Posted 2016-01-21 3:59 PM (#520534 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2005 Posts: 12759
Location: Boise, Idaho
I suppose everyone is over on the OFC Facebook site, watching the new photos from NAMM. I think the DW guys hit it out of the park and I hope they get a good reception at NAMM. The Adamas electric that just got posted is a surprise and really got me drooling. It might be the most innovative electric guitar since the UK2.
Posted 2016-01-21 9:10 PM (#520544 - in reply to #520543) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
I have been checking Standing, but no information on the Adamas Electric yet, just the few pictures, and no other pictures of the entire Exhibit, and other pieces being displayed...
Posted 2016-01-21 9:36 PM (#520545 - in reply to #520544) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: October 2012 Posts: 1082
Location: Yokohama, Japan
Nancy - 2016-01-21 11:10 AM
I have been checking Standing, but no information on the Adamas Electric yet, just the few pictures, and no other pictures of the entire Exhibit, and other pieces being displayed...
I saw Nancy's comment and re-posted the Adamas Electric photos for Standing; only to find they were already posted in the thread earlier! Sorry, but I must say, the PUPs and the aluminum bridge look awesome. Can't wait to find out more about the construction...the Mother Ship has been busy, busy, busy! Keep the pics coming please!
Posted 2016-01-22 12:56 AM (#520547 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2015 Posts: 41
Wow... I wasn't expecting that electric!
I'm very much a fan of those Alumitone pickups. They can be very acoustic sounding. My Parker has two humbuckers and a piezo, and has three knobs and two switches. The bridge on the Adamas looks like it likely has a pickup element in it, so I wonder what the controls are on it.
That metal nut looks sculpted.
Carbon fiber electrics aren't that common. The Composite Acoustics/Composite Electric was released a few weeks before CA folded, so it's nice to see a new entry into that market.
Posted 2016-01-22 2:02 AM (#520548 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: April 2004 Posts: 13303
Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066
Adamas Viper guitar is just a proto and may never see the light of day.
It was very cool looking and lite (guessing in the 7# range) and played fantastic and sounded great.
This is one I would have to consider buying if the decide to produce it.
Posted 2016-01-22 5:42 AM (#520549 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: May 2011 Posts: 758
Location: Muenster/Germany
I don´t play electric guitars, but the Adamas is ..we say in Germany: "der Hammer". Appears to be an acoustic/electric.
Too bad the awesome Folklore is a 6 string...Ovation ever since built the only really playable 12string guitars! This 12-fret could be a good basis for a "Joan Armatrading" model. Noone knows how many of us went for their first Ovation 12string guitar thanks to "Love and affection".
Posted 2016-01-22 8:38 AM (#520551 - in reply to #520546) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
nerdydave - 2016-01-21 11:54 PM
Why would you be banned from the machine??
I am spending WAY too much time on the machine, and am wasting time to live my life, so I have grounded myself to one hour a day total for a bit. I had to ban myself from the News too, I was getting so mad, it was affecting everything, so No News for 2 weeks. It recenters me, and then I remember what a wonderful world is really out there, how blessed I really am, and I am happy again!
Posted 2016-01-22 2:51 PM (#520558 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: June 2002 Posts: 6202
Location: Phoenix AZ
I knew the 40th and 50th models would be nice but once inmy hands I was blown away how nice they really are. The legend, folklore and bearclaw were all serial numbers 1. Come on guys I want to see serial numbers 2 !!!
Posted 2016-01-22 8:31 PM (#520568 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: January 2002 Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch
Press conferencence was nice. Some gas station guy got up and said "Charlie had a great idea and it took 10 years to get it launched. Then he said to his son, here you take it. And so he did and with the team he assembled kicked serious built through out the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The company paused in the 00s and now DW and Chris Lombardi have come along and share the same vision that made Ovation Great, and they will do it again. So from what seemed like the end Chris and his team have brought one of the greatest brands in America back. We wish them all the success in the world and will do whatever needs to be done to support and help them" At that point the crowd was falling asleep and before he could talk on about the rising price of jet fuel, Chris handed him the bearclaw Adamas and said "here, we want you to have this as part of this celebration and in recognition of the 50 years" the Gass Station guy, being sensitive to the situation said Thank You Very Much, and wished them all the luck in the world, and then shut up......
Posted 2016-01-22 9:53 PM (#520573 - in reply to #520568) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Beal - 2016-01-22 8:31 PM
Press conferencence was nice. Some gas station guy got up and said "Charlie had a great idea and it took 10 years to get it launched. Then he said to his son, here you take it. And so he did and with the team he assembled kicked serious built through out the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The company paused in the 00s and now DW and Chris Lombardi have come along and share the same vision that made Ovation Great, and they will do it again. So from what seemed like the end Chris and his team have brought one of the greatest brands in America back. We wish them all the success in the world and will do whatever needs to be done to support and help them" At that point the crowd was falling asleep and before he could talk on about the rising price of jet fuel, Chris handed him the bearclaw Adamas and said "here, we want you to have this as part of this celebration and in recognition of the 50 years" the Gass Station guy, being sensitive to the situation said Thank You Very Much, and wished them all the luck in the world, and then shut up......
R-E-S-P-E-C-T!!!!
This was just as Exciting as the 4th of July Announcement!!!! YES!!!!! It was Wonderful that they Acknowledged the Man and the Company that made Ovation Great, and Beal saying that we would support DW in carrying that Torch forward!!! Class Act Guys, All of You!!!
THANK YOU DAMON!!!!!!
And Beal, if you and Laurel ever come up to the Tundra, bring your BearClaw, we can play dueling BearClaws!!! That was SO NICE of them to present you with #1!!!!! (I can't wait to see #9!!)
Posted 2016-01-23 11:15 AM (#520583 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: October 2005 Posts: 4065
Location: Utah
Can anyone who's played one of the new guitars give an unbiased review? I am most interested in how the mid depth bowl sounds compared to the old deep or deep contour. Even more specifically how the bear claw 12 fretter mid bowl sounds. My current acoustics are a Patriot, 1537, and 2080. The red gloss 50th Bear Claw would replace at least one of those if it has the right sound.
Posted 2016-01-23 11:45 AM (#520584 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: May 2015 Posts: 186
Location: Glendora, CA
Oh man that Bearclaw is even cooler than I imagined. In 10 years when someone is ready to sell theirs let me know...
I am so glad they are showing off the carbon fiber cloth like my W597.
... and the Viper with dual Humbuckers AND a pizio...
humina humina humina
I just started playing electric and play a strat HH with dual humbs - cant even imaging what adding a saddle pickup could produce.
Drool... wish I was at NAMM this year as usual, but the cousin with the guitar store in Fairbanks that I tag along with had to go and have a baby
Posted 2016-01-23 12:09 PM (#520586 - in reply to #520584) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
They would have to tie my hands behind my back, and put a bandana through my mouth and tie it behind my head, I would be going NUTSO!!! That must have been Cool to go to TR!!! I am sorry you missed it this year... It looks like allot of the OFC Family showed up, and that is Great Support!
Did anyone get pictures of the rest of the display, so we can see what else is new and exciting??? It looks like there are ALLOT of Ovations there, would love to see them!
Posted 2016-01-23 12:56 PM (#520588 - in reply to #520583) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2002 Posts: 15674
Location: SoCal
FlySig - 2016-01-23 9:15 AM
Can anyone who's played one of the new guitars give an unbiased review? I am most interested in how the mid depth bowl sounds compared to the old deep or deep contour. Even more specifically how the bear claw 12 fretter mid bowl sounds. My current acoustics are a Patriot, 1537, and 2080. The red gloss 50th Bear Claw would replace at least one of those if it has the right sound.
It's impossible, at NAMM, to get any sense of what a guitar sounds like. There is just too much noise to hear anything. Sound comparisons will come later as they get delivered to the new owners....
Posted 2016-01-23 2:53 PM (#520590 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: June 2002 Posts: 6202
Location: Phoenix AZ
Of course the 40th and 50th models were a highlight. But I must add that I was REALLY IMPRESSED with the Korean import models. Quality is MUCH MUCH improved and these guitars are a huge band for the buck. I've been very negative about the celebrity models over the past decades necause quite frankly the quality control was terrible. But that tide has really shifted in my opinion. I would actually BUY a custom legend AX and not think twice about it.
oh,and the other highlight ... Brad Davis and John Jorgenson ripping the roof off the ESP/Takamine room with the duet performance. Just jaw dropping how these guys can pick it. And to give a nod to Takamine being road worthy, Brad and John didn't bring their own guitars. They just went to the display wall and took down an SBG and JJ model that everyones grubby hands had been all over for two days, changed the batteries, went on stage and plugged in. Not ovation related, but for me it was still a highlight and Very, very impressive.
Posted 2016-01-23 3:27 PM (#520591 - in reply to #520590) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Standingovation - 2016-01-23 2:53 PM
Of course the 40th and 50th models were a highlight. But I must add that I was REALLY IMPRESSED with the Korean import models. Quality is MUCH MUCH improved and these guitars are a huge band for the buck. I've been very negative about the celebrity models over the past decades necause quite frankly the quality control was terrible. But that tide has really shifted in my opinion. I would actually BUY a custom legend AX and not think twice about it.
THAT is SO nice to hear!!! There is someone at the helm again who knows how to steer a ship! Makes a HUGE difference when the Owner gives a darn about their Name and Reputation! This is a Good Thing! Thank You for sharing that! Now, if we could just get someone to share pictures of these new Goodies!
Posted 2016-01-23 3:45 PM (#520592 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: August 2003 Posts: 4619
Location: SoCal
John's signature Takamine (art deco) 6 and 12 string (JJ325SRC-12) are both excellent guitars. Picked up the 12-string a couple of years ago at a local John and Brad workshop...John, Brad, the store, and the Rep got me a deal I couldn't turn down, especially after I played it.
Along with a nice discount, it came with the CT4BII but they also tossed in a new CTP-2 (tried both but kept the CT4BII in the guitar).
Before criticism about posting about Takamine, I have eight Ovation 12-strs, had an Adamas 1688-8, and have a D12-45 Martin.
