Posted 2015-07-03 3:32 PM (#513090) Subject: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 7222
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest
They are pretty busy this week but in a recent message asked me to post a "Happy 4th of July" weekend message. The message is that you might want to visit this thread tomorrow as there may be something exciting to talk about and share. I wonder what it could be?
Posted 2015-07-03 4:15 PM (#513093 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2008 Posts: 2683
Location: Hot Springs, S.D.
Funny you should mention Taylor. I just had a guy from South Africa in here falling all over himself when he saw the expensive koa Taylor I had in here. After he had played it for a bit I asked him what he thought of Ovations. He said he didn't like them because they sounded "tinny". I explained the difference between the overseas models and the USA made, then I put a USA Elite T in his hands. He was blown away and said now the Taylor sounds tinny compared to the Ovation. And for half the price!
Posted 2015-07-03 11:40 PM (#513102 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2002 Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch
With fiberglass speaker cones
The real message tomorrow is that Moody found a new shirt for Darkbar. It has a round back. We're having the ovation sewn on and will present it to him tomorrow. It is an irredescent pink and blue color.
Posted 2015-07-04 6:28 AM (#513107 - in reply to #513096) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: October 2012 Posts: 1034
Location: Yokohama, Japan
xraiderman - 2015-07-03 8:25 AM
Ovation guitars hasn't been purchased by Taylor Guitars....LOL
Geez...thanks for the clarification. Just got back from a business trip and I thought my heart was gonna sink and explode! It's July 4th not April 1st! LOL! Happy 4th OFC.
Posted 2015-07-04 9:48 AM (#513112 - in reply to #513104) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
stonebobbo - 2015-07-04 2:25 AM
It'll go with his mauve slacks!
(((Nancy frantically wiping Mt Dew off her keyboard before it shorts out, while trying to stop the spray of pop still coming out her nostrils and threatening to come out her ears...)))
Posted 2015-07-04 1:24 PM (#513115 - in reply to #513111) Subject: RE: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
mileskb - 2015-07-04 9:30 AM
We’re Back! ?#?ovationguitars? ?#?ovationUSA?
Is this the New Ovation???? What model? Can we see the front? Is it ready to be released???
Details Man!!! We want details!!!! What else is in the line up for future release? When will the web page be updated with prices and Dealers???
Posted 2015-07-04 1:57 PM (#513117 - in reply to #513115) Subject: RE: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: April 2015 Posts: 25
Location: Tennessee
naellis58 - 2015-07-04 1:24 PM
mileskb - 2015-07-04 9:30 AM
We’re Back! ?#?ovationguitars? ?#?ovationUSA?
Is this the New Ovation???? What model? Can we see the front? Is it ready to be released???
Details Man!!! We want details!!!! What else is in the line up for future release? When will the web page be updated with prices and Dealers???
Posted 2015-07-04 4:15 PM (#513124 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: April 2013 Posts: 101
Location: NW Indiana
This is Great news, and made this 4th of July even more special! I wish the best of luck to everyone at DW, all the employees at the New Ovation Guitar Company, and all of us OFC'ers eagerly awaiting their new USA made Ovation guitar!
Posted 2015-07-04 6:03 PM (#513127 - in reply to #513120) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: September 2006 Posts: 10777
Location: Keepin' It Weird in Portland, OR
xraiderman - 2015-07-04 1:19 PM
you gotta believe!
Just remember folks...
All the equipment was removed for the Greenwoods Road facility.
They could have found empty space anywhere.
But they chose New Hartford, Connecticut.
How Cool is That?
Posted 2015-07-04 7:51 PM (#513129 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 7222
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest
For the folks on Facebook, check it out... It's blow'n up with great news from Ovation !!!!! I'm not at home so if someone else wants to link the videos here, please do. Also, if you want to make your own video, you are encouraged to do so and post it with the hashtags above.
Posted 2015-07-05 9:55 AM (#513145 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2002 Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch
I hear that they are coming out with a new 3 string balika in a euro-cut mauve. It will have a built in phase shifter. It will be followed by a 5 string long scale uke after that will be something really special
Posted 2015-07-06 7:56 AM (#513160 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2006 Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains
Such wonderful news. So, does this open the possibility that there could be factory tours and annual get-togethers at or near the new Mothership in our future? I have many fond memories of those I attended in the past.
Posted 2015-07-06 12:01 PM (#513167 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 7222
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest
AstroDan (and anyone else) they are usually just self explanatory one liners like the above which is the only "photo". The rest are video's ranging from Bill Kaman in a field with some friends, another from Melissa Etheridge and another from Kevin Cronin. They are actual Facebook videos which I haven't figured out how to share here yet.
Posted 2015-07-06 1:15 PM (#513170 - in reply to #513168) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
For those not on FB, some of the other news from "The Ovation Instruments Collectors Board" on Facebook include:
That the lease on the ORIGINAL building in New Hartford has been signed by Don Lombardi of DW Drums, and according to Peggy Budny, "the machinery IS IN PLACE!"
So not only do we get to keep John B and Crew, but they will be in the Original Factory, the Machinery is IN PLACE to start work, so we get a Full Mothership again, and Ovations are going to be made in the USA again. (Seriously, how Lucky could we get???)
"The Official Announcement" was made by Beal for DW on the 4th of July!!!! He passed the Torch onto DW in a Great Video!
Melissa Etheridge and Kevin Cronin (REO) also made announcements of the Home Coming of Ovation, and Kevin announced a Signature Ovation coming soon! He didn't say Viper, but there was allot of happy speculation on it being a Viper Model.
Lots and Lots of Fantastic News for the 4th Holiday!
Everybody is Super Excited - it was the Perfect Day to Announce everything, and the fireworks just added to the Happiness of the Announcements!
Posted 2015-07-06 1:30 PM (#513171 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2010 Posts: 486
Location: Suisun City, Ca
Thanks folks. I can't open FB here at work...
I'll tell you right now, if that guitar is going to be built, I'm getting one and I want a 12er too.. Love the top, no fret markers, American O craftsmanship... Oh yeah!
Posted 2015-07-06 5:07 PM (#513176 - in reply to #513171) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: September 2006 Posts: 10777
Location: Keepin' It Weird in Portland, OR
AstroDan - 2015-07-06 11:30 AM
Thanks folks. I can't open FB here at work...
