@@landonbaileyYes there are just amazing acoustics for the money.. I also have an electric piano that just sounds and plays fantastic.. BTW have you ever tried one of their basses? My first bass was a Yamaha fretless made in Indonesia,.. Bought it at least 20 years ago and it still plays like a charm.. In my book, Yamaha makes the best bang for the buck in the industry for the bass.. Especially the TBRX Serie... In any event everything they touch: amps, guitars, bass, keyboards, trumpets, drums you name it, even at the entry level is usually unbeatable quality for the money..
@@BedeLaplumeThey have some serious competition now in the bang for the buck arena, e.g. Cort Indonesia, and Yamaha QC has fallen of over recent years (FACT), but Yamaha Indonesia do make unbeatable value guitars, and when you get a one that's up to their standard according to lore, it fits your accolade to a "T". Case in point. Among other brands e.g Ibanez, Cort, 4 Pacificas, 2 Revstars, 2 APX e-acoustics & a TRBX bass owned here. That's 9 Yamaha guitars, all purchased NEW within the past five years , all Yamaha Indonesia. Hasn't all been QC OOTB plain sailing, but sorted eventually. The intention is still there, but BQ & QC is inconsistent in application IMPE. Would I buy another Yamaha? Yes, but I'm not brand blind.
@@theblytonian3906I see your point. As you mention, Cort is a strong and fierce competitor. I've heard, they actually manufacture all the Schecter guitars.. My fretless bass dates from the early 2000 or late 90's. It was kind of their first Indonesian factory and I am really satisfied with the overall QC of it.. Actually I am really happy with all of the Indonesian made guitars I've bought and tried so far.. One Of them being an Ibanez AS93.. Awesome semi hollow..
@@BedeLaplume Concur. Cort are OEM manufacturer for a range of famous brands including models for the PRS brand. I have a Cort Manson collaboration Stage Series Classic TC, and it's a seriously GREAT guitar which ranks up there with the best custom shop from Fender AFAIC. Yamaha Japan would be proud to put its brand on it. I would have gone with Cort for my bass, but the specific model I wanted wasn't available, so went with the Yamaha TRBX. More than equally happy. Combination of quality and unbeatable bang for the buck I also own an Ibanez AS93FM. I experienced similar aesthetic BQ QC issues with Ibanez Indonesia as with Yamaha though. When you get 'the good one' it's an absolutely fabulous guitar. I would have liked a Yamaha SA2200, but wasn't prepared to spend triple the price on the SA2200's MIJ price tag.
This is the sharpest looking Yamaha Pacifica I've ever seen. Love the color along with the pickguard and the metal cover on the humbucker. Almost thought it was one of those prestige Ibanez AZ models when I first saw it.
I have a 112V from 2007-8 with a natural color, matt finish. The thing about matt or satin finishes is that they don't stay matt for too long if you play them a lot or even at all. The arm rest area especially gets polished up by the playing. Satin finish Revstars are also like that. It is cool way for way for the finish to wear, though! It's a kind of reverse relicing!
The Matt finish will wear shiny, as does a deglossed neck, in time. The frets look medium jumbo, a size which varies enormously between guitars fitted with medium jumbo frets.
I have 2 Yamaha Pacifica PAC112j's and they are amazing!!! One of them is my version of a Tom Delonge Strat in an Orange and the other one is a tribute to my first car which I still drive in a brown with gold racing stripe along the arm contour!!!
I own 20 guitars, Fenders Gibson's Schecter, LSL, PRS, Hamer etc. One guitar stands out and that's a Yamaha Ty Tybor guitar I literally found in a Skip outside a junk store and paid £50 for it. It was covered in concrete and dust and had two strings on it at the time. I brought it back to life and it's basically my second favourite instrument. Great neck, super tones and plays extremely well. If youve heard Kings X then you get the idea. Currently looking for another one so if your letting one go let me know!
@@tomaslopez2940 it would have been around then I bought mine, Artist model, incredible bookmatched flamed maple top. Seymour Duncan Seth Lover PAF's, great sound, semi solid, mahogany body/neck. Poly finish which is my only gripe about the instrument. If there was an inexpensive way to remove the finish and give it a matt nitro lacquer I'd do it!
