Goodall OM

I recently bought a 2003 Goodall Orchestra Model with a sitka top, solid koa back and sides, ebony bridge and fretboard. Ebony laminate headstock with schaller chrome mini tuners. The guitar while very basic is a pretty instrument and the Koa while only single A grade is stunning. The guitar came with a clear pickguard for shop purposes only and was a major pain to remove. A lot of adhesive was left on the top from removal and while I called Goodall and left a message I never got a return call. My local repair shop told me to use Naphtha which did work well.

While this is a new guitar it does have a nice bright sound that is not overly done as many Koa guitars seem to be. The low end is there and the mids and highs are sweet. The guitar also is set up nicely with no need for any adjustments. I bought it for fingerstyle and it seems to be perfect for that. Overall I'm satisfied but am keeping my eye out for something better.

As I said earlier, the guitar is set up nicely. For what I paid, its what I expected.

Haven't had it long enough to know how it will hold up. Its my first Goodall and they seem to have a great reputation. I am more loyal to Collings guitars who I believe make the best guitar for the money. The Goodall is very well made though.

I wote two emails to Goodall and never got a reply. One was before I bought the guitar as I was trying to get some information to help me decide to buy and one afterwards asking about the adhesive problem. I also placed a call to them about the adhesive and never got a response. When I was looking for the guitar around the country all the Goodall dealers talked about James and Jean Goodall like they were best friends. I can only assume the Goodalls are great about communicating with their dealers responsively but not their customers who pay the bills. I have spoken to the good folks at Collings many times and they are responsive, friendly and helpful. The collings staff has always returned my calls promptly. I am not being overly critical of the Goodalls and praising Collings, it is just the facts from my experience. I expect more from a Company when I'm spending my money

I have been playing the guitar now for 20 years. I own two great collings acoustics, a OM2H and a 0002H. I also own a Breedlove nylon and a Ramirez 1A. If I had it to do over I probably would have bought another Collings and may still yet. I have owned many top of the line Taylors and vintage Martins. The goodall is a really nice guitar but honestly I caved to their reputation which is legendary. Time will tell.