Yamaha Red Label FGX5 and FSX5 | Best Acoustic Guitars of the year?!

[@dancolley4208]

I've owned 2 Yamahas in the past, one in the mid 1970s that cost $250 at a pawn shop (in 1976!!!) The other was purchased in 1980. Both were FGs with red labels. and had wonderful sound that got better over time. Sadly, both were destroyed in a hurricane that wiped out my apartment. I never had need of another guitar because of a bone injury in my left index finger. Now, surgical techniques have improved so much that now I have had full range of motion in my finger. Now, I can finally play again, after 40 years!!! I am going to get a guitar and as you might guess, it will probably be a Yamaha. The Japanese guitar sounds so much better to my ear than the Chinese-made one. Thank you for this video and its predecessor. Both videos were informative and likely will prevent me from making a buying mistake. Thanks once again.

[@valebliz]

Go get one! I have a rather cheap FS 830 and even that one sounds wonderful, amazing value for money.

[@glorioskiola]

I have a one year old FG830, it’s gorgeous and sounds better and better every day. I’ve had my heart set on a Taylor, but I’m changing my mind. I also have a 1969/70 Yamaha classical guitar that I have moved around with, even Las Vegas NV for many years. Never took care of proper humidity, (single digits most of the year) etc. and it’s still in great condition.

[@festushaggen2563]

I have an FG730s. It sold itself at the music store. I couldn't believe how well it held up against much more expensive guitars. Beautiful and bright full body sound. Yamaha makes quality instruments.

[@transcendenttv]

Hey that’s a great feel good story man! And he’s I agree re the Japanese guitar vs. Chinese.

[@BHC-Btown]

In 1971 I gotta Yamaha FG - 170..........that guitar went with me to Vietnam...........it’s gotta piece of shrapnel on the bout.......... it was a good beginners guitar.......... I remember Country Joe from country Joe and the fish playing a Yamaha at Woodstock............you’re so right those Red Labels Yamaha’s are something............I love the way they play.......... stay frosty

[@gillesserrigny6324]

At Woodstock, Country Joe Mc Donald played a pretty good 000, Fg 150.

[@JapanInsight]

I've worked in the Japanese manufacturing field since the late 1980s, and worked as a Lean-Manufacturing consultant from the mid-90s. No one in the world is better at producing quality products at a minimal cost, often accomplished by the Japanese knack for harmonizing technology with the human/craftsman element in their manufacturing operations. Add to that a built-in cultural obsession with details, and you end up with high quality stuff at a reasonable cost. This is why I will ONLY buy guitar models made in Japan...where I currently live. :)

[@jed1166]

I agree, so my current go-to is a Takamine P4DC. However, I bought an Eastman E6D, built in China,(where I currently live), and it is stellar! I have been in the Eastman factory in Beijing, and can attest that these are built by genuine craftsmen, some of whom have worked there for 15 years.

[@iyorit1089]

I have FS5,but I'm surprised by the tension, balance and volume that doesn't seem like a short scale.It’s a class that can compete with Martin's OM.The YAMAHAFG series, also known as the Red Label, is very famous in Japan.About half a century later, it has been reborn as an all-solid body with the development of the top board ARE.I would like many people to play the guitar, which can be said to be a compilation of YAMAHA FG's long-standing technical capabilities.If possible, I'd like to start with this 5 series made in Japan with detailed specification 🙇🏻‍♂️🇯🇵

[@transcendenttv]

Totally.

[@williamkenny6383]

