" value, see?

.....like in com'puter talk!....not no "Rocket Science" huh?

Jub-duuuuu'
ps I paid "seven" out th' door with it's own case! :oops: ....what'ya duuu'???????? :roll:

aw'rite then........

[brian richardson]

chris-you said your guitar ''captures 'that' tone".
the rami tone-the parkening tone-the album tone??
so you wouldn't even considering switching to a ramirez (who cares)
o.k.-so, now we know your 'set list' as per the antonio jose thread,
and we know that your 'hand made/concert guitar' captures that
tone(ramirez?). anything else ya selling?? the kitchen sink??
ya been away for some time, going back anytime soon? wish there
was a hands praying emoticon :!:

[GSI Fan]

Hey...what's going on here? Should I fire up the keyboard??? :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

[Pumping Carbon]

I own two Ramirez guitars - a '70 1A and a '71 1A. I wonder if Amalia Ramirez would make me one with a 664mm-52mm scale/nut width - without the taper. I agree with Yuris Zeltins. I see absolutely no advantage to a tapered fretboard.

[cglover]

I just bought a Ramirez S1 student model. I've had 2 other Ramirez student models (an R1 & R2) in the past that played okay, but didn't have the sound I was looking for.

This one is a real winner though. I guess the spruce top did the trick for me!

My only complaint would be that the tuning machines stink. They're the cheapest version of fusteros you can purchase, and they don't work any better than a set of $10 cheapos from the local guitar shop. I don't have a lot of money, but I just ordered a set of gotohs for $65 with a 16:1 gear ratio.

I know that I just have a student model, but $1000 is nothing to sneeze at! Why can't Ramirez do us all a favor and splurge an extra $30 for a better set of tuning machines, I'm sure they get them cheaper in bulk. Most serious guitar players will pay attention to details such as this.

If I had the money and could choose only 1 guitar from that makers that you mentioned......that would be tough. The only way I could do it would be to have all the guitars in one room for me to try out blind folded so I don't cheat myself out of the one that plays the best. Then do a visual inspection of my top 2 choices. :D

[Travis_Warner]

I ran into this same problem when I was looking to buy a new classical. Don't get me wrong, the High-End Ramirez guitars are really in a class of there own. However, for the price of 1,000 - 2,000, I just think a man (or woman) could do much better. IMHO, there are many better guitars out there in that price range than Ramirez (Cordoba, the Lorientine series, etc), and that Ramirez is relying to much on their name to sell these "lower end" guitars.

anyways, just my 2 cents, which in canadian, is like 1.7 cents :twisted:

[Juergen Hu]

Do I own a Ramirez guitar? No. :cry: Would I like to? You bet. :lol:

I played a 4E a few weeks ago. It was the best sounding classical guitar in the store! Someday I hope to have one. I am thinking the 4E or the SP-C.

4E is totally not worth the price. it's so thin in sound and the projection is even worse than some other lower end ones. you can get a much better guitar with its price or preferabbly spent a little bit more to have your dream one.

[JerryZ]

Do I own a Ramirez guitar? No. :cry: Would I like to? You bet. :lol:

I played a 4E a few weeks ago. It was the best sounding classical guitar in the store! Someday I hope to have one. I am thinking the 4E or the SP-C.

4E is totally not worth the price. it's so thin in sound and the projection is even worse than some other lower end ones. you can get a much better guitar with its price or preferabbly spent a little bit more to have your dream one.

It never ceases to amaze me the thickness of some people’s skull. To characterize an entire label over one dud is blatant stupidity. Even the “Superstars” of the luthier world have had their duds. Are you to suggest they’re not worth the price either? Did you stop for a moment to consider where you purchased the instrument, how it was cared for while they had it, and other like factors? Probably not!!!

Personally, I consider your comments irresponsible!

[guitardude127]

I currently own two..2002 R4 CD/IN 650/52 and a 1974 1a CD/BR 664/54. I'm hoping to part with the R4 soon, but the 1a will stick around as long as it's playable. Amazing guitar.

