Blindfolded Guitar Test - Can I Guess the Price?

[@brandonacker]

FAQ -"You're still wearing glasses...Can you see?" I was definitely blind! We put duct tape to cover the eye holes and I couldn't see anything. It was Marshall's idea to leave my glasses on as a joke. So it was purely because it was funny to us. All professional musicians can play blindfolded. I have over 10,000 hours of muscle memory. -"In round 2, isn't it unfair that the second guitar wasn't setup properly?" This was a clever curveball by Marshall. I think it actually made an excellent point about the importance of playability. The best guitar with a bad setup, is not enjoyable to play. -"What is the song at 32:55?" kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4nadH6QpcR2kKc -"A $900 guitar is not a beginner instrument!" While that is true for electric guitars and steel string acoustics, the classical world is different. For example, a beginner violin can cost up to $1,000. Classical guitars are similar. Beginner instruments can be between 200-900. Professional classical guitars start around 3-4k on average. -"No guitar is worth $50,000. The wood and labor don't cost that much." Guitars in this price range generally have historical significance and are no longer being made. They aren't priced based on the woods and labor alone. For example, if a famous luthier (guitar builder) is now deceased and only made a limited number of instruments, those are now much more valuable. -"Since you picked the $300 guitar over the $9,000, doesn't that prove that price doesn't matter?" No, I don't think so. Round two revealed that even the best guitar with an unplayable setup is not enjoyable to play. This is why I picked the $300 guitar. Had they both been setup well, I think there would have been no contest. The sound of the 2nd was so much more sophisticated and resonant. What was amazing is that I was so distracted by the feel that I couldn't even enjoy the sound! -"Are you using the same strings?" All of the strings are similar enough to not make an important impact on the comparison. The exact brand matters less than the tension and material. -"Why did you touch the headstock? You shouldn't have felt the instruments since they give away the price." I don't think feeling the wood or materials does give away the price, actually. Most classical guitars have identical headstocks. Instead, Marshall told me he had some curveballs planned and I was feeling to see if it was a normal classical guitar or something strange like the acoustic/electric or the Flamenco guitar with a golpeador. If there is something to be learned about feeling the grains or quality of the tuners, it is lost on me haha.

[@KateCarew]

I’ve never seen any of your videos, you picked up the Frederich guitar and I thought, wow, okay, he’s AMAZING. Like you said in the video, very warm and ROUND. I figured you were a professional and could make a shoebox with rubber bands sound good. Then number two, the Hill…and it’s still evident you are VERY talented, but even in the video, without feeling it or being IN the room detecting timbre and resonance I could tell (and I’m not a guitarist) that the first one was superior. I play piano, violin, cello and harp (de facto) and I’ve desperately yearned to play guitar but I can’t. I can’t get comfortable frankly because my chest size. It’s not mechanically comfortable. My arms can’t compensate for the distance required to accommodate my chest. Wondering if you have any advice? I mean…this isn’t something I’ve ever been comfortable discussing and my friends from the music world who play guitar are men. They don’t get it and it becomes a joke. They say I have stumps or T Rex arms, or that I’m just being “girly”. I have tried wearing double sports bras to squish things down but I’m talking inches of space. About 5-6 inches between my chest and the guitar body. I have tried some awkward poses but seeings you’re a pro…wondered if you had any tips? Since we aren’t friends you A) won’t make a joke and B) I’m not embarrassed to discuss the issue. In real life I’m very VERY shy (why I love cello…can hide behind it) and I haven’t met a busty woman who plays guitar well…ever. Have you ever noticed that? It’s sad, I feel grief, I love classical guitar and flamenco, I yearn to play but I can’t get comfortable or properly postured.

[@oggamer735]

@@KateCarew Kate, as a guitarist who happens to have a friend who is busty. She told me that she started with electric guitar for that reason alone, she bought fender stratocaster as her first guitar because of the shape. When you have learn how to play you dont have to see what you play and it will be much easier to play with Classical guitar after that. I would say that you should go to some shop and try with different shapes and models which feels the best for you. Those shop sellers are pros in these kind of situations and they could help you pick the right kind of guitar.

[@Leeummm83]

Agreed, comparing the wood and labor cost is similar to weighing the cost of time and paint for a piece of art.

[@HAYDS510]

It seemed like you were in favour of the $300 Yammy till the blindfold came off and the price and make were revealed. It's hard not to perceive the setup argument as a bit of a moved goal-post to save face or confirm a price-value bias for all things fancy. However I have no doubt you know your stuff, and that was some ace playing. Good content fellas.