@@djw8133 Yeah I bought a black XT archtop in 2013 and it’s still one of my best guitars. I’m hoping that adding a Floyd Rose FRX will give it some new life eventually
Yamaha has always made excellent everything from Trumpets, motorcycle’s, keyboards, stereos, guitars. I personally just don’t like the looks of them compared to a squier or fender. With that said, I may still have to get one just because they seem that good.
Yeah... I sold my mother-in-law's old Yamaha trumpet for her. We got a fortune for it. She was only expecting to get $100. We got $850. And my Yamaha tape deck is awesome, as is my SG1000 guitar. My mum had a Yamaha baby grand piano which she had for years. She traded it in at a Steinway dealer towards a Steinway - which was pretty much the only possible upgrade.
I'm the opposite. Dislike the Fender Strat aesthetic which looks like a a prototype the designer never got around to finishing, particularly that bulbous headstock. Yamaha got the proportions and everything else right with their Pacifica.
Hello! I am from Greece and I can say that You are the first ( ... and only ... ) reviewer that I 've seen measure a guitar with electronic instruments (weight, dimensions etc...) and also show to us the inside (electronics thus quality!!!) !!! Exceptional !!! It is as we where there "knowing" the guitar !!! Consider me a big fan from now on! Congrats! P.S. I always loved Pacifica so I hope that you consider a GiveAway ... ( they are very expensive in Greece because of the dealer...) .
Love everything about that guitar, except for one very important thing… the super narrow 40mm nut width. When you have big fingers like me, the strings are just too close together on Pacifica guitars.
I had a Yamaha semi-hollow E335 type back in the 90's in honey sunburst - beautiful guitar, in all ways. Presently own a Yamaha THX-10 amp, and a Yammie trumpet. Great products. You can't really go wrong with anything Yamaha.
I love my Yamaha acoustic guitar. I received it as a birthday gift about 46 years ago. Still sounds great & stays in tune well. Excellent quality and craftsmanship.
That's about when I got mine too. Beautiful, excellent craftsmanship but currently at my daughter's house 2K miles away. No one is playing it. I'm going to bring it home next visit.
Regarding the longevity of satin-finish paint: I have a Yamaha BroadBass that has a neck painted satin black. The paint has worn to a gloss over time with use. There is a version of this bass with the body also painted satin black, and I understand that it also wears to a gloss with use.
I have the natural color of this same guitar and I love it. It is one of my favorite guitars to play. I really love that matte blue one and May have to get that one now😀
Did you find that it would stay in tune after using the trem? One of my biggest peeves with my squire right now is how it goes a quater step out of tune after using the trem.
I have an older EG112C. Played it a lot in a blues-rock band, very versatile and sounded better than "OK". At blues jams, most people would choose to play my Yamaha over the much-more-expensive SRV that was available. Even the really good players couldn't believe it was an inexpensive Yamaha. That was good enough for me.
I have 1 too! I found it at a swap meet and paid 45 bucks for it. I love it! I put a loaded pick guard with kiesel pick ups. Sounds like any other well made professional guitar ❤
You can not beat the price point Yamaha is producing guitars of this quality at. I have 4…the leader being the Pac611vfm. Duncan’s,Grover locking tuners, Wilkinson trem…it’s the Strat Killer Fender should take notes
I own a Yamaha Revstar 620 and it is still the best guitar I own. Though given that I don't own the custom-level guitar builds that major manufacturers offer.
I would make one small improvement. Change the small pots for large. Nothing else. Have that done and a professional set up and you could literally spend 3 times the money and not get a better guitar.
I have a matt black 'vintage' (the jhs brand) from the early 2000's. Over time the contact areas of the guitar (neck, top, just below the bridge pick up) has worn to a shiny, very smooth finish. So nice and quick to play, and only took many years of effort
To answer your question about the wears of a matte finish guitar. You will later find some spot looking shiny/greasy. This is definitely obvious at the parts where you scratch/touch the guitar the most.
Yamaha appears to have made a pro level guitar at a reasonable price. I think Yamaha electrics have not been as popular as they are in other countries. I think people associate Yamaha with beginner Spanish guitars. I would love to have this style guitar When you went to the second switch position if it would give me single coil bridge and middle and not humbucker and middle. Ever heard of one like that?
