Watch this video before buying a Yamaha A3M

[@gianni.chiarello]

00:00 introduction pros/cons 5:30 sound samples

[@scottbecker3485]

Kind sir, you not only inspired me to get this actual guitar (used, mint condition, older version), but also thankfully made it amply clear to me that the older version will serve me better than the newer one (less hiss, tuner on board, more modeling options…). Just received it today, and am absolutely delighted! Coming to this from a Yamaha FG-TA using it live for solo gigs, and despite identical specs on the neck, etc., the A3M (with all solid wood) sounds much more resonant and rich, and also more open. And plugged in, it’s a humungous difference! The A3M has rich bass despite the cutaway, and will be perfect for my performances. Easily tamable with EQ, and with a few different colors available via the mic models. I‘ll be running it through a small pedalboard for a few effects, but the one effect I‘m now going to be able to get rid of is my 10-band EQ. Happy, and very thankful to you for your sharing!

[@billimbriale8535]

One of the few (only?) comparisons of the two versions. Well done, thanks.

[@robbiehague8352]

Great comparison of the two preamps. I've had a chance to play both versions on the AC3R, and judging from my experience AND your video, the earlier version of the preamp sounds way better that the current version. It's a shame they changed it

[@tom5216]

That older version sounds so much warmer than the new one. Having said that it’s had a lot longer to age in. I have the newer version in rosewood and it keeps getting better. I also have the AC3R and it blows the dreadnought away. Great guitars but the smaller one is definitely a keeper. One of my favourite guitars.

[@Todd-t2j]

Just what i needed. Thank you sir

[@brianrenenielsen923]

Thanks for a good rundown on both.. very Useful :-)

[@michaelneal900]

I bought the newer version ands really regret it. I plays as in easy to finger really well, but after recording both ambient and using the plugin jack the newer model sounds terrible to me.

[@tonysilver2297]

Hi Gianni, your guitar sounds great. Is it solid back & sides or veneer? I'm looking at an older Japanese one for sale in Japan & it's described as "all veneer".

[@gianni.chiarello]

I think they are both solid sitka top with solid mahogany back and sides.

[@jeffrey.a.hanson]

Surprised. Is there any difference in nut width/string spacing or just the ‘fatness’ of the neck? I’ve played the new model, and owned both a Taylor 214 and a 324. I play a Taylor T5 as my live ‘acoustic’ and sold the others during the hot used market. Their matte finishes were simply too delicate to be ‘workhorse’ guitars.

[@gianni.chiarello]

neck and string spacing feels very similar. maybe the finish is a bit more matte on the back of the neck of the new one. If I had to buy again I'd try and find the Japanese version of the old model.