D'Angelico Excel SS Tour - A small bodied semi hollow rock n' roll machine - New headstock design?

At Sweetwater: imp.i114863.net/LPbz7j
More info at D'Angelico: dangelicoguitars.com/guitars/...
D'Angelico sent me their Excel SS Tour so I gave it a run-through and documented everything that stuck out to me. In then end its clear that I like this guitar alot, It sounds great, the size if comfortable for me and I love the look of the more subdued headstock. BUT WHAT DO YOU THINK? tell me in the comments.
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[@stevenpipes1555]

Im with you, i almost never play a particular song. I let my mind wander and i play whatever comes out. Ive never been able to meditate until i realized that when im playing my mind is completely clear. Now i meditate almost every night for at least an hour before bed, with my guitar in my hands!

[@bldallas]

Me, too! In fact, it’s gotten to the point, I’ve forgotten how to play most of the songs I’ve previously learned.

[@stevenpipes1555]

@@bldallas Yep. I have to do some serious thinking to recall most of them, yet, im playing every day! Lol!

[@bldallas]

@@stevenpipes1555 Funny. I created an Amazon Music “playlist” that only include songs I know, or at least knew at one time. Over 60 songs on there; 90% of which I’d need to at least peak at a YT guitar lesson or live performance to recall how to play. Crazy.

[@Zeinzu2]

That thing is so smooth and the fact that you can hear all the notes in the chords ringing out, is so satisfying. I can't wait to hear it some more!! Great pedal tester for sure.

[@VioletDeliriums]

notes are on the page...sounds are in the air.

[@60yroldRockstar-kl7mt]

You need a hug@@VioletDeliriums

[@stevenpipes1555]

BEAUTIFUL! I have yet to play a D'Angelico that i didn't fall in love with instantly. I have also yet to aquire one of my own. Maybe next year I'll get mine.

[@thormusique]

I don't usually like ornate guitars, but I do like the over-the-top art deco design on their mini DC headstock. D'Angelico totally sold me on their design aesthetics. Great video, cheers!

[@WilliamHaisch]

10:43 I agree. I do the same thing when I play by myself, too. I play for fun!

[@joellebrodeur1015]

Same.

[@norseman61]

I hate to be a cop-out, but I love BOTH of the headstock styles. For durability purposes, that new headstock is probably a better option. However the classic headstock is iconic, and MUST live on forever. A D’Angelico without the classic headstock is like a PRS with dots instead of birds. Still great, but just not the same.

[@brianrollins7275]

Nice guitar Ryan. Great playing and demo of the guitar. I was just looking at the DC version but I think this ss might be a better option. It’s $200 off at Sweetwater right now so it’s very tempting. And the way you kinda fell in love with it makes it even more tempting. I like the new headstock and the diamond or square inlays are a nice touch. I also like that it has that dark ebony fretboard. Let’s face it, I’m jealous. lol Thanks for the tones.

[@markmccarron-fraser4160]

I like both headstocks. I’ve got a Bedford Premier SH. It’s really sexy, but that blue single cut looks fantastic too. Very nice.

[@scottburns2345]

Les Trem was the first thing that came to my mind, just ordered the black one, I'll keep you posted!

[@thseed7]

I like their subdued headstock design (reminiscent of Epiphone). D'Angelico has always had their super flashy Art Deco styling, but these don't throw that all to the wind either🤘

[@blaineadams7484]

I bought the DC premier back in June. I think its pretty sweet all in all. I have 2 high frets that I need to fix. The pickups turned out to be pretty nice. The sweet spot is between 5th and 10th frets. I can't quite describe it

[@stevenpipes1555]

That thing sounded great under everything you threw at it.

[@yellowtruckproductions7502]

The "classic" headstock is in the style called Art Deco. It's very classy, imho.

[@WilliamHaisch]

The sustain is insane! 😊

[@eyeballbill]

I’ve literally spent the last month shopping semi hollow electrics. I finally settled on a D’Angelico Excel SS XT in natural finish. It has the scroll headstock like this one, which helped me with the decision. I’m waiting for Sweetwater to replace the stock Grover Imperials with locking versions of the same, so I’ve yet to have it in my hands. I’m anxiously awaiting its arrival! I passed on the mini since the full size is still a bit smaller (15” bout), and I’ve read the minis are a bit neck heavy. This one you have sounds great and looks fine as is.

