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Location: Chicago | Well, my BIG 5-0 is approaching. "SWIMBO" as she is known has heard that I am thinking of going Adamas. I have looked at the sites and galleries and am at a loss. I can't affored a UTE, OK. Can anyone advise what other ADAMAS might be the best match for my style? Thanks! (http://guitarsoffire.com/HOME/media/guitar1.mp3) |
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Location: NJ | Call Al. |
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Location: Scotland | 1581, either the reissue or an older original. I adopted a single epaulette 1581 from Dave about a year ago, and it's one of my favourite guitars. |
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Location: Chicago | For advice? For inventory? :) Need a number, thanks. |
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Location: Chicago | Thanks PT. I see something similar on fleabay here
http://cgi.ebay.com/Adamas-1597-Ovation-SMT-Natural-Graphite-w-Hard... |
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Location: big island | no...the 1597 is nothing like the 1581
stephent28 has a mint 1581 re-issue for sale. you should grab it. i wish i could! |
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Location: NJ | You'll do better with a textured top . . . |
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Location: south east Michigan | Here is a link.. AL
Textured Top
Textured Top
Textured Top
Textured Top
Pay more if you have to for a...
Textured Top |
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Location: closely held secret | Someone should mention that the 1597 is not a textured top. You should get a textured top. |
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| You probably don't want one of those smooth ones. |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | Al has some of the textured top export Adamas which are friggin' great guitars. I own one. definately talk to Al about one of these. The price is very reasonable, less than U681 and 1581 and all that stuff. And they sound amazing.
Dave |
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Location: NJ | WhatWitkoSays. |
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Location: Boise, Idaho | And there's a blue one on ebay, or at least Al had one on there last time I looked. It had a finish flaw and no electronics, but the price was cheap. Don't think you could get into a new textured top Adamas for any less. For your 50th, you should get 2. I got a membership in AARP for my 50th. |
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Location: NJ | I didn't . . . |
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Location: Chicago | Wow. Fanatastic (homework to do). So "textured" and not the newer "woven" top? Also, I'd kinda like a cutaway this time (as a false teeth rest)... |
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Location: closely held secret | 1581. |
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Location: Tychy, Poland | dobro: from what i hear your music is inspired by gypsy music, so i think you should check Gypsy guitars too.
I think Gitane with D-shape soundhole would fit You well.
I don't want to take anything from any Adamas, but i think for Your playing there are better choices.
http://pl.youtube.com/watch?v=IR9dzO6mcB4
http://pl.youtube.com/watch?v=J_pfmrj0rxc |
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Location: Chicago | I see alot of Adamas whose numbers start with "w" or "W": Is one of these on Al's site a 1581? |
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Location: Chicago | Thanks LBJ (great clips WOW). I think you make a good point. My search for Adamas comes from disappointment wtih the Al DiMeola ADII 1769. My '74 Legend is getting old.... I do love the "Ovation Sound" which for me is defined by McLaughlin's "My Goal's Beyond": So the idea is a complex, somewhat "hard" chordal sound that resolves dissonance well (do you know what I mean? A woody Martin does not "resolve" a chord like the one on Unplugged Ovation on my site: BF#BD#CF)
As for Gypsy (Selmer...) is there a favorite on your list? |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | U is Unidirectional carbon top, like the SMT's and 1597. The U681 is this top with a textured paint.
W is Woven carbon top, like the w597. The W681 14 fret guitars is this top with a partial textured paint. The W681 12 fret guitars is this top with a full textured paint. The Adamas I, II and reissues is this top with a full textured paint.
NWT is the New Woven Top, like the 2080 Cateye. The 1680 is this top with a full textured paint. |
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Location: Tychy, Poland | personally i've played Gitane D-500 which was for sale in Poland for about $500 used in mint-mint condition. Guitar had really fast neck (but i think neck on Your Legend will be more comfortable while playing chords) and it sounded very good for it's price. I'm not sure, but i think Joscho Stephan uses the same D-500 on his videoclips.
i think You won't have problems with finding some store with gypsy guitars in Chicago. And i think if You'll have luck You'll be able to buy Gitane and Ovation - maybe used elite? |
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Location: Chicago | Thanks Dave and Mark and Cliff and all...
