I am a proud owner of Hush1 and I have to admit I do check all reviews on this guitar every now and then. BUT never have I ever seen such a justified and apt review yet beautifully articulated without an ounce of derailing from the topic. THIS HOW YOU DO REVIEWS I LOVE IT.
First, I would like to appreciate your speech pacing. I’m glad that you talked in a pace where the viewer could actually follow you but not in a boring way. Second, your straightforward but thorough review where you really showed even the bag and how the tuner works. I can’t wait till I get my hands with this little beauty. Thank you for the awesome review!
I watch tons of reviews on YT on many products. I have read bad reviews of this guitar as well. I absolutely like the look of the guitar. I needed some good reviews and this one is one of them and sounded authentic. Very cleanly reviewed. Thank you.
Thank you . . I'm glad it was helpful! If you're interested they've now made an electric version and the way the rests are held on (I think) is an improvement, here's the link to the review; ua-cam.com/video/UVME-fJz4Oo/v-deo.html
Hey, man, thanks for the review. I just got one of these as a birthday present about three weeks ago and I barely put it down during waking hours. It's a great little guitar, and the silent feature is such that I can practice in my room and not bother a soul. I can't wait to travel with it this year. It does sound great and man is it fun to play with.
Ive had my Hush-1 for a week now and can say I think it's a good thing. The setup out of the box was good enough and required no adjustments just a quick tune up and it was ready to roll. Everything fit together properly and it does exactly what it says, works well through the headphones considering it's pricepoint and through a small amp sounds good. Will test it on sons big amp in 2 weeks. I bought this for silent practice only and so I could take it away with me on holidays. Thanks guys for the good product. Cheers
Donner truly has a winner here. I ordered one two days ago and it is arriving tomorrow. All reviews I've seen were positive except a few amateurish sites where they didn't understand the electronics or didn't know the tool was for the tuners, thinking ot was for the side pieces only. Thank you for the best review of the bunch. I am looking forward to receiving mine soon!
Thanks for the no nonsense review, ive just ordered one of these at well less than a 3rd of the cost of a Yamaha SG thanks to xmas discounts. I'm used to a 1 3/4 nut but i'll make do with this is it' isn't much smaller and the main reason is really need a silent strummer for home practice.
Last night I ordered the Donner Hush 1 acoustic guitar. Your thorough review was very helpful. I love backpacking and fishing by the sea here in Japan, and love playing classic pop and worship music as I enjoy God’s creation . This compact guitar, along with my Blackstar Fly mini acoustic amp should make this easier than toting my Yamaha APX along. I also appreciate you asking that people not use course language in the comments section. Thank you very much, and have a very happy new year !
Sad to know that, anyway your method still the best and complete for a low price, just thanks for that. The last video you've made about the guitar unfortunately they can't deliver to my country. Gareth I wish you a sunny and fun summer. Have a nice day.
@@guitar-academy sure you have, as so many countries will suffocate because of climate change why not UK aswell. May ask a question did you have tested Elixir strings before?
@@badbotchdown9845 Yes, I use Elixir all the time. They are my favourite stings both for electric and acoustic. I try other stings from time to time but always seem to end up back on Elixirs. 😊😊
Thank you so so so much for showing me how to tune this guitar because I had no idea where to put the tuner because there’s no head stick on the guitar!
Florida . . nice 😊 Thank you. I've had to do some other work to make some money, the channel doesn't support itself yet, but I'm sure it will do one day. 😃
I'm a lefty and in the absence of a left handed version, I bought one of these. It was really easy to convert to lefty. I removed the strings and both the nut and bridge just lifted out so I could flip them and restring in reverse. I used D'Addario Phosphor Bronze 12-53, only because the included strings were cut too short to string in reverse which is a shame as I think those pre-fitted strings were of high enough quality to use. Sure the controls, socket and string trees are in the wrong places, but none of these impeded usage and the larger stand/wing/side is actually better served as a leg rest than the smaller appendage. I added a secondary strap button on the tail end because the integrated socket strap button wasn't really ideally placed for a lefty.
That perspective about converting to left hand was awesome and I strongly agree with the larger stand as a leg rest the shorter one gets all lose and shaky with use so I use a strap made out of a leather waist belt as it is right thickness for the 6.5mm jack strap thingy to hold the strap and guitar snug and tight. it looks cool too as a tan leather compliments the mahogany finish. Also the included strap chipped paint from the aluminum frames as they have a metal hook for the bag so I took the default strap off and put a waist belt by putting some holes.
@@dawnofza1443 The only place I've seen a lefty version advertised was on a fake ad on Facebook. They were allegedly selling them for about £25, so definitely just a phishing ad.
I picked one up and it is amazing. This will likely be my main practice guitar as a beginner level player. I've had a guitar for a while and enjoy playing, but I can't practice how I want to practice due to the noise. These are running for dirt cheap, like new condition, on ebay if you are willing to go "open box".
Thank you very kindly for doing this. I ordered the black maple one and should be receiving it soon. Donner's US distributor told me the guitar wood should not have any affect on the tone or weight of the guitar. I am puzzled over the obvious omission of about two more frets at the top of the neck (a la Yamaha's) They could have easily put in two more frets with excellent access at the body/neck joint. So here's my question: Would it be possible to install two more frets after the build? I really feel Donner missed a wonderful opportunity here, especially since there new Hush-X has 22 frets. The Hush-X is NOT an acoustic travel guitar but completely electric with pickups and nickel strings. There is no Piezo pickup, so that is not a solution. Anyway, for now I'll have to live with less frets for solo's. Pat Metheny did it and so did Wes so I'm in good company.
Thank you . . . Yes, I thought that. They've provided a full length fretboard that would take at least 2 more frets. Regarding fitting them yourself or with a luthier, honestly 'I don't know' if the fretboard was rose wood or some other solid wood I would have said yes, but I don't know anything about 'HPL or high pressure laminate' . . sorry 😊😃
I forgot to mention the strings, but they are good. They feel like they anti rust coated and are very nice. After I've reviewed a guitar I usually change the strings to ones I like, but this time I've left the string on. I'll do a follow video when I've had it for a while, and I'll mention your question 😊😃
It would be a waste of time me telling you that now because I have changed the strings, adjusted the neck relief and adjusted the action to the perfect height for me, but even when I got it straight out of the box the action was very good. 😊
I am wondering if it is easy to play fingerpicking with its' narrow neck. What is the size at the nut? between 1st string and 6th at the bridge? What is general playability for finger-style in comparison with wider nut guitars? Thanks (BTW your review is very detailed and thanks for excellent video quality, so many details!)