Not sure if you encountered this yet, but after my Flame red Pacifica 612 got it's first string change, the strings would start clicking at the nut whenever you use the bar. Just a heads up. Other than that, the Pacifica is a fantastic instrument! The only serious downside is finding one of these! I ordered my Pacifica in March 2021 and got it in May 2022! Even after they announced a new line of Revstars earlier this year, I still haven't seen many Yamaha electrics in my local guitar shops.
@@landonbaileyupdate: I’ve noticed the more often the guitar is played, the less likely the nut is to creak. I guess the strings need to be used often for the self lubricating nut to lubricate. I love this guitar, and I’m hoping to add the Revstar one day!
Nice Review Landon. Pacifica's are quite underrated... especially for their price point... from Great Beginner Guitars in the lower models to these Superb Playing 600 series. Good Pickups and Variations thereof throughout and their build quality and feel is well beyond their $ Value. I currently don't have one in my collection but have had my eye on the 600's for a while. Great Gigging guitar if you don't want to risk trashing your overpriced Fender!
Yes. The Seymour Duncan pickups were very uneven in output- the bass string pole on the humbucker needed screwing down a load and the neck pickup was uneven output, the trem was a job to intonate. Sold it for a give away price. Oh yes I almost forgot- the frets needed very badly smoothing. All together a surprising experience as other Yamaha I'd had in the past were good.
Yep. And, like black even in gloss, they show up every finger mark and handling smudge as if neon illuminated. However at least with a gloss finish, those marks can be wiped away.
I have had five Stratocaster’s. I have zero now, I just never bond with them. I have had three Pacificas.. I keep upgrading from a 012, 112, 312, I sold them all because now I want a611. For me, they are better than a Stratocaster. They are faster.. I like my Schecter blackjack better than a Strat. I like my Ibanez 370 way better than a Strat.. the last 30 years, every Stratocaster I buy or swap for ends up sitting in the case after the first month until I sell or swap it. They’re good guitars, I never use the center pick up. I never really figured out why it has two tone controls. I like the ones with the SSH set up better then the ones with three single coils..I’m just not crazy about them
Great demo Landon thanks! I never noticed how the body is slightly off-set. Love the shape of it. I also like the pickguard and how it looks different to a strat and doesn't cover the bridge pickup. The fretboard has a lot of figuring for rosewood! Sounds great too! Had my eye on the new Yamaha revstar with p90s (which has carbon fiber rod going through the neck).
Hey, cheers! I got myself a Green/Pearly Shield one from the PAC612VIIX series. Is it possible to safely fix the tremolo bar? It's a bit loose and it seems to me that I'd need to take my bridge off to tighten it up a bit. Please tell me it's easier than that haha. Anyway, great review, great job! Cheers!
Nice review! First time i've seen ya wham the trem, that's how the cool kids say it. Seriously I think you were having a good time with this one for sure and feeling a little inspired. I've never even picked one up before but now I want to so you'll have to live with that on your conscience.
I absolutely love Yamaha! Ya like Yawn , not Ya like Yeah. Just do you as they say , but I'm a yawn guy. 😎 I've been a Yamaha fan for about 50 of my 58 years. Drums , keyboards, motorcycles and guitars of course. I have 2 Yamaha guitars in the collection that I will have till I die. My cousin used to work at Yamaha Music in Grand Rapids Michigan in the late 70's and early 80's. Now you gotta check out a Revstar!!! A quality company 100%! Peace from Southwest Michigan. 🎸🎶🎵🧠🌌♾⚡🇺🇸🇨🇦
The suffix VIIX isn't intended to represent any Roman numeral. Pacifica Suffix codes. V denotes vibrato bridge, II (double II as in the Roman numeral for 2) AFAIK implies generation two in this instance, its deployment appears specific to the Pacifica 612V although Yamaha are inconsistent in how they include that in a suffix. i.e. more frequently the suffix //02 is found in the code on the box in the instance of other models Revstar, C40 and appears to denote a significant change to the model other than design e.g. typically, change to a different body wood, X in the suffix as such denotes a limited edition. And of course, the last three letters of any Yamaha guitar are its colour code. This current PAC612VIIX series superseded the PAC612VIIFM. IDK why Yamaha chose to annotate the current series a limited edition X, because the immediately previous release 612V series which but one, were all FM translucents (notated in their colour code) and are NLA or in production TMK.
