Rainsong WS 1000 Acoustic

It???s been awhile since anyone has put up anything on this guitar, so I thought I would chime in. The price I paid was considerably less then any price I???ve seen here.

The finish is an all black carbon/graphic body. This one must be the ???no frills??? model as it only has white outlining around the body. No outlining around the sound hole. Simple white dot inlays on the fingerboard. It does have a black pick guard.

This is an early model based on the serial number, but was made in Woodinville, WA. (not Hawaii) which is how I came across this maker as they are only 10 miles from my home.

It has what is listed as the premium on-board electronics made by Fishman with onboard turner and some EQ adjustments.

This guitar has the original N1 style neck; which is thinner then the updated N2 version (the N2 also offers a truss adjustment, not the N1). The thinner neck was more desirable for my needs as this guitar is for my 16YO daughter to learn on.
The guitar was used when I bought it and had some blemishes. No scratches or cracks.
The frets didn???t show any signs of ware.

Mine came with the original deluxe gig bag.
The pawn shop also threw in a Line-6 Spider-2 15watt amp.

The sound is nothing short of stunning. Crisp and clean. Better then what I had anticipated.

It has been a long time since I played a guitar, but I found it easy to find my notes. I didn???t get any fret buzzing. I had my daughter play a few chords and her smaller hands could move around okay. The neck is straight. I haven???t found any excessive tuning issues.

It appears that this guitar has seen some miles; however, is still in great shape. Everything on it is still tight and sturdy. For what I know about carbon fiber, this guitar should stand up to most environments, on the road. I have no concerns on this.

Can???t speak directly about this one yet. I did write Rainsong an email asking if they would consider selling a factory second at a reduced price. Nope, they answered and they suggested Craig???s List or Ebay. Now, I know that not every guitar they make is considered show room standard. It wouldn???t hurt their reputation to offer a few of these for a marked down price for us less fortunate people who can???t afford $2,500 (just my opinion).

Okay, the over all rating.
I started researching Rainsong about 3 years ago. I knew, by most feedback, that it was the guitar I wanted to get and with my daughter asking for lessons and my current guitar just too large for her I knew I needed to get busy and find something.
I stumbled across this one in a pawnshop in downtown Seattle with an asking price of $800. They took $700. That is half for what I???m finding these online for even today.
$700 for a Rainsong!!! Consider me tickled pink. This guitar is everything that it was hyped about. Maybe the frets will ware down before their time like someone had posted; that is yet to be seen. As it stands right now, based on price..10.

I have one of the early WS-1000's made in Hawaii, purchased in 2000. Paid $1900 for it. Has fishman electronics.

I've played Folk, Bluegrass, Jazz, Rock with this guitar and it fit's all styles very well. I normally play direct into a board or recording. Bright but full sound.

Set-up very well. I've always used the same brand of strings on it (Elixir's) since getting it.

Played it now for 7 years and have not had any problem with it.

Never had to deal with the company, but I live nearby so could easily go see them

I've played for 35 years and have owned lot's of equipment. Currently have a collection of 15+ guitars. I'd buy another one if this one was lost or stolen.

This guitar is beautiful ..no doubt about it I agree with the majority of the reviews

Very clean and distinct..Almost compressed..Harmonics are great.

Action a little high ..the guitar saddle can be shaved to suit your style.. I mostly finger pick .but i like to give the Rainsong a good thack now and again and it holds up to a "T"!

Here is where I had problem. I was doing a gig and had an accident the guitar case was upright and not secure .I grabbed my case and my axe fell out maybe 6 inches at the most .I grabbed it by the neck before it hit the ground. The lower bout had split about 7 inches cleanly from where the top and the sides meet! I was furious at myself I take full responsibility for my actions . You should never treat your guitar in this fashion . However I felt that a small spill like that should not crack a guitar that I paid $3000 for. In addtion The top of the guitar is like a wafer like pattern and if you press on it with your thumb with about 10-15 lbs of pressure it will leave an indent that your are stuck with. THESE GUITARS ARE NOT AS ROAD TOUGH AS THEY ADVERTISE.

First of all Jeannie was a Doll and was sympathitic..acidents are not covered under any warrenty even 6 inch spills.They offered to look at it. However from across the border it would have been $300 each way And they said they "might fix it" For $600 BUCKS AND A MAYBE I decided to take it to my man Miles at fretworks who didi an awesome job for $100..

It is amazing instument no doubt about it.. The projected layering is a wafer type weave that once banged into or pressed it will leave a cosmetic blemish. The carbon fibre is tough that is why it split at the glue joint. Because of the money I would not replace it if it were lost or stolen. Despite the ohh and awws from my fellow musician the ticket price is not worth it

I bought this guitar in 2000, at that time I think it was then made in Hawaii. Beyond question, it is the most trouble-free guitars I've owned (Several Gibson acoustics and electrics, epiphones, Fender etc). The action was outstanding when I got it and it hasn't changed at all over the years. Weather/season changes simply have no effect on it.
Although it has no pickgard and I do get a little carried away strumming, there is no sign of wear. My thoughts are if it ever shows wear, I'll then install a thin pickgard, but I don't see this happening soon. The one that came with the guitar was way to thick for my liking and I never installed it (it came with the guitar uninstalled back then).
I've never owned a guitar that holds its tune as well as this one. The tunners are gotoh and are superb. I've never broke a string on this guitar as some have reported and I do bend and play hard at times. This unit has Fishman electronics and I did have problems and the company quickly sent me new Fishman electronics which was a piece of cake to install. This is a very comfortable guitar to play, lighter than anything I've played and very strong and durable.
The finish looks as good as the day I purchased it. I use GHS guitar gloss.

I play everything that captures my fancy. I was using a Digitech RP-200 when I played out and I had difficulty dialing in the sound I wanted. Since then I upgraded to a AG stomp and the sound is superb. Being carbon fiber, this guitar has a tendency to make you play more accurate, as mistakes seem to be applified. The sound "is" a bit different than most guitars, much cleaner than wood and considerably louder. This is not a bad thing, it is very much a guitar sound, just cleaner. This is great for finger style I might add. When playing finger style, the volume acoustically will simply surprise you. The lows are distinct and the treble is bright, very nice.
The only thing I've had to adjust to is the finish on the neck, which is not as quick and smooth as a satin finish, say like a Fender. But it's just a matter of getting used to, not really a problem but a preference.

As mentioned the action is better than any acoustic I've played. Excellent to the 12th fret. Also as I said before, the Fishman electronics did fail me (a constant hum), however, Rainsong took care of this without a hassel.

Solid guitar, very dependable. None of the shortcommings of wood (I do play wood guitars).

Best support I've had to deal with. Jean Carr? was a doll to deal with, very understanding and made every attempt to get things right. Had a Gibson SJ-200 neck go bad and it was a battle to get warranty service with it. Eventually they replaced it and it took several months in the process. A real pain.

Been playing a while, about 35 years, various styles. If stolen, I'd replace it, but not without playing it first. Having a neck that has no adjustment, I think that goes without saying. How it is when you buy it, is how it is.
The sound is unique, unlike a wooden guitar that has a tendency to deaden the sound coming out of the soundhole (it doesn't have to be like that). You really have to play one to understand the difference, the sound is very pure and unaffected, a pleasure to listen to. Until I played one, nobody could have convinced me that I would like this. :)

This is a WS-1000, purchased new less than 3 years ago, but apparently having sat in the store for up to a year before my purchase. Manufactured in Washington - not Hawaiian (early models). Fishman electronics. Gotoh tuners. Jumbo frets (standard issue). Rainsong signature case. Overall, one of the finest instruments I've played during my nearly 50 years of playing, 17 professionally. Although mostly a solid-body picker, I've switched to accoustic for personal reasons (although I still own a Strat, an Explorer, a Takamine lawsuit type, and several others).

I've played everything from surf, acid, rock, jazz, country, classical, and background music. Play a little of everything currently - personal favorites. The guitar plays it all well. Easy to play and easy to adjust to. Action doesn't match a quality solid-body, of course, but could be the best accoustic I've played. At my age this was to be my "last" guitar purchase (Ha! Fat chance!!), so I tried everything typically found on the market including Gibsons (still a favorite!), Martins (just don't dig 'em), Taylors (a fine instrument), etc., etc. Did a lot of pickin' research before spending this kind of money! Almost instantaneously chose the Rainsong. I like it! Infinitely variable electric presentation, and a booming accoustic sound with genuine projection. Nothing compares.

Excellent action all the way up the scale for an accoustic. I like the variations available between the internal mike and the bridge pick-up. Good engineering. Finish is beautiful, especially the rosette and the incredible shark inlays on the fretboard (that sold me!). A yacht-broker by profession, the inside looks just like a fiberglass boat - not much you can do with that - tacky - just don't look in there! A fantastic hardshell case. Careful with that finish - no pickguard! I do break 3rd strings with incredible regularity - sometimes even when brand new. Can't figure what the problem is, and Elixirs are supposed to be tough, but I'm a bit dismayed with a very persistent problem. I have an acquaintance who also owns one and has the identical problem. Hm-m-m! Very interesting!

