I had one that I gave away to a friend in need, his guitar got stolen. I got one today for $80 at offer up in like new condition. I can’t be happier, since I missed that guitar a lot. I had installed a telecaster neck pick up and sounded really big at church that a lot of people loved it. I plan to do the same with this one.
I’ve had one for about 7 or 8 years now. I bought it as a travel/backyard/camping guitar. It’s nowhere near as good as my main acoustic guitar, which is a Guild M-20, or even as good as my first acoustic guitar, a Yamaha FG-700s, but I still play it as much as any other instrument. It’s nice having such a playable guitar that’s so inexpensive that you never have to worry about it getting damaged.
So I've had one for a month now playing fingerstyle. I couldn't recommend this more at the price (mine was $169 free shipping). If you want a short scale small body that still amazingly sounds out, don't overlook this. Altered tunings? Of course. Soundboard wood? I couldn't care less, it sounds good. Action? For me just fine. Jeez people, this is a hang on the wall, play constantly, go anywhere, and make music machine.
I had one. Outside a lot so the bridge started to give. Replaced with floating bridge and tail piece. Also put good stainless keys on. Now very good outside durable guitar. Well worth the money spent on upgrades.
Had mine for 5 years. I play slide and finger style in open D. Not touched the action. All I do is change the strings. Great fun to play. Couldn’t recommend any more. 🇬🇧
@@JeffStarr remember watching this review before buying mine. It really helped. It’s pretty much the same dimensions as the alligator resonator by Gretsch. Which is my prized possession, but unfortunately too loud to play in my flat after reasonable hours. So the Dandy was intended as a quiet practice guitar. It’s become the guitar I play the most because it’s easy to handle and I love the feel of it. Trying to learn how to use finger picks at the moment. So I can have some volume when busking without having to buy and carry an amplifier. I have limited use of my left arm from injuries . Seriously thinking of getting a baby Taylor or the mini Martin. They are both the same easy to handle size but have a more rounded or full sound. The only time I feel the Dandy is limited is if I come out of the blues slide and finger picking style and want to strum some pop music. You seem to be able to get more of a range than I do.
@@Doowopsid I’m guessing you’re asking me. ? D’Addario phosphor bronze 12-53 light. I have experimented and they worked well with a 16 on the top E and an 18 on the B . I have also used the elixir coated ones. It’s mainly because I can get them a bit cheaper in a 3 pack and can’t justify buying expensive strings. I tried for two years to get the slide right. Then after buying a thick bottle neck slide from Catfish Keith when I saw him play and also finding a friend that could slide that I got the hang of it. I use plastic medicine bottles now. I don’t like the sound or can’t get the sound right when strumming normal pop songs. But for Svestapol finger picking or Travis picking or midnight special slide I don’t think you can get a better sounding guitar. I do hope it was me you were asking.
@@Oooo-bi7bi I really appreciate your detailed reply! Thank you. I’ve used the D’Addario 12-53’s and like them a lot. I’ve heard good things about the Martin Monel Retro 11’s and will be giving them a try as well. Thanks again!
Probably worth mentioning that it does have a truss rod. There was a bit of confusion on my part around the 'steel reinforced neck' sticker, a nod to the bad old days before truss rods. Thanks for the straight up review. Sounds like a nice guitar.
I picked one of these up this morning. Its a new colour they have, like a stripey tobacco brown. Looks awesome, and everything you said is true. Such a great value. Ive paid 30x more than this on guitars that arent half as fun to play.
Great review - I got my Jim Dandy last week - all you said is spot on Love this guitar - great sound - great feel - fabulous look - I give it 11 out of 10 😁
Have not picked up a guitar for nearly 30 years but just brought one of these bad boys. Have been looking for something to do other than being in front of a screen during my free time. Really looking forward to getting it
Great to hear! I can't believe how well modern guitars are made now. The stuff I learned on when I was a beginner was absolutely awful. :) Have fun and keep practicing!
I keep coming to this guitar for over three years.Was looking for an acoustic,and with so much choice out there I couldn't settle for anything,the good ones really cost a lot and this one not only is super cheap but looks a sounds great.Mic'd it will sound even better with a bit of added reverb.
The problem of the guitar-picker of today is to possess a real guitar, not an ectoplasmic guitar. The Jim Dandy is not a spoof, not a product of ingenuity for ingenuity's sake. It's a guitar that some people buy, get rid of, and then buy a second time because the pain of not having one becomes intolerable. It's extremely light and comfortable, and small enough to play inside the trunk of a car, a porta-potty, a dentist's chair, or a coffin. It can help you navigate when you're lost at sea. It can keep you falling from Humpty Dumpty's knee. When you're ready to drop society's bone, go fetch this instrument. Like a beehive, the Jim Dandy guitar can make both sweet and stinging sounds. Hammer-ons and pull-offs sound better on it than any guitar I've owned, imbuing them with a twang that hearkens back to a time when magic was real and people were not. Its sinewy sonics can punch holes through both sides of any argument. It's a street guitar, but don't ask it for directions. It has no respect for consensus reality. Pluck a simple melody on it to hear notes that are not ornamental but symbolic; they're expressive and puzzling, striking and disturbing -- food for thought and also for vultures. The Jim Dandy is greater than the sum of its parts. It's neither a toy nor a Ouija board with strings. It is not a possession. It has its own life story that runs along independently and occasionally intersects our own. I and the one I live with are currently mixed-up in a comedy about mistaken identity. It uses me to express itself, to put humanity in its place. What would a wooden puppet say if it could control the flesh-and-bone ventriloquist that's been exploiting it for years? A Jim Dandy might notice a wooden crucifix and say, "Copy-cat son!"