[@AlexG-rc3oq]

@@KateCarew This is interesting to me, and I feel obligated to give what advice I can here. Right off the get go I will admit I have limited experience with classical guitars, but find the body shape to be same as steel stringed guitars, so here goes. I would suggest trying some 00, or 000 Martin's, they have a very full volume body and a more slender width. Also Ovation makes several lines that have a sloped back of the body, which creates a ton of room for larger individuals, and I have played some very beautiful sounding Ovations. A key thing here I would say is when sitting, don't be afraid to place yourself on top of the guitar body, instead of behind it, and use the curvature to your advantage. That being said, standing with a strap may just give you the room you need to feel comfortable in any situation. As I am a big Martin fan, I will also suggest Grand Auditorium and Grand Concert body styles, they come very close to a Dreadnought sound, with a more slender form. Either way good luck! And asking questions is how you get answers right? Keep asking. Last minute edit: Perhaps look at some other female guitarists, like Dolly Parton, to see how they handle a guitar.

[@MarshallBrune]

This was so much fun! Thanks for coming over!

[@brandonacker]

You are the man, Marshall!

[@M4ve12ick0]

Love when you're featured on Brandon and Rob's channels Marshall!

[@joshua2400]

Jesus Christ the sovereign God loves you my friends :" )

[@disco4535]

Thank you so much for this Marshall! Really enjoyed it.

[@kkenji61]

Love seeing you in more stuff!

[@Bastikovski99]

Never underestimate a $300 Yamaha

[@c5back9]

So true. Yamaha sells millions of guitars for a reason, and it’s not just because of price because there are dozens and dozens of $300 - $600 guitars out there to pick from.

[@investingingeorgia8853]

I just upgraded from a $300 Yamaha. To another $300 Yamaha.

[@davidemoreo8276]

Completely agree. And such a coincidence...the 300USD has been more than perfectly set up...ahahaha...anyway if a top performer like Brandon cannot find the difference between a 300USD guitar and one wich costs 30 (thirthy) times more, who can? From this perspective, the 9k USD guitar is then useless with respect to its price, because the only value is priceless and is on Brandon and his ability to perfectly play it. My two cents.

[@Bastikovski99]

@@investingingeorgia8853 My next upgrade will be to a $5000 Yamaha FZ1!

[@gts2550]

Yamaha instruments always feel like they punch way above their pay grade; I tried their guitars, pianos and saxophones and they all felt immediately much more comfortable compared to most alternatives, even way more expensive ones. It's commendable they manage to do that across all the instruments they make. Can't blame him for getting that one wrong.

[@pathologicaldoubt]

The 2nd round was fascinating. Handing Brandon a more expensive guitar that was just picking up dust and not set up while giving him the worn in, nicely set up cheapo was such a fun confounder

[@dpwellman]

Exactly. Last time I bought a guitar I went for a used Seagull S6 (Original) over any of the models avail for sale, including a new S6

[@deltalima6703]

"I was going to say that other one had better sound...". Mmm hmmm, sure you were... lol

[@InGrindWeCrust2010]

How do you set up a nylon string guitar? Do you actually have to file the saddles and nut?

[@brandonacker]

@@InGrindWeCrust2010 Yes, the easiest thing to do is change the height of the nut and saddle. This can mean making them higher or lower. It can also involve reshaping the slots in which the strings sit at the nut. There are also more drastic ways to change the action that include: Changing the height of the frets, re-planing the neck, or even a full neck reset.

[@michaelwright2986]

And so, I think, it's not really a $300 guitar: it's $300 plus whatever the price is for all the set up by an excellent luthier.

[@MarkMatthewsNJ]

"blindfolded youre better than 50% of the guitarist that come in here". I know you were trying to compliment but come on man.. that was better than 90% of the people visiting!

[@steffilomi9328]

That's to be expected. But does it mean the luthier have less respect for ordinary people or beginners? Hope not.

[@viviayv]

Videos with you and Marshall are one of the few things I wholeheartedly look forward to. I just love the atmosphere y'all both exude.

[@levous2]

I just love both of you. Two grown men who have mastered their craft and retained a pure, uncompromised, childlike wonderful joy. Please keep up the shares

[@jessepeyton8302]

so freaking cool

[@TheChocolateChakra]

A dolt hood is a cult ural scam.

[@zetsun0]

Marshall is a super nice sport to be in these episodes, I feel like he really enjoys doing these type of videos with you

[@brandonacker]

Very true! He's a great sport and we always have fun making these

[@MarshallBrune]

We both have a ton of fun! I always enjoyed spending time with Brandon, even before he was KZbin famous!

