Well, the latest and likely last (for awhile) salvo in archtop wars. I really like the AR380 - I think the neck feels a bit different and the body depth is about perfect. It doesn't sound highly "acoustic" though, which is what I'd expect for a full laminate construction. So the next step was to go the full monty, and enter the AR880CE.
Short story - does exactly what I want. It sounds like an "amplified acoustic guitar" when I'm into a full range-type setup, sounds like a woody jazz box when into a guitar amp setup. I had to do a bit of tweaking when it got it but to be expected - new strings, tuned a half step flat, small truss rod and bridge tweak. Plays great and not clear I really need an acoustic guitar hanging around at the moment. The AR380 is a different beast, and my AR580 has flats so that is another vibe. May be the lasting combination (ha!)
Pics or it didn't happen
![[Image: 880-1.jpeg]](https://nostatic.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/880-1.jpeg)
![[Image: 880-6.jpeg]](https://nostatic.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/880-6.jpeg)
![[Image: 880-9.jpeg]](https://nostatic.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/880-9.jpeg)
Short story - does exactly what I want. It sounds like an "amplified acoustic guitar" when I'm into a full range-type setup, sounds like a woody jazz box when into a guitar amp setup. I had to do a bit of tweaking when it got it but to be expected - new strings, tuned a half step flat, small truss rod and bridge tweak. Plays great and not clear I really need an acoustic guitar hanging around at the moment. The AR380 is a different beast, and my AR580 has flats so that is another vibe. May be the lasting combination (ha!)
Pics or it didn't happen
Eastman AR880CE | AR580CE | E10OM-TC | Comins GCS-1 Bigsby | Fender Ultra Strat | Beard Radio R Standard Hipshot
Fodera and Nordstrand fretted - Rob Allen and Nordstrand fretless basses
www.nostatic.com ” sometimes science is more art than science…” -Rick Sanchez
Fodera and Nordstrand fretted - Rob Allen and Nordstrand fretless basses
www.nostatic.com ” sometimes science is more art than science…” -Rick Sanchez
