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+--- Thread: Which AC model for Jazz acoustic? (/Thread-Which-AC-model-for-Jazz-acoustic)
Which AC model for Jazz acoustic? - JazzUp13 - 03-27-2024
Hi There!
I am new to the forum!
I play Jazz Guitar on a semi-hollow guitar so have no experience in what wood would be best for Jazz acoustic?
Looking at the AC522CE and up models as I like the arm bevel and soundport.
I was at a jazz session the other week and fellow jazzers brought along their Taylor acoustics and one Martin D18 and I loved the sound of them! Someone so pure all hearing an acoustic playing a jazz standard with no amps!
A friend of mine has 3 Eastmans! The gypsy jazz model, the John Pisano model and a Romeo and recommend that I have a look at the Eastman acoustics.
My first acoustic guitar (sold many moons ago) that I had many years ago before Jazz was a sitka spruce and mahogany back and side so my first thoughts were the AC522CE, however I wanted to hear if anyone had an experience with the other AC models with Maple and or the Rosewood back and sides. I have done a lot of research and watched countless videos and still can't decide. I would buy online and don't have the opportunity to try in store.
I am looking for a guitar that is articulate, warm and some volume to play melodies and complex jazz chords.
Any advice?
RE: Which AC model for Jazz acoustic? - Oldjock - 03-28-2024
@ Jazzup13, as an New AC522ce owner myself (3 months), I am searching for different sounds.
To quote you, " I am looking for a guitar that is articulate, warm and some volume ..." would be, at least to my ears, the very definition of this guitar. Where I locate my strums, makes a difference to the sound. I love the versatility of this guitar to play various genres and sound good. During my GAS phase, I deliberated between the 522 and 622. The choice between mahogany or maple seemed to waver with a sound which was softer or brighter. I decide on the AC522ce and have been very pleased.
Also, I am learning fingerstyle, using fingertips and have found the volume to be much reduced. My solution was to purchase a Boss AC-22LX amp and all is well.
RE: Which AC model for Jazz acoustic? - JazzUp13 - 03-30-2024
Thanks Oldjock for the response. I am a bit worried about volume.. I won't be strumming with Jazz chords.. However I think Mahogany will cut through better than Rosewood..
What strings have you put on your AC522CE?
I have ordered an AC522CE with a shop that allows for a 14 day easy return period! Arriving today and I will be able to give it a proper play tomorrow and see what I think.
I was looking at getting an acoustic amp as well to help with volume.
RE: Which AC model for Jazz acoustic? - Oldjock - 03-30-2024
Just a few weeks ago I changed strings from D'Add EJ 12 - 53 to D'Add XS 11 - 52. So far so good. They broke in quickly, a bit easier on the fingertips but I really like that they make less squeak when sliding. They claim that the light coating increases longevity, will have to wait and see.
I should also add that the XS strings sound warm and balanced to my ear. The amp is still required when using flesh on fingerstyle.
RE: Which AC model for Jazz acoustic? - hardycreek1 - 04-01-2024
I have a 522 with Martin Monel Retros 12-54, absolutely love the sound. And yes, there has been a significant improvement in the sound during the first 11 months.
The guitar is astounding. Many people say Eastmans are the best "for the money." Baloney. I say they're the best regardless of price.
