Yamaha AES-500NS

[@darrylturpin37]

Hi Don. What preamp/rig/recording rig are you running through for this demo? Also have you had a chance to play similar constructed guitars such as Godin, Carvin Cl450, or the Buscarino Starlight nylon?

[@Bluesgtar]

Hello. Thanks for watching. On this video I'm using a Sennheiser e609 to mic the VVT Blue Belair into my camera via the Panasonic DMW-XLR1 XLR Microphone Adapter. Before I had the camera interface I was recording into logic using an Apogee Duet which sounded great but was a bit more complicated. I haven't had a chance to play any similar style classical guitars. I'm sure the Carvin or the Buscarino would sound better unplugged but they are also a bit expensive. This Yamaha sounds great plugged in and the build quality is exceptional. The problem is they are a bit scarce much like the Carvin. As you can probably tell, I'm not a classical guitarist but I do enjoy playing the guitar. I hope this info was helpful and thanks so much for subscribing to my channel. Best, Don

[@darrylturpin37]

@@Bluesgtar Thank you for the details. It is a an exceptional audio/video representation of that guitar; along with your playing and style/technique. The Yamaha, Carvin, and Buscarino are indeed rare. I just happened on the Yamaha, while looking at the others. It’s half the price of the Carvin and 1/10 that of a Buscarino, but the latter is the pennacle of this style. My playing partner has the Starlight and it is phenomenal. There is little video or audio demos of the Carvin and only a couple offer any encouragement they might be worth a try. I have a AC275 and it is great. There are quite a few videos of the two Yamaha nylon version. Almost all the samples of them instill some confidence this is a solid performer. I’m going to seek out one for myself. Thank you again.

[@Bluesgtar]

Are you in the US ? There is a Yamaha AES-500NS for sale at Musicgoround in St Louis. They have it listed for $499 + $65 shipping. That's not bad since I've seen them as high as $750..

[@darrylturpin37]

@@Bluesgtar Thank you I actually just ordered it this morning. The MGR listing, is the reason I was doing the background research when I found your demo. It was a neat coincidence you remarked about it, then I saw your video was made only a month ago. I was a little reluctant as B Band isn’t in business anymore and I had to repair one years ago in another Yamaha (APX5NA), but I believe the issue with that one was the transducer ribbon lead was not long enough and caused it to fail at the connector. I later had it fail again and then gutted the electronics and installed a LR Baggs Element VTC. It’s a shame that B Band went away because I think they made nice sounding pickups.

[@darrylturpin37]

Sent it back. Overall, it did not work with my musical style and tone. I play very ambient styled acoustic instrumental. The tone was more nylon string electric guitar. This guitar in particular needed some serious setup work. The most significant of which was it needed a new saddle and more neck relief; the truss was backed out fully. I did the less invasive work, but it needed more intense neck work and, since it simply would not work for me, I sent it back. I think the guitar is very good for the right style, just not me.