I Tested the Top Three $200 Guitars (ONE stole the show)

[@tacguitar]

Hey guitar friends! As guitar players, we constantly get asked "hey, so and so wants to learn guitar, can you recommend a good beginner guitar?" So I made this video for you to share the next time you get this question! Let me know which one sounded best to you. Cheers! - Tony

[@OldManWithAGuitar]

#smallwins Hi Tony, Made it to 5,000 hours of practice on November 22 2024. Ill reach out again on new years day with the full breakdown.

[@windrider65]

As a beginner player, the money spent on a setup at the guitar shop is money well spent. If you are purchasing one for a gift, add the money for the setup so they can and will love to practice.

[@darrenkeller9251]

An old audiophile tip is to make sure you equalize the volume on every product as the most efficient (loudest) will always sound better for the wrong reasons. That said, the Orangewood was much quieter and sounded dead in comparison to the others. The Yamaha sounded best. But, if you had turned up the mic to equal dB of the others, it likely would have revealed the character that you preferred. Thank you for the time and effort you gave to this review.

[@tommilburn-d9p]

Hi I enjoyed your presentation! I’m 83 years old! I have the attention span of a gnat! I think I like lower sounds! I wear hearing aids I liked Orange-wood sound best! 🖖🦄🙉🤡

[@JS-fd6jd]

HEY TONY : Know what, I can't really answer which one I"D like without knowing the composition of each ones nut and bridge-saddle. I do more fingerpicking than flatpicking these days, and nail-tip-strumming. I want projection and sustain even while fingerpicking . The bundle with the Orangewood is great value. The Fender with the hard case also is. If you told me the Fender and the Yamaha both had bone or Tusq saddles, and the Orangewood had a saddle which i knew was plastic and therefore upgradable to Tusq, then I'd want that. If all three already had bone or Tusq saddles....and nuts... no possible gain by upgrading those, then give me the Yamaha. I have a low end Alvarez that I bought from a kid's father. The kid had some challenges. Father was frustrated having to sell stuff for his son and let it go for 140. Acoustic/electric dred w/ cutaway. I did your bridge mod on it, replaced nut with bone, and saddle with Tusq, bridge pins with bone. Great projection and sustain playing even without a pick.With a fresh set of strings I wouldn't believe i'd be able replace it for less than 300.... but the Fender and Yamaha sound great.

[@kjjmusic]

My pick in the blind test was the Yamaha. It has a nice clarity to it. Overall i can see the orangewood is a great buy, but a little too boomy for my taste.

[@nicoloprod]

Same for me!

[@wedkarskimiszmasz]

Only Yamaha!

[@roscoebeach5658]

I didn’t think it was close the other two sounded thin and jangly to me.

[@muleface1066]

Me too. I heard better articulation and balance. The Orangewood sounded like it swallowed all of its upper range and I didn't like the Fender at all. As respects the setup, I think it's appropriate to ship guitars with high action. It's easier for your LGS to lower action than to raise it.

[@allanramusiewicz996]

@@wedkarskimiszmaszYamaha Does NOT MAKE BAD GUITARS !!! Playing for 60 Years and Have Owned Quite a Few Yamahas 😊😊😊😊😊

[@azcharlie2009]

The Yamaha was the clear sound winner. But, owning an Orangewood (Echo Live), I can't believe they can make a guitar like that for what I paid. $325 at that time! Whoever makes Orangewood guitars does a great job for the money. That being said, I thought the mahogany Orangewood didn't quite have the punch, or volume, either of the other guitars had. But, that is the nature of the wood, and the size.

[@Jeremya74]

Yamaha sounded best to be also..orangewood sounded oddly unbalanced

[@dannyhughes4177]

I also play an OW Echo Live. I love it. I've had many Martin players drool over it. I play a lot of bluegrass and it will hold it's own in any jam.

[@MashaT22]

Great call! My only “beef” with open pore finish is that people don’t know how to take care of it and end up accidentally wrecking the guitar. People end up putting satin safe product to clean it, which will then lead to the finish eating away and/or sinking into the pores, leaving thousands of dots in its place. If you have any open pore finish, be sure to sure an extremely damp (as in barely wet), super soft microfiber cloth and gently wipe in large circular motions. IMMEDIATELY wipe the surface dry using the same large circular motion with a second super soft microfiber cloth. When you see a satin finish and don’t know if the pores were filled, assume they weren’t and use the same process above. Satin safe cleaners are only safe when the pores have been filled. Nobody explains this on products and many guitar specs fail to mention this. My friend’s Fender Dhani Harrison uke (the most expensive uke they sell) got ruined because nothing in the literature said the finish was open pore. I had borrowed it and thought I was being a good friend by cleaning it with my satin safe Music Nomad product. Twelve hours later, the next morning, I was shocked to see thousands of tiny dots all over the uke where the finish sank into the pores. After speaking to Music Nomad, Fender, and Sweetwater, we eventually solved the mystery and learned the finish was open pore. Thankfully Sweetwater very kindly covered it under their warranty and replaced the uke because it wasn’t explained on their own website or the Fender spec sheet. Very surprised Fender’s most expensive ukulele would not have had the pores filled when less expensive instruments have filled pores. Point is, if you don’t know, please don’t use a cleaning product. Ask the guitar manufacturer first if it doesn’t specify on their website. If you don’t get a response, just use the above method. Hopefully this info will help save a beginner out there from accidentally ruining the satin finish on their first guitar! Learn to take care of your instruments properly, and they will take care of you for life - even the low cost ones!

