Rainsong Black Ice WS1000N1 Graphite Guitar Review By Scott Grove

[@DanielFerrellMusic]

Great review and great playing! Always enjoying your videos and glad you got all the old ones available. I love that I discovered you two years ago, and I’m still finding new stuff!

[@groovydjs]

Yeah, this would be great for where you live as well. Some alternatives are a MUST for folks like us and I'm glad to see that some companies realize that and are putting out very strong instruments for us.

[@steveburrows101]

Thanks Scott. Got mine a year ago (BI-WS1000N2), play it every day, every time I play it it gives me joy. As you say, it sits smack in the middle between Martin and Taylor, but I think it has a cleaner / less coloured sound than wood guitars.

[@groovydjs]

After putting the Babicz bridge on my Crook guitar, I'm totally sold on them. It was the first MAJOR difference that I've heard in a long time. Others have been subtle, but the Babicz lets you know that it is making a real difference in your tone and in TOTAL control of every adjustment to it you could ever want to make.

[@stevenshockley4237]

Hey Scott, it's been a while. You and I used to have long Elixir conversations back when I was Sonichackman1, not sure if you remember, but I just wanted to say that you inspire the heck out of me. I've learned so much from you, I wouldn't be the guitarist I am without you. I watch every video you put up.

[@groovydjs]

The action was high when I got it. Rainsong does this on purpose. They let you know in the pamphlet, that they left the bridge saddle high so that you could simply shave it down from the under side to suit your feel. I used a Dremmel sander wheel and had mine up and perfect in under 5 minutes. That was a pleasant surprise as nobody knows how you like them to be set up. So, to do it myself and to know that it will ALWAYS be that way from here on out....very cool. So, all will be high new.

[@JustVinnyBlues]

Great to see your review of the Rainsong. I have been a fan for a long time. I had one of the hybrids, which is a composite of fiber glass and carbon fiber; I loved the tone on that guitar, and I think the electronics are outstandingly well suited for the guitar. As you say, if you live in a climate where there are humidity problems or you are traveling around, different altitudes, temperatures, humidity, one of these can quickly become your go to instrument. It is really nice having that guitar in tune every time you pick it up; no truss rod adjustments, no anything, very sturdy. All you have to do is play it. You're right about their website too. I played and bought the guitar first, then found the website and I was convinced that the website was some kind of counterfeit; could not be the same company. They are now making a model I definitely want to get, and that is the Shorty - an amazingly big sound for a small guitar and a 12 fret cutaway.

[@captainkangaroo4301]

Hey Scott, you should check out the Rainsong Concert Series (CO) guitar. It has their thinnest top. It is an unbraced, like they all are, unidirectional carbon fiber top that is very close to the sound of a spruce top. I have two. The CO-WS1000N2T and the CO-DR1000N2. I play them a lot. In fact my Collings guitars are collecting cobwebs.

[@groovydjs]

Many thanks! I've done a few videos in the past on the PRS axes. I personally like the Korean made ones a lot better than I do the USA made ones. The early USA PRS guitars were a lot better feeling to me because of the less bulky neck joint. It was nice and smooth and comfortable. In the past 20 years, they keep getting thicker and thicker. They are nearing that uncomfortable Les Paul thickness now. But, they have the most consistent quality I've ever seen from any MAJOR manufacturer.

[@scottgrove4416]

Many thanks Mike! It's SOOOO different, yet so familiar that it all comes together and the axe feels like a part of the family almost immediately.

[@groovydjs]

Thanks much! I'm with you....I see a 12 string one in my future too. All of the typical problems with 12 strings would be gone! Gotta love it.

[@mossopp91]

Yes!!!!!! I've been waiting for this one with much anticipation! Thank you Scott grove, you are groovy!

[@groovydjs]

That DEEP Ovation of mine still has them all beat on the the bottom end. They REALLY got that part right back in the day. I don't know if the Ovations of today still have that "Thomp" to them, but it sure is a great sound huh?!!!!

[@groovydjs]

Howdy, I've not heard of them until I posted this review. I'm going to have to find some to check out. I'm off now to find them for the first time online. Thanks for the head's up!

