Ms Rose! Great to see you and get your thoughts on this. I have become convinced that you are correct, ma’am. I never really know if my playing drives folks to the channel, or drives them away 😂. Thanks for the kind words, ma’am 👍🏻
Yes that's true sometimes it takes time to improve, but also (experience will tell you) they simply Don't Improve, that's been for Me an important lesson also to learn 😊😊
Brother Randy, this is a great refresh on this guitar. As players, I sometimes feel we are a bit cheated out of the best sounds coming from our guitar, because we are behind, rather than in front, of them. This guitar sounds fantastic, and not in a 'new guitar' way, but in a 'vintage guitar' way. I'm glad you decided to keep it, I don't think you'll regret it!
My brother Paul! Yes sir, I think that’s right. I’ve got a relationship in Hawkins, Texas and you’ve heard me mention him on the channel, Kelly Barber. Back when he was Taylor’s #1 seller, he took a TV satellite dish and customized it with Taylor’s name in it and then had folks play the guitar in front of it. It was genius. He still has it in his acoustic room. I said all of that to say, I think you’re on to something there. Thanks, brother man 👍🏻
Hi David, I’m super impatient when it comes to guitars, as you know. I’m glad someone didn’t make an offer when I first put it up for sale. Always appreciate you and thanks for the kind words, brother man 👍🏻 Say hey to the family for me.
I bought a new j-45 in 2020. It has a 2021 serial number. It's a keeper. It sounds as good as yours. It's a standard model. And yes it sounds even better today.
I remember the first video, and I can tell the difference in the sound. That J-45 sure is a beauty to see.......maybe it's because the pick guard was removed.... but there's something visually special about that one. Nice video buddy.
Hi Tom, removing the pickguard helped, I think, but the larger contributor to me was just to playing the living dog out of it. You probably know more about this than I do, but it sounds better to me when I individualize, or harmonize the notes, than when I strum it. Could that be because the top is opening, but just not fully there yet? Always appreciate your feedback and insights. Thanks for the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
I have to agree with you about the guitar opening up , i bought my J45 this year in May , without a doubt a beautiful sounding guitar , I'm definitely waiting for it to feel worked in. I have a 2007 Epiphone DR200 inexpensive guitar but it still sounds amazing.
Hi Shane, I’ve heard a few DR200’s that made my head turn a bit. Inexpensive yes, but if it was made on the right day, so to speak, it’s a cannon. Did you get the Standard 45? I think those are my favorites of the lot. There’s nothing standard about the sound. Appreciate you sharing your thoughts here, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm hi Randy mine is a 2022 Standard , the DR200 is a good campfire guitar , it usually sits in the living room of my house where i can pick it up when ever i want to dable and not too worried if it gets dinged where as the J45 is locked away and I'll bring it out to play.
Sounds great. I'm a big fan of Gibson acoustics. I have a J45 Standard, a J15, and a Songwriter. Mahogany, walnut and rosewood woods, respectively. All three need to stay between 40% and 46% humidity. Higher than that, and the sound gets a little choked out. Maybe it's due to thicker wood bracing?
Absolutely a great point, Mike, about the humidification. Mine stay at a constant 45%. I learned that hard lesson on my first 45 Standard. I think this one just needed to broken in. I really appreciate the insights, brother man 👍🏻
Hey there, Cody. Great to see your smiling face, brother man. I really appreciate the kind words! Looking forward to your next bombshell video, my friend 👍🏻
Loved your playing for the intro Randy, that was amazing! Always cool to have a change of heart. I do find that sometimes it takes a while for them to 'bed in', I had this with my first Les Paul - just didn't feel right, then now, nothing else does!:)
Wonderful review of this beautiful looking and sounding guitar, I'm very pleased it's starting to find its voice, acoustic instruments are strange creatures and take a while to sound really great, I have a fiddle for years and only in the past few months has it started to sound really good, it's all very organic I suppose I'm not really sure about this kind of stuff 😁 anyway great talk and some lovely playing Randy, very well done my friend 🎸👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏻
Hi Trevor, it’s amazing what a wee bit of patience can do, eh? Your fiddle example is a perfect one to talk about, especially if it’s the one you still use in your videos. It sounds beautiful. Always appreciate your insights and feedback. I hope gigging has been active and the time spent doing it is valuable, brother man 👍🏻. Thank you for the kind words.
Randy Sir, I was waiting for this video. The first time I heard you fingerpicking on it in an earlier video, I thought: oh , he makes the guitar sound good...so he likes it...all the best...
Sir Paul, you made my day, showing up on the channel. It’s been a day or two, so I hope you and yours are doing well. Thank you so much for the kind words and I am looking forward to your next upload, brother man 👍🏻
Here's a tip if you want to hear a guitar more the way those in front of you would hear it. Sit an a stool or chair facing a wall and play. The sound you'll hear will be partly through the guitar and partly reflected from the front to the wall and back to your ears. It depends how reflective the wall is.
Hi Micky, a great tip! This really is a great way to properly hear your guitar. Really appreciate this insight and I think it will really help all of us, brother man 👍🏻
Thanks for posting. I have a beautiful Taylor custom order with mahogany back amd sides that I will be keeping but I would like to also have a dreadnaught. I've tried the Martin D18 and D28. I have also tried a few J45's and I really like how it feels and sounds. I will be trying a Martin D35 next but I'm thinking I will be bringing home a Gibson J45 just like yours. Beautiful looking and sounding guitar! 😊
Hi Ron, it’s a great, sweet sounding guitar, for sure. That Taylor sounds like a dream guitar. You’re most welcome for the post and I really appreciate you sharing, brother man 👍🏻
Great review Randy, and awesome picking. Sounds like this J-45 has developed "Inclusive Resonance " . When you start to feel the sound others hear, a guitar is coming into its own right. Play on brother.
Hey Randy...great video of your J-45 50's...glad to hear it has opened up for you! I grabbed one a year ago and when i play a few Stapleton tunes on it i'm floored...that Gibson woody tone is hard to beat! Great picking and keep the videos coming! Cheers!