Posted 2016-01-23 11:33 PM (#520595 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: July 2015 Posts: 190
Location: SW Mintsoda
Lefty! Lefty! Lefty! I saw a LEFTY!!!
...oh, probably just one of the Korean ones... too bad, I really got my hopes us that they had made a USA lefty for the show (but it's not one of the 50th Anniversary models - duh!).
Standing O says the Korean ones have improved... hmmm...
Posted 2016-01-24 11:56 AM (#520599 - in reply to #520590) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 7231
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest
Standingovation - 2016-01-23 12:53 PM
Of course the 40th and 50th models were a highlight. But I must add that I was REALLY IMPRESSED with the Korean import models. Quality is MUCH MUCH improved and these guitars are a huge band for the buck. I've been very negative about the celebrity models over the past decades necause quite frankly the quality control was terrible. But that tide has really shifted in my opinion. I would actually BUY a custom legend AX and not think twice about it.
Yes very impressive indeed. Back to the early days when import just meant more affordable. I also observed that you no longer need a magnifing lens to tell the difference. The tops, finishes, and detail are much different between the Current USA .models and imports. Both quality builds, well setup, but still a clearly visible difference.
Posted 2016-01-24 7:02 PM (#520605 - in reply to #520590) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: October 2012 Posts: 1082
Location: Yokohama, Japan
Standingovation - 2016-01-23 4:53 AM
Of course the 40th and 50th models were a highlight. But I must add that I was REALLY IMPRESSED with the Korean import models. Quality is MUCH MUCH improved and these guitars are a huge band for the buck. I've been very negative about the celebrity models over the past decades necause quite frankly the quality control was terrible. But that tide has really shifted in my opinion. I would actually BUY a custom legend AX and not think twice about it.
Nice observation Standing. When you say, "Korean import models" are you including the Chinese built Os? Over the last 6 months or so here in Japan, there is a noticeable difference in the quality of the MIC Os as well the MIK Os. Just curious as I suspect sales of the Celebrity and other import lines will be the bread and butter that keep the Mother Ships financial buoyancy in order.
Hopefully, a strong showing at NAMM will mean more orders and more guitars to build at NH too. Thanks for all the photos and updates, everybody! Nice pick-up Mr. Ovation!
Posted 2016-01-24 7:07 PM (#520607 - in reply to #520606) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
And a Video from Ovation Guitars also on Facebook, this shows ALL of the Newbies:
(Please forgive me, I don't know how to imbed a video, and I am too tired to read the instructions! )
DW, You did us Proud!! There are some really FINE looking Guitars there!!!
Guess I *am* going to have to empty the store-room and tool-room...
LOVE the Walnut Laminate, absolutely Stunning!!!
Posted 2016-01-24 9:57 PM (#520610 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6995
Location: Jet City
I spent a good part of Sunday at the booth. I had a chance to play with many of the guitars, including the imports. More info, pictures, and video once I can get back to my machine at home.
Best part tho... seeing some of my ol' OFC friends,and making new ones. It's great that Ovation had a 50th at NAMM for us to use as an excuse to get together.
Posted 2016-01-25 9:28 AM (#520612 - in reply to #520604) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: July 2015 Posts: 190
Location: SW Mintsoda
Nancy - 2016-01-24 7:01 PM
Here are a few more pictures from the FaceBook OFC page:
Anyone know the story on the guitar with the "orange" body (that matches the guitar top) in the last photo Nancy posted above? It's one of the guitars hanging on the wall, lower level.
Would also like to know more about possible future lefty offerings...
Posted 2016-01-25 9:52 AM (#520615 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2015 Posts: 41
360Ovation - 2016-01-25 7:28 AM
Anyone know the story on the guitar with the "orange" body (that matches the guitar top) in the last photo Nancy posted above? It's one of the guitars hanging on the wall, lower level.
That one jumped out at me as well. I was trying to figure out what made it so distinctive for me as I was checking out the lack of epaulets... but I didn't consciously note the bowl color.
Posted 2016-01-25 10:53 AM (#520617 - in reply to #520612) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
360Ovation - 2016-01-25 9:28 AM
Nancy - 2016-01-24 7:01 PM
Here are a few more pictures from the FaceBook OFC page:
Anyone know the story on the guitar with the "orange" body (that matches the guitar top) in the last photo Nancy posted above? It's one of the guitars hanging on the wall, lower level.
Would also like to know more about possible future lefty offerings...
That one was featured on the Ovation Guitars Facebook Page, and was VERY well recieved. It is funny only 2 no's on it, all the rest were very positive, and they were almost ALL Men! Interesting to note! (at least for me it was! )
Posted 2016-01-25 11:11 AM (#520621 - in reply to #520620) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
This one is from The Ovation Instruments Collectors Board, run by our very own Daniel!!
I don't believe that it has a thing to do with NAMM 2016, but it is one Hellacious piece of Art, and whoever envisioned it, and brought it to life, KNOWS the History of Ovation, and the Company! Really Incredible!! I just wanted to share it with everyone.