[@groovydjs]

Yes, it actually is 100% humidity when snowing and I didn't say that the WATER had to be 20 below, I said that it could be 20 below outside. So, take the water (water is 100% humidity as well) and pull the axe out of that water into the -20 degree weather and it's all going to be fine. You are simply bitching and moaning for the sake of doing so.

[@Chuggsbigman]

Scott you're type of man that makes me listen when you talk. Thanks for the videos and stay groovy

[@groovydjs]

Thanks my friend! The trip home was really long. I'm just not used to traveling alone. lol It was just great to get to see my wife again and to hurry up and get to the house to make sure all of my "KIDS" were ok and that she had properly cared for them. lol

[@fento9]

She's a beauty Scott. Best of luck with it and all the best to you.

[@scottgrove4416]

Many thanks! I was just in the middle of turning all of my comments back on for all of my videos and they shut my access to my channel down for 2 weeks. So, I had to come up with a new account to be able to respond. Glad you like that axe!

[@scottgrove4416]

Thank you Bruce! My total pleasure.

[@scottgrove4416]

Many thanks. It really does sound nice in person. Woods can be pretty, but.....not really needed if you don't live in the right climate. Really nice to have this alternative.

[@la196]

Left the last comment while you were talking, now that you're showing the guitar, it looks very cool and unique.

[@scottgrove4416]

I am really growing towards that same conclusion the more I play it as well. I'm really loving this thing.

[@groovydjs]

I know. It was crazy huh? I was kind of floored when I did the comparisons for the first time on this video. The strings on all 3 guitars are the Elixirs and are all brand new, so....the Martin is what it is. I remember buying that Martin and telling my wife that I was going to just go ahead and get the LAST acoustic I would ever need. Who the hell was I kidding? lol I still really dig that guitar, but.....the search continues. lol

[@jed1166]

Love the “Green Acres” theme! Your review got me to order the N1 neck on a Jumbo! Thanks!

[@JamesClarkEtc]

I dig Rain Songs!! It's quite nice to have an acoustic you can intonate, and actually get in fucking tune!! I never would have found one, If I had not seen one in person. Glad you like yours. Cheers Scott, Hope you're having some good days.

[@TomCaverly]

Another great video from Scott Groves! Thank-you, true hands on stuff from a pro. I really enjoy these reviews!

[@scottgrove4416]

Sir James my good friend! Many thanks! Yeah, I'm really enjoying this guitar for sure. I'll be heading back to your channel in just a few minutes to get caught up on everything. Yeah, I'll always have the little flash drives around for sure. I'm always honored that you allow me to be a part of your life and that you trust me enough to put the lessons into good use in your playing. That's the biggest compliment you could ever toss my way! Love ya my man! Scott

[@freezerburn04]

Excellent review man thanks a ton. I have some hand issue where I need low action but with the Alaska cold and no humidity is killing my D-18 but I'm going to have to let it go and get a Rainsong. I think it is the best thing for me to do:( Probably best for the '72 as well. Shit man. Rainsong are in Washington State aren't they? I have a ton of air miles so maybe a trip down there is in my near future plans. Thanks again for the review it sure did sound great to my ear at least. Be cool, freezer'

[@groovydjs]

Hey there Davey my good friend. I guess the WEIGHT should've been one thing to have mentioned. lol It weighs a slight bit LESS than all of my other acoustics. So, it is very light, but doesn't do a neck dive on my lap. I have yet to even put a strap on it, but the button for the top part of the strap is in the same location as the Martin and Taylor. So, I'm sure it will even out fine. It really is a sweet axe and the split between those other 2 is a very welcome thing for sure! Cheers.

[@02stanggt]

That thing is a thing of beauty, Scott.

[@Tom-db7bx]

Thanks Scott. This review is old so you may not see this but my Rainsong is on the way. It's a little smaller body size as I have a bad shoulder sometimes but I am really excited. Thank you for doing the review. I am in Nevada also and the humidity here is a big issue for sure.

[@groovydjs]

Hey there Thomas. I'm glad you are getting your Rainsong, that is awesome. I'm out in Mesquite. This guitar just kills all of my of my other acoustics and like you said, the humidity NEVER is a factor. The only guitar I can pick up that will be in tune ALL THE TIME since there is no wood to shrink and expand. Congratulations again on your axe!!!!!!

[@Tom-db7bx]

@@groovydjs Thanks Scott! I will let you know when what I think when I get it in a few days. Really looking forward to it.