Thanks, Dean. I was sure about to sell it and very glad it finally started opening up some. Appreciate you listening and especially for the feedback, brother man 👍🏻
In 1991 My dad bought a brand new J-45 to replace an ES-295 lost in a fire. By this point in his life he never played the J-45 due to numerous factors. It sat there for a couple years and I asked if I could use it to take lessons. My instructor convinces me the guitar sounded horrible and offered to do a bunch of work. He attempted a fret job, and I do mean attempted. He changed the radius of the saddle and lowered it excessively to where there was dead notes and buzzing on the low e. Other things he screwed up was the finish around the nut along with lowering the notches in the nut too much too. Believe it or not he got glue on the body of the guitar as well next to the strap button. It was put in storage after that and I'm in the process of getting it fixed now. Take all those issues out of the equation and it still looks new. I've been assured however that it can be fixed so no one would ever know. I hope he's right.
Hi Jim, there are way too many amateur luthiers out there and unfortunately you found one. I’m sure his intentions were good, but it is really sad to hear of the issues he created. It can be corrected with the right hand on it, so hopefully that’s the case here. A 30+ year old J-45 should sound as sweet as honey when you get it back. Thanks for the story and let me know how it turns out, brother man 👍🏻
Hi David, great to hear that. Mine is continuing to open up and certainly has developed that Gibson tone that I’m accustomed to hearing. It’s surely a keeper. Appreciate you stopping in to share your experience with it, brother man 👍🏻
Guilty as charged. I've done the same thing to the point of trading or selling some guitars , then later regretting it. Patience is indeed a virtue! Wish I had some! Thanks for the demo and the advice.
Hey Randy, how does the Gibson 50's J-45 compare to the Epiphone IBG Hummingbird. I was going to splash out on a Gibson J-45 Standard but wondering if it's worth getting the Epiphone IBG and saving the money.
Here in Australia the big name in locally made guitars is Maton. Back in 1997 a friend of mine bought a Maton Dreadnought. It was made from Australian timbers that no one outside of our continent would know anything about, so when I went over to his place to check it out and it sounded extremely lacklustre, I put it down to the woods used in manufacture and thought to myself . . "Dude, you bought yourself a dud!" Of course I only thought that, and didn't let on how unimpressed with the guitar I was. Mark had his PA set up in his living room and everything, TV, radio, CD player, cassette deck, etc, was plugged into it. His acoustic Maton sounded kinda OK through his PA, but still nowhere near great. It was about that time when I began my solo career and I was pretty busy getting everything underway to make that happen. So it was around the middle of 1998 before I was able to get to Mark's place to hang out and jam again. As I was walking up the front steps to his living room I heard what I assumed was his Maton being played through his PA, and I remember thinking how far improved it sounded compared to when he first got it. Imagine my surprise when I found him playing it NOT plugged into anything! That's how much it had "opened up" in the past six months. I told him "I take back everything I was thinking about this instrument".
Hi Arthur, so very pleased to hear from you with such a great story about a great guitar builder, Maton. I have a good friend that bought one last year, made from Blackwood. That thing sings like an angel. I first heard of Maton after seeing Tommy Emmanuel play one. At some point, I’ll be getting one. I have a few friends in Australia, so glad to see you watching and commenting on here. It’s an honor to have you here, brother man and a point well made about how guitars open up 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm . .Hey Randy, thanks for your very friendly welcome! Yeah, that was the point of my comment. Acoustic guitars do indeed open up, and Matons in particular are legendary for doing that extraordinarily well. I'm not an acoustic player myself. I'm electric Blues-Rock all the way. I came upon this video because I'd been watching a video from the Gibson daily emails that they send me . . and when that one had finished, yours came up next. You're a very handy finger-picker there, my friend . . a skill I never worked on myself due to being thrust into a working band as lead guitarist very early in my guitar-playing career as a teenager back in 1973. Just didn't have time. Then one thing led to another and next thing I knew I was going full-time into the music industry as a solo act, playing Blues-Rock naturally. LOL. That was 25 years ago and I only recently had to retire against my wishes due to problems with my hands. After gigging every weekend during those 25 years and going flat out from Friday morning when I left home to go on the long drive to my first gig way out in the country, to arriving back home Sunday evening, or even in the early hours of Monday morning, the last thing I felt like doing was practising! I did go every second Wednesday to jam with my band, but that was about it. And now that I'm retired and have the time, I can't play!! Dagnabit!
Great video. Guitar sounds really nice. I’m trying to decide now between the 50s J-45 & the newly re-released Guild D-50. Both are at that $2900(ish) price point. I’m leaning towards the Guild since my very first acoustic was a Guild. But this 50’s J-45 always turns my head as well. Love the look with the pick-guard removed. Thanks for sharing.
Hi David, that Guild is one killer guitar. Good luck with choosing, because that choice would make a sane man crazy. I have a bit higher opinion of the Guild 50, but I’m more partial to square shoulders. Thanks for a great observation, brother man 👍🏻
Yes Randy! Couldn't agree with you more! I keep singing its praises, but the more I play my IBG Hummingbird, the better it' sounds to me! Been keeping it humidified and I play it daily ( at least an hour a day), and it just keeps impressing me. I have a new passion from playing (because I'm playing the best I ever have for whatever weird reason) and I have YOU to thank for it👏👏 What is the science behind these instruments opening up?
If I helped in any way, Mason, then I’m beyond grateful and you are most welcome. As far as the sound opening up, I don’t think anyone has ever done a scientific study on it. However, our own ears seem to tell the story that it is a fact. Wood is made up of cellulose fibers and this is just an opinion, but I think those fibers move and age over time. I think that gets accelerated when they continuously vibrate. If I had to guess, which I’m going to do here, it never really settles back to its exact original state. Between the temperature, humidity, the amount of pressure applied when strumming or picking, it suffers constant and light changes that eventually lead to a settling point. It may continue to change after that, but the changes seem to be more subtle as time goes on. One thing is for sure, a properly built guitar is going to go through this process. I’ve always thought of a properly humidified guitar as a lot like a Christmas tree. It continues, on some small level, to remain dynamic, instead of static. Eventually, I’m pretty sure, it reaches a settling point, but when that is, who knows. I hope this helps, brother man 👍🏻
Well Colonel ,, I think you made the right choice. If you can get that swampy rug time sound like you are getting , it is going to get good`r and good`r !