The nut width is a pretty standard 43mm and the saddle 64mm with 51mm 'E' to 'E' at the bridge (a Strat is 53mm). We have different taste as your and my previous comments demonstrate, but I like the feel for fingerstyle and even used it for work for about a month (recording in the studio between 4 and 9 hours a day) and I really liked to play it and I found it was easy to get a professionally acceptable sound out of it going through amp modelling gear. My honest criticisms after this time are, it's a pain when you have to use a tool to tune it (not a problem with the XYZ 🤔) and the end of the guitar needs to have some protection because you inevitable end up standing the guitar up on it's end and eventually it will ware. I hope this helps 😊
@@guitar-academy - I am beginner; as all beginners, I assume that wider spacing will help with finger-pick and will help to avoid buzz. For example, acoustic Martin OO12-28 Parlour guitar has about 46mm (1 13/16") width at the nut, and 57.2mm (2 1/4") width between E and E at the bridge. My "preference" mostly based on reading forum posts, that's why I asked you... thanks for sharing. My fingers are not thick, just normal. But I am trying to learn without nails, so I thought maybe wider spacing will help. Anyway, I just ordered Donner, I need silent (acoustic) guitar in any case, and this one seems to be the best (except Godin!)
@@TPITEOTGIt's difficult as a beginner because you will not find out your preference from any forum, you need to get your hands on a couple of guitars and try them (maybe in a shop). I've been teaching for over 30 years and I've seen every type of guitarist and no 2 are the same. The gaps between the strings won't make a lot of difference to your ability to play fingerstyle, but it makes a massive difference to your ability to play chords. So, for example if you have fat fingers wide string gaps are an advantage, but if you have narrow fingertips or small fingers wide string spacing might make some chords nearly impossible. Some chords, for example the 'F' half barre have 2 strings being played with one finger so you might need closer strings to play chords like this. Even if you haven't got a guitar yet watch this video and hopefully you'll see what I mean ua-cam.com/video/YID9-iltoak/v-deo.html I hope this helps 😊😊
@@guitar-academy maybe I misunderstood you: are you saying playing chords is not related to fingerstyle? Travis picking doesn’t need proper chord technique? I bought Donner and playing C chord almost impossible: low E string is hitting my index finger making buzz. And I file my nail heavily to avoid this, and my fingers are very thin. A lot of forums mention golden sizing 44.5mm or 46mm for fingerstyle; Martin makes 46mm. Donner is, if I remember correctly, 42mm. Anyway, I don’t care about C chord since all the other technique is Ok. However, there is also plucking-picking hand, and if spacing at the bridge is narrow then it is difficult unless you play with nails… with artificial nails.
@@TPITEOTGStop reading forums and get a guitar and start practising . . To say 'I don't care about C chord' is the dumbest thing I've ever heard, are you only planning on learning one tune or something. Travis picking is just fingerstyle and in fact you use more full chords in Travis style than any other style of fingerpicking because you use multiple pinches. I've taught fingerstyle guitar to numerous guitarist with no nail on telecasters, Ibanez and other really narrow necked guitars and only two people in 30 years had a problem, one was a railway engineer and the other a professional mountain climber so they both had really huge fingers. Start learning . . here's my fingerstyle courses; Book one ua-cam.com/play/PLIQJcXCYbgO2q9hDUBT0E5z1JZDk3bowI.html Book two ua-cam.com/play/PLIQJcXCYbgO1uyExG1qS2puZ6aC11cA-M.html
Many thanks for a Brilliant review, the Main reason i wanted to buy this Guitar was for to take on Holiday with me as i don't want to fall back on my practice, and a compact Guitar i could carry about with me ,did you say Sir that you can't take it as hand Luggage? , maybe i can put it in my suitcase, would love to hear your advice, Many thanks Ian
For flights out of UK it's too long for hand luggage but the case is reinforced and is very protective. Is the case protective enough? I honestly don't know because sometimes the luggage handlers just don't seem to care. it might fit in your case diagonally, it's 85.1cm long. 🤔
Yesterday my guitare arrived. I really like it and you're review was pretty accurate. 👌 I've got one question: It seams that the oil of my fingers kinda shine on yhe fingerboard. Should i oil the board?
When you get a new guitar it's not uncommon for the fretboard to be dry or even have a layer of factory dust on it . Yes, I would treat it with a light coat of olmand/lemon, oil or you can buy 'fretboard conditioner' if you want something designed for the job. 😊😀
It really feels different to the Yamaha. The metal frame is smaller but heavier, but the neck on the Donner is slightly more chunky. I prefer the electrics in the Donner, because I prefer to process the sound outside the guitar using a modeller of VST. When you think of the difference in price there's not a lot in it. Sorry I can't be more conclusive 🤔😊
Great review on the Donner HUSH-1. I got one in September and I really like it, only thing is that the action at the 12th fret is very high. Is there a way to lower that. I'm not experienced with adjusting the truss rod and I don't want to damage the guitar, but if that's what I need to do, could you please give me some advice on how to do it? Thanks in advance and thanks for this great video, very informative. Love your playing as well.
I haven't made a video for this specific guitar because mine was fine on delivery, but this video explains the process clearly using another guitar. ua-cam.com/video/QRSAQocR_rY/v-deo.htmlsi=yVIVfBCHeUhTmLdS
Thank you so much, I was able to adjust the truss rod perfectly with the video link you provided. It was very bowed and now it's perfect. I really appreciate your help, thanks again. And, happy holidays to you as well. @@guitar-academy
For all the engineering which went into this guitar, there really should be snap-in buttons to facilitate easy placement and removal of the metal top and bottom rests.
Yes, agreed. They've now made a new one, the donner hush-x. The new one is an electric version that has a lot of changes, but they sold out straight away and I haven't been able to get one to review. 🤔
I've found it really solid on the tuning, so I don't have to retune very often at all. This is just as well really because my only criticism would be that the tuners are awkward 😀😁
No knowing you I can't answer this question with confidence but the neck is a fairly narrow one but you can get more narrow necks. It at all possible, visit some music/guitar shops and test a few guitars first. 😊
@@guitar-academy thanks for your reply. Both the headphone output and connection to the amp are not working. I've requested a replacement but their reviews for customer service are just awful!