[Jubilee Valence]

......My only complaint would be that the tuning machines stink. They're the cheapest version of fusteros you can purchase, and they don't work any better than a set of $10 cheapos from the local guitar shop. I don't have a lot of money, but I just ordered a set of gotohs for $65 with a 16:1 gear ratio.

I know that I just have a student model, but $1000 is nothing to sneeze at! Why can't Ramirez do us all a favor and splurge an extra $30 for a better set of tuning machines, I'm sure they get them cheaper in bulk. Most serious guitar players will pay attention to details such as this....... ....I'm going to have to AGREE that the tuners are way below expected and/or needed for instruments of this level...WAY, WAY BELOW!!!

...but more importantly.....
_______________________
......OR...."the REST of the story!?"
If I had the money and could choose only 1 guitar from that makers that you mentioned......that would be tough. The only way I could do it would be to have all the guitars in one room for me to try out blind folded so I don't cheat myself out of the one that plays the best.*blah blah blah ;) Then do a visual inspection of my top 2 choices. :D :!: :idea: :arrow: :?:

OK??!! SO HOW DO YA' PICK JUST ONE???? :shock:

[cglover]

OK??!! SO HOW DO YA' PICK JUST ONE???? :shock:

You sell a vital organ and buy 2. Oh crap, I'm out of organs. :evil:

I feel like a recovering drug addict that needs a fix!!!!!!! I'm currently looking to purchase a 10 course lute to add to my collection. :D :roll:

[Dinkfeld]

I had one. Not sorry I traded it. To Boomy for me, expensive, workmanship can be matched. There are MANY excellent makers out in luther land.

[Jubilee Valence]

OK??!! SO HOW DO YA' PICK JUST ONE???? :shock:

........needs a fix!!!!!!!...........a 10 course lute............ :D :roll: :!: :!: ....A TEN COURSE LUTE??!!... :?: :!: "AND!"... :?: yer' all out'ta organs??!!......... :idea: that means-

"ONLY ONE POSSIBLE SOLUTION"

--cuz' ya only got "one shot", right? :shock:

aawwww, 'jeeeeeezz!!!...I can't believe it!--( I aw'ready KNOW this one...)--But it's my turn.... :roll: ....aw'right, then....
______________________

-lute....

-all the marbles....

........................................... :arrow: "VEGA!" ;)
__________________________

...well!? What's everybody "gawkin' at"?

I never said: "He ain't the best!?"........I just "don't say"! 'see?

ppsstt!...just don't "bug 'im" about the wood.... fer' crisd'sakes, he'll lecture ya' ta' DEATH!!!

:twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

[cglover]

sorry jubilee, you kinda lost me there. I'm new to the forum, so I guess I missed something. :?: :!: :shock:

Maybe you could give me a history lesson :?:

[Juergen Hu]

Do I own a Ramirez guitar? No. :cry: Would I like to? You bet. :lol:

I played a 4E a few weeks ago. It was the best sounding classical guitar in the store! Someday I hope to have one. I am thinking the 4E or the SP-C.

4E is totally not worth the price. it's so thin in sound and the projection is even worse than some other lower end ones. you can get a much better guitar with its price or preferabbly spent a little bit more to have your dream one.

It never ceases to amaze me the thickness of some people’s skull. To characterize an entire label over one dud is blatant stupidity. Even the “Superstars” of the luthier world have had their duds. Are you to suggest they’re not worth the price either? Did you stop for a moment to consider where you purchased the instrument, how it was cared for while they had it, and other like factors? Probably not!!!

Personally, I consider your comments irresponsible!

Personally, i consider you a rude person. I have played not less than 5 4Es, and none of them can barely match Ramirez's name. check them out by yourself and everybody knows ramirez under 4000 are most likely craps. Do not be stupid to say other is studip, you stupid.

[Moderato]

Do I own a Ramirez guitar? No. :cry: Would I like to? You bet. :lol:

I played a 4E a few weeks ago. It was the best sounding classical guitar in the store! Someday I hope to have one. I am thinking the 4E or the SP-C.