[@olewetdog6254]

Definitely true. You should do more of these. More blindfold challenges and the works. You should compare some that are closer in price as well.

[@coltoncarey7042]

I feel like anyone would be a good sport in the presence of the angel that is Brandon Acker.

[@illukka]

this makes the videos entertaining to watch, and the humor too..

[@aqueelkadri8371]

My favorite thing about this was the admiration the luthier had in his eyes watching the instruments being played so beautifully. I shared the same admiration in my eyes too Mr. Brune. And your work is fantastic as well

[@sivertsolheim366]

I am no guitar guy and have barely even played guitar, but i knew as soon as he started playing the first guitar in round 1 that that was an expensive guitar. The sound is so complex and soothing.

[@cervantesthenilbog7513]

Normally, I would think these reactions were put upon and previously contrived -to push sales specifically(not that it isn't to some extent) , but Brandon consistently only ever comes across as nothing short of a genuinely stand up dude. It's nice knowing that the function of this KZbin video was predominantly for the experiment at hand, no pun intended, and that everything else after that fact is merely ancillary. Love the content, love the playing, love the wisdom. Thank you homie.

[@brandonacker]

I really appreciate what you said. Thank you! I will try to live up to your words.

[@cervantesthenilbog7513]

@@brandonacker on a platform flooded with superficial/disingenuous grifters, you're a diamond in the rough; you wear your authenticity like a heart on a sleeve. You're not an -yet another, unethically sourced blood diamond, if you will, solely bent on capitalizing at any and all costs. Your love and dedication for this craft supersedes any of those would be negative hypothetical connotations/implications by virtue of that very same love and dedication that is always ever present. You do this because it speaks to you to do so, first and foremost. You're etiquette is never pretentious or condescending, but rather a nod towards an individual with a disciplinarian's respect for technique and the like. As much as I hate to speak on my own virtues or skill (Mainly because I don't ever want to get lost in the bias ego that often comes with doing so. I mean, who am I to say anyways), I am an amazing judge of character. I know that on and off camera you're the same positive influence to those closest to you, and I'm sure they're honored to call you family or friend. I can only imagine how fun it would be to jam. On a personal side note, I really enjoyed that first "reveal" video you did with your twin brother. You guys have great chemistry similar to Les Twins has in their respected field (dance). You'll never fall short of living up to any of these words, cause you'll always be you. Tbh, I can be a bit of a cynical troll on social media, but every now and then I am compelled to reach out in sincerity. That whole real recognizing real idiom comes to mind. Thanks for responding, I didn't expect that at all. But again, thanks for everything else. Be easy homie.

[@whitezombieiniraq]

The fact that you can nail these pieces completely blindfolded while simultaneously analyzing every aspect of the guitar you are playing is phenomenal.

[@GardenGuy1942]

You play a guitar with your FINGERS, not your eyes.

[@acabassist4904]

Muscle memories

[@Frostvul]

​@GardenGuy1943 doesn't change what he doing is impressive 😂

[@account-pi3nj]

​@@GardenGuy1942God Bless You

[@titan9404]

​@@GardenGuy1942bruh seeing the fret board and playing it is super easy compared to playing it without being able to see the guitar. Its like writing but you cant see what you are writing, you need muscle memory

[@yogxoth1959]

The fact that you can play this well while blindfolded is mind blowing. Simply amazing.

[@GardenGuy1942]

Please, don’t encourage him.

[@termica7349]

​@@GardenGuy1942 why dude? there´s a lot of people that doesn´t play good enough, this man plays very well and u know it, just enjoy the ride lo.

[@pnut3844able]

Honestly anyone that's played for awhile can. I used to lay in my bed with the lights off and practice

[@lao-ce8982]

Actually that’s the easiest part imo. If you can play a song confidently, you can play it blindfolded too.

[@oscargill423]

Muscle memory, baby

[@EverthingWithJandA]

The Richard Brune guitar gave me chills everytime it was played. Must be incredible in person. what a beautiful guitar.

[@rickdg]

I'd just like to point out that Recuerdos de Alhambra is actually a difficult piece, but Brandon makes it seem really easy. Please carry on.

[@bobwilkinsonguitar6142]

That tremelo

[@neurosin]

while literally blindfolded at that!

[@MeantToLive725]

@@neurosin blindfolded on a brand new to him guitar that he has literally zero reference or perspective on. absolutely wild.

[@BrainyCrafter]

@@bobwilkinsonguitar6142 yesss, Brandon always produces some of the smoothest tremolo

[@bullucsterteth7530]

I'm watching this just a short distance from the Alhambra, in Granada.