Hi Colonel, I think it was Trevor Hansbury in the comments on this one that these beasts are organic. I thought that was a great way to put it. Yes sir, I’m with you. I do think it’s just going to get better, brother man 👍🏻
It's certainly a lovely instrument, Randy. Glad you decided to give it a second chance. I always wonder if acoustic instruments take longer to bed in than electric ones? I know that when I'm trying an electric guitar in a shop, I rarely plug it in - unless I actually like how it sounds and plays acoustically.
I’ve never even thought about the acoustic properties of solid bodied electrics. Now I have something to ponder a bit. Great points and much appreciated, Dunsy. Loving what you’ve done with your channel, brother man 🥃👍🏻
I take issue with epiphone masterbilt. I've played two of them ,yes, the gibson had more shimmer. The Indonesian guitars are surprisingly well but with a very good sound. I would not count them out. Your J45 opend beautifully.
Great point and I certainly wouldn’t count them out either. In fact, I own 3 Epiphone acoustics that are Masterbilt and love all of them 👍🏻 By the way, only the main factory Epiphones are in question with me. The Masterbilt guitars are the ones that I’ll give a chance. I’ve had really good experiences with them. The Masterbilt factory is the Indonesian custom shop. I just wanted to make that clear, so I am not misunderstood 👍🏻
I played a bunch of new Gibson Dreadnoughts and none of em impressed me. That was until I found a 2018 J35 on a second hand site and immediately I knew it was a keeper
Hi Andre, it’s crazy sometimes how different guitars cay be from the same builder! I’d like to pick up a 35 at some point. Great story and glad you landed a keeper, brother man 👍🏻
Thanks Gerald. I should have pulled it out while you were here. It really makes a difference when you sit across from any guitar. I always try to get someone to play the guitar I’m interested in while I’m in the store, if it’s possible. I’m not always successful, but it’s pretty amazing how it can sometimes swing you 👍🏻
I NEVER buy a guitar the cost over $1000 that isn't factory sealed. I've seen far too many things happen to guitars hanging on the wall. I don't like people touching my stuff. I bought a J-45 standard a week ago. I really like it. It's brighter than my Martin.
Hi Jimmy, considering the 2 Martins you have, that’s quite a compliment to the J-45. I loved my Standard and wish I still had it. Appreciate you sharing your experience, brother man 👍🏻
Hi Ms Brooke, I know you ladies don’t have very many birthdays, but the next one you do have, you might hint to that great guy you’re married to that a Gibson acoustic would be a great bd present 😁. Let me know if it worked. Thank you for sharing and you are most welcome, ma’am 👍🏻
From what I've experienced when playing in the store next to a j45 standard, and heard this from others, is that the guitar is just a softer sweeter but significantly quieter sound. Not a negative necessarily, just a noted, consistent, difference. Would you agree?
Hey Randy, thank you for this review, your second thoughts and your fine playing! What do you think about the acoustical difference between J-45 Standards and J-45 Custom Shop version, built in Montana? I really like the new J-45 Custom in all black with a Les Paul style neck look-wise. Like the standard it has a spruce top and Mahogany back and sides, but a thinner 60s slim taper neck. The price is twice as high as the standard. Is it build better, with better woods or is the difference mainly superficial?
Hi Martin, you are most welcome and thank you for the kind words. I think the only difference is the neck and appointments. The inlays are much nicer on the Custom and a lot of people like the neck, as opposed to the one I’m playing here, which is more of a 50’s profile. As far as sound goes, they’re probably identical. I’m not opposed to holding something a bit uglier, but if if it’s pretty, I’m not going to argue with it, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Hey Randy, thanks again for your estimation and opinion! I think I need to get this J-45 Custom into my hands, play it and compare it to the J-45 Standard. (I'm not opposed to a pretty guitar either.)
Hi Alvin, sonically they are going to be ever so close. The main differences that I can see are the neck profile (50’s chunky), pickguard and more retro looking tuners on the 50’s version. That said, it’s going to come down to your taste in appointments. I’m a retro guy, so I really am liking this guitar a lot. Admittedly, I like a slightly thicker neck and this one is perfect. I hope this helps, brother man 👍🏻
Hi,nice thoughts, Iv'e owned 2 Gidson's,1 an old 70' a Hummingbird & a late 90's model, however both seemed over built, & volume wise couldn't match the Chinese made Acoustic's I was listening to.I had 'em for some time but moved nothing improved so moved them on, just my experiences for what it's worth. But I enjoyed your playing, cheers 😊😊
Hi Ms Susan, yes’m, there are just simply guitars that refuse to cooperate and open up. As I mentioned in the video, I’ve never picked up a Gibson J-45 that didn’t sound amazing with the first strum. I was so disappointed. That said, this one got better daily, which blew my mind, to say the least. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you taking the time to make such great points here. You’re welcome at my fire anytime, ma’am 👍🏻
Hi Randy greetings from Ireland. I spotted a 50's Gibson J45 in a music shop near me and hated the pickguard, it was far too big, had it been like the one on the standard model, no problem, and it was to only reason I didn't buy it.
Hey Randy! Speaking of J45’s, have you had a chance to try out a Guild 240s-Memoir yet from their Westerly collection? It’s a budget J45-style guitar that retails for just over $500USD. I played one yesterday at my local shop and was blown away by the quality. Would be cool to see you do a review if you ever get the chance!
Hi Chris, no sir, I don’t think I’ve ever even seen one before. I’ll go look at them on Reverb and see this beast. Sometime in the next month I’ll try to find one in a guitar store. I’ll be in Montreal in November and I’ll look there too. Thanks for the heads up, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm That’s awesome! Try and play a bunch of Seagull guitars while you’re there, they’re built right in Quebec. Montreal is Godin ground zero!
I have the same problem, but mostly with mahogany guitars. When I sit across from the person playing it, it sounds great, but when I get behind the guitar to play it, it doesn't sound that great. It sounds muddy, not very clear, or difficult to hear and connect with. Honestly, I'm not very sure what the problem is . Whatever the reason, it just isn't a good playing experience, and I noticed that it happens to me with mahogany guitars. My hearing is impaired, so I think that may be the problem. The only solution I have found is to play and own guitars made of spruce and rosewood.
