which archtop acoustic?

[kcswimjustin]

I'm looking at buying an archtop acoustic but want to do it within a reasonable budget (less than $1200, if I can) and was wondering if anyone has thoughts on what they'd pick between:

 

-a used late 1940's Gibson L-50

-a new Loar LH-600

-an Eastman Jim Fisch archtop

 

 

I guess the Godin 5th Avenues would be fine to look at, though I've heard mixed reviews. I'm just looking for something I can use for a Freddie Green/western swing/chunky rhythm sound. Pickups aren't important to me.

 

Any thoughts are appreciated. Thanks.

[Stackabones]

Three very tempting ideas!

 

I think it'd be cool to have one of those old Gibby archies. If you can find a good deal and in good condition, I'd go for one of those.

 

I researched that Loar, but I haven't played one. It looks great and the youtube vids I've seen indicate that it has a cool sound (as much as can be ascertained from youtube).

 

The Eastman Jim Fisch appears to be a cutaway, which is a bit different than the other two you've mentioned. I kinda dig the non-cutaway mojo, but I love having the upper access (my main gighorse is Gitane D500 with that old style Macca cutaway). Honestly, I don't really get too far past the 15th fret -- and that's maybe once a set. So cutaway may just be a mind thing.

 

Okay, so I haven't really helped too much. Tough decision!

 

Have you played any of these or have access? Barring that, I'd guess you've read up on them.

Make sure to include some kind of case in your budget.

[Pascal]

I would add the Gretsch G400 Synchromatic to your list: they go for $1500 new, so I guess a 2nd hand one would be within your price range.

They are 17", (3.5'' depth) carved spruce top acoustic archtops.


(cutaway version available)