[@aprilkarcz8703]

The Ashokan Farewell from the Ken Burns documentaries is so beautiful. Wow this was great to hear the experts comment on each guitar. Makes me want to learn. I’m a choir singer, have never played.

[@TheEternalElir]

I wish this was a 3 hour video. Please make this a series 🥺

[@brandonacker]

Good news: this is only part one of a series of three videos!

[@grantcarroll4389]

Please keep trying videos in a similar style. The genuine test of your skills, your explanations, it’s all wonderful

[@KellyPruett]

I don't even play guitar and stumbled onto this video and have been mesmerized the entire time. It's not only great to see experts have to step back and use senses a bit differently but also amazing play as well by Brandon made this a joy to listen to. Kudos to you both, I'm in for the next part!

[@thesetzers8952]

That first guitar sounded soooo good. I can only imagine what it sounds like in person, but the mic translated it well enough to show a vast sound quality gap to it's rival, and my personal favorite of them all.

[@tomclanys]

Yeah it is just so warm and big in sound, it would be great for mellow songs

[@Drillbox_1989]

Bro it costs 50 grand 💀

[@XIIchiron78]

The Richard Brune in round #4 might be my favorite acoustic sound of all time, it's almost like each string is its own harmony

[@incumbentvinyl9291]

Romantic.

[@drawwithbeektor6329]

I’d love to see a video like the electric players do. Where you go into a guitar store and find the best classical guitar for $500 and $1,000. ☺️

[@erebus79]

that would be great

[@johncarlino7101]

I've had the same thought, but you run into the problem of setup. It would be really hard to judge the guitars until they get a proper setup, which they all desperately need imo

[@nicky_deees]

they do this on Anderton's TV

[@zxbc1]

That's a great idea actually. I'm a electric guitar player of 20 years but recently wanting to get into classical guitar, and I am wondering what I should look for in an entry level guitar of about that price range too. It'd be great consumer advice!

[@lavryk]

I have seen some, and basically it was always showing how blind test is really the way to assess the sound, removing the prejudice of price tag.

[@junior10kdutch]

I've never played a classical guitar, yet I just watched the full 37 minutes of this video. Great content, very entertaining, and I love your enthusiasm for the instruments and craftsmanship!

[@bloodsports94]

I used to play electric and steel string and now... I mostly just play classical . It's so much more fun for me.

[@Dave1507]

That's the thing, imho, if the people in the video are passionate about it, it almost doesn't matter what the topic is, it's gonna be an engaging and enjoyable video to watch.

[@Randyball711]

Me blindfolded: Oh nice I hit the A note on the G string on third try Brandon blindfolded: flawless execution of the third movement of La Catedral

[@FugitConsultingLLC]

I love all of these videos you two make. Mesmerizing really. Thank you Brandon and Marshall both for showing us so much of the wizard behind the curtain in classical guitar!

[@wilkbor]

This was a lot of fun to watch. I really enjoyed how Brandon can play virtually any stringed instrument blindfolded and without necessarily knowing in advance what he will be given. Thanks for the great video.

[@Sajatzsiraf]

I am not a musician, never was never will be... but I appreciate this tremendously... the joy you get out of this and share with us is completely out there. :) cheers, and we need more!

[@Me_ThatsWho]

This was the best classical guitar demonstration I've ever seen. If Brandon, with his great ear (and hair), cannot always discern the difference, there is hope for us mere mortals :)

[@CHS10901]

You can't say enough about setup, and that adds to the price of the guitar. I am by no means a professional luthier, but I assembled a 335 style hollow body from a kit. The kit wasn't very good because the scale was off, so I actually had to shorten the neck a few millimeters before gluing it all up. Once everything was all assembled, I spent probably 6-8 hours setting it up by sanding the frets to get everything nice and level, setting the nut and bridge height so the and the tension rod so the action was prefect. I would guess a professional could do it a lot faster than I could, but if you are paying $100 an hour shop rate to set it up, you doubled the price of the $300 Yamaha with the setup. Great video, I can't imagine playing blindfolded on different scale lengths.

[@johncarlino7101]

Lmao, it's funny when you don't need to hear the guitar to know it's worth more than $20,000! I've always wanted to hear a Brunè 25th anniversary and it didn't disappoint. That's a dream guitar for sure. The yamaha is a testament to the importance of setup. Production guitars under $1,000 are an amazing value when setup properly, and yamaha is the top of the mountain for production guitars.

[@Xi_Vi]

this video is so fun to watch. both have good vibes that I can’t stop smiling throughout the video.