[@BobDorfman]

Re Tony’s Acoustic Challenge (aka TAC): I’ve been playing for 60 years but found myself playing the same stuff over and over again without much actual improvement to my technique or flexibility. I started TAC 6 months ago and love it. There are some weeks when the technique for the week is easy for me, but more often, the lessons have really challenged me, increasing my guitar skills significantly.

[@rockydaleo6998]

At this moment the orangewood Oliver and Morgan are both on sale for 200 or less. Both have solid mahogany top and the Morgan is acoustic/electric. Awesome guitars

[@DerFeindmarkierer]

It's been years since I watched your last video, awesome that you're still around. I think I prefer the Yamaha out of these three, the Fender is okay and the Orangewood to me is a distant third.

[@markiacomini5830]

I have 3 Orangewood guitars; Dana, Rey, & Oliver live + a Milo uke. Enjoy playing them all. All set up perfectly on arrival. Been playing guitar for 45yrs and still have my 1st acoustic, a Goya G210. I have several others but all spruce tops. I'm really loving the tone of Mahogany, even the 2 which are layered. Orangewood hits well above their weight class. They're trying to build a name while other's are resting on theirs.

[@MichaelBrown-q5d]

WOW this guy l did work 4 had a late 60s or early 70s electric ic GOYA l had never. Heard of it played unreal

[@kenpremak6009]

The problem with Orangewood guitars is, they have no customer service. If you email them, they do not get back to you. I needed a replacement part and they just would not get back to me. I probably emailed them 3 to 4 times so I gave up.

[@JustOutHereTinkering]

In the blind sound test I liked the clarity and brightness of the Yamaha. The other 2 sounded muted and comparitively like you cranked the treble down on them

[@caustofoppi]

The best recommendation for a beginner guitarist is, NOT to order your guitar online! At the lokal shop you can touch the guitar, notice the string height, feel whether the body size is comfortable or not. You have the chance to compare many guitars, the shop employes are helping to make a decision. If you are a beginner and have no experiences, only the shop can make a setup to your guitar or can change the strings. By the way, the top of the guitar defines its tone. If you can choose between two models with the same specs except, one has a solid top, always choose the solid top guitar.

[@Thecherokee4x4]

I totally agree with you. However, they don't sell Orangewood guitars in stores. You can only buy online.. that sucks.

[@krejdloc]

​@@Thecherokee4x4I agree totally. I bought an Orangewood a few years back .I immediately liked everything about the guitar except the neck. Too wide.. too thick... Like the business end of a baseball bat. I decided to keep it thinking I would get used to it. Didn't happen and I rarely touch it. Had I been able to go to a store and try it I wouldn't have bought it regardless of the gig bag,and accessories.

[@nightwingvyse]

I agree, I bought my first Squire Strat online, but when it comes to acoustics that's something that needs to be more of a personal thing. My first acoustic was a used Guild GAD-30 that I got from my local music store who for some reason didn't have it even close to set up properly (not that I knew that at the time). I didn't think I had anything special until I got it professionally set up and realised I'd bagged an absolute bargain. I've had it 15 years and I've bought a Taylor 314 since (which I also bought used), but the Guild still gives it a run for its money despite the Taylor being over 3x the price tag. I'll never get rid of it. The point is that new players should definitely check out their local stores and try acoustics out before buying. It's a more personal choice than buying a first electric, but there are often options to buy used too which is strongly recommended for new players. Not only are they cheaper but older instruments have had time to open up and "figure out how to be a guitar" which usually improves them with age, and you have a better idea of its sound and playability in the long term.

[@casualemt]

My bandmate owned a music store, I could play multiple new guitars of the same brand and model, amazing the difference of playability between them! Always play an instrument before buying it..

[@rigelloar7474]

That's great advice ! Guitars are made of organic materials, and each one is different. If prospective beginners feel clueless, they should take an experienced player with them, if possible . . . . . .

[@rakentrail]

Back in the late 80's & early 90's I was "the repair guy" at a large independent guitar store. Our owner paid me to setup every new guitar we got before it ever hit the sales floor. Why? Because well setup guitars will sell themselves! Every beginner should get a pro setup on their guitar. It will play easier and sound better. Two things that can drive a beginner to practice MORE!

[@kryxhh]

I never understood the setup process. After saving for a year as a student, I finally spent MYR500 on an acoustic and the setup cost would have been about another 200, obviously I declined because didnt have the budget. When i asked them, the only thing i got was that they will adjust the action for more comfort. I figured i cant afford comfort for 200, so is that all or am I missing something here ?

[@rakentrail]

@@kryxhh In a setup the neck relief, string action, nut height and intonation also the frets will be levelled/crowned/ dressed as needed.