I have a degree in manufacturing engineering and agree with you. We studied Japanese process and manufacturing in fine detail. I have since worked in the industry with companies who want to achieve the same quality, production #'s, durability etc.. What these companies do not understand is what you describe. The Japanese do not achieve all of this because of low labor cost, abundant natural resources, or some unfair advantage. Their culture is one of pride, respect, status which is earned and much more. They take care of their elders and have a deep sense of pride in family and family name which means they think about how their actions could bring shame to not just them but also their family. When one person succeeds the family succeeds. This is what we are missing here where our older generation is tossed aside and kids are kicked out of homes when they turn 18. We have a nonsensical idea that everyone needs to make it on their own and suffer while doing which leads to selfish behavior and a disrespectful attitude towards employers, freinds, family, drive to succeed, everything. When you know your family is there for you, you then understand that you also need to be there for them and not bring any shame upon them. This and so much more is why they have such great attention to detail and drive to succeed and perfect. It's something you cannot bring to U.S. companies and culture. I've been at places where it's almost impossible to get employees to even work as a team and that the first step. It's the me, me, me attitude here that nobody else matters attitude that is destroying this country You'd think that being so selfish would mean that there would be a drive to succeed individually but combine it with a lack of respect for everyone and you get a country of people who think everything should he given to them or where every child wants to be a youtube Star instead of an engineer, chemist or doctor and you wind up with a country who can't find enough employees to fill jobs and inflation, highest prison population, no family structure, etc... you end up with this country. The U.S.

[@georgefenning4844]

Well said. I agree

[@nickfew9241]

I've watched hundreds of thousands of guitar - related videos. How to play songs, purchase guitars, fix guitars, guitar collections etc etc etc... As far as informational video formats go, Alamo Music and Chris McKee's are the best I've come across. He is straightforward, well-spoken, very knowledgeable and honest. Thanks Chris, and keep up the good work!

[@BangDoMusic]

Just tried it this morning, I cannot forget how it feels, how warm and touching it sounds, strike right to my heart. But the price is ... holy bucket !! Probably this is the best acoustic I ever played !

[@ed_music1834]

I was able to get an FS5 and its absolutely phenomenal. The sound and craftsmanship is just top notch. I'd really recommend you getting one when its available. Don't hesitate! Edit: Chris if ever you come across this comment, it is because of you and this video that I got into Yamaha. Thank you very much and I'm really having fun with this awesome guitar. Thanks in advance.

[@mr.b111]

It's not that they should be more expensive, but the instruments from the big american brands should be less expensive.

[@dionst.michael1482]

Exactly! They are out of their bleeding minds some of the prices on exotic wood guitars these days. Thank God for Yamaha acoustic guitars!

[@Johnkostercreative]

Love your "authentic" commentary. Yamaha has been making great guitars for many decades, I've got one from the early 70's that sounds wonderful.

[@carlmcguire2935]

Took me 7 months to get my FG 5. It is quickly becoming my go to guitar and I have (5) to choose from... Very happy with finally getting one.

[@emmawebber9438]

I really was laughing out loud with the, 'Play authentic', jibe at Gibson; I am just glad I was inbetween sips of my morning cup of tea :-D . Did send you a message on Sunday, Chris, regarding the address for my t-shirt, so I hope you got that. Have a great week :-) .

[@stanleyderochea8524]

I just ordered mine today. Very excited and anxiously waiting for them to be released

[@davidbothof1077]

I just tested a Yamaha FGX5 and Martin D10e back to back, and man, I kept going back to the Yamaha. Granted, they were both new and that Yamaha has that "atmosphere" treatment, but still... I haven't stopped thinking about the Yamaha since.

[@karltraunmuller7048]

Go Yamaha! I own 4 Yamaha acoustics by now, and I love em all.

[@jesseskeen9882]

I played one at my local guitar store after watching this video and I am sold. I played this side by side with the Taylor ad17, Taylor 214 and quite a few other more expensive guitars and kept coming back to the FGX5

[@wootton900]

I'm using high end monitor headphones and I can hear the thump and tone coming out of that guitar !! I agree these sound special

[@3cardmonty602]

I walked into a local GC in NJ several years ago. I came across a very old Yamaha FG-200. I don’t think GC knew what they had. I bought it for $140. Took it home and found out it was from 1973. It needed a neck reset and a new fretjob, which I promptly performed by myself. Some of the tuners screws needed reseating. I oiled the tuners. I also put a Tusq Nut and Saddle on it and it BOOMS like a cannon. I’ll never ever part with it. It plays so beautifully. Martin, Gibson, and Taylor fans - you’re gonna be shocked at these guitars if they come anything close to my 1973 FG-200.