Living on the gulf Coast I play outside sometimes and it is totally - totally! - unaffected by temp and humidity. ALWAYS in tune! I like that! Played one very humid everning right on the water with another fellow with a wood guitar, and his instrument did nothing but sweat and refused to stay in tune. while this guitar sweated, too, it never went out of tune. The other fellow was more than a little impressed. So was I. Carbon-Fiber will last forever and is stronger, pound-for-pound - than steel. Pretty tough instrument.

Very mixed emotions here. I wrote to the company about the 3rd string-breaking problem and they sent me a new bridge immediately, which I haven't installed. Not certain that's the problem, as I've examined the original carefully with a magnifier. While they were responsive to that problem, I've had another much more serious problem which has disappointed me immensely: premature fret wear. I play about an hour every day - sometimes a bit more. While changing strings recently I noticed the 2nd and 3rd frets were severely worn. In fact to the point that had I continued on, the instrument would have been totally unplayable in probably less than 6 months. Also noticed that about 6 more frets were quite worn. I am an accomplished player and play the entire range of the neck - not a "strummer", playing chords in the 1st position. I learned to read music at an early age and still read. I don't use a capo, but believe that a good myusician should be able to play anything in any position! So, this extraordinary wear at the 1st position was quite disconcerting. Wrote the company about it, requesting factory service, and received the most cavalier response I could have imagined! "You play a lot and simply wore it out!" And, "We don't re-fret. Take it to your local luthier." CRAP! I had a '53 Telecaster (Yes!!) that I bought quite well used in 1965, and played professionally for at least 10 years. Put a huge amount of time on that instrument and the frets were still good when I sold it in 1991. I played a top of the line Ovation for about 10 years after that and never wore it out. None of my guitrars, including numerous Gibsons, Fenders, Rickenbachers, or anything I've ever picked up had frets worn as badly as these! Appalled at the factory's rather cavalier response, and having no other recourse, and feeling quite wounded, I had a local luthier TOTALLY re-fret the guitar. The end result is that now I have a damaged guitar: re-fretted, and with some small scratches as a result of the refret job, which is unavoidable, given the extent of the repair. You simply cannot do this kind of extensive repair and not expect a nick or 2. My opinion, after playing for 50 years, is that there was a problem with the batch of fret wire. Metallurgy is not a perfect world and the metal used in the wire (IMO) was defective. The company had a fine opportunity to study a serious flaw and perhaps take corrective action, but chose to be unresponsive.

Even though I love this instrument I have serious reservations about the company's lack of customer support and CARE! Bottom line: yes I'd replace it if stolen - can't find a better one. But be prepared to have your heart broken when your baby needs major surgery! And don't expect to have your complaint fall on sympathetic ears! My Overall Rating is lower due to this single poblem. Without it, I would rate it an easy 10.

Purchased/made in 2000 so has Fishman electronics

Sound is crisp, rich, full both miked and direct

Setup perfectly - action a little high - adjusted by putting slightly lighter gauge strings - finish perfect

Owned and played now for more than 5 years, no problems

I toured the factory in Maui in 1998 and was sold on the guitars, purchased one 2 years later

great guitar

completed March 11, 2005 made in USA....you all know about the features already.....man it is ugly!

Almost 50 years playing and this guitar makes me sound better and better

No amps solid acoustic but I'm told best thru a PA 2nd best small bass amp solid stste

It has been said this guitar is really a cannon..I will not disagree

LOVE THE SOUND ....THE PLAYABILITY....Rainsong is smart guitar came with Elixer 12'S so I have also learned about their strings and it cost me nothing.......IT"S UGLY.......MAN

Perfect out of the box....and I do mean perfect...no surprises!
It's UGLY!

Yet to gig with it but blew every other guitarist away at an acoustic reherdal with a half dozen guitars playing a various times,,,cut through the mix like a hot knive thru butter

This is one heck of an ugly guitar In my opinion but no one has agreed with me in eleven months.

solid like a tank...only guitar needed for any gig ....I perform in a situation with solid bodys by direction.. we do a lot of trading instruments on stage (I also perform on bass) me bandmates are happy with their instruments so for harmonies sake ........

They emailed information on ocassions,,,very responsive...Jeannie I believe.

playing soon 50 years...currently interested in dumping 1996 sg 61 reissue finally going fender strat or doI want a tele.....?

...if it were stolen I'd replace immediately..

it's the uglyist looking rocket ship but the sound and feel is out of this world....necks got space grease on it (so fast and smooth)...

I compared this to everything out there for a decade..this guitar replaced a 1988 guild D25 ...was offered the Martin Dragon... tryed the Taylors...Martins...all sizes...shapes...hundreds of them...only had to play this for 45 minutes ,,,never played or heard anything like it.....and would not touch this guitars sound....the versitility..

Ordered new,recieved in December of 2005, serial# shows it was made in October of 2004. Sat on a shelf for a year! All carbon fiber. Braggs electronics, nice TKL case.

Wonderful acoustic sound made my wooden guitars sound muddy and dull. Played through my PA , with a flat eq setting, it took 10 minutes of playing with the EQ, notch filter and phase switch to get rid feedback. Once dialed in man could I get loud, and oh what a joyous, full, clear tone. This thing came alive pluged in. OPen D and Open Em tunings where breath taking!!!

Action was GOD AWFUL. 3/64th higher at the 12th fret then Rainsong factory specs. (I called them and asked what spec was as I could not believe this guitar could be right. Factory is 4/64 to 6/64 at 12th fret.) 6/64th factory spec action is still high!!!! If this thing was truely made/machinedas they say those strings should damn near lay on the frets without buzzing!!!!!!! Take a que from Carvin. Carbon fiber had a big wrinkel in the pattern on the bottom edge, in the middle of the neck the carbon was frayed and showed, 3 super tiny scratches in the back. Looking inside the sound hole showed lots of ugly glueing and overlaying at the top and bottom edge of the body, as well as 2 big ass bolts for neck attachment.

No opinion here as I sent the thing back. For $2000 not only should a guitar look impeccable it should play like butter.

When I called about my action issue, they where very nice, gave the info I needed, reminded me action settings are subjective. Did offer to send me a bridge to file downand experiment with if I decided to keep the guitar. You dont buy a new Cadillac and put in a new engine!

After 37 years of playing and having built several guitars, I was looking for a guitar without the inherent problems of wood. The sound and looks of the instrument are stunning, playability is crap.

2004-2005 from Washington State. Baggs element system. Solid graphite. Came with a sleek, shark design hard shell case, Rainsong decals, and Rainsong picks, with manuals. Shark inlays on frets; beautiful and very colorful abalone inlay around sound hole. Gorgeous guitar! I'd give it a 10 if it had a clear pickguard (It has no pick guard)and a B-Band pick-up system.

My band plays everything from Bluegrass to Classic Rock. We use Fender Acoustasonic Jr's, and one Marshall acoustic amp. **Here's the kick - The sound is extraordinary! I have a Taylor 310 w/t new expression system (it's also a fantastic sound) but no one ever complimented the great sound of my Taylor. But with my Rainsong at live gigs, I've gotten several compliments on the beautiful sound! Other guitar players ask to play it, and I don't mind cuz it's built to last. I wish the on-board volume would boost the volume much more for my solos... ha ha.

The action is a little higher than my Taylor, but I don't want to lose it's volume or brightness by lowering it. I have no problem on barre chords up to the 7th fret though. The only sadness I have in this department is that when I bought it "new" at the guitar store, it had some pick scratches from being played in the store. A clear pickguard w/t plastic wrap would've protected it for my scratches only.

The guitar is great live! I've used it these past 30 days in the hot sun of County Fairs, City celebrations, Class Reunions, Company Picnics, etc. It holds up fantastically and seldom needs a tuning! I have broken strings a couple times, but my band buddy always brings 3 guitars (2 Taylors & 1 Epi). I only need to bring one guitar, and from now on (for acoustic) this is the one (my electric is a Variax 700).

Jeanne(?) is super nice and professional! She even sent me extra stickers and picks when I told her about the store scratches! They sent me a signed letter when I registered the guitar.

I've been playing for 23 years. Professionally for 10 years. If stolen, I'd pay the $500 deductible and get another WS-1000. I love the looks and enjoy the sound more & more. Others love the looks but love the sound much more. I often see people in the crowd point at my guitar and shake their heads "Yes." I wish Rainsong had a ball-cap to wear or other accessories, but they simply major on making beautiful guitars...

Built in December 2003. No need to recite the features, as all of the other reviewers have done so. Does have Fishman Prefix Stereo Blender pickup system that blows me away. I'll have to say that the Gotoh tuning machines aren't the level of quality of the rest of the guitar, and unfortunately they can't be changed, as the location of the screw on the back won't allow swapping with Schallers, which I'd much prefer.

The sound is incredible - clear and bright, but with just enough bottom end to round it out.

Seeing as I bought the guitar used, I can't say anything about the guitar's setup from the factory. When I got it, the action was way to high for me, but then I've been playing electrics primarily for 40 years. After about 15 minutes of work on the saddle, the action was right where I like it, with absolutely no buzz. The carbon fibre body is a beauty to behold, and was absolutely flawless.