[@Tom-db7bx]

@@groovydjs Hey Scott. Ive had it for almost 24 hours now and it's the best choice Ive made. Mine has the chunkier neck and it totally eliminated the soreness I would get in my left hand index finger. It's amazing how it feels! So glad I saw your video!

[@my2ube306]

If I treated my guitar like a dog my guitar would get the best treatment there is cause my dog is my Fur Baby and he has been our companion and friend for 10 years.

[@scottgrove4416]

Hi there Joe! Welcome aboard! I'm honored. That is great about the Corvus guitars. I think there are 3 of us in this world that love them now. lol You will have to share those pics with me and the Custom for sure! I'll be back on my groovydjs name again soon so that you'll know when I've replied to these. lol Cheers my friend and again.....welcome! Scott

[@douglasbrown9910]

honestly Scott.. thanks for opening my eyes.

[@groovydjs]

My total pleasure. These folks really have it together...I just wish more folks could see it. Cheers my friend.

[@CriticalMassCongregation]

living near the ocean in a very frozen/humid state (maine) one of these has always been on my wishlist. someday...

[@crowellp]

Great review! Really helpful. I especially appreciate your comparison with the Taylor and Martin. I'd love to see you take this approach with Rainsong dreadnought review. Thanks for posting!

[@arricat5e311]

Finally! No reason why everything has to be made from wood. Big fan of man made materials here. I'd like an acrylic body with a graphite neck.

[@michaelappollo6770]

Hi Scott, just started discovering the joys of carbon fiber. Very nice description and comparison playing. Of the three you played, I like the Taylor the best, but then I've always been a Taylor guy (nothing against Martin, just prefer the Taylor tone), and then the Rainsong, which doesn't sound as full and lush. However, to be able to keep a CF guitar with you, in the trunk of your car and never have to worry about it in heat, cold, high or low humidity, makes owning one of these a no brainer. Thanks again, and I'm only learning about you and your videos, and thank you for posting. Have a great day!

[@thomasy952]

That is a beautiful guitar. I played a Rain Song for about 10 min. once and just loved it. Tom. :)

[@RackhirTheRed]

Great review! Thanks for putting it out there.

[@fishdrumm]

Scot I put 3 nylon acoustic string for the E A D strings and left the steel strings on GBE now it sounds warmer and with the grafite neck should be no problems

[@scottgrove4416]

I'm using the same ones on all of the guitars. They are the 12 gauge Polywebs, 80/20 bronze.

[@stonedrocker666]

I must say, the Rainsong and Taylor are my favorite sounding acoustics through this video. Martin has less top end than i could be satisfied with, but its a cool guitar for recording. Cant wait to get my hands on one of these Rainsongs!

[@groovydjs]

Hey there John my great friend! I hope you get to try one of the Rainsongs out. They DO come factory set with the action very high and they DO suggest that you do the action work the way YOU WANT IT. So, know that going into it. Other than that.......You'll freak! Great stuff!

[@scottgrove4416]

Hi my friend. Yeah, it makes a ton of difference. The materials used for the nut will only make a difference (for the most part) to the open notes and the material used for the bridge saddle will make a ton of difference on every note and for the transference of sound getting to the under saddle pickup. So, a less bright material (softer), such as graphite or brass would actually roll those highs off a bit, allowing the guitar to sound a lot more even instead of the highs being SO pronounced.

[@MrMZaccone]

No. Actually, it's not necessarily 100% humidity when it snows and the water under the ice isn't 20 below. I'll shut up now though. I don't want to get blocked or anything, I love your videos and I'm already saving up for one of these guitars.

[@aoeulhs]

Great review! Very cool to compare it with the Martin and Taylor. I have the same model Rainsong - WS1000N1 - but not with the Black Ice soundboard. I was thinking of getting it in Black Ice (hence my presence here). Probably won't though, as, although mine isn't as pretty as the Black Ice it's still very nice, and I love the sound. I bought it for traveling, due to it's light weight (case is light too), and the fact that it can go from the dessert to the tropics no problem. It's become a daily player: sweet sound, stays in tune, don't have to worry too much about damaging it. Tip: to polish it I use auto spray detailer. Shines it up nicely in no time.