[@PatrickGeneLeBlancHardy]

That's a Beautiful Guitar 🎸 Thanks for Sharing 🎶

[@discocrisco]

Love the little D'. Your noodling sounds good.

[@mrNobody100]

sounds pretty good. looks pretty good. yeah!!!

[@smartmammal9926]

I like this headstock and tuner config

[@paulburton5150]

Like you I wanted a smaller body semi. Was looking at the Gibson midtown's but ended up with a D'Angelico mini DC. It is a lovely guitar...one of the fancier ones. They make very classy beautifully made guitars.

[@stevenhowes530]

the ibanez artcore AM line are smaller semis. Kinda between 335 and 339. my favourites.

[@andybungert]

5:50 Wow, that started off especially clear

[@MarvinVig-up6cw]

I appreciate you for checking out that blue Jean single cut guitar!!!!! You are an outstanding guitarist!!!!! I’m in my early sixties and my Son has got me in learning guitar playing and I have a D’Angelico guitar one with that other head stalk design. I think the one you have is better suited for the times now. But if the guitar sounds good then that’s what matters to me!!!!! I really enjoyed your review and I wood like to get that same guitar down the road thank you again!!!!! Marvin

[@LivioC]

I love the classic headstock.

[@Paul_Lenard_Ewing]

I expect the headstock had more to do with bringing the guitar into a reasonable price point. But the whole guitar looks killer. The blue is the best color. You picked it perhaps predictably, LOL . But you picked perfect. Trust me ..the guitar would mate perfectly with a Boss SD-1 OD for your dirt sounds. It will keep the tone crisp but remove the honk from the acoustic tone.

[@1rwjwith]

Ha! Mr. Wiggle Stick! Guitar sounds decent…I like the small body idea.

[@flapjack413]

I very much prefer this new subdued headstock on this to their ornate one, that one just looks so fragile to me.

[@Jamalama555]

definitely this headstock

[@Taallyn]

It looks like a good guitar.

[@dopplebear9755]

Yeah that sounds reeeeally nice

[@TarenLeitzke]

My main guitar is a smaller-bodied semi-hollow, an Epiphone ES-339. 😀 I love the combination of vintage look and tone combined with a more modern body size. D'Angelico also makes a double cut smaller semi-hollow that more closely resembles an ES-339. The Mini DC, I think. I actually have it saved in my Sweetwater wish list, not for myself but with the intent to donate it if I ever win their wish list giveaway and spread the joy of smaller semi-hollows. I also have my dream amp, a Marshall 2525C, in my wish list so I think there's sort of a subconscious thought that karma will help me win the amp if I keep something to donate in my wish list, too. 😅

[@sassycat]

Reminded me of Gibson's ES-LP or one of Gretsch's small body semi-hollow models. The fun in your body language was evident, and it looks like you've got another never-sell guitar in your collection - a good problem to have!

[@idiotburns]

I much prefer the classic headstock. Its a point of pride, owning a Dangelico is supposed to be an experience, and inspiring one. Transformative for some.

[@swamplifecontrol]

They look great w those deco-style tuners w feel like they're 18/1

[@teknomanning]

Amen

[@mikeblue385]

nice sounding ax. got some chimey humbuckers.

[@davidthomas5035]

How's the neck dive on this thing? Like the new headstock. Don't much care for the straight F holes. Pups sound nice.