[@kryxhh]

@ i see. I've measured the neck relief, action (saddle+nut) with reference to guitar tech videos on youtube and it seemed to be in good levels already. IDK about intonation and the frets levelling tho. If its just comfort, i dont mind, im used to it atp

[@stratman1192]

During the initial play through, I chose guitar #3. It had a deeper overall tone with more depth. Turns out that was the Orangewood Rey. So based solely on tonality, I agree with Tony's choice. I also preferred the look of the Orangewood.

[@daleknight777]

Yeah I liked it as well. And the looks to of course.

[@guitarnotions]

Love that orangewood. The Orangewood guitars I have seen always have such a nice finish! Great guitars and the price is awesome!

[@casualemt]

Bought a Yamaha fg340 for $150 51 years ago, it lived on a boat for 10 years, been on many Mexico camping trips, played for hours and hours at a time…2 years ago I thought about buying a martin d35, brought my Yamaha into the shop to compare, to me the Yamaha played much better, had every bit as good sound, I even the sales guy compare them, he admitted the Yamaha played better, and the sound was comparable, his comment was that the Martin will get better with age..I passed on the $3000+ guitar..yesterday I took the Yamaha out of the case for probably almost 6-8 months (yes, I have other guitars) no lie, it was still in tune!! But all my Yamaha guitars are the same..they stay in tune! Highly recommend the brand!!!

[@BryanClark-gk6ie]

I bought one back in the mid 70's. Worst sounding and no volume acoustic I've ever owned. Ended up trading it for a Sunn Betta lead combo amp.

[@tedlivermore6955]

Exactly,cheap guitars are much better quality then they used to be.I was given a First Act acoustic guitar which I think can be bought for around 100$ I dont care what anyone says about how bad they are,i play it everyday it never goes out of tune,low string action,very playable.I would never pay thousands for any guitar.

[@Joe-mz6dc]

Excellent! Yamaha acoustics are brilliant.

[@HipsterDoofus100]

I have a Yamaha FG345 from the 80s that someone gave me. It still sounds awesome. I bought a Taylor, I forget the model but it sold for $899, last year. A few months later I bought a Yamaha AC1R for I think $599? The Yamaha sounded way better in every respect.

[@mypetdrgn]

Musta been all that salty air😂 cool story🌞

[@hotlov72]

Very warm sound to the Orangewood, best value out of all 3 too!

[@texhaines9957]

Thanks, Tony. 41K students, over how many years? I am one of them. The comparison is good, and I would agree with your pick out of this group. I have had good and not so good experience with Orangewood guitars, but they do have their place. See you later on Tony's Acoustic Challenge (TAC).

[@BobDorfman]

Guitar #2 sounded best to me initially, but by the end of the comparison, the Orangewood had my vote.

[@cugir321]

My favorite cheap guitar is an FS800 yamaha.....I went through a mess but found one with almost a perfect neck. It's better then most I've seen in 30 years....plays tuned down a whole step without adjusting. Sound is okay.....I can add stuff to make it a functional gigger....It's super easy to play. Been using it to play out with a magnetic pick up that has chorus, delay, reverb. Light delay gives it a big sound. My LL16 sounds alot better but not an easy play even with a fairly low action. That 25" scale length makes a huge difference for a new player. The scalloped braces do make the bass harder to control plugged in....the magnetic pick up takes care of that with the three eq settings on it. Other pickups were harder to control bass. You can thicken it up with a touch of delay. I may try a TC mimiq with it....the doubling can make a cheap guitar sound bigger and better. Has a solid top!!!! I paid 200.00 out the door. You can always get 10% off at GC by just asking. If not leave them!

[@dalesearcy5734]

I agree that the Orangewood was the overall winner. However for $229.99 you can get a great sounding Yamaha FS800. It has a solid top! It has a smaller body. The ones that I have played were set up very well.

[@norseman61]

I concur. It's worth a few more bucks to jump up to a solid spruce top Yamaha. That Orangewood is pretty sweet, though!

[@carlc2597]

FS800 with a setup, can’t beat it for the cost!

[@dennisbronson3058]

Agree 100% .........I bought one of these for my daughter ( a couple of years ago ). String action was a wee bit high so I did a slight adjustment on both the nut end and the saddle. ( Went slow and was careful ) Got it perfect. Whenever I'm over at her house, I love to take it down and play it for a while. ( basically .....it is an OM size guitar ) It has a wonderful sound. Yamaha not only used a good selection of spruce for the top......but......as far as I understand it.....they also 'scalloped' the braces on those guitars.😲 To me, they sound amazing. ( considering the price point ) I've been playing guitar for many years and the FS800 would be my recommendation for any beginner !!! ( especially a younger/ smaller person )

[@JohnMoseley]

Or if you want a dreadnought, an FG800 for around the same money. I have the FG800M (the M means matt finish) and I love it.

[@gordonbezanson4710]

Yamaha never fails . Best for the money in my experience.

[@stanlee-eq7lu]

Agree. I own an FG700S and an FG830. I took out my FG830 out one day recently but just let the 700 sit upright (stupid decision). It fell face forward, but only about 2 1/2 feet. I panicked. The old FG700S never was disturbed in the least bit. That guitar's built like a tank.