I'm an in-home player, so I can't comment on its performance in a live playing setting, but it's a joy to play. I've also only owned it for about a week, but is seriously doubt that it will be nothing but rock-solid in the future.

Again, seeing as it was used, no warranty is applicable. As well, no repairs have been needed. I did contact them to register the guitar with them, and they were prompt and courteous.

As I mentioned, I've been playing for over 40 years, mostly electrics, and over that time period I've probably owned 40 or so guitars. My guitar stable now numbers about 15 guitars, of which four are acoustics (Larrivee, Martin, the RainSong, and the first guitar I ever bought, a Stella Tenor). The RainSong is probably one of my all-time favorites, though, right up with my Martin SPD-16R. I first saw a RainSong at Island Music in Kihei, Maui while vacationing, and was intrigued by the idea of a carbon fibre guitar, and when I played it, I was sold. It's not a cheap guitar, but then nothing that would be of the quality and sound that this guitar is / has would be.

2005 WS1000 w/LR Baggs element pickup...I gave this a nine, because personally for me, a two band eq just doesnt cut it. The guitar has absolutely NO wood...which means zero maintanence, zero worries. It doesn't get much better than that.

I love the way this thing sounds...plugged in and out it's amazing. Although I didn't think much of the sound when I first got it, now it's the best sounding guitar to my ears. I like it better than a lot of rosewood and koa guitar I've played. It's so expressive and well balanced. Again it may take awhile for you to really notice the huge sound that graphite gutiars make, but it's definately worth the investment. The LR baggs element is really sensitive. A small tap on the body and you'll definitely hear it coming out of your amp/PA. I was really impressed with the element pickup, prior to getting my rainsong I had a taylor 314 with a fishman prefix. I was so dissappointed that rainsong stopped making the ws1000's with the fishman stereo blend. Because of my taylor experience, I had such a strong basis toward fishmans, but everytime I plug in my baggs pick up, I forget all about the fishman prefix that was on my taylor. Like others have said it's pretty fickle and will feedback, so phase switching and notch sweeping is a must.

The action could be a tad lower. But unfortunately because there is no truss rod, the only way to adjust the action is to shave down the saddle. The finish of the guitar is epoxy so the finish is hard as rock.

The guitar is made entirely of carbon fiber. No more needs to be said. This thing is the king of the ring if it were to every rumble with other wood guitars.

I've had nothing short of a great experience dealing with the rainsong folks. Definitely a class act company.

If I had to choose one guitar to play the rest of my life it would be a rainsong ws1000, because quite frankly other wood guitars will turn to dust before this thing looses its tone and shine. I would defintely buy this guitar again, in fact I don't think I'll ever buy another wood guitar again. Composite graphite guitars are the future.

This is a 2004 ws 1000 RainSong. Includes Gotoh tuners with LR Baggs Element on board system. Of cource the whole guitar is graphite composite in Alaska that means so much. It has a Tusq bridge and nut. The jumbo frets are made of a nickle alloy. The case was made by SKB and it looks cool.

This sound is different. Like they say Mahogany has its sound Brazilian rose wood has its sound and graphite has its sound all different, but all good. This guitar is super loud and blended. compared to my Taylor 312 it has the low end that that guitar missed. It also had the high end that the 0m-15 was lacking. to me sound is some thing evdery one hears differently and has their own oppinion so in the end that you have to hear for your self.

The guitar was set up very nicely. the action is a little high for me but that can be changed by shaving the nut or the bridge. the finish is nice just like any other Rain song. if you want a guitar that looks different from you buds this may be it if you want a unique RainSong you better either be THE EDGE or have the check book.

This guitar is a life time guitar it will never have any problems with cracking or a broken truss rod. This is the guitar you can hand down to your great grand kids grand kids and it will play then like it does now. every thing is perfect on this guitar.

The Guitar has a life time warranty for the first owner. I do not for see me taking it to them to fix. but if i do i am sure it will be a nice experience. One other thing is the shop i bought it from is the best in Alaska i gave him 50 dollars told him i wanted it and i could make payments and i would try to have it paid off in two months and he put it in the case never to played by any one other than me. zumwalts music shoppe is the best.

Like i said Alaska is the worst place for a guitar i had a martin crack three times. that fear is no longer with me because of this guitar. I think this guitar is the best in the world and i would buy a new one if some one stole mine.

Made in 2001 (the last year it was made in Maui). The WS1000 is made entirely of Carbon Fiber. This model features the Fishman blender pickup (they have since moved to the LR Baggs pickup). I've used it a couple of times in a live setting and only had minor feeback hum. Nothing that couldn't be resolved by tweaking the notch control. The Gotoh tuners on this thing are AMAZING! I tune in an open "slack" tuning and used to always have problems with my guitar going out. Not anymore. I tune once at the beginning of the gig and thats it. It also stays in tune no matter where you Capo on the neck. The action is totally playable and comfortable even for a 3 hour gig.

I would rank the sound right up there with the Martins and Taylors of the world. Very deep, rich tone. I currently go directly into the PA using only an LR Baggs acoustic pre-amp for color. THe only complaint would be minor feedback, but I have since purchased a feedback buster for the sound hole.

Action was set up perfectly. I did change the string gauge to fit my style. Did not notice any flaws or design issues. I love this guitar!

Would definitely use this as my main axe with no back up. THe construction is solid! Waxed the finish with Meguiars car wax per the instructions and it's just like new! This thing seems like it will last forever.

Very friendly and personable. Contacted via email and they were very quick and courteous.

I have been playing for about 10 years. If this guitar were lost or stolen, I would be deeply saddened but would definitely replace it in a heartbeat! Would try to seek out another Maui made one (pre-2002)with Fishman electronics. I have played several and they all seem to play pretty consistently well.

Neck and Soundhole Inlays, LR Baggs Element Electronics, Custom Case, Graphite Contsruction are second to none. The headstock is a little plain though.

I have a flatpicking style. This guitar is loud, bright and even for all notes. The same holds true when plugged in. This is the best sounding guitar I've owned, but certainly the most expensive. It has relegated a late 90's Martin DR to a backup role.

Replaced light elixirs with mediums and it all came together. Doesn't ring the same capoed with a Kyser. Will experiment with a Shubb, hopefully with improved results. Overall, the action is superb.

There are a few pinhole marks high on the neck which I'm led to believe are difficult to avoid in the manufacturing process. They do not affect playing at all. Other than that the finish is even and excellent. The strong workmanship is evident.

After one month it's hard to guage. But, it's seems incredibly sturdy and reliable. It's holds tune remarkably well. I've taken it from Air Conditioning out to my back porch in hot & humid South Florida with no additional tuning required. It'll debut in an outdoor gig later this month to what I expect will be outstanding results. The Martin would always require some constant tweaking when "breathing" outdoors.

I received a hand signed letter from them shortly after I registered it on-line. That was nice. I haven't had to deal with any problems or questions yet.

I've been playing for about 20 years and currently own a Martin DR and a relatively inexpensive mass-produced Alvarez. Both are electric/ acoustic.

So far, so good. I am thoroughly impressed and would surely consider replacing it if lost. I was looking at the mid to high end of Larivee, Tacoma, Martin, & Gibson before settling on the Rainsong. I was struggling with the non-traditional looks and materials but, the sound, both acoustic and plugged in, eventually won out.

Features already described A brilliant conception of ideas.

Carbon sound is unique. No deadspots, all notes even in volume, any area of the neck. Incredibly loud.I play mixture of fingerpicking and strumming. Put off further use by comments below. Sound very good overall.

Cosmetically, totally immaculate. A thing of beauty. The set up was diabolical. I bought it blind from (a genuine and lovely person) who must have far greater left hand strength that me. The neck (non adjustable) has exactly the right relief,approx 10 thou on the bottom e. Going across the board to the top e, the relief varies to much much too bowed. This is ony adjusable by removing the frets, shooting the board back straight and refretting. Very expensive! The neck, sighting from the headstock is very uneven, reminding me of those awful cheapy guitars from the 70's. Fret job rubbish too. There is little or no bevel towards the cetre of the board, and the shoulders are absolutely not finished. This, combined with the larger than usual amount of playing room, means you can hear the frets trying to rip chunks out of your hand. Absolute junk at this price. The neck is very flat at 20 inch radius, which I personally don't like. The combination gloss urethane neck and epoxy board make for a very slippy sweaty feel. Main thing is the twisted bent neck, and terrible fret job. Inexcusable at this level.

It's going again because of the neck. Shame ,I always wanted one of these. Having bought it used, I have no redress, so I am knackered really. I think it would last forever otherwise. In the pool, on the beach, snow,greenhouse etcetc. Case above average quality.

N/a COS BOUGHT USED.They are as usual offerrring far less support to UK buyers.

Brilliant in conception. If the neck and fretwork were sorted, I would proably love it. My main guitar is a Taylor 714, an example to the world of how straight level fret work should be carried out. I always wanted one of these till I had it, and the bubble has burst. Shame, because it sounds great.