Originally acoustic guitars were close to this size, it wasn't until they had to compete for sound in an orchestra that they were made bigger, I love this size..
I played one of these yesterday for the first time at the local GC and I thought it was slick. Nice looking guitar thats easy and very comfortable to play. Definitely doesnt have a typical guitar tone. To my ear it has the sound of a resonator guitar. Which is an interesting tone. Ive heard the same tone on some Fleetwood Mac songs for example. Its a fun guitar, and among the surge of palor type guitars the 'Jim Dandy' does have its own unique style and is worthy of its name. Nice job Guild. If I see one on sale with a great set up, It will most likely get added into my collection.
Just picked up one of these for $125 new with free prime shipping. Got it so my 40 year old Guild dreadnought could have some rest and relaxation, and to have something more wield-y for couch and desk jamming and writing. It fits the bill perfectly. Great tone, very playable (especially if you came up on the "affordable" guitars of the 1980s to early 2000s. We truly live in the Golden age of affordable, hell downright cheap, instruments. My very first guitar was a mid 90s, MII Fender acoustic, can't remember the exact model, and for twice the price it had nothing on the Jim Dandy.
I just picked one up today! While shopping for accessories for my Les Paul Classic, I tried this out. It's so easy and fun to play that I just bought it. Very happy with it!
I Love my GJD Guitar. Put some nice strings on it and it is great. The first guitar I ever tried to play was in 1962 A Silvertone Parlor $15.00 from Sear Catalog Black with Faux Tiger Finish, I still have 2 of these one for Slide and One for Picking. The Gretsch Jim Dandy is the best value in today's market and it has a Truss Rod. The tone and quality of the construction is awesome.
THIS is why Gretsch is superior on almost every level. Their affordable travel acoustic is better out of the box than so many other guitars. I’ve played this guitar and it does sound great. Gretsch makes guitars that are phenomenal all around. Although Taylor makes better sounding acoustic guitars, they are just more expensive.
I own the baby Talylor and This Guitar. The Taylor had btter low and mid range but the Baby Taylor is $400. This guitar is under $200. IMHO. the Taylor is not $200 better. This is the better value. Also the action is better on the JD
I'm left handed and wanted a small bodied guitar that I could stash in a a small space at work to noodle during lunch break and was < $200 so as to not freak out if it got dinged up. The non-angled bridge of these makes concerting them from right to left handed very simple. Popped in a left compensated saddle and nut and was good to go. The pick guard even peels off and looks great with the full top wood exposed.
Very interested in this guitar after watching your video. I have a Taylor that was a bit pricey and I'd like to have an axe to keep open tuned for playing blues without spending an arm and a leg. This Gretsch may be the answer.
Yeah, if you are looking for a low cost guitar for experimenting with opening tunings this is a great option. It has a truss trod so you can adjust the action as needed if you choose to swap to higher gauge strings for things like slide guitar as well.
I have one love it my go to guitar for blues .More so than my high end guitars .You need more than one guitar for different styles and this is inexpensive for my needs.
Agree. I would love more expensive guitars but it's hard to justify the purchase when this plays so easy, is super comfortable and for acoustic blues it has the right sound.
I had the fortune of coming into one of these a few months ago cos a customer at my grocery store saw me playing my Ovation, and decided to gift it to me. Best action, good fret feel, it sings well. My Ovation is always in the wings but uhhh... yeah the Gretsch might be my mainstay for a bit
@@JeffStarr Oh I certainly do; a couple of the floor managers don't like me playing on my shift, even when I have a whole universe of downtime and all my customers keep asking me where my guitar or ukelele are but when they're not in, well... this cat will play 😹 I'm building my LEGEND, and this Gretsch is certainly helping. Same customer that gave it to me has come in to me playing a couple times, and I'm glad to show him that his gift is going a long way. I haven't named her properly yet but, when it comes to me, it will come... tehee 🎸 🤘🏿 rock on, colleague. Been playing about 15 years now, and I think I'm getting good 🫠😼
Im a small guy and i really regret getting a dreadnought as for the first one. More so that i play a lot more in my 30s I want a parlor guitar because it looks so comfortable to just pickup and play. Also my shoulders been getting stiff lately😂
I was looking for a cheaper, smaller guitar for the beach, camping etc and my neighbour just sold me his for £70, barely used! I love it and I'd be just as satisfied if I'd paid £170, just not as smug! 😀
There's a Harmony Stella re-ish on my local Graigslist for $125 but I'm gonna get this. This looks like a great bang around couch potato git for noodling at commercial breaks and maybe be applied to some recording applications. Plus it looks just like my first guitar a Harmony Stella.
I loved mine.. My Grandson decided he is a guitar player.. Jim Dandy is his.. he is all happy getting the guitar I always played. I'll wait to tell him the meaning of the Name!!! AHAHAHHAHAHAHHA🐖💨 I went for the Gretsch G9531 style 3 as a replacement. It's awesome too.
The build quality of this generation of Gretsch instruments is pretty high, in my opinion. I bought one of the mandolins, and I play pretty hard, with a thick mando pick and sometimes green Tortex guitar pick, and with God as my witness, that mandolin did not go out of tune for a full month.
I totally agree. I just placed an order today after I tried out one at store. Very resonated. I am buying for my 6 year old son. This price and built quality is really amazed me. I remember my first guitar 20 years ago, cuz about same price, but the feel and sound was nowhere near.
I know! I would have killed to have had a guitar this easy to play when I first started. Super cool that you are helping your kid learn and get involved in music.
I have the same guitar though it's a 9520 'Roots Collection' in Avocado green/yellow similar to the peach coloured one that Keb Mo plays, yeah they are a really nice little player.
Yes, this is a great sofa guitar. Bummer about the tuning stability on yours. I've had no issues with that. The sound is definitely small and boxy. It's great if you want to sound like you are playing an old small bodied blues guitar but it's defiantly not a big dreadnaught or Jumbo sound.
I’m planning on getting a Gretsch Electromatic soon. I played a White Falcon at the Chicago Music Exchange and fell in love, but I can’t afford one sadly. The Electromatic’s are great for the price. I never played a Gretsch acoustic though. Thanks for the review on the Jim Dandy. It sounds great!
Electromatics are excellent for the price, I agree. I've been consistently impressed by the quality of the Gretsch guitars at both high and low price points. Thanks for watching!
@@savanaviolenta they had discontinued the guitar months ago and I know this because I saw it on the website. They brought it back now (which I didn't know) but changed the body from agathis to basswood and the fretboard from rosewood to walnut. Thanks for letting me know my dear.
@@bekcunnington6826 . He does there's a video on here somewhere with him talking about when he bought it. Seems like a real gentleman as well as a phenomenal musician
@@brendanconway7317 yeh I've just seen it. He is such a musical gentleman. I've been a fan for years since I saw a special on tv when I was in my early 20s. Just a unique and pure talent.
Good review----it's amazing what you can get for a couple hundred $'s these days. The overseas (Asian) quality has dramatically improved over the last decade. I still prefer the vintage stuff tho---you can get an old stella parlor for about the same price. Course you don't get a warranty and it may need a little tweeking but for me the vintage vibe is a thing.
Yeah, it's crazy how the market for old Harmony and Silvertone "student" guitars has taken off over the last decade. Luckily there are sill plenty of good vintage guitars lurking around the $300-$500 range.
I have several old Stella’s and they can be a bear to make them play the way I want. But if you have the patience you can make em sing. I do own a recording king parlor. Another very good option.
The only problem I have with the contemporary version of these old parlour guitars, is the narrow neck width. If you want to play old style blues and finger picking styles, a 42/43 mm neck is way too narrow.
Great job bro, after playing drums since age 10, pro session drummer since '09, this will be my 1st, because I really dig, and wanna take lessons to learn to play the blues. My favorite guitarists are Charlie Patton & Son House
I started out on ukulele, but I bought one of these on a whim to try out about 3 years ago and I love it! Cool 1930s look to it too which I really like.
I had some fret sprout on mine. But, I was able to take care of it with a stew mac file. It's not a great choice for a large full resonant sound to put chords to your vocals. Put finger-style stuff works well.
Yes, there is a very specific sound for this guitar and it's important that anyone interested in buying one knows that it isn't going to sound like a Gibson Hummingbird. And, you shouldn't want it too.
which string gauge and model do you use or recommend, and what brand: Martin, hearthwood ... thanks. Sorry i’m not speak inglés, traductor is my solution for words. Excuseme, I’m lovint and adicted parlor guitars..
I love mine, it's a great guitar with a lot of character. I bought a second one as a gift for my guitar teacher and he loves it. Even if you have high end guitars you should check one out. I like really low action so I lowered the nut slots on mine but it played fine out of the box. The Gretsch roots resonator case fits it. I liked it so much I tried another Gretsch, the Aligator Resonator. It's also a really nice guitar.
Hello, I'm about to acquire one of these guitars, but I want to do the following: incorporate a Fishman system, which combines piezoelectric sensors in the bridge with a condenser microphone inside the box, 3-band equalizer and anti-docking filter, tuned one fourth down. From the most serious: B-E-A-D-F # -B. The caliber of the most severe string is the same as that of a 7-string guitar seventh. The other strings are a normal guitar game, using the five most serious and discarding the first. Just I wait awnser and ideas. Hugh's
I didnt buy one because it seemed to be too small. I'm 6'1". Is my concern valid or no? I don't know much about guitars and bought my very first one today.
It’s considered a small body guitar. That will change how it sounds though. If you are new to guitar the best guitar to buy is the one that makes you excited to practice and is also as easy to fret as possible. 😄 What did you end up purchasing?
@JeffStarr I bought a Mitchell T313CE from Guitar Center. I met a local, professional musician (plays restaurants and such full time) and he helped me pick that one out. He demonstrated his skills on various guitars. He really liked the Mitchell and I did too. He's going to teach me in a few lessons. I really want to learn the "Mr. Charlie" song by Lightning Hopkins.
@michaeljmccurdy9449 nothing wrong about learning how to play like Lightnin’ Hopkins! One of the all time greats! Congratulations on the purchase and I wish you ton of joy and fun on your musical journey.
@@JeffStarr thank you! I'm pretty excited. Also, looks like I'll be getting a Schrecter PT Van Nuys and a ukelele from a friend. The Schrecter was only played 10x so, looks like I'm really jumping into this thing! thanks for the encouragement.
I'm very in between buying this guitar, but in the limited edition Oxblood color, or the Yahama APXT2 3/4 Thin-line cutaway. I'm a first time guitar buyer, so I don't know much about guitars and whether I should get this one or an acoustic electric Yahama. Would really appreciate any advice? And also I really appreciated the video, gave me lots to consider. Thank you!
