Guild D-4

Plain & simple.

Rich, full sound.

I've played bass for the past 40 years, so I'm not a good judge of the action. To me the action feels great, but I'm used to a whole different feel. As far as fit & finish goes, it seems to be as near perfect as a guitar can be.

It gets passed around more than a ... well it's seen a LOT of playing and a lot of players and is still in near-perfect condition.

Never used.

My ex-wife bought this new and gave it to me for my birthday in 1993. Mine is the high-gloss model and has a manufacturing date inside of Jan 4, 1993. Like I said above, I've played bass for 40 years, but I love to do some picking & strumming once in a while. I have been in love with this guitar since the day I took it out of the case. I rarely get to play it when other guitar players are around. Whenever we have a get together at my house (which is often), the first thing I hear is "where's that Guild of yours?" Several have tried to get me to sell it to them "what do you want a 6-string for anyway?" I've never used it professionally, but it has been loaned to friends to use performing several times. One wanted to take it on tour with him and leave me his Martin. This is a wonderful instrument, and of the many people who have played it over the years there has never been anything but praise for it.

Satin finish, mahogany back and sides, spruce top. Whaddya want for 300 bucks?

The thing sounds like a cannon and plays like an eighteen year old virgin.

See above.

Built like a tank. I could kill you with this, then use it at Fisher Hall.

Seriously, though, after ten years, the thing is well-worn, but sounds fantastic.

Never needed them - 10.

I bought this thing on Ebay ten years ago for 300 bucks and it's been my baby ever since. It's also been my protector. I'll forever love this Guild.

The Guild D-4, introduced in 1991, is a straightforward mahogany dreadnaught with spruce top. I got mine in '92 and it is my old friend. The mahogany sides are matched but do not have much figure in the grain, the arched back is one piece and the grain is close together on one side widening up to a broad open grain on the other. Not really a handsome guitar but not meant to be, either, at the price. The value in the D4 is in the sound and quality.

The spruce top has very straight grain moderately spaced at a USA quarter thickness apart. Mine has some bear claw on both sides of the upper bouts. The superb 1-1/16 mahogany neck is ONE piece except for blocks to widen the headstock just outside the silver Grover tuners.

Bindings are black with the top bindings and rosette enhanced with a simple white/black/white/black micro bands. Understated but looks good with the usual Guild western style pickguard.

My Guild D4 has clarity and punch with single notes and finger picking (a bit like aged mahogany OMs or 000s made by Martin), but still has the jangly Guild singing sound if you play a full handful. Very balanced across the fretboard. It has plenty of headroom so you can whang it without breaking up or getting messy, a quality I dearly love and hard to find in a moderately priced guitar

This guitar is about 15 years old now and the sound is better than ever. I suppose it is my main love. I have a half dozen guitars and always reach for this one. A fabulous box, IMHO.

When I got this guitar I played everything in the store. The sound was just right but the action was a little high and the frets needed dressing. A country luthier set it up for me. He happened to like the guitar so he took his time and got the setup right the first time and rounded the edges of the fretboard, too.

I've gone through some changes with this guitar. The finish was no big deal so I painted it twice. One time flat brown with some decorations in red paint, then later green with palm trees. I was playing bars. I trimmed the signature Guild shape off the headstock (I'm a cabinetmaker), leaving a gentle curve at the top. Finally I stripped off all the paint, stained the spruce a little and shot a satin nitro finish on it. It's a handsome little dreadnaught now and a lot of players ask about it beause there are no labels.

This guitar is well built and will be there when your grandkids grow up.
I have used and abused mine every which way and it takes it. Sure you can scratch and gouge it if you aren't careful and if you play clubs you eventually will. Don't worry about it; doesn't change the sound.

I think the D4 came with light gauge strings on it. Whatever the case, I strung it with D'Addario mediums for volume and played it that way for years. The belly has swelled a little now so I've gone back to lights because I don't gig anymore, anyway.

Never needed it.

I have been playing for 45 years. I got this guitar for its clear note-for-note mahogany voice and its ability to punch through other music (think Irish). There are other guitars with spectacular voices similar to the D4, but not at this price. You can find some great Asian guitars these days in this price range of $500-600US but you won't get the classic Guild sound and quality.

Guitars are tools, really. They don't have to look good to make beautiful music. I like mine simple and tough. That's what this guitar is: simple, tough, and sounds great. If I happen to bust up this one I will be on the Net next day looking for another just like it.

My American made Guild D-4 is an acoustic dreadnaught with a satin-finished mahogany body and a solid cedar top. I don't know when it was made but I'd guess in the late 90's. I've had it now for probably 5 years. It has a beautifully contoured and unbraced back, and the body depth increases slightly from neck to end pin. The individual tuners are strong and sealed with the Guild logo on them (probably Grovers). The full size neck is also mahogany with a fairly hefty feel to it. It does not taper much towards the nut. What baffles me is the fingerboard. If I had to guess I would say it too was mahogany but I've never heard of that material used for a fingerboard. Whatever it is, it holds up well and seems to meld right into the neck. The twenty frets are large and rounded with no angles. The bridge is chunky and solid with no compensation in the saddle. It has a thin tortoise colored pickguard and slim black and white binding that is copied around the rosette. I find it difficult to rate this guitar accurately by it's "features"...it features exactly what is required to be a guitar.