Posted 2016-01-25 10:48 PM (#520643 - in reply to #520642) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6995
Location: Jet City
The imports are very impressive. I sat down with most of the new 2016 models and they were just plain nice, no getting around it. The vibrant colors, the use of exotic woods, and the overall fit and finish turned the eye of every passer by. Can I tell the difference from the new USA models to the imports, well of course, but can I tell these new imports from the older LX models like say a 1771LX?? Not quite as easy.
I've embraced Ovation's use of color over the years, it's one of the things I think set the brand apart from the other wood colored boxes. If you look at my collection I have red, white, blue, brown, gray, black, etc... yes, even natural too. These new models have kicked it up a notch. Yeah, there are the original Legends and Elites, but the new colors were what everyone seemed to be grabbing for.
This green one was Bill's assistant Mike's idea. He found this color/wood combo on some drum shells and told Bill they needed to do it. Bill surprised him later with it. I like it, what do you think?
I really like this color combo up close. I do wish they matched the top sides better though...
Posted 2016-01-25 11:21 PM (#520646 - in reply to #520645) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6995
Location: Jet City
Lita and Rudy doing some role reversal...
Back to normal...
Rudy liked the doubleneck.
Lita's face lit up when she started in on the Elite T 12er.
She REALLY liked it. After that she started tellin me how she did "Close My Eyes Forever" (duet with Ozzy) on her Ovation 12 string, and that she still has and LOVES that guitar. OK, she was probably telling everyone, but in my mind she was talking only to me.
Then in came this ol' gas station dude messin' with my action...
Posted 2016-01-25 11:31 PM (#520648 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6995
Location: Jet City
I spent the last part of Sunday hanging out at the booth. Chris Lombardi came by with his family. It was great being able to meet them.
I like the family vibe I get off him. That's been missing from Ovation ever since the Beal departure. I'm excited about it. You can tell Chris is excited too.
Chris is the real reason Ovation USA is breathing life again, well him and the New Hartford team's tenacity.
Posted 2016-01-25 11:36 PM (#520649 - in reply to #520648) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6995
Location: Jet City
I know this one's already been shown by another, but it's a good one so I'm posting too. It would have been good to have a chance to plug in with these guys... another time.
Kim Keller and um.... jeez, Dave, what's your name on here now, Tupperware? Gallerinski? I forget. And my newly met OFC friend Mario who I gave way too much of a hard time to at dinner that eve. It was the tequila talking Mario
Posted 2016-01-26 12:18 AM (#520651 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2013 Posts: 359
Location: undisclosed
Geez Damon, snuggling Lita Ford and schmoozing with the brass. I'll have to forgive you for not calling me back after I couldn't make New Year's. You are out of town after all....
About the green one.... I like forest colors but tend to be old fashioned regarding grain, it is pretty, how did it sound? Nice to see a Mando, does losing the epis change the tone ? It tempts me to pull the ones off my project one as I like the industrial effect.
PS Ask Lita if she needs any violin!
Posted 2016-01-26 1:43 AM (#520653 - in reply to #520650) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6995
Location: Jet City
Old Man Arthur - 2016-01-25 10:08 PM Screw it... I'll say it. Why does everybody feel a need to change the Ovation Headstock?
My opinion on the matter... Nearly every manufacturer uses various shaped headstocks. This ain't like no other Ovation/Adamas ever. It deserves it's own headstock. It's Darren's design, and i like the thing.
If they were changing all the headstocks I'd have issues for sure, but that's not what's going on here.
Posted 2016-01-26 1:51 AM (#520654 - in reply to #520651) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6995
Location: Jet City
Cavalier - 2016-01-25 10:18 PM Geez Damon, snuggling Lita Ford and schmoozing with the brass. I'll have to forgive you for not calling me back after I couldn't make New Year's. You are out of town after all.... About the green one.... I like forest colors but tend to be old fashioned regarding grain, it is pretty, how did it sound? Nice to see a Mando, does losing the epis change the tone ? It tempts me to pull the ones off my project one as I like the industrial effect. PS Ask Lita if she needs any violin!
Chris, I can't speak to the sounds and tones too much with the noise factor there. My comments are more to the 3 Fs... fit, finish and feel.
We're going to try to get something going a week from Saturday, you interested? There are some other musical guests coming in from out of state. Your fiddle would be a glorious addition.
Posted 2016-01-26 6:07 AM (#520656 - in reply to #520653) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 7231
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest
Damon67 - 2016-01-25 11:43 PM
Old Man Arthur - 2016-01-25 10:08 PM Screw it... I'll say it. Why does everybody feel a need to change the Ovation Headstock?
My opinion on the matter... Nearly every manufacturer uses various shaped headstocks. This ain't like no other Ovation/Adamas ever. It deserves it's own headstock. It's Darren's design, and i like the thing.
If they were changing all the headstocks I'd have issues for sure, but that's not what's going on here.
Posted 2016-01-26 6:09 AM (#520657 - in reply to #520643) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: October 2012 Posts: 1082
Location: Yokohama, Japan
Damon67 - 2016-01-25 12:48 PM
The imports are very impressive. I sat down with most of the new 2016 models and they were just plain nice, no getting around it. The vibrant colors, the use of exotic woods, and the overall fit and finish turned the eye of every passer by. Can I tell the difference from the new USA models to the imports, well of course, but can I tell these new imports from the older LX models like say a 1771LX?? Not quite as easy.