Hey Ovash, if I’m in a store, I try to get someone to play it, then play it myself. It seems the only way to get the match I’m looking for. There’s the fundamental problem with ordering online, sometimes a home run and sometimes not so much. You make a great point, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm I'm sure it is. I've got three old Gibson's. A J-200, J-50 and a Southern Jumbo. They are all great recording guitars. Nothing like a good Gibson. Good luck with yours!
Hi Dana, you are so right, brother man 👍🏻 Just curious, that’s the second time you’ve called me Kyle. The good news is that I pretty much answerer to anything 🤣
@@randysrhythm ok 👍🏻 Randy, I saw someone called you Kyle so I thought that might be your name, and Randy was your screen name, my mistake my apologies. PeAce ☮️
@@danaeverhart6487 Actually it was funny, so no need to apologize. But, I knew you’d probably feel bad if you found out from someone else and I had never mentioned it. I have done that so many times myself. Not a worry in the world, brother man 👍🏻
thank you, Randy. but the question was, do you use Martin Retro mm12 Nickel strings on the Gibson 50 J45? or another brand. Thank you Gr Peter from Amsterdam
Hi Cody, while some may not care for my answer here, I have to tell you that it’s the Hummingbird. I never thought I’d say that about Epiphone, brother man 👍🏻
I actually have both. They are different animals by design. The IBG Hummingbird is big, bold and bright. It is what a hummingbird is supposed to be. Very close to Gibson and for the money Epiphone by far wins this. The Gibson 50's J45 faded I have has opened up and is so discreet and subtle when asked to be. It also strums great. I like the J45 for Travis picking and emotive work. The Hummingbird for when I want to be Graham Parsons or Keith Richards.
Hey there, appreciate you reaching out. That is a little tune I developed to get my fingerstyle speed to increase. It’s one of the tunes I use to warm up and get my fingers awake, so to speak. Nobody has ever asked me what tune that was, so I just assumed it was junk 😂. I really appreciate you asking about it 👍🏻
Most, if not all Gibsons, have the LR Baggs. These are typically considered top notch. I’ve plugged several of my Gibsons in and they’re decent. I’m more of the type that prefers to mic any acoustic, so I may not be the best person to answer that.
I agree sometimes it takes a while, sometimes years for an acoustic guitar to sound really good. Great to listen to you picking this one!
Yip, that intro finger-picking is something else….👍🏴🎸🇺🇸
for sure!@@graham1745
Ms Rose! Great to see you and get your thoughts on this. I have become convinced that you are correct, ma’am. I never really know if my playing drives folks to the channel, or drives them away 😂. Thanks for the kind words, ma’am 👍🏻
@@graham1745You are too kind, Graham. Thank you, brother man 👍🏻
Yes that's true sometimes it takes time to improve, but also (experience will tell you) they simply Don't Improve, that's been for Me an important lesson also to learn 😊😊
Dang it Randy.....That Windy and warm sound is kickin' my but. Thats a hard one for me but I'm learning
Hang in there brother man, you’ll get it 👍🏻
You’re a Class Act Randy. thank you for your honesty and owning your mistakes. God Bless!
Hi Otis, you’re too kind. You are certainly welcome and it’s great to hear from you, brother man 👍🏻
Brother Randy, this is a great refresh on this guitar. As players, I sometimes feel we are a bit cheated out of the best sounds coming from our guitar, because we are behind, rather than in front, of them. This guitar sounds fantastic, and not in a 'new guitar' way, but in a 'vintage guitar' way. I'm glad you decided to keep it, I don't think you'll regret it!
My brother Paul! Yes sir, I think that’s right. I’ve got a relationship in Hawkins, Texas and you’ve heard me mention him on the channel, Kelly Barber. Back when he was Taylor’s #1 seller, he took a TV satellite dish and customized it with Taylor’s name in it and then had folks play the guitar in front of it. It was genius. He still has it in his acoustic room. I said all of that to say, I think you’re on to something there. Thanks, brother man 👍🏻
I am so happy that guitar worked out for you Randy. I figured it would open up after playing it a while. Very nice update review my friend.
Hi David, I’m super impatient when it comes to guitars, as you know. I’m glad someone didn’t make an offer when I first put it up for sale. Always appreciate you and thanks for the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
Say hey to the family for me.
@@randysrhythm
Will do Randy.
I bought a new j-45 in 2020. It has a 2021 serial number. It's a keeper. It sounds as good as yours. It's a standard model. And yes it sounds even better today.
Hi Jimmy, they are certainly fantastic sounding guitars and the test of time has proven that fact, brother man 👍🏻
Hello Randy, Well done and good review update
Hi Charlie, thank you, brother man 👍🏻
I remember the first video, and I can tell the difference in the sound. That J-45 sure is a beauty to see.......maybe it's because the pick guard was removed....
but there's something visually special about that one. Nice video buddy.
Hi Tom, removing the pickguard helped, I think, but the larger contributor to me was just to playing the living dog out of it. You probably know more about this than I do, but it sounds better to me when I individualize, or harmonize the notes, than when I strum it. Could that be because the top is opening, but just not fully there yet?
Always appreciate your feedback and insights. Thanks for the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm I'm glad that one turned out to be a keeper.....because it sure looks and sounds great.
I have to agree with you about the guitar opening up , i bought my J45 this year in May , without a doubt a beautiful sounding guitar , I'm definitely waiting for it to feel worked in. I have a 2007 Epiphone DR200 inexpensive guitar but it still sounds amazing.
Hi Shane, I’ve heard a few DR200’s that made my head turn a bit. Inexpensive yes, but if it was made on the right day, so to speak, it’s a cannon. Did you get the Standard 45? I think those are my favorites of the lot. There’s nothing standard about the sound. Appreciate you sharing your thoughts here, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm hi Randy mine is a 2022 Standard , the DR200 is a good campfire guitar , it usually sits in the living room of my house where i can pick it up when ever i want to dable and not too worried if it gets dinged where as the J45 is locked away and I'll bring it out to play.