The sound of this guitar is terrific. When I picked up this used guitar in a shop it was (of course) out of tune and buzzing all over the place. Surprised that this should be my first response to a Guild I sat down with it and examined it. I couldn't understand it. Everything seemed to be solid, not tampered with, and the wood was responsive with a deep mellow resonance. I was able to get the guitar nearly in tune yet there was still rattling and an inexplicable dullness in certain positions. I put the guitar down and started playing other guitars that had caught my eye including a $1500 Alvarez and the mid range $1200(?) Martins. No matter what guitar I played my thoughts returned to the low-end $460 Guild. The glossy woods of the other guitars didn't seem nearly as responsive. I had to pick up the Guild again to re-evaluate. I sat down with it and played a couple of chords. Just then another player came in and picked up a guitar. Hearing my progressions he started to break over them. After a few minutes he asked if he could try the Guild (probably disappointed with the overall sound). We traded guitars,and he strummed a deadened chord or two, broke into a buzzing lick, and said "This guitar sucks! What are you playing this for?" He replaced the Guild and grabbed another guitar and we continued jamming for another ten minutes. Throughout, I still couldn't get my mind off the Guild. The guitar he had handed me was more in tune with no buzzes, yet still not as responsive. We both left shortly after but I returned a few days later and talked the shop into selling the Guild to me for $400. It sounded so bad they were probably happy to get rid of it. As soon as I got it home I loosened up (or is it tightened?) the truss rod and lo and behold the buzzes and dead spots disappeared! The guitar stays in tune perfectly and the responsiveness of the wood really shines. The sound is incredibly versatile. The combination of materials and design is what makes this instrument so special. The unbraced rounded back improves the sound projection in spite of being mahogany and yet the solid cedar top instills a sensitive warmth with no brittleness. Having also played a glossy D-4 I believe the satin finish also allows a little more vibration, increasing resonance and the wonderful "feel" of an acoustic. Although not the loudest guitar for fingerpicking, the tonal separation between strings is wonderful. This separation also makes for strong full chords. Again the strength of this guitar is its responsiveness. Strong strumming will bring out loud sure chording while softer fingerpicking will bring out clean distinct notes. The overall tone is deep, slightly dark, and rich so if you are primarily a fingerpicker or lead player willing to sacrifice warmth for brightness I would suggest a spruce top version may be a more appropriate choice. I honestly believe this is one of the best all around sounding guitars I've ever played, and DEFINITELY the best under $1200. That includes Martins, Taylors, Alvarez, Breedloves, and others.

Having bought my D-4 used I can't speak for the factory set-up but Guild (especially pre-Fender) is known for quality. The set-up of mine at purchase was horrible, but that helped me steal it for $60 off the asking price. I had to considerably adjust the truss rod to eliminate the buzzing and dead spots which raised the action slightly higher than my ideal but that of course improves tone. I wouldn't say it's the easiest guitar I've played but the superb tone more than makes up for that. The fine-grained cedar top is bookmatched and it appears that the sides are too. The rounded back is one piece but thoughtfully chosen so the grain shows an oval knot at the high point of the bowl almost directly opposite the soundhole. The back is unbraced but the cut kerfs inside show little glue. A significant part of the neck is darker than the headstock, giving it an appearance of dirtiness or wear although it is clearly underneath the finish. Similarly the fingerboard has some uneven coloring running along the length and the top also has a couple of areas that look dirty. These are purely cosmetic flaws. The D-4 is marketed as a low-end guitar made with quality craftsmanship and quality materials but the materials may have cosmetic deficiencies that make them unsuitable for high-end guitars. I applaud Guild for their willingness to honestly market these materials that other companies may discard or sell as high-end "finished" guitars with a quick spray of colored lacquer. In truth I find the "flaws" and the simple finishes add character. The Guild craftsmen understand this and try to use the materials wisely. The length wise streaks on the fingerboard look like string wear. The discoloration on the back of the neck looks like its been played for years. The "dirt" on the soundboard looks like the player has been resting an arm there. I am grateful to be able to own such a magnificently flawed instrument.

The D-4 is an extremely solid instrument. I am primarily a strong rhythm player and I love to "beat" on this guitar because I know it will take it. The satin finish is a little thin but that allows it to breathe more and any play wear on this guitar will make it more mine. Since it's already cosmetically "flawed", and I bought it used, minor scratches and dings don't diturb me. The strap buttons, neck, bridge, tuners are all hefty and will withstand much abuse. My only concern is the rounded unbraced back and the wedge-shaped profile. Although I have no concerns about this while I am playing, a strong hard shell case is a must for transportation. Unfortunately I have been unable to find one at a reasonable price. It's hard for me to justify a $200 case for a $400 guitar and the distinctive shape makes mail order cases impossible...I know because I've tried. The only problem I've had is the black plastic heel cap came off. I simply glued it back on and it hasn't come off since.

I have never had to have it repaired. I have no idea about a warranty. Although I had faith in Guild, I wonder how Fender will stack up to them if repairs are ever needed.