Thanks for the great review. I dig the hard tail pac 611 and the whole pac series. Yam makes a great guitar. Only issue is the neck is narrow at the nut. Did you feel that playing the guitar?
You really can't go wrong with a Pacifica...as a player. The only thing that lets them down, is the very dull looks. They are the "Toyota" of the guitar world.
On the pickup config, ibanez not better than Yamaha specially when it comes to SSH, ibanez is better associated with HH or HSH.. I think ibanez discontinued alot of their SSH when they upgraded the S series to 24 frets and it dissolved the SV and SA, I don't know maybe there's still some SV or SA survivors out there but a lot of those models are gone, maybe an old Talman could give you the tones the Pacifica will give but that guitar is also discontinued, the only fender type guitar I can think of from ibanez is the Andy Timmons signature, but that's expensive or did they put out a budget AT version?
There’s a reason there’s a class action lawsuit against Fender for overcharging their guitars. I’ve yet to play a Fender as good as my Pacifica and I’ve played the USA models up to $2K. The Fenders were often poorly setup and even with a setup, didn’t feel good to me. Everyone makes a better Stratocaster now. Fuck Fender. They’ve turned into what people accused Gibson of having been.
That's an interesting take on the subject. I've played a standard USA Fender strat for 30 years. Countless hours of writing and recording music and live shows nearly every weekend for the last 28 years and never had so much as a single problem, no stripping of screws, no reliability issues whatsoever. Was bought for $400 and could be sold for $1500 today. The only work done on it were very typical of every guitar, refretted from 20 years of daily playing and electronics cleaner once for dirty pots. I would say that if your Yamaha can claim a track record comparable to that then you got one hell of a guitar there. Let me know in 25 years how she held up for you
I've owned 2 Pacificas. The 112 models are great hot rod projects. They're dirt cheap used and come with a humbucker. Threw an eBay Gibson 490 in it and had fun. The bridge was the typical cheapo bridge but with a big brass block it sounded good. The higher end Pacificas with the Wilkinson bridge are just solid out of the box. The humbucker is meh and was replaced with a JB for 80's hair metal goodness. The proprietary pickguard means you're stuck with what it came with. Not a huge deal unless you have a pickguard design you really like.
I think that Tobacco Sunburst livery exclusive to the PAC611V FM is one of if not the most aesthetically appealing body colours Yamaha produce. It's a tough call between either bridge 611 and the 612 IMO. I love the tones and configurations of all three.
Japanese, compared to Chinese or English, is a very monotone language that doesn't have much inflection when they speak. Japanese often say English sounds like music and when they mock us they over inflex their words. In the case of YAMAHA, you would say it without putting stress on any of the three syllables. However, if you were to put a stress in the word, that stress would go on the first YA because "yama" is actually one word, meaning mountain. (The HA means leaves as in leaves on a tree)
Ordered a Yamaha Revstar Standard (RSS02T) from Sweetwater a couple months ago. Got a bit of a wait ahead yet but really looking forward to it. But to quell my GAS during this long wait, I ordered a new Pacifica today, a sibling to the one you reviewed (PAC611HFM in translucent purple....because...purple). Enjoyed the vid. Always do!
Nice review of the guitar with lots of bonus entertainment! I own one of these and its well worth the bargain cost...lots of upgrades and a fast neck. I lived in Japan for years and have played many Yamaha guitars... this model is their best electric. Pronounced Ya ma ha.
Very Cool Demo/Review. Thankyou. I have a Yamaha Pacifica that I picked up cheap 2nd Hand with a Vox Amp. The Deal was a bargain($100-) and I was more interested in The Amp not expecting much from the guitar. The Pacifica turned out to be Amazing and is one of my Favorite Guitars. Big Yamaha Fan as my First Acoustic from 1980's is Yamaha and still going strong. Cheers
I have the 112, had it many years, I also own far more expensive guitars, but the Yamaha gets loads of attention, good action , stays in tune always. Will never get rid off, if it ever gets broken ( unlikely as build quality is superior ) or stolen then I would replace
V ii X means the X variant of the PAC V Mark ii (as in 2). Basically a new version of the original PACs that used to have the 812V as its top range model, now it's the 612.
