UK guitarists - Want a great acoustic? Give these a look.........
I've just been out to satisfy my latest gear lust and was looking for a decentish (i.e. better than my present) acoustic guitar. I set myself a budget of up to £1000 but obviously looking for the best value I can find.
First port of call was my local guitar and bass centre on my way to Norwich. I have a personal policy of trying guitars without being aware of the price tag if possible so I don't get pre-conceived ideas. Then I either die of shock or am pleasantly surprised once I've narrowed it down a bit but that's the way I like to try so with that in mind I got the store owner fetching guitars for me. He actually suggested one of these "Nineboys" and said don't be put off by the name, just try them.
The first one was
one of these and the second
this one. I tried several other guitars from Takamine & Fender in the same place and one other Nineboys that I did happen to see the price tag of prior to playing. It was £329 and I thought that it wouldn't be anywhere near the previous two (which I was assuming were around the £1000 mark simply because of sound and play ability) but was pleasantly surprised when I tried it as it wasn't too far away from either of the first two.
I had my choice down to one of the first two I tried, nothing else he had came close and when he eventually told me the price was £429 including hard case I had to check he was sure. He assured me I wouldn't find anything under £1000 that came close (as a salesman does) but off I went to look anyway.
To cut a long story short I ended up trailing round Norwich for the next 4 hours trying guitar after guitar and the only thing that came close to them sound wise anywhere near my budget price was a Martin at £1199 but it didn't feel as nice to play as either of the "Nineboys". At that point I made my mind up and went back to my first port of call and bought the first guitar I tried at £429. I really can't believe how good the thing is. One other dealer was telling me he thought they were rebadged Staggs or something but I buy on what I find and feel not opinions, plus there was possibly a hint of sour grapes as I was raving about the two earlier guitars still.
Point of the post is, if you're looking for a great acoustic at a knock down price try one of the "Nineboys", I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. Crap name but a fantastic guitar. I'm well chuffed..
Hopefully it'll be putting in an appearance on one of my acoustic song recordings soon.