Tacoma DR20 Acoustic

Would you believe I only stumbled across this site last week! Anyway, my review of the DR20:

First let me say that I've owned mine for about 3 years now, so I'm qualified to discuss it's pros/cons. Mine is the non-cutaway (I think they all are) acoustic-electric version (i.e. DR20E2). It has a beautiful solid spruce (sitka, I believe) top and equally majestic solid rosewood sides and back. Unlike many Tacomas, the finish on this one is high-gloss. I believe the pickup system in this guitar is made by EMG. There really aren't too many features - it's an acoustic afterall ;). I guess I'd like to see a tone control and EQ built in.

The sound is what got me. Funny how others have compared it's sound to the higher-end Martins. Personally, I was looking for something that sounded like a Gibson jumbo, but in a non-Gibson dreadnaught. I think this nails it! In fact, I'd put this guitar up against ANY Gibson out there, and I really think it would hold it's own. It's loud, extremely resonant and very deep/full sounding (if that makes sense).

I think quality-wise, it's up there with the higher end Martins. I'd say the build quality is higher than the Gibson acoustics. I've got a couple of friends that own Gibsons (J45 and a Dove) and both are annoyed that my Tacoma seems to be better built and has a sweeter sound. They've both wanted to trade for mine - no way!

It's a shame Fender bought this company. I'd be interested in knowing what the build quality is on the post-Fender Tacomas.

Well, as I said, I've had it for 3 years with absolutely no issues. I've taken it camping, used it in coffee houses, etc. I think this will last longer than me!

I've never dealt with them - I've never needed to.

I've been playing for almost 30 years. I've owned many acoustics and electrics for that matter. I knew I had to have this as soon as I heard some kid trying it out at a Cuitar Genter here in Oregon. I sold my Guild F30, Ovation Legend and believe it or not, my Martin D18 a week after bringing this home. I paid a grand for it (Used) and let me say it was the best grand I've ever spent on a guitar!

6 string non-cutaway dreadnaught with solid Sitka Spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides. The machine heads look to be Schallers. Oh, this one came with the EMG pre-amp, so I can plug'er in as well.

I was actually looking at a few mid-priced Martins when I stumbled across this baby. Quite frankly, I had never heard of the company at the time, but when I A/B'd this with the Martins I was looking at (D18, D28), I was very, very impressed. The DR20 seemed to sound bolder and fuller with much more resonance than the 2 Martins. Don't get me wrong - they sounded good, but the Tacoma sounded better!

This guitar is beautifully made. The action was perfect - it's too bad Fender bought Tacoma - I hate it when large corporations swallow the litte guy.

I really can't see anything happening to this guitar - it does seem to be build quite solidly.

Never had to contact them.

I've been playing for over 10 years. This was the first acoustic guitar I have ever owned. I really don't see myself getting another acoustic - this one is just perfect. The tone and overall resonance are beautiful. I still have yet to hear another acoustic touch it. Once, a Martin D35 came close, very close - but it also costed twice as much.

Features well described below. Mine is full dreadnaught with solid rosewood back and sides, very nice spruce top. I will mention the grain on the top is so tight I couldn't count the lines per inch around the sound whole. One of the best tops I have ever seen on a guitar. Tuners really hold their tune. Clear plastic pick guard. Wide 1 and 3/4 inch neck which I like, very easy to play not tight or stiff, easy action. Oversize headstock I think adds to the tone. Beautiful inlays around the sound hole and a fully bound rosewood neck. Additionally, a B-Band pick-up was added.

Everything folk, rock, Jazz Chord solos and I have started plaing Hawaiian, this guitar handles it. Doesn't bottom out when you dig into it. Very loud when strummed hard. Great balance, I think the oversized sound hole really enhances projection. You don't have to use a separate mic for the guitar when you sing, it's that loud. Really rich and full sounding acoustic and I have tried them all. The wide neck makes it very easy to play. Intonation rings true. If you play Hawaiian music the guitar really shines with alternative tunings like a Taro Patch or Wahine Tuning, nive guitar for bluegrass also with a nice loud articulate bass.

The finish is flawless, having bought the guitar used (previous owner had done one string change) the guitar needed a little set-up. I changed the saddle to a Tusq saddle made specifically for the B-Band pick-up and at the same time upgraded the bridge pins to Tusq also. Everything on the guitar lines up perfectly. This is a high quality guitar. Tuners have small buttons on them (my only dislike)but they hold their tune well. The top has herring bone inlay and there is abalone the sound hole.

The guitar came with one strap button at the bottom of the guitar that doubles as the plug in for the pick-up. I tie off at the tuners so the no need for a neck strap button. With the new saddle no string breakage at all. Frets are starting to show some wear. I had a Larrivee prior to this guitar and after many years the frets still looked brand new. It may be the kind of fret wire Tacoma uses. Like I said earlier it is a very loud guitar. I use Ernie Ball not slinky steel strings 12-54, which are made for electric guitars and either a Pick-Boy Classic 1.20mm or a GoldenGate pick. My Tacoma is very loud without breaking up or sounding mushy. Its a cannon.

No opinion. I use local guitar tech.

I have been playing for 35 years the last five years exclusively acoustic. I have sold off all my electrics. Prior to owning this guitar I had a Larrivee that was a fine guitar but a little dry in tone. I really like the Tacoma, it is loud, has lots of tone and easy to play. The sound really jumps right out of the guitar and I am use to the sound. Now when I play other guitars old or new I compare it to that Tacoma. Also the finish fit and finish of the guitar is outstanding.

2004 Tacoma DR20 made in USA pre Fender
Ebony fingerboard & bridge
Bone nut & saddle
Solid Spruce top
Solid Rosewood B/S - beautifully bookmatched back
1 3/4 neck @ nut (slightly wider than Martin D-28)
Tacoma name on headstock in MOP - again beautifully done
Tacoma hardshell case - actually kind of cheap

I went into the local Guitar center with the express purpose of buying a Martin, I have bought6 guitars from them over the years and usually get a right deal, I knew they had plenty of Martins in stock - I played 3 Martins that day (HD-28, Marquis Dread and A D16GTR) - then I saw this used Tacoma DR20 - The Martins are nice, but this Tacoma had THE sound- rich and full across the entire sound spectrum - Full, thick but not booming bass, clear articulate mids and shimmering highs - all for a lot less $$ than the others - first thing I did was have it set up with low to moderate action (I strum a lot, flat pick and fingerpick) for 11's, also had a "crystal" ribbon, completely passive pick up installed -this guitar has the nicest sound and is absolutely full of complex harmonics and tones - I use a .60mm ultrex pick for strumming and flatpicking - and it resonates exactly as you want a dread acoustic to - I have a Taylor and have had high end Yamahas, nothing compares to this guitar as far as the sound that I was looking for - this DR20 has a slightly larger sound hole than standard dreads - maybe thats why it projects so well -

The fit and finish of this particular Tacoma are fine, it was used but in great condition - in fact there wasn't a scratch on it - everything is as it should be - I know some Tacomas have bubbles in their finish, this one is perfect (for now, and hopefully forever)- had it professionally set up and it plays like a dream - can, and do, play it for hours - don't care for the clear pickguard but don't plan on replacing it - the Tacoma case was a little suspect, so I just tote it around in my calton case (a little snug, but it works)

This guitar seems to be very solid - I've been playing for 34 years and have had many guitars - I believe Tacoma was doing a fine job when this particular guitar was built - hopefully Fender won't screw them up too badly - Also, this guitar has a very very colorful Tacoma insert on the headstock that is beautiful mother of pearl - most of the other DR20's I've seen don't have this feature, they are typically just white or ivory looking - the binding is plain black not the typical tortise shell that they have used on some - this guitar sounds incredible at this point and should only open up more with time and sound even better with age - I never gig without a back up and this was going to be my back up for the Taylor, however this is now my main performer -

Have not dealt with Tacoma on any issues and don't anticipate that I will - take care of your equipment and it will take care of you

I've been playing for over 30 years - professionally and in my church - I absolutely love this Tacoma, although I have heard of issues with other Tacomas - it has a completely passive under saddle pick up in it and I play through a Fishman Platinum EQ pre-amp and Roland AC 60 amp - I currently own a Taylor 314CE (solid mahogany)and Yamaha FGX-04 LTD (laminate rosewood) and this Tacoma DR20 (and some very high end electrics that I really never even use anymore)- if it were lost or destroyed I would be heartbroken and I would certainly search for another, however, you have to look closely at really anything you buy (especially used)

Purchased in 2000. Solid spruce top with solid rosewood back and sides. Dreadnaught guitar with no electronics installed. I installed a Fishman Natural Matrix I but it is a little too strong on the bass and feedback is a problem. Fishman does not recommend this pickup for big guitars and I will be replacing it with the Fishman Natural II. I knew this in the beginning and wanted to check it out for myself. I recommend you listen when the manufacturer tells you what not to do.

Sound hole is a little larger such as Clarence White's original guitar that Tony Rice has. Sound hole feedback eliminators do not fit or are loose. Body has a beautiful gloss finish. Quality of this guitar is a class act and I have to wonder why I don't see more of them up here in Canada. I particularly like the Herringbone type of binding on the guitar and the abalone inlaid rosette. Guitar came with a gigbag, I never used. I bought a hard case for it. Chrome tuners.

This guitar is great for Bluegrass, Country, and Gospel Music. It has warm and pronounced sound with the extra bottom end you like to have for bluegrass. I took it to a bluegrass festival in the U.S. and it felt strange that I seemed to be the only one without a Martin, however the sound of the Tacoma sure lifted some eyebrows and it stood right up there with the best of them. I have played many festivals where people have come up later and asked what make my guitar was. (Mostly Martin owners, I never experienced that when I had my D-35) The guitar sounds great into a mic. I will know better how it will sound plugged in when I install the Natural II.

Guitar played well right off the shelf. I like low action just to the point where it doesn't buzz. I use D'Addario EXP Medium Guage strings since new. Because of the extreme temperature changes here in north Ontario from winter to summer I have to adjust the guitar usually twice a year. I have made 2 bridges, 1 for spring and 1 for fall. A little truss rod adjustment and this guitar plays like a dream and stays in tune all year. you just need to keep it from extreme quick temperature changes and let it climatize so it doesn't crack. Overall I can't say enough about the quality of this guitar.

I have gigged inside and outside with this guitar since 2000. I have played in hot dry summer weather and moist damp humid weather outside and even occasionally around the campfire which I strongly do not recommend anyone doing with a quality guitar. This guitar is well built and I never take a back-up to a performance. I strongly believe this guitar will last as long as I need it.

I repair string instruments and look after my own repairs. I have never had to call customer support.

I have been playing semi- pro for 10 years and messin' with the guitar since I was a kid. I am left-handed but play right and maybe that has stymied my playing and held me back somewhat. However I work at it every day and it it continues to get better. I have my own studio, as well an early original Norman B-20 plywood guitar (My campfire guitar), a Larrivee D-05, Martin DX-16GTE, a custom electric bass that I built, a limited edition Hohner Banjo and a couple of keyboards and synths.

If the guitar were stolen and I caught the guy, it would be last thing he would ever steal. If I lost the guitar then I probably deserved to. Would I buy it again? I don't know, from the prices that I have seen others paying it looks like I paid a lot.

This is a 1997 (You can tell the dates by the numbers inside the cavity. They started letter dating after 1997.) Tacoma DR-20. Laminate Rosewood sides and back, solid spruce top, and rosewood fingerboard. No electronics. Chrome GoToh tuners.

This was, hands down, one of the best sounding acoustic guitars ever made by a large company. The only ones that I've liked better were $8,000 custom Taylors and mid 50's / 40's Martins, and there were only a handful of them that I've played that sounded better (MAYBE 3 or 4.). Beautiful bass tones along with great mids and ringing highs. Very nice amount of volume, too. Who would have thought that an instrument with laminate sides and a laminate back could sound so good?

Bought it brand new 6 years ago. I wish the neck was just a little wider as I am currently a semi-professional bass player that teaches guitar on the side. I would like something of a hybrid between a classical neck and standard dread neck. However, considering that it doesn't have that kind of neck I would say that it plays pretty damn good.

Let's see. There is one slight crack in the face, but it hasn't grown in about 3 years. I belive that was my own fault, though. Do have some mild bubbling by the tunes, too. Other than that this instrument has proven to be VERY reliable. I gig with a bass usually, but I wouldn't hesitate to bring this thing out if I needed it.

I have no clue. Never had to call them.

I've been playing guitar for 11 years. This is my baby, and possibly will be one of the best investments I've ever made as a musician, aside from MAYBE my Fender Jazz (and that's a BIG maybe). If it were stolen I'd hunt that bastard down that took it and torture him until he gave it back. I love this guitar THAT much. Favorite feature is the sound. It has the sound of my soul in it, and I don't think I could ever sell or get rid of it.

All the usually sought-after dread features; bound fretbd, solid woods, in the nice rosewood on all but the top.
Satin neck, gloss poly body
Bone nut/bridge
Tacoma tuners
Old style particle board case, though.
Pins have MOP, fret marks and soundhole trim.

That's what sold me - comaring basic dreads from Martin, Taylor, Fender... for the range within $500-800 higher, I could not get the dynamic range and fullness from the others. Bass is full and shy of boomy.
Musical style is new country, acoustic rock, and scale work as I train. I feel this is an excellent choice for fingerpicking and flatpicking where arpeggios need to ring out with even tonality a the major intervals.
Stands up to some of the top brands with strumming.

Highest marks in this category.
Got this one second hand, but obviously played very little.
Great setup with orig strings.
Adjusted action up! a notch with a quater turn of the truss rod. Aggressive strumming and my left hand fretwork allowed some slap/buzz on string 6, initially.
Finish - clean, tight tolerances. Intersting finger joint attachemnt of head. Probably ensures less warpage, or allowed them to add a head with mapling.

Solid strap button on end, but none on neck/body weld. I strap-tie at the neck, however.
I cannot find the weakest point in this guitar. Of the 4 I own, it's the most solidly built (lesser Wash. D-13, Taylor 310CE, Ibanez)

I believe Fender bought the company. How's their support?

This is month 10, but I've put in numerous hours at 30 min to 2 hours each day. I've memorized the fretboard and scale blocks of maj/Hmin/pentMajmin and nearly completed Guitar Magic III with this guitar. Can no longer play the Washburn, but do like the Taylor at showtime!
If you can get it used, you've got a go-anywhere, handle most any style, best of the dread-breed under $1500. Tacoma differs in that it's USA made, has warmth and dynamic range that's hard to beat.

Tacoma DR-20
solid rosewood sides and back, solid sitka spruce top
Gotoh tuners
Hardshell case (not originally supplied with guitar)
wide(ish) thin neck

The Dr-20 I own has a very rich/full sound, I had never even heard of Tacoma guitars about five years ago when I bought mine. I was in a little local guitar shop and heard the owner playing it. (he had just taken it in on trade for something so it is used) After I played it for a while, I decided that I loved it.

My Dr-20 was used (less than 1 yr old), so Im not exactly sure of the factory set-up. But I will say that I have never owned ANY guitar that came from the factory that perfectly suited my particular likes. I did adjust the truss rod slightly (for a hair lower action. The tuners are still solid and tight. THere are no flaws in the finish or the guitar itself that I can find.

This guitar doesn't have a pickup, but I have mic'd it several times with a shure sm-57 with great results. The finish seems thick and dent resistant (I have an eight month old son that's proof of the dent resistance). Everything is solid on the guitar (including strap buttons). The DR-20 is very dependable and I would be very confident doing a gig with only it. (and maybe an extra set of strings)

No dealings with customer support

I have been playing guitar for 15 yrs. I also play a USA Fender HM Strat that I have customized, A fender JD tele. I use a Crate DX-212 amp, a Boss GT-5 effects processor and a Morley, Bad Horsie Wah.

If my DR-20 were lost/Stolen I would go and try my best to find another one. It's sound and playability are comparable or better than many other higher priced guitars, and that was the deciding factor after I played it to buy it.

The person who put medium strings on his Tacoma; no wonder he has vertical cracks on the top, and has neck/fret problems. Tacoma's come with "light" strings from the factory, and they don't recommend medium or heavy strings; due to the extra weight that has to be used to bring medium/heavy strings up to pitch. This will cause the neck to bend, and put the bracing under unnecessary force, which could cause cracking of the Spruce top.

I already submitted this review, but I've had some dealings with Tacoma, and I came away with a bitter taste in my mouth. Their hardshell cases, as you may know, are the most worthless pieces of crap I have ever seen. The handle broke off mine after two months. I contacted Tacoma, and they said to take it to my dealer. That didn't help at all. Then they said they'd send a replacement handle. They didn't. My first call was in November. I finally got a replacement HANDLE in APRIL. 5 months to send me a $5 handle. As much as I love the sound of my DR20, I would NEVER purchase another Tacoma because they don't stand behind their products. I'd rather spend a little more, get a Taylor that doesn't sound as good and be assured that if anything happened they'd take care of me.

2000 DR-20 Tacoma
Features:
Gloss finish
Solid Sitka Spruce top
Solid Rosewood back & sides
4-color herringbone wood top purfling
Rosewood fingerboard and "Tone Shaped" bridge
Rosewood peghead with inlaid Ivoroid logo
Ivoroid body and neck binding
D'Addario strings (gauges .012 - .052)
Gig Bag
Made in the USA

For my style of play it sounds wonderful. Rich, full sound and good sustain. I compared it, at the dealer, to Taylors and Martins with similar features, and was very impressed; and for upwards of 2000 dollars less, I couldn't go wrong.

The action was very high. I adjusted the heck out of the neck, but it needed the saddle shaved as well. I took it to a local shop to have it set up. Spending a few extra bucks solved the problem. It's water under the <i>bridge</i> now. ;)

Looks and feels like it is very well made. The finish seems very durable, and isn't easily dented. "For our gloss models, we use lacquer based UV polyester applied to the thickness of about three layers of standard paper. It is then sanded flat and buffed to a gloss. On our satin models, we use an acid catalyzed 15% sheen conversion varnish."
I had a strap button added. I'm glad they didn't put one on from the factory.

Have not had to call or contact them.

For those wondering what DR-20's <b>are</b> and <b>are not</b> solid wood, I have the list below straigh from the Tacoma web site. I hope this helps to avoid further confusion.
<b>Rosewood-
Backs: 1997 all laminated
1998 - Present all solid
Sides: 1997 & 1998 all laminated
1999 & 2000 cutaways laminated, non-cutaways solid</b>

If it were stolen I would replace it. I absolutely love this guitar! And for the money I simply can not complain. I look at Taylors and Martins as "over-priced". Not that I don't like them. It's just that I don't have a lot of cash to throw around.

1998 DR20, Rosewood back and sides. Its made with quality woods and tuners (Grover). Clear pick guard. It with a gig bag. It's a very nice looking guitar

When I purchased this guitar the sound was excellent. But that was then. It still has great sound when strumming, but gets buzzy when pickin, especially up the neck. I've had it set up more than once and that problem has not gone away. I always play medium strings, recently elixers.

Again, the guitar sound fine new, but I've not been able to get it back to that condition. Its not as if this thing has ever sat around for long periods of time, it's played several time a week. Its been to some top notch repair shops.

This guitar has aged poorly. It now 5 years old and two vertical crack in the top. The fretbroad has slightly lifted off the top. Granted I live in Michigan and it goes through all sorts of weather changes, but I've always tried to keep it maintained. I'm at the point where I'm bringing to look for another guitar, and it won't be a Tacoma.

I emailed Tacoma as soon as the action/sound started to head South. They simply responded, "take it to the shop where I purchased." This didn't help me in anyway. Next time I'm in the shop, I'll be looking for another brand.

This guitar is now 5 years old. Its been well cared for, and it plays poorly, sounds poorly, and is cracking (large cracks). I also have a 19 year old Guild thats been through everything, and it play like a dream. If the DR20 were ever stolen, that'd be fine with me as long as they didn't grab my Guild. I have a few friends with Martins, boy do they play and sound nice. I chose the DR20 because it had similiar features to that of Martins, and the like, and it was about half the cost.

See Previous Review "Stuart C"

The sound is very rich, and I didn't truly appreciate its depth until I played my friend's beautiful Taylor 514ce. It's sound was so thin, and the Tacoma DR20 blows it away!