OK so some recommend the 1581 with the "unidirectional carbon top" other emphaticall say "textured top'. Is there a way to describe the difference in sound between the 1581 and the textured-top models?
LBJ: the one think I DON'T like about the Gitane is its "tight" sound. I like a bit more open a bit spacier, dark.... |
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Location: closely held secret | No, the 1581 is a woven top. We call it 'textured' because it's not a smooth glossy top like the uni's (1597).
We don't know why it sounds better, it just does. One theory is that the texture gives it more surface area. Or mojo. Your choice. |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | My post above ius all f'ed up and I can't edit. Reissues and original adamas are unidirection. |
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Location: NJ | ". . Is there a way to describe the difference in sound between the 1581 and the textured-top models? . .'
The textured-top models are more "RESPONSIVE".
TrustMe on this.
Y'know . . . THIS is why I keep harping, Harping, HARPing t'have people COME OUT to the Tours when they're offered to us!!! . . .
ALL of your "questions" are "answered" (by YOU, I might add) by simply walking over and picking up a guitar . . .
oy.
. . . and (again)TrustMe, I'm NOT "picking" on anyone, but those who've (finally) "Been" can Attest, it IS in fact the ULTIMATE way t'get "Edumacated" . . .
other'n THAT, y'just gotta "Trust" those that "have" . . . |
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Location: Chicago | I get it: the 1581-5 reissue is "unidirectional" AND also "textured"; I don't think I've seen any of the original 1581s (30 years ago....)
This is it:
http://www.adamasguitars.com/?fa=detail&mid=1864&sid=511
FACTORY TOUR: yep, gotta do it, life permitting. 228? |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | The textured top adamas are just plain tops painted with a textured paint. The 1581 IS a textured top.
The unique one is the 14 fret W681 which is only painted (textured) around the outer edge and left bare in the center.
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Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | I have a really nice 1681 from early 80's and a 1581 reissue available. The 1681 is definitely the less expensive of the two.
or you could call Al (specially if ya prefer new). |
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Location: Chicago | So I need to get specific and inquire about getting a 30th anniversary 1581-5 (single cutaway). Does that sound like a plan? I like the black the most. Acutally I like the Adamas on your Ovation Gallery that has NO epaulettes, just black; the one that gets all the questions.... |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | The 1581-5 reissue is a very nice guitar. You might be able to find a used origial 1581-5. There was one on ebay about a week ago.
Yeah, the Stealth Adamas. I could have sold that guitar about another 20 times since I got rid of it.
Dave |
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Location: Chicago | So Stephen maybe we should talk off-forum. I'm very interested in the used 1581 reissue (black, right?). I mean, if it's OK here let's do it here, but otherwise I'm at gdobrov@luc.edu Pics? |
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Location: Simpsonville, SC | "The Art of the Deal". Damn, this is fun. I have been to a Jam and a get together and within weeks of each bought an Adamas. Tough to go wrong. Hope the wallet holds out after the next Jam.
Good Luck Dobro! |
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Location: Chicago | Wait. Money? Wallet? Why did nobody warn me??!!!! |
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Location: Blue Ridge Mountains | I think the questions that need to be initially answered need to be answered by you: how much are you prepared to spend and how much patience co you have? I other words is it essential to get your new or used guitar now or can you wait to find what you want. Some great bargains can be found on eBay and this is the time of the year when the best will be offered in time for the holidays. Adamas I's and II's have been popping up and are going for cheap near bargain prices. Another thing to consider is would be what the guitar you buy will be worth down the road. Why not make an investment as well as a purchase and buy a classic in great condition that has a potential to appreciate in value and has the best sound! You simply cannot go wrong with an Adamas I or II. |
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Location: Blue Ridge Mountains | And yes, both the I and II have textured tops (among other things). |
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Location: 6 String Ranch | Yes, textured tops. |
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Location: Parrish, FL | Then there is this one on the 'Bay.
Adamas 1581
Blues |
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Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | Interesting one on the bay...a mid bowl and not the 2 knob electronics (which to me sound a ton better than the optimas) + modified with the earvana tuning system. |
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Location: SE Michigan | I just picked up a used 1581 and I am quite pleased with it. Just finished a practice session and it's quite a nice sounding and powerful guitar. The 1597 that you mentioned earlier from Ebay seems way overpriced. For that kind of money you should be able to find something really splendid. Good luck. |
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Location: Chicago | BTW are there any examples of the 1581 (original or reissue) on record to check out? Or your guys' MP3s? |
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Location: enid, ok | Style? Sheee, I don need no steenkin' style! |
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Location: CT | You only turn 50 once.