I have been playing guitar for around twenty-five years, mostly on crappy cheap guitars except for the monthly trip to the music stores. I can tell you that the Guild D-4 is the best deal around. It qualifies as a cheap guitar but certainly not as a crappy one. I do however have eclectic tastes. I prefer warmth to power, sensitivity to speed, and integrity to flash. This guitar offers tone and simplicity and incredible versatility according to one's playing style. It will do what you want it to do...and if you have to use force to do it, it will not be harmed. I am sure there are nicer guitars out there. I'm sure I would like to have a Martin D-28 or a Gibson Dove. But I'm also sure I'd be nervous leaving them in my house everyday, or leaving them on my guitar stand in the living room where I could reach for them at any time. Another thing I can tell you is that this guitar has INSPIRED me. It helped me find and identify my true playing style...a funky jazz/blues/motown chording that I wasn't even approaching with my many other guitars. My Strat, my Epiphones, my Ibanezes, my classicals, my twelve string, my first guitar (an Aria), they all seemed to have their own style that I had to fit into. This guitar fit into me. My playing and songwriting improved dramatically because of this guitar. Of course this doesn't mean I'm not interested in other guitars. As we all know there is no one PERFECT guitar...that's why we have to have so many! I do wish the action could be lowered a tad without bringing back the buzzes but...by the way it makes bottleneck playing and alternate tunings and capoing a breeze! I believe these guitars originally sold at around $600-$700. I would gladly pay up to $800 to replace the one I have now, but the good news is they are overlooked by most people because of their simplicity and lack of flash. I think I could easily find another used one for $400 or less.

Bought new in 1994. I have played other D-4s that were all good, but this one stood out. I love the plain looks although after 12 years of banging around, the satin finish has some scratches, but that's part of the character. I have added an LR Baggs Dual Source pick up and couldn't be happier with the sound I get whether at church or a coffee house gig.

This guitar is perfect for me. It fits my musical style as well as my aesthectic. I play everything from power worship, blues, singer songwriter, folk, hard/medium strumming, fingerpicking, and lead. It truly does it all but excells in strumming with a rich full sound that sustains for days!!!

Like I said I've had it for 12 years and the only problem I had was replacing the stock saddle when I had the LR Baggs installed. The original would not seat properly.

I think my son will end up with this guitar someday and he wasn't even born until 2003. I've used it on numerous gigs and it has never failed me. I've never even broken a string. Fender doesn't know what they're doing by not continuing to make this guitar just as it was in '94. But then again Fender seems to enjoy making poorly made acoustic guitars.

I've never had to use it and don't I ever will.

I would replace this guitar if it was stolen, although I doubt I would be able to find one quite like it. The only other guitar I even want is a Taylor 414ce and that costs 3 1/2 time what this one did.

Westerly, RI, US-made guitar, '97ish. Same spec as the others. No frills dreadnought with fantastic Grover tuners.
Although not flashy, does the job brilliantly.

Sounds beautiful. I play rock, country, folk, picking style, everything really. It has a huge deep sound with lots of sustain, which suits me fine. It's particularly good for rhythm playing, but with some nice Martin SP's on, leads well too.

Decent action/set-up, no complaints.
I like the look of it. See it in action on the photos page of www.thewisemen.net

I bought this in early '98, and have successfully played live with it on numerous occasions, as well as recorded with it. I even took it to India with me - in a gig-bag(!) so it's got a few battle scars, but is solid, durable and reliable. When I got back to England, it was still in tune!

Never had to trouble them.

I've been playing for about 10 years, I've got a Guild T-100, Epiphone G400, Fender Jazz Bass, Epiphone SG Bass, Levin Mandolin, HH Combo. I played an E chord on this and knew I had to have it. Especially for the price, it's great, I'd happily get another.

Bought in early 1999. Features are per other reviewers.
Mine is the "HG" (high-gloss) finished model.
The materials and tuners are of very good quality for
this price range.
The look of the guitar is plain, but not "Tacoma" plain
(read: not so plain as to look ugly.)
The dealer had the guitar on the wall at $600.00. With case
it would have been $685. Because I'd recently made another
big-ticket purchase, he sold it to me with a nearly-identical
non-factory case for $575, in tax-free New Hampshire.

I like to play standard big first-position chords, along
with single string leads. When I want to whack a chord and
let it ring, this guitar is the ticket -- the chord just
keeps on coming, probably due to the rounded, unbraced back.
For faster chording, the sound can get a bit "swimmy" -- like
when you set a reverb's decay to long, and the new sound
gets masked somewhat by the tail of the last sound. Palm
muting and string choking is necessary on faster songs to
keep the attack of the chord intact.
The resonant box makes the D4 a tricky guitar to record. Solo
it's fine, but it can really crowd a mix if you can't tame the
overtones. Again: Mute and choke, and you'll be fine.
All that having been said, though, it sounds better than
most guitars at up to double its price. The nicer Gibsons,
Taylors, and Martins are a cut above, but the D4 kicks ass
on all of those manufacturer's models in the under-$1200
range (w/ the possible exception of the Taylor 314, which is
still at least $300 more than the Guild.)
Good overall balance, long sustain, good initial note definition.

Aah...
The factory setup stunk. The nut was poorly cut (sharp 1st-
position notes because the slots weren't deep enough.) The
bridge saddle was too high, was made from vinyl-comb plastic,
and was leaning at about a 20 degree angle towards the
soundhole. This was making all the strings shorter than they
needed to be, leading to horrible out-of-tuneness. I had
brought a tuner to check the guitar out in the store ('coz
you can easily be fooled by a guitar strung to less than
full pitch) but I had mistakenly assumed that the difficulty
tuning at the store was because the guitar had only just been
tuned to pitch, and was not yet "settled-in." Live and learn.
Finally, there were two frets that were high on the bass
side, leading to notes fretting-out. All correctable, but
I have to say I was disappointed to find so many problems
at one time, no matter how small.
The saddle in particular was really bad, and had me worried
that the slot had been cut incorrectly. Fortunately, it turned
out that it was just too soft, and was bending, in what was
otherwise a correctly-cut slot.
So off it went to my setup guy, who installed a beautifully
cut, hand-made, intonated saddle from cow bone. He dressed the
frets, corrected the nut, and voila! All the potential I'd
heard in the guitar was now reality, and then some. The
saddle made a world of difference in the tone. Since then,
I've just had to crank the truss rod once or twice when the
seasons change, to get the neck action right for seasonal
humidity changes.
The rest of the guitar (box, top, neck, etc) was beautifully
finished -- no orange-peeling in the clear coat, no goopy
balls of brace glue, no poor interior workmanship on the
bridge plate, no fit problems or neck angle issues. I have
to dock some points for the setup, which should have been
better, but the basic guitar was very well constructed.