[@sugarlife485]

dreammmmmm onnnnnn

[@boo-leeproductionsinc3501]

Yep, I bought a 1974 Garcia classical for $80.00 at a Guitar Center years ago. To be fair, it was a little banged up, but it was a $3500 concert grade guitar new, and made from exotic woods.

[@discgolfprofessor]

3 Card Monty , I've owned 3 FG-200's and you are correct, they are Cannons. I also own an FG-180 currently and it's awesome as well. Maybe a little more well rounded balance from highs to low, and warmer treble tones, BUT All of the FG-200's I owned had the most Bass of ANY Dreadnaught guitar I've ever played. Both excellent in they're own way honestly.

[@auramac]

Their.

[@pickettmandi]

@@discgolfprofessor i just bought a fg295s and it sound great!

[@Yaketyyak21]

I have just bought a Yamaha fg3 ,and I can tell you without any prejudice that it’s the best sounding guitar I have ever owned,it rings like a bell,and I also own a Martin omjm,a Gibson j45 and two high end guilds...

[@AlamoMusic]

Thanks for sharing!

[@haldumille5594]

I bought one of these great guitars a couple of months ago! It has an excellent, well balanced tone and plays like butter. It is extremely responsive to attack and for me, it just makes me wanna play. Brand new guitar and it already had a song in it waiting to come out! This guitar inspires me to play and compose, and that is the highest testament I can give any instrument. Great value for money as well. And yes, it does sound better in person than online, for sure. Great presentation of this fine acoustic.

[@AlamoMusic]

Thanks! Glad you liked it!

[@podfuk]

This guitar is highly addictive!

[@kowalski4734]

Brillant demo. A remake of an icon, custom shop quality and a fair price. Damn great stuff....made in Japan

[@rorobinou2810]

Just got one yesterday and can't stop playing. Really good deal for the price indeed. Thanks so much !

[@waynearmstrong6718]

Curious as too how long it took to arrive once you ordered it?

[@dougwebster1813]

Back in the 70's I went to several music stores in Austin, Tx. to find a great acoustic guitar and tried them all! I kept coming back to the Yamaha FG's because of there balanced tone. You can put them up against almost any guitar but when you see the price difference there just isn't any comparison.

[@transcendenttv]

Totally agree with you, but I include old J200s, Hofner 491s and 70s Guilds along with Yamaha FGs. Stellar guitars.

[@AC2N]

This manufacturer’s mid-range and high-end product is never disappointing, both in terms of sound, finish and durability. at always very attractive prices in relation to quality.

[@TheDMTLover]

Bought a Yamaha in 1982 maybe 1983, (FG-411). I still play it with a X2DOUBLE pickup. The FGX/FSX series makes sense to me. It adds that twist that people do not expect in a living room or outside cuz it's not plugged in. :-) It's hard not to use the effects once you have them.

[@joejonfitzpatrick]

Just ordered the FGX5 because of this vid. Cheers.

[@Steven-Duffy]

Hey Joe. How is the Guitar dude? I was thinking of ordering the FGX5

[@peterurban7594]

This guitar tops everything out there on the market (new)!!! I own a Yamaha guitar, these guitars no mater where they where built they sound great! Now this model was built in Japan and yes that makes a difference at least to my ear.

[@theblytonian3906]

Lovin' the FSX5. AUD$2149 best price locally. Worth it though, no doubt. Nevertheless, unless Fortuna smiles my way, my Yamaha Indonesia crafted APX600 will have to do. In any case, I consider myself blessed given the design, performance and build quality of it at its price point. As guitarists in 2020, we are living a time of incredible opportunity in terms of instrument affordability and accessibility that would have seemed inconceivable fifty years ago.

[@tleek]

Ive had an FS5 for a year or so. It’s definitely one of my favorite guitars I’ve ever played. I was going to go with a Martin 000 but I really enjoyed this Yamaha more. I don’t know why they are still so under appreciated. These are on par with any Martin, Taylor, etc I’ve played (just the standards). I do really like larrivees and would like to add one to the stable one day, but these little yammys are amazing.

[@matthewi.minnick5845]

To all those who complain of the pickup sounding bad, I'm not sure what was going on in the early examples of this demo, but it sounds better later. With my FGX5, I get the best plugged in tone with the bass at 1 o'clock and the mic blend also around 1 o'clock.

[@paulkline3011]

I recently got a Yamaha FG800. I own 2 Martin's and I like the Yamaha more and it was way cheaper than my Martin's. I can't even imagine how nice the FGX5 must be Because the FG800 is a phenomenal guitar for the price.

[@joshvowles]

Just bought a fgx5 today. Had been researching for ages and thanks to the recommendation of this channel, the FGX5 and FSX5 popped on my radar. Local music shop order one of each in so I got to play both. I've been looking for ages, and other than a much more expensive martin (eg d-18) nothing else came close to the Yamahas. I decided on the FGX5, sounds great right out of the box.

[@lybarger007]

What about the fsx5 made you lean more to the fgx5?

[@joshvowles]

@@lybarger007 Just the size and how it felt. I'm a bigger guy so it felt more comfortable to play especially sitting. Both sounded great, the FGX5 had more oomf at the low end like you'd expect from a dreadnaught.

[@flake-49-shino]

I'm in love with the sound of that FS5, sounds just beautifully balanced. Can't wait to pick up mine without the pickup... if they are ever back in stock here in Germany.

[@AlamoMusic]

Good choice!

[@gofres]

I ordered one from thoman about 9 months ago. It's just come into stock!

[@normandodson5079]

Thanks for all your reviews of the different guitars! They help a ton.

[@TWC6724]

So I thought I was settled on getting a Taylor A12, but I just can't get over how good this guitar sounds. It's more money, but wow, that's the sound I'm going for.

[@DonAlderOfficial]

The FSX5 rocks have been using it on tour as a solo guitarist

[@kingfisher5150]

Someone commented they wouldn't want a guitar that says Yamaha on it. I have a Martin, a Taylor and 2 Takamines. My Yamahas blow then and every other guitar I've ever owned away! Sold my Breedlove to pay for my LL16-12. No regrets!

[@jimsteele2072]

I would have told that dude, that I try to remove any advertisement the manfacturer adds to everything I own. I hate labels..... Havent removed them from my guitars but if they fell off I wouldn't mind. I could see the look on his face now...😮

[@manubarreto9376]

You got it right ! I prefer my A3R over a Martin I previously owned too ... great great sounds and the frets just slide !!! fantastic !!!

[@IndigoJo]

I think it's because the name is heavily associated with cheap student models. It could be said that they did their brand name no favours by putting it mostly on cheap instruments.

[@georgefenning4844]

My 50 year old Yamaha . Confuses the gs mini b& Breedlove players . It makes holes in banjos and the bass tone is out of this world . They can’t believe it’s a Yamaha .

[@timothyalexander566]

Hello from Canada 🇨🇦 Love your videos and all the reviews. 55 and just decided a month ago to learn how to play. Going to be making a purchase soon. Can't wait. Keep up the great videos. Just one thing. I know you play lots of softer stuff, would like to just once see you pound on the strings😁👍🇨🇦🇺🇸

[@HooksBill]

Thanks for sharing. My first guitar was a Yamaha back in 1986. I'm a Martin owner today and not a brand snob by any means. I've played models from all the top manufacturers. Some I loved, some just didn't impress me. Regardless of price tag. This sounded nice.

[@anthonyroach7974]

Great demo loved it ..I’m not a acoustic player put would have one of those ..takes me back to that beautiful acoustic guitar sound of the sixties ..Gorgeous guitars

[@rickycarter7154]

Hi Chris, I'm with you Totally enamored with these guitars). I own the FG5 and the 50th anniversary FG180. Both are phenomenal. I really want the FSX5 next. These guitars are made so fine and sound great. I started back in 1971 with a new FG180. It also was MIJ. It was nice and the only guitar my dad gave me, but I must say these new ones are better (for me). Thanks for your video. SWEET!

[@PinkDevilFish]

How do you feel about the fg180 50th vs the old one? I have an 69 fg180 but the action is incredibly high now so looking to upgrade. Do you prefer you fgx5 or 180?