I'll tell you right now, if that guitar is going to be built, I'm getting one and I want a 12er too.. Love the top, no fret markers, American O craftsmanship... Oh yeah!
I believe that that is an Asian-made guitar...
I believe that is a beater Celebrity CC24-FKOA.
DW just got Ovation, they haven't made any guitars yet.
Sorry Dan.
Posted 2015-07-06 7:19 PM (#513179 - in reply to #513176) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
I don't think it will be very long before we see the Inaugrial Run coming off the Line though! They had tremendous support with the Announcent, and are going to want to keep the momentum going. If the machinery is in place, and materials are in stock, I think we will see the first New Generation fairly soon! YES!!!!!!!!
Posted 2015-07-06 7:39 PM (#513180 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: September 2003 Posts: 9301
Location: south east Michigan
Patience... It's gonna take a while. Turning empty space into production space is big undertaking. Then there are prototypes to be made... then things to be learned from those prototypes and adjustments made. It's gonna be a process.... not an event.
Posted 2015-07-06 8:06 PM (#513181 - in reply to #513180) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Brad Durasa - 2015-07-06 7:39 PM
Patience... It's gonna take a while. Turning empty space into production space is big undertaking. Then there are prototypes to be made... then things to be learned from those prototypes and adjustments made. It's gonna be a process.... not an event.
Patience is not my forte, but this is worth waiting for... Thanks for the reminder!
Posted 2015-07-07 10:01 AM (#513191 - in reply to #513176) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2010 Posts: 486
Location: Suisun City, Ca
arthurseery - 2015-07-06 3:07 PM
AstroDan - 2015-07-06 11:30 AM Thanks folks. I can't open FB here at work... I'll tell you right now, if that guitar is going to be built, I'm getting one and I want a 12er too.. Love the top, no fret markers, American O craftsmanship... Oh yeah!
I believe that that is an Asian-made guitar... I believe that is a beater Celebrity CC24-FKOA. DW just got Ovation, they haven't made any guitars yet. Sorry Dan.
S'ok OMA
I like that beater though. No burning rush, I can make do with what I have...for now
Posted 2015-07-07 1:05 PM (#513196 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: June 2002 Posts: 6197
Location: Phoenix AZ
Not trying to rain on the parade but I have some questions in my mind ...
We saw photos and videos of the factory cleaned out and empty, wasn't that the case?
I thought I gallery studio had moved into part of the building
In 2010 Fender pretty much shut down Ovation and retooled to build Guild
So how did DW end up with all the tooling and stock, and Cordoba ended up with nothing?
Don't get me wrong, it's all a good turn of events but has me sctratching my head a little. End of the day it will be interesting years from now to see how DW, ESP and Cordoba ended up (hopefully) capitalizing on what they got.
Posted 2015-07-07 1:55 PM (#513197 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2008 Posts: 2683
Location: Hot Springs, S.D.
Ovation tooling is pretty specific to Ovation guitars. The guild tooling may have been sold to Cordoba along with the name but the tooling for Ovation was probably stored against the day that they sold Ovation. Sure, they cleared space in the factory but that doesn't mean the machinery and tooling aren't still in a corner somewhere.
As for the know-how? All it would take would be to rehire one person from each department and they will be able to train new hires.
I'm so psyched! Yesterday I was talking to my friends and when I mentioned the "passing of the torch" I actually got choked up and had to wipe my eyes. Ovation was such a big part of my life from the time my Dad started working there, through the time I worked there, through the time my friends worked there until they closed, and of course the buying and selling of them that I do now at my shop. Not to mention that I have played them all my life. If I still lived in Connecticut I'd be filling out a job application right now.
So the new DW factory will most likely be on a much smaller scale than previous operations. I just hope there will be some new Adamas in the classic design/quality be produced.
Posted 2015-07-07 2:37 PM (#513199 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2008 Posts: 2683
Location: Hot Springs, S.D.
It's been a long, long time since I've been to the New Hartford factory but if it's like the Moosup one was, there were parts of it that were not in use, even when business was booming.
The other thing to consider is, just because these other businesses are in there now, that doesn't mean they will be staying there.
So the new DW factory will most likely be on a much smaller scale than previous operations. I just hope there will be some new Adamas in the classic design/quality be produced.
"Ovation remains a presence in the factory complex and Ovation’s new owners, Drum Workshop, Inc., have loaned several items to the tavern.
An autographed Melissa Etheridge Adamas model guitar, special edition models and old posters and advertisements featuring Eric Clapton, Dave Mason, Glen Campbell and others adorn the walls. Parrott loves the legacy, especially considering that many stars visited and performed at Ovation over the years."
So now you know where the Ovation Factory Guitar Collection is located.
Well, I guess that it is good to be nice to your neighbors...
Especially if your neighbor own a Bar.
Posted 2015-07-07 5:05 PM (#513205 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 7222
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest
"A grand opening, featuring a band fronted by Blue Oyster Cult founding member Joe Bouchard, will take place from 8 p.m. to midnight on Saturday, June 27." How did I not know this...
Posted 2015-07-07 5:50 PM (#513207 - in reply to #513197) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
CanterburyStrings - 2015-07-07 1:55 PM
I'm so psyched! Yesterday I was talking to my friends and when I mentioned the "passing of the torch" I actually got choked up and had to wipe my eyes. Ovation was such a big part of my life from the time my Dad started working there, through the time I worked there, through the time my friends worked there until they closed, and of course the buying and selling of them that I do now at my shop. Not to mention that I have played them all my life. If I still lived in Connecticut I'd be filling out a job application right now.
I was thinking of you Allison, while all the videos were being put up, and everyone was so excited about this! This has to be very emotional for you, and all of the other Folk who put their blood, sweat and tears into these guitars that we all love so much! I am really happy for you and your Dad!
Posted 2015-07-07 10:41 PM (#513217 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 10582
Location: NJ
Well I was at the factory Monday
I'm still in shock
No not all the tooling machines and parts are gone
In fact it looks like a factory and although I am sure some stuff is missing I am more certain than ever they can build guitars there
Will it take awhile sure but it can be a reality
I said to john budny we need a factory tour and we both laughed....