Just bought a PAC112 off Facebook for $75 usd ... it's a nice guitar...but a little thin or narrow at the nut .. and I don't like the sound of the humbucker... but the 2nd position is way better.. and the neck isn't to bad .. it's Strat-ish sounding.. I plan to make some pickup swaps and go from there..I really wanted the 511 or 611 I think it was that's a hard tail and one Duncan Humbucker and a p90 in the neck .. cool review BTW
Landon…all kidding aside…this is one of your best tone samples I’ve heard in a while…don’t know if you’ve changed anything or if it was the guitar, but the tone was thick and smooth and warm…sounded really good!!…rock on my brother!!!!
the Seymour Duncan pickups are great! I've only had a couple guitars with that brand. the last one last comes to mind is the D'Angelico Premier DC last year
H/S/S is not for everyone. Reminds me of mid to late 80s EMG rigged axes. Yamaha instruments are high quality but €1100 for an Indonesian is pretty steep. You’re in used Fender USA territory already. The Pacifica has always been a solid wood body, even back in the early 90s when some Squiers were ply. The shape is somewhat uninteresting and half Strat half Peavy. That 5 way switch has plastic inside and looks cheap.
About 20 some years ago, I was in Costco and came across an odd shaped box that said Yamaha on it. It was a Yamaha electric guitar starter pack. It was the usual kit with "everything you need to start playing". The guitar is an ERG 121C that is HSH pickups. I still play it and it's never given me a problem. And you can't beat it for a starter guitar. I also have 2 Yamaha acoustic guitars.
Love yamaha. Played their Marching snare and a few kits. Their keyboards as well .....I cannot wait to try one of their guitars like this. Great review man.
I have a new Squier FMT Affinity in black with the flame top. I'm still trying to decide if I'm a strat guy. The Squier's not really doing it for me. I'm tempted to get the Pacifica 112V with alnico pickups. I like the control layout and the jack position on the Yamaha much better. The Fender strat layout is actually pretty bad. The Pacifica 112V is also pretty reasonably priced.
Great guitar! If I was designing it, I would move the Tone control in a little closer toward the Volume control, so that I could use it with my pinky while playing.
That's weird that it's routed for another humbucker in the middle. I've never seen one routed that way before. I've seen the neck routes for humbuckers. They should've just made it a swimming pool route. That would've helped with more weight relief as well. Nice guitar though. Edit: If they would make one with a maple board, I would be sold. I don't like darker boards.
I'm with you but on the other spectrum, almost wish they went even darker on the board for a warm coffee roasted look. Everything about this blue and the vintage plate are steller though!
Everything Yamaha touches is excellent.. Never been disappointed with their musical instruments.
they are solid all around. my first guitar was a Yamaha acoustic. still have it
@@landonbaileyYes there are just amazing acoustics for the money.. I also have an electric piano that just sounds and plays fantastic.. BTW have you ever tried one of their basses? My first bass was a Yamaha fretless made in Indonesia,.. Bought it at least 20 years ago and it still plays like a charm.. In my book, Yamaha makes the best bang for the buck in the industry for the bass.. Especially the TBRX Serie... In any event everything they touch: amps, guitars, bass, keyboards, trumpets, drums you name it, even at the entry level is usually unbeatable quality for the money..
@@BedeLaplumeThey have some serious competition now in the bang for the buck arena, e.g. Cort Indonesia, and Yamaha QC has fallen of over recent years (FACT), but Yamaha Indonesia do make unbeatable value guitars, and when you get a one that's up to their standard according to lore, it fits your accolade to a "T".
Case in point. Among other brands e.g Ibanez, Cort, 4 Pacificas, 2 Revstars, 2 APX e-acoustics & a TRBX bass owned here. That's 9 Yamaha guitars, all purchased NEW within the past five years , all Yamaha Indonesia. Hasn't all been QC OOTB plain sailing, but sorted eventually. The intention is still there, but BQ & QC is inconsistent in application IMPE. Would I buy another Yamaha? Yes, but I'm not brand blind.
@@theblytonian3906I see your point. As you mention, Cort is a strong and fierce competitor. I've heard, they actually manufacture all the Schecter guitars.. My fretless bass dates from the early 2000 or late 90's. It was kind of their first Indonesian factory and I am really satisfied with the overall QC of it.. Actually I am really happy with all of the Indonesian made guitars I've bought and tried so far.. One Of them being an Ibanez AS93.. Awesome semi hollow..