I bought this guitar used, at Guitar's Plus in Princeton, WV. I had went with the intentions of purchasing a Martin D-16, but I came home with a Rainsong WS 1000. Why did I purchase it over the Martin? When I played it, it screamed "I'll do you right, buy me!".
I was purchasing a guitar for home recording, plugging straight into the board. I'm not sure when this Istrument was made, but it was made in Hawia, it has Rain Song on the 12 th of 14 frets. It has a pickup, and a condenser built in. The built in EQ only works on the pickup on this gitar. Is this a flaw, or?...

THis thing is truly versatile. We play Folk, Fingerstyle, Rock and Blues and it is the best straight plugged into the Mixer that I've ever used. The unplugged sound of the guitar and plugged with condensorsound is very close, and they are both great. It sounds warm with a pick, et you can bare finger pick it without getting stuck up in the mud. My only complaint is that it doesn't seem to come shining through for lead playing on higher notes played upard of the 10th or 12th frets. I'm using light gauge D'Addario strings. Perhaps if I used some effects or a processer I could get more zing out of it.

The action is set-up about right for me. I'm an acousit player, ands it'asgood as any acoustic I've played as fac as action. I mainly use the the built in condenser. I've expieremented with the pickup, and micxing mic and pickup, but I love the mic. My guitar shows a light dimple on the surface near the top of the 14th fret, but it hasn't bothered me.

This thing would be great for live gigs because it's built like a tank. It stays in Tune better than anything I've ever played, I love the tuners on it. It doesn't seem to mind coming right out of the cold car trunk and into the warm stufio room.

haven't tried to contact the manufacturer.

I've been playing for about 23 years. I've owned Martins, Tacoma's, Taylor's and various others. This guitar can compet with the best of these.

Year made: Feb 18, 2000
Made out of Carbon Fiber.
Has a Fishman Blender, not too bad. The blender has an internal mic and transducer.
Finish is a transparent uthethane over the carbon fiber.
I believe the body-style is a "Grand Auditorium"
Tuners are GOTOH

I got all kinds of little goodies with it, but didn't really care either way to have. The TKL Case is "da bomb" as the kids say.

I think is has a very modern sound. Very even quality. It has a little bit of wierd sparkle that I like. The only think I run it through before a PA is a Sabine NEX5000 pedal tuner and an LR Baggs Acoustic DI box.

I wish it had a little more punch. It is plenty loud, but sometimes I want a little more.

I bought this used. How anyone could have played this thing in a professional environment is beyond me. The action was very high. The guitar is in fine shape. I cut down the bridge saddle about 1/8" and now it is playing very well.

The Fishman Blender is alright. You think they could have made the control panel smaller, but that isn't Rainsong's fault. After a little car polish, it looked excellent. Not a bad finish spot anywhere. No dimples as others have talked about. I absolutley love the inlay work. This instument has the "Rainsong" inlay at the 12th fret instead of the headstock. I love that!

This is the toughest acoustic I have had. The tuning pegs are quality. Strap buttons are in good spots. Very dependable, I would do a gig with this alone without thinking twice. I spend a lot of the summer on the beach and I can't wait to take it out there.

E-mailed and called them. Excellent support.

I practice 16-20 hours a week and gig randomly. I like the look, the shark inlays and the unique tone. I love how easy it is to care for and the durability. If it were stolen I would be unhappy. It is now part of the family. My "main" guitar is a Larrivee LV-03RE. Comparing the two is silly. The Rainsong has a unique sound. The Larrivee has all the natural goodness you would expect out of a hand-made woodie. As far a playability, the Larrivee is much better. As far as electronics, the Larrivee has a B-Band A-5 which is also a much better pickup/preamp setup.

There are things the Rainsong has that are better than the Larrivee, like even string volume. It is also 1000 times more durable and the case is nicer and the inlay work is better. Believe it or not, the unplugged volume output is not much better than my Larrivee. They are different instruments and I love them both.

This is a recently manufactured model, with Fishman Blender (though on request the factory will send one with an L.R. Baggs Element, which will soon replace the Blender). It was manfactured in Woodinville, WA. See other reviews for the details.

I don't plug in much, and haven't had too much experience with the pickups. However, acoustically, this guitar is full of discovery. It is loud, sensitive, balanced, and varied at different right hand positions and different volumes. I'm used to playing a Martin D35 set up very high, so this permits much gentler playing. I use fingerpicks with a heavy attack, yet this guitar doesn't easily 'bottom out' with my style. The lower setup allows me to do things I might only have done on an electric. The light weight and smaller body (than a dreadnought) makes it wonderful for fingerstyle. The sound: it almost seems as though it is run through a reverb unit, and it may tend toward a slightly metallic midrange, as though played with a piezo pickup. However, this is only one of its tones, and can be controlled.

Action is terrific. I had to look at a few instruments to find one that was satisfactory cosmetically. There are inconsistencies in different guitars, and a perfect finish is apparently impossible due to the manufacturing techniques. For instance, tiny pits - pinholes, really - can be found on the fingerboard, and where parts meet (neck to top, for instance, or tuner to the back of the head) there is a bit of messiness. Of course, the inside looks like the inside of a fiberglass boat. Don't look inside. Still, I love how it looks, and it was very well set up. It doesn't buzz even in an open C tuning.

I bought it as I figured it needed less caution than a rosewood Martin. I expect to take it around with me. However, I haven't had it long enough to comment on its durability.

Calls prior to purchase were well answered and helpful. I've had no service.

I've played over 40 years, and mostly play acoustic. I'd consider the Rainsong 12 string for its stability. So far, I'm having a wonderful time with this instrument, which may become my main guitar for casual use and playing out.

Manufactured in 2000 in Hawaii. Made of Carbon Graphite with Fishman Blender pickup. With case.

I bought my WS-1000 in March of 2001. I fly Citation and Lear Jets for a living and needed a guitar that could not only hold up to the rigors of daily travel, but to be able to withstand extremely cold temperatures. Most of the time, there is not enough room inside the cabin for my guitar so it has to be stowed in the outside baggage hold where the temperatures are regularly 40 to 50 degrees below zero for as long as five hours at a time. I spoke directly with RainSong?s marketing and customer service honcho, who said they would stand behind their warrantee under those conditions. I?m told that the carbon graphite compound used in its construction is shipped to the factory in dry ice. I am here to tell you that the carbon graphite construction holds up so well that I don?t even detune the instrument prior to loading and when I get to my hotel room, it?s still in perfect tune. I am careful not to open the case until it reaches room temperature so that the condensation doesn?t affect the electronics. I brought the guitar in to the Woodinville, Washington factory a couple of months ago where the marketing manager and Ashvin Coomar, the president and CEO, looked it over. They were very pleased to find that ? after more than 50 flights -- the instrument looked showroom new with just a tiny scratch in the finish (which they promptly buffed out). I must warn you that heat is still the enemy of this guitar, and like any high-end guitar, you don?t want to leave it in the trunk of your car on a hot summer day. The series 3 and 4 guitars are cured at a higher temperature and these are the preferred instruments. Also, the materials used in construction aren?t bullet proof, so don?t go using the guitar as a tennis racquet.
As far as playability is concerned, the set up from the factory is as good as those from Taylor, meaning they are comfortably low without any string buzz. My WS-1000 has the 1 ?? nut width but the neck is thin enough that many electric guitar players find it comfortable. And what about the sound? I brought my RainSong to several open mic gatherings over the last two years and many felt its sound was one of the best there. At one event, everyone commented on how good it sounded when plugged in. It has the same on-board Fishman blender that Taylor uses with an under saddle pick up and inside microphone. One long time guitarist, who is a very accomplished player and owns a fleet of fine all-wood guitars said, ?I really didn?t want to like this guitar.? It was hard to get it back from him so that I could take my turn at the mic.
A fine all-wood guitar is known for not only the sounds it projects, but for the sounds it absorbs. I own a Collings D-2H and for flat-picking along with my Martin HD-28, a Lowden F-32 for fingerstyle along with my Martin 000-28EC, and a Goodall 12-string, so I can appreciate the rich sound that those great guitars can make. When I play my all-wood guitars I hear warmth. When I play the RainSong I hear a slightly more bell-like tone where the highs shimmer. That?s not to say they don?t have any warmth! I?m talking subtleties here. When you think of the RainSong WS-1000, think of a piano. When you envision the jumbo JM 1000, think Grand Piano. I know of several artists who are more impressed with the plugged in sound than unplugged. I needed a guitar that could withstand extreme cold and could handle both the subtleties of fingerstyle and the demands of flatpicking. My WS-1000 not only does that but it has the playability and tone equal to many high-end instruments.
I don?t work for RainSong, nor do they pay me for an endorsement, but I can highly recommend their instruments. I bought mine from a shop in Kentucky sight unseen.
Regards,
Mike Gilles

US made graphite guiar with Fishman Matrix blender pick-up system. It's a 2001 model. I guess all of the material info has been supplied by the other reveiwer's... so I'll spare all of teh details.