The wheels are in motion I saw it with my own eyes
I was a skeptic but now I can see it coming to fruition
Send me your custom order requests let's give them something to build
Posted 2015-07-07 10:41 PM (#513218 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 10582
Location: NJ
Well I was at the factory Monday
I'm still in shock
No not all the tooling machines and parts are gone
In fact it looks like a factory and although I am sure some stuff is missing I am more certain than ever they can build guitars there
Will it take awhile sure but it can be a reality
I said to john budny we need a factory tour and we both laughed....
The wheels are in motion I saw it with my own eyes
I was a skeptic but now I can see it coming to fruition
Send me your custom order requests let's give them something to build
Posted 2015-07-08 9:35 AM (#513235 - in reply to #513233) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
YES!!!!
Thank You Alpep!!! It is nice to hear a first hand account of how things look, and where they are at!!!
The news just keeps getting better and better!!! Much Excitement!!
Posted 2015-07-08 11:23 AM (#513245 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: September 2003 Posts: 9301
Location: south east Michigan
Al...
Thanks for the encouraging word.
Do you think DW needs to be reminded of how iconic the skunk strip neck is?
This might be a detail that gets lost in the sauce.
Posted 2015-07-08 11:27 AM (#513246 - in reply to #513245) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: May 2008 Posts: 1555
Location: Indiana
Brad Durasa - 2015-07-08 11:23 AM
Do you think DW needs to be reminded of how iconic the skunk strip neck is?
This might be a detail that gets lost in the sauce.
Posted 2015-07-08 1:01 PM (#513249 - in reply to #513246) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Jonmark Stone - 2015-07-08 11:27 AM
Brad Durasa - 2015-07-08 11:23 AM
Do you think DW needs to be reminded of how iconic the skunk strip neck is?
This might be a detail that gets lost in the sauce.
Posted 2015-07-08 3:10 PM (#513250 - in reply to #513243) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: April 2015 Posts: 25
Location: Tennessee
mbedard,
I know a really good divorce attorney, but don't think they are licensed in NH.
But, assuming that isn't an option (I'm sure she was looking out for your best interest), options I can think of are:
1. Buy one = sell one (not an Ovation, of course).
2. Negotiate terms of the penalty, in advance.
3. Let her out of a similar contract, if such exists.
Posted 2015-07-08 4:05 PM (#513253 - in reply to #513243) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: April 2008 Posts: 2985
Location: Sydney, Australia
You need to wait until she wants something of similar cost that (you think) is unneccessary. Like say resurfacing the kitchen bench (AlPep Koa thank you very much) or installing flooring over the current perfectly good floor (still looking for the right guitar there).
Then you pounce: I'll agree to your xxx if you let me get another guitar.
Posted 2015-07-08 4:46 PM (#513254 - in reply to #513253) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
richard.parker - 2015-07-08 4:05 PM
You need to wait until she wants something of similar cost that (you think) is unneccessary. Like say resurfacing the kitchen bench (AlPep Koa thank you very much) or installing flooring over the current perfectly good floor (still looking for the right guitar there).
Then you pounce: I'll agree to your xxx if you let me get another guitar.
When will men learn...
When YOU want something Fun, you have to get HER something FUN!
WANT, NOT need!!!!! Jewelry, something that means something to her, a romantic weekend away together, an evening out dancing - telling her how much she means to your life! Nothing to do with housework, or cleaning!!! UGH!!!!! No toasters, ovens, mops, blenders, flooring, vacuums, weed-wackers, UGH!!!!
Posted 2015-07-08 6:54 PM (#513262 - in reply to #513255) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
LOL!!!!
I have never understood the allure of expensive purses. I own one purse that sits in a drawer. if it doesn't fit in my pockets, it doesn't go with me.... But then I am a bit different...
Posted 2015-07-08 7:18 PM (#513266 - in reply to #513254) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: August 2002 Posts: 8307
Location: Tennessee
naellis58 - 2015-07-08 2:46 PM Nothing to do with housework, or cleaning!!! UGH!!!!! No toasters, ovens, mops, blenders, flooring, vacuums, weed-wackers, UGH!!!!
Posted 2015-07-08 8:43 PM (#513273 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: September 2006 Posts: 10777
Location: Keepin' It Weird in Portland, OR
Okay... Any man or woman who owns more than three* guitars cannot really talk bad about anybody who collects shoes, handbags, clothes, beanie babies, or any other weird thing.
*One Acoustic. One Electric. And a third... 12-string, Parlor, or maybe a bass. After that... we are just collecting.
Posted 2015-07-08 9:07 PM (#513274 - in reply to #513273) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
arthurseery - 2015-07-08 8:43 PM
Okay... Any man or woman who owns more than three* guitars cannot really talk bad about anybody who collects shoes, handbags, clothes, beanie babies, or any other weird thing.
*One Acoustic. One Electric. And a third... 12-string, Parlor, or maybe a bass. After that... we are just collecting.
Posted 2015-07-09 2:22 AM (#513275 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: August 2011 Posts: 887
Location: Always beautiful canyon country of Utah
Just separate your finances and what you do with your money is your business and what SWMNBO does with her money is her business. Mutual respect rules and we are all equal. And love and kindness still trump all!!
Posted 2015-07-09 5:32 AM (#513279 - in reply to #513254) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: April 2008 Posts: 2985
Location: Sydney, Australia
naellis58 - 2015-07-09 9:46 AM
richard.parker - 2015-07-08 4:05 PM
You need to wait until she wants something of similar cost that (you think) is unneccessary. Like say resurfacing the kitchen bench (AlPep Koa thank you very much) or installing flooring over the current perfectly good floor (still looking for the right guitar there).
Then you pounce: I'll agree to your xxx if you let me get another guitar.
When will men learn...
When YOU want something Fun, you have to get HER something FUN!
WANT, NOT need!!!!! Jewelry, something that means something to her, a romantic weekend away together, an evening out dancing - telling her how much she means to your life! Nothing to do with housework, or cleaning!!! UGH!!!!! No toasters, ovens, mops, blenders, flooring, vacuums, weed-wackers, UGH!!!!
