Tormented over choice

[dknelson]

Well folks, I tried all weekend to love it and just didn't.  I took it back a few minutes ago.  I can't tell you why but it just didn't do it for me.  So, I'm back to my search.  I'll check out some of the models that you have suggested and also try to find somebody with the DCPA1 in stock so I can do some real comparisons.  I know that when I find the right one, I will know it.

Thank you all so much for your excellent feedback.

[DennisG]

Also, thanks for joining.  We need more people who aren't scared to say the name Martin around here

I've never once gotten the sense that it's not okay to talk about other guitar brands, especially since many of us own brands in addition to Taylor.

It was a joke, hence the emoticon at the end

I don't know the language of emoticons because I never use them.  I didn't realize they cancel out everything that precedes them.

[Steve]

I'll check out some of the models that you have suggested and also try to find somebody with the DCPA1 in stock so I can do some real comparisons.

I never really understood the Performing Artist Series. It's a blatant ripoff.

Funny story:

A few years back at MIAC (the Toronto trade show), I took a walk over to the Martin booth to visit my buddy Bruce. As I walked up to their booth, Bruce was sitting there texting. I was sure he saw me walk up, but he kept his eyes on his screen. I, in turn, paid him no attention.

I picked up the GPCPA1 (a wannabe 814ce) which they had on display. I checked it out for a few, and set it back on its stand as Bruce looked up at me.

"What the ?", I said. "Worked for us!"

He laughed, but I think he was well aware that their guitar was quite the homage to the 814ce...

[sachi]

I never really understood the Performing Artist Series. It's a blatant ripoff.

Now, now, Steve. I seem to recall Taylor has a few DN models in its lineup.

[Steve]

I never really understood the Performing Artist Series. It's a blatant ripoff.

Now, now, Steve. I seem to recall Taylor has a few DN models in its lineup.

Sure.

So does everyone else.

The only person who could look at the Performing Artists and not see that they're rip-offs is a person who lacks the benefit of sight.

I mean, seriously...

[michaelw]

Well folks, I tried all weekend to love it and just didn't.  I took it back a few minutes ago.  I can't tell you why but it just didn't do it for me.  So, I'm back to my search.  I'll check out some of the models that you have suggested and also try to find somebody with the DCPA1 in stock so I can do some real comparisons.  I know that when I find the right one, I will know it.

Thank you all so much for your excellent feedback.

hi Don,
i hope that you will consider checking out wildwood music in coshocton -
they show to have all the models in stock that you may be considering comparing

hey Steve
i thought the PA series was more 'inspired' by the 814ce (cutaway shape,
older style fretmarkers & bridge) & the 414ce (solid ovangkol binding)

the 1 - 5s have the 16 series mortise & tenon neck joint & hybrid X scalloped bracing -
http://www.martinguitar.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=144:gpcpa1&Itemid=88

it's interesting that a model 1/4 the $ has the same bracing pattern
http://www.martinguitar.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=927:gpcpa5k&Itemid=8

looking at the glass half-empty, it'd sort of be like the 100 series bracing pattern being used on the 800 series or
i guess another way to look at it would be half-full (the 800 series CV bracing pattern being used on the 100 series)

in order to step-up to 'Standard series' specs, one has to pony up the $ for this one (right in-between a 900 & PS)
adi/madi, scalloped-X GE forward shifted 5/16" adi bracing, dovetail neck joint
http://www.martinguitar.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=929:gpcpa1-madagascar-rosewood&Itemid=8

koa 'PS' ?
http://www.martinguitar.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=928:gpcpa-koa&Itemid=8

pre-97 DNs had square shoulders, more hummingbirdesque & in 97, the redesign
used more a rounded D-XXesque style shape ... & the RTS3 had a 'teardrop' 'guard

imho, in the grand scheme of things, i think it's about all a 'wash' -
the rosewood that was received from martin was paid for ...
it's all good

[dknelson]

Thank you.  Yes, I do plan to get by there but my schedule is making it difficult.  I actually have a meeting about an hour from there today but I looked at their website and saw that they are closed on Sun, Mon, and Tue.    I don't think I will have another chance this week and have to go to Michigan on Saturday.  Maybe I can get by there sometime next week. 

In the meantime, I'll be stopping at just about every guitar shop that I happen across but most around here just don't have much mid to high level inventory.

