Thu Jun 09, 2011 1:04 pm
Willem- I am pretty familiar with these guitars. They were originally made in Tumalo, Oregon, my homestate, about 2-1/2 hours SE of here, by two guys who used to work for Taylor Guitars. They are now made in a beautiful new plant in Bend, Oregon just a few minutes from their old shop.
Breedlove made their mark on the guitar making business using exotic woods and avant-garde shapes. They have always been extremely well made.
Because I live close and have been to Tumalo and Bend many times, I've had the opportunity to play them alot.
My bottom line opinion is they are beautiful guitars but they sound dead to me. Every one has sounded dead. I also don't like the shape of the neck which is not like Taylor or Larrivee. And they use a really narrow neck which is hard for me to play with my big hands.
I have always felt that Breedlove has placed more emphasis on beauty than sound. I have had several opportunities to buy one at a real discount and I passed every time.
Remember that I have played Taylor for the last 20 years so my ear is probably tuned to that crystal clear, sparkling sound. All other guitars, including Martins which sound very neutral to me, seem somewhat dull. Even my Larrivee doesn't pack the punch of a Taylor.
So I would really recommend you play the guitar you want to buy first (don't special order it) and see if you like the sound. You will love the look. These are expensive guitars due to the wood and construction and I believe they sould much better for the price.
Good luck my friend and let us know what you decide to do! :cheer:
p.s. Apologies to any Breedlove owners. I'm not knocking the guitar. They are beautiful and popular. But if a TG member wants an honest opinion I feel strongly that TG should be the place to go for candid equipment reviews.