In my previous review I had posted it as a '10.' I have downgraded it to an '8.' The reason why is the action is not very good. I need to have it re-adjusted. This is not necessarily a bad thing that the action is high, but it's not my style. Compare it with some Martin's. Many Martin's have VERY high action, but sound amazing. It all depends on your preference.

Very Reliable. Excellent finish that will last for YEARS and YEARS! One odd side note- This probably has nothing to do with the guitar, but it is just mysterious. The guitar came with D'Adarrio EXP lights. I played it for about 2 weeks, and then the 'G' string popped. Not a big deal-- I replaced the string, and then replaced all of the strings about a month later with Elxir Polyweb Light's. Two weeks later, the old 'G' string broke. I dont know what the problem is, but it's annonying. It's probably my playing style.

Haven't had any problems.

Very nice guitar. I am a little frustrated with the action right now, but I will get it fixed, and then I will love the guitar even more.

Would buy another one, and then adjust the action RIGHT AWAY!

I own a 2002, Tacoma, Washington built DR20. Solid Spruce top, Solid Rosewood back, sides, bridge, and fretboard. Mahogany neck. Tacoma tuners. 1 3/4" at the nut, easy-to-play neck that reminds me of another well-known guitar that begins with a "T". Mine came with a Tacoma gig bag and D'Addario EXP lights. Dot fretboard markers, Ivoroid binding on body and fretboard, inlaid rosette and headstock. I loved the looks of this guitar before I ever played it.

I am a beginner, and originally went looking for a guitar with a 1 3/4" nut because my short, fat fingers were having trouble isolating strings on the fretboard on my 1 5/8" Dean. I am learning both flatpicking and fingerpicking, and this guitar is great for both. This guitar had me with the first strum! Wonderful bass and crisp highs, the tone is out of this world. I played Martins, Taylors and this DR20. This guitar won in the tone department hands down!

The factory set-up was perfect for me. The action is medium-low, with no buzz when strummed hard, and the neck plays easily. I've looked this thing over many times, and except for one or two small spots of glue on one inside wall, it is perfect. The braces and kerfing are perfect, and as clean as they come. The finish is gloss, except for the neck, which is satin for greater playability. The inlay work is very neat. Earlier Tacomas were said to have a problem with the saddle being too low for much action adjustment, but it looks like I could set the strings down on the frets and still have some angle on the strings at the bridge. You change the strings, play them in a little, re-tune, and it stays tuned, period.

As a beginner, I don't gig, but the workmanship seemes solid on this guitar. It is a light guitar, but has a well-put-together feel.

I originally bought a Tacoma (a '97 model), and when I got it home noticed an almost imperceptable lifting of the bridge on the treble side. I contacted my dealer (who had no more guitars like mine), and they contacted Tacoma. I received a call from a Tacoma Rep within the half-hour. He offered to repair or replace the guitar, my choice. I chose the latter, and received this wonderful guitar a month later. It's almost as if they took my comments and hand-built this guitar for me.

As I said before, I am a beginner, but I can listen to different guitars and tell the difference. I'll take this guitar over any other I have played at twice the price. I would be devastated if this guitar was stolen, and would try to find another just like it. I can't see myself owning other than Tacoma guitars if they maintain this fit, finish, and sound with their guitars. I enjoy playing with my Martin and Taylor playing friends and watching their faces turn green with envy. They can't believe I was able to get a guitar of this caliber at the price I paid. They all want to play my Tacoma, even my guitar instructor, who plays a high-end Taylor that cost more than my first car!

This is a 2002 DR20E4. The 'E4' is for the Fishman Prefix Plus Preamp. This is a guitar. The abalone is beautiful on this guitar, and the wood is absolutely beautiful. This guitar definately is equivalent to a Taylor 810e. There is just one difference, $1300 dollars more, and some gold plated hardware thrown in there.

It is perfect for my style, which is a lot of strumming, as well as some Dave Matthews type riffs. It sounds fantastic! The sound is extremely deep and rich, with crystal clear highs, and some amazing sustain. I have also played a DR12, which is basically the same guitar, minus the gloss finish, and a few cosmetic differences, I think this sounds much clearer and richer.

I've heard many stories about poor action from the factory. I talked to the guitar tech who ordered my guitar, and he adjusted the action before I received it, and it plays just as easily as any Taylor out there.

This guitar will be extremely durable, I am a little cautious, like most owners of nice guitars, simply because it is so dang nice. But the gloss coat, I think, adds greatly to it's durability.
The finish is very thick, and extremely durable.

Never tried.

Basically this guitar doesn't really stand out that much if you were to line up a: Taylor 810, Martin D-28, Larrivee L-09, and a Tacoma DR20; But if you notice, every one of the guitars EXCEPT the Tacoma, has a list price of at least $2300, which is a little out of my price range. In short, this guitar is an amazing value, and probably THE most overlooked guitars for the value!

It's a USA-made dreadnought, solid Sitka spruce top, solid East Indian rosewood back and sides with a solid mahogany neck and a nice rosewood board and bridge. The gloss finish is GORGEOUS- it really brings out the grain of the wood. I picked this out over the DR12 (which is essentially the same guitar) because the neck felt a little faster, the cosmetics were nice, and the tone was just a little bit more resonant. Oh, and the full binding, abalone rosette and wood herringbone are all sweet.

I shopped around Martins, Larrivees, Taylors and a few other high end acoustics. The tone from this guitar really surpassed that of competing guitars costing twice as much. I play a little of everything- jam rock, blues, jazz, country- and this really excels at whatever you give it. The tone is rich, and resonant with a really crisp, full bass response.

The setup I got was really nearly perfect. Maybe that's just the Elixirs. I did think that the action was just a tad too high around the 12th fret. Almost perfect, though.

I haven't had it long enough to really evaluate its durability. It feels solid, though.

Haven't tried.

If it were lost or stolen, I'd be really pissed because I spent a good chunk of money on this thing. Then I'd buy another. Tacomas in general are really fantastic values. C.F. Martin, watch your back.

1997 Tacoma DR20, new, old stock: 20-fret dreadnaught with a solid sitka spruce top, rosewood back and sides, all with a gloss finish, satin neck and peg head, Gotoh tuners. Someone in one of the other reviews says the 97 models had laminated bodies, but if thats true, it's extremely hard to tell. Beautiful abalone inlay around the soundhole and on the fretboard. Simple but elegant.

When I received it, the guitar had Martin Light gauge acoustic strings on it. It sounded like the best Martin I ever played. I put Elixir's on it next and guess what? It sounded like the best Taylor I ever played. The truth is, it sounds like the best guitar I have ever played. I would put it up against any highend name brand guitar for sound. The "tone shaped" bridge and curvy head may not be the norm for looks, but note for note, it will compete and win over most of them. It has incredible bass and crispy high's with sustain that goes on forever. My style leans toward Eagles, America, Fogleberg, or any other acoustic stuff. For what I play, I couldn't be happier with the sound.