4E is totally not worth the price. it's so thin in sound and the projection is even worse than some other lower end ones. you can get a much better guitar with its price or preferabbly spent a little bit more to have your dream one.

It never ceases to amaze me the thickness of some people’s skull. To characterize an entire label over one dud is blatant stupidity. Even the “Superstars” of the luthier world have had their duds. Are you to suggest they’re not worth the price either? Did you stop for a moment to consider where you purchased the instrument, how it was cared for while they had it, and other like factors? Probably not!!!

Personally, I consider your comments irresponsible!

Personally, i consider you a rude person. I have played not less than 5 4Es, and none of them can barely match Ramirez's name. check them out by yourself and everybody knows ramirez under 4000 are most likely craps. Do not be stupid to say other is studip, you stupid.I have a 98 4E and it has a very nice sound. Back when I bought it, it was $2600 or so new and IMO it's still easily worth that much.

[Great Googly Moogly]

....aw'right, then....
______________________

-lute....

-all the marbles....

........................................... :arrow: "VEGA!" ;)
__________________________

...well!? What's everybody "gawkin' at"?

I never said: "He ain't the best!?"........I just "don't say"! 'see?

ppsstt!...just don't "bug 'im" about the wood.... fer' crisd'sakes, he'll lecture ya' ta' DEATH!!!

:twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:
That is freakin' HILARIOUS!!!

cglover,
Had you been around to read though some of the recent threads around here, you would see how funny that was, BELIEVE ME! LOL!

[Jubilee Valence]

.....but ta' be perfectly straightforward on th' subject.....everybody knows Jerry Willard & Frank Koonce are "THE LUTE GUYS".. (eh, Bri'??)

But ol' C.V. is pretty big on the lute in general, being involved in the classical period restorations etc......& a major player, mover & shaker (Hey! How 'bout one o'them "shake tables?...nawww, never mind...)so I thought I'd give him "the nod"....

cglover you can sure get alot of good Lute info around here, try and flag Brian Richardson for any specifics and surefire leads etc---he's been pretty tied up though lately...Jubi ;)

[brian richardson]

jubi-nice one on the willard!!!!
he can tear it up fer sure!!! :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

[Pepe Vergara]

This thread was started in Feb. 2004, more than two years ago. It seems like yesterday, I wonder how many guitar I could have built if I had used the time I spend on this forum building. Also, how many pieces would have I learned if not fooling around this forum. Any ideas on your side? :D

[Moderato]

This thread was started in Feb. 2004, more than two years ago. It seems like yesterday, I wonder how many guitar I could have built if I had used the time I spend on this forum building. Also, how many pieces would have I learned if not fooling around this forum. Any ideas on your side? :DEven between the breaths we take which sustain our lives, there is time for a pause. :wink:

[Mischa Z]

Hi, Folks:

Recently, I bought the new Segovia DVD, "In Portrait," and, in spite of a short workshop scene with Fleta, Segovia played on a Ramirez guitar. My own is a 1973 Ramirez 10-string that has always been one of the great Ramirez guitars, touring with Yepes first, then going to Angel Romero. I redesigned it and had it rebuilt under Amalia Ramirez, and it is now better than ever, as beautiful a sound as I've ever heard in a guitar. So, I was thrilled to hear Segovia on that Ramirez, which sounded very similar to my guitar, now named "Amalia." But I don't play like Segovia, I can play with beauty, but Segovia has always been in a class of his own. Anyway, in the past 2 weeks, I've been attempting to get Segovia's "cello-rich" sound quality, and, in some substantial part for sure, it's working for me, this guitar is attracting folks like a magnet now! I had always heard Segovia on the Hauser, so this Ramirez recording ended up being perhaps the best guitar lesson I've ever had, it gave me a point of reference for my own Ramirez!

Yes, the sound of a Ramirez... that Spanish magic, this instrument has the "Voice of the People," even the great classical musicians from India that I know--Ravi Shankar and Ali Akbar Khan and others--love the sound of this 10-string Ramirez, what could be more beautiful?