[@brandonacker]

Thanks for watching! I'm glad you enjoyed it :)

[@Tonedog88]

I've been playing Yamahas (guitars, synthesizers, and other things) since 1972. You just backed up everything I've known about them since then, a truly amazing music company. Their vision is to get music out to the world, and they do! Like the comparisons being so varied (the Godin and the Scherzer). Great video and done very well. Thanks!

[@zosoart]

This video was just exquisite. The passion and depth of knowledge from both men is beautiful to bear witness to!

[@hueholleran]

Captivating, one of the most enjoyable KZbin videos I've ever seen.

[@brandonacker]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@maranathashalom9402]

Thanks so much for including the song titles. Loved this video. You guys are so enjoyable! Have a blast!

[@o.aldenproductions.9858]

Wow!! the first guitar gave me goosebumps..and it must sound heavenly live.😍 I believe that guitar playing live heals troubled minds 💕

[@SamuelMooreFlamencoMusic]

Love the video Brandon! By the way, the $300 flamenco Yamaha you played is a pretty respected budget instrument amongst flamenco players. As you rightly observed in the video, they tend to be super easy to play (especially if they've been set up properly) and considering the price, they pack a pretty big punch + have a decent flamenco sound. In short, considering they're mass produced instruments, overall they are a fairly good option for flamenco students who want a budget instrument. Though I mostly take my hand made instruments on the road, I do also have the exact Yamaha model you played as a travel instrument (for holidays and such like). Have a great day and see you soon my friend!

[@brandonacker]

Amazing! I'm glad to know it wasn't just me haha. Cheers, my friend!

[@atomlow]

What’s the model number of the Yamaha? Yamaha CG172SF?

[@susanyoung1600]

@@atomlow Yes. I have the same one and I'm so pleased with it. I read a lot of reviews before I decided and most of them read like "Wow. This is a learner guitar? Not bad for less than $400." I have more respect for Yamaha than ever.

[@jeffarab4947]

Yamaha makes a good flamenco

[@DynamicRockers]

@@atomlow All Yamaha guitar from the CG line sound and play great. The CG are 52mm nut width, thinner neck and with lower action and thinner walls. You pick the one you prefer with cedar or spruce top, and nato or better neck/sides woods. It's probably the Yamaha CG182SF because it's the only Yamaha with a clear pickguard but it's 399$ because of inflation :)

[@TWaveform]

It’s always a joy hearing Brandon play, even in such an informal setup. What a gifted guitarist!

[@yiuqwfj]

Guitarists are always so chill, I love that air about them.

[@saarthakchowdhury1475]

The fact that he can do that level of playing with his eyes closed is unbelievable

[@Talon18136]

You don’t need to see to play or learn to play and instrument

[@Bdub1999]

@@Talon18136 Well duh... It's much harder and much more impressive

[@InDisskyS131]

Most guitarists don’t look at the guitar when they play. But yeah, he’s good.

[@rampagetv]

He's definitely really good, but once you get to know your instrument playing blind isn't harder, in fact you look at everything BUT your instrument or, just close your eyes and get really into it. Also as Jonathan mentioned, you don't need to see to play an instrument. Lots of blind musicians out there.

[@oPosiidon2800]

After a while once the muscle memory will kick in once you close your eyes or can't see shit. I remembering purposefully putting on a blindfold to learn the guitar neck better like 5 months into learning. Now 7 years in

[@TRPLD]

Great video. My great-grandmother actually was quite proficient in playing the Zither (I'm German), I still remember being 5 years old on Christmas, sitting in my great-grandmothers living room and listening to her play Christmas songs!

[@scottboyer8450]

I don't even play guitar, and this was super entertaining. I love listening to Brandon play these amazing instruments.

[@tadamoriyagi8265]

Yes. I have a Yamaha Flamenco guitar in that price range, and experienced guitarists have told me it plays comparable to a multi-thousand dollar guitar. Sometimes you get a good deal.

[@joalco3]

Loved the video. You both are very relaxed and relatable in this video. One of my favorite of yours.

[@sal35plus]

Never thought I would sit through 30+ minutes of blind folded guitar playing but I did. I'll have to sub now and hear you play without being blind folded. Amazing job and fun video to watch. You are a master of your craft as noted by your keen ability to play all these guitars.

[@horai1]

I cannot express just how much fun this video was to watch. Many thanks Brandon.

[@tonytopanga6407]

I have never played guitar and thought I'd quickly skip through this video but I watched all 37 minutes of it. Beautiful instruments and superb playing!

[@bootlebeats6331]

Enjoyable and informative! Very different than the old days. (60's and 70's and guessing the 50's was worst for knowing how to find an appropriate guitar) Great thing you guys are doing. :)

[@spreklfreks]

Love the video! Outstanding skills, as Marshal said you play better blindfolded than the majority who aren't. Can't thank you enough for putting it together. Great to see Marshal and his shop and I really look forward to the next two videos!

