GEAR REVIEW naturally amplified tone mirroring the complex harmonics and overtones of the instrument and perfect for live shows . Onboard volume and tone controls are mounted discreetly just inside the sound hole and are easily accessible preserving the natural “ acoustic ” look . My only reservation is that the battery is tucked away inside the body and accessed through the sound-hole meaning several strings would need to be loosened in order to replace the battery – not a quick and easy fix if the battery dies during a gig . The guitar includes a Guild jumbo polyfoam case with convenient backpack-style shoulder straps for hands-free transportation and limited lifetime warranty for the original retail purchaser . ■
VERDICT
Quality parts , craftsmanship , tone , and affordability come into the equation when pulling out the wallet ; and the F-1512E gets high marks in all categories . This visually humble guitar might not make you take a second look , but once it has the opportunity to be played I doubt you ’ ll be putting it down anytime soon .
Dave Celentano teaches private guitar lessons in the Los Angeles area , authored a multitude of educational guitar books , dvds , and internet tutorials , and released several cds . His latest books “ Michael Bloomfield Legendary Licks ” and “ Triads for the Rock Guitarist ” are available everywhere and his latest cd “ Desert Storm ” is available on iTunes , Amazon . com , and CDBaby . com . For more info check out Dave ’ s web site : www . davecelentano . com
JUNE / JULY DIGITAL EDITION 71