1687. |
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Location: NJ | I thinks he wants a cutaway . . . |
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Location: south east Michigan | Reckless Speculation...
The textured top holds the sound to the top just long enough for it to be projected out. With the smooth top the sound slips off and falls on the floor before it has a chance to go anywhere else.
But seriously.. Brian & I talked last night about how the textured top looks, feels and acts more like speaker cone material than a piece of wood. |
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Location: Chicago | Well, boys, looks like I'm gonna have a baby. Sheeeeit! Since all the names are taken I'm gonna call it 1581-5. Someone tried to play it out in Denver once, they say. It bucked its rider and ran away. Nasty story. I'm ready! Texture THAT. |
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Location: Boise, Idaho | Happy Birthday. You will use it well. |
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Location: south east Michigan | nice
Nothin' gets the job done better than an excessive amout of peer pressure.
I hope your arm wasn't hurt with all the twisting we did here. |
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Location: Chicago | You guys were actually very helpful. I could have wandered around fleabay for years before I figured out what was what. There is NO place to test-drive Adamas(es) across the board here, even in Chicago. I am confident that the 1581 will do a good job representing the whole line. I have even heard it whispered in the streets that SOME like it better that the UTE!! Anyway, my old Legend really should not have to endure the abuse of my live "hand percussion" thing and regular gigging..... I'll be sure to report on the results! |
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Location: big island | good move, dobro. i believe you will be very pleased. you will have to change your moniker though cuz 1581's cannot be plinked with. |
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Location: Chicago | aww, but "I thunk therefore I plunk" loses its Cartesian ring. The Zen of "O", man! |
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| Have an Adamas 1 I am thinking of parting with. You'll never want for another once you get your hands on one. Email me. Fair Price, excellent condition and the sound is as good as they come. I'll take a few shots later tonight.
Randy |
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| Sorry got a bunch of requests for the model number. Time had elapsed to edit. Figured I better post this to save the confusion.
1687-7
Randy |
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Location: Simpsonville, SC | Originally posted by dobro:
I have even heard it whispered in the streets that SOME like it better that the UTE!! Blasphemer!
:eek:
Hope you enjoy the new Adamas! Should be like butta in your hands. |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | Originally posted by dobro:
I have even heard it whispered in the streets that SOME like it better that the UTE!! That's absolutely true. 12 fret non-cutaways are a niche guitar that some people just don't like. To each their own.
Dave |
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Location: Simpsonville, SC | Dave, I only use three, maybe four frets. Why do I need more?! :D ;) |
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Location: Nashville TN. | ditto call AL
he good to deal with |
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Location: Japan | Originally posted by Tupperware:
To each their own.
Dave This really sums up my feelings about all Adamas models and preferences and apparently I'm one of the few who doesn't feel the SMT and CVT smooth tops are junk in the world of Adamas.
Definitely my favorites do happen to be my textured tops but I played my SMT here in Tokyo last night and loved what it did for me in my 3 hours onstage.
Will be using it again on Tuesday and a couple more times next month before leaving it a friends house and not seeing it again until next year.
Anyway I wish there were less general condemnation of the smooth tops and more of an atmosphere of acceptance of the fact that they still remain Adamas guitars.
One final note is that anyone coming to Japan should take the time to look around because I have seen two incredibly rare Adamas (yes, both textured) in the last couple days.
One of them is a Teal II with darker than normal epaulets and the other has Charlies signature inside with a date of either Jan '76 or '78 and is listed as a '77!
It's got a brownish finish with no sparkles. |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | Originally posted by Tupperware:
To each their own. I was only referring to 12 fret vs. 14 fret.
Dave |
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Location: Texas | This Adamas II slothead doesn't sound bad :D
http://pl.youtube.com/watch?v=uGptJu1KZus |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | That's an outstanding guitar... |
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Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | Ignorance here....when did they make an Adamas II slothead?
and isn't that one of our OFC buddies from Jerome's neck of the world? |
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Location: SoCal | It was a custom job. Read about it here ---
http://www.ovationgallery.com/ |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | That's Adamasplayer (Pascal) who is a good friend of Jerome and was kind enough to invite me to his home outside Paris. He is a VERY good player. The Adamas II Slothead guitar belongs to Jerome. It was previously mine and I had it built that way with the 1-3/4 wideneck slotted headstock and FD14 electronics. I miss that guitar very much, but it is comforting to know that it is in the collection of Jerome.