Ha ha! Yes, it's definitely a plunky tuna box sound. That's personally why I like it. The Gretsch has a vintage sound that mirrors the cheap guitars a lot of those old blues performers used. But, it plays great. It's definitely not for everyone. I have not tried the guitars you mentioned, but I did have my eye on the Martin. I haven't been happy with the Guild guitars I have played. Their neck profile always felt narrow to me. That said, I can't speak to the specific model you are asking about. Thanks for watching and sorry I couldn't be more helpful.
Hi, what would you restring it with? I've had this guitar for about 6 or 7 months now and playing it every day Feel like the sound is not as bright as it is to be so i'm looking for best match replacement strings Any advice GREATLY appreciated!!
Ordered one 2 days ago, not on sale ($169). Just looking for a much smaller short scale fingerstyle machine that hangs on the wall behind my desk so it gets played A LOT - Well my experience vs. stuffing them away in humidified cases. I think if you want to keep your guitar treasures pristine, have the mortician place them in the coffin with you, not that they'll ever make music again, but that's people.
Set up was GREAT! I did zero work to the guitar and I usually do something. In fact, I have an unboxing video from when I first got it. The guitar has come straight out of a long car ride: ua-cam.com/video/kwL7x7Gh5ho/v-deo.html
Hey do u know what strings the guitar uses? Because I want to change the strings since I’ve had it for almost a year, what’s the best strings for the Jim dandy?
Thats a massive cat lol
She loves to eat!
i think its a greyhound
an absolute unit
Lmfao!!!
I thought it was a dog until I read your comment and looked at it. it's huge!
I had one that I gave away to a friend in need, his guitar got stolen. I got one today for $80 at offer up in like new condition. I can’t be happier, since I missed that guitar a lot. I had installed a telecaster neck pick up and sounded really big at church that a lot of people loved it. I plan to do the same with this one.
I’ve had one for about 7 or 8 years now. I bought it as a travel/backyard/camping guitar. It’s nowhere near as good as my main acoustic guitar, which is a Guild M-20, or even as good as my first acoustic guitar, a Yamaha FG-700s, but I still play it as much as any other instrument. It’s nice having such a playable guitar that’s so inexpensive that you never have to worry about it getting damaged.
So I've had one for a month now playing fingerstyle. I couldn't recommend this more at the price (mine was $169 free shipping). If you want a short scale small body that still amazingly sounds out, don't overlook this. Altered tunings? Of course. Soundboard wood? I couldn't care less, it sounds good. Action? For me just fine. Jeez people, this is a hang on the wall, play constantly, go anywhere, and make music machine.
Best guitar I've ever owned. So much fun to play, really lit my passion back up.
Same here
I had one. Outside a lot so the bridge started to give. Replaced with floating bridge and tail piece. Also put good stainless keys on. Now very good outside durable guitar. Well worth the money spent on upgrades.
Joe Thomssson what bridge and tail piece? Like to see that. Sounds cool.
Had mine for 5 years. I play slide and finger style in open D. Not touched the action. All I do is change the strings. Great fun to play. Couldn’t recommend any more. 🇬🇧
Agree! I've been using mine for slide the past few months and it's really resonant and sustains very nicely. Love this little guitar.
@@JeffStarr remember watching this review before buying mine. It really helped. It’s pretty much the same dimensions as the alligator resonator by Gretsch. Which is my prized possession, but unfortunately too loud to play in my flat after reasonable hours. So the Dandy was intended as a quiet practice guitar. It’s become the guitar I play the most because it’s easy to handle and I love the feel of it. Trying to learn how to use finger picks at the moment. So I can have some volume when busking without having to buy and carry an amplifier. I have limited use of my left arm from injuries . Seriously thinking of getting a baby Taylor or the mini Martin. They are both the same easy to handle size but have a more rounded or full sound. The only time I feel the Dandy is limited is if I come out of the blues slide and finger picking style and want to strum some pop music. You seem to be able to get more of a range than I do.
What strings do you use on it?
@@Doowopsid I’m guessing you’re asking me. ? D’Addario phosphor bronze 12-53 light. I have experimented and they worked well with a 16 on the top E and an 18 on the B . I have also used the elixir coated ones. It’s mainly because I can get them a bit cheaper in a 3 pack and can’t justify buying expensive strings. I tried for two years to get the slide right. Then after buying a thick bottle neck slide from Catfish Keith when I saw him play and also finding a friend that could slide that I got the hang of it. I use plastic medicine bottles now. I don’t like the sound or can’t get the sound right when strumming normal pop songs. But for Svestapol finger picking or Travis picking or midnight special slide I don’t think you can get a better sounding guitar. I do hope it was me you were asking.
@@Oooo-bi7bi I really appreciate your detailed reply! Thank you. I’ve used the D’Addario 12-53’s and like them a lot. I’ve heard good things about the Martin Monel Retro 11’s and will be giving them a try as well. Thanks again!
I got one and installed a bone nut and saddle ,new tuners and a Deltoluxe pickup . So sweet ..I sleep with it..
Probably worth mentioning that it does have a truss rod. There was a bit of confusion on my part around the 'steel reinforced neck' sticker, a nod to the bad old days before truss rods. Thanks for the straight up review. Sounds like a nice guitar.
I picked one of these up this morning. Its a new colour they have, like a stripey tobacco brown. Looks awesome, and everything you said is true. Such a great value. Ive paid 30x more than this on guitars that arent half as fun to play.
I’m really glad to hear that the current instruments are still great all these years later! I love the new colors too.
