Hello and Gallato Django

placidothecat

Hi all, thought I'd quit lurking and introduce myself!

I'm Phil , been studying/playing jazz for 20 years or so, have always been moved most by early jazz/swing/bebop and Western swing players (Charlie Christian, Eddie Lang, Junior Barnard, Eldon Shamblin, Jimmy Wyble, etc.), and recently got the Gypsy jazz bug. I picked up a used Gallato Django model for cheap, shimmed the bass side of the bridge a bit, put some felt under the tailpiece (red, thanks), bought a Wegen 3.5mm pick, and presto! -- I think its quite a good feeling and sounding guitar for the money (around $450.)

I did a search but didn't see too may posts on this particular model. It is inevitable that I'll upgrade (I like nice guitars!), but for getting my feet wet it seems a decent starter/gateway guitar. Does anyone have any experience/opinions about this model guitar? Any suggestions for DIY upgrades?

Thanks and hi!
-Phil

JazzDawg

Welcome to the scene...

As far as the Django Gallato, I think it's their entry model, much akin to the Gitane lineup. I believe those are made in Asia, not that it's a bad thing. I've got a D-500, and though, yes it's not a Dupont or other top line, I'm having a lot of fun with it. The main thing I've noticed is my practice time with the D-500 has really improved my hand strength and dexterity to the point where I can comfortably play any of my guitars so much better - just in the last 6 months. I had laid off playing for about 10 years, and played my last professional gig in 1978, so that tells you how 'moth-balled' I was. GJ was always an interest, but really got the bug last May, after getting an upgrade to my hearing aids, which allowed me to actually hear music again. Now, there isn't enough time in the day for me with my guitar!

Coming from the music you've been listening and playing, should be an easier step to GJ. It's so close to those styles in a lot of ways. You'll probably find playing your Gallato gives you a nice tone for those other styles, as well.

Good luck, and welcome!

Phil 'JazzDawg

placidothecat

Hi JazzDawg,

Thank you -- its always a pleasure to meet another Phil. We are a special breed.

Yes, indeed my humble Gallato Django does also sound great for chord-melody style jazz and bebop lines -- probably much better than it should for its price tag. I prefer using a certain pick for those styles though -- I like the D'Andrea Pro Plek, which has a really round, dark sound with zero pick noise -- my fave jazz pick. The Wegen 3.5mm is very bright, loud and clacky but has a more GJ sound. I enjoy using both with the Gallato.

And yes, after playing it pretty much exclusively I picked up my old Gibson L4-C and that 24.75 inch scale felt like felt like a laser!

Christopher Frank

Hi Phil,
I bought a new Gallato Django about 4 months ago. It is a student model which, for the money, is a really well made instrument. As far as I can tell it is made in the same way as all other Django type guitars. This one was made in Spain, I believe earlier models were built in China. Whatever, the materials are good, solid spruce soundboard, which is improving with use, and laminated mahogany back and sides as per all "genuine copy" Selmer/Macaferri guitars. If you want a solid wood model the price is about 4 times as much as the Django model.

Initially I thought it sounded a bit thin, by comparison with my 25 year old Washburn D30 which is an all solid wood Southern Jumbo. However, I now love the tone which is typical of all Django guitars.
To improve the guitar I have changed the original one piece bridge (rosewood) for an ebony 3 piece moustache bridge and have got the 12th fret string clearance set to 2.5 mm. I also changed the strings for Savarez Argentine (.011/.046) guage. Great strings! The ebony bridge has really improved the tone which is now fuller and more defined, and playing the guitar a lot has also worked the sounboard and I love it more and more. A good stiff pick (min. 2.5/3.0mm) helps as does good technique. As a novice to GJ this is not easy to get used to I am about to change the nickel OEM machines for a decent set by GOTOH to improve tuning stability. With that done I believe the guitar will be a Keeper.
I hope all this waffle is of some use to you. I also hope that you enjoy your guitar as much as I love mine.
Bonne Pompe!
Christophe

placidothecat

Thank you Christophe, I will take your advice and fit a new bridge.

I see Michael sells Dupont bridges, but it appears to be the center piece only. The Gallato Django has a single-piece mustache bridge, so I'll need the two mustache sides as well (or I can saw the ends off the Gallato's bridge!)

Where did you get a new 3 piece bridge?

Thanks
-Phil

Christopher Frank

Hello again Phil.
I bought the whole 3 piece bridge set from a small luthier in La Rochelle for around 17 euros. Here in France it is never a problem finding spares for manouche guitars. I have seen them on-line from various suppliers of GJ guitars outside of France and the prices are always higher. I have also seen them for sale on ebay at OK prices. Sometimes just the moustache bits are offered for as little as 10 euros the set of two.
If you are not familiar with 3-piece bridges the centre comes in several different heights, to suit lead or rhythm styles so measure the height of your existing bridge, assuming you are comfortable with how the guitar plays now. Whatever you buy will have to be fitted to the curved top of your guitar and the top trimmed and radiused slightly. The string slot cutting can also be tricky, so if you are not confident about doing the job leave it to a pro, which will save money in the long run, and some degree of frustration.
I am fortunate that many years ago I had a small business restoring/making stringed instruments, and still enjoy doing stuff for myself and friends. It keeps me out of mischief, when I'm not restoring my house.
Just as a matter of interest I live quite close to Maurice Dupont and drop into his workshops from time to time to buy bits and pieces. His stuff is good quality but not cheap. He is a nice guy but sensitive about Serge Gallato because Serge had instruments built in China and gave the impression they were built "en France". I believe that Gallato GJ guitars are now built in Spain, using all European woods, and are finished/inspected in Toulouse France. His signature models are all handmade in France, hence the prices are higher, but still lower than M. Dupont guitars. Ah, such is the stuff of French luthrie made. It's all tres Marcel Pagnol!
Once again I have gone on waffling, but I hope that I have been of some help. If I can be of any further use let me know.
All the best
Christopher

ChetArrista

Phil...

I am trying to reach you. I would love a chance to talk/play with you. I live in Timounium/Lutherville right near you!

Please contact me...it would be great to meet someone of your caliber and heavy backround!

Best,

Chet