@@BedeLaplume Concur. Cort are OEM manufacturer for a range of famous brands including models for the PRS brand.
I have a Cort Manson collaboration Stage Series Classic TC, and it's a seriously GREAT guitar which ranks up there with the best custom shop from Fender AFAIC. Yamaha Japan would be proud to put its brand on it.
I would have gone with Cort for my bass, but the specific model I wanted wasn't available, so went with the Yamaha TRBX. More than equally happy. Combination of quality and unbeatable bang for the buck
I also own an Ibanez AS93FM. I experienced similar aesthetic BQ QC issues with Ibanez Indonesia as with Yamaha though. When you get 'the good one' it's an absolutely fabulous guitar. I would have liked a Yamaha SA2200, but wasn't prepared to spend triple the price on the SA2200's MIJ price tag.
I own a Pacifica 600 model and it's great the first thing I asked was: Why would anyone pay the price of a high-end Fender when this guitar has more?
This is the sharpest looking Yamaha Pacifica I've ever seen. Love the color along with the pickguard and the metal cover on the humbucker. Almost thought it was one of those prestige Ibanez AZ models when I first saw it.
I have a 112V from 2007-8 with a natural color, matt finish. The thing about matt or satin finishes is that they don't stay matt for too long if you play them a lot or even at all. The arm rest area especially gets polished up by the playing. Satin finish Revstars are also like that. It is cool way for way for the finish to wear, though! It's a kind of reverse relicing!
The Matt finish will wear shiny, as does a deglossed neck, in time. The frets look medium jumbo, a size which varies enormously between guitars fitted with medium jumbo frets.
I have 2 Yamaha Pacifica PAC112j's and they are amazing!!! One of them is my version of a Tom Delonge Strat in an Orange and the other one is a tribute to my first car which I still drive in a brown with gold racing stripe along the arm contour!!!
I own 20 guitars, Fenders Gibson's Schecter, LSL, PRS, Hamer etc. One guitar stands out and that's a Yamaha Ty Tybor guitar I literally found in a Skip outside a junk store and paid £50 for it. It was covered in concrete and dust and had two strings on it at the time. I brought it back to life and it's basically my second favourite instrument. Great neck, super tones and plays extremely well. If youve heard Kings X then you get the idea. Currently looking for another one so if your letting one go let me know!
cool I looked it up. never heard of that one before
How did you find a Hamer? Last time I found a Hamer was in 2013!
@@tomaslopez2940 it would have been around then I bought mine, Artist model, incredible bookmatched flamed maple top. Seymour Duncan Seth Lover PAF's, great sound, semi solid, mahogany body/neck. Poly finish which is my only gripe about the instrument. If there was an inexpensive way to remove the finish and give it a matt nitro lacquer I'd do it!
@@djw8133 Yeah I bought a black XT archtop in 2013 and it’s still one of my best guitars. I’m hoping that adding a Floyd Rose FRX will give it some new life eventually
Years ago I owned an emerald green Yamaha Drop 6, honestly probably the best electric I have ever owned in my life, sure wish I never sold it.
Yamaha has always made excellent everything from Trumpets, motorcycle’s, keyboards, stereos, guitars. I personally just don’t like the looks of them compared to a squier or fender. With that said, I may still have to get one just because they seem that good.
Yeah... I sold my mother-in-law's old Yamaha trumpet for her. We got a fortune for it. She was only expecting to get $100. We got $850. And my Yamaha tape deck is awesome, as is my SG1000 guitar. My mum had a Yamaha baby grand piano which she had for years. She traded it in at a Steinway dealer towards a Steinway - which was pretty much the only possible upgrade.
Yamaha also makes the engine for the legendary Lexus LFA And the most reliable boat engines there is out there -^^ , and Chris Buck is with them.
I'm the opposite. Dislike the Fender Strat aesthetic which looks like a a prototype the designer never got around to finishing, particularly that bulbous headstock. Yamaha got the proportions and everything else right with their Pacifica.
Check the Yamaha Revstar range, I really like the style better than the Pacifica
Yamaha also built the 1jz for toyota, a legendary Japanese engine
Hello! I am from Greece and I can say that You are the first ( ... and only ... ) reviewer that I 've seen measure a guitar with electronic instruments (weight, dimensions etc...) and also show to us the inside (electronics thus quality!!!) !!! Exceptional !!! It is as we where there "knowing" the guitar !!! Consider me a big fan from now on! Congrats!