I bought this guitar for myself. I can honestly say those 5 arguments holds up on mine too. I have the same finish and color as you as well.
GREAT!
Great review - I got my Jim Dandy last week - all you said is spot on
Love this guitar - great sound - great feel - fabulous look - I give it 11 out of 10 😁
It sold itself when I went to look for a budget Parlor shape guitar.
Have not picked up a guitar for nearly 30 years but just brought one of these bad boys. Have been looking for something to do other than being in front of a screen during my free time. Really looking forward to getting it
got this guitar a few years ago as my first, and while i don’t know much different, i love it!! :)
Great to hear! I can't believe how well modern guitars are made now. The stuff I learned on when I was a beginner was absolutely awful. :) Have fun and keep practicing!
@@JeffStarr thanks man!!
I keep coming to this guitar for over three years.Was looking for an acoustic,and with so much choice out there I couldn't settle for anything,the good ones really cost a lot and this one not only is super cheap but looks a sounds great.Mic'd it will sound even better with a bit of added reverb.
If you are looking for a punchy and old time sounding parlor guitar, it is hard to beat the Jim Dandy! Thanks for watching.
A bit of reverb does make a difference
The problem of the guitar-picker of today is to possess a real guitar, not an ectoplasmic guitar. The Jim Dandy is not a spoof, not a product of ingenuity for ingenuity's sake. It's a guitar that some people buy, get rid of, and then buy a second time because the pain of not having one becomes intolerable. It's extremely light and comfortable, and small enough to play inside the trunk of a car, a porta-potty, a dentist's chair, or a coffin. It can help you navigate when you're lost at sea. It can keep you falling from Humpty Dumpty's knee. When you're ready to drop society's bone, go fetch this instrument.
Like a beehive, the Jim Dandy guitar can make both sweet and stinging sounds. Hammer-ons and pull-offs sound better on it than any guitar I've owned, imbuing them with a twang that hearkens back to a time when magic was real and people were not. Its sinewy sonics can punch holes through both sides of any argument. It's a street guitar, but don't ask it for directions. It has no respect for consensus reality. Pluck a simple melody on it to hear notes that are not ornamental but symbolic; they're expressive and puzzling, striking and disturbing -- food for thought and also for vultures.
The Jim Dandy is greater than the sum of its parts. It's neither a toy nor a Ouija board with strings. It is not a possession. It has its own life story that runs along independently and occasionally intersects our own. I and the one I live with are currently mixed-up in a comedy about mistaken identity. It uses me to express itself, to put humanity in its place. What would a wooden puppet say if it could control the flesh-and-bone ventriloquist that's been exploiting it for years? A Jim Dandy might notice a wooden crucifix and say, "Copy-cat son!"
Are you ok
I must commend you for your beautifully worded eloquence, friend.
This was the best thing I've ever read
And just when we thought verbosity was lost art.
y tho
Just got this guitar today it’s great 👍🏻
I had one and I loved the pinless bridge - so much easier to change strings.
This guitar sounds very close to the guitars of years ago that the blues players played. It was all they probably could afford.
That's why I love it! :) Thanks for watching. Cheers.
Originally acoustic guitars were close to this size, it wasn't until they had to compete for sound in an orchestra that they were made bigger, I love this size..
@@ginodiplacido815 Same. Love the smaller guitars. There's something romantic about them.
Had no intention of ever getting a Jim Dandy guitar until I saw this video.
Great guitar!
I played one of these yesterday for the first time at the local GC and I thought it was slick. Nice looking guitar thats easy and very comfortable to play. Definitely doesnt have a typical guitar tone. To my ear it has the sound of a resonator guitar. Which is an interesting tone. Ive heard the same tone on some Fleetwood Mac songs for example.
Its a fun guitar, and among the surge of palor type guitars the 'Jim Dandy' does have its own unique style and is worthy of its name. Nice job Guild.
If I see one on sale with a great set up,
It will most likely get added into my collection.
Gretch brand
Cheapest parlor Guild offers is around $400+
Just picked up one of these for $125 new with free prime shipping. Got it so my 40 year old Guild dreadnought could have some rest and relaxation, and to have something more wield-y for couch and desk jamming and writing. It fits the bill perfectly. Great tone, very playable (especially if you came up on the "affordable" guitars of the 1980s to early 2000s. We truly live in the Golden age of affordable, hell downright cheap, instruments. My very first guitar was a mid 90s, MII Fender acoustic, can't remember the exact model, and for twice the price it had nothing on the Jim Dandy.
I just picked one up today! While shopping for accessories for my Les Paul Classic, I tried this out. It's so easy and fun to play that I just bought it. Very happy with it!
Rock on!
I just got this guitar 30 minutes ago. Im so excited!!! ;)
Any thoughts now that you have had a chance to play it more?
It has a great old school delta blues sound to it.
Indeed!
Why i love it....it’s $170 and it’s great. If your learning or just a noodler like me it’s a killer piece
I Love my GJD Guitar. Put some nice strings on it and it is great. The first guitar I ever tried to play was in 1962 A Silvertone Parlor $15.00 from Sear Catalog Black with Faux Tiger Finish, I still have 2 of these one for Slide and One for Picking. The Gretsch Jim Dandy is the best value in today's market and it has a Truss Rod. The tone and quality of the construction is awesome.
My son has one and loves it. I wanted something a little bigger but still with 12 frets to the body, so I ordered the G9521.
THIS is why Gretsch is superior on almost every level. Their affordable travel acoustic is better out of the box than so many other guitars. I’ve played this guitar and it does sound great. Gretsch makes guitars that are phenomenal all around. Although Taylor makes better sounding acoustic guitars, they are just more expensive.