That sound awful anyway. It sounds like the preamp is completely dead. I assume you've tried a new battery and making sure it's in correctly ? If so, I hope they sort it out for you quickly. 🤔 @@ecojot
@@guitar-academy they sent a working replacement so all is good. The action is high though - even after adjusting the truss rod. Should I remove the bridge and sand it down?
If you feel confident enough to remove the saddle (the white bit) and sand it then that would lower the action. It isn't hard to do and I've done a video on this, but not on a Donner. Here's the link ua-cam.com/video/QRSAQocR_rY/v-deo.html@@ecojot
Interesting. Kinda like the Mogabi in reduced form (less options). How is the string noise on recorded output? I have found that these "digital" guitars seem to pick up a lot of noise string noise on slides or hand movements. Nice Demo, Sir, Thank You.
Thank you very much. The strings feel anti-rust coated and yes, you could hear string noise. The string noise came from the picking hand though because of the coating and my sitting position. Once the coating wore off a bit where I was picking, and once I got a good sitting position if sounds really nice. I'll do a follow up video once I've had it for a while. 😊😃 (nice to hear from you)
No I guess you don't need the top . . I like the top one in place because I prefer the feel and the extra weight, but that's just my taste. It definitely won't effect the sound anyway 😊😃
so a 'large' checked luggage 67 x 47 cm would just fit it in diagonally. I note that many of the competing guitars of this type place the tuners on the underside and take the strings around rollers at the tail end. @@guitar-academy
They are brass wound acoustic strings. Electric strings are steel because electric guitars rely on magnetism, but the piezo pickup in this guitar doesn't rely on magnetism so the strings you use is up to you. I hope this helps 😊
@@andreasp.2619 I guess the two things can be true because the top 3 strings (the unwound ones) are nickel plated. Most string manufacturers would call them brass wound though after the bottom 3 strings. 🤔
EXELENTE REWIE. ESTOY CON LA INTENCION DE COMPRAR UNA GUITARRA DE VIAJE. PERO ESTOY VIENDO CUAL LO COMPRO YA QUE HAY ESTA DONNER QUE ME PARECE QUE ES BUENA. PERO HAY OTRA GUITARRA DE VIAJE MARCA MARCA SEGIELA QUE TIENE UN AMPLIFICADOR DE SONIDO QUE SE VE QUE ES MAS COMPLETO. PERO NO HE VISTO UN REWIE DE LA SEGIELA. ME GUSTARIA SABER SI HAY ALGUN REWIE DE LA GUITARRA SEGIELA. LA SEGIELA LO VENDEN A TRAVEZ DE ALIEXPRESS.
I think it I'll try some Elixir 10-47 because I like these. But I thought during the tests that it was a little lacking in bass, so I might try some cheaper RotoSound JK9's because they're 09-48, so lighter on the top but heavier on the bass. But that's just my taste, you might like something different. 😊😃
@@guitar-academy No worries, that was one of my concerns when it comes to deciding whether to buy this guitar. Since the guitar has a custom tuning head, it might be hard to find a replacement for it in the long term.
@@sckfyll agreed . . I snapped a tuner on a Yamaha SL200N and it was a nightmare trying to find them. I was really, really lucky in that a second hand set came up on eBay. 😊😊
Good question . . but hard to answer. I'm going to make a video on this. The neck on the Donner is really nice but it feels a lot smaller. The Yamaha feels more expensive because the tuners are better and the wooden rests are nice. The Donner (to me) sounds as good as, or even better than the Yamaha. The Donner is on offer on Amazon at the moment and is less than half the price of the Yamaha. I think they are close enough that some people will prefer the Yamaha and some the Donner 🤔
Comparing to competitor’s guitar from XYZ which costs twice less and uses absolutely the same basic cheapest “imported” sound pickup *without reverb* and constantly draining battery, Donner doesn’t use “zero fret” and, unplugged, sounds loud… but build quality, “shininess” (presentation), tuners, warranty give it 10x better value than competitors. I still think it is overpriced.
Really sorry but I disagree with your conclusion between the Donner and the XYZ though I do respect your choice. But for me . . . The donner is constructed very neatly so the machine-heads are set back into the body and the neck is a very well made, graded asymmetrical shape. The XYZ feels like it wasn't designed, it was just made without consideration. The machine-heads are the standard mini type that are mounted on a piece of wood that's then been screwed on the back of the body so it digs in you and destroys any resonance the body might have. The neck is a standard 'D' shape which is uniform all the way up and there's no top bar to make if feel more like a real guitar. The Donner is slightly longer which isn't good but both guitars are too long to go in hand luggage anyway, which is limited to 55 cm. Very importantly for a travel guitar the Donner case is way better than the XYZ because the donner case has reinforcing between the padding. Regarding the batteries going flat in all these guitars and all Fishman preamps, just buy a 'usb rechargeable pp3' . . . job done.
@@guitar-academy - thank you; I have one guitar with 9V battery and it doesn't drain, I think manufacturer (Donner) mentions battery is enough for 1 month. Which is more than enough for me. Yes, after watching more videos and comparing... fretwork at Donner seems 10x better, and tuning pegs, and neck design, and even hook (XYZ doesn't have hook); everything looks like Lexus GX vs. Honda Civic. "The neck is a standard 'D' shape" - I think they have some innovative "asymmetrical" design with neck. Anyway, I just ordered directly from Donner, price is lower than Amazon, and no taxes ;)
@@guitar-academy - ohhhhh..... just received it, direct order from Donner Canada, and it came with 0.5mm-1mm deep slots filed on top of compensated saddle!!! They even made it per-string-thickness, "professionally" (in quotes)... I am really confused, googling now "compensated slotted saddles". Blunder? [UPDATE] 1) slotted saddle enforced by construction (tuning pegs close to saddle); to enforce exact spacing between strings. 2) A little harder to play clean C chord (35mm from 1st to 6th strings at the nut); 1st and 3rd strings are buzzing hitting my 1st and 2nd fingers. And I have thin fingers. I can play clean C chord on my another guitar with 37mm from 1st string to 6th. Maybe I can file nut a little, to make it perfect "zero-fret" like; and maybe I need to try with different strings (and file may nails, and of course improve my skills!) 3) out of the box, action is good; I am beginner; I can do chromatic exercise from 1st to 6th strings at first frets without feeling that action is high. Just normal; 6th bass string may even buzz if plucked under slight angle. 4) With strap, I don't even need bottom metal part, I hold it "classic" style and I learn fingerpicking. But top part is not strong, bending under weight of my picking hand; 1 screw only, not enough. Good travel guitar + good for quiet practicing + portable. [UPDATE 2] I measured nut height, strings are above 0.024" at 1st fret when I press 4th fret. Too high, should be less than 0.010"; or even "zero-fret"-like. Need to file nut. It will be easier to play (including "clean" C chord).