P.S. I always loved Pacifica so I hope that you consider a GiveAway ... ( they are very expensive in Greece because of the dealer...) .
Love everything about that guitar, except for one very important thing… the super narrow 40mm nut width. When you have big fingers like me, the strings are just too close together on Pacifica guitars.
I think budget guitars always have narrow necks because that’s what parents buy their kids. Adults tend to buy themselves more high end instruments.
@@trentc7329 that is not the case at all. I have several budget guitars with 42-43mm nut width.
Yamaha was actually my first guitar, and this one looks really nice. Love that color. SE 250, locking nut with whammy, stayed in tune very nicely.
me too, mine was an acoustic that I still have
I had a Yamaha semi-hollow E335 type back in the 90's in honey sunburst - beautiful guitar, in all ways. Presently own a Yamaha THX-10 amp, and a Yammie trumpet. Great products. You can't really go wrong with anything Yamaha.
I love my Yamaha acoustic guitar. I received it as a birthday gift about 46 years ago. Still sounds great & stays in tune well. Excellent quality and craftsmanship.
Very nice!
That's about when I got mine too. Beautiful, excellent craftsmanship but currently at my daughter's house 2K miles away. No one is playing it. I'm going to bring it home next visit.
Everything Yamaha makes is quality. I played a Yamaha grand piano and it was exceptional. Steinway personal watercraft are subpar at best.
Regarding the longevity of satin-finish paint: I have a Yamaha BroadBass that has a neck painted satin black. The paint has worn to a gloss over time with use. There is a version of this bass with the body also painted satin black, and I understand that it also wears to a gloss with use.
I have the natural color of this same guitar and I love it. It is one of my favorite guitars to play. I really love that matte blue one and May have to get that one now😀
Did you find that it would stay in tune after using the trem? One of my biggest peeves with my squire right now is how it goes a quater step out of tune after using the trem.
I have an older EG112C. Played it a lot in a blues-rock band, very versatile and sounded better than "OK". At blues jams, most people would choose to play my Yamaha over the much-more-expensive SRV that was available. Even the really good players couldn't believe it was an inexpensive Yamaha. That was good enough for me.
I have 1 too! I found it at a swap meet and paid 45 bucks for it. I love it! I put a loaded pick guard with kiesel pick ups. Sounds like any other well made professional guitar ❤
You can not beat the price point Yamaha is producing guitars of this quality at. I have 4…the leader being the Pac611vfm. Duncan’s,Grover locking tuners, Wilkinson trem…it’s the Strat Killer
Fender should take notes
I own a Yamaha Revstar 620 and it is still the best guitar I own. Though given that I don't own the custom-level guitar builds that major manufacturers offer.
For $749 not sure there is anything nicer. The problem with matte is where you rub it gets shiny. It gets buffed out like
I would make one small improvement. Change the small pots for large. Nothing else. Have that done and a professional set up and you could literally spend 3 times the money and not get a better guitar.
Sweet brother! Awesome guitar man.. between the Pacifica and the revstars it's hard to beat them in any way
A really good Yamaha to get that is unique is their Revstar, double cut with a built in transformer to boost the sound.
i want the p 90 one ... and I play bass
I have a matt black 'vintage' (the jhs brand) from the early 2000's. Over time the contact areas of the guitar (neck, top, just below the bridge pick up) has worn to a shiny, very smooth finish.
So nice and quick to play, and only took many years of effort
To answer your question about the wears of a matte finish guitar. You will later find some spot looking shiny/greasy. This is definitely obvious at the parts where you scratch/touch the guitar the most.
I realize thats what happened to my Yamaha Acoustic!
i have a red one. i bought from sweetwater two months ago
Very nice color and sound. Good work Yamaha.
Many thanks!
Yamaha appears to have made a pro level guitar at a reasonable price. I think Yamaha electrics have not been as popular as they are in other countries. I think people associate Yamaha with beginner Spanish guitars. I would love to have this style guitar When you went to the second switch position if it would give me single coil bridge and middle and not humbucker and middle. Ever heard of one like that?