[@charlesbranch4120]

I agree. After buying my youngest a Yamaha FG730S for $300 in the early 2000s, she still has it and offered it to me to learn with, but the battleship size is not comfortable for me, so I began collecting in 2020, concert bodies (new) for $500 or less. Taylor Academy 12, 12e (to my SIL), Breedlove Pursuit Exotic Concert, until my first solid wood guitar came into this life, a Cole Clark Angel 2EC-RDBL auditorium body in 2022 (added a second in 2023 that had a beautiful figured back, and the newer preamp system). The latter list for $2500 MSRP. The Angels sing! I enjoy switching around, though. Given the workmanship, finish, and playability out of the box, the Orangewood El Rey has my vote.

[@asusreviews]

My pick was the Yamaha in the sound test, second orangewood, third fender. Yamaha had nice clarity, fender was buzzy, and orange wood had a bit of a shallow sound.

[@b80-s9i]

The clear warmth of number 3 had me from the get-go...and its great looking! Thanks for sharing bro💪😎👍

[@rvanstar]

Great vid. I preferred the sound of the Fender .. cheers

[@kevinjohnson5176]

I also thought the orangewood had the best sound and am glad to see and hear the difference. I bought a little more expensive orangewood guitar, but it's nice to know that it was a good choice. I will be checking out your link for learning the guitar. Thank you

[@robertjohnson9832]

I have a Fender CC-60S Mahogany. I really like the guitar. I had it setup soon after getting the guitar. I also have a Dreadnaught, but it is just too big. As far as your group. I thought the Orangewoo and the Fender were very cloose. Of course, I am very used tos the Fender souund. By the way, this is "sNot that Roberrt Johnson" and I still sorely miss the Acoustic Tuesday videos. Nice to hear from youu again.

[@jackclark1356]

This was an excellent review of beginner guitars. You touched on all the important points especially playability. All beginners should watch this. Kudos

[@jackflash5659]

The Yamaha sounded the best to my ears.

[@rogerdsmith]

What a difference 50 years makes. When I was in high school in the early 70s, my father got me a CONN dreadnought. It was Japanese made, solid spruce top with Brazilian Rosewood back and sides. That was a $200 guitar back then. Wish I still had that guitar.

[@Masail_Ivanich]

200$ is 2000$ now..

[@wushock92]

I'm tickled you chose the Orangewood. I just took delivery of the Orangewood Oliver Jr. Orangewood sets up each guitar before they ship them out. Now I need to get started on your guitar challenge.

[@faulkner63]

Man, thank you so much for this video! As a player, my brother asked me to source a beginner acoustic for his daughter and your review of the Orangewood Rey cutaway just sold us both! I might pick one up for my collection come to think of it Great stuff! Subscribed!

[@mypetdrgn]

A couple years ago I was looking for an acoustic… Orangewood kept rising to the top… ended up buying a higher end one based on your review… it’s a real nice gtr, with great setup and a really nice hard case👍🏼

[@jamiem.9443]

I thought the orangewood was tinny sounding. The yamaha I thought sounded the best by far... the fender sounded like it had a bit of fret buzz

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

I choose the Yamaha during the blind part of the video but my ears are drawn to more treble for some reason. The fender had to much treble for my ears. Great video planning and letting people choose based on sound alone as sound / tone can be subjective. The orangewood wins by far for eye test in my book lol.

[@KarmicSalt]

Loved the Fender in the blind and glad about that because I bought it and can't wait until this weekend to unbox :) The Orangewood one sounded weak to me

[@StevenJarrett1961]

I had an orangewood mahogany guitar and it sounded great. Gave it to a kid starting to play. I’ve played 3 from Orangewood and they all were set up great right out of the box. I’d love to see you do a review on a torrified guitar

[@RoofAndAMeal4UsAll]

In my guitar journey I learned after 20 years that cheap guitars had robbed me of the tonal qualities that actually lead to emotionally charged playing. Hearing one's own playing through a fine instrument, is of critical importance. As a lefty, I could never do this because there were no fine guitars available to play, anywhere near me, ever. As a righty, you CAN play fine instruments at any decent guitar shop and I highly recommend that you do. I had to buy a Martin before I understood.

[@jamesmaynard9472]

100% agree 👍 I did some work for an older gentleman who after talking too about guitars offered me his Gibson hummingbird (my lottery win)..... That's when I noticed what you described perfectly

[@robusto2000]

In Paris, there is a neighborhood just south of Montmartre and an only lefty guitar/bass shop called Le Gaucher (the Southpaw) on the guitar/music street. If you ever find yourself there, this is guitar mecca. There is also Lefty Guitars Only in MA...

[@roymeyer6837]

It's so good to see you reviewing and demoing guitars again! I've always found Fender acoustics harsh and grating, glad to know I'm not the only one who would describe them that way. Of the 3 guitars, at least based on how the mic picked them up, the Orangewood is the only one I could mistake for possibly having a solid top. Somehow they've managed to get a touch of woody sound into it, which is extremely impressive for an all-laminate guitar. Also might be worth noting: you mentioned any guitar can have a setup done for around $30-50. Part of the value with Orangewood is that you're getting that, before the guitar ships to you. They're made overseas but set up in their facility in California before they get sent to the buyer. For me, that makes it fair to compare a $250 Orangewood to a $200 Yamaha or Fender, and I'm sure at that price you can probably get a solid top.

[@markxbrooks]

Guitar 3 was the winner for me too. I’ve played super nice Fenders and Yamahas also though. Nice video!

[@lieut89]

I have had the Orangewood Morgan Mahogany Live for about 2 years now and bought another one for my oldest son last Christmas. Solid top with decent fishman electronics (if you want or need to plug in) for about $220. Every day player guitar that stays in tune. Really good guitars, and for the money, you cannot beat these. My go to everyday!

[@SongSecretsMomNeverTaughtYou]

Would love to see a $300-400 list next! Guild just released the 300 series last month and the OM-320 looks to be an amazing option!

[@tacguitar]

Great idea! I’m thinking about doing that.

[@samsaxetaller]

@@tacguitar Please test Yamaha FG/FS series with solid tops! Best value I've seen anywhere

[@SongSecretsMomNeverTaughtYou]

@@tacguitar I just received my OM-320 today and the sound that this thing makes in both tone and volume is jaw dropping! It sounds magnitudes more than the price tag!!

[@deemichelle]

Thanks very much for this great video; I wish I had known some of these things before I bought my first guitar. I did purchase a Cordoba Protégé from a reputable, well-known guitar store; but since I hadn't started taking lessons yet didn’t realize some of the things mentioned would be issues. First, I should have purchased a smaller guitar. The Cordoba Protégé was too big for me, a small framed woman and beginner. I got through six months of it being a challenge to use and purchased several smaller guitars. One was a Yamaha from Amazon (that I could've easily returned if I wasn't satisfied). The other was a Fender. Fortunately I'm very happy with both.

[@kmabarrettyt]

I bought my first guitar (ever) back in 2021. An Orangewood Austen for just under $200 (back then). I fell in love with it and now own a dozen low end guitars which I've purchased to get a "long-term" feel for the type. Is it better than going into a store? I think so. Even after 3+ years, I'm not experienced enough to judge a guitar by playing with it for 30mins (in store). I bought the Orangewood based on my price point (max $200) and generally good reviews online. I would like to try a cutaway eventually, but up to now I've really only played cowboy chords, so I don't have the need to go that high on the neck for a cutaway to make a difference. Anyway, Tony, this was a very good review and I'm glad Orangewood is still in the beginner price point market with a quality product.

[@VicRonson5150]

"You don't know what you don't know" Hahaha brilliant!! Nice review overall for beginners. If i were to consider going this low for a beat around campfire guitar my choice would also be the Orangewood, satin finish and the all important (to me) cutaway. Also it's not easy finding a straight up acoustic with a cutaway

[@joedonuts13]

I bought an Orangewood Mahogany Live last December. It was my first guitar and I love it. I had done a lot of research on TY. There were plenty of reviews for guitars under $500 and the Mahogany always had top rated reviews. I am very happy with my purchase, and I would recommend Orangewood to anyone looking for a quality acoustic that doesn't break the bank.

[@frankgerace5997]

I’m a beginner on guitar, and I have a Yamaha F335 acoustic, which I think is great. I have my eye on an Orangwood-a non-cutaway mahogany model that’s a bit smaller than my Yamaha. As I said, I like the Yamaha and I’m going to keep it, but I’m a smaller man and I think the Orangewood might fit me a bit better, size-wise..

[@ektalon1]

Curious if your take Tony is because you were playing the guitars and we are in front of them listening. It may be a function of a smaller body but the Orangewood sounded muffled and not projecting to me. On sound I would go with the Yamaha.

[@einerreklov4304]

I don't know. I like the looks of the Orangewood, but the projection, although warm, was a little low. The Yamaha had good projection and was bright, the Fender sounded meh. Maybe it's different in studio than on my PC speakers, or maybe I'm going deaf from listening to too much rock too loudly? All in all, I'd still pick the Orangewood and thanks for the review.

[@aurastudio2248]

I bought the Orangewood Rey based on this comparison review. Plays perfectly out of the box and far exceeds my expectations in terms of sound quality, playability, string tension, build quality, aesthetics, as well as fit and finish. Thank you for this awesome review!!

[@grbta1124]

Thanks i liked your approach. I also realize the variability that can exist but your recommendations were solid thanks for your time and effort!

[@Jeff-m5x3j]

Between me and, my daughter and granddaughter, we own four Orangewoods, ranging from the $165 Rey all the way up to the $1075 Sage Torrified Spruce Live. They are all excellent. Even though they are built overseas, they each come through Orangewood in California where they are set up before they are shipped to the customer, so they each were incredibly playable right out of the box. I am a big fan.

[@matthewharper9615]

I have an Orangewood Oliver Jr. Mahogany that I bought for my kids and I've been impressed with their build quality and the sound, even for a laminate top, it's been a solid guitar and I find myself playing it more than my Seagull S6. Good sound, set up well, great value for the money. Orangewood makes a decent guitar.

[@dylanwilson5787]

Oliver Jr Mahoganys are indeed SOLID tops! Enjoy 🎶🎵

[@garylehrer7610]

I like the Orangewood best also. It sounder deeper, mellower, warmer and much more pleasing overall. I totally agree with you.

[@Ed123-h7i]

I've never played a guitar in my life....but am going to. I picked the Orangewood from your blind tests...just because it sounded better than the other two. Add to that your comments about playability....and it's gonna be my pick for my first guitar.

[@Brykk]

This video really brings up a good point. To me, it seems like the last several years anyway, the larger brand name guitars seem to take advantage of their brand names a little. Like how the setups on the fender and yamaha are both dismal, as compared to the lesser name option. Like they expect buyers to be impressed with their name brand therefore overlook their deficiencies, where the lesser named guitar has better build quality and the setup better right out of the box.

[@nohillforahighstepper]

Honestly, I was slightly impressed with all. They are WAY better than what was available when I started, 40 years ago. I was gifted a nylon string classical acoustic from a pawn shop that my parents got for $30. That one lasted about 3 years and then I was on to bigger and better. When someone asks me to recommend a good starter guitar, I generally give them my least favorite acoustic. That opens up a spot for me to go guitar shopping! And it ensures that the new student is getting a "good" instrument...tried and true. 😊😊😊

[@bikerjon8934]

I'm new to guitar Could you recommend a good starter instrument? 🥹

[@nohillforahighstepper]

@bikerjon8934 I think I have an old Cordoba laying around somewhere. Come get it...

[@bikerjon8934]

@@nohillforahighstepper 😆

[@nohillforahighstepper]

@@bikerjon8934 🤣

[@Mr.PhatsVarietyVibesShow]

i knew right off the bat before anything happened the orange wood would be the best sounding

[@Fudgieguys]

I just purchased this Fender FA-135CE All-Mahogany Concert Acoustic-Electric Guitar. I had previously had the Rogue RD80, which is a dreadnought. I found it difficult to hold and play. I put it aside after my heart attack. Then I began to play again. The dreadnought was even more challenging to play. With the Fender, I am starting to enjoy playing again. Fits well and is comfortable to hold. I am still a beginner and have to learn all over again due to the heart attack. The price dropped from $349 to $199. Good price.

[@timothyhill9146]

Havent seen you for a while. Tim from Ohio, I had mentioned i saw you at breakfast in Colorado. I play as a hobby and get lazy but i purchased a three string open G cigar box guitar it totally re inspired me! Awesome electronics can be mellow or swampy loud!

[@CB-68-westcreations]

I was looking for a guitar that I could travel with and something I could tinker with while my other guitar was being serviced. Referencing that Orangewood REY guitar , I bought the spruce version of the one you have there first, then I bought one of those mahogany, then I bought the smaller parlor guitar, the sound across the board makes you wonder how they did it. Because it is a laminate top, but it just doesn't sound like a laminate top . I didn't notice any of that blue squeeze out that you found on the one you have, the action was a little bit higher than I liked, but they even included the Allen wrench to adjust the neck tension. So within five minutes, it was perfect. As far as that Yamaha 325 goes, they are hard to beat , although I wish they actually did a proper set up before they shipped them. That's gonna cost up to another $125 on average . But I'm so impressed with the durability of the Orangewood, I would give it first place if it was me choosing. I like the hard showcase with the fender, but that's the only plus it has going for it. They all sound like you're playing a dead log and you have to take a 400 grit sandpaper to the neck to break that gloss so it doesn't drive you crazy playing it. Anyone who asked me what guitar they should get for a beginner or a learning tool is automatically sent toward the Orangewood guitars, and I let them take a shot at playing one of mine. For someone who doesn't know any better, they're not gonna see a difference in the sound quality of that orange wood laminate top versus a solid , that comes with experience. They really are that good.

[@GusMoore-j7r]

I Think I like the Orangewood myself Too Brother, I had never Heard of Orangewood before but I’m pretty impressed… Thanks for the video!

[@mannishboy1]

The Orangewood is #3 (before you told us.) It has a nice lower mid bump.

[@LeeMaiden]

I haven't been able to play since my last big stroke, but you're making me want to break out my D28... Miss Martin is calling to me to never give up.

[@robusto2000]

Never give up, especially a passion. Open tune her, strum her and feel the healing of her vibrations. I sincerely bid you the best!

[@cookienorris8644]

At first I liked the brightness of the Fender. But the warmth of the Orangewood grew on me. I’ve lost 40-50% of my hearing at 62, so listening to other musician’s opinions means more to than it used to. Thank you!!

[@hazelisaacs2201]

High-gloss top finishes can reflect stage lights back harshly into an audience’s face giving unintended “flash /dazzle” which some people find distracting.

[@toddgreenwood9631]

Good test man. I was cheering for the Yamaha cause I've played a few and thought they were consistently 'good' and as a guitar teacher I always recommended them to people getting a first guitar or buying one for someone else as a gift (and I started making that recommendation 30 years ago and when their budget allowed for a little more wiggle room I would recommend a Tak because of the pickup but I do not reccomend Takamine today because their high end stuff is beautiful but there low end stuff does not compete with the Yamies for cool factor or sound and build quality for a living room guitar) . You did an excellent job presenting the guitars and I learned the sound of each guitar right away during the blind test. I thought the Fender sounded like a Fender but then when I heard the richer sounding guitar I assumed it was the Yamaha but was surprised to see it was the Orangewood.