This particular guitar did not have a pickguard, which strangely enough keeps me from beating up my guitar. I bought this on E-bay and was worried it would get to me with crummy action, or scratched, or with some sort of hidden problem. There were no surprises. The woods are beautifully matched, the neck was perfectly straight, everything was great. The case showed up a bit worse for wear, but that was it.

I'm a garage guitarist, so I don't know how it would truly hold up on stage. Without the pickguard I wouldn't be as hard on it. Fit and finish seem like they will last for decades.

I have sent 2 e-mails to Tacoma with no response. I was hoping to transfer the warranty, but their website says to contact your local dealer. Compared to their competitors, they would do well to have better customer support via e-mail at the very least. Otherwise, I have a cousin who is an outstanding guitarist and professional service and repair technician. If anything major needs fixing, I'll be sending it to him.

I was actually saving up for a Taylor 410CE when I discovered the Tacoma's. I have spent many a free moment at all the local music stores trying out the various guitars. I thought I had found "it" with the Taylor. However the Tacoma sound is wonderfully consistent across the whole range of their models. I have been lucky enough to play several different models, and all were incredible.

This was an incredibly lucky purchase for this price. I accidenally found this one on E-bay. The seller did a poor job listing this guitar. He spelled Tacoma wrong and didn't list the model number, which means hardly anyone noticed it. I've been playing about 25 years and I also own two Alvarez guitars which I will probably part with. I hardly play them any more. I intend to add a Fishman Dual Coil soundhole pickup to it to run through my Fender Acoustasonic. If this were lost or stolen, I would be heartbroken, because I doubt I would ever get a deal like this again. However, I would definately purchase another Tacoma.

Eventually people are going to figure out that feature for feature they get a super acoustic guitar for less money than the other high end guitars. If you have lot's of money for a guitar good for you, but if you have to value shop like me, take a hard look at Tacoma.

This is a beatiful guitar. Made in Tacoma, WA, it is a 20-fret (14 clear) dreadnaught with a solid sitka spruce top and indian rosewood back and sides, all with a gloss finish. Tacoma has been selling wood to guitar makers such as Taylor for years, and then they decided to start making guitars. I'm not exactly sure how, but the bridge is set up differently than any other bridge you'll see, supposedly to equalize the high and low E strings. Again, one of the most beautiful, elegant guitars I have ever seen.

I mainly strum and flatpick, and the guitar is perfect for that. It has a fuller sound than any of the Martins I had tried. I found it equal to the Taylor 614ce, which costs about $2400. Definitely a full, rich sound.

I didn't buy the guitar directly from a shop; it was used, so I don't know how much of an effect that had. However, compared to my last guitar, the action on this is great. It is low enough to easily bar and slide, yet hardly ever buzzes (only when I mess up :) I looked it over and I can't see anything wrong with it.

I've played it a lot over the past two weeks, but I couldn't really tell you how it's going to stand up. The guy that had it before me had it for a year, but he hardly every played it, so I'm not in a position to say how long it will last. I trust it, though.

No Idea

I've been playing guitar for about two years now. I started with a Fender and wanted to upgrade after a year. I spent a year looking around at other guitars, not wanting to spend more than $800. I practically bought a Martin D-15, in fact went to Guitar Center to buy it, but found there a Tacoma DM-9. It impressed me so much that I put off buying the Martin to play other Tacomas, and found this one, which satisfies everything I want in a guitar. If I lost it, I'd be enraged, and would find whoever took it and take it back. If that didn't work, I'd buy another one. Like I said, it's one of the best I've played at ANY price.

I looked for a solid top guitar for about 2 years. My budjet was around 1200. I was very pleased that Tacoma made a guitar with this amazing sound for less than 800!

This guitar is perfect for blues and for soloing over another acoustic(besides the fact that it is not a cutaway). It sounds amazing when miked. I have yet to try it with a pickup. One area that it thrives in is a reggae type up strum. The highs sound extreamely vibrant.

The action was very high when I first got it. This was adjusted free of charge from my dealer. If I did not get the action fixed It would be a pretty cool guitar for open cord slide playing. The action wasn't to high to play and the strings were high enough off the frets to play with a slide.

Very durable! I treat it very carefully but I have the feeling that it could be droped a few times.

Very good. They gave me lots of advice on this guitar and answered my emails within hours!

I've been playing for like 6 years but I have taken this guitar to a dude who have played for 35 years and he loved it. He told me that I would have this guitar for ever. As one who plays metal and more rock style music, I am surprised that I value this guitar so much. I would enter a building on fire if this guitar was in it while letting my Ibanez s470, 90's Fender strat, and my 47 Gibson lap steel burn, seriously. I compared this guitar with the Laravie, Taylors, Yamahas, and Deans in it's listed price range 800 to around 1300 and I chose this one not for the cheeper price but the sound.

A 2000 DR20 made in Tacoma Washington. Solid spruce top with solid Indian Rosewood sides and a one piece Indian Rosewood back. It has a satin finish with the clear pick guard which looks very cool. Standard dreadnought size. Tacoma's own tuners which are very nice! A good hardshell case was included. Many more feature at www.tacoma.com

Great full sound. Very balanced. I play a mix of flat picking and finger picking, both styles sound equally as good. I installed a Fishman RareEarth dual coil (humbucker) which I think gives it a very natural sound when plugged in. Also, I changed from the Elixir strings to a Electric Jazz string (EJ21) which gave the guitar a very balaced/full sound when plugged in.

The finish is perfect and it seems to be well put together. The woodwork is terrific and the bookmatched is dead on.
The factory set-up was pretty bad. The action was high and uneven. The action on my other guitars are set pretty low so this made it difficult to play right away. The guys at Ken Stanto Music in Marietta, Ga. did a great job setting it up for me for NO CHARGE. They also installed a strap button on the neck for $3.00. I mention this because I noticed that in some of these reviews people are being charged for set-ups on new guitars and up to $10-$15 for a strap button. Because of the factory set-up I can only give it 9.

Built to last period. When playing live I usally have my Takamine 12 string with for certain songs so I there is almost always two guitars. If I did not have a secon guitar I would not worry about back up. The only things I would bring for backup is extra strings and batteries for the Fishman.

Great feature - the warranty is lifetime and transferrable. Because of the quailty of the guitar I do not think I will ever need the warranty. I did email customer support with some question and they responed very quickly with my answers.

100% solid rosewood guitar made in the USA for under $800. This included a hardshell case. That alone is a great value but add in the craftsmenship and great sound I feel it was a steal. I compared it to all of the Top end guitars and know why Tacoma has become the thrid best selling guitar in the US so quickly. I had about a $1500 budget when I went shopping for a new guitar and figured I saved $750 and did not compromise quaility or sound. More to spend on an amp.
If this guitar was stolen I would quickly back capitol punishement for guitar thieves. I beg borrow or steal to replace this guitar. My only hope is that as Tacoma grows that it will be able to keep the pricing far for such a great guitar.