It's solid. The back is unbraced, but since it's laminated
wood, it is highly unlikely to break. For an acoustic, it
has real heft.

My service guy is a local Fender / Guild certified guy. The
work he did was not warranty work, but he's trustworthy.
He is willing to act as an advocate for his customers,
so Fender doesn't just blow us off. That's a big plus.
His grade is high, but I can't rate Fender.

I've played for a long time, and I like my D4HG a lot.
One word to the wise: The guitar's box is deeper than a
standard dreadnought, so be sure to try it out in your
standard playing position, and play it for a good while.
You may find that the right-arm position causes fatigue
because of the reach required.
I play mine seated, with the guitar facing up slightly
(the T-Bone Walker position) so I'm fine with it, but
do give it a thorough test-drive to see if it suits you.
(Other players have mentioned the right-arm thing to me.)
That having been said, it's an excellent value in its
price range -- better than the cheap Martins, and by
far better than, for instance, a $700 Alvarez I played at
the same store. It's a big, bold-sounding beast if you
can take the size.

1980 jet black Guild D-4 dreadnought acoustic/electric, made in da States, has some sort of pickup, a piezo i believe, but an early one. Incredible guitar. Solid top, rosewood if i'm not mistaken. There are no controls (which is the only drawback to this stellar guitar). The jack is located on the butt of the guitar, on (in? with?) the strap button. The fretboard is rosewood, as is the neck too! The tuners are a riot--the thing looks like some 80s wanna-be metalhead bought it and thrashed it around for a while after taking off the tuner covers, but they're great.

whoooooooooahhh. Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful. This absolutely versatile guitar has done everything i've ever asked it to. i play whatever i feel, which ranges from jazz (but krazy stuff, miles, chick corea, etc) to blues (it does the bottleneck thing wonderfully, along with regular fretted blues) to rock to folk-y stuff to country-esque stuff to my own stuff (which i still haven't been able to classify, haha). manages to be rich and bright at the same time. it does everything from really quite subtle quiet stuff to shredding--sounds slightly similar (alliteration!) to Tim Reynold's guitar on the dave and tim live at luther college album (but don't let that turn you off to the guitar if you hate dave--it's a magical axe.

i can't really tell much about this, because it was 22 years old when i got it, but if after 22 years it still plays, feels and sounds perfect!!!, then Guild must've done a damn good job.

a little story. i spent the summer in Chicago (yeah!) playin gigs, and ended up having to fly home to new york. i took this thing on a commercial airliner wrapped in bubblewrap, and it sounds better than it ever did. i gig constantly and play real hard--this amazing guitar might be made out of granite! unbelievably reliable, solid, etc...perfect.

n/a...not that i think i'd ever have to deal with Guild. it's that well built.

been playing a few years, and this guitar has adjusted itself (as if by magic) to the changes i've made in playing style, likes, dislikes, etc...if it were stolen i think i would break down and cry and be incredibly unhappy for a large number of days. compared to other guitars--feels more comfortable and more natural than many (much more expensive) Martins and Taylors i've played, and sounds better than them too...i recommend it without reservation.

Not sure when it was made, although I assume it was the last batch. The Fender people don't make them anymore. Solid spruce top, mahogany sides, shaped back which is some kind of ply I guess.
Satin finish. Tortoise shell scratchy. Very simple, just how I like. Very clean. No visible flaws of anykind. Well put together.
Came with Guild hardcase. I give 10, because nothing wrong with it. It delivers what it is meant to.

I play fingerstyle blues, alt country (whatever that means), and folky kind of acoustic stuff. Sound is what i'm after. You can really have a decent whack at it and it never buzzes. Brilliant for my needs.

Action is slightly high at 12, but playability not effected. Barre chords are a dream. Satin finish is very simple, but clean. Macine heads are solid and she stays in tune with out a problem.

Live should be fantastic. Haven't amp'ed it yet, but have heard one that was set up with a fishman soundhole and it sang.

An absolute workhorse to be.

Don't know, but it is Fender now, so I wouldn't hold my breath getting a response.

Absolute pearler. To you Yankee boys and girls prob right up there for price, but believe me when I tell you it was a steal for what I paid in Australian terms. It was $800 off list.

1998 Westerly, RI, USA built dreadnought. Basically, its specifications are listed as: solid spruce top, arched mahogany back, solid mahogany sides, 1-piece mahogany neck, morado fretboard, 1 11/16" nut width, 25 5/8" scale length, rosewood bridge, standard bracing, chrome Grover tuners etc. No electronics, no fancy inlays. Nothing fancy, just a plain high quality guitar.

Nice BIG sound. Good response across the strings. Good combination of Brightness and warmth. I compared it to every acoustic I could find under $1500.00 including Gibson, Taylor, and Martin. To my ear the only thing better was a Gibson Dove (ok so the Dove is $1500+). So the D4 came home with me. I play mostly Country, with a little Blues, and Rock mixed in. The D4 responds well whether strumming, flatpicking or fingerpicking. No buzzing!!