[@FloydRoseDiscovery]

Love ya too man! If I didn't find your videos a couple of years ago. I would probably still be using tabs and stuff like that. Now I can say I'm a guitar player, I learn things by figuring it out. I used tabs a lot and didn't remember what I song I've learned after a few days. Now I can remember them because I had to figure it out and use my brain. I'm a better musician and have more knowledge on music now. I owe it all to you. Thank You

[@eekleefeld]

I've taken a liking to smaller-body (but not kid-size) acoustics. They're comfortable to hold and to play acoustically on the couch or a park bench. And when you plug in an acoustic-electric, the P.A. system produces all the volume.

[@syzygy21055]

Hey, thanks for the review, Scott. Tons of good info. I won't repeat what others have said here. I'd just like to offer a suggestion. With a little planning and minimal editing, this review could have easily been under 14 minutes without leaving anything out. Making your viewers wait through 10 minutes of chat before even showing the guitar and 16 minutes before we hear a single note out of it - well man, that's just brutal. It was hard work hanging all the way through these 38 minutes. I suspect some people are missing out on a lot of the good stuff you're putting out because it's just too hard to hang with you for so long. Some of us are looking at several reviews with limited (and valuable) time to spend, and investing that much time in one video with this much dead air in it is tough to justify. I suggest giving a real quick top line overview of the main points you want to cover, let us see and hear the instrument as early as possible to get us hooked, then go in for the deep dive on each feature with a crisp wrap-up of the main points at the end. Finally, edit out any needless repetition or off-topic stuff we can do without. That way the whole video feels more entertaining and focused, and gives viewers the option early on to just get the overview and move on or stick around for the meatier stuff. Anyway, I don't want to cramp your style. Your friendly, easygoing manner and sense of humor work well for you, and I appreciate you taking your time to help people out. I just think with a little attention to structure and pacing you can make that time more worthwhile for everyone (including yourself) without losing any of the folksy feel. I should mention I often storyboard videos and websites as part of my job as a graphic designer and art director. Making them communicate as effectively and memorably as possible is what I do. There are thousands of examples on KZbin of people like you who know how to put together a nice, tight video that entertains and informs. There's no magic to it, just a small amount of know-how. Not criticizing here, and I mean no disrespect. You can totally forget everything I just said and no harm done. Like I said, the info is good, but it doesn't help the people who aren't sticking around to hear it. I don't need to tell you it's important to keep in mind who your audience is. This is the internet, where people are used to getting to the point in 140 characters or less. Just trying to be helpful. Thanks again.

[@groovydjs]

I don't give a shit. I like my long videos and the others can suck my chode.

[@groovydjs]

sgim43 was blocked for biting my taint when I clearly said to nuzzle it only.

[@groovydjs]

Yep.....THAT company was actually purchased by Peavey a while ago.

[@scottgrove4416]

You will have to be VERY happy with where your bridge saddles are and then physically bend the screw that is going to each saddle (with a pair of needle nose pliers) and make them at angles so that each one will come a LOT closer to being intonated. Here is a good example of it: watch?v=K3s8Aggd6ns Go to 5:14 in the video and he explains how to do it very well.

[@zagan1]

Fiberglass is strands of glass, it'll itch your skin as the strands will stick into it. Carbon Fibre Is a real close weave and looks a dull yellow (slightly brighter straw) if they used a clear (no dye) resin then you'd get a yellow weave but they generally use black to make it look a bit better The resin is the same in fibreglass and carbon fibre but it's the fibreglass or carbon fibre than gives it the strength, that guitar will be about 8 to 10 times stronger than steel I beams.

[@scottgrove4416]

Anytime my friend. If you're ever in the neighborhood of Mesquite, Nevada give me a shout.

[@scottgrove4416]

Thanks for the info my friend. That's just one reason I like you. I CAN TRUST THAT YOU KNOW WHAT IS WHAT and I get to learn something new along the way! That is always a beautiful thing. I appreciate the information and will take it as law with no further investigation. I hope all is great on your end my man! Cheers, Scott

[@tomkirk6942]

Hello Scott. recently discovered your videos/channel. Thank you very much for all of your great instruction man. Very much appreciated!

[@brucesackheim3015]

great demo.... comprehensive. thanks for going over the electronics

[@groovydjs]

Actually, the Tusk parts would make it BRIGHTER, if they would've used graphite, it would've toned that down. Brass would've toned it down as well.

