Altamira M10/30 or Gitane Lulo Reinhardt?

criminel · June 2018

Can't try neither (I live too far) and I would like to buy one of the two to replace my Cigano GJ10. Care to share opinions?

Thanks to all

LeonP · June 2018

I have owned and played three gitanes d hole and o hole. I didnt own all, but i played a lot of gypsy guitars from selmer, hahl, gafiero, dupont and so on...If you want gypsy sound go for altamira.
I couldnt be more happy with my m10 antique model, its loud, chrunchy, great neck shape beautiful made and a light guitar.

Petrov · June 2018

My antique m01 sounds awesome. Get a proper setup and bridge. The gitane does not compare when talking about traditional gypsy sound.

t-bird · June 2018

Eastman will be releasing a Gypsy Jazz guitar with a similar price point sometime soon. It may be worth waiting to see what kind of sound/reviews those guitars have before making a purchase.
I would not recommend spending that much on a Gitane.

MikeK · June 2018

I have 2 Altamiras (an M-01D & an M-10) and I love them both. I have received many compliments from more experienced players who have tried mine out. But I needed my luthier to set both up properly after I bought them to bring out the magic. To be able to get an authentic GJ sound out of a well-made guitar in the $1000 range works well for me. But that's just my opinion.

criminel · June 2018

Thanks to all of you. The opinions are quite consistent.

PapsPier · June 2018

I have had my Gitane Lulo Reinhardt for 8 years now. It is a really good guitar, nice sound, easy to play, good volume. It does not have the "soul"/the old woody sound of a traditional gypsy guitar but it does the job when you play it right.
People have been quite impressed by it (knowing that it is a Gitane) and the guy who sold it to me regrets it...