The set-up was great off the rack, no need to adjust. Has what I call a medium-low action. Very playable but doesn't sacrifice sound. There is a slight discoloration in the Spruce top which gives it character. The bindings are flawless (no ridges like some of the higher priced guitars had). The neck, fretboard, and bridge have no issues. Overall a very well made instrument.

She seems to hold up well. I wouldn't have any misgivings about taking her up on stage as my sole support. Time will tell. I will be adding a strap button up top soon. I hate to lace up the headstock.

Haven't had to, hope I don't. Lifetime Warranty.

Been playing for 30 years, I also own a Gibson CL-20, Fender American Strat, and old Emperador Classical made in Mexico (it still plays beautifully). If my D4 were lost or stolen I would replace it and probably pay more for a used one than I did for the new one. I love the tone and sustain. I hate the fact it only has a one strap button. My favorite feature is the radius on the fretboard (playability). Comparison Gibson WM45, Songbird, Dove, Martin D-18, DM, Taylor 410, 510, Ibanez, Fender, Washburn, Hohner, Mitchell, Takamine, Tacoma (see Sound). It was less than 1/3 the cost of the only guitar I liked better. (budgets, hate 'em)

I love the laminated top on the guitar, it gives the solid top a greater ability to vibrate a generate a fuller louder sound. It was made in America and the construciton is very solid. I actualy like that the guitar isn't impelished with tons of perloid and such trim. However, I might have like to have a more decorative sound hole. However, a decorated soundhole has nothing to do with the sound does it? I like the arched back, but this is a thick guitar so if you don't like a nice big full dreadnaught, then this one may not be the one for you. The features may not be amazing, but they are perfect for what I like. It may look plain, but this thing gets the job done!

This is my dream guitar! I have literally never heard a guitar that sounded better than this one. I have played multiple Taylor or Gibson or Martin acoustics and believe me this one blows them all away. The sound is very full and is perfect for my style of playing Dave Matthew, Third Day type music all the way to blending it with electric guitars for a sound like that of Tantric. I get amazing response from this guitar and for this price I am amazed at the fact that I haven't found anything priced above that sounds better. I know I may sound like I am embellishing on this type guitar, but my D4 gives me the best acoustic sound I could imagine!!

When this guitar arrived the set up was already great. The finish was only a hand rubbed satin finish, but it looked beautiful! I love the way that this guitar both looks and feels. I have a lot of other experience friends who play music and when they have a chance they are playing this thing. The neck is extremely playable for an acoustic and the setup is very natural. I have never had any problems with breaking strings on this guitar because of a bad bridge or poor neck peice, everything on this guitar seem to be built for pure prefection and you can tell. The guitar didn't come with a pickup, but I had one installed, and it works and sounds great.

This is the only acoustic guitar I own and I am not worried a bit. I am in a travelling Christian band, and this thing sees the stage, and has never given me problems! It has gotten dropped, dinked, and knocked, but the thing is still as solid as the day I bought it.

Haven't had to deal with them once and don't expect to!

Great guitar. ALll I could ask for in an acoustic!

Spruce top 2001 model. Came with Guild Hardshell case. A plain Jane Guitar with beautiful tone. Kind of like the mousy librarian type with glasses who when you get her naked with her hair down and glasses off.. wow.. well you get the picture

Rich sound. I play Jazz, acoustic blues, classical and some bluegrass on it.

Action is a bit high. (I,m spoiled by my les paul custom fretless wonder). Fit and finish is of high quality.

I had a guild m-20 back in the 60's that was indestructable. I'd bet this guitar will be similar.

n/a

Been Playing about 34 years. I have a 71 Les Paul Custom, a 89 American Standard Strat and an 82 handmade classical by Michael Thames. This guitar has been discontinued so grab it if you can. It sounds great and the price is reasonable. Guild guitars are not as collectable as Gibsons and Martins but soon will be.

made in 2001, made in USA, 20 low frets, solid top, look at other reviews for the rest of the details. Very classy guitar. (six because there are no features really on it)

The sound is really good. Can be mellow and if you jump on it a little you get some nice bright tones. The bass is nice, not the most treble but it is still very good sounding. I like to play Dave Mathews type music and of course my own stuff, and it suits it all very well. Sounds a lot like a Martin.

The action is a tad high for my taste but still low enough so I think I'll leave it alone. I didn't inspect the guitar but from what I have seen so far it is pretty damn good.

Okay, for some reasons, this guitar seems kind of flimsy. I think it is because it is really light, and the finnish on it is a hand rubbed natural finnish and really soft. It seems to be made well so I think w/ some care it will be just fine.

I got it today for Christmas and have had it for a whole four hours so I don't know about customer support. Hopefully I won't have to find out...

I've been playing intensly for about seven years. I have another acoustic guitar but it is really cheap crap. I have three electric guitars, half stack, etc... If it were stolen or lost, well, it won't get stolen or lost so I don't have to worry about what I would do. I wish it had a pickup on it, single cut away, and that's about it. GOOD ACOUSTIC GUITAR!

Mine was made in 96 or thereabouts. Simple on features. Just what you need and nothing more. Would be great if it had a cutaway and electronics. But then it wouldn't cost under 600 bucks, would it?

