WTB beginners guitar

t-bird

Don't get me wrong - there is nothing wrong with my Cigano GJ-0. I'm quite happy with it for the money I paid.

I like guitars that get the job done (Cigano) and I have a true appreciation for beautiful instruments (my '74 Les Paul). For a long time I kept my 70's Yamaha FG-160 (not Nippon Factory aka the good ones) at my Dad's house and I would pick it up more often than his Martin HD-28. I really enjoy playing that particular guitar.

The issue with my Cigano is a lack of connection with the guitar. It looks, feels and sounds like the entry level guitar it is. Is a $4000 guitar 10X better? Silly question. We all know it doesn't work that way.

The aforementioned GJ-15 is still for sale on Craigslist. I'm going to call the guy, take a look, and make a reasonable offer. If it's a go, then I'm happy to pass on my GJ-0 to highsider for the same price I paid for it.

t-bird

So, I checked out the CIgano GJ-15 from Portland Craigslist. It was a definite pass for me. He was not the original owner. It badly needed new strings and a setup, and the fact that it came with a case wasn't enough to offset the extra money that would need to go into it. Different from my GJ-0, it had a 9th fret dot inlay (mine has a 10th). The neck was also different - almost flat on the back with quick sloping sides up to the fretboard.

I read something in Michael's Gypsy Picking book yesterday that I found to be especially pertinent. Given the right technique, one can play "...louder with a very satisfying tone, even on very modest instruments."

With the above in mind, good luck with your search for an entry level GJ guitar.