You can put them on if you use nylon string with ball ends, but you might have problems with the intonation (internal tuning). I think I'll have to make a video where I try it. 🤔
Is there a floor stand that works with the HUSH-I?
I don't know of one but I'll bin your comment in case someone else does . .
I am a proud owner of Hush1 and I have to admit I do check all reviews on this guitar every now and then.
BUT never have I ever seen such a justified and apt review yet
beautifully articulated without an ounce of derailing from the topic.
THIS HOW YOU DO REVIEWS I LOVE IT.
wow . . thank you very much, that is appreciated. 😊😃
First, I would like to appreciate your speech pacing. I’m glad that you talked in a pace where the viewer could actually follow you but not in a boring way. Second, your straightforward but thorough review where you really showed even the bag and how the tuner works. I can’t wait till I get my hands with this little beauty. Thank you for the awesome review!
Thank you very much . . that's really nice of you 😊😀
I watch tons of reviews on YT on many products. I have read bad reviews of this guitar as well. I absolutely like the look of the guitar. I needed some good reviews and this one is one of them and sounded authentic. Very cleanly reviewed. Thank you.
Thank you . . I'm glad it was helpful!
If you're interested they've now made an electric version and the way the rests are held on (I think) is an improvement, here's the link to the review; ua-cam.com/video/UVME-fJz4Oo/v-deo.html
Hey, man, thanks for the review. I just got one of these as a birthday present about three weeks ago and I barely put it down during waking hours. It's a great little guitar, and the silent feature is such that I can practice in my room and not bother a soul. I can't wait to travel with it this year. It does sound great and man is it fun to play with.
No problem 👍 me too, I've been using it ever since doing the review. It's strangely addictive . . 😊😃👍
Is it quiet enough to play at night ? Like an unplugged electric guitar
@@JSession Yes, I can play it anytime of day or night and it doesn't bother roommates on either side of me
Ive had my Hush-1 for a week now and can say I think it's a good thing.
The setup out of the box was good enough and required no adjustments just a quick tune up and it was ready to roll. Everything fit together properly and it does exactly what it says, works well through the headphones considering it's pricepoint and through a small amp sounds good. Will test it on sons big amp in 2 weeks.
I bought this for silent practice only and so I could take it away with me on holidays.
Thanks guys for the good product.
Cheers
Thanks for watching and commenting 😊😀
Thanks for this review. I've heard other sound tests that put me off of this instrument. You've changed my mind.
Glad I could help! I try to be as honest as possible and I like the sound of this guitar 😊
Thank you. Love the review. Ordered mine , can’t wait to receive it🎸
Thank you . . . I hope you enjoy it! 😊😃
Great review - just ordered mine! BTW: FANTASTIC photography, especially on the machine heads - well done!
Thank you very much! 😊😀
I just received mine and your review helped me so much to know that guitar! Thank you! I'm super happy to have it, i'll be able to travel and play
Thank you very much.😊 I'm really happy to hear the video has been useful 😀
Donner truly has a winner here. I ordered one two days ago and it is arriving tomorrow. All reviews I've seen were positive except a few amateurish sites where they didn't understand the electronics or didn't know the tool was for the tuners, thinking ot was for the side pieces only. Thank you for the best review of the bunch. I am looking forward to receiving mine soon!
Thank you very much . . I hope you enjoy yours as much as I enjoy mine 😊😃
Excellent review👌 . thank you👋👋👋 . good to see you back 👍👍
Thank you . . I'm glad to be back 😊😃
I'm planing to buy this guitar and this video was awesome for me to understand how good this guitar is, thanks!
And for a great price I think. I'm currently on a trip right now and I miss my guitar. Gonna buy one as soon as I get home.
Thank you 😊😀
a great guitar for travellers too 😊😀
Great review. Also worth noting that the bag strap also doubles as a strap for the guitar itself. Really well though out designs throughout.
Thank you very much . . yes the dual purpose strap is a great design feature 😊😃
Thanks for the no nonsense review, ive just ordered one of these at well less than a 3rd of the cost of a Yamaha SG thanks to xmas discounts. I'm used to a 1 3/4 nut but i'll make do with this is it' isn't much smaller and the main reason is really need a silent strummer for home practice.
Thank you very much. I really hope you're happy with it. You're a shrewd. you bought it at the right time 😊😀
Last night I ordered the Donner Hush 1 acoustic guitar. Your thorough review was very helpful. I love backpacking and fishing by the sea here in Japan, and love playing classic pop and worship music as I enjoy God’s creation . This compact guitar, along with my Blackstar Fly mini acoustic amp should make this easier than toting my Yamaha APX along. I also appreciate you asking that people not use course language in the comments section. Thank you very much, and have a very happy new year !
Thank you very much . . I'm I love to hear when people have Godly values 😊😀
I never seen before you show me, but I know today, very interesting tutorial. The world will known this fantastic guitar 👏👏👍👍
Thank you very much 😊😊😃😃
I had no idea that’s where you plugged the guitar in! I’ve been going crazy looking where to plug it in to my amp. Thank you again! Lol
Thank you very much 😊😃
Wonderful to see another post from you. I've been wondering where you've been hiding. 🙂 Donner strikes again! Another great guitar at a great price.
Thank you! Sadly, I've had to do other work because the channel doesn't yet pay for itself . . Maybe it will one day 😊😃
Sad to know that, anyway your method still the best and complete for a low price, just thanks for that.
The last video you've made about the guitar unfortunately they can't deliver to my country.
Gareth I wish you a sunny and fun summer.
Have a nice day.
