OldStrummer is having GAS withdrawals, I think! I received word about the custom guitar I'm having built, with photos, and while the prospect of having an archtop made to my specifications is thrilling, it's been nearly a year since I started the process, and it will likely be a few more before I hold it.
In the meantime, I've been enjoying playing -- mostly acoustic, but lately I've plugged in again. I've added some small (but nice!) guitars to my stable, and yet I'm unfulfilled.
Today, I took my little gem, my Taylor GS Mini-e Koa across the river, into another state, where the only authorized Taylor service in my area is located - 35 miles in horrific traffic (even on weekends). Forty years ago, when I was in college, I used to shop there and have service work done. It's an awesome place, and they have guitars in stock that only other shops can dream about.
Having dropped off my GS Mini, I made the mistake of going into the store.
Made worse was the invitation by the sales guy in the acoustic room to "Play all you want, spend as much time as you like." So, I did.
I won't go into the variety of guitars I tried. But what I will say is that I was taken by two. The first was a Taylor Builders Edition 324ce.
Well, I was just noodling around, almost ready to leave, when my eyes couldn't believe what they saw: A small-bodied, 12-fret 12-string acoustic with electronics and a cutaway! A Taylor Builders Edition 652ce
I recently told myself that I'd not get another 12-fret guitar. But I played this and fell in love! My first new guitar (which I still own) is a huge, dreadnaught 12-string that has some nifty features, but great sound isn't one of them. I couldn't believe how nice this guitar felt and played!
So, I've been exchanging messages with the rep. I will have to go back and pick up my GS Mini when it's ready, so if this guitar is still in the store, I may be plunking down the shekels...