GEAR REVIEW
S
ome of the earliest 12-string acoustic
proponents were bluesmen Huddie
“Leadbelly” Ledbetter and Blind Willie
McTell, who used the instrument to deliver their
unique brand of blues in the early 1900s. Since then
the 12-string has gained appeal in multiple genres
and has been featured predominantly in classic
tunes including the Eagles’ “Hotel California,” Pink
Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here,” and Led Zeppelin’s
“Over the Hills and Far Away.” There’s also a cool
video floating around the Internet of Jimi Hendrix
playing “Hear My Train a Comin’” on a 12-string.
But these captivating instruments don’t come
without a price. Common issues associated with
12-strings are necks that are big and difficult to
play, high action, and intonation problems higher
on the fretboard. Guild addressed these problems
and won the battle with their F-1512E model – a
properly set up acoustic/electric 12-string featuring
a comfortable vintage style “C” shaped neck for
easy chording that sounds in tune all the way up
the neck. The F-1512E is from Guild’s “Westerly
Collection,” a new line catering to budget-conscious
consumers and inspired by the commitment to
quality and extraordinary craftsmanship of guitars
from their early years at the Westerly factory in
Rhode Island. Although the F-1512E is manufactured
in China, Guild holds their Asian luthiers to the
same high standards of producing detail-focused
guitars with top line woods, accouterments, and
exceptional craftsmanship. The guitar is also
available without onboard electronics for a slightly
lower price point as model F-1512. I was impressed
with this jumbo body 12-string from the start. No
bells and whistles – just solid and well-built with a
beautifully rich and full-bodied tone. And it is loud!
Make no bones about it.
JUNE/JULY
DIGITAL EDITION
69