Freshman guitars - thoughts? particularly their higher end stuff

paulmapp8306

Not really heard of Freshman as its years since I bought my acoustic and their fairly new to the market - though I was aware of them at the entry level of the market.  

Following my accident, Ive been looking at suitable guitars, in the £1k range.  My budget may be as low as £800 or as high as £1500.  Top of my wish list "was" a Taylor 312 (after trying many), but thats near the top end.  Lower down the 214 (as they dont do a 212 ) or a Faith Venus Hi Gloss were the front runners.  Both would be compromises tonally though/

I then stumbled on a used Freshman 500 series (FA500GA).  Its had electrics fitted - but to a high level.  Plays nicely and sounds good to my ears - though I didnt try it next to anything else (different shop with mostly cheap guitars).  This is being sold on commission.

I did a little research and they seem to be decent in their price range - with is circa £1300 new (without the electrics).  Just wondered what the consensus of this noble body of people was towards the brand in general - and the higher end models in particular.

JohnnyGuitar

Probably best to go with the better known brand, you never know when you might want to sell it again. Have you had a look at what second hand Taylors are available ? I think good makes of acoustics sound better when they are older.

paulmapp8306

Used 3 series Taylors seem to for the the £1k - which is reasonable, but still more than Im going to have I think.  The 2 series and the Faiths just didnt really do it for me.  Its possible that I want more than I can afford, BUT the Freshman did sound/feel as good as the 3 series to my ears/hands - and being used already Id not take too much of a hit.

I had my last acoustic 12 years - and only buying again as Ive damaged it.  If I hadnt I wouldnt be looking.

Also thinking the Stonebridge offerings in the sub £1k mark might be worth a go IF I can find some local enough to try.

grammar

I've got a deal with Freshman, they're great guitars and you get a lot for your money. I've got a Taylor 3 series and a much cheaper Freshman Apollo, the Apollo is easier to play! 

Mansons had an ex display FA500GA for £550. If you find one for that price I don't think you can go far wrong.

paulmapp8306

I have found one with a Shadow prefix Pizo system fitted, for £800.  How does that sound?  Id rather get something better electrically fitted on a £550 example mind - but they dont come up that often.