[@MrJosephSeely]

The headstock and over-all: From what I can gather the new design is geared toward regular gigging players, not so much meant to look pretty, but be a good tool, and still be a D'Angelico. The standard headstock tends to be a bit frail, and probably would not survive just thrown in a gig-bag in the back seat of a Subaru. The Supro humbuckers sound great and give out the desired "Bucker" fullness with a nice clarity. I think if you were an LP player on the regular, but wanted to switch it up, this body size would feel very comfortable, much like a 339. I think it would be a very comfortable guitar to play for a 3-4 hour gig, sound good, and look good. 2 Thumbs Up

[@Russell_Optics]

I actually like this headstock better than their standard one. I was looking for a mid-size semi-hollow very similar to the Gibson 339 and ended up getting the Harmony Comet. The Comet is built in Kalamazoo and in the same price range as this. I am extremely happy with my Comet, but this would have been a contender. The Harmony Comet is a mid-size semi-hollow body made in the USA and has excellent craftsmanship, sweet sounding gold foil pickups and only weighs 6 pounds. Superb USA made guitar for under $1500. What's not to like ?

[@vintagebikes4215]

Nice tone

[@SkeeterDigs]

I wouldn’t buy some of their guitars because of the headstock, this one is nicer👍

[@brandonlonge5804]

I personally like the beetle mandible headstocks, truss rod adjuster is just so unique.

[@kewdii]

@@brandonlonge5804 Exactly the headstock is one of the coolest parts!

[@musicfromakido]

Did I Hear you playing some The Hives there? Cool.

[@clintchambers7156]

I like it.

[@Josev-TV]

Classic headstock all the way

[@richardclark.]

I have a slightly higher end Gretsch. 5655 tg. They are also a semi hollow center block style. I love everything about the Gretsch but the playability. It has always felt a bit tight. Can anyone who has played both let me know how the string feel on the deangelico is comparatively? SPLIT TUNERS! MY FAVE AS WELL! And probably better than the Gretsch tuners.

[@bassyey]

My main guitar and only guitar is an Epiphone ES-335, this is a solid upgrade! I absolutely dig the looks. Yeah, I can't play solidbodies, those suck.

[@OutstandingBill1]

"A little reverb" (falls into endless chasm of echo)... This is a gorgeous guitar! I love the sustain, the look and the tone. In case D'Angelico are interested in feedback from people who can't afford a new guitar just now, but would seriously look at one of these if they could... The newer headstock design seems a bit more subtle. It's easier to see a Gibson similarity, which seems a bit surprising. It's a nice look though. I didn’t catch whether the frets are stainless, but that would be my preference. I don't see the point in using nostalgia tuners on a new instrument. But then I've suffered with a graunchy A string split top on my '70s Strat. I'd never go back there except for vintage reasons. D'Angelico say they're Grovers, so perhaps the gearing won't turn nasty over time. Those Supro pickups really do sound good. D'Angelico describe the neck as wooly, but that isn't what we're hearing here, I'm glad to say. Is this going into the "never sell" category then Ryan?

[@marioduron4376]

My Mom and younger Brother both blocked me from starting out with a guitar exactly like that one. There was one like it a long time ago. It was at Grandpa Anderson's house in Tigard. I guess my Mom was basically a Witch. And my brother is a Scab. It was like they are two extortionist aliens that steal the human soul. And they attract and align with other Scab Witches.

[@ousley421]

Quasar accretion disc Ready, wait...no wiggle stick??

[@gsbguitarsgsb679]

Yes this head stock this body style this hardware option, not this color though. Awesome guitar, on My bucket list I think. It reminds me of a wild cat for sure.

[@MrPatriot08]

The look of the original headstock and tuners prevented me from buying this brand….just didn’t like the look. This headstock is much better in my opinion.

[@christophmeyer-eh1fz]

Team classic headstock✌🏻😎😍😍🔥

[@nodataavailable]

"!beetle" - the Insect - Enjoyed the clarification. Otherwise I'd have obviously assumed the headstock was carved into the silhouette of Liverpool's old Fab Four.

[@nodataavailable]

OK, I will retract my sarcastic comment as you gave me more Two Princestons than I expected or deserved.

[@bldallas]

Great looking guitar; really like that new headstock, as well; definitely not a fan of their traditional headstock. In fact, now that I think about it, I’ve always been a headstock snob. The Martin basic square headstock is the pinnacle of perfection, IMO.

[@fightinpikey]

Agreed on the Martin headstock. I have to add that Gibson and Gretsch are in a battle for second in my book.

[@dstarling61]

This guitar an Excel Series is priced at $699, the Deluxe is $1899.