The sound... that is what sold me on this guitar. I bought it a year ago and it's been my baby ever since. I was testing Taylor's (various models), Lowden, Martin, Gibson (I was playing an older J-200 at the time I made the purchase of the WS-100) and others. The guitar just had amazing tone, sustain and volume! I didn't even plug it in. It won over the other acoustics that I was trying out.

Once I got home I plugged into my PA. Then it came alive once more! I'm not a big fan of Fishman electronis... I was using a L R Baggs Dual Source in my other guitar at the time. The guitar/pickup combo worked. I could finally play at very loud volumes and still have a "real" acoustic sound.

Love the action... it's solid from 1st to last fret. I can actually play lead riffs on it, hehe. Bend's and other tricks are no problem with the Rainsong.

This guitar has been solid as a rock for the past year! Holds tune amazingly.

I haven't had to deal with them really... no need. Once I e-mailed about other pickup options and was answered quickly and very warmly.

Been playing 20 + years... played electric and acoustic for a living most of that time. I am sticking with acoustic these day's and letting the younger folks carry around the huge electric rigs, hehe. I still have the Gibson j-200 but never touch it. Thinking of getting another Rainsong, maybe an OM. If it were lost or stolen, after freaking out I'd run to get another one! I love the guitar but am still not sold on the Fishman system... I just like the Baggs LB-1, Ribbon pups. I did compare to many guitars before I bought and am so happy that I settled on the WS-1000! I'd like a retrofit pickup system for this guitar... maybe something by Baggs or B Band.

I bought this guitar several years ago, I believe it's a 1999. It's from the period Rainsong was still in Hawaii and focusing on producing this model only. Unless you live in a cave, you should be aware the guitar is carbon fiber and has no wood in it....It has a Fishman blender pre-amp and came with a transparent pick-guard that was installed by the dealer. I'm writing this review as I've owned and used this guitar for several years now and most of what I saw on this site was from folks with newer instruments. My experience with any guitar has been it takes a year or two to really appreciate its total personality. Because of the carbon-fiber construction I'll give it a "8" for features....but then for $1300.00 you should expect a lot.

I know sound is very subjective, and yes, the thing is VERY LOUD! This guitar has a "unique" voice and although mostly nice, it has some drawbacks. I'm an aggressive player that frequently strums my instruments within inches of their lives. When you push this guitar, it can get a bit overpowering in the midrange...not exactly muddy and dull, but more a bit of a quack. You have to play a particular way to avoid this unplesantness. Also, the "b" string doesn't seem to sustain as clearly or long as the others.....I played several before purchasing this one and I'd have to say this isn't anything peculiar to my instrument. Plugged in it has a very warm and easily tailored sound - you can brighten/adjust things easily by blending in more or less of the mic sound. I'd give it a "9" plugged in, "6-7" unplugged, and an "8" overall.

No real problems with anything on the guitar. The action's a bit higher than other guitars I play, and there's no truss rod for easy adjustments. The neck is a bit wider and has a larger radius also. All in all, the set-up is fine, but not what I would consider really fast. Fit and finish is top notch and the instrument is very striking. Because of the high gloss you'll spend a lot of time cleaning and polishing it.....fingerprints, sweat and smudges really show up.

I take excellent care of all my guitars, so I can't speak to how durable the carbon-fiber is. It shows some minor scratches acquired over the years....it is nice to have a guitar that's super light. The hype that this guitar never goes out of tune is not true in my experience. It is very stable, comparable to an ovation, but it does go out of tune with temperature variations of 10 degrees or so. This may be the strings, but you'll still need to tune the thing as often as most other guitars.

Haven't had much contact other than prior to purchasing the thing. The folks in Hawaii were professional and courteous. They answered my questions and sent literature quickly when requested. I've heard dealers speak highly of this company.

I've been playin about 20 years. Would probably replace it if lost. Like everything about it except that midrange honk when spanked. It sounds great used for recordings on my VS1880.

Made in Hawaii. Rainsongs are definitely not your run-of-the-mill traditional acoustic, but then again that's really what makes these babies so special. I didn't buy this guitar because of cosmetic appeal and I will be the first to admit that the "look" takes a bit of getting used to. If you can get past that, this guitar is amazing.

This thing sounds unbelievable. Very balanced and full, every note rings out with wonderful clarity. Obviously the sound is a bit brighter than what you would get with a wooden box but that's not really a bad thing...just a different tone. Plug this puppy in and there's not much out there that I've heard that comes close.

No visable flaws in the finish that I could spot. The action and playablility are a "10". This guitar plays itself and is tough to put down!

I can't really forsee having many problems with this guitar which is one of the reasons why I considered this in the first place. These things have a reputation for being bulletproof and the fact that humidity will no longer be a concern is a big plus. I play very aggressively and this baby takes it without breaking a sweat!

Haven't had to use this so I can't really say but from everything I've heard they really stand behind their product.

I have owned my completely stock 2002 WS1000 for about a month now. As far as features go, it's got the standard Fishman Matrix blender, chrome Gotoh tuners and the thinnest acoustic neck I've ever played. It does not come with any kind of pick-guard and am told that the carbon/resin matrix doesn't require one. I have ordered up a thin plastic membrane(GuitarArmor.com) to apply just in case. I am giving an "8" rating in this catagory only because of the lack of adjustable truss rod (see action, fit & finish)

I play folk/rock/country mostly solo and all for fun. Self record original work and do the occasional open mike. Acoustically, it is very similar in tone to a lot of Taylors and a bit brighter than many Martins. For it's size it is louder than any guitar I have played (all my playing friends keep saying "wow, this thing is LOUD!!). It has more sustain than any of the surrounding guitars as well (Martins, Taylors, Ovations). When plugged in it is my second favorite behind the Adamas -- I might be able to get that "fat" Adamas sound with medium strings on the Rainsong, but haven't tried that yet.

Set up perfectly and without a doubt the best playing acoustic I have ever laid hands on (over 25 years I've played hundreds upon hundreds). It seems strange that is doesn't have a truss rod, but then again...with the stability of the material (carbon doesn't move around like wood after all) if it plays right from the start, I suppose it will always play right.

Finish was superb all around the exterior -- I simply couldn't find any flaws. Nicely detailed and polished. There was a bit of white residue in one corner of the inside that I will probably paint the first time I change the original strings (do these Elixers EVER wear out?).

It is somewhat of a contrast from a wood guitar (I enjoy the beauty of interior woodwork) in that while the outside is a work of art, the inside looks a bit like the bottom side of a fiberglass hot tub.

Though it feels like the lightest guitar I've held (OK, a Martin Backpacker is lighter), this thing is stiff as a truck suspension. Monte Montgomery would have a tough time with his "acoustic tremelo" effect on this guitar(the one where he bows the neck forward and gets a half step of trem out of the flex). It is easily twice as stiff at the neck as my next stiffest guitar(Ovation).

I bought this guitar because I travel for a living (ESPN production crew) and I believed it would be a step up from my travel guitar of 20 years (Ovation). It has done nothing but support my decision thus far. My travel guitar spends 2 days a week as airline baggage and three days a week being shuffled from cold hotel room to hot rental car to freezing cold TV production truck (they keep them cold to help protect the millions of dollars of critical electronics)to the suffocating storage belly of said truck during games. I have a very sensitive ear and with an all wood guitar can spend inordinate amounts of time tuning. My Ovation was by far the best in this area, but the Rainsong just blows it away. I can go a work-week and hardly tune it at all. When tuning is required the tone is so clear it practically snaps itself into frequency. I'm flat out spoiled with this rig.

It came with a nice custom SKB HSC case and I am quite satisfied with it.

Spoke with the factory before purchasing and they spent the time necessary to answer my questions kindly and professionally.

I met a guy who had an early Rainsong that experienced a delam issue and he said the factory quickly "made it more than right".

I have no other first hand knowledge.

I bought it because I was in love with it's tone, playability, durability and strength. Nothing has changed.

The only things I wish it had(truss rod, pick-guard) it doesn't seem to need. For my use (heavy travel) nothing else can compete, and yet now that I have one, if it never left my home studio it would still be the guitar of preference.

If it was stolen, I would hunt down the perp, strangle them and then rush right out and buy another one. I have sampled their 12 string as well and I have never played a 12 so easy. I will own one soon. Now, if they will just make a nylon string version before I have to buy one of the new Taylors.

2001 Grand Auditorium Cutaway made in Washington. Top, body and neck are all made of carbon fiber,with an interesting geometric fiber pattern and a high gloss finish. Looks hi-tech and formal at the same time. The fretboard and bridge are synthetic compsosite, and the nut and saddle are tusq. It has shark fretboard inlays, and a beautiful blue shell soundhole rosette, which looks great against the black top. Has a Fishman Matrix blender. Thinnest neck I've ever seen on an acoustic, and I've got a few Taylors. Had a friend over to try it last night, and he thought the neck was as thin as his Ibanez electric. Chrome Gotoh tuners which also look good against the midnight black color of the guitar. Usually see gold in this price range, butI don't think it would look as good. Comes with a nice custom SKB HSC. If it has any negatives, it would be the smell. While most new guitars have that lovely wood fragrence out of the box, the RainSong smelled like glue. Fortunately, the odor is dissipating fast, and has not caused any serious respiratory problems.