[@rickycarter7154]

@@PinkDevilFish HI PDF, I like them both. The fg180 50th anniversary feels like the old 180, (chunky neck), but the solid woods and new bracing make it sound even better. The fg5 will be a lot easier to find. It has a satin finish and thinner neck, plays great and sounds like an old guitar. Both have torrefied tops (A.R.E.) Hope that helps. I think either of these would be a step up from the original 180.

[@PinkDevilFish]

@@rickycarter7154 thanks. That does help. I might have to find an fg5 and try it out. My brother has a taiwain fg180 red label I stole from him earlier today with a mich lower action so that will sate me as I decide which to upgrade to. Thanks for your insight.

[@rickycarter7154]

@@PinkDevilFish Anytime, Us hopeless guitar people can always use a little help. Good luck!

[@markfaustkingofheart]

I watched your video and went out and got me a Japanese made model , I love it , can’t say enough about how great it sounds. The finish is so good , love it!

[@teladan5]

I recently bought the FSX5, partly because of this video. I already have an LL16, so I wanted the smaller body. I also like that the back and sides are a different tone wood, and that the nut and saddle are bone. Love both guitars, but the FSX5 is simply awesome.

[@teladan5]

As a follow-up, I play guitar on the worship team at our church. With the sound man, we played with the microphone/pick-up dial and found that we loved it all the way to mic. Sounded more natural to us. I also had a set-up done. The action was high when I received it, and now it is a joy to play.

[@mynamesjondowell]

How is it for strumming? I love a good dreadnought but I like to be comfortable sitting and playing. I

[@teladan5]

Not booming like a dreadnought, but still excellent. It’s the one guitar that I really want to play each day.

[@barondavis5692]

Which is your go to, LL16 or FS?

[@davidp540]

So I have the FGX 720 SCA, made in 2011, I bought it end of 2011 or early 2012. This has the same specs as the FG/FS - solid spruce top/mahogany sides - and I can tell you so durable, it is as new all of 13 years later and still plays beautifully! Lovely long resonance, easy playing, quality tone that stays and stays, it's magic plugged into an amp or more usually without! Go Yamaha!!

[@BobVermaes]

I enjoy all your reviews. I've had an FG 150 and a FG 180. The FSX 5 appeals to me.

[@jamesmorrison2063]

After I saw this video I bought a FSX5. Alamo didn't have any left in stock or I would have got it from them. I'm so happy with it. I have Martin and Taylor Dreadnoughts and Jumbos. I sold my 000X1, (USA made). The FSX5 is my exclusive fingerpicking guitar. Thanks Chris for this demo.

[@ShawnYoung1000]

Can it hold it's own while strumming?

[@jamesmorrison2063]

@@ShawnYoung1000 It can, but I have other guitars for that, unless it's already on my lap.

[@jobcentrepuss7545]

Nice review. The range of styles demonstrates the guitars very well.

[@ShamanicSavant]

Nice guitars. I think the Japanese made Yamaha and Takamine guitars are the best deals out there. I own two MIJ Taks and I'd put either of them up against any Martin or Taylor costing twice as much and just smile :)

[@kingdom777866]

Ha ha !! Your a dreamer. !! Ha ha. !!

[@valebliz]

@@kingdom777866 and you’re a sucker

[@tbeau6663]

That's the best unplugged strumming tones I've heard from these 5 series guitars

[@ishina7525]

i think fsx5 so good for fingerpicking😍sounds gorgeous

[@Sci-Que]

Trying to find the right words to express my impression of the tone of this guitar, I found I didn't have those exact right words, so suffice it to say, this guitar is absolutely on my bucket list.

[@stacylangford2859]

Your playing has improved dramatically. It's getting some 'feel'. I have my heart set on the ll16d. These guitars sound awesome. Thanks for the video!

[@dionst.michael1482]

They're just so frikkin gorgeous. I love the look of these classics so much. They look like the quality guitar that they end up being. Beautiful. Talk about bang for your buck! I LOVE acoustic Yamaha's! Affordable luxury ❤❤❤

[@jsk8drummer]

Gota say that while I always liked the mic’d sound better in all your reviews, I think the sound of these Yamahas plugged in blows away the ES2 in any Taylor video I’ve heard and I’d say it beats any of Martins factory pickup offerings too but by a narrower margin. Unplugged these red labels will hang with the best of them. I own a Taylor 322ce V class and it’s an amazing instrument but one of these Yamahas or maybe a ac5r will be my next purchase. I wish there was a red label version of the ac5r with the v shape headstock and a 1 3/4” nut. That would be absolute perfection.