[@SeadartVSG]

I have a. Orangewood Morgan Cutaway live. It has a solid top and costs about $250 new. I bought it as a beach/travel/grandkids coming to visit/ couch guitar. I was not expecting much and was pretty overwhelmed by how well it's put together and how nice it plays. I get a lot of comments from singers how they like how the tone doesn't detract from their voice,;I've made three or four demo videos playing the Orangewood Morgan on real songs that are on my channel so you can judge how goodf the mahogany guitars sound, even when played by a hack.

[@mitchmatthews6713]

I've always loved Yamaha guitars. I've recommended the F310/F325 to a lot of people. I call them the Poor Man's Martin. The sound test at the end confirmed my choice. The Yamaha had that "boom" that i want from a Bluegrass rhythm guitar. Great video, sir!

[@tjstevens001]

I have to go with the pro. You are the one playing it. I should try and Orangewood sometime

[@clydeortego8332]

Great Reviews and my pick was the orange wood also.

[@coegj]

I picked number 3 right off after the second or third play through, just liked the sound. I'm glad to see it ended u[ being the Orangewood guitar, I've always read good reviews from them. This is a very good guitar review, thank you.

[@gypsygirl731]

These are good notes to note. I got a giannini 12 string for my 2nd guitar rosewood. Had a groove on the side to fit right over my leg. Only 6 were sent from Brazil to east cost of usa. I was 17 and lucky to have that. My 1st guitar was at age 13 was 13$ got me thru basics. I hated strings far off the frets to this day i still have hard fingertips from the pressing on the strings. I'd have to pick one live in person. Thank you for honest point out reviews.i liked the 1st guitar as the base e string sounded louder to me.

[@TheMidnightModder]

My guess is #1 is the Fender, #2 is the Yamaha, and #3 is the Orangewood. 1 has a lot of treble, but it really rings out nicely. 2 is more balanced, but doesn't bloom as much as 1. And 3 just doesn't ring or bloom at all, which is common in Orangewood guitars because they apply so much clear-coat to their guitars. Edit: So I mixed up the other two, but I got the Orangewood right 😂

[@anthonyb2334]

Hello Tony, I think the Yamaha sounds a bit fuller BUT it’s bigger than the Orangewood. From my experience Orangewood sells a very playable guitar , especially for beginners. I owned an Orangewood Oliver ( solid top) and was extremely impressed, used it as a travel guitar for a year. I’m an “ old guitar picker “, over 60 years playing, and over 200 various guitars owned, from $200 to $4000. In the $200 price range the Orangewood with a case and their setup is the best bet to me. For a little more, the Yamaha FS or FG800 ( but no case and needs a setup), for a little more Eastman makes some surprisingly nice guitars with good setups and soft cases. Anyway, that’s just my opinion . I appreciate your knowledge and videos.

[@rickkaylor8554]

Good reviews. I got an Orangewood Rey (Spruce) about 5 years ago as my "beater" guitar to take camping. I looked at other guitars that were cheap - like Fender and Yamaha but choose the Rey. I've been really happy with it since it is a good guitar for the price. It is well made and the action was really good right from the factory. It sounds ok and would be a good beginner guitar. If I play it next to my Taylor 814ce I can see why the Taylor cost a lot more. My first Rey was damaged in shipping and Orangewood quickly replaced it. They have great customer service.

[@robusto2000]

Tony!!!! Love your course and, after a sabbatical, am starting back up. Okay. I preferred the projection of the Yamaha. Mind you, I have 3 Yamahas and was floored by my last, an FG 830 SB. I know it wasn't included in this comparison but I don't think I am too biased about my choice. I have a Martin D-18 I bought used in 1975 that is second to none, as well as an Art and Lutherie AE that your lesson ecouraged me to try an open D tuning on...and it has not gone back. Great review; you know I checked the inside of my guitars for tidy finish an none found. Thanks, again, for the review and your caring approach to playing better acoustic guitar!

[@arthurmabeejr8752]

These are great tips, again! I was impressed not only with the accessory pack but, it being a cut-a-way guitar and it being around the $ 165.00 dollar price tag is great for the OrangeWood with it's satin finish. I think the sound is a more vibrant sound in the treble strings and I usually select a guitar based on that sound. I think they all sound decent but, the OrangeWood I think won out??! Maybe I'm wrong? As far as a guitar being gloss finish, I usually use my chstom arm sleeve and sometimes I just use long sleeve shirt, this will keep the finish from sticking to your skin. I have mostly classical guitars so, I use my arm sleeve to help protect the guitar finish and it does not come in contact with my skin. My guitars are too high end guitars so, I can't take a chance on my finishes: Cordoba, Alvarez and Gibson are my high end guitars. I'll soon be 63 and played guitar since I was 9 years old, I switched choices of my type of guitars because the plastic strings on the treble are easier on my fingertips as I've aged. The 6 string steels were cause me more pain in my finger joints.

[@fgreen411]

Orangewood has the Oliver model, a 000 or concert sized body with a solid mahogany top, with the accessories and gig bag, on sale right now. $167 plus tax. But you may need to order it directly, not through Amazon.