[@kenchuba6024]

very cool guitar Scott. I think that top is awesome. Sounds great.

[@comancheviperrrr]

I would definitely be interested in a graphite guitar. I like the looks of this one and I really do like the sound. I think compared to the other two guitars that you showed, this guitar is way way better.

[@groovydjs]

Yeah, I figured I would "Diddle" some buttons and see what happened. Like all "Diddling" that I've done before.....it let out a little SQUEAL when I got it just right! lol

[@walterrider1612]

hi wanted to say thanks for all ur videos

[@SarcastSempervirens]

Sir Scott, sir, reporting Lace Silvers installed, pickups kick major ass, sound amazing, especially neck position, per your recommendation! Am baffled as to why everyone's not using them. Happy as fuck!

[@westcoastguitarsvancouver3649]

The RainSong WS 1000 is one of our best selling guitars !

[@groovydjs]

I'm not sure I understand this question or response.

[@invisiguardwindowtinting]

You did an outstanding job Comparing with other guitars. Especially the electronics. Mike e

[@howdyjed]

just a great review man, I have been looking for a weatherproof acoustic/electric, this looks like it, thanks!

[@ksgtrpkr]

Scott, Great Review my Friend! I also liked your explaination of every guitar having a place (I'm showing that to my wife) LOL. I have been looking at Graphite guitars for a while. Ovation of course and Peavey also have great ones. The Rain Songs are marvelous. Graphite made guitars cut very well through the mix because they are very bright and crisp. Excellent for stage use with a full band and a loud Bass Player. Thank You! Beautiful guitar!

[@theultimaterockr]

My buddy has this specific one and I love it. It's super loud and attractive. I prefer the look of the parlor version guitar which has totally different graphite top with the rest being carbon fiber like this one. The only problem with it is a lack of a few higher frets. All of this reminds me I have a zero wood guitar I've been working on that hope out can take a look at in a few weeks Scott

[@Andyjpro]

I would strongly consider it if: A) I didn't live in an apartment B) I wasn't in university C) I didn't just buy a Chapman Stick I always prefer the DIY method. This time in my life just doesn't allow for it.

[@poodlenme]

Overall I go with the Taylor. The craftsmanship is superior because of natural beauty of the wood. The Rain Song is another animal entirely! Its beautiful and sounds wonderful. But all in all they are equal for different reasons. 2 different animals, premium quality both!

[@AnthonyLosty]

Scott you finally fixed the aspect ratio, good on ya! :D

[@frankrizzo3009]

Thanks for the video. What is the model Taylor you played? To me, it sounded better than the Martin and the Rainsong.

[@wishwizard100]

Great review, Scott. Thank you. What a sweet axe!!

[@mjhealy3714]

Hey Scott! Love your review of the Rainsong. It is a really cool guitar. The graphite and carbon fibre design is flipping great! The top is all kinds of black-on-black cool. I am also quite impressed by the definition of each note. The EQ electronics also seem to offer a lot of tone control. I am very excited about how well your Rainsong turned out. Impressive. Also, what features make for a good acoustic amp? Good health and happiness to you, Scott! Best wishes, Michael.

[@MrAlexhollins]

Looks and sounds like a keeper. Are high end electro acoustics as easy on the fingers as a typical Tele or a Strat? I've had cheaper acoustics but always found that it felt as though I was starting out again, Maybe I should have tried shaving the bridge down but I've only recently started to fiddle with my guitars, You seem pretty clued up. Would it not worry you swapping the nut on a pristine instrument and do you think a mod like that could effect a guitars value? Keep up the good work.

[@SDRockman]

Hey Scott! I've seen many graphite guitars and basses before, but I've never seen one like this that is made like an acoustic guitar. I love the sound of it and like you say, you don't have to even care about humidity or heat. Are there any graphite basses that you recommend, that DON'T cost a fortune? lol I think I'm asking for too much...

[@contrabandjoe7974]

Hello Scott- Just subscribed to your channel. I have been watching your videos for months so I dediced it's time I subcribed (my first KZbin subscription by the way). You and I first met on the Ibanez Collections Forum.. Anyhow, great review of this beautiful graphite axe.. And by the way, thanks to you, I'm now the owner of 3 Gibson Corvus models.. AND! I'm having a Corvus/Futura hybrid single coil custom build guitar put together as we speak!!! will share more details soon.. Great job man!!

[@bobpeters61]

Sweet! I wish I cold afford one. When I looked at their website, I had similar misgivings about their thicker neck. Thanks for confirming that for me. I do hope the thinner neck is still available in a couple of years when I might optimistically be able to get one.

[@ChesterTheGm]

Beautiful, beautiful guitar!

[@RodneyLivingston]

The Taylor sounds the best to me. But they all sound great. Great review Scott, as usual.

[@rw1174]

Great review and beautiful guitar! Can't wait to save up for one. Had bad luck with acoustics considering my backyard is a swamp(heat and humidity).

[@jameshill2015]

Shark inlays are Standard.. 90% have sharks, dot inlays are considered custom, they are special order only and $200 more for them.

[@scottgrove4416]

Thanks Paul my friend. You are 100% correct. The Martin does sound like a Gibson in a lot of ways...dark and lifeless. It sounds great plugged in, but.....that's a different animal. lol I love that Taylor too. It is the only one of their guitars (so far) that I fell in love with. The looks drew me in big time and I just knew, from past experiences with them, that it would be a dog.....then the damned thing made me take it home. lol The Rainsong....I can't really fault it at all, Great axe.

[@guitarrelic]

Beautiful guitar. From the youtube audio I couldn't tell much difference between the Martin and the Rainsong. Hope all is well.

[@groovydjs]

LOL, that's too cool. I'll have to go find a video on the making of them. It really makes sense to make a perfect one and just to let the machines and computers copy them. To have 100% control over the quality and tone of each instrument is great. You don't have to "HOPE" that each tree will sound as good as the last one. lol

[@manley1979]

Hey Scott are you going to get around to reviewing the 1980 Kramer Axe that you previewed some time back? Can't wait to see it!

[@TheF86Sabre]

I knew about the brass, wasn't sure what graphite would do although I thought because of it's density it would be brighter. I liked the sound of the guitar but of course camera mics and computer speakers really don't do it justice.

[@AdamThomasMusic]

Hey Scott quick question; What was the most popular electric guitar for country music before the telecaster was made?

[@stringmanipulator]

That's a very cool guitar and I'm sure it will serve you well. Hey Scott I would love to hear your thoughts about different types of strats from the "popular" and "expensive" brands. I've often thought about that, take for instance Suhr, T.Anderson, etc are they really worth all that extra cash ? or is it just some strats in expensive suits ? I mean in how many ways can you really improve a strat and charge thousands of dollars? Would love to hear your oppinion thanks Kenneth

[@ThrashRoC]

Incredible ! , Sweet ...this guitar sounds so good ..

[@d18trucker]

great review I think you talked me into getting one of these. I live in Las Vegas and constantly worry about my expensive Martin and Taylor. I like to leave my guitar out on the stand so I can just grab it whenever.

[@laney50w]

Hey Scott, you mention Peavey guitars every now & then. Have you ever owned one of the Vandenberg models? Just curious. Thanks and Happy Thanksgiving to ya'

[@ronnie5129]

Scott, Man that guitar sounds Great. I wish i could buy one. I was wondering why they put a Truss Rod in the other neck they have but your neck does not have one? is it due to the thickness of the neck? Cheers, Gary

[@stealyourface73]

Very nice guitar. Have you ever played a Blackbird Carbon Fiber Acoustic? I personally like them better than the Rainsong Guitars. But that's just my personal preference.

[@my2ube306]

Oh, I forgot. Good review of Rainsong Guitars.

[@la196]

This is interesting Scott, I've never heard or read about this one. As usual, thanks for the new information.

[@chriskerrick1452]

sounds very good thank you sir

[@Elshibly]

Hey! Love your videos man :) Could you please do a video about your opinion of PRS guitars? Would be interesting

[@thestoneh4544]

😂 “whoever took this picture should be … “😅 hilarious. Ten yrs later . Picture online is much nicer lol also thanks for the detailed review I’ve been trying to find one. Price today for these in Canada is about $4200 but no one has em in stock so u can’t play before u buy. So I’m gonna spend a lot of time online trying to find the right review. This helped. Thanks !