What are the best Folk guitars with:bright/brilliant toneemphasis on mid&high range$900 or<?

Question

As I said, I'm looking for a smaller size guitar (perhaps a folk or grand size model) for under $900.

I'm looking for a bright/brilliant sound and emphasis on mid and high range tones. The louder the sound the better.

If it's hard to find something like that on the market, are there any ways I should customize a guitar to fit these specifications? Any ideas about woods, body shapes, size, etc? Any ideas about specific brands?

I'm asking because I have a Martin dreadnought (D-3R) now and love it, but it's responsiveness to fingerpicking is ok, but it's much better for strumming.

Another question...my Martin D3R is about 10 yrs old. It's been kept up well. It has a solid spruce top, rosewood back and sides and mahogany neck...it has a wonderfully brilliant sound to it...strong bass and nice brilliant treble sound, long sustain. Does anyone know about how much it would be worth now? I looked on Martin's website and they don't sell the D-3R anymore.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Under $900 is tough.  You&#039;re looking for a Grand Concert sized guitar.  The Taylor 312Ce would be perfect.  The Larrivee L-03 is worth looking at.  A Martin 00 or 000 size would be fine, especially the wonderful 000-18.  Gryphon has a used Goodall grand concert for $2985 that&#039;s a steal at that price.

For woods you should consider mahogany, sapele, walnut, or maple for the back and sides.  Rosewood is too tonally dark in general and you can&#039;t afford koa.  For the top, solid spruce is your choice; cedar is much darker.

I have no idea what your D-3R is worth - it was never a popular model - but you should expect no more than half what you paid for it on a private sale and about 1/4 to 1/3 what you paid if you sell it to a music store as a trade in.  Another possibility is to sell it on consignment as a music store.

Answer 2

As I was reading your question, I thought he needs a Martin Dreadnought, but I see you already have one.  

Eric Clapton played one on his Unplugged album.  My son bought one and we both love it.

Sorry, I don&#039;t know what to recommend then.

Go to a music store on line, like Musicians Friend, or check on e-bay.

A local music store around her is CA House.  Check with them one line and they may be able to give you a price.

Answer 3

I know it&#039;s not a folk guitar, but look at the Baby Taylor it has the small size and the bright sound you are looking for.

That Martin D3R should have some good value, especially after 10 years of being aged in.  Check with the music store when you go for the Baby Taylor.

Good Luck