Dave |
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Location: Chicago | Electronics: that word scares me. Take my ADII 1769 Custom Legend. A beautiful guitar. But never came close to my old 1117 PLUGGED IN. Tried three retrofits (two PROs one STUDIO).
So as I wait on the edge of my seat for my new 1581-5 reissue I'm wondering: what will the electronics do to the righteous (as promised) textured-top-as-speaker-cone sound? Wrote Dear Abbey. She did not help. |
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Location: SoCal | Dobro, how do you plug in a 1117 which is an acoustic only Legend? |
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Location: Paris/France | It's an old Lady and my favorite guitar!!!
Surely the easiest guitar I've ever played and it sounds so good.
The video was recorded with an old non digital camera and of course the sound was altered by the compression of the file.
I don't know why Ovation hadn't built Adamas models with that slothead neck specification because it's the best neck I know!!
J :) |
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Location: Japan | Originally posted by Tupperware:
Originally posted by Tupperware:
To each their own. I was only referring to 12 fret vs. 14 fret.
Dave
I mean, did Steve Lukather and Melissa Etheridge not have a choice when they decided to go with SMT's?
Apparently it's one of the most sacriligeous things that can be said here but I really think there is room in a world of individual tastes for the SMT or CVT to actually be a better choice some.
Not trying to argue even, but I love all my Adamas. ;) |
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Location: Chicago | Sleepy Bones: After a long consultation with Mr. Budny I opted for a Fishamn Matrix for the 1117 Legend. I gotta say that Fishman system kicks butt! However, I don't think its a Fishman v. OP Pro contest: Jeff Burns plays his Elite side-by-side with HIS Di Meola ADII 1769 and finds the same frustration: It's a matter of a very week high end (top strings above seventh fret) and an odd sort of muted dynamic overall. Gotta wonder about the "innovations" in bracing on that one. |
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Location: SoCal | Dob, I'm not gonna argue with you about this as I'm not qualified, whereas you are truly a player! But I would make the observation that the Elite and the DeMiola both have the same type of bracing, A or a variation of the A bracing. I'm surprised that there's a difference.
I've always thought that it would be interesting to get a whole bunch of different Ovations/Adamii in a room and do a sound comparison. Mostly when we get all of our guitars together, we're too busy having fun and playing. |
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Location: Japan | Originally posted by moody, p.i.:
I've always thought that it would be interesting to get a whole bunch of different Ovations/Adamii in a room and do a sound comparison. Mostly when we get all of our guitars together, we're too busy having fun and playing. That would be a lot of fun, and much as I'd like to be playing, I think it could be great just listening to the differences from the sidelines too! :) |
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Location: Chicago | Thanks for the encouragment, Moody. Believe me, there is a huge difference, dunno why. If one of us is playing his ADII 1769 and the other has the old axe (Elite or '74 1117) the old axe just blows the Di Meola away. You should hear Jeff Burns' plugged in sound. Granted, he's a monster player but I'm talking tone: that Elite is HUGE!!! But the 1769 puts up obstacles in the way. We'll be sure to join the OFC-ers soon for a jam. I'll be playing Adamas by then anyway so I'll let the ADII 1769 be what it is: the most beautiful (Abalone encrusted) instrument I own. But you're right: same bracing etc. What gives? |
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Location: SoCal | What Adamas are you getting? |
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Location: Chicago | Stephen Terry's 1581-5 reissue (the one in his gallery), nearly new....
I'm very excited! I'll be sure to post photos and a tune when I get it. |
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Location: SoCal | I've never played one, but everybody who has says that they are absolute cannons! Adamii are whole different animals than wood topped O's. Let us know what you think of it. I think my OFC slothead and Adamas I 12 string are the best guitars I own (sound and playability-wise), but would never sell my wood topped O's. They are great in their own ways.... |
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Location: Phoenix AZ | Paul, Didn't you play mine last year when you were delivering it to Temp? Dave |
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