guild gad-30 v. epiphone masterbilt ef-500

[tkris]

any advice on deciding between these two chinese built om/000 type guitars? i know there are big fans of both here, and they seem quite similar in quality and price. i know i should go and play both and decide for myself, but i can only find the guild to play around here -- though the local GC has masterbilt dreads which are very nice.

 

also, any thoughts on finding the best deal on either of these?

 

thanks.

[Dave W.]

Based on what I have read here, and both guitars get a lot of talk, they are pretty even in quality of wood and build. I doubt you could go wrong with either one, but you are going to have to play them both to really decide. I don't think comparing a GAD OM to an EPI dread is going to tell you much. I just bought a China built Alvarez classical in this price bracket, and I think it is a extremely well made, and great sounding guitar. It appears you are past the "China Syndrome", so it boils down to one vs the other, so you have to play them. Have fun.

[guitarist21]

I highly recommend you search under ever rock until you find some an Epi EF-500r you can try. It will make all the difference. Even if that means ordering it from MF. It is worth the cost of shipping to try it, IMO.

 

Ellen

[EvilTwin]

Both great instruments. The only thing you can really do is play them both; your ears will decide what's right for you.

 

One advantage the Guilds do have is an absolutely pimp-tastic case.

[guitarist21]

One advantage the Guilds do have is an absolutely pimp-tastic case.

 

I must say the Epi's case is pretty cool too. Blue plush on the inside and a built-in hygrometer. Comes with a humidifier too.

 

Ellen

[steve_man]

Gotta say that I think the Guild feels more substantial. However, I sold my GAD-30 because I felt the neck was too thin. It made my hand cramp every time I played it. Epi necks are usually a little thicker. I really do not think you would go wrong either way, but you MUST play them both!

[Apollo]

I am very partial to Guilds. I have an F50, I know thats different than the GAD series, but Guilds are just great guitars.........american and chinese. But like everyone has said..........you just gotta spend some time with each one. And do over a period of time. Give yourself a couple weeks. You will discover a lot during that period of time.