This green one was Bill's assistant Mike's idea. He found this color/wood combo on some drum shells and told Bill they needed to do it. Bill surprised him later with it. I like it, what do you think?
Damon67 complimenting the imports is high praise, indeed! Extra care is taken when making "show samples", but I hope the Asian factories keep up the good assembly for their mass produced products that go out to market. But maybe DW took those NAMM guitars right off of the regular production line? xraiderman's comments in the interview seem to indicate that...and like you say, those colorful finishes are incredible!
It is so inspiring that the management gets a kick out of surprising assistants. DW sounds like a fun company to work for, and O's future is looking better all the time! Thanks for sharing these awesome pictures Damon67! To get a glimpse of my favorite guitar brand at NAMM way out here in the farthest eastern corner of the world is well...just...thank you!
Posted 2016-01-26 7:13 AM (#520659 - in reply to #520654) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2013 Posts: 359
Location: undisclosed
Damon67 - 2016-01-25 11:51 P
We're going to try to get something going a week from Saturday, you interested? There are some other musical guests coming in from out of state. Your fiddle would be a glorious addition.
I'll be there! The 6th then. I'll have enough time to rearrange my schedule. Should I bring my floor rack or just an amp?
Posted 2016-01-26 8:40 AM (#520665 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2003 Posts: 852
Location: Canada
Thanks, Damon for the pictures. Just noticed now that the bearclaw Adamas seems to be a 12 - fret, that makes it even more appealing. I would think they should sell more than 50 of these! As for the imports I like the looks of them as well. But what I think counts more than cosmetics is what's under the hood. And Arumako's reports at the BFLG have me concerned that these import guitars would be difficult to service whick kinda makes them disposable too at the low price point. I like guitars that last, so what I really hope is that DW will improve the construction features of the import guitars, e.g. by bringing back the LX necks.
Posted 2016-01-26 9:13 AM (#520667 - in reply to #520518) Subject: RE: Live From NAMM
Joined: May 2006 Posts: 4232
Location: Steeler Nation, Hudson Valley Contingent
And oh yeah! I can't remember the last time I've wanted an electric like I'm wanting that Adamas.
To be honest, one of its primary selling points to me is the headstock and overall aesthetics. (Yeah. sound is important, but just like a great meal, you take your first bite with your eyes.)
Unlike that asymmetrical LT-60 monstrosity that Fender cobbled together, this guitar's features and lines fold into one another and maintain a centerline from the endpin to the tip of the stylized "shovel" on the headstock. Follow with your eye between the 3rd and 4th strings from the bridge through the HS to see what I mean. The symmetry is actually accented by the grasuated length of the inlays up the fretboard being centered (or very nearly so) between the nut and the bridge.
To me, the points (only barely there) on the HS pick up the angles of the CF overlay; tying them neatly to the original Ovation HS design but at the same time adding to the hard-as-steel, overall aesthetic of the instrument by complimenting the inlays, pick-ups, and bridge.
Kudos to Darren for either overthinking small details like I do or having a very good eye for aesthetics. (Probably a bit of both....)
SIGH again.....Guess I should have bought TWO lottery tickets....
Posted 2016-01-26 9:54 AM (#520669 - in reply to #520667) Subject: RE: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Damon, I KNEW that you would come through for us!! THANK YOU!!!!!
From now on, you are the Official OFC Photographer, and Must attend every function, so that the rest of us can see and feel everything going on! Thank You VERY, VERY Much!!!
Patch, I agree with everything you said! I Love the shape of the headstock, it is a futuristic spin of the historic headstock, actually the same shape, just modified enough to bring it forward.
I Love the Adamas coming out of the O like Damon had mentioned, because Adamas really did come out of Ovation, very neat detail to add!!
And I Love the Fret inlays from the #23 Prototype! How Cool is that!!!!!
I don't know all the techie terms for the Electrics, but I love the new Tuner Knobs, the plates under the strings that match the fretboard style, the design is really Incredible, and the small, but very significant, details are Impressive to say the least!
I only have one problem with this guitar, and if they fix that, I will get one to hang beside my UKII in a cross necks pattern...
Posted 2016-01-26 10:39 AM (#520674 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2005 Posts: 12759
Location: Boise, Idaho
The inlays (fret markers) caught my eye right away, but I didn't notice until Patch started waxing about the aesthetics how the inlays match the pickups. Really, the whole guitar come together. It's not just some bling or gadgetry, it's a major statement that says this is something new that fits with Ovation's reputation for technology and outside the box thinking.
Posted 2016-01-26 10:41 AM (#520675 - in reply to #520674) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Mark in Boise - 2016-01-26 10:39 AM
The inlays (fret markers) caught my eye right away, but I didn't notice until Patch started waxing about the aesthetics how the inlays match the pickups. Really, the whole guitar come together. It's not just some bling or gadgetry, it's a major statement that says this is something new that fits with Ovation's reputation for technology and outside the box thinking.
+1 They did an Incredible job of entwining the Old and the New in one piece, Very Impressive!