Sounds great. I'm a big fan of Gibson acoustics. I have a J45 Standard, a J15, and a Songwriter. Mahogany, walnut and rosewood woods, respectively. All three need to stay between 40% and 46% humidity. Higher than that, and the sound gets a little choked out. Maybe it's due to thicker wood bracing?
Absolutely a great point, Mike, about the humidification. Mine stay at a constant 45%. I learned that hard lesson on my first 45 Standard. I think this one just needed to broken in. I really appreciate the insights, brother man 👍🏻
Great review as always Randy! My brother in law was looking at a Gibson J45. I’m gonna send him this review
Hey there, Cody. Great to see your smiling face, brother man. I really appreciate the kind words! Looking forward to your next bombshell video, my friend 👍🏻
Loved your playing for the intro Randy, that was amazing! Always cool to have a change of heart. I do find that sometimes it takes a while for them to 'bed in', I had this with my first Les Paul - just didn't feel right, then now, nothing else does!:)
Great analysis and thanks for the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
Wonderful review of this beautiful looking and sounding guitar, I'm very pleased it's starting to find its voice, acoustic instruments are strange creatures and take a while to sound really great, I have a fiddle for years and only in the past few months has it started to sound really good, it's all very organic I suppose I'm not really sure about this kind of stuff 😁 anyway great talk and some lovely playing Randy, very well done my friend 🎸👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏻
Hi Trevor, it’s amazing what a wee bit of patience can do, eh? Your fiddle example is a perfect one to talk about, especially if it’s the one you still use in your videos. It sounds beautiful. Always appreciate your insights and feedback. I hope gigging has been active and the time spent doing it is valuable, brother man 👍🏻. Thank you for the kind words.
Randy Sir, I was waiting for this video. The first time I heard you fingerpicking on it in an earlier video, I thought: oh , he makes the guitar sound good...so he likes it...all the best...
Sir Paul, you made my day, showing up on the channel. It’s been a day or two, so I hope you and yours are doing well. Thank you so much for the kind words and I am looking forward to your next upload, brother man 👍🏻
Here's a tip if you want to hear a guitar more the way those in front of you would hear it. Sit an a stool or chair facing a wall and play. The sound you'll hear will be partly through the guitar and partly reflected from the front to the wall and back to your ears. It depends how reflective the wall is.
Hi Micky, a great tip! This really is a great way to properly hear your guitar. Really appreciate this insight and I think it will really help all of us, brother man 👍🏻
I have old plaster walls. My hallway is like an acoustic amplifier.
Thanks for posting. I have a beautiful Taylor custom order with mahogany back amd sides that I will be keeping but I would like to also have a dreadnaught. I've tried the Martin D18 and D28. I have also tried a few J45's and I really like how it feels and sounds. I will be trying a Martin D35 next but I'm thinking I will be bringing home a Gibson J45 just like yours. Beautiful looking and sounding guitar! 😊
Hi Ron, it’s a great, sweet sounding guitar, for sure. That Taylor sounds like a dream guitar. You’re most welcome for the post and I really appreciate you sharing, brother man 👍🏻
Great review Randy, and awesome picking. Sounds like this J-45 has developed "Inclusive Resonance " . When you start to feel the sound others hear, a guitar is coming into its own right. Play on brother.
Thank you, Terry. I use that phrase a lot more often, since you first mentioned it. Always appreciate you, brother man 👍🏻
Hey Randy...great video of your J-45 50's...glad to hear it has opened up for you! I grabbed one a year ago and when i play a few Stapleton tunes on it i'm floored...that Gibson woody tone is hard to beat! Great picking and keep the videos coming! Cheers!
Hi John, appreciate the encouragement and the feedback. I agree, there’s something about a Gibson, brother man 👍🏻
Glad you’re keeping it. It sounds great!
Thanks, Dean. I was sure about to sell it and very glad it finally started opening up some. Appreciate you listening and especially for the feedback, brother man 👍🏻
In 1991 My dad bought a brand new J-45 to replace an ES-295 lost in a fire. By this point in his life he never played the J-45 due to numerous factors. It sat there for a couple years and I asked if I could use it to take lessons. My instructor convinces me the guitar sounded horrible and offered to do a bunch of work. He attempted a fret job, and I do mean attempted. He changed the radius of the saddle and lowered it excessively to where there was dead notes and buzzing on the low e.
Other things he screwed up was the finish around the nut along with lowering the notches in the nut too much too. Believe it or not he got glue on the body of the guitar as well next to the strap button. It was put in storage after that and I'm in the process of getting it fixed now. Take all those issues out of the equation and it still looks new. I've been assured however that it can be fixed so no one would ever know. I hope he's right.
Hi Jim, there are way too many amateur luthiers out there and unfortunately you found one. I’m sure his intentions were good, but it is really sad to hear of the issues he created. It can be corrected with the right hand on it, so hopefully that’s the case here. A 30+ year old J-45 should sound as sweet as honey when you get it back. Thanks for the story and let me know how it turns out, brother man 👍🏻
I just bought a 2023 Gibson 50's J45 reissue. It is an excellent sounding guitar right from the start. I know the sound will get better as I play it.
Hi David, great to hear that. Mine is continuing to open up and certainly has developed that Gibson tone that I’m accustomed to hearing. It’s surely a keeper. Appreciate you stopping in to share your experience with it, brother man 👍🏻
Guilty as charged. I've done the same thing to the point of trading or selling some guitars , then later regretting it. Patience is indeed a virtue! Wish I had some! Thanks for the demo and the advice.
Hi David, great to at least know that I’m not alone. Appreciate the view and the feedback, brother man 👍🏻
Great review Randy!! I think thats a keeper!!!!! Sounded great to me!!!!
Thank you, Ms J-Lyn! Haven’t seen an upload from you lately. Soon? Great hearing from you, ma’am 👍🏻
Love your style Randy sounds awesome nice video
Thanks, Oz! Much appreciated my friend 👍🏻
Hey Randy, how does the Gibson 50's J-45 compare to the Epiphone IBG Hummingbird. I was going to splash out on a Gibson J-45 Standard but wondering if it's worth getting the Epiphone IBG and saving the money.
Hey Randy!!! Sounds cool man! Great review. I have this guitar. Good job!!