Amazing for fingerpicking and picking with a light guage pick. It doesn't have a lot of high end and can be a bit boomy at times. I find that playing with more finesse and using a lighter guage pick worked wonders for the tone. Very full sound that I can't find from any other manufacturer or model for under $1000. Absolutely amazing. Sit down with one. This guitar resonates beautifully and it's resonating even better with age. Tuners are awesome. The sound is inspiring. If I get this guitar in the zone as far as tuning goes, I'll spend 5 hours playing and it will feel like 1 hour.

I don't remember how well it was set up when I got it. must've been good because I've never had it set up since buying it and it's been 4 years and the thing is still great. No finish flaws or sloppiness. Very simple finish, but flawless. Action is probably just a little high, but that just makes the guitar sound better and builds those finger muscles!

I've dropped it a few times. a couple of very minor dings but no real problems. I think this thing will last for a very long time. But it is an acoustic, so be careful!

never dealt with them./

I've been playing for about 12 years. I've owned about 7 different electrics in that time, including Gibson, Parker, and Fenders. This is the first and only acoustic guitar I've owned and it is by far my most satisfying purchase. I am in love with this guitar and one day plan on buying a high end guild with the fancy inlays and the onboard electronics. But I WILL NEVER PART WITH THIS GUITAR. NEVER. I absolutely love it.

This is just a sad follow up, to all the fine praise for the Guild D-4. Guild it seems no longer offers this guitar for sale, along with the D-25 too. The D-4 will be sadly missed by us that own, and know this guitar, for it's price and quality. I am scrambling now to buy another D-4. I wonder if Fender had somthing to do with this also, since they are the owners of Guild.

I bought this D-4 NT the first year Guild came out with it- which I believe was 1988?- and wanted to add the perspective of a guitar that has seen A LOT of playing time. The other reviews will give you most the spec's. This is a stripped down Guild- low cost, low features, low aesthetics- but quality was not sacrificed where it counts. Plays and sounds just like the spendy ones. The grover tuners have been wonderful, it still stays in tune for days at a time. The NT is a satin finish, which may be my only regret- hard to keep up, it has dulled over the years. Not noticeable on the dark mahogany, but is on the spruce.

This guitar has a very warm, resonate, beautiful sound with a lot of sustain, but because it is not very bright, the sound does not carry. Alright by me, I'm not a fan of twangy guitars anyways. Keeping fresh strings on it helps the volume immensley.

The factory set up was very good. The action was great, though about 3 years ago I needed to bring it down just a bit- not atypical. That's the only service I've needed to perform on this one in 12 years. The frets have held up really well after (as I said) LOTS of hours of heavy use. They have another 10 years in them, I'm sure. The one I chose (after playing about 6 of them) has a slightly improperly bookmatched top, but I loved the sound more than the looks on this one, so I went with it. But I COULD have chosen a perfect one, so I certainly won't take off for it.

Here's where I've been most impressed- this is the acoustic I grew up with- and I've treated it pretty badly. Lots of summer camp song-leading and camping trips have put it through many a bump and bruise, not to mention any regard for humidity and drastic temperature changes. This was long before I cared about any of that stuff. Aside from the scratches, dents, and a few hairline cracks in the finish, it has held up amazingly well. Especially with the set up. Some of my other acoustics treated more lovingly have not. sounds wonderful, plays great. It's probably lost some resonance, but I have never compared it to a new one.

Never had to deal with them, which is a GOOD thing.

I've been playing for 16 years, I have a Takamine, a Tanara, and had an Ecko, an 2 electrics (not applicable) and I spend much more time playing this than anything else. I love the durability, regret the satin finish decision, and I love Guild. Every time I'm in a music store I like to check them out, and they always get me. I'd have no reservations about going Guild again. For the money, and the sound, it's a good one.

MADE 1999,U.S.A. Grade "A"Solid Spruce Top. Solid mahogany sides, laminated arched mahogany back,one piece mahogany neck with rosewood fretboard. Satin finish, Dreadnought body, rosewood bridge. Grover tuners, thin neck.No accessories.

Great cord struming guitar, and finger picking. Has a loud low end sound, rich and full but not bright. I use medium gauge Martin SP Accoustic strings.

The factory action was a bit high, and I had the neck adgusted to lower the strings. The top was bookmatched, bridge routed properly and no factory flaws. Finish and wood were great. All hardware fine. Nut and saddle fine.

This is a heavy well made guitar,and stays in tune with hard playing. The hardware looks and feels very durable. The satin finish would be hard to predict for durability, I'm sure Guild has planned finish durbility in mind. I purchased this guitar new and have owned it for over a month now, with steady playing almost every day. I would and have used it without a backup on gigs so far. I also own a Martin Dreadnought, but find i am playing the D-4 more. The Martin I have has a richer sound, but the D-4 with it's short deep tone is very appealing, hard for me to leave it alone. (I will install a strap button soon for convenience.) I'm just impressed with the quality of this guitar. And i'm really trying to be critical, honest.

I talked with Guild on E-Mail with questions, and they were very helpful, even giving me names and addresses of Factory Warranty reps in my area for future reference. The D-4 is under lifetime warranty to original owners.

Iv'e been playing over 50 years. I have a Martin D-28, Gibson J-45,and Epiphone rosewood dreadnought. All my questions were asked by Mars sales people when I bought the guitar, they were also playing pros in the Kansas City area. I would most certainly replase this guitar if stolen or lost. I just love the short deep sound of the D-4, and I can't say I hate anything about it except for the weight and heft of the guitar, but thats no real problem. I compared this guitar with the Martin DX-1, DM, Alvarez PD-100, and Ibanez Artwoods. The only thing I would share with anyone is that this D-4 is a sleeper, more players should know about it.I'm a retired aircraft mechanic for a major airline, and I do have an eye for quality.