[@tbhv]

@22:53 I feel like I am in a weird alt reality where "Eyes Wide Shut" is actually just abut playing different guitars blindfolded lol

[@KingDragon6815]

This video (and the part 2)are actually great! Frankly, I didn't expect this to be that fun to watch, but you two make it extremely interesting!

[@brandonacker]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@xugefu]

Thanks!

[@diazemap]

That was so much fun on so many levels, thanks. I'd love to see Brandon guess those price tags, or see him compare two guitars costing exactly the same, or just as many curveballs thrown at him as possible. The value is always in the eye of the beholder (to follow up on Marshall's vision joke).

[@patrickdunavan9113]

Thank you. You helped me decide to purchase a Yamaha CG172sf from some other brand flamencos...based somewhat on how you made it sing so nicely while playing "Recuerdos..."....showing its versitility in playing both classical and flamenco. The playability was the difference maker(and, of course, the low price.) Seems like a great value for the money. Really like your videos with Brandon. Man you guys REALLY know your stuff. And I really appreciate you both sharing your knowledge without any hint of being "stuff shirt" about it.

[@Knifey_ZA]

Brandon I honestly wish you a long, happy and prosperous life. You're an absolute Gem with such an honest personality. I love your videos and this was such a treat. So great to see Marshall throw you off and show you such wonderful intruments!

[@JaysonTuntland]

Great video. The blindfold helps to keeps our ears honest. Personal favorite was his dad's 25/25 guitar. Awesome tone.

[@luckylikey9280]

I've done a similar experiment when I got my new guitar. I played through a variety of classical guitars ranging from 1200 to 10000$, without knowing the actual prices. Finally I ended up getting a Torres alike rebuild for around 2200$, mostly because the lightweight build really promoted a crude and very resonant sound. Very much unmet by many of the more expensive guitars. However I noticed, that Guitars within the price range of 7000 - 10000$ started to have a whole other presence and clarity within their sound. Very much compareable how a piano sounds different from a wing. However besides not being affordable for me, It really struck me as too much for my capability. I still prefere the more simple and crude, yet still very lovely and a little romantic sound of my milestones of music "la espagna". It's fascinating how I can time and time again fall in love with its sound and find new little facettes about it.

[@brandonacker]

I also love the charm of Torres guitars. I wouldn't say there is anything crude about them though. The original 1888 Torres I played was more beautiful and well built, for my taste, than any modern guitar I've played. The trend that is volume and so guitars are overbuilt to handle absurd amounts of tension.

[@luckylikey9280]

@@brandonacker I couldn't say that I ever played a real torres, but If at all comparable, mine gives a glimpse of what it what might sound like. Upon looking up "crude" again, I can see why you disagree. Let's try again :) Whenever I pick up this guitar, It inspires me to let go of emotional tension and just listen to the intimacy and romance of the timbre. Especially when stringed with historical gut strings I feel even more connected to the roots of this music and the "heroes" that composed all these fantastic pieces.

[@tch0s3n0ne]

When an instrument is crafted by a master to be played by a master, the trust in each is incomparable. I couldn't imagine passing my fathers 25/25 LE $25k guitar to a blindfolded person.. when Brandon knocked the bottom of it my heart skipped a beat but Marshall just couldn't wait to hear his father's guitar played by someone worthy. This was incredible, thank you both for sharing.

[@ahis3233]

Can you give me the timestamp please

[@emilithium1]

​@@ahis323321:49 the first instrument in Round #4

[@Drsavation]

its just a wood thing that makes sound like any other guitar get over it

[@tch0s3n0ne]

@@Drsavation just a random youtube account that comments like any other random internet account get over it

[@notdumbrella6399]

@@Drsavation you must be fun at parties

[@joemusicman64]

The mask was absolutely hilarious. Especially with the glasses. But while very humorous, this content was so very interesting. Loved the blind comparison. And watching Brandon pull off these tough compositions blind folded was very impressive. Way better than most guitarists that can see. Agree with Marshal on that point. Glad I watched this. I mean just to listen to the compositions alone are worth it. Then layer on all the other cool things you guys did. Bravo.

[@rey5597]

Oh my gosh this was such a joy to watch! I could watch these types of videos all day lol

[@hamsterhamstermann1907]

Love the atmosphere with you and Marshall. Especially because Marshall is just such a good bro. He's so calm and yet so excited about your Playaction and the guitars. Great guy. Also Brandon is just godlike man. It's incredible how well he can play. He's one of the reasons why I stared to play guitar. Few weeks ago.