@@badbotchdown9845 It's a shame they don't deliver to your country. Summer is my favourite season, but in Wales we don't get that much sunshine . . 😊😊
@@guitar-academy sure you have, as so many countries will suffocate because of climate change why not UK aswell.
May ask a question did you have tested Elixir strings before?
@@badbotchdown9845 Yes, I use Elixir all the time. They are my favourite stings both for electric and acoustic. I try other stings from time to time but always seem to end up back on Elixirs. 😊😊
Thank you so so so much for showing me how to tune this guitar because I had no idea where to put the tuner because there’s no head stick on the guitar!
It's really awkward isn't it . . Thank you for watching 😊😃
Like we say in the south (Florida)...
Dang! Thank you
Maybe its me, you've been missed. I have learned alot from your tutorials.
Florida . . nice 😊 Thank you. I've had to do some other work to make some money, the channel doesn't support itself yet, but I'm sure it will do one day. 😃
The best review of this guitar that I can find.
Thank you very much . . 😊😃
I'm a lefty and in the absence of a left handed version, I bought one of these. It was really easy to convert to lefty. I removed the strings and both the nut and bridge just lifted out so I could flip them and restring in reverse. I used D'Addario Phosphor Bronze 12-53, only because the included strings were cut too short to string in reverse which is a shame as I think those pre-fitted strings were of high enough quality to use. Sure the controls, socket and string trees are in the wrong places, but none of these impeded usage and the larger stand/wing/side is actually better served as a leg rest than the smaller appendage. I added a secondary strap button on the tail end because the integrated socket strap button wasn't really ideally placed for a lefty.
Wow . . that's useful information, I though it would be really hard to convert. Well done, it's worth the effort if you like the guitar 😊😃
That perspective about converting to left hand was awesome and I strongly agree with the larger stand as a leg rest the shorter one gets all lose and shaky
with use so I use a strap made out of a leather waist belt as it is right thickness for the 6.5mm jack strap thingy to hold the strap and guitar snug and tight.
it looks cool too as a tan leather compliments the mahogany finish. Also the included strap chipped paint from the aluminum frames as they have a metal
hook for the bag so I took the default strap off and put a waist belt by putting some holes.
There is a lefty version.
@@dawnofza1443 perfect 😊😊 But where are you seeing that, I can't find it.
@@dawnofza1443 The only place I've seen a lefty version advertised was on a fake ad on Facebook. They were allegedly selling them for about £25, so definitely just a phishing ad.
Great job on this thorough review 🙏🏼
Thank you . . . much appreciated! 😊😃
Excelente review, muchas gracias. Estoy emocionado por comprarme una de estas guitarras
Muchas gracias . . . estoy segura de que no te decepcionará. 😊😀
Awesome review, looks and sounds decent 👍🏻
Thank you . . I like it when I don't have to review a bad guitar because it's easier. But I get more reviews for bad reviews strangely 😊😃
I picked one up and it is amazing. This will likely be my main practice guitar as a beginner level player. I've had a guitar for a while and enjoy playing, but I can't practice how I want to practice due to the noise.
These are running for dirt cheap, like new condition, on ebay if you are willing to go "open box".
Good suggestion . . I've had lots of opened box bargains off eBay 😊😀
Thank you very kindly for doing this. I ordered the black maple one and should be receiving it soon. Donner's US distributor told me the guitar wood should not have any affect on the tone or weight of the guitar. I am puzzled over the obvious omission of about two more frets at the top of the neck (a la Yamaha's) They could have easily put in two more frets with excellent access at the body/neck joint. So here's my question: Would it be possible to install two more frets after the build? I really feel Donner missed a wonderful opportunity here, especially since there new Hush-X has 22 frets. The Hush-X is NOT an acoustic travel guitar but completely electric with pickups and nickel strings. There is no Piezo pickup, so that is not a solution. Anyway, for now I'll have to live with less frets for solo's. Pat Metheny did it and so did Wes so I'm in good company.
Thank you . . . Yes, I thought that. They've provided a full length fretboard that would take at least 2 more frets. Regarding fitting them yourself or with a luthier, honestly 'I don't know' if the fretboard was rose wood or some other solid wood I would have said yes, but I don't know anything about 'HPL or high pressure laminate' . . sorry 😊😃
The best review on this guitar.
Thank you very much 😊😃
Good review man thanks! Единственное, добавить бы подключение к комбику и звук на перегрузе с гейном
thanks 😊😀
Would have been interesting to know what difference a good set of strings would have had. Or if the stock strings are already good enough.
I forgot to mention the strings, but they are good. They feel like they anti rust coated and are very nice. After I've reviewed a guitar I usually change the strings to ones I like, but this time I've left the string on. I'll do a follow video when I've had it for a while, and I'll mention your question 😊😃
I'm thinking about buying this guitar but many people say that the action's too high. Can you tell me how high the action on the 12. Fret is?
It would be a waste of time me telling you that now because I have changed the strings, adjusted the neck relief and adjusted the action to the perfect height for me, but even when I got it straight out of the box the action was very good. 😊
I am wondering if it is easy to play fingerpicking with its' narrow neck. What is the size at the nut? between 1st string and 6th at the bridge? What is general playability for finger-style in comparison with wider nut guitars? Thanks
(BTW your review is very detailed and thanks for excellent video quality, so many details!)
The nut width is a pretty standard 43mm and the saddle 64mm with 51mm 'E' to 'E' at the bridge (a Strat is 53mm). We have different taste as your and my previous comments demonstrate, but I like the feel for fingerstyle and even used it for work for about a month (recording in the studio between 4 and 9 hours a day) and I really liked to play it and I found it was easy to get a professionally acceptable sound out of it going through amp modelling gear. My honest criticisms after this time are, it's a pain when you have to use a tool to tune it (not a problem with the XYZ 🤔) and the end of the guitar needs to have some protection because you inevitable end up standing the guitar up on it's end and eventually it will ware. I hope this helps 😊
@@guitar-academy - I am beginner; as all beginners, I assume that wider spacing will help with finger-pick and will help to avoid buzz. For example, acoustic Martin OO12-28 Parlour guitar has about 46mm (1 13/16") width at the nut, and 57.2mm (2 1/4") width between E and E at the bridge. My "preference" mostly based on reading forum posts, that's why I asked you... thanks for sharing. My fingers are not thick, just normal. But I am trying to learn without nails, so I thought maybe wider spacing will help.