I play for fun, (couldn't make a profit at it), mostly folk, rock and country. Have a Fender Acoustimas Jr. for jamming with friends. This guitar has a very rich, bright sound. It holds its own acoustically with Taylors, and with Ovations when plugged in.

Literally perfect set-up out of the box. Quickest action of any acoustic I've played. No flaws noted, but the neck has that bolted/glued on look since it has no dovetail joint. The high gloss finish is very nice. Gives the fibers a 3D look.

One dealer said you can lay it across the arms of a chair and sit on it. Wouldn't try it, but it sure seems solid despite being so light.

Haven't dealt with them yet, but have heard good things.

Started playing again about two years ago, after about a 25 year lay-off. Amazing how quickly it comes back. I've also started collecting guitars. Bought this one without ever seeing or playing one. I love new technology, and this guitar sure has it. I was looking for a novelty, and ended up with a serious instrument which I really love to play. I've got several Taylors, two Epiphones, a Seagull 12-string, a Simon & Patrick, a Peavy electric and an Ovation Adamas. Not to mention a very understanding wife! The RainSong can hold its own with any of them (except the wife) with respect to looks, sound and playability. If I had to pick only one keeper, it would be the WS1000. I'm already looking at their new 12-string, the WS3000, and will likely have one soon unless this new medication kicks in.

2002 WS-1000. This guitar is high-tech instrumet made of graphite NO WOOD!!!!
Has a Fishman blender system,, sounds great very balanced. I plug it into a Crate CA 112. The tuners did what they are for -lol- got me in tune quick and very smooth. This guitar stays in tune longer then any other guitar that I have played. With the cutaway, playing leads are a breeze. I do wish they put a pickgaurd on this, but it does look cool without it.

I play blues, country rock and just a little slide. What can I say,,I bought it on the spot and I LOVE IT. This guitar has a sound that projects and just sings so sweet. I can't get that sound out of any of my other guitars. I play out on the weekends and the very nice things people say about my sound make me very happy about my purchase.

The guitar plays like a dream . The finish is a little interesting, hard to describe because the guitar is graphite, but it has a 3D kind of vibe very deep high gloss NICE. Everything was perfect EXCEPT the nut felt a little sharp on both sides against my hand. the guitar tech fixed it on the spot for me! NICE.

I play out everywhere, the beach, cruise ships, VERY cold Hotels, raw bars, etc. This is the only guitar that I will bring to my gigs because this is the only guitar that can deal with all the eliments and stay in tune.

So far so good. Everything is OK.

Wow!What a coooool guitar. I just walked into the store to buy some strings and look around when the guy at the desk asked me If I ever tried a RainSong. Not only did I never try one before,I never heard of it. He put it in my hands and the rest is history.

Carbon fiber guitar with chrome Gotoh tuners and a Fishman Matrix pick-up built in. Little inlayed sharks adorn the fingerboard. The sound hole rosette is beautiful and luminescent. Well built plush case with a comfy handle. Finish is smooth as glass with tweedy black cross-hatch lines reminiscent of a black tie affair. You have to wear your best threads to look as good as this guitar.

Loud clean and bright. I have five solo guitar CD's in realease. I did an A/B sound test in my studio and opted for recording several songs for my latest CD with the Rainsong over the Martin 0-18 (1949) or the Gibson SJ (1962), both beautiful sounding guitars. However, recently I was standing at a gig with my Rainsong, and a friend next to me had his Gibson. We did an impromptu acoustic A/B with a few audience members and they liked the warmer sound of the Gibson. I was bummed because I wanted to win. It's a personal choice, but I really like the bright, balanced sound the Rainsong has. Plugged in sound is great but tends to feedback at higher levels even at transducer only setting. A sound hole plug helps but if your intention is to play with a rock band I would make sure you could get a handle on the feedback.

Fit and finish perfect. Factory set-up is a bit high for my fingerstyle playing. Those who use alternate tunings might want to keep it that way as slack strings tend to buzz if the set-up is too low. I took the saddle down about a 16th of an inch with no buzz in standard tuning and now it plays like buttah!

I cruised the Carribean on a sailboat with this guitar. The only thing that happened was the strings rusted up in a day. I had to treat them with olive oil to keep them operational the two weeks on the ocean. Otherwise no effect on the guitar.
This is my second Rainsong. The first was left in my car in a Calton case after a gig. I know I should not have left it there but it was late, I was tired etc. I got it out by 10:00AM the next morning. It was hot, but not cooked. However, after it cooled down I opened it up and the peg head had moved a fraction rendering it unplayable--lots of buzz and intonation out of whack. Rainsong replaced it under warranty even though I allowed to them that I should not have left it in the car. I didn't ask if that was the problem or if it was something else. I'll presume it was my fault because the guitar otherwise is quite robust even though it is extremely light.

As mentioned above, they replaced the guitar under warranty without a single hassle. They called me before shipping the replacement to say it had a tiny finish flaw that was barely preceptible. I was happy to say, "I'll take it". I figured it was the least I could do since I was culpable in some way for the problem. In fact I have never been so thoroughly pleased with a customer service operation. They are still small, but if they keep up with such great customer service they are not going to stay small. The guitar arrives and it was like a "Find Waldo" to see the finish flaw. Picky, Picky!

I have been playing for 40 years. I own several high end acoustics and electrics as well as valuable vintage gutars. The Rainsong holds its own among them. I would buy it again and I missed it while it was gone. I bought it because I can not help myself. When something new comes out I have to try it. Most of the time I am not as happy as I thought I would be and wind up selling. This guitar I'll keep. It won't replace my Gibsons, Martins, or Guilds but it can hold its head up.

1999 Rainsong, made in Maui clears 12 frets, with a venetian cutaway. The bridge, bridge pins, nut, neck , fingerboard, top, back, and sides are made of composit graphite. It comes with a onboard Fishman blender system. The whole guitar is high gloss with abalone rosette, and shark shaped fingerboard inlays. The insignia RainSong marks the 12th fret. It comes with a geib style case.

The sound unplugged is dynamic. This guitar is made for fingerpicking. It can be tuned lower or hinger than normal scale. And, it is loud. To get the feel of th sound you must play it. The feeling is unlike any wood guitar. Plugged into an amp, it the sound can be manipulated. Dispite the size of the top, and the shound hole (which is larger than my Martins), it does not feed back as much as wood guitars.

The factory set up is great, but the action is a little high for my style of playing. With some saddle adjustment it plays well, and the sound has much more sustain. There is no need for any neck adjustments, as there is no device to adjust. The finish is high gloss resin, and durable, and harder to scratch than lacquer. No need to wory about bracing, the guitar has no bracing. The tuners have a lot of play, and tuning up is time consuming.

This is the ultimate high end, gig, outdoor, touring, beach, and recording guitar. Everything on it is built to last.

the company has moved from Maui to Washington. No need for support yet, but the company's president is very responsive to correspondence, and the company will replay to all of your questions

The RainSong WS1000 is a guitar of a lifetime, and is a guitar that has many functions. The WS1000 takes the fun out of buying many guitars for your different guitar needs. This guitar does it all. Once you play the WS 1000, and get the action set up, other guitars may sound week. It was the sound and feel of the sound that caused me to purchase this guitar. Caution, this guitar can change your perception of acoustic guitars.

2000 model year. http://www.rainsong.com/WS1000.htm provides a complete feature list. I've been told that once the factory moves to Seattle to save on manufacturing costs, SKB cases will be substitued for the beautiful TKL ones. Too bad!

I play folk, rock, blues, pop, etc. and I find that it suits them all very well. I generally don't play the guitar through an amp, though I have and it sounds phenomenal. The saddle pickup, built-in microphone, and Fishman blender combination provide a wide range of electric sounds. Acoustically, the guitar is very clear and bright; it's almost harp-like in its tone. It's also capable of full bass tones which, as a bassist as well, I very much appreciate. The guitar does lack some of the mellowness of a wood acoustic, so, if that's what you're looking for, you'll probably want to look elsewhere. Don't get me wrong, however; I wouldn't say that the sound is cold or sterile or harsh as is so often said of graphite instruments. Rather, it has its own unique and beautiful sound.

I'm completely satisfied with the guitar's setup. I've owned it for 2 months and have yet to have a problem. It doesn't come with a pickguard, but I had the shop where I bought it (Cathedral Music, Troy, NY) put on a thin, clear, adhesive plastic, cut-to-fit one. It's not really for me because I vastly prefer the feel of finger picking. Rather, it's to protect the beautiful gloss finish from the clutzy pickers who always seem to want to play it!

The guitar seems very sturdy and extremely well constructed, though I don't want to really put that to the test any time soon! I imagine that it would withstand live playing as its case is very sturdy and well padded.

I haven't had a need to contact the company yet, though I imagine that, as a small company, they'd be very respnsive. Luckily, I bought it from a good local dealer who I hope would take care of any service related issues for me. The guitar comes is covered against defects as long as its in the original owner's possession (http://www.rainsong.com/warranty.htm).