[@pothos89]

Noob question: what song is he playing at 9.02? Heard it a million times but don’t know the title 😂

[@steelbuchannon852]

I much prefer that headstock to the classic one. The classic headstock is what puts me off from buying one

[@michellewilson8845]

Prefer this headstock, lovely guitar

[@seymourheiney12]

True to your word the pricing is now $699.99! Come to papa!

[@60CycleHumcast]

its like they are predictable. I wonder if they are gearing up for a new release soon.

[@seymourheiney12]

@@60CycleHumcast I was told it’s because of overstock and not enough sales? Drop the price and push them out the door. Thanks for this video and all of your others you certainly help make informed decisions.

[@epiphonium]

Like the headstock, don't like the diamonded f holes and don't like the switch down there. I like that it doesn't come with a pickguard. Don't like the cream buckers would prefer 2 black P90s. Over all I would enjoy this guitar. Don't even put a wiggle stick on this poor thing. I'm guessing this is not very heavy so I really like that.

[@onefatstratcat]

A feedback machine!

[@russellzauner]

I am sure that manufacturing was actually speeded up/less restricted once that shapely notch was removed from the headstock...surprised Gibson hasn't sued them over it.

[@fretted]

That new headstock is terrible! I'm kidding, I like it. I have both. I have the DC version of that due here today. I'm sure it will be as awesome as my other 7 D'Angelico models I have 😃 I am replacing the tuners with Locking tuners. PS. I like the color!

[@teknomanning]

Totally.totally agree

[@periurban]

This guitar is listed as the "Excel Mini DC Tour" on the website. There is no Mini SS that I could find. The price is $1499.99, so I'm assuming it's the same. I think it's too much to ask for something so basic. Beautifully made, no doubt. But much more versatile guitars of equal quality available at much better prices.

[@chrisrussoroos6091]

This looks way better. Always looked like they were trying a little too hard before.

[@keithsmith9889]

Deangelico in general are some of the coolest and classiest guitars available. But that kinda is the problem am always a little worried I'll screw it up. Aside from picking them up in music shops I have always been a little scared to pull the trigger

[@teknomanning]

Pull it

[@thedreadtones]

I learned to play by ear and sight alone. While I know how to play certain chords, I don’t really know what they’re called or the musical theory behind them. Whenever I play, I always try to discover new things by making random chords shapes and see what happens. If I accidentally stumble on a chord that sounds good, I’ll play it enough times to memorise it. I don’t gig, I don’t jam with anyone. I just do it for fun. (The only songs I ever play from start to finish are Sabbath songs)

[@teknomanning]

I thought I was alone.

[@StevenHess]

Noodling keeps the copyright strikes away. Fret buzz is your hand posture. 😂

[@rob9329]

gibsons gonna be coming for that headstock!

[@muddymike10]

Attractive Git' Sounds swell... step away from the wiggle stick 🎸...

[@maxflinter6896]

Is this the mini or the "normal" Excel?

[@60CycleHumcast]

It’s the Excel SS. I don’t think they made a Mini version of it - steve

[@Deckie1969]

I like classic head please.

[@LouSpowells]

Oh man, I like that headstock SO much better than their standard headstock. May be a dumb reason, but the classic style always turned me off to the guitars.

[@nelson1953]

Maybe it was the way you set the amp but it seems there's too much bass.

[@DrD04K]

Honestly, the only reason I've never gotten a D'Angelico is the headstock, hopefully this style will replace the old one across the whole lineup.

[@3603mailmaster]

Another guitar for the pile

[@picksalot1]

The guitar sounds great, balanced, and rich! The more I hear it, the more I like the color. The sustain is outstanding, and a long sustain is something I highly prize. The smaller body size was a very smart move. I like how versatile that guitar appears to be. The more ornate traditional headstock style would look out of place on that guitar. I prefer a snakehead-shaped headstock, and their straight string pull geometry and aesthetic.

[@VioletDeliriums]

26:34 YOU KIDS TURN THAT ROCK AND ROLL DOWN!!!!

[@VioletDeliriums]

@60_cyclehum hit this....