[Glen]

I once fought the same fight everyday. I have a home studio. I have some very nice guitars.  I really like Martins and Taylors and have a J45 Custom that is one of the best guitars I have ever owned for sound.  The simple reality is this. Martins have their niche and Taylors have their niche. If you like that classic "Martin" tone with more bass overtones and historical significance that is unmatched then get a Martin. If you like that "piano precision like" sound quality of a Taylor with innovations in guitar building that Martin is copying (Performing Artist) then get that. I for one couldn't decide so I own both.  IMHO, the F1 Aura is FAR superior to the Expression. It isn't even close.  However, it is a bit more complicated where as the Expression is three simple knobs. To me, picking between a Taylor and Martin is like choosing which one of your kids you love more.  I for one, have always played more Martin Guitars.  However, I am smart enough to realize that there is room at the table for many different guitar makers and tone woods.  I go nuts when I read how defensive some owners get about their brand or model.  The only thing that matters is what appeals to your ear and your feel. Period. Don't get caught up in anything else.  I have a DCPA1 that is easier playing than my Taylors and sounds wonderful and different to me than any of my other guitars.  I like it so much, I am buying a Madagascar to get even more of the classic Martin tone. At the same time, I have my sights on a 814CE Spring Ltd Coco..... Tom"ay"to - Tom"ah"to.  You can't go wrong either way.  Enjoy the ride!

[dknelson]

Well, my schedule has changed a bit so I'm going to be able to get to Wildwood Music today.  It looks like they have everything in stock that I want to check out.  I'm especially interested in the Martin DCPA1 and also will try  the Taylor 810ce and the 816ce.  I'm thinking that one of these three is going to be the ticket for me but am going to keep an open mind.  I like the gloss finishes but who knows, I may see a 4 series or something else that may reach out to me. 

[cigarfan]

Well, my schedule has changed a bit so I'm going to be able to get to Wildwood Music today.  It looks like they have everything in stock that I want to check out.  I'm especially interested in the Martin DCPA1 and also will try  the Taylor 810ce and the 816ce.  I'm thinking that one of these three is going to be the ticket for me but am going to keep an open mind.  I like the gloss finishes but who knows, I may see a 4 series or something else that may reach out to me.

Hot dog! Have some fun today!

[Cindy]

I hope you will reconsider playing another 814ce especially since you might be trying out a number of guitars. I've played identical Taylors which sounded and played differently from one another. Who knows...maybe an 814ce just might whisper sweet sounds in your ear.

[Fire]

Well, my schedule has changed a bit so I'm going to be able to get to Wildwood Music today.  It looks like they have everything in stock that I want to check out.  I'm especially interested in the Martin DCPA1 and also will try  the Taylor 810ce and the 816ce.  I'm thinking that one of these three is going to be the ticket for me but am going to keep an open mind.  I like the gloss finishes but who knows, I may see a 4 series or something else that may reach out to me.

Hi Mr. Nelson,

Could you do me a favor and play this guitar as well and let me know how it sounds (if not too much of a bother to you). I've been eyeing it for awhile. It's a 2011 Fall Limited GSce Cocobolo. Thanks and goodluck in your guitar search.

[jjrpilot-admin]

Well, my schedule has changed a bit so I'm going to be able to get to Wildwood Music today.  It looks like they have everything in stock that I want to check out.  I'm especially interested in the Martin DCPA1 and also will try  the Taylor 810ce and the 816ce.  I'm thinking that one of these three is going to be the ticket for me but am going to keep an open mind.  I like the gloss finishes but who knows, I may see a 4 series or something else that may reach out to me.

Hi Nelson, I couldn't recommend them enough.  I got my new GS8e via WildWoodMusic...Don and Marty were soooo nice and helpful!   

[dknelson]

Fire, I'm sorry but did not see your message before I was already done there.

Well folks, I bought a guitar but I did end up going with the Martin.  Ended up not buying any of the guitars that I went to look at though.  I tried the 810ce and the 816ce.  Was leaning toward the 816ce when Don pulled out a custom shop Martin.  It was absolutely the guitar for me.  Although I had previously said that I really wasn't interested in the GPCPA1, this one changed my mind.

So, I ended up buying a custom shop GPCPA1.  It may well be the only one around exactly like this and certainly wouldn't appeal to everybody.  It is Indian Rosewood back and sides but has an Adirondack top.  Dovetail neck joint, 5/16" Golden Era forward shifted bracing.  I was a bit surprised that the Adirondack top would be the one that rang my bell but it surely did. 

Thanks for recommending Wildwood Music.  Don and Marty are truly nice people and very easy to deal with. 

Here's their description off the website:
We asked Martin's Custom Shop Luthiers to make their new Performing Artist GPC model with the Traditional dove-tail joined neck! It was made with Premium East Indian Rosewood and powerful Adirondack Spruce, with the hand-scalloped "Golden Era" pattern bracing on the top! The appointments are the same as on the new "Performing Artist -1" Series; but, to bring back a touch of Martin Tradition, we added the old Martin stamp to the back of the headstock. We also added the Traditional polished and beveled Tortoise pickguard, and made certain to add a bone nut and saddle. The pickup system on this guitar features the brilliant Fishman Fl Aura! But we saved the best comment for last--the magnificent sound! Wait until you have this "power-up" in your arms!

[cigarfan]

Congrats Don! Glad you settled on a guitar that ran the bell.

Sure hoping for some pictures soon. Sound clip if you can.