No no no! It's just about opportunity. When she wants something expensive and unnessessary, that's your in. Ok dear, as long as I can get something you think is unnessessary
Posted 2015-07-09 11:44 AM (#513285 - in reply to #513254) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2005 Posts: 247
Location: Seacoast NH
naellis58 - 2015-07-08 4:46 PM
richard.parker - 2015-07-08 4:05 PM You need to wait until she wants something of similar cost that (you think) is unneccessary. Like say resurfacing the kitchen bench (AlPep Koa thank you very much) or installing flooring over the current perfectly good floor (still looking for the right guitar there). Then you pounce: I'll agree to your xxx if you let me get another guitar.
When will men learn... When YOU want something Fun, you have to get HER something FUN! WANT, NOT need!!!!! Jewelry, something that means something to her, a romantic weekend away together, an evening out dancing - telling her how much she means to your life! Nothing to do with housework, or cleaning!!! UGH!!!!! No toasters, ovens, mops, blenders, flooring, vacuums, weed-wackers, UGH!!!!
Well I DID just take her out to California for our Anniversary. And I DID arrange for the grandparents to watch the kids for the whole week so we could get away solo. Now if only I can find that damn piece of paper with my signature on it...
Posted 2015-07-09 11:51 AM (#513286 - in reply to #513284) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
I am waiting for the okay to have tops replaced too, I have a 1976 1111-4 that is Identical to my Original Ovation that needs a new top, so once we get the okay on the MotherShip Repairs up and running, we can start sending in our Ren-OVATIONS to them too!
Posted 2015-07-09 11:55 AM (#513287 - in reply to #513285) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
mbedard1 - 2015-07-09 11:44 AM
naellis58 - 2015-07-08 4:46 PM
richard.parker - 2015-07-08 4:05 PM You need to wait until she wants something of similar cost that (you think) is unneccessary. Like say resurfacing the kitchen bench (AlPep Koa thank you very much) or installing flooring over the current perfectly good floor (still looking for the right guitar there). Then you pounce: I'll agree to your xxx if you let me get another guitar.
When will men learn... When YOU want something Fun, you have to get HER something FUN! WANT, NOT need!!!!! Jewelry, something that means something to her, a romantic weekend away together, an evening out dancing - telling her how much she means to your life! Nothing to do with housework, or cleaning!!! UGH!!!!! No toasters, ovens, mops, blenders, flooring, vacuums, weed-wackers, UGH!!!!
Well I DID just take her out to California for our Anniversary. And I DID arrange for the grandparents to watch the kids for the whole week so we could get away solo. Now if only I can find that damn piece of paper with my signature on it...
Good Job Mbedard!!!! That was VERY Sweet of you!!! You are probably already in the running for that new Ovation/Adamas - just ask for it for your Birthday/Father's Day/Christmas combined present!! I hope you get it, you sound like a good hubby!
Posted 2015-07-09 12:49 PM (#513290 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2005 Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho
SWMBO's not really into jewelry, flowers, designer clothes or that sort of waste. She is into stuff "for the house", which she counts as "ours", not hers. I could care less about accent walls, new furniture, etc., but I do like "my" guitar room and still need to finish the garage to my tastes.
My worst attempt at some sort of reciprocity was buying her a Porsche. That didn't work because I drive it far more than she does. A few trips can quickly overcompensate for a lot of guitars, but she tries to fit those into the "for us" category. I usually do enjoy them after being dragged along, but not as much as I enjoy having a nice guitar to play whenever I want. I like owning stuff and don't really buy into this idea of the memories lasting a lifetime. I forget too easily, I guess.
Posted 2015-07-10 10:33 AM (#513322 - in reply to #513290) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2005 Posts: 247
Location: Seacoast NH
Mark in Boise - 2015-07-09 12:49 PM My worst attempt at some sort of reciprocity was buying her a Porsche. That didn't work because I drive it far more than she does.
We rented a 911 on our trip up to Sonoma and Napa. How do you fit the Ovations into the "frunk" on your wife's?
Posted 2015-07-10 1:47 PM (#513331 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2005 Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho
We have a Cayman and I haven't put any Ovations in the frunk. The back is a hatchback and I've had two sets of golf clubs facing front to back in there, but I prefer to lay a guitar in a soft case across the back trunk. I took the LAV Koa that way on top of a full set of golf clubs laid out on the floor of the trunk. I've also hauled various electric Ovations with a little Danelectro mini amp. mIt's definitely not an ideal guitar hauler, but we already have the Honda Pilot for that.
Posted 2015-07-15 8:08 AM (#513475 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2005 Posts: 247
Location: Seacoast NH
If that goes down, count me in. Never been to the Mothership before. Be good to put some names to faces, and would be a good opportunity to drop my Elite off for some much needed spa treatment at the "mini-mother".
Posted 2015-07-16 9:34 AM (#513503 - in reply to #513501) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
My imagination is running wild here - all sorts of nasty things to do with Pigeon Poo, so what did you youngsters, in your infinite wisdom, decide to do with it???? LOL!!!!!
Posted 2015-07-16 4:30 PM (#513514 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: September 2011 Posts: 402
Location: New Hartford CT
Rumor 'round town was it was a pre-1900 industrial-complex-bell-tower-steampunk version of the mile high club...sometimes the bell would ring during working hours for no discernible reason.
Posted 2015-07-16 6:04 PM (#513517 - in reply to #513514) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
George Frey - 2015-07-16 4:30 PM
Rumor 'round town was it was a pre-1900 industrial-complex-bell-tower-steampunk version of the mile high club...sometimes the bell would ring during working hours for no discernible reason.
O-M-G!!!!!! LMAO!!!!!!! That is Hilarious!!!
Kids and Hormones (and no, I did not say 'Ho-Moans')
You Guys are Terrible! LOL!!!!!
When it rang, did you all look around to see who was missing from the lines???
There are so many one liners that are coming to mind, but I don't want to be put on vacation... LOL!!!!
Posted 2015-07-16 11:42 PM (#513530 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: August 2003 Posts: 4619
Location: SoCal
Yep, but as Ovation never listed Serge Lara as an endorser, not sure if he ever visited the factory. Several us have tried very hard to get the Ovation and Adamas guitars back into his hands and on his CD covers.