[@dwanehoughtaling419]

Great video. I don't normally watch music videos but the concept here drew me in. I truly enjoyed watching and listening to this video. Thanks.

[@TheRealChetManley]

I play electric but I found this very interesting and entertaining. You’re an amazing player. I love the sound and the classical music.

[@dans_Learning_Curve]

Our 14 year old daughter started playing guitar in March of 2022. I taught her the little I know. She showed interest. We started he with lessons with our minister of music at church. She played in her first worship team the last Sunday of January! I enjoyed every minute of this video! I'm going to show it to her and see where it takes her!

[@brandonacker]

Want to learn how to play Baroque music well on guitar? 🎸 Join me LIVE on Zoom on January 21st! Arpeggiato.com/events

[@myoptik3x103]

What a fun video! As an aside that piece that was used for the Ken Burns Civil War film never fails to bring tears to my eyes, espy when it is played so beautifully.

[@coaststrings]

This was a useful video and Round 2 would certainly be educational for your viewers. I think another video that would be very helpful would be to have rounds with more guitars in the =

[@crobinso2010]

Completely agree. Although $300 vs $9000 is fun, it isn't as useful.

[@Roquea.207]

I Thank your videos tremendously Brandon ! Thanks to you I ended up buying my $2000 Francisco Navarro classical concert and not just a cordoba C-5,7,10 or C-whatever (due respect to cordoba )even though didn’t think to spend that much in an instrument Well playability was the real deal !! The only one,exquisite sound easy for my left hand Now I can feel the vibration in my chest,hands and soul makes me happy and makes me grab the guitar every day at least to play 10 min after I relax from work My old hard action one made me have her forsaken in the corner forever Playability is THE REAL DEAL PEOPLE

[@sjcajw7]

It's awesome to see Batman play Chopin!

[@ToddMelanson]

First of all, your playing in unbelievably beautiful. The guitar comparisons come in second. Fantastic. Thank you,

[@finalsphereps]

They both seem like such cool and chill dudes to hang with

[@timmasonguitar]

Totally agree about playability. I took my Grade 8 on a Ramirez III 664mm scale 1A which I owned at the time and while it sounded fantastic, boy was it hard to play. I now play a standard Raimundo 180 concert which I've set up to be as playable as any guitar I've ever played and I love it.

[@doodft5226]

Why does Brandon look like he’s building up an immunity to iocane powder with the mask on

[@usmctattooboy]

This was such an amazing video loved it

[@MultiFisherofmen]

Love seeing Marshall in the videos. Such a great guy

[@MixolydianMode]

Very interesting video, looking forward to the next one.

[@stevenqirkle]

It was a little awkward that Brandon guessed the $25,000 Richard Brune guitar was $8,000, and he didn’t like the Marshall Brune guitar at first. But I appreciate the honesty of this video and how Marshall was willing to put himself out there like that. And at the end of the day they were both awesome guitars. I think the first guitar (and most expensive of them all) was my favorite because of its rich low end.

[@DavidHilley]

It's true he was way under on the price ($8k vs $25k), but it seems like a lot of the factors that increased the price wouldn't be detectable in a blind audition. A lot of the expense was probably from decorative elements due to it being a special anniversary piece: the expensive rosewood back, the elaborate engraving, etc.

[@ianprescott7924]

Just goes to show how much of a scam the high end instrument market is

[@terranbricklin]

​@@ianprescott7924you pay for the work put in.

[@michaelwilliams5506]

​@@ianprescott7924not really... Investing in an instrument like the isn't only about the sound. It's the feel, the weight, the appearance, level of craftsmanship, finish work and extra little details.

[@ianprescott7924]

@@michaelwilliams5506 There’s nothing you can do with a $50k guitar that you can’t with a $5k guitar. I don’t think those little details are worth the price tag

[@geomod6850]

3:49 Brandon, we knew you would nail it, first take. You're so humble.

[@pomegranatepip2482]

I’m not a guitarist, but this was a lovely video, and very entertaining. Two men who are at the top of their field.

[@thebourquetorque]

Excellent video boys! You guys hit a home run with this idea. Very entertaining and professionally done across the board.

[@melissamusick8300]

Brandon dons the mask and becomes the new classical guitar hero: Sor-ro! (guitar nerd humor)

[@virginielafrench3921]

Yeah ! He looks like Batman 's friend when he wears the mask

[@JoshuaC923]

Always good to see Marshall! That went like five minutes, great video

[@cmcg5788]

Super entertaining! I really liked the tone of Marshall's guitar. It was mellow but full and had good sustain/resonance. My favorite was the 1860 Scherzer. I absolutely loved its tone and projection (at least as heard on my Macbook:>) I'm looking forward to the other videos!