Posted 2016-01-26 10:53 AM (#520676 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6995
Location: Jet City
I can tell you that Darren put a tremendous amount of thought into it. It wasn't just some ol' thing thrown together for the show, it's a seriously badass instrument.
And guess what, it only weighs 5 lbs! The thing is super light and comfortable. I'm already saving pennies.
And you're very welcome all, thanks for the kind words.
Posted 2016-01-26 11:18 AM (#520678 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2005 Posts: 12759
Location: Boise, Idaho
Nancy,
I didn't mean to sound like I was correcting your wording. I started typing my last post in response to Patch and you posted in between us when I got a phone call. I'm with you on the red. I only have 2 red guitars and kick myself for passing up Woody's red VXT and a red Deacon.
5 pounds is lighter than the UK2 and should add a practical aspect to anyone who plays a lot with an electric guitar. I hope it's not just a prototype, like the PFs. We'd have to call it the FF.
Posted 2016-01-26 11:46 AM (#520681 - in reply to #520678) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2014 Posts: 1713
Location: Frozen Tundra of Minnesota
Mark in Boise - 2016-01-26 11:18 AM
Nancy,
I didn't mean to sound like I was correcting your wording. I started typing my last post in response to Patch and you posted in between us when I got a phone call. I'm with you on the red. I only have 2 red guitars and kick myself for passing up Woody's red VXT and a red Deacon.
5 pounds is lighter than the UK2 and should add a practical aspect to anyone who plays a lot with an electric guitar. I hope it's not just a prototype, like the PFs. We'd have to call it the FF.
No, PLEASE Mark, I appreciate when people give me the correct terminology and words!! I really do!! I won't learn if someone doesn't share their knowledge, and I *know* that you are sharing, not reprimanding!!! So Please Folks, if you see something I have wrong, PLEASE feel free to let me know what it should be!!! I don't take offense as long as you don't preface it with "Hey Stupid!"
I went downstairs this morning to sigh and smile, and noticed that I am getting a good proportion of Red in the Cave, I am doing good!!! You can never have enough Red, a nice bright Cherry Red would be nice, with the black and silver appointments would be Stellar!!!
Posted 2016-01-26 12:07 PM (#520682 - in reply to #520654) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: October 2005 Posts: 4065
Location: Utah
Damon67 - 2016-01-26 12:51 AM
Chris, I can't speak to the sounds and tones too much with the noise factor there. My comments are more to the 3 Fs... fit, finish and feel.
With that disclaimer acknowledged, what's your opinion of the new bowl? There was a comment somewhere about a new material or process for these bowls. Did you play the bear claw Adamas, and if so how did it sound?
I'm really really trying to pull the trigger on one of those. The mid bowl is the stumbling block. I prefer the tone of the deep bowls I've owned over the mid bowls, O's and A's. The 12 fret neck should help deepen the tone a bit, and the bone saddle should help with tone overall compared to the piezo.
Did you note if there is a hatch in the back of that bowl?
Posted 2016-01-26 12:20 PM (#520684 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: June 2002 Posts: 6202
Location: Phoenix AZ
Bearclaw has a hatchdoor because you can not access the inside via the sound ports. Teardrop has no hatchdoor.
The contour bowl is cut down slightly vs the original (maybe 1/2 inch?). Felt extremely comfortable. I would not worry at all about the bowl depth. Same for the non-contour bowl. The roughly mid-depth bowl on the folklore and the bearclaw seems "just right".
Posted 2016-01-26 12:28 PM (#520685 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: January 2006 Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains
The Adamas electric is intriguing. Its basic shape looks like a Viper on the upper bout but with a slightly longer and more tapered horn on treble side, unlike the VXT which more closely resembles the body contours of the UKII. Controls are also more like the VXT, with a bridge more like an EA Viper. I bet its a killer in sound and feel. The headstock sure carries a more contemporary presentation of the traditional Ovation double paddle headstock. Sort of like the early 60's Cadillacs following those giant fins of the '59 model. I am perfectly ok with it.
Posted 2016-01-26 12:30 PM (#520687 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2008 Posts: 2683
Location: Hot Springs, S.D.
I am not an electric person, but I want one of those new Adamas electrics. I agree with what most of you said about the looks, but what makes me want one is the sound. Thanks Damon, for the great pics, and especially for that video.
Posted 2016-01-26 3:00 PM (#520696 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2006 Posts: 6995
Location: Jet City
It's a Loudbox Mini on the Ovation pickup coupled with a combo amp on the humbuckers. A blend between the two. Don't remember the combo, maybe a black cat?
Posted 2016-01-26 3:08 PM (#520697 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2013 Posts: 359
Location: undisclosed
I think they have a winner there, I'd get the electric over an acoustic. For me I'd like to see the same treatment on a Breadwinner style body. I do like the Adamas, shape wise it reminds me of the old Gibson L6S.
Posted 2016-01-26 8:08 PM (#520705 - in reply to #520697) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2015 Posts: 41
Cavalier - 2016-01-26 1:08 PM
I think they have a winner there, I'd get the electric over an acoustic. For me I'd like to see the same treatment on a Breadwinner style body. I do like the Adamas, shape wise it reminds me of the old Gibson L6S.