I've been playing guitar on and (mostly) off for about 6 years, though I've begun to take it more seriously in the last 1 to 2 years. Prior to that, electric bass was my primary instrument (until I got sick of lugging gear around). The only real drawback to the guitar is its depth. I'm about 5'7" and I find it to be a little deeper than I would ideally prefer. Perhaps I just need to adjust, but I find my thinner classical guitar more comfortable. Had I thought about this before, I might have purchased the OM1000 (http://www.rainsong.com/OM.htm) because it's basically a thinner version of the same guitar. But then I'm certain that I wouldn't get the same bass response, so guess I'll deal with it. I didn't really shop around all that much because I loved the guitar from the second I heard it. I would buy another Rainsong in a minute should anything happen to this one.

Fishman Blender pick up,tranlucent black carbon fiber high gloss finish.

Great for fingerpicking.Super projection un plugged.Flat picking produces a very strong clear sound,good for leads.I play through different P.A.'s,Fender Chorus and Acoustisonic amps.The sound is super clean.I hate to use any effects,although a touch of reverb, delay and or chorus seem well received.At low to moderate volume levels,this guitar and pick up combo is extrordinary.I havn't mastered the pick up controls to manage feedback at moderate to high levels,even with the internal mic cut off and a plug in the sound hole.I regretably switch to a less sensitive guitar when playing gigs at high volume,but miss the Rainsong.I'll keep trying

Set up and exterior finish were near perfect.The guitar is beautiful

This guitar seems to be built like a tank.If not for feedback problems,I might not use a back up.My band mates like playing loud,I prefer to play well.It's tough at times competing with Les Pauls Stats and Telecasters

I've called.They were very pleasant but there were no tech people available for my question

I've been playing 25 years.I own Martins,a Mossman,Alverez iari,Takamini,Gibson and a couple electrics.I love the way the guitar sounds,I love the way it looks.Every player thats picked it up looked amused before they played it ,and amazed after.If I can manage the feedback,I'll call it near perfect

I purchased this guitar about 5 months ago from Elderly Music. Read alot of the reviews on this site thought i'd give it a try. A carbon fibre acoustic electric made in Hawaii.. with abalone shark inlays fishman electronics..couldn't wait..ordered it online everything went smooth..still not to comfortable ordering online.. but what the heck hi-tech guitar ..hi-tech new style way to spend money..

I recieved my guitar in less than 6 days..really good for this state carefully unwrapped it gave it a good eyeballing ... then began to play it.. it sounded wonderful! open chords, barre, then fingered each string all 21 fretts, found a slight buzz on the lo-e eight frett , it goes away if you press hard donno! it comes with elexirs think their lights over-all it's got to rate as one of the best sounding guitars i've played

Actin-fit-finish perfect for me.. for this kind of money i would have been disapointed if i had to change anything

When i picked up this guitar in the case, i thought oh no this thing weighs a ton..opened the case lifted the guitar and suprise, it's very light.. feels strong should last forever.. as for the case it's made by TKL crushed blue velvet..solid studs and heavy ...a match made for the long haul.. and this thing stays in tune..

I registered my warranty on-line(hi-tech again) and asked about getting a pickguard..they come without one..recieved one within a week along with some stickers magazines a C.D. I put the pickguard on..it changed the sound got kinda dead thought it might need new strings..so i replaced them still not the same sound like when it was new i thought maybe the glue needed some adhesive time gave it 2 weeks same thing sounded dead..so i proceeded to pull the pickguard off..very carefully then used some tre-amigos guitar oil to take off the sticky glue got it all back to original and shazamm the sound was back..

Ive been playing off and on for about 30 yrs. I mainly play percussions .. I have a martin 12 string, Gibson Dove, OM-2 and a parlor Larivee, ovation balladeer , twenty something 4string national, peavy electric,peavy bass mandolin ,Kamaka uke try to cover all the bases ,,never know what i'll be gigging with but its fun..if this guitar was stolen? i'd get another one..love this guitar play it everyday

Late 2000 Purchased new from Elderly Intruments and returned for an exchange. Tried several at local stores and fell in love with this model. The size, stability and light weight plus the tone of this cabon fiber instrment sold me. The hardware and pickups are first rate as others have described.

The sound is very bright and full with tones that are unique to this material. I'm running it through a Carvin 100D amp and it works well.

There were four problems with my guitar which led me to send it back for an exchange. First of all, I had my set up expert check out the action for buzzy frets and we found the follwing: The neck was warped and has a hump at the heel, The frets had a flat spot around the 7th fret, there was a nick in the neck behind the 7th fret(like a knife cut), and the srew holding the strap pin at the heel was very rough and damaged. The action was set higher than I like and because of the neck problem we decided to send it back to Elderly Instruments.
They were very nice about it and professional, I eagerly await my new guitar.
I went back to my local store to look at the same model with a similar serial number and it was fine. So maybe I just got a lemon.
I really like these guitars and I plan to keep mine forever, I just want others to check on the quality control before purchasing an expensive instument.

N/A yet

Rainsong was very nice and responsive to my inquery. The responded within 24 hours. They would have required me to ship it to Hawaii for warranty work if I hadn't returned it for an exchange from the retailer.

I've played off and on for 9years. The only bad one I've seen was the one I received so I think that these are generally consistantly good guitars. I would buy one again if it were stolen. I have a
1981 Ibanez GB-10. I love the light weight and the tone of these guitars. I felt comfortable mailordering one because there is no wood in them and they should all be the same right?

This is a new, made-in-September model. Mail order, sight unseen from Elderly in Michigan. Came with the best hardshell case i have ever had. Made by TKL which i never heard of. Does not have a pickguard. Only thing that is wood i beleive the pins. I registered online and received a response within hours about the date of manufacture.

Sound...I play elec and acoustic in a church Praise team with piano, synth, flute, V-drums, bass and several vocalists. The first night I played with the Rainsong, the bassist stopped and asked what the sound was in his headphones, he thought it was another piano! Cleanest plugged in acoustic sound and sustain you can imagine. Does not have the typical piezo harshness. Lots of cool overtones, put your ear next to the body, and strum... it just doesn't stop ringing.
Doesn't have the bass of a D-28 but plenty for a balanced tone. Every string is distinct, and i will probably have to use a mute, since this thing is so loud.

Electric action, I may lower even a bit more. Great finish quality
looks kind of like my graphite/kevlar tennis raquet. fretwork very clean. it is a deep guitar and takes some getting used to since i usually play a Tele. Back is flat, however...i hated the Ovation backs. The Fishman setup is great with easy battery access. Stays in tune well even with brutal strumming.

It came with light Elixir strings which are my favorites. I mainly bought this guitar to withstand the extremely dry hot conditions of the Arizona desert. One of my wood acoustics basically blew up in my closet, and of course, i now keep my others in their cases with humidifiers. Hardware is solid as is the finish.

lifetime warranty.

I have owned Martins D-28 and custom 000-18, Guild D-50 which are all superb guitars. I would rate this higher than any guitar i have ever owned or played based on the durability, playability, and unbelievable electric and acoustic sound. As far as the beautiful look of maple, rosewood and ebony, this ain't your dad's guitar. For me however, I found the guitar I have been looking for for the last 30 years of my life.

Made in Maui fom carbon fibre, this guitar is very light. The neck is very slim with 3/4" at the nut. The strings fit very good in the nut, a little more than half way. The frets are medium -jumbo and are easy on your fingers. The fret ends are nicely rounded and do not stick out as on wooden guitars where the wood fingerboard has shrunkened. The fingerboard, in fact, the entire guitar is made of carbon fiber. When I first bought it, I thought that the action was a little high for me. After shaving a little less that 16th inch from the bottom of the saddle it plays to my liking. It does not rattle or buzz and has 12-52 Elixer strings on it which somehow do not feel heavy at all. The body is shaped like a 0000 Martin but is thicker. It also has a small cutaway and a black pickguard. Instead of the usual dot inlays there are abalone sharks and the RainSong logo at the 12th fret. The body meets the neck at the 14th fret. The round abalone circle around the slightly larger soundhole is beautifully done. The top has these parallel lines on it but you cannot feel it. The sides have a diagonal pattern to it but still you cannot feel it. It's a nice touch, sort of custom looking. This guitar does not have any binding like on regular guitars. The top is squared at the edges and the back is slightly rounded. Overall it has a very smooth, shiny finish and looks cool in the lights. The tuning keys are Gotoh and seem adequate, I don't think it needs changing to anything else. The carbon bridge is very ebony-looking and is shaped beautifully and even rounded on the edges. The bridgepins are rounded also and fit low in the holes so nothing is sticking up like on regular guitars. The electronics are Fishman with a transducer at the bridge saddle and an internal mike. I plugged it in the other day and after notching out any feedback or howlin got a good sound. It could use a little more bass but I am sure with a little more practice I can get it sounding real good. It came with a custom SKB wooden case with crushed blue-velvet which is real heavy duty.