Anyway, I just ordered Donner, I need silent (acoustic) guitar in any case, and this one seems to be the best (except Godin!)
@@TPITEOTGIt's difficult as a beginner because you will not find out your preference from any forum, you need to get your hands on a couple of guitars and try them (maybe in a shop). I've been teaching for over 30 years and I've seen every type of guitarist and no 2 are the same. The gaps between the strings won't make a lot of difference to your ability to play fingerstyle, but it makes a massive difference to your ability to play chords. So, for example if you have fat fingers wide string gaps are an advantage, but if you have narrow fingertips or small fingers wide string spacing might make some chords nearly impossible. Some chords, for example the 'F' half barre have 2 strings being played with one finger so you might need closer strings to play chords like this. Even if you haven't got a guitar yet watch this video and hopefully you'll see what I mean ua-cam.com/video/YID9-iltoak/v-deo.html I hope this helps 😊😊
@@guitar-academy maybe I misunderstood you: are you saying playing chords is not related to fingerstyle? Travis picking doesn’t need proper chord technique? I bought Donner and playing C chord almost impossible: low E string is hitting my index finger making buzz. And I file my nail heavily to avoid this, and my fingers are very thin. A lot of forums mention golden sizing 44.5mm or 46mm for fingerstyle; Martin makes 46mm. Donner is, if I remember correctly, 42mm.
Anyway, I don’t care about C chord since all the other technique is Ok. However, there is also plucking-picking hand, and if spacing at the bridge is narrow then it is difficult unless you play with nails… with artificial nails.
@@TPITEOTGStop reading forums and get a guitar and start practising . .
To say 'I don't care about C chord' is the dumbest thing I've ever heard, are you only planning on learning one tune or something. Travis picking is just fingerstyle and in fact you use more full chords in Travis style than any other style of fingerpicking because you use multiple pinches. I've taught fingerstyle guitar to numerous guitarist with no nail on telecasters, Ibanez and other really narrow necked guitars and only two people in 30 years had a problem, one was a railway engineer and the other a professional mountain climber so they both had really huge fingers.
Start learning . . here's my fingerstyle courses;
Book one ua-cam.com/play/PLIQJcXCYbgO2q9hDUBT0E5z1JZDk3bowI.html
Book two ua-cam.com/play/PLIQJcXCYbgO1uyExG1qS2puZ6aC11cA-M.html
Many thanks for a Brilliant review, the Main reason i wanted to buy this Guitar was for to take on Holiday with me as i don't want to fall back on my practice, and a compact Guitar i could carry about with me ,did you say Sir that you can't take it as hand Luggage? , maybe i can put it in my suitcase, would love to hear your advice, Many thanks
Ian
For flights out of UK it's too long for hand luggage but the case is reinforced and is very protective. Is the case protective enough? I honestly don't know because sometimes the luggage handlers just don't seem to care. it might fit in your case diagonally, it's 85.1cm long. 🤔
Many thanks for your reply, it's really appreciated 😊
@@ianwhitelaw921no problem . . 😊😊
I want this guitar so much ❤
Yes it is a nice guitar 😊
Yesterday my guitare arrived. I really like it and you're review was pretty accurate. 👌 I've got one question: It seams that the oil of my fingers kinda shine on yhe fingerboard. Should i oil the board?
When you get a new guitar it's not uncommon for the fretboard to be dry or even have a layer of factory dust on it . Yes, I would treat it with a light coat of olmand/lemon, oil or you can buy 'fretboard conditioner' if you want something designed for the job. 😊😀
Is it possible to review on "Enya NOVA Go SP1 Carbon Fiber Acoustic Electric Guitar"
I'll look into it 😊😀
Can I assemble on this guitar model the nylon strings?
This guitar isn't intended for nylon strings and therefore you might find issues like intonation problems if you fit them. 🤔
Is there a similar model that mounts them?
I'd like to see a detailed comparison of this and the Yamaha SLG200S
Good idea!, I was going to do a SLG200 18 months later video, so I'll include this . . 😊
Curious how you feel about the playability of the guitar vs the Yamaha silent the guitar. Thank you
It really feels different to the Yamaha. The metal frame is smaller but heavier, but the neck on the Donner is slightly more chunky. I prefer the electrics in the Donner, because I prefer to process the sound outside the guitar using a modeller of VST. When you think of the difference in price there's not a lot in it. Sorry I can't be more conclusive 🤔😊
Great review on the Donner HUSH-1. I got one in September and I really like it, only thing is that the action at the 12th fret is very high. Is there a way to lower that. I'm not experienced with adjusting the truss rod and I don't want to damage the guitar, but if that's what I need to do, could you please give me some advice on how to do it? Thanks in advance and thanks for this great video, very informative. Love your playing as well.
I haven't made a video for this specific guitar because mine was fine on delivery, but this video explains the process clearly using another guitar. ua-cam.com/video/QRSAQocR_rY/v-deo.htmlsi=yVIVfBCHeUhTmLdS
Thank you so much, I was able to adjust the truss rod perfectly with the video link you provided. It was very bowed and now it's perfect. I really appreciate your help, thanks again. And, happy holidays to you as well. @@guitar-academy
Хороший обзор 👍 При подключении наушников во время игры еë слышно окружающим ?
спасибо 😊 да, могут, но очень тихо
i have one and it is really just portable and all, it did good with hushing
😊
omg someone actually replied me
@@guitar-academy
Does the lower frame gets looser/ wobbly overtime, from usage and assembly?
So far I have been able to tighten it up, but yes it is a worry, what will happen in time. 😊😃
Just an update: I put some steel washers under the screw so the pressure would be distributed over a greater surface.
@@pariss.6257That makes complete sense., and it will help to protect the wood as well. I hope it resolves the issue 😊😀
For all the engineering which went into this guitar, there really should be snap-in buttons to facilitate easy placement and removal of the metal top and bottom rests.
Yes, agreed. They've now made a new one, the donner hush-x. The new one is an electric version that has a lot of changes, but they sold out straight away and I haven't been able to get one to review. 🤔
@@guitar-academy Interesting ... thanks !
Any suggestions what floor stand will fit for hush 1
That's an issue. Sadly, I haven't found one yet that fits . .