[@leerobbo92]

I absolutely loved the demonstration of how setting the guitar up properly is crucial. Makes all the difference, and costs a fraction of the cost of a good one!

[@pankajjoshi2032]

Yamaha makes really great guitars : Acoustic, electrical, classical, flamenco.

[@sfperalta]

Just wonderful. The easy mastery without stuffiness. The musical passages just delightful. Excellent presentation!

[@tshepomatlheketlha8284]

I must admit that I did not expect to watch the whole video.😂 Brandon plays such amazing Chopin😢! I so want to be like him. I would love to play the guitar just like him, alongside my poetry. I’m literally in tears 😭

[@dogynator2795]

Watching this video as a e-guitar player is a great inspiration from the musical perspective and crazy experience from the price perspective :D

[@nickuhland7148]

I would love to hear you or Marshall talk more about the difference between a "played-in" guitar and one that is rarely played. Like, what actual physical changes occur to make a played-in guitar more playable even to a new person who has never held that instrument before?

[@ir-dan8524]

Aged and smoothened material is one thing

[@sabrinaevans8746]

I love these compare videos! So much fun to guess along with Brandon

[@paulstabin6233]

Loved hearing this. That first $50,000 Friedrich in the first pairing is probably the best classical I have heard. But the real lesson is that playability makes such a huge difference. Looking forward to hearing parts II and III. Of course even a $300 guitar sounds good when played that well. Not hard, even through a cell phone, to hear the differences. Great recording job!

[@mamamia5668]

I thought the richard brune was better :)

[@billeckelberry6502]

Learned a lot about music today! Excellent video. Keep up the amazing work! Thank you so much!!

[@bestmoviemoments7516]

I had a really really shit day at work and I came home feeling in an absolutely HORRIBLE mood. So moody and shitty. I watched this and it really calmed me down and I feel better now. Thank you both of you.

[@pacificule]

What a wonderful idea for a video! And so well done. Thank you for putting this together. Just wanted to say that I was already deeply enjoying this when you randomly thought to play Ashokan Farewell, which is what the quartet played when my bride walked out from behind the Redwoods and up to me at our wedding. I'm tearing up just writing this. Thank you for playing that song and blindsiding me with an emotional experience. From the first notes I was transported back to the best day of my life. Can't thank you enough. Wish I had half your talent with guitar. Beautifully done

[@brandonacker]

That was moving to read. Thank you!

[@pacificule]

@@brandonacker All thanks go to you. I play guitar and my wife plays piano but we've got nothing on you and your talent. Just glad I can watch your vids and learn some of what you have to offer. Brightest blessings to you & yours

[@aprilkarcz8703]

Great choice for wedding music. My husband and I married with the music from the Ken Burns National Parks series. We visited many parks while dating. Hearing the Ashokan Farewell felt similar. Great piece of music.

[@janosmaiden8219]

Don't know why I didn't know of you sooner but I saw you in Jared's shred collab. And damn you are a master at what you do!

[@EternalDeliriumCult]

This was probably the best video I've whatched on youtube. Thank you!

[@brandonacker]

Well that's wonderful to hear! Thanks it took me about 30 hours of editing haha

[@EternalDeliriumCult]

@@brandonacker It was well worth it 👍

[@CasperTheGhost64]

It's really spectacular how well you play blindfolded.

[@TRL_777]

I love this video because we can see you had a lot of fun. And I really enjoyed watching Brandon discover each guitar 😎😯

[@afromineable]

Fantastic instruments, absolutely killing skills of the guitarist and huge passion of an owner. What a great fun that was ❤️

[@Igornopolis]

Badass playing. Awesome content. Cheers

[@joeldezwaan1149]

The question really is, how can I setup my guitar like the $300 Yamaha? 🕵️‍♂️ I'd give a lot to know Marshall's tricks of the trade

[@brandonacker]

That is indeed the right question! Regardless of what you play, it is essential that you take your instrument to a good luthier to make sure it is optimized for easy playing :)

[@xxoffmypantsxx]

A guitar technician in Indonesia have a channel called "filosofi gitar" where he shares a lot of things regarding tuning and setting up a guitar. They're in Indonesian and his skills probably nowhere near Marshall, but it could give you an image of how does guitar setting works. Maybe you'd like to check him out >>> filosofigitar5222

[@vitalilisau6181]

Flamenco guitars are made for easy play as their strings are much closer to the body.