Product: Alvarez 5022
Price Paid: US $385
Submitted
06/11/2001
at
09:06am
by
gmiller
Email: gmiller1122<at>yahoo dot com
Features
:
7
I bought this in 1994. Made in Korea, I think. I'm not sure of the wood used other than the rosewood fretboard. No pick-ups, just a straight dreadnought, though it's in the shop getting a Fishman thinline pickup installed right now. Gloss finish. Nice details on the finish.
Sound
:
8
I play folk/rock music and this has more than fit my style over the last 7 years. When I play out, I use a Fender KXR 100 (keyboard amp) as a PA -- it really pushes the sound out there nicely. No effects.
This has a full, bright sound. When shopping around, I played Takamines, Martins, Fenders, etc. Most were twice the price and they sounded like crap. It seems the sound deadens when the price rises above $700. Maybe I just don't know quality when I hear it, but I still love the sound of this guitar!
Other than the usual set-ups, the guitar has maintained a fine sound for the money.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
8
The action was a bit high, as usual, and I needed some fretwork done (as usual) but there were no flaws.
Reliability/Durability
:
9
I have played this guitar for 7 years and it was withstood countless hours of playing. I take care of my guitar, but I have NEVER needed or felt I needed a backup.
Customer Support
:
8
Never dealt with them. Came with 5 year warranty.
Overall Rating
:
10
I've been playing on and off for about 10 years. The only other guitar I own is an Applause (I hold onto it only because it was my first and I'm a sentimental sap). I have played many a friend's acoustic guitar including Fender, Epiphone, Takamine, Martin, Guild, Ovation, and so on, and must say I prefer this guitar (especially for the price). If stolen, I would definitely look into the new lines by Alvarez first -- it would be second only to a Guild or Gibson, if I can ever afford one.