[@chuckplainview4085]

My favorite part of d'angelico guitars is the art deco theme. So the new headstocks a 👎for me. This one gives off boring to me. but! That is the point of these guitars so I get it

[@chuckplainview4085]

Also ryan thanks for the extended 2 princetons today I've been a very brave and good boy recently

[@teknomanning]

Two two two prince😢Princetons😀👍🏿

[@stevekurimay2929]

Super noodler here.

[@mattcarnevali]

Damn now I have to learn the Jurassic Park theme

[@leonvain]

I live for the two princeton jingle

[@Amp497]

$1499,00. There are plenty of competitors with much lower and higher prices.

[@shckltnebay]

$1499 MIK, It better be pretty put together

[@papablue3015]

Nice! Still expensive!

[@oldmanzen6682]

Gorgeous guitar. Also, to my American neighbours: when in doubt with a name with an apostrophe, simply pronounce it as you would if it did not have the apostrophe. Signed, someone whose first language has apostrophes.

[@Invading-Specious]

hmmm, I like Gretsch

[@flybynight1929]

Nice guitar, love the color and the headstock, seems to sound good, but it's a little too expensive. And when the heck is the guitar world going to stop using those ridiculous outdated strap buttons, god they're awful.

[@thaabstrakt]

The classic headstock is much much better. This new one has no character.

[@richardclark.]

That headstock would break the deal for me. Check the tab on Everlong.

[@VioletDeliriums]

the best tab is your ears.

[@richardclark.]

@@VioletDeliriums I know. Did you hear it? Lol.

[@joellebrodeur1015]

@@richardclark. I did. He was a bit off on the rhythm mostly. It's one of two songs I play in drop D and it's a good rhythm workout.

[@ryangilby]

So I think this guitar can replace the Les Paul in your Never Sell pile. That LP just doesn’t fit in!

[@LuisRFeliu]

not enough PT (Princeton Time)

[@BuffaloC305]

I've avoided D'Angelico's simply because of their 'mandible' headstocks - great illustration, too. But only for that reason... it's also heavier but, just, well... cumbersome. Way too ornate... I don't want headstocks to compete with my playing, after all. (The funnier insult I've heard of their traditional headstock is the "Look, it's a bottle opener, too!")

[@BuffaloC305]

I only wish they'd do some plain-wood stain offerings. Plus, not a fan of belly-button pokers for strap buttons... the strap must twist into the body where a neck-block point allows a strap to lay flat. I can poke my own belly-button.

[@TheElrondo]

Where is the traditional headstock? This is crucial to D'Angelico guitars. Now they look close to many others. For ~1500 bucks they should have kept the traditional headstock, even it's a bit more labor intensive.

[@clintchambers7156]

I’m more interested in how it plays than the headstock personally

[@Aeidotronics]

I think it's better without a trem.

[@fehnraal9144]

Gonna be real with you chief - aint no way in hell I'm paying $1,899 MSRP for a miniature guitar.

[@60CycleHumcast]

you should never pay MSRP anyways, these are $1,500 street.

[@MrJosephSeely]

@@60CycleHumcast I just looked at the website last night and the MSRP is now $1499 for these.

[@wrxguyusa]

@@60CycleHumcast I just wait for the inevitable closeout sale and get it for

[@marioduron4376]

@@60CycleHumcast Keep it a secret from a fool.

[@Awake2Evil]

You need to write a song called the noodle. I noodle and make a bunch of noise also Thou shalt not wiggle stick a guitar over $1,200

[@tom5216]

Nooo! No pickguard.

[@onkelpool]

The first impression will not be spoiled and the comment will not be changed. According to the all pictures, it is a Mainland of China product!😳😳😳

[@wrxguyusa]

The Excel line is made in Korea; the Premier models are from China.

[@Doug5524]

I prefer the classic but each to their own, this guitar is a little overpriced at £1,299.00 UK price and some a £1,335 that's about $1,639.00

[@spookydirt]

looks like D'angelico only make one lefty, and that's $1500 and only one colour. That's a shame.

[@andybungert]

1:07 BE GONE :D