Best,

Mischa

[Dinosaur]

Ramirez!
Say what you want to-they set the standard.I wanted one for over 30
years before I took the plunge and own more than one-including a 2005
high end model which is certainly the best of the lot.As long as Amalia
can retain the great luthiers in the workshop there is no reason they will
ever lose their reputation for excellence.
That said.a fine guitar is like a titanium golf club-it will only improve
your game a little if you don't have a great game to start with.There's
plenty of FINE instruments out there with alot of great attributes for sure
but have you ever noticed that most of them are made by people who
started out with Ramirez?Maybe that is why they include that tidbit of
information at the outset.Just one old goober's opinion.
Dinosaur

[Richard]

Dinosaur, with that moniker of yours and frequent mentions of your vintage state, you're begging the question: just how old are you? I bet a few of us here could easily match you...

[Dinosaur]

Dinosaur, with that moniker of yours and frequent mentions of your vintage state, you're begging the question: just how old are you? I bet a few of us here could easily match you...

To answer your question- fifty something,however,one does not
have to be elderly to be a "dinosaur" in todays fast paced
digital software driven world;hence the moniker.
Dinosaur

[Richard]

Hey Dinosaur, there's more to life than software. You're a spring chicken and probably have not yet hit your guitar-playing peak!

[JoeAlders]

“…I bet a few of us here could easily match you...”

Richard is right; I am sixty something, so beating the dinosaur but ……
I am also an analogue man!

Joe.

[Dinosaur]

Thanks Richard,
You and Joe haven't beat alot if you've beat me.I am one of those
"digitally challenged types" for sure.The good news is I am fortunate to have a great instructor and have gone back to where I left off in my music
about 30 years ago.Good thing about guitar is that it has no buttons to push
and nothing electric about it-well,classical guitars don't as a rule.
Dinosaur

[Sasquatch51]

I have a 4E. I have always had a preference for Jose Ramirez guitars...not that every one I ever played was good, but the good ones tended to be really good. I've played a couple of 1A's that I just didn't care for. My 4E is everything I hoped it would be and then some....it's potential certainly exceeds my abilities.

[MM]

I also have a Ramirez 4E (2000), whose tone, depth, sustain, and warmth I have not found in other guitars in the near price range (better than a $10,000 Brazilian I played once). But I also played 4 other 4E's, from the same year, shipment, same strings etc. and this one was twice the guitar of any of the others. There are surprises in all price ranges. I played one $650.00 Estevez that rivalled the Ramirez "student" guitars (mostly in the $2000.00 - $3500.00 USD range now).

[Richard]

MM, you make a great point about Ramirez guitars, which is their consistent inconsistency, even within the same model lines. I've played great R1s and lousy 1As.

[Sharstrom]

My first teacher had a 1a, don't remember which year model but this was in '71. I thirsted after one, and when he called me a couple yr. later, somewhat desperate for money, and offered it to me for something like $500??, don't recall exactly, but something like that, I had to turn him down...in college, that much money might as well have been $5000. Never forgot that, tho'. So, gave up classical for over ten yr. [and don't feel quite so alone after reading about other forum members...] and when I got back into it, discovered both GSI and the 2E [on Tim's recommendation, after a very long phone conversation]. Loved it, beautiful sounding and playing instument. Then, GSI contacted me about a new 1a, heavily discounted [actually, a few of them] and I took a few days to bite. Got one, love it more, sold the 2E [very reluctantly but couldn't afford to keep it and the 1a killed my budget for a very long spell].

I wouldn't give up the 1a [2001 model]. Classic sound...playability, intonation, workmanship all stellar. The guitar has possibilities far beyond my capabilities.... I had the action lowered slightly, other than that, perfect for what I "hear" and need and love. I've owned a lot of guitars, tho' only a few classicals, and feel the tuners on my 1a are great. Don't know what the complaints stem from.

[Moderato]

I love my 1a. It's much better then my 4E in everyway.