A 1998 made in Tacoma Washington DR-20. Solid top acoustic guitar. Beautiful finish with the clear pick guard. Standard dreadnought size. Tacoma tuners, very nice! I purchased mine with a hardshell case.

I play mostly rock/blues and some folk stuff. I love this guitar. I played Larrivee's, Gibson's, Taylor's and Martin's,nothing else was even close to this guitar. For the money a Tacoma is THE BEST GUITAR you can buy. A wonderful sounding guitar for flat picking or fingerstyle. I've had several people tell me that they have never heard a DR-20 that sounds as good as mine.

The finish of this guitar is excellent. Great craftsmanship at Tacoma. Those guys know how to build an excellent guitar. The action from the fatory was a bit to high for my taste but after a short set up job, its now perfect. I've had this guitar for three years and it wonderful. Had the factory set up been better I would've given it a higher rating.

The more I play this guitar the better it sounds. It seems like it will last a lifetime. I've taken it to several jam sessions and have used it on number of live jobs, in the studio and in rehersals. Excellent all the way around. I never gig without a backup.

I've never had to deal with them.

I've been playing guitar for seven years. I also have a Gibson Les Paul Standard and a Danelectro U2. Both also purchased from the Pickers Exchange. I have a Marshall head and cab. I perfer to enjoy my Tacoma unplugged. I generally mic the guitar whenever I play it at a gig.

2000 model Hand Made in the USA ,With solid Sitka spruce top and solid indian rosewood back/sides with high gloss finish . Dreadnaught body with gotoh tuners comes with gigbag which sucks ,i give it a 9 becouse it doesnt come with a hard case

This guitar sounds incredible for the price good all around although just a little better for strumming .Has a bright but full sound to it

this guitar came right to my hands the day it came to the store and the action is a tad too high so im planning to have it lowered a bit .The top back and sides are the most perfect bookmatch ive seen before ,you cant even see where the two peices meet literlaly.Only when you look real close at the finish can you see that there a couple of little flaws like a little finish dripping but thats it , but hey what can u expect in an all solid guitar for under a grand.

this is a pretty solid made guitar ive only had it for a month so i wouldn't know how well it will last but it has a limited lifetime warranty which satisfies me.Ive hit gainst things before and it hasn't dented so its tough. I don't think any smart person would use a guitar without a backup so i wouldn't use it without one.

i only e-mailed the company once for a question and they were a little slow but were nice.

Ive been playing guitar for about 5 years and know my stuff pretty well.n't have any other guitars but my father has a taylor 514ce and personally(and some friends) think my Tacoma sounds better but that could just be becouse of my Rosewood preference.If this guitar was lost or stolen i would cry becouse i don't have the money to buy it again but i would try to get another or a DR-38 with ebony fretboard and bridge.What i love most is the dressing on this guitar that you get for 800 bucks .Abalone rosette,herringbone purfling and gloss finish .If your looking for a nice guitar thats pretty light on the wallet then look at one of these

American-made 1999 model, solid woods throughout, with Spruce top and Rosewood sides and back, all in a very, very nice gloss finish. Nice Abalone rosette, very nice four-color wood herringbone purfling and nice ivoroid binding on body and neck. Headstock is topped with Rosewood and logo is inlaid ivoroid. Neck is mahogany with smooth satin finish, with rosewood board and decent Abalone dot inlays, which are also on the string pegs in the bridge, which is pretty cool. The frets are medium-jumbo and of good quality. Tuners bear Tacoma's name and are very good quality. The buttons are small, which I find kinda cool. Mine came with a hard case; don't know why, 'cause I think these generally come with a gig bag. It's not a super high-quality case, but I'll take it over the Ziploc bag any day. For the money, I just don't know where you can get features like these. Strung with Gore Elixirs, which I consider to be the best you can get - a nice touch.

I mostly flatpick folk and rock stuff, and I like to have some projection when I bang, and this one does it with great clarity. I attribute this to the solid Rosewood sides and back. A friend came over recently with his early-90's Martin Shenandoah (Spruce & Birdseye Maple) and this just really outdid it in warmth and fullness, especially on the bottom. I know it's an apples to oranges comparison, but it just sounded better all-around to me. The highs shimmer and project well also, but I love it for the deep stuff.

My only area of less than 100% satisfaction. The action was pretty high when it came to me. I took it to my local luthier to lower it, which he prefers to do in increments. I am pretty happy now with where it's at, though I don't see much more room on the saddle to take it down, though he says he could. I'm just going to live with it and be happy knowing that I should never have to worry about buzzing. I should mention that I sold a Gibson ES-335 to get this, and the action on that, being a fine, fine electric, was really low. I've read other reviews that mention high action, so I'm wondering if that's just the way Tacoma sets 'em up. I may switch the strings to custom lights (.011-.052) as opposed to the lights (.012-.053), but I don't want to lose that sweet beefy depth. The construction is just plain top-notch. I don't see Martin, Larrivee, Guild or any of the custom boys putting 'em together any better.

Upon first picking it up, I noticed that it is definitely a light guitar. Others have mentioned this, too, and it was definitely lighter than my friend's Shenandoah. I don't know where the weight differs, though, and it doesn't give me the impression of cheapness or a lack of durability. It's a solidly made guitar that should last a lifetime. The finish is beautiful and deep. The one strap button is solid (I'd have liked one on the heel, but I understand why they don't put them on; some people don't like 'em there, and it's an easy install) and I definitely feel I can depend on this. I would gig without a backup if I had to, but that's never a good idea for anyone.

Another great feature - the warranty is lifetime and transferrable. So, if you bought one used, you could pay Tacoma fifty bones and have the warranty transferred. Does anyone else do that? I don't think so. I e-mailed the company to ask about registering the warranty, as the dealer I bought from forgot to send me the warranty card, and they were quick to respond and very helpful. I doubt I'll ever need the warranty, and hope I never have to get it repaired.

Overall, this is a beautiful guitar, regardless of the price. I feel like I stole it for what I paid. I didn't mention the dealer, because when they sent me the warranty card and receipt to send to Tacoma, they sent a receipt for $699. I'm thinking they sell 'em on eBay for cheaper than Tacoma wants them to, but I love this guitar and I'm not going to rat out the nice folks who sold it to me dirt cheap. Even at the usual "discount retail" of $800 or so, you won't find a better guitar. It holds up with and surpasses ALL the Martins, Larrivees, Guilds and others I've tried. Plus, you get some nice features and all solid wood put together by craftsmen. Tacoma is out there to give guitarists what they want: beautiful instruments with sound to match. They're not out to gouge you, so check them out.

Beautiful professional-level dreadnought acoustic guitar. Spruce top, rosewood back and sides, mahogany neck, rosewood overlay on headstock. Rosewood fingerboard, abalone dot inlays and soundhole purfling, 4-color wood binding on the body, ivoroid neck binding. No electronics. Didn't want 'em. Deep, deep gloss laquer on everything except the neck, which has the smoothest, fastest satin finish I've ever seen on an acoustic guitar. The only thing keeping this category from scoring a perfect "10" is that there was no strap button installed on the neck heel, and it came with a (admittedly high-quality) gig bag rather than an actual hardshell case. Otherwise, this is the best value in guitardom. Period.

I still keep going back and looking at my receipt just to remind meyself of how little I paid for this work of art. Before buying this Tacoma, I tried Martins, Larrivees, Taylors, Collings(-es?), Lowdens, Santa Cruzes, and even a few custom builders, but nobody--NOBODY--could make a guitar with this sound at anywhere near this price. My DR20 kept up with and even surpassed $2000+ instruments from the aforementioned makers. Strong, full projection. Wondefully complex overtones, and an uncanny balance for a dreadnought. I play mostly fingerstyle, and I never have a problem getting whichever string that I feel like to speak. Tacoma has broken the mold with its bracing and bridge patterns, and I, for one, am ecstatic. Plus, it came strung with Gore Elixir strings, which so far have lasted WAY longer than any string I've previously used, and still have that deep, bronzey chime of a new string after three weeks of hard playing. The plain steels will need replacing before the wound strings will, which is just weird. But who's complaining?

Workmanship and detailing are flawless, at any price range. There are NO gaps or misalignments anywhere on this beauty. Seams and joints are frighteningly smooth. Whoever made this guitar cared about his (or her) work. There's pride in this thing. Action was a little high for me, but my guitar shop took care of that before I took delivery of the guitar.

I see no reason why this guitar shouldn't last for decades. It's built very, very well. The finish is deep, the woods are top-quality, and the hardware is primo. Nice big frets, so they shouldn't wear down for years.

I cannot stress enough how helpful and prompt Tacoma's customer service is. When I first bought the guitar, I sent a little congratulatory email just to let them know how much I appreciated their handiwork, and I got no less than three thank-you emails within 24 hours. Personalized, too; not form letters. Then a few days ago, I emailed with a question on how to install a strap button on the neck heel, and I had a detailed, explicit set of instructions from Julian (very helpful man) within THREE HOURS. Try to get one of the big boys to be that prompt with you.

I have been playing for 15 years, and I've owned a large array of both acoustic and electric instruments: Ovation, Yamaha, Charvel, Gibson, Epiphone, Horabe (a classical). This guitar is at the top of the list in terms of value, quality, sound, and just general overall impression. If anybody--ANYBODY--steals, breaks, busts, folds, spindles, or mutilates my DR20, I will see that the person dies a horrible, painful death and serves an especially tormented stint in Hell. I will then sell that person's worldly goods and buy myself a few Tacomas. I will then resurrect said person, show them what I've done with their stuff, and then make sure they die horribly again.
Snap these instruments up before Tacoma realizes how great a deal they are and raises the price.

1998, US-Made. Wood varies from year to year. The 1997's had laminate back and sides, the 1998's have solid backs, and the 1999's have solid back and sides. All have solid Sitka spruce tops. Bridge is rosewood and tone-shaped. Abalone soundhole inlay. 4-color herringbone purfling. Gloss finish. Clear lexan pickguard. Smaller Gotoh-style tuners. Rosewood fretboard. Ivroid binding on body and neck.
The DR20 is a pretty nice combination of "stripped down" and pretty. I like the looks of their DM (mahogany-backed) guitar series better, tho'. I prefer the tortise-shell binding to the herringbone binding.
The DR20, for some insane reason, only comes with a gig bag from Tacoma and doesn't have a HSC. This gives a bad impression to the customer, and I'd rather they sold the guitar for $50 more and threw in the HSC. It gives the impression that the company feels their guitars are worth protecting.

Here's one of my beefs with this particular guitar (YMMV). I played a 1999 Tacoma DM16C, and it was one of the most beautiful sounding, well balanced, bright, crisp guitars I've ever played. So I ordered the DR20 expecting a similar sound (somewhat niavely, I realize). My DR20 has what could be described as a "warm" sound, but to me it's just not bright enough unless the strings are only hours old. This is, admittedly just my taste, and some prefer a warmer sound from acoustics. For recording, I have to throw new strings on it every session, and within three hours they start to sound dead.
The guitar is very light and resonant, and has excellent sustain. Less so higher up the neck, but that's to be expected.

The string action is just a hair high for my taste, but I'm mainly an electric player. Other than that, it's great. No buzzes, no intonation problems, the nut was just right. Fretwork and build quality was great. There was a very slight gap where the fretboard met the top of the guitar, but it's very minor and the only flaw in a very meticulously-built guitar.

Hmm... It's an acoustic first of all, and it's a very light one to boot. I wouldn't want to bang it around much, but the gloss finish is very durable and should stand up to the usual bumps and scrapes. I've heard great things about Tacoma's service department, so that makes me feel good about that end of things.

Calls were answered promptly and they were very helpful. Email from their web site (as often seems to be the case) is hit or miss. When they get it, it gets answered in a reasonable amount of time.

I've been playing guitar for 15 years, but have only been a serious acoustic player for about a year. I have about 9 guitars currently, including a nylon string acoustic, a Washburn EA20 cutaway semi-acoustic, and a Yamaha FX-series solid-top cutaway dreadnaught with a pickup.
I wish I had known about the back/side wood issue with regard to year in the Tacoma's. Also, the 1999's have an improved glue and bolt neck joint that I thought they all had. So, basically, the 1999's have better wood and a better neck joint than previous years. Had I known this, I would not have purchased a "last year's model".
If I had it to do over again, I'd probably buy a Larrivee for about the same price for the better wood, better neck joint. I've also come to realize that I really require a cutaway for my style of acoustic playing, so my next guitar will have one of those as well.

1998 Model, Mahogony/Spruce, Rosewood Neck, Minimal understated design. Wood is nice, again uderstated. I would have preferred a Satin finish to the back and sides. Nice grain in the Spruce Top and the design around the edge is first rate...woodworking is top shelf.

I like to finger pick Art Rock stuff ala Yes, ELP, Tull. I like folk and the new stuff too. I just enjoy all music but generally the clean sound of an acoustic. Tacoma makes a big deal about the choice of woods, bracing and construction to get it's sound. Well, they've succeeded to my ears. I like a solid rich bass and bell like mids without harshness and brightness in the mids and treble and I have it here. It's new so it's not quite there but I tried 3 others while auditioning and they were wonderful. Mine's a bit bright now; we will see. What struck me the first time I played it was the sustain...the notes just fade away and the projection is first rate (reminds me of the Lowdens in this respect). The overall sound could be warmer (perhaps a cedar top option?) but I love this guitar. It plays what I like to play very nicely.

