Product: Ovation 1615-4 Pacemaker Electric/Acoustic 12 String
Price Paid: US $625
Submitted
12/07/1999
at
12:58pm
by
Jim Carrier
Email: Carrierz<at>Bellsouth dot net
Features
:
9
Made in 1973 in U.S. by Ovation Guitars. Guitar has not been manufactured since 1977. It has 21 frets, and a solid spruce top with standard ovation sound hole in center. Contains the deep back bowl. Neck is trussed, and adjustable. No warp on this model. Excellent action, and easy to play. Has one volume control knob, but no equalizer as exhibited on newer models. Pickup is by Ovation, and is permanmently (and invisibly) mounted in the bridge, and has great sound when amplified. I play it through an old Fender Princton Reverb. The neck is solid mahogony. There are no scratches or cuts on the finish, neck or head. The tuners are original Ovation, and guitar maintains excellent tune. I have the original hardshell case, a tan brown color, and in great condition.
Sound
:
8
This guitar sounds great for solo performances, or as accompaniment to others. Sound is full and bright, as through my Fender Princton Reverb amp. Larger amps should produce even a better sound. If you like to pick, this guitar can be done (unlike other 12 strings I have owned).
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
The action set up from the factory is low, (without fretting out), which makes it a joy to play. The finish continues to be excellent, and I purchased the guitar new in 1973.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I have played this guitar in front of many live audiences (bars, church, weddings, etc.) and it will withstand any playing you can give it. The hardware is all original, and is still in great condition. The finish, as noted above, is in excellent condition and needs nothing. Everything on the guitar is solid. It is dependable.
Customer Support
:
10
Ovation is great to deal with. Call Kim Keller at (800) 552-4681 Extension 125. I just reviewed this guitar with him. Most of the time these instruments go from $425 in fair shape to $700 in great shape, with case. My guitar would be in the $700 range because of its condition for the discerning player.
Overall Rating
:
9
I have been playing guitar for 36 years, and own many other guitars. I have one other 12 string that is also an Ovation (Custon Legend). I love playing this instrument, but do not need two 12 string guitars. I would purchase this instrument again today if I had no 12 string guitars. It will make a great instrument for the discerning player. I have it priced less ($625 with case) than its appraised value ($700).
