Talk to me about Avalon guitars

[Rocinante]

Any good?

 

I'm looking to upgrade from my Martin JM and have been looking around at a few higher priced guitars with rosewood b/s and ebony fretboards. It seems Avalon do a number of guitars in this configuration, so I tried a couple of A-series instruments out at a store. I felt they had a very nice crisp tone overall but were a bit light on the bass. (This could be my being accustomed to a jumbo.)

 

I compared with a couple of Martins and Taylors. All nice in their own way. I play mostly fingerstyle but I also need my next instrument to be versatile enough to handle flatpicking for live duties with a rock band.

 

Just wondered if anyone here had any experience with these guitars in general (and the A/S series models specifically)...? Please share your findings.

[DonK]

I have a friend who has an Avalon, but I don't remember the model number. I've only played it once. I thought it was a very balanced guitar, but not especially distinctive. Reminded me of a Larrivee. Keep in mind that Avalon is the brainchild of George Lowden, whose Lowden guitars have an almost cult-like following in some circles.

[Rocinante]

I've played a friend's Lowden too. It's nice but I wouldn't say exceptionally better than the Avalon (Legacy models) from what I heard.

 

Haven't yet had the pleasure of playing a Larrivee.

[bbrunskill]

I did some work on a Avalon last weekend. It was really nice, a light, nicely balanced, solid instrument. But it didn't hit me as something really special and unique. I think it would be a great stage guitar, but give me my lovely old Lowden and my Cole Clark dread anyday.