Hi friends. I'm looking for something like an Altamira, Gitane, etc. An inexpensive but playable "travel" guitar. Doesn't need to be pretty...as long as it's in decent shape and plays fine. something < $1k USD.
I'm planning on doing some extended stays in various cities, and want an easy guitar for the plane. Rather than spending a lot of money on a good flight case, I'm hoping to try my luck with the gig bag + carry on route.
Thanks!
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Assuming the airline is instrument friendly (not all are) and the overhead is at least 15 in deep you could probably just Google a used gypsy guitar and find something that works for you.
I bought a Washburn Rover “new”. They can be had used for under $175. 23.5inch scale, small acoustic body. Action is kind of high and intonation isn’t great but it is pretty small and I didn’t get the stink eye when I brought it on the airplane. They did make me put it in the overhead compartment on the way there but not on the way back. I just put it under the seat, strings down in the soft case. It’s going on my family vacation with me next summer. Gotta keep up my RSP and LaPompe chops. I think of it as a practice device and to me it was worth it. It would not be worth it if you need to perform with it.
I had one of these before and loved it. Gave it away though…I got an AJL travel guitar. I’m looking for something to gig with though. I suppose I can gig on the AJL but I’d need an amplifier.
How does that Smokey amp work, @everett . It certainly takes the prize for aesthetics.
It’s a fun amp! Pretty overdriven, but a cool sound. It has an output and will actually power a half stack. By itself, it’s not very loud, but good enough to mess around with.
I'd think sourcing an amp for a gig would be easier than schlepping a full size guitar across several flights. That AJL is a perfect travel companion.