Agreed. I have been really happy with the lower end Gretsch line of guitars. They play great.
I own the baby Talylor and This Guitar. The Taylor had btter low and mid range but the Baby Taylor is $400. This guitar is under $200. IMHO. the Taylor is not $200 better. This is the better value. Also the action is better on the JD
I'm left handed and wanted a small bodied guitar that I could stash in a a small space at work to noodle during lunch break and was < $200 so as to not freak out if it got dinged up. The non-angled bridge of these makes concerting them from right to left handed very simple. Popped in a left compensated saddle and nut and was good to go. The pick guard even peels off and looks great with the full top wood exposed.
You are the second person to mention how easy this guitar converts into being left-handed. So glad it's worked out so well!
I like the G pickguard
Me too! It doesn't bother me.
G for Gay tho or groupie
Nothing wrong with a big ol' "G" on the pickguard! Nice review - I'm looking for on of these little beauties myself!
G = Great Gretsch Guitar.
some ppl might think G for Gay
Was just playing this at guitar center, really thinking about getting it
Gwt the Gin Rickey instead and you'll get a more stylish guitar with a beautiful pick up. Ordered mine this week, so excited!!
Off topic, I love that cat.
Very interested in this guitar after watching your video. I have a Taylor that was a bit pricey and I'd like to have an axe to keep open tuned for playing blues without spending an arm and a leg. This Gretsch may be the answer.
Yeah, if you are looking for a low cost guitar for experimenting with opening tunings this is a great option. It has a truss trod so you can adjust the action as needed if you choose to swap to higher gauge strings for things like slide guitar as well.
Jeez, I've never seen a grey lion before.
ha!
Great review! I am going to get one! Please make sure that cat doesn't eat the children! ;)
That cat loves to eat!
😂😂😂😂
That cat has got it made. :)
Just got one! Now my go to guitar. Did lower the action with saddle sanding. Great sound.
I hear my man Lightnin Hopkins in there. Thanks for the review.
Thanks! Lightnin is one of the all time best and a big influence on my playing.
I just bought one at a mom and pop store for $100..... I put a 10 thru 50 set on it and use it for playing country blues.
Sweet! Great price!!
Thanks for the review ... I'm working w some 12 year olds who want to learn to play and this could be the ticket.
Totally! With beginners you might want to put a lighter gauge of string on the the guitar or tune down a full step to make a fretting easier.
I have one love it my go to guitar for blues .More so than my high end guitars .You need more than one guitar for different styles and this is inexpensive for my needs.
Agree. I would love more expensive guitars but it's hard to justify the purchase when this plays so easy, is super comfortable and for acoustic blues it has the right sound.
just ordered one, paid the same as u did even tho its 2022 lol love the size and the look of it, looks vintage.
cute cat btw
I had the fortune of coming into one of these a few months ago cos a customer at my grocery store saw me playing my Ovation, and decided to gift it to me. Best action, good fret feel, it sings well. My Ovation is always in the wings but uhhh... yeah the Gretsch might be my mainstay for a bit
I find mine to be surprisingly resonant. Also, you must have the coolest customers ever. Free guitars!! Love it. 👍
@@JeffStarr Oh I certainly do; a couple of the floor managers don't like me playing on my shift, even when I have a whole universe of downtime and all my customers keep asking me where my guitar or ukelele are but when they're not in, well... this cat will play 😹 I'm building my LEGEND, and this Gretsch is certainly helping. Same customer that gave it to me has come in to me playing a couple times, and I'm glad to show him that his gift is going a long way. I haven't named her properly yet but, when it comes to me, it will come... tehee 🎸 🤘🏿 rock on, colleague. Been playing about 15 years now, and I think I'm getting good 🫠😼
Im a small guy and i really regret getting a dreadnought as for the first one.
More so that i play a lot more in my 30s
I want a parlor guitar because it looks so comfortable to just pickup and play.
Also my shoulders been getting stiff lately😂
I was looking for a cheaper, smaller guitar for the beach, camping etc and my neighbour just sold me his for £70, barely used! I love it and I'd be just as satisfied if I'd paid £170, just not as smug! 😀
There's a Harmony Stella re-ish on my local Graigslist for $125 but I'm gonna get this. This looks like a great bang around couch potato git for noodling at commercial breaks and maybe be applied to some recording applications. Plus it looks just like my first guitar a Harmony Stella.
Just put a bone nut ,saddle and decent machine heads on mine and installed a p90, its a blues beast
I loved mine.. My Grandson decided he is a guitar player.. Jim Dandy is his.. he is all happy getting the guitar I always played.
I'll wait to tell him the meaning of the Name!!! AHAHAHHAHAHAHHA🐖💨
I went for the Gretsch G9531 style 3
as a replacement.
It's awesome too.
The build quality of this generation of Gretsch instruments is pretty high, in my opinion. I bought one of the mandolins, and I play pretty hard, with a thick mando pick and sometimes green Tortex guitar pick, and with God as my witness, that mandolin did not go out of tune for a full month.
Ha! Love it! I agree that this generation of Gretsch instruments are really well made and a great value for the money.
I have a Gretsch ukulele and that too is great.
I have this guitar i’m lovint. Very easy and low action, and good sound,is one of my travel guitar. Cooloock...
I got mine today very beautiful instrument
Thanks for the beautiful video man
Glad you like it!