Posted 2015-07-17 9:29 AM (#513537 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2002 Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch
No, it was just guys who went up there for an afternoon smoke break, and this was well before the days of being politically correct. If anyone tried any of that they would have experienced flight.
Posted 2015-07-18 10:26 AM (#513568 - in reply to #513564) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
LOL!!!! There should always be some perks to the job, eh?
From everything I have heard, you were very well loved as a Person, and Boss, Beal!
For so many to speak so highly, is a great compliment to your style of dealing with people!
Posted 2015-07-21 8:51 AM (#513633 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: September 2003 Posts: 9301
Location: south east Michigan
I hesitate to suggest this. My (our?) part is to promote, buy & enjoy Ovations... not produce & market them.
.
However.... Wouldn't this be a perfect time to put some distance between the imports and homegrown models? How many times have we heard people say they won't buy an Ovation (USA) because of the experience they've have with an Ovation (aka: Celebrity)? I'm not saying bring back the Celebrity name, just let the USA models be the vastly different experience that they are.
Posted 2015-07-21 10:20 AM (#513644 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2006 Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains
With the custom shop potentially coming back online in the future, it provides an opportunity to have your dream guitar built to your exact specifications. Sometimes the end product is exactly what you imagined, sometimes not, but it can also be way beyond your expectations. My custom 1187 SSB hit my button perfectly. Everybody should have a one-off custom built once in their lifetime, if there is any way to arrange it.
Posted 2015-07-21 12:38 PM (#513645 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: July 2010 Posts: 83
Location: Urbana, IL
I've done a lot of custom electrics in my life but never a custom acoustic so I'm overjoyed to know that the custom shop will be open for business again.
Posted 2015-07-21 4:49 PM (#513651 - in reply to #513650) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
No Dave, you were just lucky enough to get Your Perfect One already! We just have to wait!
Actually, ALL of the Ovations/Adamas that I have are Perfect, and I Love each and every one! I have always just wanted to design my own, the asthetics, it is hard to perfect the guitar, or sound, that is Ovation!
Posted 2015-07-22 12:39 AM (#513656 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: April 2004 Posts: 13303
Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066
You guys do realize that your custom dream guitar is gonna be in the 3-5K range and a wait of many months?
Just sayin..... It's great to dream but DW can't live on dreams and for all the talk, how many here will actually pony up? Just my 2 cents
Posted 2015-07-22 12:47 AM (#513657 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: August 2011 Posts: 887
Location: Always beautiful canyon country of Utah
"How many here will actually pony up?" Great question. Many of those who can't or won't pony up will nevertheless not hesitate to horse around forever!!
Posted 2015-07-22 1:40 AM (#513659 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: September 2006 Posts: 10777
Location: Keepin' It Weird in Portland, OR
Dave, there are OFC members who actually buy New Ovations and Adamii.
Some OFCer's order Custom guitars.
I just ain't one of them... some of us cruise eBay and Pawn Shops,
A Brand Spankin' New Ovation is Nice...
But can it compare with finding a near-new Lusty Red T for $350?
Or being surprised by a Shop owner who sells you a 6774 Folklore for $249?
Posted 2015-07-22 2:33 AM (#513660 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2004 Posts: 566
Location: Denmark
If DW do well then in a few years they might be 25 employees making something like 25 US made Os and As each working day in the medium price range and up. So if they can hardly live on custom orders from OFC members alone. But allowing people to have wishes and visions is the necessary foundation for such a project.
Posted 2015-07-22 7:40 AM (#513664 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2005 Posts: 247
Location: Seacoast NH
I'm another one that probably won't be purchasing any new $3k-5k custom guitars unless I experience a great change in fortune. I think its impractical for DW to expect the brand to survive on any business model that relies on custom orders.
My hope is that DW can use their market clout and artist network to reinvigorate the brand. Get these new Os and As in the hands of musicians, let them be seen at shows, and demonstrate how great they sound. Leverage industry editorial relationships to get people writing and commenting on the rebirth of an American brand. Highlight what these guitars give to users rather than just listing off features. My two cents is that Ovation's biggest strengths are the quality, craftsmanship, longevity, playability, and plugged-in performance (my Elite and Millennium will never touch my old Gibson as a pure acoustic, but that Adamas sounds way better than my buddy's $4k Taylor through the PA).
I wonder, however, how they can keep costs down while still delivering a great product. We know Fender's approach was to offshore everything but the high end stuff, so most people were only exposed to the imports. I wonder how G&L is able to do this so effectively without offshore manufacturing. All USA made, Fender Custom Shop quality and features at 1/2 the price. I picked up an ASAT Z3 semi-hollow a while back brand new from a G&L dealer for $1400. It outplays anything I've ever come across from the high end Fenders, which is why they have such a strong base of loyal fans...
Hopefully they can figure out a way to keep the quality, performance, and innovation without driving up the cost while simultaneously establishing a larger market presence.
Posted 2015-07-22 8:57 AM (#513667 - in reply to #513658) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: April 2004 Posts: 13303
Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066
Matt_B - 2015-07-22 12:20 AM Tell us stephent28, what are you "just sayin'"? Do tell.....Give us a few cents.
i'm just sayin a lot of people don't reach for their wallets when the time comes.
everybody talks about custom guitars but on numerous occasions when Al has walked the plank ordering a batch of custom guitars that members wanted and said they would buy went silent and left him holding the bag.
Brad (Slipkid) makes a valid point and his comment gets virtually ignored.
i'm guessing you want my 2 cents but like most here are only willing to pay 1/2 a cent.
Posted 2015-07-22 9:33 AM (#513669 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2005 Posts: 247
Location: Seacoast NH
For what it's worth, my first Ovation is a Elite 6768 deep bowl, bought it new in 93 or 94 I think. That guitar has changed many a mind about Ovations among my friends. Still sounds and plays great. Bare bones and no frills on that thing, but either production or custom, quality speaks for itself. If I were to look into a new one, it would probably be another production model vs a custom job due to a combination of past satisfaction with production models and financial limitations.