Thanks, Xai! Yes sir, they are great guitars, brother man 👍🏻
Great review and wonderful pickin' 😊
Thank you, brother man Bruce 👍🏻
I agree, and that guitar sounds great! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you very much 👍🏻
Here in Australia the big name in locally made guitars is Maton. Back in 1997 a friend of mine bought a Maton Dreadnought. It was made from Australian timbers that no one outside of our continent would know anything about, so when I went over to his place to check it out and it sounded extremely lacklustre, I put it down to the woods used in manufacture and thought to myself . . "Dude, you bought yourself a dud!" Of course I only thought that, and didn't let on how unimpressed with the guitar I was. Mark had his PA set up in his living room and everything, TV, radio, CD player, cassette deck, etc, was plugged into it. His acoustic Maton sounded kinda OK through his PA, but still nowhere near great. It was about that time when I began my solo career and I was pretty busy getting everything underway to make that happen. So it was around the middle of 1998 before I was able to get to Mark's place to hang out and jam again. As I was walking up the front steps to his living room I heard what I assumed was his Maton being played through his PA, and I remember thinking how far improved it sounded compared to when he first got it. Imagine my surprise when I found him playing it NOT plugged into anything! That's how much it had "opened up" in the past six months. I told him "I take back everything I was thinking about this instrument".
Hi Arthur, so very pleased to hear from you with such a great story about a great guitar builder, Maton. I have a good friend that bought one last year, made from Blackwood. That thing sings like an angel. I first heard of Maton after seeing Tommy Emmanuel play one. At some point, I’ll be getting one. I have a few friends in Australia, so glad to see you watching and commenting on here. It’s an honor to have you here, brother man and a point well made about how guitars open up 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm . .Hey Randy, thanks for your very friendly welcome! Yeah, that was the point of my comment. Acoustic guitars do indeed open up, and Matons in particular are legendary for doing that extraordinarily well.
I'm not an acoustic player myself. I'm electric Blues-Rock all the way. I came upon this video because I'd been watching a video from the Gibson daily emails that they send me . . and when that one had finished, yours came up next.
You're a very handy finger-picker there, my friend . . a skill I never worked on myself due to being thrust into a working band as lead guitarist very early in my guitar-playing career as a teenager back in 1973. Just didn't have time. Then one thing led to another and next thing I knew I was going full-time into the music industry as a solo act, playing Blues-Rock naturally. LOL. That was 25 years ago and I only recently had to retire against my wishes due to problems with my hands. After gigging every weekend during those 25 years and going flat out from Friday morning when I left home to go on the long drive to my first gig way out in the country, to arriving back home Sunday evening, or even in the early hours of Monday morning, the last thing I felt like doing was practising! I did go every second Wednesday to jam with my band, but that was about it. And now that I'm retired and have the time, I can't play!! Dagnabit!
All things nobody ever told us was coming our way 😂. I suppose our dad’s didn’t want to depress us at a young age 👍🏻
Great video. Guitar sounds really nice. I’m trying to decide now between the 50s J-45 & the newly re-released Guild D-50. Both are at that $2900(ish) price point. I’m leaning towards the Guild since my very first acoustic was a Guild. But this 50’s J-45 always turns my head as well. Love the look with the pick-guard removed. Thanks for sharing.
Hi David, that Guild is one killer guitar. Good luck with choosing, because that choice would make a sane man crazy. I have a bit higher opinion of the Guild 50, but I’m more partial to square shoulders. Thanks for a great observation, brother man 👍🏻
Yes Randy! Couldn't agree with you more! I keep singing its praises, but the more I play my IBG Hummingbird, the better it' sounds to me! Been keeping it humidified and I play it daily ( at least an hour a day), and it just keeps impressing me. I have a new passion from playing (because I'm playing the best I ever have for whatever weird reason) and I have YOU to thank for it👏👏 What is the science behind these instruments opening up?
If I helped in any way, Mason, then I’m beyond grateful and you are most welcome. As far as the sound opening up, I don’t think anyone has ever done a scientific study on it. However, our own ears seem to tell the story that it is a fact. Wood is made up of cellulose fibers and this is just an opinion, but I think those fibers move and age over time. I think that gets accelerated when they continuously vibrate. If I had to guess, which I’m going to do here, it never really settles back to its exact original state. Between the temperature, humidity, the amount of pressure applied when strumming or picking, it suffers constant and light changes that eventually lead to a settling point. It may continue to change after that, but the changes seem to be more subtle as time goes on. One thing is for sure, a properly built guitar is going to go through this process. I’ve always thought of a properly humidified guitar as a lot like a Christmas tree. It continues, on some small level, to remain dynamic, instead of static. Eventually, I’m pretty sure, it reaches a settling point, but when that is, who knows.
I hope this helps, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Fantastic explanation...thank you!
I like yours without Pickguard.
Maybe I'll pull mine too
Hey BB, I do think you’ll like it much better without it. Thanks for stopping in and sharing your thoughts, brother man 👍🏻
Beautiful performance brother thanks for sharing
Thank you, and you are most welcome 👍🏻
Beautiful Guitar, very nice playing. Thanks.
Thank you, Gary! Appreciate you, brother man 👍🏻
Some guitars need some time…sounds great in your hands !! Best wishes from Austria
Hi Daniel, great to see you and you certainly nailed it. Thank you for the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
Well Colonel ,, I think you made the right choice. If you can get that swampy rug time sound like you are getting , it is going to get good`r and good`r !
Hi Colonel, I think it was Trevor Hansbury in the comments on this one that these beasts are organic. I thought that was a great way to put it. Yes sir, I’m with you. I do think it’s just going to get better, brother man 👍🏻
It's certainly a lovely instrument, Randy. Glad you decided to give it a second chance. I always wonder if acoustic instruments take longer to bed in than electric ones? I know that when I'm trying an electric guitar in a shop, I rarely plug it in - unless I actually like how it sounds and plays acoustically.
I’ve never even thought about the acoustic properties of solid bodied electrics. Now I have something to ponder a bit. Great points and much appreciated, Dunsy.
Loving what you’ve done with your channel, brother man 🥃👍🏻
I take issue with epiphone masterbilt. I've played two of them ,yes, the gibson had more shimmer. The Indonesian guitars are surprisingly well but with a very good sound. I would not count them out. Your J45 opend beautifully.