[@edwardippoliti626]

Yes , playability, and ease of playing is a great idea, but yet i was tought to learn to play on a bear , and then move up gradually, this will help you appreciate the better action guitar , but this is speaking in terms of electric guitars , so i thought the Fender to be the best choice for a very first guitar , then move up , but if not if it's too hard to play , don't want to spoil the beginner either ! Great video , thank you !

[@aceofspace99]

I have a Fender 12-string and I recognized #2 as the Fender right away. My 12-string has similar issues. I agree with him about the Orangewood. That's a nice guitar.

[@southfork67]

I’m seeing a lot of Orangewood online and a year ago I hadn’t even heard of them. That said I’m also seeing a number of them used on marketplace with cracked tops or binding popped off.

[@markuhart8850]

Listening to the three unmasked guitars at the beginning I really liked #3, which was the Orangewood del Rey. The tone was nice and mellow. The others were too tin sounding on strings GBE. I also like the cutaway body because it makes playing the highest frets easier. It’s also small and more comfortable. For a small guitar I was really surprised with the rich tone and depth. Thanks for making this video.

[@oomar3450]

Dude when are you going to get around to the Martin Killer - K Yairi ???

[@wamgoc]

Great video Tony!!!!👏👏👏

[@nightwingvyse]

This video brought to you by Orangewood..... Seriously though, I certainly prefer the look and finish of the Orangewood by a very wide margin, but in the blind sound test I found myself preferring the Yamaha. It's hard to say for sure without hearing them in the room with you though.

[@patmurray9730]

I owned a Orangewood and I REALLY liked it. After YEARS of trying to learn to play. It was the first guitar that I actually learned on.

[@bikerjon8934]

17:36 Price, comfort, playability to overall sound... don't leave out visual beauty.

[@bikerjon8934]

19:02 IMO the best looking one in the bunch.

[@multi-purposebiped7419]

I picked number three in the blind test for the best and number one for the worst. So yes, I agree with you on the Orangewood. With one and two you could hear the strings, more so with one. Three you could hear the wood. What you didn't mention was that three is a GA shape and a cutaway, which makes a double difference to the sound. Not necessarily better or worse, just different. For info, I'm a Martin D18er.

[@michaelfitzpatrick5185]

One reason the Fender and Yamaha are louder is due to the high action. (and louder does not always mean better sounding). The lower action on the Orangewood will result in lower volume and their tops tend to be thicker which makes them more durable but slightly less resonant. The amount of volume is probably not as important as the tonal response and for a beginner having a guitar setup properly right out of the box is important for a budget guitar and saves the cost of setup for a less playable guitar.

[@cliffwright9842]

I've bought 3 of those accessory kits from OW. The capo is excellent, and the tuner is really touchy any accurate. I have and gave one each to my granddaughters.

[@rockydaleo6998]

I have a Martin and two orangewood guitars. Both orangewood guitars are solid top and laminate sides. I love all three equally.

[@johnberry8117]

The Orangewood did sound amazing. But I am still partial to my Yamahas . My Trans acoustic n my A3m are both Excellent sounding instruments. But I have to agree with you about your pick.😊

[@worthmoremusic]

The Orangewood Rey is $130 on Orangewood's website. I have an Orangewood Oliver Mahogany Live. Have had it for a few years now and paid about $225 then.. Phenomenal guitar and all Orangewood comes with either a gig bag or a hardcore.

[@rusherthapa9413]

I'm an intermediate guitarist and as from my experience i found out orangewood fits my all requirements perfect body and has a cutaway design which i look for and sounds is also quite warm and balanced out of all guitar.

[@shalako1047]

I have an Orangewood, next model up from this one. It was on sale, I paid $200+ for it. Bought it to be a travel guitar and it ot has not disappointed!

[@carlc2597]

I bought a Yamaha FS800 in 2017 or 18 for 199$ at my local Ted Brown. Went in to buy some electric strings, wandered over to the acoustic room and saw guitars under 200. I had no idea you could get an acoustic that cheap so I started playing everything +or- 200$. Eventually a sales guy comes over to assist and I asked him to explain the differences between the lower priced and higher priced guitars, brand differences, sizes etc, . I then asked which one he would buy if he was looking for a 200$ guitar and he said the Yamaha FS800, which is the one I had picked. He said for budget acoustics, Yamaha can’t be beat, and I think I agree. Bought one for my grandson with a pro setup from Sweetwater and he loves it, doesn’t even play his Fender Squier anymore. Plus it has a solid spruce top and is concert size, much more comfortable than a dreadnaught for me. Worth twice the price at least.

[@JahLives]

I picked the Orangewood in the blind test. They are by far the best low-cost guitars on the market.

[@dougww1ectebow]

I picked #3 also. The first two sounded to me about the same. The orange wood was just sas you described tone wise and I liked it also.

[@calvincosby921]

My pick is also the Orange Wood. Thank you. This is very informative.❤

[@jabomiles6947]

I bought my grandson an Orangewood Rey. I was very impressed with it for that price range.

[@MrMagic8999]

I thought the Orangewood had a nice warm sound.Both the Yamaha and Fender sounded tinny!