Posted 2015-07-22 9:50 AM (#513670 - in reply to #513667) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: July 2010 Posts: 83
Location: Urbana, IL
stephent28 - 2015-07-22 8:57 AM
Matt_B - 2015-07-22 12:20 AM Tell us stephent28, what are you "just sayin'"? Do tell.....Give us a few cents.
i'm just sayin a lot of people don't reach for their wallets when the time comes.
everybody talks about custom guitars but on numerous occasions when Al has walked the plank ordering a batch of custom guitars that members wanted and said they would buy went silent and left him holding the bag.
Brad (Slipkid) makes a valid point and his comment gets virtually ignored.
i'm guessing you want my 2 cents but like most here are only willing to pay 1/2 a cent.
is that clear enough for you?
Please excuse but you seem a bit irritated/angry about this whole custom Ovation thing and I don't know the history of custom order here nor why a fraction of it seems to be directed at me, other than the fact that I want to get a custom Adamas.
Regarding custom batches of guitars are you saying that Al ordered them and people didn't buy them? If so I would say that stinks but I would expect folks to put down some kind of substantial deposit before the order is placed.
I sold guitars for 12 year and ordered quite a few custom guitars for folks over the years so I know how some customers react to them, terms of price and wait time. Ordering a custom instruments is a lot different than buying one off the rack. I've also bought custom guitars for myself and in some instances I've waited up to 2 years to get them.
As for my "dream guitar" I know it will cost "a lot" (probably in the $4-$5K range) but I have no idea about the wait times yet. I expect it will take a little bit of time (3-6 months, maybe more) to get but I don't expect to have a better time frame until the order can be placed.
I'm not "reaching for my wallet" until I know exactly what I want. Even then I'm not placing the order until I obviously know what it will cost and approximately how long it will take.
Posted 2015-07-22 10:26 AM (#513671 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6994
Location: Jet City
I know exactly what I want... so does Al. Just waiting on DW now.
Unless there's something new and exciting, I have no need for a 'production' Ovation. I've already bought the newest Custom Legend (Al DiMeola), Custom Elite LX, a nylon LX, and even an Adamas 2, most of which were bought new from local stores and Lost Art Vintage.
My wallet's open. I have guitars on the ready to liquidate if needed.
Posted 2015-07-22 10:51 AM (#513673 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2005 Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho
I'm not likely to be a custom customer for a couple reasons. One is that I don't use the 17 or whatever Ovations that I have, but their also pretty much all I want. I was lucky enough to get an OFC 1 and I can't think of anything more in a guitar that I want. I was kind of a newcomer to the process when that happened. I'm more of a want what I see type. I wasn't interested in the OFC 2. There was a lot of interest in the LAV Koa based on one of the prototypes for the 2006 Collector that people saw at a factory tour. Al had 12 of those built of the 12 fretters and then had more of them in the 14 fret version that didn't sell. I got a 12 fret version. I figured the 2010 2078 Limited Edition was the last limited edition guitar that Ovation would make, so I bought it, even though I'd have preferred a deep bowl sunburst with a center hole. Then they put out 50 of those the next year and I just couldn't pull the trigger again.
Probably the biggest reason I am not likely to be a customer is I want to retire soon and the money will have to go for needs instead of wants. It's nice to dream, but I dream about sitting by the lake, drinking beer and playing the guitars I have.
Posted 2015-07-22 10:58 AM (#513674 - in reply to #513670) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
I had heard that Al got stuck with quite a few Customs when he placed the Orders for OFC Customs, and that is just plain Wrong...
I am going for a "One Of", that will fullfill my Dream (like The Professor said). I have been talking to John B for quite a while about it, and he even approved the tone wood before I bought it, and told me how to have it cut so that it would be right for them to use for it. I have ordered my custom inlays, and will order the Tuners that I want (once I decide on which ones). I want to be part of this Custom, I want to see my vision become a reality. And I have already started selling model horses, and getting the money together. If they aren't able to do them for a couple of years, that just gives me more time to get the money together and cement my vision.
I understand the Custom Wait - with Model Horses, when you get a commission with the Best Artists in the Hobby, you can expect to wait 1-3 YEARS for that horse. But when you get it, it is beyond your expectations, and always worth the wait. It sounds stupid to wait that long, but when you are going for the Best, you either wait, or settle for less from someone else. I don't settle when it is a Custom. And 6 to 8 months is nothing in comparison to wait for a dream to come true!
And I understand that the Custom Shop will not keep Ovation afloat - but it is a very nice sideline that they can offer to their Customers, that will bring in good money, and make some life long Loyal Customers! DW already offers a Custom Shop for their Drums, and come out with some outstanding and unique pieces! And when someone see's those Special Sets, they just might save up for a special set of their own, once they know what DW is capable of. Or see what they are capable of doing, and buy a regular line set from them! So no, Custom Orders won't keep them in business, but they are a really nice sideline that sets them apart from the regular manufacturers.
As to the Regular Runs - you can bet your last nickel if I see something I want, I'll go after it!! The Custom is just something that if they offer them, I am not going to miss out on my chance for my *Dream Come True Ovation*, but I will still be getting their Regular Pieces if it is something I like!
DW knows their Stuff - they have a proven track record, and look at the excitement they generated just on announcing that Ovations would be made in America again! These guys have the people in place to do what needs to be done, and done right! It is their job to market, build and sell, I think they have that well in hand! I have no doubt whatsoever, that they will do Ovation/Adamas proud! And Customs are just going to be one aspect of that makeover, but a popular and prosperous one!
Posted 2015-07-22 12:49 PM (#513676 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2005 Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho
The OFCs and LAV Koas weren't quite the same as a custom order. They were limited editions of 12 or so guitars. I didn't agree to buy either of mine until they were actually built or being built. I think Al sold most of them right away, except for the 14 fret LAV Koa.
The build up to the first OFC took a couple of years on this board and is worth a perusal in the archives.
AstroDan, the limited edition they made in 2010 may be what you are looking for. It was an Elite with inlaid epis and walnut binding and fretboard, like the 1537, except it has a cutaway, contour bowl and Adirondack Spruce top. Al had one for quite a while at a very reasonable price. Again, if you look at the archives, some of the OFCers suggested it was a modern 1537.