Great point and I certainly wouldn’t count them out either. In fact, I own 3 Epiphone acoustics that are Masterbilt and love all of them 👍🏻
By the way, only the main factory Epiphones are in question with me. The Masterbilt guitars are the ones that I’ll give a chance. I’ve had really good experiences with them. The Masterbilt factory is the Indonesian custom shop. I just wanted to make that clear, so I am not misunderstood 👍🏻
Wow....Love rhe sound of rhis guitar.
And you enspired me for my learning how to play....thank ya and God Bless
Thank you, Eddie and glad I could help, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm ❤️
I played a bunch of new Gibson Dreadnoughts and none of em impressed me. That was until I found a 2018 J35 on a second hand site and immediately I knew it was a keeper
Hi Andre, it’s crazy sometimes how different guitars cay be from the same builder! I’d like to pick up a 35 at some point. Great story and glad you landed a keeper, brother man 👍🏻
Great review brother! I wish I’d played this one. I’ve played late 60’s Gibson acoustics. But never a 50’s Next time. 😂. Take care my friend!
Thanks Gerald. I should have pulled it out while you were here. It really makes a difference when you sit across from any guitar. I always try to get someone to play the guitar I’m interested in while I’m in the store, if it’s possible. I’m not always successful, but it’s pretty amazing how it can sometimes swing you 👍🏻
Interesting upload - thanks buddy!! 👍🏻 Regards, Dave
Thanks, Dave 👍🏻
😊...greatly appreciated...brother man...
Hi Stephen, you are most welcome, brother man 👍🏻
Definitely got it coming out, nice🍻
Thank you, James 👍🏻
I NEVER buy a guitar the cost over $1000 that isn't factory sealed. I've seen far too many things happen to guitars hanging on the wall. I don't like people touching my stuff. I bought a J-45 standard a week ago. I really like it. It's brighter than my Martin.
Yes sir, I get it for sure. The 45 is certainty a special instrument. Appreciate you sharing, brother man 👍🏻
I bought a 2020 j-45 standard and love it. Don't play my two martins as much anymore. The two martins are the hd-28 and d-35.
Hi Jimmy, considering the 2 Martins you have, that’s quite a compliment to the J-45. I loved my Standard and wish I still had it. Appreciate you sharing your experience, brother man 👍🏻
Same I bought a j45 and always have been a Martin man. But I’m thinking of selling my two martins as the j45 just does better overall.
@@paurelius885 maybe keep one Martin
There’s definitely a unique sound to these 45’s that just hits that sweet spot, brother man 👍🏻
I have a Les Paul but that's the only Gibson I have. I'd love to have a flat top. Thanks for sharing Randy.
Hi Ms Brooke, I know you ladies don’t have very many birthdays, but the next one you do have, you might hint to that great guy you’re married to that a Gibson acoustic would be a great bd present 😁. Let me know if it worked. Thank you for sharing and you are most welcome, ma’am 👍🏻
@randysrhythm that's a good idea Randy. 😉 😆
Hope you have a blessed day, my UA-cam friend.
From what I've experienced when playing in the store next to a j45 standard, and heard this from others, is that the guitar is just a softer sweeter but significantly quieter sound. Not a negative necessarily, just a noted, consistent, difference. Would you agree?
I believe you summed it up. That’s exactly what I’d say. Appreciate the feedback 👍🏻
Hey Randy, thank you for this review, your second thoughts and your fine playing! What do you think about the acoustical difference between J-45 Standards and J-45 Custom Shop version, built in Montana? I really like the new J-45 Custom in all black with a Les Paul style neck look-wise. Like the standard it has a spruce top and Mahogany back and sides, but a thinner 60s slim taper neck. The price is twice as high as the standard. Is it build better, with better woods or is the difference mainly superficial?
Hi Martin, you are most welcome and thank you for the kind words. I think the only difference is the neck and appointments. The inlays are much nicer on the Custom and a lot of people like the neck, as opposed to the one I’m playing here, which is more of a 50’s profile. As far as sound goes, they’re probably identical. I’m not opposed to holding something a bit uglier, but if if it’s pretty, I’m not going to argue with it, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Hey Randy, thanks again for your estimation and opinion! I think I need to get this J-45 Custom into my hands, play it and compare it to the J-45 Standard. (I'm not opposed to a pretty guitar either.)
Hey Randy! I was wondering if you think the 50s were finally better than the standard? I currently have a standard but really digging the 50s version.
Hi Alvin, sonically they are going to be ever so close. The main differences that I can see are the neck profile (50’s chunky), pickguard and more retro looking tuners on the 50’s version. That said, it’s going to come down to your taste in appointments. I’m a retro guy, so I really am liking this guitar a lot. Admittedly, I like a slightly thicker neck and this one is perfect. I hope this helps, brother man 👍🏻
Hi,nice thoughts, Iv'e owned 2 Gidson's,1 an old 70' a Hummingbird & a late 90's model, however both seemed over built, & volume wise couldn't match the Chinese made Acoustic's I was listening to.I had 'em for some time but moved nothing improved so moved them on, just my experiences for what it's worth. But I enjoyed your playing, cheers 😊😊
Hi Ms Susan, yes’m, there are just simply guitars that refuse to cooperate and open up. As I mentioned in the video, I’ve never picked up a Gibson J-45 that didn’t sound amazing with the first strum. I was so disappointed. That said, this one got better daily, which blew my mind, to say the least. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you taking the time to make such great points here. You’re welcome at my fire anytime, ma’am 👍🏻
A lot of times people don’t consider the strings being new. Isn’t always the wood
A great point and appreciate the additional insight, brother man 👍🏻
Hi Randy greetings from Ireland. I spotted a 50's Gibson J45 in a music shop near me and hated the pickguard, it was far too big, had it been like the one on the standard model, no problem, and it was to only reason I didn't buy it.
Hey Tonto, that pickguard is pretty massive, so I was pleased to find one that had been removed. Believe me, I get it, brother man 👍🏻
Hey Randy! Speaking of J45’s, have you had a chance to try out a Guild 240s-Memoir yet from their Westerly collection? It’s a budget J45-style guitar that retails for just over $500USD. I played one yesterday at my local shop and was blown away by the quality. Would be cool to see you do a review if you ever get the chance!