Plain Jane guitar. Solid spruce top, solid mahogany sides and back. Grover tuners.

Nice, bright sound - came from the factory with light strings. I am primarily a strummer, and it sounds great. A little heavy on the bass, but it is a Guild. So far, no complaints about the sound.

No adjustments needed from the box. Action was right where I like it. No flaws noticeable. Nice, mellow smell to it. Very well made for the price.

I've owned it for about three months, and play it quite frequently. Everything looks as if I'll have this guitar a while. I've always wanted to buy a Guild - started with the low end of the spectrum. Don't regret the purchase at all. It does sound loud when miked (played in a church setting).

Lifetime warranty - what else can I say.

Been playing for about 20 years. I am a musical director for a Catholic church, and like to use different styles of playing. This guitar has not failed me. I own a Yamaha for everyday use, but wanted something hand-made. I also own a Takamine 12-string, Gibson Gospel, and an Ovation 6-string. I was kind of disappointed it didn't come with a case or gig bag. I didn't know if I would like the satin finish, but I have grown to like it. It does hide dings pretty well. I compared this to a Martin D-15, and a Gibson Working Man - for the price and quality I went with the Guild, and I'm glad I did. I was looking for something that was hand-made, good quality but a low price, as I play my guitar 4-5 times a week with practices and liturgies. I highly recommend it.

1999 Guild D4. Solid spruce top, solid mahogany sides, arched mahogany back. One piece mahogany neck/Guild logo tuning machines. There is very little decoration on this guitar (minimal rosette and binding), and it is all natural (no stain), satin finish. Even with the plain looks it is a clean impressive looking instrument.

I am a fairly new player. This is a very mellow tone. It has plenty of volume. I compared this D4 to Larivee D03, Martin D16GT, Martin 00018, and D18 and to my taste, this sounded the best, especially for the price.

Set up was fine. I haven't had to tune it since I bought it three weeks ago. It appears to have thin finish (Guild says it is a hand rubbed satin finish);it looks good and complements the natural look of the guitar.

To new to tell

Nothing so far

I have only been playing 6-7 months. I started on an old Morris (000-18 copy). Before buying the D4, I tried out many comparable guitars and even other Guilds (including a D4ec) This particular guitar just sounded better than any of the others, including some higher end Martins. It is also easy to play-the neck fits my rather small hands very well. I would certainly buy this guitar again!

American-made dreadnought with solid spruce top and solid rosewood sides and back (nicely figured). Satin finish. Grover tuners came stock.

First "quality" acoustic I've owned. Nice balance to the sound, though the bass notes can sometimes overpower the high-end when doing Travis picking (probably need to keep an eye on technique because of this). Bass notes good but not as round as on the better boutique acoustics, but it's aging very well and the bass keeps getting better. I had tested a few upscale Martins before buying this and actually preferred the Guild's sound to some really pricey offerings. Otherwise, a very nice balance. Strummed chords, even the more complex ones, some full and defined. Can get wide variety of sounds depending on microphone positioning. Good projection.

This has a Plain Jane look to it, without fancy binding to speak of. Still, it's a very handsome guitar. Frets, bracing, etc are all very nicely done. Came with a tiny chip on the lower bout, but nothing to worry about. The wood is well finished in satin. I've had this guitar for a few years, so the satin finish is starting to get a polished look from use and getting shiny, but it just adds some character rather than looking funky. Set-up was good, but I've had to have another one done since. Lowering the action has made it much better for fingerpicking. However,since lowering the action, I've noticed that the guage of pick used for strumming makes a huge difference in the sound. Light picks give off a nice boost in the high notes while still retaining some good bass definition. Medium to heavy picks muddy things up a bit.

Again, I've had this guitar for about six or seven years and its held up very well, only improving with age. No reliability problems to speak of. The low E tuning machine is starting to show a tiny bit of play in its action, but nothing which needs work right away. I would use this on a gig without hesitation.

NA

I've been playing for about 15 years now. I also own a Fender Strat, a Fernandez Tele, a Fender P-Bass, as well as other studio gear. I've also owned a Gibson Explorer and another Fender Strat which was stolen out of my trunk. The D-4 is a rock solid acoustic. Unbelievable price for the quality of the materials and for its sound. It's one that I'll hold on to for the rest of my life and play even if/when I own pricier acoustics. I'd buy another if just to set up in alternate tunings. Nothing bad to say and everything to recommend it. Also, the Guild case that it came with is gorgeous and solid.

I was told this is a 97 model, but haven't researched the serial number. USA made solid spruce top, mahogany back (arched), neck and sides. Rosewood fingerboard and bridge. Satin finish Dreadnought with black body binding and tortise pickguard. Chrome Grover tuners. Thin 20-fret neck joins body at 14.

This is the first solid-top acoustic I've owned and I love the sound. My other acoustic guitars are an early Applause deep-bowl and a Yamaha acoustic-electric. This Guild just sings to me. I am amazed at the clarity and the separation between the individual strings in the sound. I feel like my playing is going to really have to improve to do this guitar justice. I should admit I have not played anything in the $1000+ range, so I may be giving the D4 too much credit, but it sounds great to me. My playing style on the acoustic is ballads and folky rock with a bit of fingerpicking thrown in.