Posted 2015-07-22 1:34 PM (#513677 - in reply to #513676) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Mark in Boise - 2015-07-22 12:49 PM
The OFCs and LAV Koas weren't quite the same as a custom order. They were limited editions of 12 or so guitars. I didn't agree to buy either of mine until they were actually built or being built. I think Al sold most of them right away, except for the 14 fret LAV Koa.
The build up to the first OFC took a couple of years on this board and is worth a perusal in the archives.
Thank You for that clarification, Mark! I will go spend some time out in the archives, it would be an interesting read on how the specs for the LE came about, and how they narrowed all the different suggestions down to one guitar!
Posted 2015-07-22 2:34 PM (#513678 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2005 Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho
Al included a lot of extra goodies with the original OFC, like a carbon fiber case, case cover and a gig bag full of cool stuff. It qualifies as my dream guitar, but I would never have dreamed it up myself. That was in 2007, shortly after Ovation did the Ute, #47 RI, and a couple other cool reissues and were pushing the Adamas Custom Shop. The development of the #47 RI in particular made the OFC guitar possible. I have an ad somewhere for the Adamas Custom Shop, with some descriptions of the types of customizing you could do. For someone like me who lacked imagination, it gave me possible recipes. Someone with imagination could come up with most any possibility. They had also come out with the contour bowl and LX neck. Ovation was really coming up with some great ideas then at the same time they were producing reissues of the old ideas.
Posted 2015-07-22 3:07 PM (#513679 - in reply to #513678) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
It is interesting that you say that Mark! That some really cool guitars came out of the ReIssues!
That is basically my Dream Guitar, a ReIssue of a '76-1119 Custom Legend, but with Claro Walnut Top, (Dang you Patch!!!) with custom pretties and custom fretboard symbols that mean something to me. I don't even want it Electric - Acoustic Only!
I know that there are allot fancier guitars, and ones with better numbers, but to me, the 1976 Balladeer, Custom Balladeer and Custom Legend are what "Ovation" will always sound like to me. So that is what I want re-created, or re-issued. Might be stupid, but it is my 'Dream Ovation', and I went through over 2000 pieces of Claro Walnut before the right one scalded my eyes! Everything else from that fell into place.
Another nice thing about having a Custom Shop, is that someone, is going to request something unique that may just change the entire guitar! People have some really wild ideas that turn into tiny computer watches, micro-thing-a-ma-bobs, and all sort of neat stuff! (That is the extent of my Tech-Talk!) Having a Custom Shop lets DW have that knowledge/idea first, and if it can be used or incorporated into something new or existing, it is a win-win!!! Look how Linda McCartney's gift for Paul got us the Custom Legend!
Posted 2015-07-22 3:50 PM (#513680 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2002 Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch
You don't wNt a walnut top, it's a panelmaster and straight acoustic too? No, that will be real pretty but is just a plywood top guitar. The ply kinda works on an elite configuration with pickup. Sorry, you don't want to hear that, but it's the truth.
Posted 2015-07-22 3:56 PM (#513681 - in reply to #513680) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
On the contrary, I welcome all input!!! Thank you for taking the time to share your experience! Friends tell you the truth, I appreciate that if nicely done, and that was nicely put!
What does "panel master" mean??? These are bookend pieces of solid Claro Walnut, cut from a thicker piece of the wood.
Posted 2015-07-22 4:03 PM (#513682 - in reply to #513681) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2009 Posts: 4535
Location: Flahdaw
Panel master just means a non solid top, ala plywood. Many "exotic wood" tops are plywood, especially the Ovation Collector's Series. I think the Koa's were solid tho???
Posted 2015-07-22 4:40 PM (#513684 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2002 Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch
usually three equal layers, the top being figured the other two whatever although some have figured top and bottom and spoo in the middle. Panel master was a not so kind term we insiders used for the collectors series that all had these exotic tops, Panelmaster, like you go buy this spoo at Home depot. its about the time I lost interest i the series.
Posted 2015-07-22 5:11 PM (#513687 - in reply to #513684) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Thank You Beal!
Okay, now this wood was cross cut to 1/4" thick (both panels) and was thick enough to give me 2 matching sets of the bookmatch sets (4 pieces total), so I am thinking that this will be solid top? Is that correct?
John B told me how thick, and how to have it cut, and said that they would sand it down to the correct thickness for the top (like they do their Sitka and other tops) I ended up with enough for 2 Guitars tops from the piece I bought that was almost an inch thick. So would that be a better front, if they are solid Walnut for the top???
Posted 2015-07-22 6:29 PM (#513688 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2008 Posts: 2683
Location: Hot Springs, S.D.
Pardon me for jumping in here, but walnut is a dense and heavy wood. That means it wouldn't vibrate much. That is why spruce and cedar make great sounding guitars - they are light. Heavy woods (like bubinga for example) make pretty guitars, but if you DON'T do a laminate and go with solid wood, you'll get very little tone and volume. Maybe save the walnut for another purpose and go with spruce?
Posted 2015-07-22 7:04 PM (#513689 - in reply to #513688) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Thank You Allison!!! I am glad that you explained that to me!
I might have to re-think what I am wishing for! I want pretty, but pretty sounding too!!! (Actually more than *pretty sounding*, it has to be an "Ovation"!) Thank you Allison!! This is the Honesty I appreciate from friends!
Posted 2015-07-22 9:33 PM (#513695 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: July 2005 Posts: 1609
Location: Colorado
Al knows what I asked for a quote on...frankly one iteration of it could be a great players guitar....guessing the cost on the simpler model will not approach what some are saying....but rather the cost of a great quality solid performer's guitar..
Posted 2015-07-22 10:24 PM (#513696 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2002 Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch
That's a beautiful piece of wood. I'd have a guitar made from it. But a dreadnought. That would be a beautiful back. One of the nicest guitars I ever let go was a walnut back and sides sinker redwood 12 fret dread Santa Cruz. For back and sides walnut works. Back needs to be around .100 and the sides around .080. The top is .130 to .100
Posted 2015-07-22 10:46 PM (#513697 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: March 2005 Posts: 12755
Location: Boise, Idaho
I had a Bubinga 99 Collector. I initially thought it didn't sound as good as the Celebrity Deluxe I traded for it. Figured it was the strings, but no. Pretty guitar, but it just always sounded small. Sold it to someone else who also listened with his eyes.