Hi Chris, no sir, I don’t think I’ve ever even seen one before. I’ll go look at them on Reverb and see this beast. Sometime in the next month I’ll try to find one in a guitar store. I’ll be in Montreal in November and I’ll look there too. Thanks for the heads up, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm That’s awesome! Try and play a bunch of Seagull guitars while you’re there, they’re built right in Quebec. Montreal is Godin ground zero!
@@chrisb8193 I plan to visit them. I’ve owned a few Seagulls over the years and they are decent guitars for sure 👍🏻
I have the same problem, but mostly with mahogany guitars. When I sit across from the person playing it, it sounds great, but when I get behind the guitar to play it, it doesn't sound that great. It sounds muddy, not very clear, or difficult to hear and connect with. Honestly, I'm not very sure what the problem is . Whatever the reason, it just isn't a good playing experience, and I noticed that it happens to me with mahogany guitars. My hearing is impaired, so I think that may be the problem. The only solution I have found is to play and own guitars made of spruce and rosewood.
Hey Ovash, if I’m in a store, I try to get someone to play it, then play it myself. It seems the only way to get the match I’m looking for. There’s the fundamental problem with ordering online, sometimes a home run and sometimes not so much. You make a great point, brother man 👍🏻
Sounds great! Like an old Gibson!
Hi MJT, yes sir, it’s a keeper. It really shines when recording, more so than when you’re playing it. I’d say it’s a recording hog, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm I'm sure it is. I've got three old Gibson's. A J-200, J-50 and a Southern Jumbo. They are all great recording guitars. Nothing like a good Gibson. Good luck with yours!
Sounds great, Randy. What kind of strings have you got on it?
Thank you, Mike. I use Martin Retro 12’s 👍🏻
That sounds great.
Thank you, J 👍🏻
I'm liking your Gibson, but I gotta tell ya Randy, I'd put the Excellante' 1st and The Gibson inspired Huumigbird.
Not by alot, but a noticibal bit 😎🎸
Yes sir, that Excellente has a richness that’s pretty dadgum tough to compete with 👍🏻
Great guitars are like fine wine. It takes time and Love ❤️ and care. PeAce my dear friend and Brother Kyle! You 🫵🏻😁✌🏻Rock
Hi Dana, you are so right, brother man 👍🏻
Just curious, that’s the second time you’ve called me Kyle. The good news is that I pretty much answerer to anything 🤣
@@randysrhythm is that your name or am I mistaken??
@@danaeverhart6487 randy’srhythm - Randy 😁
@@randysrhythm ok 👍🏻 Randy, I saw someone called you Kyle so I thought that might be your name, and Randy was your screen name, my mistake my apologies. PeAce ☮️
@@danaeverhart6487 Actually it was funny, so no need to apologize. But, I knew you’d probably feel bad if you found out from someone else and I had never mentioned it. I have done that so many times myself. Not a worry in the world, brother man 👍🏻
Excellent 👍😎
Thank you, Rowan 👍🏻
That is a hide glue guitar so that will take about 5 years to get opened up. My Gibson Stage De Luxe took about 7 years to fully open.
Hey brother man, of all the things that never crossed my mind! Much appreciated 👍🏻
Hoi Randy , you but also on this J45 the Martin retro string thank you great Peter from Amsterdam
Hi Peter, appreciate the comment. Great to have someone from Amsterdam on the channel, brother man 👍🏻
thank you, Randy. but the question was, do you use Martin Retro mm12 Nickel strings on the Gibson 50 J45? or another brand. Thank you Gr Peter from Amsterdam
Sorry Peter, I thought you were telling me that is what I had. Yes sir, I use Martin Retro 12’s on all of my guitars. I think they only come in monel.
Thank you Randy
What sounds better this or the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson hummingbird?
Hi Cody, while some may not care for my answer here, I have to tell you that it’s the Hummingbird. I never thought I’d say that about Epiphone, brother man 👍🏻
I actually have both. They are different animals by design. The IBG Hummingbird is big, bold and bright. It is what a hummingbird is supposed to be. Very close to Gibson and for the money Epiphone by far wins this. The Gibson 50's J45 faded I have has opened up and is so discreet and subtle when asked to be. It also strums great. I like the J45 for Travis picking and emotive work. The Hummingbird for when I want to be Graham Parsons or Keith Richards.
That’s a great analysis and I appreciate you laying it out clearly, brother man 👍🏻
Great performance
I leave bell activated and Lk
Stay connected
Thank you 👍🏻
Hey Randy, what is that tune you're picking there at the beginning?
Hey there, appreciate you reaching out. That is a little tune I developed to get my fingerstyle speed to increase. It’s one of the tunes I use to warm up and get my fingers awake, so to speak. Nobody has ever asked me what tune that was, so I just assumed it was junk 😂. I really appreciate you asking about it 👍🏻
Haha! I love it man, still working on getting it up to speed but it is a lot of fun to play. Cheers. @@randysrhythm
Much appreciated. Do you mind if I ask what your first name is?
Yes sir, name is Mike. @@randysrhythm
@user-nk3qx9ko3w Thanks, Mike 👍🏻
It's funny that Gibson's own J45 video sounds nothing like a Gibson should sound. Yours does.
Hi Bernie, maybe they need a cheaper microphone 😂. Very much appreciate those kind words, brother man 👍🏻
That cheep silkscreen logo kills a $3000 guitR
Hi Nicholas, I don’t think I’ve ever even looked closely at that before. Appreciate the feedback, brother man 👍🏻
Much rather have the silk screen over pearl on a J45
Imo there’s nothing like a Gibson acoustic if you get a really good en
How do you like the pickup?
Most, if not all Gibsons, have the LR Baggs. These are typically considered top notch. I’ve plugged several of my Gibsons in and they’re decent. I’m more of the type that prefers to mic any acoustic, so I may not be the best person to answer that.
what strings do you have on this guitar?
Hi Peter, I have Martin Retro 12’s on it.
@@randysrhythm thank you it does sound amazing. I have Martin Life span phosphor Bronze. I will give these a try.
Keren banget🥰🎶
Thank you 👍🏻