When I got this guitar I was dissapointed at first. The action was heavy and quite high; nothing like the demo guitars I tried in the stores. I got the action lowered and the strings replaced and shazzam it plays as easy as the Taylors I tried. Fit and finish is first rate. Woods and finish clean and natural (prefer satin finish). I tried a lot of guitars, these I (liked): 1)all the Taylors (514C), several Alvarez (PD-100), Lowdens (OM's), Guilds, Takamine, Martin (Clapton model), Tacoma (DR20)...I searched and played everything I could and this guy won. Great price, great sound, easy to play!!

This is a very solidly built and crafted guitar. Seems quite rugged and it hasn't gone an iota out of tune yet...nothings moving!

Have not dealt with the company...no need!

Get a real case for it...I did!! Would I buy something else instead?? Perhaps the Lowden for it's sound, I liked the Taylor 514C but the price was 2x this guy and it's not any easier to play. Martin? The only one I really liked was 3x the price. This guy could be prettier but I'm willing to sacrifice that for a well crafted, easy playing, great sounding inexpensive guitar any day! Check it out.

A U.S.A made dreadnaught acoustic. Solid spruce top, rosewood sides, gloss finish (except for the back of the neck, which is satin), abolone soundhole trim, lightly textured transparent pick guard, 22 jumbo frets, Gotoh tuners. No electronics. It has sort of a curvy-shaped bridge that compliments the drednaught shape and unique headstock.
The transparent pick guard draws attention to its very light colored top. Roll it over and you'll find dark, smoky greyish brown sides and a similarly grained back but with a hint of a burgundy tint to it. This forms quite a sharp contrast against the satin-finished, brightly colored (almost orange) neck.
The features of this guitar precisly fit my taste but may not fit yours. I'll pass on assigning them a number.

The first time I picked up a Takoma DR-20, I decided it was the best sounding guitar I've ever played. I bought one that day. Now, a few months after the initial purchase endorphins have subsided, a few faults have reared their heads. This guitar has an enormously bright tone, ask it to solo and it will sing. The down side is that the bass characteristics seem overshadowed sometimes while finger picking or strumming. A set of mediums seemed to balance out the sound but the guitar's neck didn't appreciate it- it bowed slightly, raising the action. Don't take this as criticism, the guitar didn't come set up for mediums. I'm sure it would respond fine to heavier strings if I have it properly set up. So far, the sonic shortcomming hasn't been enough to warrant a trip to the guitar shop. I have it strung now with some Martin bronze lights I had laying around and the neck has returned perfectly straight.
I know this sounds corny but the best way to describe the sound is "Happy." For an up-beat jam its great- for a mellow ballad I switch to a different guitar. Again, I don't want to give the sound a score. It is definitly unique and not for those of you who consider Martin the ideal.

I generally prefer medium guage strings. This is my only guitar with lights and that is just because it came set up that way from the factory. With the lights, the action is perfect for my style though I have heard some complain it's a bit high. I think this perception is due to the jumbo frets rising higher from the neck than the frets of most guitars. Play this guitar as hard as you wish anywhere on the fretboard and you'll find not a single buzz. I can't tell you haw nice that is. The fit and finish are absolutely flawless- no joke! Every part meshes with amazing precision. It has a quality apperance that rivals more expensive brands. Sure, I don't get to say "I have a Taylor" but I can rest easy knowing that sombody in Washington state really gave a damn about what he was building.

I'm now playing my second DR-20. In the past, I did all my set-up work myself. What a mistake that proved to be. A trussrod adgustment I made shortly after I bought the guitar resulted in a split in the back of the neck. With the help of Precision Guitar of Mt. Pleasant, SC (from whom I did not purchase the guitar) Tacoma waranteed it. The moral of the story: leave guitar work to the professionals. I think if I have enough sense not to tinker with it, this guitar could last a lifetime.
I don't gig, however I can see no problems if I was to. It's as solid as a rock.

I spent quite a bit of time on the phone with the folks at Tacoma when I split that neck. And I have to admit that I presented them with an ambiguous situation. In the end, they gave me a new guitar and I am forever thankful. Should you buy one, do yourself, and Tacoma, a favor and have any work done on it done professionally.

If it was stolen, I would replace it with the same model. If it was lost? Well, there's no chance of that.
The sound isn't perfect, but I doubt I'll ever hear a guitar that is. Call me shallow but the look of it means alot to me. When I come home from work and see it in its stand, its brightly finished top almost says "Hey wanna play- c'mon, it'l be fun. It is.

Dreadnought acoustic. Beautiful guitar: solid rosewood back and sides, solid spruce top, four color wood purfling, white binding on body and neck, abalone rosette and dot markers, translucent pickguard, unique headstock shape. Visually, this is a very striking guiar that looks something like a Martin D-35.
The neck is 1.75" wide at the nut, the fretboard has a 20" radius. The neck has a slim profile, i.e., not as chunky as a Martin.
It came with a nylon gig bag, which seems riduculous for a guitar of this quality. I bought a hardshell case for it immediately.

This guitar sounds great. Good bass, very clear and bell-like treble. Compresses a little when strummed hard, but very satisfying overall. I've got an Ovation Legend and a Seagull SM-6, and while I like them both, neither compares tonally with this guitar - they're not even close.

The fit and finish were flawless - this guitar is obviously very carefully constructed. The action is the only thing about the guitar that I'm not unreservedly enthusiastic about. It came with medium gauge strings (i.e., .-13's) and was set up with a lot of relief. With this setup, the volume and sustain were fantastic, but the combination of relatively stiff strings, lots of relief, and a very flat fretboard made it a challenge to play -- at least for me.
I almost immediately switched to light strings, but even with the generous relief I was getting some fret buzz on the high E and B strings. I've tweaked everything to the point where I've eliminated most of the buzzing even though I subtracted some relief. Still, the action is not for the faint of heart, i.e., it's not as playable as either my Seagull (very low action) or my Ovation (low action). It's not as low as most of the Martins and Taylors I've come across, either. I'm planning to have a profesional set-up done to see if I can improve it a bit more.

It seems to be very well built. The tuners are Gotoh and seem solid. Everything else seems first class.

Haven't had any dealings with Tacoma yet, so I can't comment on their support.

I've been playing for 25 years. In addtiion to Ovation and Seagull acoustics I mentioned above, I play a Fender Strat Plus, a '72 Telecaster Custom, and an Epiphone Les Paul Custom.
If this guitar were stolen, I'd buy another one. In today's market, finiding a solid spruce and rosewood guitar for $769 seems an unlikely proposition. For example, $769 will barely buy you a plain-Jane Martin D-1R made with laminated rosewood. Thus, to find a guitar at this price that not only is of solid rosewood and spruce but that has visual appointments that rival a Martin d-35 or Taylor 814 is incredible. I'd advise anyone considering a Taylor or Martin to check out the Tacoma first - you might decide to go for it and save yourself $750 in the process! Great guitar.