[@scottperry8162]

Wow those are awesome sounding guitars I'm very impressed

[@stephan4985]

Superb guitars! However, it would have helped me to have listened to the same playing on both guitars. Very helpful either way, thanks!

[@Dragon_rls]

Excellent performance 👏. Great video. You are a fantastic guitarist. Thanks for posting 👍👍👍

[@wiggokarlsen2976]

Hi, Chris, nice vid as always. Yamaha guitars brings back sweet memories, or maybe bitter-sweet. This is my story. In the summer of '72 I was 15, and had just bought my first guitar, a Yamaha. Definately not a red label, my income was too limited, but nevertheless a Yamaha, think I paid around $75 for it. In my neighbourhood lived that really special girl. Black hair, brown eyes, brownish tinted skin, charm, humor, everything a latino beauty princess can be blessed with... Long story made short -- we didn't make it, not even close. Period. If it was me, the Yamaha or both of us, I will never know. Last year I bought my second Yamaha, an LL-TA. Great guitar, great fun :-D

[@Tigerex966]

Please redo this using the pic up system set to Mic and other settings not in the middle so people will know how incredible this pickup system is like on your fgx3 fsx3 video. Thanks.

[@transcendenttv]

Both guitars sounded amazing. I collect the late 60s early 70s FG180s and am still consistently blown away when I play one. Besides old Hofner 491s from 68-74, or 70s Guilds, both of which are 2-3 X more expensive, they’re the most thunderous resonant and harmonically complex acoustics I’ve found. (If you like that sound. I get that some people want a cleaner more trebly Taylor sound… just not my thing.) For context, I’ll add that though I’ve also got all the Gibson models (sponsored) and a Martin D18, which sure it sounds great, very clean and pro sounding…, I actually think this old Martin DX1 - from their first batch of them- is another one of those rare guitars that sounds incredible. Forget price point. It’s just an amazing sounding instrument. I gave up on rating guitars based on price. It just doesn’t apply oftentimes. Both of the models you played sound great on the mic! Buying one NOW. Thank you as always bro.

[@Tigerex966]

I have to wait till summer for mine, when I have some money, line out still sounds nice. That mic is awesome also.

[@RobertWrayGuitar]

Omg that's beautiful! I cannot believe how good that sounds!!!😮😮😮😮

[@frame57tv]

I LOVE the videos you guys post...! Always very informative and fun. I have a Yamaha AC5M and a CSF3M... so when it came to buy a Dreadnought I was sure I would go with Yamaha. Then I saw this video you did on the Red Label series and that was it! -lol- I wanted to continue to deal with my local Yamaha dealer and I waited a year... but I got it today! The decision was based on the info I get from your videos. Thanks and keep up the great work!

[@angelomarinoscijr.919]

two days worth...loving it all the more...

[@andrewzanas9387]

Ya, I surely do love my Ya. I have an acoustic cutaway model "Made in China". Bought it used and have loved everything about it since day one. Incredibly rich sound.

[@fredflinstone3173]

I have yet to hear a pickup that sounds even close to natural. Microphone input is Always Way Better! Btw, I’m saving for a Taylor 322ce 12 fret. If the FSX5 came in a 12 fret, I’d have to reconsider my choice. Beautiful sound coming out of those guitars.

[@Tigerex966]

Check out Alamos fgx3 review where he only uses the pickup system and adjust it to Mic. Sounds incredible

[@bobaldo2339]

Nothing sounds as good as playing into a good microphone IMO.

[@paullarnce2167]

You're right- it does have that mellow tone of the 60's.

[@ThisIsVao]

Thanks for recording what the pick up sounds like. Pretty impressive. Looking for a cheaper guitar to use with a good active pick up that’s all solid wood that allows me to easily switch out batteries. I think I’ll be getting an FGX3 or 5 soon!