The action is impressively low and easy, with no buzz anywhere. From my experience with acoustics, you will usually find a way to make them buzz at some point, but this one is clean everywhere, no matter how hard I strum. The neck was a little bowed when I purchased it, but a slight adjustment to the truss rod sorted that quickly. The fit and finish appear top-notch, and I couldn't find any defects, other than a ding in the top put there by the previous owner. There is a rough spot on the top side of the fingerboard, but it isn't noticeable when playing. The top was nicely bookmatched, including a 2 inch long "feature" in the wood under the bridge that is mirrored on each side. I like the satin finish, as it really lets the wood show.

I've only had the guitar for a couple of weeks, so can't really comment on durability. I think the satin finish should serve to hide minor scratches and dings more than a high-gloss finish would. I usually tend to baby my guitars anyway.

No idea. I have heard that Guild offered a lifetime warranty before the Fender acquisition, and will continue to honor that in the future.

I am thrilled with the D4 so far. I think you would be hard-pressed to find a solid-top, USA-made acoustic with features and finish at this level for the money I paid. And besides, the more important subjective value I feel I got is incredible. I just love the way it sounds and plays. When I tried one at Guitar Center, I fell in love with the sound and look, but was a little put off by the $549 asking price (hey, I'm on a budget). When I found this one that was a year old and had basically been stored for a year for $300, I jumped on it. I think this guitar is a phenomenal value, even at full retail.
My other gear includes a 98 Mexi-tele, a Yamaha acoustic-electric, and a Slammer strat copy. I have been playing off and on for 16 years, and have recently rededicated myself to improving my skills and my songwriting.

This is an American made dreadnought with mahogany back and sides and spruce top. It has a mahogany neck with rosewood fretboard and Grover tuners. The neck is thin and very easy to play. The entire guitar has a satin finish and though quite plain , it is a very nice looking guitar. There were no included accessories.

I looked at Guild as I had owned a D-25 through the 1970's and was happy with it for the most part. The D-25 did have some problems , though , such as unlevel frets making it hard to tune ,and an overall dull sound due to the mahogany top. The D-4 I bought does not have these problems , however. The frets are nicely done and the sound is clear with more high overtones. It is very responsive to picking pressure and sounds good played lightly ; it can be shimmery when strummed with a light pick , which I like ; but really shines when finger picked. The dynamics are excellent making for an expressive performance . If you are an emotional player on a budget check out the D-4. It has class beyond its price.

The factory set up is just right for me. The action is very much like an electric , in my opinion. The workmanship is quite good. Again , it's a plain guitar , but classy and well made.

I would take the guitar with me anywhere.

I have never had any reason to call Guild.

I have played on and off for 30 years , acoustic and electric. If this guitar were lost I would try to replace it right away . I bought it to replace a stolen Guild. I love the looks , sound and playability of this guitar, It's hard to put down. I looked at a lot of guitars and in the same price range I found an Epiphone or two and a Takimine that could compare. The Guild won on sound dynamics and value.

1995 Model - purchased new
Dreadnought size.
Arched mahogany back. Solid mahogany sides and neck. Solid spruce top. Rosewood bridge and fingerboard. Quality hard case - heavy!
Finish is a hand rubbed satin finish - I really like it.
Plain jane features, simple dot inlays on fingerboard, no fancy binding.

I really love the sound. I purchased this guitar in a "blind" test of guitars from $500 to $1500. It came down to the Guild, a Taylor, and a Martin. I liked the volume and low-end of the Guild - some folks don't like this sound. I've been told that it is a little "boomy" for recording.
The tone is pretty even through the range, but you need to show some restraint if you are used to really strumming hard, the low-end will overwhelm the high end.
With anything less than medium strings, this guitar sounds tinny. I like John Pearse Phosphor Bronze Wound Medium's.
I play a wide variety, from hard strumming Neil Young songs to lighter finger-style works.

The factory action from the factory was quite high, although the set-up was otherwise perfect. The shop owner, an accomplished player encouraged me to play a higher action than I was used to - it really has improved my sound and technique. Several years later, I am debating whether to have the action lowered.
The fit and finish is great. The only flaw was a rough fret that was fixed before delivery in about 15 seconds.

After three years, I'm still very pleased with this guitar.
The finish has held up perfectly. The satin finish hides small dings really well.
I've never broken a string on this guitar, despite my hard playing. (I am a perfectionist when I string my guitar).
Like all quality guitars, it is sensitive to changes in humidity. Players moving up from a plywood acoustic really need to educate themselves regarding care and feeding.
My Guild stays in tune forever. Only changes in temperature and humidity really affect the tuning.
I have a friend who has played the same model 5 nights a week, for three years with few complaints. I don't know what electronics he has installed, but he has overcome the "boomy" complaint I have heard from others (non-owners?).

Prior to the Fender buy-out, only the better shops carried Guilds. As a result, you could count on good service. As they really weren't heavily discounted when I purchased mine, you really expect a high level of customer service.
Although the Fender buy-out has increased the number of outlets, I'm not sure what it has done to customer service.
The shop that I bought it from offered me a free set-up after I got used to the guitar.
The same dealer also handled a warranty for a friend that really didn't deserve it, as he really abused his guitar.
Hat's off to Wilcutt's Guitars, Lexington KY.

This guitar is now available new for under $600 from dealers and Musician's Friend.
I've been playing for three years. This is my second acoustic - my first was an inexpensive Samick. I also play a Peavey Cropper Classic through a Mesa Boogie Subway.
I would buy this guitar again or a similar Guild with more features (electronics).