I recently decided to try out the FS-3 AND THE FS-5. I've driven myself nuts trying to find a 000 spruce/hog guitar that didn't cost a 000-18.
I ended up choosing the FS3 (China) over the FS5 (Japan). The FS3 was lighter, and its problems easily fixable. Sharp fret ends, high saddle and nut, but the frets were good, neck angle bang on. The sound was exactly what I've been looking for. The FS5, in contrast, had an issue with the nut in addition to the high saddle and nut. It's neck angle was 1/8 inch too low. The FS5 was better finished. The neck was silkier, less patchiness on the finish. Comes with a nice case as opposed to a hard gigbag, which is fugly. I've given up on Eastman guitars. I don't like their necks, and there's usually, at least in my case, problems with the frets, nuts, or both.
There's about a 500€ difference between the FS3 and FS5. The prices just rose by 9% here, too. So, I'd put the Red Label series on the checkout list. They impressed me. Not beautiful. The finish on mine is patchy. The tone and playability trumps all.
and how are you, Mr. Wilson? 🤪