[@kkdeveauxgue2592]

Mann.... I'm in shock I got the FG800 FG830 and the FG830 eletrocoustic I never knew they got that high up..WoW..!!!

[@kowalski4734]

I own several us custom guitars, damn... but my favorites are really Yamaha Guitars made in Japan....like the new FGX 5. Thx for this brillant demo 😎✌

[@larrykenney7091]

Love the Yamaha guitar, I have 2 of them, love them, not just for the price but the sound value.

[@eddiemoore8468]

I don’t know about these models of Yamaha guitars. But I own an original fg-180 red label 6 string and an fg-230,12 string from the early 70’s . If they are like mine, they are very good guitars. Yamaha use to be called the poor mans Martin. I’ve owned several Yamaha guitars over the years, all were very good.

[@hitsfromthebong7629]

Play authentic? I love it!!!!!! Yamaha are killing it with there Made in Japan acoustic and electrics. Reasonably priced and top shelf quality guitars! Unlike the "Play authentic" Gibson's that are twice the price and is nowhere near the build and quality of a Japanese made Yamaha.

[@marcaurelius2574]

Now I want a new guitar...

[@Bryan_Lion]

I’ve been telling people, Yamaha is coming up in quality for low cost production, which makes a great price point. Competitive to Martin, Taylor, Gibson

[@jaredcaldera]

The Fs5 sure has amazing bass

[@jimsteele2072]

The line input sounds better tha most, but I would need to blend in a mike. I prefer miking over a line anyway. Excellent Guitar. I am a Yamaha fan. Have FS 700 And a FG 830.

[@angelomarinoscijr.919]

JUST GOT A NEW FSX5 RED LABEL...to add to my arsenal...I'm already in love with it... dazzling sound and silky feel... I am delighted and may post my own eval of it...thanks for all the great info and opinion... I was extremely helpful... play on...PAPA ANGELO

[@frankp4332]

Angelo Marinosci Jr. How is the set up ( the action ) is it nice right out of the box or does it need lowering etc ? Thank you

[@angelomarinoscijr.919]

@@frankp4332 it plays like prom night... needs nothing but loving fingers and a few tunes... I am delighted...feel free to ask more questions here or on FB.... enjoy

[@imgonnasmokeu]

@@angelomarinoscijr.919 Do u still like the fsx5?? Trying to see when i can get one..have a taylor 514 but want something smaller and a different tone

[@angelomarinoscijr.919]

I still have my Yamaha and still loving it

[@angelomarinoscijr.919]

@@imgonnasmokeu still have it and love it and you really need to go on line and search for one

[@guitarpt62]

Thanks Chris, great demo. I have a Yamaha Compass series CPX 10 I think, which I love. Are they still in production and how do these Red Label guitars compare with the high end Compass series guitars?

[@jdstan9650]

Always order a few non-pickup models for us home/couch players! ...and (as always) keep playing "authentic!" ; )

[@AlamoMusic]

Always!

[@ronammar5021]

Wow! Would love to see a shootout vs D18

[@soofitnsexy]

d 18 kills it

[@davy3130]

@@soofitnsexy absolute nonsense. I've owned a D-18, it's now gone. Good guitar but lots of hype and brand snobbery in there too. The Yamaha is easily the equal of it. Which you prefer the sound of is subjective and down to taste but there's no "killing" going on here.

[@TT-wz6xy]

@@soofitnsexy yip agree , ive just recently purchased one of these and it is an amazing guitar for the money , I’m very happy with it but my friends D18 kills it , but it does cost twice as much as the yamaha

[@MintStiles]

I've always felt that mixing a good transducer like K&K with a good sound hole magnetic pickup gave the most usable tone. The Piezo can't seem hide itself no matter what you do. Definitely goo that you can order these without pickups, but that's just my feeling.

[@dsmiddy2374]

Underbridge piezos are often unbalanced and can be a nightmare if you try lowering the action. KK is best no doubt.

[@lesa8020]

Wow, I'm listening thru headphones and the acoustic sound is wonderfully warm. However, the Line In settings set straight up is too bright for me. Hoping adjusting the EQ would fix that issue.

