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Joined:
December 2003
Posts: 85
Location: Taichung, Taiwan | I'm dreaming that I might be able to get a second guitar if I can prove that it is significantly different from the one I have. 6 more strings should convince my wife that it is really a different instrument. If I manage it, what are the significant pros and cons between a Balladeer 6751, a Pacemaker, and a GC 1618? I know the Balladeer is probably on the bottom of things and GC's 1618 is better, but I'm banging things out on an Ultra 1527 right now. I could barely tell that it sounded better than my old Roderich Paesold P130. |
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Joined:
December 2003
Posts: 13986
Location: Upper Left USA | Good to hear from you Peter!
While all of the Ovations are considered to be different flavors of ice cream, let me suggest that the 12 strings are more like sundaes. Yes, they are different and require a different approach, discipline and technique. I have been using my 12 string for rythym in a multi piece band and it has been educational.
There are some that can take the 12 to a lead or solo level but mostly it is a study in rythym support and choral voicings.
I would suggest you start with a Pacemaker since they are affordable and available. After that you can judge which direction to go with it.
Ask your Wife if she would be happy with just one purse or set of shoes! ;) |
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Joined:
August 2003
Posts: 888
Location: Louisville, OH 44641 | Hi Peter:
I have 3 guitars and one of them is an Adamas 12 string. All three of my guitars sound very different from each other. This helps me maintain my interest in guitar. When I sit down to play for my enjoyment, I usually reach for my 12 string. It has a rich, bright and full sound I really enjoy. I'm not a musician per se, but I certainly love my 12 string.
As far as which one to buy, a Pacemaker is a good start because they're a great value. The only thing wrong with them is the name. You can usually find them displayed next to the walkers.
Jim |
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Joined:
July 2003
Posts: 1922
Location: Canton (Detroit), MI | Peter, I have an 1118 Glen Campbell slothead 12-string and an Adamas Melissa Etheridge 12-string, and was intending to get a 6751 Balladeer when I found a deal on the ME.
If you can find a 1618 or a Pacemaker locally that you can play and check out before you can buy, then maybe that is a good option, they do sound good. DO NOT, repeat, DO NOT buy one from someone on eBay. These older 12-string guitars have a tendency to get a neck twist from the added string tension, and sellers are not always straight (no pun intended) about it. My 1118 GC has it. It played OK after some adjustment, but it will need a neck reset at some point, it isn't a matter of IF, only WHEN.
Otherwise, I'd suggest going for the 6751 Balladeer. It sounds and plays very good, you won't be sorry. I play new ones at my local Guitar Center and I am always amazed at how good they sound.
Roger |
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Joined:
April 2004
Posts: 13303
Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | PEter, which of the 3 do you like best....the one you reach for first.
Also how do you compare the ME to 6751?
Stephen |
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Joined:
July 2003
Posts: 1922
Location: Canton (Detroit), MI | I'm confused....it's not Peter that has the ME, it's me.
Anyway, the ME 12-string has a more even tone than the 6751. I wouldn't say that it is "superior" or "better". The 6751 would actually be better for folk/trad, in my opinion. The ME's forte is that has a sweet, smooth sound, with the ability to get "rowdy" when needed(ME sure does with it).
I don't have a 6751, I can't justify having three 12-strings. Of the two I have, the 1118 GC and the Adamas ME, it depends what I want. The 1118 has a more "woody" sound, the ME a smoother sound. If I needed to be plugged in, it has to be the ME, the GC is an acoustic only.
From my experience, the 6751 Balladeer does not sound all that dissimilar to my GC 12-string. The ME is a different animal.
If I were facing Peter's choice; if I could not find an old 12-string slothead locally so that I could play it and make sure it is sound, I'd get a 6751 Balladeer and not look back. He won't be sorry.
Roger |
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Joined:
February 2004
Posts: 2487
| YEP What these guy's said.
My only suggestion would be to actually make sure you try different models yourself, sound is a personal preference.
I have a wonderful older Adamas 12 that I have not found an equal to for sound quality yet. I have tried other Adamas 12's and although they are all fantastic they do sound different. So I am sure you will find this in many of the ovation madels. Enjoy! and good luck on your second "O"
Randy |
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Joined:
March 2002
Posts: 1380
Location: Central Oregon | I got my Pacemaker off Ebay for $275. UPS beat up the case & added a few surface cracks. I got my money back & kept the guitar. Great deal! Great guitar!
Btw, I'm with stellarjim, the name sucks donkey balls. I usually just call mine an 1115. |
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Joined:
December 2003
Posts: 13986
Location: Upper Left USA | Nils,
True the name Pacemaker has taken on more meaning as we advance in age and technical accesories. Who's Spouse can say no when ask for permission to get a new pacemaker? |
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Your preference in a 12 string.