I''ve never been too keen on the Koa. I didn't warm up to it because it doesn't really warm up, like a spruce or cedar. A hard wood always has a brighter, harder sound than a soft wood. It's not a bad thing, just different. An Adamas doesn't sound like a 1537 either, even though the 1537 was the original wood topped Adamas. I love the sound of both of those. Then there's the sound of the K1111 RI. Beautiful. And the 97 Collector is a fantastic guitar. I love the sound that comes out of that little parlor. I guess I know why I can't figure out my dream guitar. I like the variety.
Posted 2015-07-22 11:46 PM (#513699 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: January 2006 Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains
That piece of walnut posted by Nancy would look terrific on a VXT or maybe a chambered EA Viper where top acoustics don't mean as much. I ordered Koa for my custom VXT and flame maple for my custom EA Viper 12, but I would consider something in that gorgeous walnut, just not an acoustic.
Posted 2015-07-23 9:22 AM (#513709 - in reply to #513090) Subject: RE: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: May 2006 Posts: 4226
Location: Steeler Nation, Hudson Valley Contingent
Hi Nancy,
Sorry I got you into such a convoluted discussion. I'm sure it was partly based on my walnut Pacemaker that Dan linked to. Everything people have been saying about walnut, both positive and negative, is true. It IS dense and heavy and can certainly mute the volume and tone when used as a top.
I picked my piece in person from the stash of a local luthier who uses it mostly as backs for archtop guitars. (MAN would I love to be able to afford one of those! They are gorgeous!) With his assistance, I worked our way through one set after another. I was looking at the figuring of course, but just as important to me was the tap tone of each set. And most of them sounded...well...dense and heavy, with a decided kind of "THUNK" when tapped. But wood is astoundingly variable and occasionally a set would have a pleasant kind of "DING" sound to it. We set these to the side to compare them later.
We never got around to comparing them though. Eventually, we tapped a set that had a crystal clear, very obvious "RING" tap tone that sustained for quite a bit. It was night-and-day different from every set up to that point in a very good way! The luthier said if we had tapped that one first we would have stopped right then. It really was a remarkable difference from every other set we had picked up. Add to that that the figuring was gorgeous, and it only took a moment to decide that set was going to New Hartford.
However, it is worth mentioning that even that set sounds nothing like spruce, which is what most people are used to. My guitar is not loud for a 12-string. My 80's Custom Balladeer 12'er not only sounds different (more robust I would say), but is noticeably louder no doubt. The walnut's tone is lovely, very chime-like, and works perfectly well acoustically for small groups and solo playing at home, but for playing out (even in my small church choir for example), amplification is definitley necessary.
One last thing, because I knew how stiff walnut would be and how much more tension would be required to get that top vibrating, I only ever considered using it as a top for a twelve-string guitar; hoping that the extra strings would give it that much more oomph! Personally, I don't think I would use it for a 6-string, but you never know if you find the right piece of wood.
In the end, it obviously worked out as well as it possibly could for me. The point of all of this is that you have to be very careful when picking non-traditional woods for a top. Spruce has been the go-to top for generations for a reason. And Cedar has a similar reputation.
If you haven't had a pro check the tone of that wood, move ahead cautiously. Maybe even find a local luthier with a good rep and mine him for advice. And I might suggest, if the walnut does not work out, you might consider a nice piece of sinker redwood. Several members here have sourced some excellent tops from a website whose name currently escapes me, including the piece that now tops my FD-14-X. None of us have been disappointed, with the sound or the looks!
Posted 2015-07-23 9:36 AM (#513712 - in reply to #513090) Subject: Re: Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
Joined: December 2003 Posts: 848
Location: Canada
Back to the original purpose of the thread, I found this encouraging piece posted on the AGF:
(source: The Music Trades Online)
Ovation To Restart U.S. Production
DRUM WORKSHOP has signaled its commitment to the Ovation brand with a decision to restart U.S. production of the distinctive Roundback guitar. Machinery, finishing equipment, and assembly lines are currently being reactivated at the New Hartford, Connecticut plant, the home of Ovation production for almost four decades. Shipments of guitars are set to resume later in the year. Drum Workshop CEO Chris Lombardi, who acquired Ovation along with Gibraltar Hardware, LP, and Toca Percussion, and distribution rights for Gretsch drums from Fender Musical Instruments last January, said, "A U.S. production site is critical for maintaining the integrity of the Ovation brand, and it contributes to the sale of the imported Ovation product as well."
Closed last year, the Ovation guitar plant in New Hartford, CT is gearing up to resume production.
Ovation's New Hartford plant was shuttered in April 2014, after Fender management made a strategic decision to focus resources on Fender-branded products and divest its KMC Music subsidiary and other non-core brands. When Drum Workshop completed the acquisition on the eve of the 2015 NAMM show, Lombardi confessed that he was unsure of how exactly to proceed with the Ovation line. "With our experience in the percussion market, we had definite plans for Gretsch, Gibraltar, Toca, and all the other KMC percussion brands. But guitars were new for us." As he visited customers around the world, a strategy began to take shape.
From a marketing standpoint, there was unquestionably a strong global demand for U.S.-made Ovation guitars. Distributors in Europe and Japan were particularly interested in seeing production restored and promised large orders. Questions about the viability of reopening the factory were quickly resolved when Lombardi made his first visit to New Hartford. He had expected to find the Ovation tooling and production equipment packed up in railroad cars, but was startled to see it carefully set up on the factory floor. A core team of four dedicated Ovation staffers had kept the equipment in place in hopes that someone would restart production. In addition, other factory staff had signaled their interest in returning to work. Lombardi explains, "With an experienced staff, the equipment in place, and a strong order book, the decision was easy. Getting production back was just a question of setting up the dust collection system, hooking up electricity, and renegotiating the lease."
Bill Xavier, the newly hired Ovation product manager, says that the first production models will most likely be a continuation of the long-running "Collectors Series" limited editions, designed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roundback. "We're planning some very special products that will appeal to both the committed Ovation fan and any other player who appreciates a fine instrument."
Happy 4th of July from Ovation !!!!
I want to SEE that!!!! 