[@41PH4B3TS0UP]

I have an FG5 and always have people saying Fwoor listen to that! They really take some beating.

[@philipmahony4692]

Hi great review. How would you compare the FS5 against the LS R or LS 16 M ?

[@douglasboyd8475]

Just got a red label, what an incredible guitar!

[@moisesperez4605]

Guys I am visually impaired, when you do these videos please let us know which Guitar you’re starting off, and when you are alternating Guitar’s salad that we can know which Guitar you’re playing, also give us the actual price of each Guitar, because if you have that information in writing on your video we’re not able to see that. But they have a beautiful sound keep it up like your videos.

[@11KT11]

I've got a couple of Martins so I guess you could say I'm a Martin guy but that FGX5 sounds beautiful...very tempting indeed.

[@maxstephens815]

I have an FG180 red label that I got in 1969 already well used and abused. I traded a rifle for it. I won't part with it for anything! It is as good or better than any guitar I've ever played. I own or have owned Gibson, Guild, Gretch, Ovation, Martin, Taylor, Zager, Silvertone, Western Auto, Harmony, Fender and a few Chinese Clones that were ok and let's not forget Epiphone. The Zager is the best next to my old beat up Yamaha which looks about like Willy's Trigger!

[@rickthomas9278]

i found a silvertone under the tree when i was 13 ... still have it.

[@MisterNiles]

Good playing. Thanks. I have one of these on order. Supposed to arrive January 9th. I have a feeling I'll be waiting a bit longer. I've already paid. I can't wait. I love my 441s. It is amazing. I want this one for many reasons. One is for doing acoustic Frippertronics. That pickup system. Damn. Sounds great for my needs. Thanks. I can't wait to stop watching these drool inducing videos over and over again :)

[@dionst.michael1482]

I cut my teeth on my Dads mid-70's FG red label guitar to learn how to play when I was a kid. A little worse for wear these days but it can tell some amazing stories. Still have it.

[@bryanbaskett4010]

The FGX5 has a bone nut and bridge, ebony pins, and wood pick guard, all those components on the FGX3 are plastic, virtually the only difference. Swap those out with FGX5 OEM parts from Yamaha for about $75 shipped, and you have yourself a poor man’s FGX5. I picked up a like new used FGX3 on Reverb and did exactly that and it sounds AMAZING.

[@Oklatucky_Guitarman]

Kinda want both now, so... Job well done.

[@joemorton9217]

The FS sound is nuts!

[@RobertWrayGuitar]

Yes! I thought the same thing!

[@fearlessfirebird6255]

The Yamaha FS3 is outstanding. Right up there with my Martin OM. I'm not a fan of butchering acoustic guitars with electronics (use my L.R. Baggs when I need to) & that's why I went for the Chinese version. Beautiful. The hard gig bag it came with was an unexpected bonus & is of the highest quality. Love to see you demo it. It's amazing.

[@tdc_2021]

FS5 comes without electronics

[@tbsschiro1393]

Thanks man! Im sure that by your video they will be more expensive in the future. All that aside, I agree!

[@meikelwortmann7264]

Great Review as always. Realy Love the FGX5 but are you shure the Binding is Ebony?

[@MrJaytee32]

Funny, I really thought the sound out of the pickup sounded pretty crappy? What did you like about this pickup system?

[@tcscustomwoodworks]

I thought it took away bass and clarity

[@TropicalLatitude]

Agreed. Sounds like a crappy piezo.

[@Derek-rv3ee]

He didn't really adjust it, sounded terrible but other videos reveal a much better pickup sound.

[@bhobg]

What was that bit about the V headstock and the zoom in. That's a story that I'd like to know hehe

[@stardance9442]

Very nice sounding electronic system quality woods ... my first new guitar was a fg 185 .great demo thanks a bunch ☆ man

[@johntrep4504]

Best Guitars of the year? For the price I would say yes.

[@richat1691]

they cost well over £1000!!!

[@randomdude6136]

@@richat1691 stop being poor

[@mojobonbon]

haaa! "play authentic"...best comment of the year! :D