I totally agree. I just placed an order today after I tried out one at store. Very resonated. I am buying for my 6 year old son. This price and built quality is really amazed me. I remember my first guitar 20 years ago, cuz about same price, but the feel and sound was nowhere near.
I know! I would have killed to have had a guitar this easy to play when I first started. Super cool that you are helping your kid learn and get involved in music.
Someday I’ll hit the lottery and get the Collings parlor with the slotted headstock. Until then, I’m Jim Dandy.
Talked me into it.
I thought that was a dog back there then realized it’s a 40 pound cat.
I have the same guitar though it's a 9520 'Roots Collection' in Avocado green/yellow similar to the peach coloured one that Keb Mo plays, yeah they are a really nice little player.
Should you recommend this as a starter guitar to someone who doesn’t know how to play the guitar and is just learning ?
I have one - does not stay in tune, sounds thin and cheap, but it's a great sofa guitar especially for the low price.
Yes, this is a great sofa guitar. Bummer about the tuning stability on yours. I've had no issues with that. The sound is definitely small and boxy. It's great if you want to sound like you are playing an old small bodied blues guitar but it's defiantly not a big dreadnaught or Jumbo sound.
I’m planning on getting a Gretsch Electromatic soon. I played a White Falcon at the Chicago Music Exchange and fell in love, but I can’t afford one sadly. The Electromatic’s are great for the price. I never played a Gretsch acoustic though. Thanks for the review on the Jim Dandy. It sounds great!
Electromatics are excellent for the price, I agree. I've been consistently impressed by the quality of the Gretsch guitars at both high and low price points. Thanks for watching!
I got one a few weeks ago , it’s ok ,
Have one and it`s great for that price.
It sure is!
So glad I got mine before they got discontinued.
@@JeffStarr pretty sure it was showcased at this year's NAMM?
They're still in production my dear
@@savanaviolenta they had discontinued the guitar months ago and I know this because I saw it on the website. They brought it back now (which I didn't know) but changed the body from agathis to basswood and the fretboard from rosewood to walnut. Thanks for letting me know my dear.
Jim Dandy to the rescue. ✌
What's wrong with the "G"? It's a Gretsch... A brand with history. That's a good thing. It doesn't say "First Act" on it real huge. I'm buying one.
I agree! I don't know why people complain about the G. I like it!
Google
I like the guitar, but the way that g looks does not match the aesthetic if the guitar, furthermore there is already a Gretsch logo on the top
Even Eric Bibb owns one of these which speaks volumes
Does he? Yes, that does. Eric Bibb is fantastic.
@@bekcunnington6826 . He does there's a video on here somewhere with him talking about when he bought it. Seems like a real gentleman as well as a phenomenal musician
@@brendanconway7317 yeh I've just seen it. He is such a musical gentleman. I've been a fan for years since I saw a special on tv when I was in my early 20s. Just a unique and pure talent.
Good review----it's amazing what you can get for a couple hundred $'s these days. The overseas (Asian) quality has dramatically improved over the last decade. I still prefer the vintage stuff tho---you can get an old stella parlor for about the same price. Course you don't get a warranty and it may need a little tweeking but for me the vintage vibe is a thing.
Yeah, it's crazy how the market for old Harmony and Silvertone "student" guitars has taken off over the last decade. Luckily there are sill plenty of good vintage guitars lurking around the $300-$500 range.
I have several old Stella’s and they can be a bear to make them play the way I want. But if you have the patience you can make em sing. I do own a recording king parlor. Another very good option.
The only problem I have with the contemporary version of these old parlour guitars, is the narrow neck width. If you want to play old style blues and finger picking styles, a 42/43 mm neck is way too narrow.
i just got this guitar 3 days ago and i love it!
Wow, that is very 1930's! I've got to get one! Haven't had a NGD in like 7 years!
Definitely check it out! I have some other vids on my channel where I play it more so feel free to browse those for more sound samples.
Great job bro, after playing drums since age 10, pro session drummer since '09, this will be my 1st, because I really dig, and wanna take lessons to learn to play the blues. My favorite guitarists are Charlie Patton & Son House
Son House is one of my all time favorite musicians. What a powerhouse!
It's not readily available anymore. The only Jim dandy factory at Gretsch burned down. They're considered rare now. I've got the same one
I started out on ukulele, but I bought one of these on a whim to try out about 3 years ago and I love it! Cool 1930s look to it too which I really like.
Gretsch makes great guitars...
I agree! I have been consistently happy with the Gretsch guitars I have played.
Thanks for this review. Buying one.
Great! I hope you love it as much as I do.
i want it
I had some fret sprout on mine. But, I was able to take care of it with a stew mac file. It's not a great choice for a large full resonant sound to put chords to your vocals. Put finger-style stuff works well.
Yes, there is a very specific sound for this guitar and it's important that anyone interested in buying one knows that it isn't going to sound like a Gibson Hummingbird. And, you shouldn't want it too.
Thanks for the review, do you think is a good guitar for begginers? Thanks in advance
Yes, although if someone is truly a beginner there may be some low cost electric guitars that are easier to play and fret the strings.
which string gauge and model do you use or recommend, and what brand: Martin, hearthwood ... thanks. Sorry i’m not speak inglés, traductor is my solution for words. Excuseme, I’m lovint and adicted parlor guitars..
This is a great, and affordable, guitar.
Indeed. I think they have discontinued this color though. I hope they don’t stop making this model as it’s great.
Sounds good excellent presentation but you need to stop feeling that cub bear
ha!
Man tour cat is massive what are you feeding him , he's cool
She was a pretty awesome cat. Sadly she passed away earlier this year.