Do you know if this has a under the bridge pickup or is it a under the saddle pickup? Thank You!
Thanks for the question . . Yes, It's a standard under the saddle piezo pickup. 😊😀
@guitar-academy Great. Thank You for this information. I ordered one of these yesterday and was really curious as to the pickup location.
Thanks for the video. How can I turn off the guitar? The volume knob is not designed to turn on/off the guitar, right? Thanks.
The switch is part of the jack-plug sockets, so to turn the guitar off just make sure nothing is plugged into it. I hope this helps 😊
Thank you very much. No wonder the battery ran out when I let the earphone plugged in.@@guitar-academy
Great tip!
@@lenhanthanhngoaingu3379 it's easily done, even when you know it flattens the battery 🤔
What would this guitar sound like when not plugged in?
it's quiet, not silent though. You can hear it to practise in a quiet room without disturbing anyone, and you have the headphones. 😊
Hi I’m wondering what the song is that was played for the tester. I want to learn it. 😊
the song is 'Rivers of blood by Sad Fantasy' and how to play it will be uploaded soon and in Book 2 of the GCH Guitar Academy fingerstyle course. 😊
@@guitar-academy thank you so much for taking the time. I tried everything I could ❤️
Hi.is it ok with holding the tune of the guitar after a while of using it.what is your experience?
I've found it really solid on the tuning, so I don't have to retune very often at all. This is just as well really because my only criticism would be that the tuners are awkward 😀😁
@@guitar-academy one more question, what about balance of the guitar,is it comfortable to hold it, maybe fretboard wants to go down?
Would this be good for people with small hands?
No knowing you I can't answer this question with confidence but the neck is a fairly narrow one but you can get more narrow necks. It at all possible, visit some music/guitar shops and test a few guitars first. 😊
What capo will work with hush1, thx
Capos are adjustable or self tightening with a spring so they fin any guitar. So any capo will do 😊😀
very nice review and I bought one based on this. 1 question: do you get sound through the headphones without plugging into an amp?
Thank you . . . Yes, you can use the headphones without needing an amp 😊😀
@@guitar-academy thanks for your reply. Both the headphone output and connection to the amp are not working. I've requested a replacement but their reviews for customer service are just awful!
That sound awful anyway. It sounds like the preamp is completely dead. I assume you've tried a new battery and making sure it's in correctly ? If so, I hope they sort it out for you quickly. 🤔 @@ecojot
@@guitar-academy they sent a working replacement so all is good. The action is high though - even after adjusting the truss rod. Should I remove the bridge and sand it down?
If you feel confident enough to remove the saddle (the white bit) and sand it then that would lower the action. It isn't hard to do and I've done a video on this, but not on a Donner. Here's the link ua-cam.com/video/QRSAQocR_rY/v-deo.html@@ecojot
Thank you for the sharing
My pleasure, thank you 😊😃
Damn good review
Thank you very much 😊😀
Interesting. Kinda like the Mogabi in reduced form (less options). How is the string noise on recorded output? I have found that these "digital" guitars seem to pick up a lot of noise string noise on slides or hand movements. Nice Demo, Sir, Thank You.
Thank you very much. The strings feel anti-rust coated and yes, you could hear string noise. The string noise came from the picking hand though because of the coating and my sitting position. Once the coating wore off a bit where I was picking, and once I got a good sitting position if sounds really nice. I'll do a follow up video once I've had it for a while. 😊😃 (nice to hear from you)
Do you really need that top brace? The bottom brace is good for balancing it on your knee but the top one is maybe not needed.
No I guess you don't need the top . . I like the top one in place because I prefer the feel and the extra weight, but that's just my taste. It definitely won't effect the sound anyway 😊😃
Does it fit in standard flight luggage?
It depends on what airline you fly with . . it's 84cm in the case
so a 'large' checked luggage 67 x 47 cm would just fit it in diagonally. I note that many of the competing guitars of this type place the tuners on the underside and take the strings around rollers at the tail end. @@guitar-academy
@@AndrewtafelklavierThat sound right. There's lots of choices out there with different ways of configuring the tuners, you can take you choice.
Great review. Any idea if they'd make a left handed one?
Someone in the comments said they do, but I can't find it. 🤔
@@guitar-academy Ah, okay. That's great. Thank you. 🙂
There is something of a baroque quality to the sound. I guess because pizo on solid wood. Nice 🙂
Yes, it very much has it's own sound 😊😀
thank you, sir🥰
Welcome 😊 thank you too 😊😀
What's the price?
You need to do a search in your country to find that out 🤔
Does this guitar come in nylon string?
So far NO . . But I hope they do make one 😊👍
Nice review, thanks! I'm still confused about the strings. Are those electric or acoustic ones?
They are brass wound acoustic strings. Electric strings are steel because electric guitars rely on magnetism, but the piezo pickup in this guitar doesn't rely on magnetism so the strings you use is up to you. I hope this helps 😊
@@guitar-academy Thx for the quick answer! Quite confusing because the website says nickel plated steel strings, they should correct that...
@@andreasp.2619 I guess the two things can be true because the top 3 strings (the unwound ones) are nickel plated. Most string manufacturers would call them brass wound though after the bottom 3 strings. 🤔
price ?
Do a Google search because it depends on what country you're in and where you buy it from 🤔
How much does it weight?
3.22 kg according to the website
EXELENTE REWIE.
ESTOY CON LA INTENCION DE COMPRAR UNA GUITARRA DE VIAJE.
PERO ESTOY VIENDO CUAL LO COMPRO YA QUE HAY ESTA DONNER QUE ME PARECE QUE ES BUENA.
PERO HAY OTRA GUITARRA DE VIAJE MARCA MARCA SEGIELA QUE TIENE UN AMPLIFICADOR DE SONIDO QUE SE VE QUE ES MAS COMPLETO.
PERO NO HE VISTO UN REWIE DE LA SEGIELA.
ME GUSTARIA SABER SI HAY ALGUN REWIE DE LA GUITARRA SEGIELA.
LA SEGIELA LO VENDEN A TRAVEZ DE ALIEXPRESS.
😊
What is that battery
it's a 9V, PP3 😊
What string gauge do you think is the best for this guitar?
I think it I'll try some Elixir 10-47 because I like these. But I thought during the tests that it was a little lacking in bass, so I might try some cheaper RotoSound JK9's because they're 09-48, so lighter on the top but heavier on the bass. But that's just my taste, you might like something different. 😊😃
@@guitar-academy Thanks! also If ever the tuning machine gets rusty over the course of time, is there anyway you can buy a replacement for that part?
@@sckfyll That's a good question 🤔 but sadly I don't know the answer. sorry
@@guitar-academy No worries, that was one of my concerns when it comes to deciding whether to buy this guitar. Since the guitar has a custom tuning head, it might be hard to find a replacement for it in the long term.
@@sckfyll agreed . . I snapped a tuner on a Yamaha SL200N and it was a nightmare trying to find them. I was really, really lucky in that a second hand set came up on eBay. 😊😊
this guitar is god send for average people!🙏🙏
it is a very nice guitar 👍
Very good unboxin
Thank you 🤗
for me the allen screws are a deal breaker, it should pop together
yes, that's fair. They could be made to clip together 🤔
what is the exact length of the guitar
85.1cm
nice.. thnx for effort ;)
Most welcome 😊 thank you 😊😀
Is Yamaha silent guitar better than this
Good question . . but hard to answer. I'm going to make a video on this. The neck on the Donner is really nice but it feels a lot smaller. The Yamaha feels more expensive because the tuners are better and the wooden rests are nice. The Donner (to me) sounds as good as, or even better than the Yamaha. The Donner is on offer on Amazon at the moment and is less than half the price of the Yamaha.
I think they are close enough that some people will prefer the Yamaha and some the Donner 🤔
Merci beaucoup +++ !!!
Merci beaucoup aussi 😊😃
Merci 👍👍👍👍!!!!
Thank you too 😊😃
I am a novice, big fat construction hands NO fingernails. What says you ? Thank you
This is very small feeling . . possibly not ideal for you. What type of music do you want to learn ?
8:57 This is annoying ... I think they could adapt better mechanism without this bolt.
Yes, good suggestion. 😊
@@ignungg And they have for their electric and Hush 2
That's a very cute kick around guitar! At that price point however, I'll just wait 'til Donner comes out with the Floyd Rose edition!!! 😜😜😜🎖🍕
hmmm . . that would be interesting 🤔
👍👍🌟
😊😃
Comparing to competitor’s guitar from XYZ which costs twice less and uses absolutely the same basic cheapest “imported” sound pickup *without reverb* and constantly draining battery, Donner doesn’t use “zero fret” and, unplugged, sounds loud… but build quality, “shininess” (presentation), tuners, warranty give it 10x better value than competitors. I still think it is overpriced.
Really sorry but I disagree with your conclusion between the Donner and the XYZ though I do respect your choice.
But for me . . . The donner is constructed very neatly so the machine-heads are set back into the body and the neck is a very well made, graded asymmetrical shape. The XYZ feels like it wasn't designed, it was just made without consideration. The machine-heads are the standard mini type that are mounted on a piece of wood that's then been screwed on the back of the body so it digs in you and destroys any resonance the body might have. The neck is a standard 'D' shape which is uniform all the way up and there's no top bar to make if feel more like a real guitar. The Donner is slightly longer which isn't good but both guitars are too long to go in hand luggage anyway, which is limited to 55 cm. Very importantly for a travel guitar the Donner case is way better than the XYZ because the donner case has reinforcing between the padding.
Regarding the batteries going flat in all these guitars and all Fishman preamps, just buy a 'usb rechargeable pp3' . . . job done.
@@guitar-academy - thank you; I have one guitar with 9V battery and it doesn't drain, I think manufacturer (Donner) mentions battery is enough for 1 month. Which is more than enough for me. Yes, after watching more videos and comparing... fretwork at Donner seems 10x better, and tuning pegs, and neck design, and even hook (XYZ doesn't have hook); everything looks like Lexus GX vs. Honda Civic.
"The neck is a standard 'D' shape" - I think they have some innovative "asymmetrical" design with neck.
Anyway, I just ordered directly from Donner, price is lower than Amazon, and no taxes ;)
@@TPITEOTGI really hope your pleased, but think you probably will be. I'd love to hear what you think when you've tried it out properly . . 😊
@@guitar-academy - ohhhhh..... just received it, direct order from Donner Canada, and it came with 0.5mm-1mm deep slots filed on top of compensated saddle!!! They even made it per-string-thickness, "professionally" (in quotes)... I am really confused, googling now "compensated slotted saddles". Blunder?
[UPDATE]
1) slotted saddle enforced by construction (tuning pegs close to saddle); to enforce exact spacing between strings.
2) A little harder to play clean C chord (35mm from 1st to 6th strings at the nut); 1st and 3rd strings are buzzing hitting my 1st and 2nd fingers. And I have thin fingers. I can play clean C chord on my another guitar with 37mm from 1st string to 6th. Maybe I can file nut a little, to make it perfect "zero-fret" like; and maybe I need to try with different strings (and file may nails, and of course improve my skills!)
3) out of the box, action is good; I am beginner; I can do chromatic exercise from 1st to 6th strings at first frets without feeling that action is high. Just normal; 6th bass string may even buzz if plucked under slight angle.
4) With strap, I don't even need bottom metal part, I hold it "classic" style and I learn fingerpicking. But top part is not strong, bending under weight of my picking hand; 1 screw only, not enough.
Good travel guitar + good for quiet practicing + portable.
[UPDATE 2] I measured nut height, strings are above 0.024" at 1st fret when I press 4th fret. Too high, should be less than 0.010"; or even "zero-fret"-like. Need to file nut. It will be easier to play (including "clean" C chord).
Clip your nails 😂
follow the course and learn why guitarists need nails;
ua-cam.com/video/Wx63XRXD3-I/v-deo.html
Thanks for the review. I really like that guitar! Can't afford one though. Retired. We'll see what the future brings.
you'll have to hint to folks . . Christmas is on it's way
@@guitar-academy I’m sorry but never did what?
@@AirstripBum My internet is in and out today so you got the wrong answer . . I've sorted it now 😊
@@guitar-academy That’s okay brother. It happens to me all the time.
@@AirstripBum 😊😊
Will Nylon strings work on this?
You can put them on if you use nylon string with ball ends, but you might have problems with the intonation (internal tuning). I think I'll have to make a video where I try it. 🤔