Aspen AD-2812

Made in Japan! Im not sure when it was made but the serial # is 58760531 if anyone has imformation to help me find out when it was made - I would appreciate it.

The guitar is a solid spruce top (I believe) with what looks like solid mahogony sides and back. Mahogony neck, Very plain markings. This 12 string is exceptional. The body is slightly wider than a standard dreadnaught and is in very good condition.

Today (Oct 26, 02) I took it out of the case for the first time in about a year and began to play. It was in perfect tune and sounded great.

I took this guitar to Sweden, across the U.S. and just about everywhere you can imagine. I recorded in a studio using Sennheiser E609 Flat Profile Micmicrophones. Everyone in the studio was bowled over by the sound - "Big as a House". The feel and sound are unsurpassed and I would and have put it up against guitars of greater stature and cost. no fun to tune but once there it stays there.

Action is superb ! No buzz or rattle. Action as slick as snot on a doorknob.

Gorgious patena, perfect bookmatch top. There is a hole in the top that has been covered by the pickguard (new?) near the bridge. Minor dings (minimal) and has been well taken care of since I acquired it.

I am starting to have minor problems with the tailpiece separating and interior bracing delaminating. I think its from a440 in storage for long periods of time. I will have these repaired, but in the meantime I keep it tuned down a step and a half and use a capo to reduce tension on the neck. wouldn't gig with it but great for recording.

I was going to try to contact Aspen, but as mentioned in other reviews - gone out of buisness.

I have been playing for about 35 years. I have played no better 12 string - Barre none!

Other than..... this is the best 50 bucks i have spent in my entire life. If you have to count times that I remained fully clothed...this is the best ! irreplacable!