Cole Clark?

Shibbibilybob

Hey guys.
I am shopping for a new acoustic in the 10-15k range. My only real specification is that it must have a cutaway, although at that price point I expect a solid top and backs at the least and a certain level of construction quality.

I have tried a few Martins (I am usure the model, the USA-made OMCE and DCE with sapele back and sides and that composite neck) and have been very impressed.
I also have a giant soft spot for Japanese Takamines and would love to be able to pick up a nice TAN or sante fe model, however these, new, are a bit out of my price range.

NOw here is my proper question.
I have heard that Toms are bringing in Cole Clark guitars, which is awesome.
They seem to have really different construction and bracing techniques that I am interested in testing.

Has anyone played, or even bought one of these beauties?
I'd be curious to hear whether you think it's worth a trip up to jozi to try one out.

Bob-Dubery

Shibbibilybob wrote: Has anyone played, or even bought one of these beauties?
I'd be curious to hear whether you think it's worth a trip up to jozi to try one out.

If you're going to make a trip to Jozi then make the most of it and try out other brands you may not have easy access to in CT. The Breedlove agents for SA are also in Jo'burg (Music Connection) and you could also give Hugh's Fine Guitars a call (before you fly up) and see if he has anything in your price range.

My usual tip: Look at 2nd hand axes as well. For 15 grand you could pick up a really good 2nd hand acoustic in decent condition. You can get a lot more bang for your buck that way.

deefstes

I agree with X-rated Bob about 2nd hand guitars.

As for Cole Clark guitars, I'm still trying to make my own mind up. I've been to TOMS, for other reasons, and Grant and the other salesmen made very sure I give them a spin. One thing I will say is that I am VERY impressed with the pickups and the sound (and blend of sounds) you can get through the electronics. I am not entirely convinced of their unplugged acoustic quality though. I have a fairly bottom of the range Martin and I still prefer my unplugged sound to the fairly high end Cole Clark I tried out. Maybe it's just because I like the typical Martin sound. I will also add that the electronics on my Martin is rather pathetic. One day, when it's important enough to me, I might consider replacing the pickup and electronics.

So I'd say, go give them a try but make sure you don't get bedazzled by the novelty of their "new ways" and just the electronics. Make sure you are happy with the acoustic sound because ultimately that is more important.

Tokai-SA

Go to TOMS Sandton, the Cole Clarks are amazing guitars.

Shibbibilybob

So I bit the bullet and bought myself a Cole Clark FL2AC with a spruce top and queensland maple back and sides.
All solid wood ?

What a fantastic guitar! Completely outplayed the Martins and Taylors in that price range...in fact the only guitars in the price range (=- 15k) that came anywhere close to the Cole Clark was a Japanese Takamine dreadnaught.

I am completely in love with this guitar.

Squonk

Good Stuff

Love the Headstock on these Guitars

need to see some pictures.

Interesting about the Takamine ?

deefstes

Squonk wrote: Good Stuff

Love the Headstock on these Guitars

need to see some pictures.

Interesting about the Takamine ?

I agree, we definitely need to see some pictures. But then also, we definitely need to hear some recordings. 8)

jt

Nice one A-wing! i hope its feeling you up proper!

TertiusHuman

I've recorded a song for a friend who's got a Cole Clerk (the more top of the range model). Usually i'd record an acoustic in the booth with xy stereo micing but this time we decided to try the Cole Clerk's amazing pickups. To me it sounded a bit tinny. For live it sounds amazing but not for recording still prefer to record in with a microphone.

Here is the link to the song: