I don't normally comment, but if you ever have the desire I'm sure a good number of your subscribers would love to see more straight up talk about guitars in your collection. I enjoyed this one.
Was in the Marines 1973. Stationed in Memphis. Nothing to do but electronics school and hanging out at the bars after work. One Saturday I walk into the PX look at some albums. Nearby against the wall are 3 guitars. All are knock offs. One sort of looks like a Washburn, another is sort of a violin type, and the other is an Ensenada Hummingbird. Tried all 3 and the Hummingbird sounded the best by far and had the easiest action. Couldn't buy it though because I thought it was a girls guitar. I just knew that because it had the pretty pickguard it was made for girls (figured like clothes they get the pretty colors in guitars). I know, pretty dumb. I go back to the barracks and for the first time someone is playing a guitar in it. I walk around a bunch of room dividers made up of lockers and there he is. A big 6'2" strapping made-for-television poster-boy Marine playing that "girls guitar." He nods at me and he keeps playing. I run back to the PX praying that imitation Hummingbird is available. It is and I buy it. I run back to the barracks (all in about 25 minutes) and look for that Marine hoping he will show me a few chords. He's not there. I figure I'll see him, I mean it's a barracks, where's he going to go? I never see him again and I get hooked on playing guitar. For the next 6 months or so I can't put it down and drive everybody nuts. It's like a drug. Then I get better. I meet friends with it. Later I court a special girl with it. She was real good looking, real nice, and at that time I didn't make much dough. A guy needs a trick, something special to land a girl like that (lots of competition). That girl is now my wife of 33 years. Anyway, been in a few music groups, play with friends, and (wisely) still court my wife with it from time to time. Anyhow back to the Marines. Over the next couple years I never saw someone come in with an instrument except that one guy for just those few minutes. I swear if there are angels, that Marine I saw was an angel. Sometimes I get real cynical about people and then I remember that Marine and I know there is magic in this world. Anyhow .....that's my Hummingbird story.
Great story, fellow comrade. Your post enabled me to recall several 70s/80s pop rock hits that other Sailors had shared in A school, the Squadron and overseas deployments. Thank you for serving our country.
Awesome story. Yes, Angels are real and he may have been one. Look at how that guitar changed your life. Thanks for the experience and keep on playing.
I am sooo glad you opened this channel and didn't give up the ghost just yet. I subscribed to you a little over a year after you started the PT Channel and was blown away by you're talent and you're ability to teach songs. You have been and still are one of the best on UA-cam man. I know i am not the only person to say this but THANK YOU , Thank you for all of the Fantastic Videos over the years and Thank You for *Even in current Bad Times* Making UA-cam a Brighter place with each video you post. Thank You.
I have a Korean-made knock off of the Dove made by Pan in, or about, 1972-73. I have had it since I was 17 as it was an early birthday gift from my mom when I was turning 18. It was $125 new and has been a trusted friend for many years. I appreciate your channel very much.
Thank you for all the vids. I really enjoy this guitar spot you have created. I hope you leave the old vids up, as many of us are just scratching the surface of all the cool stuff that lives there. As Keith says "it's as fresh as the day you laid it down" Looking forward to being a regular here on the new channel. Again....much thanks
The past year you have brought my passion for playing guitar back into my life. Prior to 2010 I had a great time living the life as a musician for many years and had an injury also some unfortunate events even lost all interest to play ever again and now I credit you for helping me find music again. Love my Gibson Songwriter Deluxe EC. Always wanted either a Dove or Hummingbird. Maybe soon I will have one in my home. In the meantime Great videos, and great lessons :)
Just picked up my first Hummingbird, and frankly, my first investment in a good acoustic.. Also, very much appreciate this channel, and your previous one, they taught me a lot.. 🙂
Good informative comparison. I have a 1968 Dove which I've owned for 48 years and a 1990's dove. Both sound great the old one has a narrower neck and much heavier and real tortoise shell pick guard. I'm about to buy a humming bird as I want the whole set. Lol. So your video was useful to know what difference to expect thanks. Cheers Phil
James James - the man is back! Would never have put you as 46 - I'd have said late 20s! Great job as I'm looking at the Epi dove and hummer at the mo. Am also looking at some of the Japanese versions from the lawsuit days. Good to see you continue as your posts are a goldmine for those of us who want/need a 'straight up how to nail it' guide. Cheers from sunny Thailand
I have this meme someone sent me, Wife is beating this guy in the head while he sits playing guitar & the caption says "Why are you looking at nother guitar, you have 12 already, why can't you be like a normal Husband & watch porn". lol
PT: Saw many of your vids. Nice job. You have definitely provided a service to thousands of people. Like you said ,there is a big difference between now and 15 years ago on You Tube. It's like American Idol now. Everyone has an opinion and we know about those , right! People are so rude , unkind , all for themselves and don't really care about feelings. The certain Generation that still lives in their parents‘ basement don't have any compassion or know the definition of empathy .What goes around comes around. Good luck with your new channel. Thank you.
Knowing how much you love your guitars would you have any recommendations in relation to purchasing a hummingbird ? I’ve heard some horror stories about the new ones but I have wanted one for many years.
Hello James James. In a guitar store some years ago, I was able to make this comparison/contrast between the Hummingbird and Dove and can agree with you on the two. Another guitar that I sampled was the Gibson Country Western. The sound is completely different. The CW looks a lot like the Hbird only with the blonde top and has a deeper tone than the Dove. The sound of the CW was a bit muddled whereas the other two had better sound definition between the strings. It is as if each string has its own place where the sound exits the sound hole. The CW that I sampled sounded as if the strings were clumped and murky. It may have been just a quirk in that one guitar. When I first found your former channel I thought that your work was right on. Now, after seeing this Hummingbird and Dove video, you went several rungs higher on the "cool and groovy" ladder. I love my Hbird. It is a 65 cherry sunburst. Your videos save a lot of time for me. Thanx. Keep up the good work. Jed
One of the primary differences between the Dove and the Hummingbird goes unmentioned here, scale length. The hummingbird has the shorter scale length (like the slope shouldered Gibson dreads - 24.75"), while the Dove has a long scale length (25.5").
Glad to see you are back. I have been following you for some time and have enjoyed your lessons. Sorry you had to put up with the bull previously. Rock on.......
Great explanation. I had about 70 stringed instruments 10 years ago and now have about 30. I've 4-5 Doves 4-5 Hummingbirds and 4-5 J 200s. I also have a variety of Guild J30-J 50 & 55 and d50's all from Rhoade Island. Don't know if they're from the 70's. I love the guild J30-12 string. Best 12 string for the buck. I've got a real odd Dove with a tune-o-matic (electric ) style bridge. and some Montana Specials. Your explanation about the voice of mahogany and maple was great . Love the new stuff!
Hey James James, I know this video is old, but my collection is just catching up to yours. I was wondering what year your Dove is. I just bought a 1989, the first year of production from Bozeman. It's a tobacco burst, much like yours, and I don't see many of these.
Beautiful guitars. It's nice to hear the difference between them, and it's nice and informative to hear you talk about the different wood, and when the Stones used which guitar, etc. Thanks for the info! Gibsons really have that 60's sound and they are my favorites, but alas they are currently not in my budget. I am going to get an Epiphone Limited Edition 1964 Texan. It's about as close as I can get to that Gibson sound, lol. Do you know that guitar?
Great video. Is there enough difference between your Goldtop & Burst Standards to do a similar video? I know those 57 classics in the goldtop have a really nice growl to them.
I bought a new Hummingbird. I noticed that some of the braces were stamped "Hummingbird / Dove". So I suspect dimensions of the bodies are the same, but the scale length on Dove is 25.5, HB 24.75. I wonder what they do with neck? Is the neck longer? Or the bridge positioned farther down the body?
awesome, watching your old vids inspired me to get my 2011 Hummingbird Artist. Love this guitar. And as a sidebar, really respect your reasons for switching to the new channel, couldn't agree more. Thanks for all your time and vids, dude.
They both sound amazing ..I know you have a bunch of different Gibson acoustics but have you ever played an old (60s)J45? They have a warmer tone than the Dove or H-bird but don't sound quite as full I don't think . I have a choice right now between a 1964 J45 and a newer (1980) tobacco burst Dove similar to yours and am very conflicted ! I wonder what year your Dove is ? I'll bet it is newer ,early 2000s?
Hi I am curious if you have tried the Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze strong strings on either of your acoustics? I just tried them (medium light), and I found they added a brightness to my guitar ( Hummingbird), that is rather enjoyable. If you try them, would really enjoy hearing your opinion. Thanks
JJ/PT you have an amazing collection of guitars. Not only do I very much enjoy you videos - I really like seeing the various guitars which you use. I enjoy your old channel and this one as well. Just listened to the Rolling Stones "Last Time" on your Hummingbird.
What kind of strings do you use on your Hummingbird? Sounds great! I like the Gibson 80/20s and John Pearse Pure Nickel. By the way I played a maple Hummingbird and it was a knockout. Have heard walnut ones too and they just incredible!!
I just have to echo Rick Quimby's comments, I am truly saddened by your final vid as private tricker there are some complete mugs out there. I've so enjoyed your contributions, I can't thank you enough, best of luck to you what ever you decide to do in the future.
Gibsons are a bit pricey for me so what do you think of an Epiphone Dove. Do you think I should go with an expensive guitar or just a regular 300 dollar guitar.
Very interesting. I have to say though... That hummingbird sounds fantastic to me! The quality of the sound on that one far surpasses the quality of my playing, but I still want one. Thanks for the demo.
Hi! Wow, you have so many guitars...It seems like some guitars records really well, which model would you recommend for live recording? Oh, and the chair? I am from Sweden, looks like a Swedish design classic Lilla Åland, or?
Great video on two great guitars. I don't recall if you do too much finger picking style (I guess Doc Watson would be the closest style), but which one of these guitars would suit that style better that the other, or would there be another model that you prefer or would recommend? They both sound great for strumming, and the differences in sustain are very noticeable. Thanks.
What gauge strings do you normally run on your acoustics? I dont think you have mentioned it before in the comments. I find that custom-lights (.11 i believe) on my J-35 are just right.
Hey there: watched your video on the dove vs hummingbird. I have a 1990 hummingbird, I think made soon after the move to Bozeman, Mt. Mine was done up with the natural top and red back/sides. It actually has the vintage "green" tuners which I always liked. I had a Fishman transducer installed. Unfortunately the little bird has worn away on mine also. Gibson won't sell you a new pick guard. As I inquired. Aftermarket guards are not as thick.
Awesome, love hearing talk about guitars. Giving your two cents/ comparisons/ thoughts/ artists that use them/ songs... whatever. Thanks for that, would love to see more like this on your collection
Hay James, personally I love your Martin. But in ur Angie lesson the dove sound so so good, how I love nice guitars ) maybe sometime you could do a lesson on the stones, miss you ? Thks
I have a 2006 Hummingbird southpaw in cherry sunburst with quilted mahogany back and sides, built by the Gibson Custom Shop. It's drop dead gorgeous to the eye. But for D-size tone, I much prefer my D-41 L and my Gibson Songwriter Deluxe L cutaway. Love videos that compare different guitars. Thanks.
PT, I'm a victim of the economy. I did settle on a $800.00 Alvarez. This does the job because the soundboard is one solid flat piece instead of layers of laminate. Eventually I'd love to get that Everley bros. mdl you have in your stable... Love the new site and honored to have you for my teacher ...
Hey man, I just created a google account so that I could subscribe to your channel so that I could say "Thank You" for all the great videos you posted as Privettricker. I was so sad to watch your last video. All I can is "haters gonna hate". I find your videos to be totally unselfish, totally professional and the most accurate I've seen anywhere on the internet. And damn you can play! Please keep on! I'm always impressed and thankful. Peace!
A friend gave me a 1976 Hummingbird that his friend at church had given him. It was beat to hell though. The body was intact but cracked and everything was very worn. It had the deeper, more resonant sound that I like, but it was too hard for me to play. A few years later, the original owner asked if I would trade it back to him, so I got one of those 1985 MIJ Telecasters from him. I have never looked back, as I absolutely love the Tele, which I generally keep tuned to Open G for playing Stones stuff. I eventually got an all-mahogany Martin D-15. It doesn't have the deep rumble of the Hummingbird, but it is not bright by any means (which I like).
I love this video. Could you try to do one on the Les Paul Standard vs. The Les Paul Custom I've been going back and forth for awhile. Thanks and keep doing what your doing I'am sure this channel will be just as good as the old one.
Insightful stuff. It would seem appropriate now if you did another similar video with the three les pauls that you own, as I (and i'm sure many others) sometimes really find it hard to hear differences in similar electric guitar models
Hi Walter. This is not the guy in the video, who is a good guitarist. I have a Hummigbird and a J-200, both 2014 models. I used to own a 1990 J-200 (which I liked better). The Hummingbird is great, but the J-200 is superior in my opinion, deeper, louder, even prettier. The Hum is GREAT, and now I'm trying to get a Dove, but the J200 is the best.
It's a really beautiful guitar. What year is it? My fathers 1930 Martin was hijacked by my sister after dads passing, I hope to see it again soon, it was left to me by him, but I haven't seen it in 11 years. Wish me luck.
Ha ha that's just like me, I've owned probably a dozen basses but just bought my first new one about two years ago. I tend to gravitate to the older stuff anyway. I still own my first car, my first amp, my first hi-fi. It's good stuff, no sense getting rid of it just because it has some years under its belt.
nice vid PT, I've got the same HB, had always wanted one since seeing one permanently fixed to KR's hand on all those Nelcotte shots! do love the look, feel and sound of it..definitely one of my most treasured and used possessions! that dove is a lovely looking and sounding guitar too btw!
PT - oops, James - that was pretty cool thanks for demonstrating the difference. Quick question, what kind of strings do you use and what weight? I have a Martin and a Taylor but I had a Guild in high school, back in the dark ages, and probably should get another one or a Gibson - love the sound. Thanks, Bob
is there any particular place you get your guitars from? i was asking if you happen to get them online, how can you guarantee that the guitar you order will be what is expected when you play it for the first time? there was just one time that i bought a guitar online and it didnt arrive at my place in the condition i thought it would. and the guitar shops in my area dont have for example gibson hummingbirds or doves, or ricks etc.
I get them wherever I find a good deal. I'm not particularly hung up on whether I've actually played it before I bought it, because I don't have much trouble getting a guitar to sound the way I want it to sound (sometimes that requires a trip to the luthier). And I know a lot of players are picky about the feel of the neck and all that, but I'm not hung up on that stuff. Hand me a guitar and I'll play it.
JJ, funny you bring up 70's era Guilds, those are my weak spot. I have 6 plus some other rigs. my favorite is my G37, maple sides and maple. Arched back. I've been so impressed with your J200 I've been watching them on eBay. Which brings me to my question, having never had the chance to play one myself I'm afraid of getting a "lemon". Have you can ever come across one like that( speaking of a J200)? I'm watching a 1977 Guild F50 maple right now on eBay.
hi jj thanks for the comparison. I mentioned a few months ago that I had bought a very nice j160e, a 1964 original, 3 years ago. With you playing so many early Beatles tunes, have you ever thought of getting one or you don't like having the electrics on a acoustic. Also i know you say you don't sing very well, the same as me. i know you play by ear but for someone like me that is just learning how to play, would you suggest that i learn the words of the song as i learn the music? would you say that would make learning the chords and chord changes any easier? looking forward to you new channel. thank you very much. p.s. watch your big river vid a while back where you said it might be your favourite song!. it's in my top 3 thanks again
I always loved Doves for recording with, especially when the song isn't acoustic driven and just needs an acoustic guitar to sit in the mix. I always found to just put a good mic with the right mic placement infront of the Dove and it really needs very little work to sit in the mix.
Great video. I really like this type of A/B comparisons. You could really hear the sustain differences. I'm sort of the opposite - I like a ton of sustain and overtones and "extra stuff" and I could really hear the differences.
JJ I'm close to getting a Dove to go with the Bird the 45 and L4A Haven't talked to you in a while, we talked about this a few years ago back in PT Hope your doing well
Interesting comparison. The taylor 614 and 814 have similar differences. I have a D28 and now choosing between 814 and Hummingbird for second. So very different but both are beautiful
I got an epiphone hummingbird pro, its what I could afford (but do have a proper telecaster) and don't know whats going on. Even basic things I could do are now a struggle, having to pin chords down hard and play a lot less sloppy. My question is ....is it worse on a proper one?
First check the action at the nut and fret. Make sure they match the FACTORY measurements. If they do and your hands still hurt then it must be the fretboard radius kicking in. Idk what the radius is so it may just be the action.
Not had it set up professionally, action seems ok, if I move a capo around its not always in tune in different places. I just thought it was a bit unforgiving as I been used to cheapo acoustics. It was the display model so I figured the shop had set it up to play and sound its best. Maybe should get the neck looked at properly?
I've had an Epi Hummingbird Pro for about 8 months. I do my own setups and haven't had any playability issues. In fact, I raised the action a touch when I got it. Great guitar -love it. You could try a lighter gauge of strings, maybe? Tough to say, but mine plays very easily. A setup is probably all you need, and will probably make a huge difference.
Thanks so much for your comment about your preference for no sustain on acoustic guitars. I feel validated. I have expressed the same opinion to other players, only to get a lot of "rolled eyes" and "snickers" With acoustics, sometimes the sustain gets in the way.
Thanks. I just started playing again after 40+ years. It took me a long time to decode on a guitar because of my short stubby hands. I had started with an ukulele 2 years ago for the narrow neck but could not get the depth of sound for some particular songs I wanted. I then went to a Walkabout Dulcimer which I absolutely love. The narrow neck and rich sound are great. I started jamming and some were complaining that I didn't play guitar and could not follow my hands for the chords. The only drawback I found was it is diatonic and not chromatic so I went guitar shopping. I found the Martin 000-28 modified v neck to be a great fit for my hand and short fingers and the body was a tad more narrow then the full body Dreadnought and kept my arm from getting sore and or numb. Needless to say I could not spend the tag money for that guitar. I found a Washburn with the 3/4 corner on the top side that keeps my arm from going numb. Now a new problem has come up. Carpal tunnel is nocking back my playing time. I'm concern the neck I ended up with on the Washburn WCG25SCE Comfort Series Grand Auditorium Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural could be the problem. Doing exercises for the hand and wearing a compression glove at night. Anyone here have a advice? Comment that migh be helpful?
CTS can be caused by gripping and squeezing. The neck itself is probably not the issue, but you should look into making the guitar as easy to play as possible. Lower action, lighter gauge strings, tuning down to Eb; all could possibly help. I always tell my students to work on developing as light a touch as possible. Hope this helps, and good luck.
One further note: Dove has the large headstock. Wider. I like that look better but I think it's only on the J200 and the Dove. Perhaps it might be on some of the older L's, L5, L7. I'll have to check yours out on one of the videos. Right now Dove was about three hundred more than std HB, but about the same as the Cherry-Quilted-Maple-HB's they have out there for sale now. Very nice looking guitars.
If there was one person you'd think of who plays a Gibson Dove, well, at least I do. Tom Petty (Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers). It's even seen in music videos, such as "Letting You Go" (1981- Hard Promises) and "Free Fallin'" (1989-Full Moon Fever). Most of The Heartbreakers' songs (the music) were written using that guitar. Tom even managed to save the guitar after someone set fire to his house in 1987. He rebuilt the house using fireproof materials. Cool piece of history with those guitars. Hummingbird and Dove still remain classic square-shouldered dreadnought from the 60's.
Maybe I got lucky but I bought a HB copy made in Japan about 40 years ago and it is wonderful to play and hear. The make is Columbus. Like I say I may have got lucky with woods, setup, etc. but I'd say they are worth the punt if you can't afford the real thing.
Thanks you guys. I eventually tweaked the truss rod and I couldn't believe the colossal difference a half turn could make. Now it sounds better and my fingers are having fun as is my thumb. Think i need to tweak it back a little, low E just buzzes on couple of notes. Believe me its changed the way i feel about this guitar i can pick it up and get straight into it
Sir, the 'sustain' on a guitar does not come much from the wood used, but, the heights, lengths, and widths of the braces underneath the soundboard - in other words - how the braces are 'tuned'.
Yes, Mr. James, but that affect is much less than how the braces are tuned or shapet, which is the principle design/ manipulative feature that affects every aspect of the sound, other than the bridge. In fact, so important is the height and width of braces that you can set them in such a way as the sustain will shake and quiver, and never seem to go away - no matter what the woods is on the back and sides.
Gibson's J-160E use a lot by Lennon is similar in woods used to the Hummingbird, Mahogany Back/Sides with Spruce top, but it is a Sloped Shoulder Dreadnaught as opposed to the more squared-off configuration of the Hummingbird or Dove. And it also has holes drilled in the top for Volume/Tone pots and a magnetic pickup where the fretboard ends, just before the sound hole. The electronic adds dampen the acoustic sound IMO, because you typically don't want to drill holes into the soundboard, I mean you already have 6 for the string pins. But the J-160E is a pretty piece, that excels in Live performance situations!
Hey man, I have watched your old PT videos and THEY ARE GREAT! I am wondering, are you open to requests? I know me saying, "Hey! Play some...!" is not your bag nor, is it mine but, if requests are acceptable, could you do "Alex Chilton" by The Replacements? If I see you do it, I can learn it better than if someone were to teach it to me. All I know about the guitar parts in the song is that it is in an E6-esque tuning. Thanks brother, TSS
Yeah, I have a j45 that's obviously mahogany back and sides, absolutely love it. It definitely has a different tone though, vs the hummingbird. The lows from the rosewood on the d35 are way more pronounced. Anyway, love to own them both!
I don't normally comment, but if you ever have the desire I'm sure a good number of your subscribers would love to see more straight up talk about guitars in your collection. I enjoyed this one.
This hummingbird sounds astonishing. So much deep in the sound. I absolutely love it. And the look of it is amazing
Was in the Marines 1973. Stationed in Memphis. Nothing to do but electronics school and hanging out at the bars after work. One Saturday I walk into the PX look at some albums. Nearby against the wall are 3 guitars. All are knock offs. One sort of looks like a Washburn, another is sort of a violin type, and the other is an Ensenada Hummingbird. Tried all 3 and the Hummingbird sounded the best by far and had the easiest action. Couldn't buy it though because I thought it was a girls guitar. I just knew that because it had the pretty pickguard it was made for girls (figured like clothes they get the pretty colors in guitars). I know, pretty dumb. I go back to the barracks and for the first time someone is playing a guitar in it. I walk around a bunch of room dividers made up of lockers and there he is. A big 6'2" strapping made-for-television poster-boy Marine playing that "girls guitar." He nods at me and he keeps playing. I run back to the PX praying that imitation Hummingbird is available. It is and I buy it. I run back to the barracks (all in about 25 minutes) and look for that Marine hoping he will show me a few chords. He's not there. I figure I'll see him, I mean it's a barracks, where's he going to go? I never see him again and I get hooked on playing guitar. For the next 6 months or so I can't put it down and drive everybody nuts. It's like a drug. Then I get better. I meet friends with it. Later I court a special girl with it. She was real good looking, real nice, and at that time I didn't make much dough. A guy needs a trick, something special to land a girl like that (lots of competition). That girl is now my wife of 33 years. Anyway, been in a few music groups, play with friends, and (wisely) still court my wife with it from time to time. Anyhow back to the Marines. Over the next couple years I never saw someone come in with an instrument except that one guy for just those few minutes. I swear if there are angels, that Marine I saw was an angel. Sometimes I get real cynical about people and then I remember that Marine and I know there is magic in this world. Anyhow .....that's my Hummingbird story.
I like that story man. Isn’t it strange how mildly angels can drive an important point home, whether we notice or not? Glad you noticed
Great story, fellow comrade. Your post enabled me to recall several 70s/80s pop rock hits that other Sailors had shared in A school, the Squadron and overseas deployments. Thank you for serving our country.
Hummingbird is the guitar Keith Richards from the stones used in fact many early English bands used Gibson hummingbirds.
...great story !...and yes i own a Custom Hummingbird that my best friend gifted me ....so yes angels do exist ..
Awesome story. Yes, Angels are real and he may have been one. Look at how that guitar changed your life. Thanks for the experience and keep on playing.
I am sooo glad you opened this channel and didn't give up the ghost just yet. I subscribed to you a little over a year after you started the PT Channel and was blown away by you're talent and you're ability to teach songs. You have been and still are one of the best on UA-cam man. I know i am not the only person to say this but THANK YOU , Thank you for all of the Fantastic Videos over the years and Thank You for *Even in current Bad Times* Making UA-cam a Brighter place with each video you post. Thank You.
I have a Korean-made knock off of the Dove made by Pan in, or about, 1972-73. I have had it since I was 17 as it was an early birthday gift from my mom when I was turning 18. It was $125 new and has been a trusted friend for many years. I appreciate your channel very much.
Thanks for that. Never heard a side-by-side comparison. Enjoying the new channel. And you seem to be having fun again. Bravo. Keep 'em coming...
Thank you for all the vids. I really enjoy this guitar spot you have created. I hope you leave the old vids up, as many of us are just scratching the surface of all the cool stuff that lives there. As Keith says "it's as fresh as the day you laid it down" Looking forward to being a regular here on the new channel. Again....much thanks
The past year you have brought my passion for playing guitar back into my life. Prior to 2010 I had a great time living the life as a musician for many years and had an injury also some unfortunate events even lost all interest to play ever again and now I credit you for helping me find music again. Love my Gibson Songwriter Deluxe EC. Always wanted either a Dove or Hummingbird. Maybe soon I will have one in my home. In the meantime Great videos, and great lessons :)
Just picked up my first Hummingbird, and frankly, my first investment in a good acoustic..
Also, very much appreciate this channel, and your previous one, they taught me a lot.. 🙂
Great comparison between two wonderful instruments. Every guitar is a miracle of enjoyment and fun. Thank you!
Good informative comparison. I have a 1968 Dove which I've owned for 48 years and a 1990's dove. Both sound great the old one has a narrower neck and much heavier and real tortoise shell pick guard. I'm about to buy a humming bird as I want the whole set. Lol.
So your video was useful to know what difference to expect thanks.
Cheers Phil
Beautiful Axes. Love that you made a new channel and didn't just stop making vids. Rock on dude.
Still go back to your videos. Hope you're still playing and doing well. Thanks for everything!
James James - the man is back! Would never have put you as 46 - I'd have said late 20s! Great job as I'm looking at the Epi dove and hummer at the mo. Am also looking at some of the Japanese versions from the lawsuit days. Good to see you continue as your posts are a goldmine for those of us who want/need a 'straight up how to nail it' guide. Cheers from sunny Thailand
Stop making me buy guitars
Tony Wilson if you have to many, I'd be happy to keep some of yours. cuz I can't afford them anyways :D
I have this meme someone sent me, Wife is beating this guy in the head while he sits playing guitar & the caption says "Why are you looking at nother guitar, you have 12 already, why can't you be like a normal Husband & watch porn". lol
@@jettramel *feels* : D
I bought a Hummingbird but now I need a J-200.
PT: Saw many of your vids. Nice job. You have definitely provided a service to thousands of people. Like you said ,there is a big difference between now and 15 years ago on You Tube. It's like American Idol now. Everyone has an opinion and we know about those , right! People are so rude , unkind , all for themselves and don't really care about feelings. The certain Generation that still lives in their parents‘ basement don't have any compassion or know the definition of empathy .What goes around comes around. Good luck with your new channel. Thank you.
Whats the year of your Dove Model? I love the sunburst color.
Really cool video. Love the guitar talk. I'm looking forward to seeing more videos from your new channel! Thanks and go Sabres!
Knowing how much you love your guitars would you have any recommendations in relation to purchasing a hummingbird ? I’ve heard some horror stories about the new ones but I have wanted one for many years.
Hello James James. In a guitar store some years ago, I was able to make this comparison/contrast between the Hummingbird and Dove and can agree with you on the two. Another guitar that I sampled was the Gibson Country Western. The sound is completely different. The CW looks a lot like the Hbird only with the blonde top and has a deeper tone than the Dove. The sound of the CW was a bit muddled whereas the other two had better sound definition between the strings. It is as if each string has its own place where the sound exits the sound hole. The CW that I sampled sounded as if the strings were clumped and murky. It may have been just a quirk in that one guitar.
When I first found your former channel I thought that your work was right on. Now, after seeing this Hummingbird and Dove video, you went several rungs higher on the "cool and groovy" ladder.
I love my Hbird. It is a 65 cherry sunburst. Your videos save a lot of time for me. Thanx. Keep up the good work. Jed
One of the primary differences between the Dove and the Hummingbird goes unmentioned here, scale length. The hummingbird has the shorter scale length (like the slope shouldered Gibson dreads - 24.75"), while the Dove has a long scale length (25.5").
Glad to see you are back. I have been following you for some time and have enjoyed your lessons. Sorry you had to put up with the bull previously. Rock on.......
Great explanation. I had about 70 stringed instruments 10 years ago and now have about 30. I've 4-5 Doves 4-5 Hummingbirds and 4-5 J 200s. I also have a variety of Guild J30-J 50 & 55 and d50's all from Rhoade Island. Don't know if they're from the 70's. I love the guild J30-12 string. Best 12 string for the buck. I've got a real odd Dove with a tune-o-matic (electric ) style bridge. and some Montana Specials. Your explanation about the voice of mahogany and maple was great . Love the new stuff!
Hey James James, I know this video is old, but my collection is just catching up to yours. I was wondering what year your Dove is. I just bought a 1989, the first year of production from Bozeman. It's a tobacco burst, much like yours, and I don't see many of these.
That one was from the mid-80s. My current Dove is from 1997, one of the Custom Shop models called a Dove in Flight.
Beautiful guitars. It's nice to hear the difference between them, and it's nice and informative to hear you talk about the different wood, and when the Stones used which guitar, etc. Thanks for the info! Gibsons really have that 60's sound and they are my favorites, but alas they are currently not in my budget. I am going to get an Epiphone Limited Edition 1964 Texan. It's about as close as I can get to that Gibson sound, lol. Do you know that guitar?
Can you do comparison between Dove and J-200 ?
Thanks!
Glad to see you are back on UA-cam!
These two guitars (as well as Martin D-41) are my dream acoustic guitars. Someday I'll get them :)
Such a nice touch you have on the acoustics. Do you prefer medium or light gauge strings on the Dove and Hummingbird?
As always a great video James and i like the Sabres shirt. I lived in Buffalo for a while 😃
Unintented "good luck" in the end ? For those who would want to emulate a gibson sound on their own guitars ?
Great video. Is there enough difference between your Goldtop & Burst Standards to do a similar video? I know those 57 classics in the goldtop have a really nice growl to them.
I bought a new Hummingbird. I noticed that some of the braces were stamped "Hummingbird / Dove". So I suspect dimensions of the bodies are the same, but the scale length on Dove is 25.5, HB 24.75. I wonder what they do with neck? Is the neck longer? Or the bridge positioned farther down the body?
How to make Gravy. Good one JJ.
Epiphone Doves and HB's? How do you rate them?
Philby62 I've never played Epiphones.
awesome, watching your old vids inspired me to get my 2011 Hummingbird Artist. Love this guitar. And as a sidebar, really respect your reasons for switching to the new channel, couldn't agree more. Thanks for all your time and vids, dude.
hey, david nathan perlow! I'm a fan.
They both sound amazing ..I know you have a bunch of different Gibson acoustics but have you ever played an old (60s)J45? They have a warmer tone than the Dove or H-bird but don't sound quite as full I don't think . I have a choice right now between a 1964 J45 and a newer (1980) tobacco burst Dove similar to yours and am very conflicted ! I wonder what year your Dove is ? I'll bet it is newer ,early 2000s?
Hi
I am curious if you have tried the Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze strong strings on either of your acoustics? I just tried them (medium light), and I found they added a brightness to my guitar ( Hummingbird), that is rather enjoyable. If you try them, would really enjoy hearing your opinion. Thanks
charles schwartz I honestly have no idea what strings I've used. I'm not loyal to any brand, I just buy whatever's on sale.
JJ/PT you have an amazing collection of guitars. Not only do I very much enjoy you videos - I really like seeing the various guitars which you use. I enjoy your old channel and this one as well. Just listened to the Rolling Stones "Last Time" on your Hummingbird.
What kind of strings do you use on your Hummingbird? Sounds great! I like the Gibson 80/20s and John Pearse Pure Nickel. By the way I played a maple Hummingbird and it was a knockout. Have heard walnut ones too and they just incredible!!
I just have to echo Rick Quimby's comments, I am truly saddened by your final vid as private tricker there are some complete mugs out there. I've so enjoyed your contributions, I can't thank you enough, best of luck to you what ever you decide to do in the future.
Gibsons are a bit pricey for me so what do you think of an Epiphone Dove. Do you think I should go with an expensive guitar or just a regular 300 dollar guitar.
Very interesting. I have to say though... That hummingbird sounds fantastic to me! The quality of the sound on that one far surpasses the quality of my playing, but I still want one. Thanks for the demo.
Hi! Wow, you have so many guitars...It seems like some guitars records really well, which model would you recommend for live recording?
Oh, and the chair? I am from Sweden, looks like a Swedish design classic Lilla Åland, or?
Great video on two great guitars. I don't recall if you do too much finger picking style (I guess Doc Watson would be the closest style), but which one of these guitars would suit that style better that the other, or would there be another model that you prefer or would recommend? They both sound great for strumming, and the differences in sustain are very noticeable. Thanks.
I do more fingerpicking than regular strumming with a pick, actually. For fingerpicking, I like a Martin.
What gauge strings do you normally run on your acoustics? I dont think you have mentioned it before in the comments. I find that custom-lights (.11 i believe) on my J-35 are just right.
Josh Stenger Usually, it's .13's for my acoustics.
Hey there: watched your video on the dove vs hummingbird. I have a 1990 hummingbird, I think made soon after the move to Bozeman, Mt. Mine was done up with the natural top and red back/sides. It actually has the vintage "green" tuners which I always liked. I had a Fishman transducer installed. Unfortunately the little bird has worn away on mine also. Gibson won't sell you a new pick guard. As I inquired. Aftermarket guards are not as thick.
Speaking about the stones I wonder what they used for under my thumb?
Great stuff - gotta say the Hummingbird sounds awesome here
Wow I know this was a while ago but I learned a lot here. Thanks for everything James!
Awesome, love hearing talk about guitars. Giving your two cents/ comparisons/ thoughts/ artists that use them/ songs... whatever.
Thanks for that, would love to see more like this on your collection
Hay James, personally I love your Martin. But in ur Angie lesson the dove sound so so good, how I love nice guitars ) maybe sometime you could do a lesson on the stones, miss you ? Thks
I have a 2006 Hummingbird southpaw in cherry sunburst with quilted mahogany back and sides, built by the Gibson Custom Shop. It's drop dead gorgeous to the eye. But for D-size tone, I much prefer my D-41 L and my Gibson Songwriter Deluxe L cutaway. Love videos that compare different guitars. Thanks.
PT, I'm a victim of the economy. I did settle on a $800.00 Alvarez. This does the job because the soundboard is one solid flat piece instead of layers of laminate. Eventually I'd love to get that Everley bros. mdl you have in your stable...
Love the new site and honored to have you for my teacher ...
Enjoyed hearing your experiences with your acoustics. Thanks!
Hey man, I just created a google account so that I could subscribe to your channel so that I could say "Thank You" for all the great videos you posted as Privettricker. I was so sad to watch your last video. All I can is "haters gonna hate". I find your videos to be totally unselfish, totally professional and the most accurate I've seen anywhere on the internet. And damn you can play! Please keep on! I'm always impressed and thankful. Peace!
nothing to say more!
A friend gave me a 1976 Hummingbird that his friend at church had given him. It was beat to hell though. The body was intact but cracked and everything was very worn. It had the deeper, more resonant sound that I like, but it was too hard for me to play. A few years later, the original owner asked if I would trade it back to him, so I got one of those 1985 MIJ Telecasters from him. I have never looked back, as I absolutely love the Tele, which I generally keep tuned to Open G for playing Stones stuff. I eventually got an all-mahogany Martin D-15. It doesn't have the deep rumble of the Hummingbird, but it is not bright by any means (which I like).
I love this video. Could you try to do one on the Les Paul Standard vs. The Les Paul Custom I've been going back and forth for awhile. Thanks and keep doing what your doing I'am sure this channel will be just as good as the old one.
Insightful stuff. It would seem appropriate now if you did another similar video with the three les pauls that you own, as I (and i'm sure many others) sometimes really find it hard to hear differences in similar electric guitar models
Two very nice guitars. I have heard the dove bridge called the mustache bridge. How is the hummingbird vs j-200
Hi Walter. This is not the guy in the video, who is a good guitarist. I have a Hummigbird and a J-200, both 2014 models. I used to own a 1990 J-200 (which I liked better). The Hummingbird is great, but the J-200 is superior in my opinion, deeper, louder, even prettier. The Hum is GREAT, and now I'm trying to get a Dove, but the J200 is the best.
I agree.
I've got a Guild D-55, cannon, heavy, outstanding in double-dropped D, I can feel the resonance in my chest when I play. My first really good guitar.
What guitar were you using for the "Old Laughing Lady" lesson, it's very glittery.
Jim Barnett That's a Martin D41.
It's a really beautiful guitar. What year is it? My fathers 1930 Martin was hijacked by my sister after dads passing, I hope to see it again soon, it was left to me by him, but I haven't seen it in 11 years. Wish me luck.
Jim Barnett I bought it new in 2006, one of the only guitars I've ever bought new.
Ha ha that's just like me, I've owned probably a dozen basses but just bought my first new one about two years ago. I tend to gravitate to the older stuff anyway. I still own my first car, my first amp, my first hi-fi. It's good stuff, no sense getting rid of it just because it has some years under its belt.
I know this is old but, which one do prefer the hummingbird, dove or SJ200?
Hey James, what camera are you using? I'd like to record some covers myself but my camera is really cheap and it doesn't have a good microphone.
the dove has a deeper sound , love them . great vid
Thanks for the comparison...very helpful...I bought a hummingbird and wish I held out for the dove....but I do enjoy my hummingbird!
nice vid PT, I've got the same HB, had always wanted one since seeing one permanently fixed to KR's hand on all those Nelcotte shots! do love the look, feel and sound of it..definitely one of my most treasured and used possessions! that dove is a lovely looking and sounding guitar too btw!
PT - oops, James - that was pretty cool thanks for demonstrating the difference. Quick question, what kind of strings do you use and what weight? I have a Martin and a Taylor but I had a Guild in high school, back in the dark ages, and probably should get another one or a Gibson - love the sound. Thanks,
Bob
Have you been selling some of your guitars since the collection video 2 years ago?
Or has the collection just been growing ever since?
E Man I don't sell any of them. I've given a couple away, though.
is there any particular place you get your guitars from? i was asking if you happen to get them online, how can you guarantee that the guitar you order will be what is expected when you play it for the first time? there was just one time that i bought a guitar online and it didnt arrive at my place in the condition i thought it would. and the guitar shops in my area dont have for example gibson hummingbirds or doves, or ricks etc.
I get them wherever I find a good deal. I'm not particularly hung up on whether I've actually played it before I bought it, because I don't have much trouble getting a guitar to sound the way I want it to sound (sometimes that requires a trip to the luthier). And I know a lot of players are picky about the feel of the neck and all that, but I'm not hung up on that stuff. Hand me a guitar and I'll play it.
James James
And if it's a Gibson, it'll be great anyway, isn't it? :)
JJ, funny you bring up 70's era Guilds, those are my weak spot. I have 6 plus some other rigs. my favorite is my G37, maple sides and maple. Arched back. I've been so impressed with your J200 I've been watching them on eBay. Which brings me to my question, having never had the chance to play one myself I'm afraid of getting a "lemon". Have you can ever come across one like that( speaking of a J200)? I'm watching a 1977 Guild F50 maple right now on eBay.
hi jj thanks for the comparison. I mentioned a few months ago that I had bought a very nice j160e, a 1964 original, 3 years ago. With you playing so many early Beatles tunes, have you ever thought of getting one or you don't like having the electrics on a acoustic. Also i know you say you don't sing very well, the same as me. i know you play by ear but for someone like me that is just learning how to play, would you suggest that i learn the words of the song as i learn the music? would you say that would make learning the chords and chord changes any easier? looking forward to you new channel. thank you very much. p.s. watch your big river vid a while back where you said it might be your favourite song!. it's in my top 3 thanks again
I always loved Doves for recording with, especially when the song isn't acoustic driven and just needs an acoustic guitar to sit in the mix. I always found to just put a good mic with the right mic placement infront of the Dove and it really needs very little work to sit in the mix.
I agree completely.
which is better, the ones with a built in pickup, or a one that you mic'd
Great video. I really like this type of A/B comparisons. You could really hear the sustain differences. I'm sort of the opposite - I like a ton of sustain and overtones and "extra stuff" and I could really hear the differences.
JJ
I'm close to getting a Dove to go with the Bird the 45 and L4A
Haven't talked to you in a while, we talked about this a few years ago back in PT
Hope your doing well
The finish on that Dove is amazing.
Do you have a taylor ? I would love a comparison between any taylor and a j200 gibson..
FuzzballToday I've owned a Taylor before, but I don't have it any more.
Interesting comparison. The taylor 614 and 814 have similar differences. I have a D28 and now choosing between 814 and Hummingbird for second. So very different but both are beautiful
looking to buy humingbird or j45 both on sale for 1800 at MF what is your opinion spruce top mahogony back and sides both
Finally an answer to this question! I went for the dove and love it! Cheers
I know Martins look a lot more plain, but which has better sound and tone for the same priced high end guitars?
That's like asking if chocolate is "better" than vanilla. It's not a matter of which one's better, it's a matter of which one you prefer.
I got an epiphone hummingbird pro, its what I could afford (but do have a proper telecaster) and don't know whats going on. Even basic things I could do are now a struggle, having to pin chords down hard and play a lot less sloppy. My question is ....is it worse on a proper one?
David Mainwaring Have you had the Epi professionally set up?
First check the action at the nut and fret. Make sure they match the FACTORY measurements. If they do and your hands still hurt then it must be the fretboard radius kicking in. Idk what the radius is so it may just be the action.
Not had it set up professionally, action seems ok, if I move a capo around its not always in tune in different places. I just thought it was a bit unforgiving as I been used to cheapo acoustics. It was the display model so I figured the shop had set it up to play and sound its best. Maybe should get the neck looked at properly?
Yeah I completely forgot about the truss rod. It makes a huge difference in comfort
I've had an Epi Hummingbird Pro for about 8 months. I do my own setups and haven't had any playability issues. In fact, I raised the action a touch when I got it. Great guitar -love it.
You could try a lighter gauge of strings, maybe? Tough to say, but mine plays very easily. A setup is probably all you need, and will probably make a huge difference.
Thanks so much for your comment about your preference for no sustain on acoustic guitars. I feel validated. I have expressed the same opinion to other players, only to get a lot of "rolled eyes" and "snickers" With acoustics, sometimes the sustain gets in the way.
Thanks. I just started playing again after 40+ years. It took me a long time to decode on a guitar because of my short stubby hands.
I had started with an ukulele 2 years ago for the narrow neck but could not get the depth of sound for some particular songs I wanted. I then went to a Walkabout Dulcimer which I absolutely love. The narrow neck and rich sound are great. I started jamming and some were complaining that I didn't play guitar and could not follow my hands for the chords. The only drawback I found was it is diatonic and not chromatic so I went guitar shopping.
I found the Martin 000-28 modified v neck to be a great fit for my hand and short fingers and the body was a tad more narrow then the full body Dreadnought and kept my arm from getting sore and or numb. Needless to say I could not spend the tag money for that guitar. I found a Washburn with the 3/4 corner on the top side that keeps my arm from going numb. Now a new problem has come up. Carpal tunnel is nocking back my playing time. I'm concern the neck I ended up with on the Washburn WCG25SCE Comfort Series Grand Auditorium Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural could be the problem. Doing exercises for the hand and wearing a compression glove at night. Anyone here have a advice? Comment that migh be helpful?
Try lowering the action.
I'll try that- thanks
CTS can be caused by gripping and squeezing. The neck itself is probably not the issue, but you should look into making the guitar as easy to play as possible. Lower action, lighter gauge strings, tuning down to Eb; all could possibly help. I always tell my students to work on developing as light a touch as possible. Hope this helps, and good luck.
One further note: Dove has the large headstock. Wider. I like that look better but I think it's only on the J200 and the Dove. Perhaps it might be on some of the older L's, L5, L7. I'll have to check yours out on one of the videos. Right now Dove was about three hundred more than std HB, but about the same as the Cherry-Quilted-Maple-HB's they have out there for sale now. Very nice looking guitars.
Whatdo you think of Epiphone Casino?
PT/James, what gauge strings do you use on your acoustics...?
If there was one person you'd think of who plays a Gibson Dove, well, at least I do. Tom Petty (Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers). It's even seen in music videos, such as "Letting You Go" (1981- Hard Promises) and "Free Fallin'" (1989-Full Moon Fever). Most of The Heartbreakers' songs (the music) were written using that guitar.
Tom even managed to save the guitar after someone set fire to his house in 1987. He rebuilt the house using fireproof materials. Cool piece of history with those guitars. Hummingbird and Dove still remain classic square-shouldered dreadnought from the 60's.
This was really cool. I would love to see a video with your thoughts on the Tele vs Strat vs Les Paul.
im trying to decide between a j-185 or a hummingbird, both great tough choice
Maybe I got lucky but I bought a HB copy made in Japan about 40 years ago and it is wonderful to play and hear.
The make is Columbus.
Like I say I may have got lucky with woods, setup, etc. but I'd say they are worth the punt if you can't afford the real thing.
How much the price both of the guitar in USA?
You can get a good idea of the street price on eBay and Reverb.
Thanks you guys. I eventually tweaked the truss rod and I couldn't believe the colossal difference a half turn could make. Now it sounds better and my fingers are having fun as is my thumb. Think i need to tweak it back a little, low E just buzzes on couple of notes. Believe me its changed the way i feel about this guitar i can pick it up and get straight into it
Sir, the 'sustain' on a guitar does not come much from the wood used, but, the heights, lengths, and widths of the braces underneath the soundboard - in other words - how the braces are 'tuned'.
The bracing on those two guitars is virtually identical. Regardless, the tone woods used in a guitar clearly affect sustain.
Yes, Mr. James, but that affect is much less than how the braces are tuned or shapet, which is the principle design/ manipulative feature that affects every aspect of the sound, other than the bridge. In fact, so important is the height and width of braces that you can set them in such a way as the sustain will shake and quiver, and never seem to go away - no matter what the woods is on the back and sides.
How does this compare to John and George's J-160E?
Gibson's J-160E use a lot by Lennon is similar in woods used to the Hummingbird, Mahogany Back/Sides with Spruce top, but it is a Sloped Shoulder Dreadnaught as opposed to the more squared-off configuration of the Hummingbird or Dove. And it also has holes drilled in the top for Volume/Tone pots and a magnetic pickup where the fretboard ends, just before the sound hole. The electronic adds dampen the acoustic sound IMO, because you typically don't want to drill holes into the soundboard, I mean you already have 6 for the string pins. But the J-160E is a pretty piece, that excels in Live performance situations!
Great discussion and illustration of the tonewoods. Thanks
Hey man, I have watched your old PT videos and THEY ARE GREAT! I am wondering, are you open to requests? I know me saying, "Hey! Play some...!" is not your bag nor, is it mine but, if requests are acceptable, could you do "Alex Chilton" by The Replacements? If I see you do it, I can learn it better than if someone were to teach it to me. All I know about the guitar parts in the song is that it is in an E6-esque tuning. Thanks brother,
TSS
Where does the Country & Western fall between these guitars?
Nice, that Hummingbird sounds gorgeous, I like this kind of guitar nerd videos
My 2004 Hummingbird is natural cloud maple sides & back with natural spruce top and a strip down the back and I love it.
Yeah, I have a j45 that's obviously mahogany back and sides, absolutely love it. It definitely has a different tone though, vs the hummingbird. The lows from the rosewood on the d35 are way more pronounced. Anyway, love to own them both!