Gee, a Breadwinner/Deacon body would be a winner...! A solid link to the past, but with modern appointments!
Posted 2016-01-27 2:30 AM (#520710 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2013 Posts: 359
Location: undisclosed
I have often wondered if names like Deacon and Peacher hurt the marketing of the guitars. It is always seems better to come up with something catchy that everyone can relate to.
Posted 2016-01-27 2:35 PM (#520731 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2013 Posts: 359
Location: undisclosed
I may be somewhat pagan but I think introducing a Druid line of guitars might not appeal to all.... it really depends on customers degree of cultural acceptance of diversity. Everybody has money, a company is limited if it only caters to one sector of the populace.
Posted 2016-01-27 4:14 PM (#520739 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2013 Posts: 359
Location: undisclosed
Give this one a turbo but cross the fence and you'll have to name the version for naughty nuns "persuasion, the voice within ".
I think the way to pull it off is to give the guitars new names with the update.
This reminds me off playing in clubs on Seattle's Capitol Hill Way back, I have to go to NAMM next year...
Posted 2016-01-27 4:42 PM (#520740 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2013 Posts: 359
Location: undisclosed
If they kept the Deacon name and a photo shoot like this came up the "Deacon, Embracing All Diversity" campaign might miss out on the church band market but "Slipstream" might just raise an eyebrow. I apologize in advance if my advertising humor upsets anyone, I'm merely trying to point out the challenges of marketing.
Posted 2016-01-27 7:55 PM (#520744 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: September 2006 Posts: 10777
Location: Keepin' It Weird in Portland, OR
I think that you are getting a bit caught up in religious bias.
Martin guitars are made in Nazareth, by Quakers and Mennonites.
Guitars with names like Demon and Bich sell and are played by Christian bands.
Let's made a premium carbon fiber Breadwinner and call The Pope!
Posted 2016-01-27 8:16 PM (#520745 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: March 2013 Posts: 359
Location: undisclosed
No bias, just looking at non polarizing ways to market the guitars and speculating on why some of these instruments didn't catch on. Like politics religion can be a sensitive area., Not sure if it is still true but my friends in music stores used to say that the church market was their largest so maybe the Pope model would sell big.
Posted 2016-01-27 11:02 PM (#520750 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2015 Posts: 41
If one were really to expand on the name, then exapnd feom the Breadwinner to the Mogul or the Tycoon... or even the Philanthropist or (for magnanimity) the. Magnus.
Posted 2016-01-28 5:47 AM (#520754 - in reply to #520750) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: January 2009 Posts: 4535
Location: Flahdaw
Explorer - 2016-01-28 12:02 AM
If one were really to expand on the name, then exapnd feom the Breadwinner to the Mogul or the Tycoon... or even the Philanthropist or (for magnanimity) the. Magnus.
Posted 2016-02-03 12:32 AM (#520854 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2008 Posts: 1454
Location: Texas
Random questions/thoughts (mostly) related to the Adamas Viper:
When did it go from a prototype to "available now" as stated at the end of the Premiere Guitar video?
If the Adamas Viper is (or will be) available, will it have that new headstock? (If so, will I be able to easily clip my capo &/or tuner on it?)
I have two conflicting thoughts about that headstock.
A. I'm all for change and modernization, but…
Have any of you ever seen someone playing a guitar on a stage and thought "what kind of guitar is that?"
There are a ton of headstock shapes out there from (most) guitar makers that are so similar that they all look the same from more than a few feet away. IMO very few headstocks are as distinctive, iconic and recognizable (even at a distance) as the paddlehead. To me, there's no doubt it's an Ovation when I spot THAT headstock, even from quite far away. From an audience, will anyone recognize that Viper as an Ovation? Does it matter?
I think that every time someone recognizes the brand of the guitar, it helps further popularize the brand and builds on existing brand awareness. Why would you want to hide the fact that an innovative new model is an Ovation? And why confuse the overall brand recognition with more than one headstock shape (unless the brand has a negative image)?
Which brings me to the opposing idea:
B. Maybe the reality is that "Ovation" does have a negative image with some consumers? Some might suggest that the last owners of the Ovation brand muddied up the brand-name by labeling their more-affordable mass-produced guitars as "Ovation" instead of using a different brand (like "Celebrity") as was done further in the past.
Maybe from now on, ALL USA-made guitars, (regardless of whether they're wood-topped, carbon-fiber or anything else) should simply be labeled "Adamas" on the headstock and "Adamas by DW, made in the USA" on the label! In that case they probaly should sport a new, unique headstock that intentionally separates them from all other "brands" (even the other brands owned by DW, such as "Ovation")?
Posted 2016-02-03 2:39 AM (#521854 - in reply to #520854) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 7231
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest
standing - 2016-02-02 10:32 PM
Random questions/thoughts (mostly) related to the Adamas Viper:
When did it go from a prototype to "available now" as stated at the end of the Premiere Guitar video?
If the Adamas Viper is (or will be) available, will it have that new headstock? (If so, will I be able to easily clip my capo &/or tuner on it?)