Sorry to hear about your cat 🐈
Is this only for playing blues? Would it be a good beginner guitar? I love the look and size of it based on what I've seen!
Hi! Thinking of buying this model and wonder about the strap-button... Is it glued to the body or attached with a screw?
Wow. Great Playing!
Thanks! It's a great guitar for acoustic blues.
I love mine, it's a great guitar with a lot of character. I bought a second one as a gift for my guitar teacher and he loves it. Even if you have high end guitars you should check one out. I like really low action so I lowered the nut slots on mine but it played fine out of the box. The Gretsch roots resonator case fits it.
I liked it so much I tried another Gretsch, the Aligator Resonator. It's also a really nice guitar.
I have also played a few of the Gretsch resonators and I agree that they were really nice. Definitely on my list for a possible future purchase.
Great review, thanks. Does this have a bolt on neck, or glued?
Glued.
@@JeffStarr thank you!
Hello, I'm about to acquire one of these guitars, but I want to do the following: incorporate a Fishman system, which combines piezoelectric sensors in the bridge with a condenser microphone inside the box, 3-band equalizer and anti-docking filter, tuned one fourth down. From the most serious: B-E-A-D-F # -B. The caliber of the most severe string is the same as that of a 7-string guitar seventh. The other strings are a normal guitar game, using the five most serious and discarding the first.
Just I wait awnser and ideas.
Hugh's
I didnt buy one because it seemed to be too small. I'm 6'1". Is my concern valid or no? I don't know much about guitars and bought my very first one today.
It’s considered a small body guitar. That will change how it sounds though. If you are new to guitar the best guitar to buy is the one that makes you excited to practice and is also as easy to fret as possible. 😄 What did you end up purchasing?
@JeffStarr I bought a Mitchell T313CE from Guitar Center. I met a local, professional musician (plays restaurants and such full time) and he helped me pick that one out. He demonstrated his skills on various guitars. He really liked the Mitchell and I did too. He's going to teach me in a few lessons. I really want to learn the "Mr. Charlie" song by Lightning Hopkins.
@michaeljmccurdy9449 nothing wrong about learning how to play like Lightnin’ Hopkins! One of the all time greats! Congratulations on the purchase and I wish you ton of joy and fun on your musical journey.
@@JeffStarr thank you! I'm pretty excited. Also, looks like I'll be getting a Schrecter PT Van Nuys and a ukelele from a friend. The Schrecter was only played 10x so, looks like I'm really jumping into this thing! thanks for the encouragement.
I'm very in between buying this guitar, but in the limited edition Oxblood color, or the Yahama APXT2 3/4 Thin-line cutaway. I'm a first time guitar buyer, so I don't know much about guitars and whether I should get this one or an acoustic electric Yahama. Would really appreciate any advice? And also I really appreciated the video, gave me lots to consider. Thank you!
I like electric guitars as beginner guitars for all sorts of reasons, but generally they are easier to play and you can practice silently too.
both good choices......just pick one and go.....and don't look back!....
did you ever tried the Martin lx1, Guild Junior Jumbo or Sigma tm? The Gretsch sounds like tuna box.
Ha ha! Yes, it's definitely a plunky tuna box sound. That's personally why I like it. The Gretsch has a vintage sound that mirrors the cheap guitars a lot of those old blues performers used. But, it plays great. It's definitely not for everyone. I have not tried the guitars you mentioned, but I did have my eye on the Martin. I haven't been happy with the Guild guitars I have played. Their neck profile always felt narrow to me. That said, I can't speak to the specific model you are asking about. Thanks for watching and sorry I couldn't be more helpful.
Hi, what would you restring it with?
I've had this guitar for about 6 or 7 months now and playing it every day
Feel like the sound is not as bright as it is to be so i'm looking for best match replacement strings
Any advice GREATLY appreciated!!
I really like the D'Addario® EJ16 Phosphor Bronze, Light (.012-.053 Gauges) Here is an Amazon Affiliate link: amzn.to/2AZVwTt
I can't decide should I buy an Epiphone aj 220 or gretsch jim dandy
I vote for the Jim Dandy.
wish it wasnt small id get one of this
Ordered one 2 days ago, not on sale ($169). Just looking for a much smaller short scale fingerstyle machine that hangs on the wall behind my desk so it gets played A LOT - Well my experience vs. stuffing them away in humidified cases. I think if you want to keep your guitar treasures pristine, have the mortician place them in the coffin with you, not that they'll ever make music again, but that's people.
I agree. I play mine non-stop because it's next to my desk and so easy to pick up and grab.
What is the length? What kind of case should I get should I get one?
Do you think it can handle Ernie ball 12s? At e standard
how was the setup on it right out of the box? did you have to do a lot of adjusting on the neck or action?
Set up was GREAT! I did zero work to the guitar and I usually do something. In fact, I have an unboxing video from when I first got it. The guitar has come straight out of a long car ride: ua-cam.com/video/kwL7x7Gh5ho/v-deo.html
My bridge was super high I just sanded it down
Mine came 80% right. I just sanded my bridge down a bit. Now its perfect.
What kínd of strings use this guitar?
Hey do u know what strings the guitar uses? Because I want to change the strings since I’ve had it for almost a year, what’s the best strings for the Jim dandy?
The Jim Dandy ships with D'Addario® EJ16 Phosphor Bronze, Light (.012-.053 Gauges) strings.
notbadfilms THANK YOU SO MUCH MAN, YOU EARNED URSELF A LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE
Glad I could help!