Product: Madeira A-12
Price Paid: US $130.5 used
Submitted
09/18/2003
at
12:03pm
by
Mike
Email: madeira<at>charlestonarea dot com
Features
:
8
Early 70s 12-String. Chrome open machines, mahogany sides/back, solid spruce top (I think it is solid). Made in Japan? This is Guild's Asian version. Supposedly parts made in US and assembled in Japan. If you know better, please send me email. Satin finish. Dreadnought style with 14 frets to the body. Adjustable bridge. Neck is really thin, like an old Yamaha, rosewood covered.
Sound
:
10
My style is light fingerpicking or light finger-strumming. The sound of this guitar with Elixir strings is perfect for this syle (for my ear). A little weak on the lows with light strings, but such a sweet, complex sound. I can't believe I picked up this guitar for $130.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
BEST action for a 12-string I ever played. Easy on the fingers, no buzz. Finish is really nice, especially for a 30 year old guitar. No separation of binding, not cracks except tiny one in the rosewood bridge that doesn't affect the sound.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
30-years old. No structural or finish problems. Nuff said.
Customer Support
:
No Opinion
Unknown. Never spoke with them.
Overall Rating
:
10
I just keep grinning. Essentially I got a beautiful vintage Guild for the cost of a hotel room. It sounds really wonderful, perfect for me. Seller was completely honest about condition. I chose it for the price. I love the action and sound. My favorite features has to be both of these. I hate the fact that it is not a US Guild! I own a 1972 Martin D35 and several various old other guitars (Yamaha, Kay, Nagoya, etc.). If lost or stolen I would try to find a comparable old Guild if possible, but would snap up another Madeira in a heartbeat. These old guitars are a steal at their current pricing. Also might snag one that I could take on the road, as I would leave an old Guild at home. ;-)