I have two conflicting thoughts about that headstock.
A. I'm all for change and modernization, but…
Have any of you ever seen someone playing a guitar on a stage and thought "what kind of guitar is that?"
There are a ton of headstock shapes out there from (most) guitar makers that are so similar that they all look the same from more than a few feet away. IMO very few headstocks are as distinctive, iconic and recognizable (even at a distance) as the paddlehead. To me, there's no doubt it's an Ovation when I spot THAT headstock, even from quite far away. From an audience, will anyone recognize that Viper as an Ovation? Does it matter?
I think that every time someone recognizes the brand of the guitar, it helps further popularize the brand and builds on existing brand awareness. Why would you want to hide the fact that an innovative new model is an Ovation? And why confuse the overall brand recognition with more than one headstock shape (unless the brand has a negative image)?
Which brings me to the opposing idea:
B. Maybe the reality is that "Ovation" does have a negative image with some consumers? Some might suggest that the last owners of the Ovation brand muddied up the brand-name by labeling their more-affordable mass-produced guitars as "Ovation" instead of using a different brand (like "Celebrity") as was done further in the past.
Maybe from now on, ALL USA-made guitars, (regardless of whether they're wood-topped, carbon-fiber or anything else) should simply be labeled "Adamas" on the headstock and "Adamas by DW, made in the USA" on the label! In that case they probaly should sport a new, unique headstock that intentionally separates them from all other "brands" (even the other brands owned by DW, such as "Ovation")?
Heresy? Perhaps, (but I personally favor "B".)
Just an opinion (from a retired marketing guy.)
Good points. A couple of further observations..
On the Viper.. and this is speculation based on what I saw... when enough people say "I want one, who do I write the check to?" it's time to consider making it a production model... but keep in mind you have to think about "production" in DW speak. That doesn't mean make a gazillion and sell'em at Gutiar Center. Production means.. it's an option and we'll build you one if you want it. Now this particular Viper was a one-off, but I played it. I want one. I didn't even realize it had a piezo so I went back and hooked it up with the stereo cable. I think I might be almost ready to say it's better than the VXT cause the piezo or whatever it is, sounds damn nice, and I'm not sure it has a pre-amp. Maybe someone else noticed, but I think it's all passive. I could be wrong. In any case... did I mention... I want one. The headstock looks better in person. I'm guessing (again) doing the traditional shape with carbon fiber might be an issue.
On the name.. DW seems to be leaning that if it has a Carbon Fiber top, it's an Adamas. Hence Adamas Viper. The headstock name actually has an Ovation "O" morphed with the word Adamas. It's a prototype and I like the idea... not sure if it's going to happen that way. We'll have to see.
Finally, the folks at the booth were getting hammered with questions and interviews ALL weekend. There was insane traffic at that booth from media types of all shapes and sizes. I'm sure there were some mis-speaks along the way as well. It happens.
Bottom line, the basic models are there in the catalog. If you want something close with maybe a cosmetic change, ask for it, they'll either say yeay or nay, then pay for it, wait for delivery.
Posted 2016-02-03 9:37 AM (#521862 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: September 2003 Posts: 9301
Location: south east Michigan
I didn't think the demo did much to show what that guitar can do.
I'm sure it can go from subtle to scream and everything in between.
I'd like to hear how a Matt Smith test drive would sound.
Posted 2016-02-03 2:58 PM (#521871 - in reply to #521862) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: December 2001 Posts: 7231
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest
Slipkid - 2016-02-03 7:37 AM
I didn't think the demo did much to show what that guitar can do.
I'm sure it can go from subtle to scream and everything in between.
I'd like to hear how a Matt Smith test drive would sound.
Posted 2016-02-04 10:40 AM (#521892 - in reply to #521876) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: July 2015 Posts: 190
Location: SW Mintsoda
TAFKAR - 2016-02-03 4:18 PM
That's a challenge for Bill X. Get Matt Smith or some other professional muso to do a demo video and put it up on the Ovation website.
Agreed - I was thinking the same thing - Ovation needs to create several "non-NAMM" videos that feature the tones of these guitars and get them on YouTube asap. Nothing recorded at NAMM is worth a DAMM.
Step Two: Build several non-Anniversary (aka standard) models so we can see what else is coming in the near future, and also feature these in some YouTube videos, until they can get their own website updated to feature the products.
Posted 2016-02-05 8:09 AM (#521914 - in reply to #520518) Subject: Re: Live From NAMM
Joined: January 2006 Posts: 5881
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains
I sure like that Adamas Viper but I am now trying to address my gas issue, not just on these new models, but generally for all things guitar. I can only take three guitars on stage with me and two of them are already customs from the old Mothership (well, Aunt Hamer). These guitars work so well for me that I don't see anything coming on the scene to replace them. My dilemma is that I don't know what I would do with yet another wall hanger that would get played only sporadically. I swore off new guitars a few years ago, broke the rule once, then went crazy on amps. And as a retiree, I have more to time to look around at new gear, so the temptation I'm feeling from this little devil sitting on my shoulder and whispering in my ear is not easy to deal with.
Live From NAMM