Here's the real deal guys...This guitar stays in tune. It played in tune right out of the case. I live in the desert. In fact the other day I played it indoors @67D then stepped outdoors in my backyard for 30 minutes @105D, back into the air and it still stayed in tune. I've had big-buck Martins that have fallen apart and cracked on me. This guitar is a dream come true for us who live in the ever-changing temperatures of the desert. It uses Elixers strings which are known to stay in tune for weeks. I just gave my 912 Taylor away to a friend and I'm using this instead. I've had it up to my neck with wooden guitars. Here it can get as hot as 118D down to 28D which is tough on wood guitars. The sound, well, it is very clear in fact it takes some time at first when you hear it. You can hear every note whether high or low and they seem to be at the same volume. The neck is 3/4 at the nut but is shaped very slim. The fingerbrd is very flat. I think it has a 20" radius. You have to use a classical capo on this guitar cause it is very flat. I love it and can't put it down. I also bought a new Gibson L5 at the same time as the RainSong but play this guitar more than the L5. It sounds so clear and warm to me. I have been playing it around the house acoustically and I like the sound that I hear. Electrically, plugged it in and got a good sound which is easy to get. Remember, it stays in tune and is ultra-light. It's a good recording guitar.

After I shaved a bit from the bottom of the saddle it plays better to me. It does not have an adjustable trussrod but then again maybe it does not need it. This is built with different technology so although it has a built-in bow my fingers don't seem to have trouble with it. The finish is pretty smooth to me and boy is it shiny. I really like the abalone inlays on it althought he headstock looks plain. Sort of shaped narrow like an old Martin. Like I mentioned before the heaver strings do not feel as tight althought this has a 25 1/2" scale.

A strap button is attached to the heel and the endpin. The jack is also located at the endpin. This guitar seems very durable although I still would treat it carefully. It is something that is new being built from carbon fibre, seems strong to me. I would play this without a backup.

Registered this online and received snail mail thanking me for my purchase. That's nice hearing from the company but then again it's the Aloha spirit. I've had no problems so far. I actually wanted to buy the JZ1000 jazz guitar but that has been discontinued. I'll try to find a used model if I can. They have a lifetime warranty to the original owner. I've talked with them on the phone in the past and they are helpful.

I've been playin for 40 yrs and have owned the best Martins. This guitar is a very good working axe and it stays in tune. It plays good with the action I have on it now. No buzzs or rattles like on a wood guitar. I compared it to my Taylor 912C which I gave away. I'd rather have this guitar. I play in a show 4 nites a week for the last 10 yrs and want a guitar that'll stayin tune during the show. Guys, this is it! I'm gonna try to find a JZ1000 jazz guitar and maybe I'll sell my L5 and pocket the extra cash. RainSong WS1000 has a flat radius neck so you have to use a classical capo cause the others will buzz. Blame the capo not the guitar. With this guitar you conceintrate more making music than fighting the guitar to get it to play right. I don't worry much about the electric sound cause I know that the stuff on this is "top-of-the-line. Fantastic value..way less than I Marin D45 without electronics. This guitar is made to be played on stage..in the bright lights. Remember..stays in tune.

NEW GRAPHITE MODEL FROM RAINSONG. COMES WITH A FISHMAN PICKUP. IT WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE A TUNER BUILT IN WITH THE PICKUP LIKE THE TAKAMINE HD 90.COMES WITH A NICE CASE. THE BODY IS A CUTAWAY ACOUSTIC THAT IS DEEPER THAN A STANDARD ACOUSTIC AND IS WELL PRPORTIONED. THE FINISH IS A GLOSSY ACRYLIC WHICH WAS NEAR PERFECT. THE GRAPHITE MATERIAL HAS SOME IMPERFECTIONS WHICH TAKE SOME GETTING USED TO. WHEN YOU PAY THIS MUCH FOR A GUITAR YOU WANT IT TO BE PERFECT BUT I MUST ACCEPT THE FACT THE GRAPHITE IS LIKE THIS-EVEN ON BICYCLES MADE OUT OF IT.

IT REALLY DOES SOUND AMAZING.I PLAYED IT AT MCABES IN SANTA MONICA AND HAD TO HAVE IT EVEN THOGH I PAYED A LITTLE TOO MUCH--$1871. I THINK IT CAN BE BOUGHT FOR AROUND 1500 FROM ELDERLY. THE VOLUME IS LOUD AND THAT IS WHAT IS MOST STRIKING AT FIRST. THE NEXT THING I NOTICED WAS HOW ALL THE NOTES OF A CHORD COULD BE HEARD AS WELL AS THE OVERTONES. IT HAS VERY FULL HIGH NOTES AND LOW NOTES.I PLAY BLUES AND AM LEARNING BE BOP AND THIS GUITAR REALLY DOES SOUND AMAZING. I HAVE A MARTIN D42 AND THE RAINSONG IS SO MUCH CLEARER SOUNDING. THE ACTION ON THE RAINSONG IS PERFECT. NO FRET BUZZES ANYWHERE.

THE GUITAR WAS SET UP PERFECTLY.IT COMES WITH GORE TEX COATED STRINGS WHICH SOUNG GREAT AND REALLY DO LAST LONGER.THE FINISH FLAWS WERE VERY MINOR AND I OBSESSED FOR ABOUT A WEEK OVER THEM. I COULDN'T STOP PLAYING THIS GUITAR-IT SOUNDS THAT GOOD.

THIS GUITAR WILL BE THE ONLY THING LEFT ON EARTH AFTER THE "BIG ONE" EXCEPT FOR MAYBE COCKROACHES. THE TUNING MACHINES AND STRAP BUTTONS AND FINISH ARE VERY WELL MADE AND APPEAR LIKE THEY WILL LAST. I WOULD USE IT ON A GIG WITHOUT A BACKUP NO PROBLEM.

HAVEN'T HAD TO DEAL WITH THE COMPANY AND HOPEFULLY WON'T HAVE TO EXCEPT FOR REGISTERING IT ON LINE.

I HAVE LOTS OF GUITARS AND CAN'T STOP PLAYING THIS ONE.I WISHED I GOT IT ON LINE FROM ELDERLY BUT THE FLIP SIDE IS IT REALLY SOUNDED SO GOOD I HAD TO HAVE IT. IT IS STRIKING HOW GOOD THIS GUITAR SOUNDS-IT IS ONE OF THOSE EXPERIENCES THAT WE'VE ALL HAD THAT NO AMOUNT OF WORDS CAN CONVEY-ONCE YOU HEAR THE SOUND YOU CAN'T UN-RING THE BELL.

All carbon fiber body and neck, with Fishman Prefix Onboard Blender. It has 21 frets, abelony inlays around the sound hole and on the fret board shaped like sharks, "Rainsong" is also inlaid at the 12th fret position. Tuners are Gotoh. Finsih is gloss of course. The body has a cutaway and it's(body) depth is deeper than a normal dreadnaought. The neck is very thin also and the guitar is very light in weight. The guitar came with a hard shell case, Elixir strings and a set of picks. They also included some stickers, whoopee.

This guitar has a very bright sound and it is also loud. It has good note seperation and the trebles have the bell like quality that the company claims to have. The projection is exellent and so is the balance. When plugged in this is one sweet sounding accoutic. The Fishman Prefix Onboard Blender system has to be one of the best or not the best for capturing that accoustic sound plugged in. The bass on the guitar could use a little more tone but other than that it's loudness makes up for it.

The finih is very nice and has a high tech look to it. The guitar looks of very good cratsmanship. The action is low and the neck is very thin. Overall the guitar feels very comfortable and looks well made.

I think this guitar will last a thousand years. It's made of carbon fiber.

Haven't delt with them yet.

I've been playing for about 15 yrs. If this guitar was stolen or lost I would get another one. Becuase the sound is very impressive, the guitar is very well made. I have an Ovation and Gibson And this guitar just out performs them both. I've played Tacomas and Martins and every guitar has it's own unique sound. The sound from the Rainsong just happens to be the sound that I am looking for. Overall with the carbon fiber, feel, and sound this guitar fits me just fine.

Built in 1999 in Kihei, Maui, HI. Hand crafted. 14 fret neck - 22 total Patented Tuned projection layering top. Dual pick up Fishburn Electronics. Piezo under bridge and microphone in body. All Carbon Fiber. With incredibly rich wood tonalities. Cut away body Schaller tuning Thin neck Case included

As a former Martin D-35 owner, I am constantly impressed with the warmth and resonance in this guitar. Fantastic for classical finger pickin' tunes. The sound is bright without being brassy, very well balanced. Precise bass notes, a bit less BIG on the bass than a D-35. but bvery impressive.

Perfect action. Best miked instrument I have ever heard!! Perfect workmanship. The people at Rainsong take great pride in handcrafting this instrument.

This guitar is almost indestructable. Carbon fiber neck, body, etc. Let it rain during the gig (no problem) Not affected by temperature or moisture.

Dealt with Rainsong personally while they were building the guitar. Very helpfull and friendly Lifetime Guarantee, Have not and probably will not need to have it repaired ever!

Have played for 18 years. This guitar since January 1999. The first one of the new Projection tuned layering sold on Maui.