Not sure if you encountered this yet, but after my Flame red Pacifica 612 got it's first string change, the strings would start clicking at the nut whenever you use the bar. Just a heads up. Other than that, the Pacifica is a fantastic instrument!
The only serious downside is finding one of these! I ordered my Pacifica in March 2021 and got it in May 2022! Even after they announced a new line of Revstars earlier this year, I still haven't seen many Yamaha electrics in my local guitar shops.
Did you change with the same gauge?
@@landonbailey I think it had 9’s and then I put on 10’s in Eb
@@landonbaileyupdate: I’ve noticed the more often the guitar is played, the less likely the nut is to creak. I guess the strings need to be used often for the self lubricating nut to lubricate.
I love this guitar, and I’m hoping to add the Revstar one day!
Nice Review Landon. Pacifica's are quite underrated... especially for their price point... from Great Beginner Guitars in the lower models to these Superb Playing 600 series. Good Pickups and Variations thereof throughout and their build quality and feel is well beyond their $ Value. I currently don't have one in my collection but have had my eye on the 600's for a while. Great Gigging guitar if you don't want to risk trashing your overpriced Fender!
Yes. The Seymour Duncan pickups were very uneven in output- the bass string pole on the humbucker needed screwing down a load and the neck pickup was uneven output, the trem was a job to intonate. Sold it for a give away price. Oh yes I almost forgot- the frets needed very badly smoothing. All together a surprising experience as other Yamaha I'd had in the past were good.
If you are not sure where to put your headstock tuner, this model gives you a good suggestion on where to clip it.
The problem with mat finishes is that the sweat from your arms and hands will make permanent shinny spots that won't completely wipe off.
or worse! said rory gallagher
Yep. And, like black even in gloss, they show up every finger mark and handling smudge as if neon illuminated. However at least with a gloss finish, those marks can be wiped away.
It's part of the character of the guitar
Came across your channel today, and loved your content thoroughly! Subscribed, looking forward on seeing more great stuff 🤘🏻
It is proud of Japan!
Love how this pac612 rolls.
I have had five Stratocaster’s. I have zero now, I just never bond with them. I have had three Pacificas.. I keep upgrading from a 012, 112, 312, I sold them all because now I want a611. For me, they are better than a Stratocaster. They are faster.. I like my Schecter blackjack better than a Strat. I like my Ibanez 370 way better than a Strat..
the last 30 years, every Stratocaster I buy or swap for ends up sitting in the case after the first month until I sell or swap it. They’re good guitars, I never use the center pick up. I never really figured out why it has two tone controls. I like the ones with the SSH set up better then the ones with three single coils..I’m just not crazy about them
Ugh, now I need to buy one, thanks :)
Any time!
Didn’t expect to hear Ana’s song riff. 👍🏻
Great demo Landon thanks! I never noticed how the body is slightly off-set. Love the shape of it. I also like the pickguard and how it looks different to a strat and doesn't cover the bridge pickup. The fretboard has a lot of figuring for rosewood! Sounds great too! Had my eye on the new Yamaha revstar with p90s (which has carbon fiber rod going through the neck).
Thanks for watching!
I had one with the p90 in the neck. It was soooooo heavy, ugh…
Good review on the Yama-ha, LB.
Was also good to see the pedals used.
I was pretty set on getting the Fired Red color, until I saw how nice the Blue looks.
Played and own Pacifica. My best is my 510V.. Love these and my Revstars..👍🇦🇺
Hey, cheers! I got myself a Green/Pearly Shield one from the PAC612VIIX series.
Is it possible to safely fix the tremolo bar? It's a bit loose and it seems to me that I'd need to take my bridge off to tighten it up a bit. Please tell me it's easier than that haha.
Anyway, great review, great job! Cheers!
I haven't tried!
Yes! Been waiting for this, Landon!
oh cool! I know people have asked about it
I don’t play guitar, I only play Yamaha drums. Great quality and tones.
Nice review! First time i've seen ya wham the trem, that's how the cool kids say it. Seriously I think you were having a good time with this one for sure and feeling a little inspired. I've never even picked one up before but now I want to so you'll have to live with that on your conscience.
I absolutely love Yamaha!
Ya like Yawn , not Ya like Yeah.
Just do you as they say , but I'm a yawn guy. 😎
I've been a Yamaha fan for about 50 of my 58 years. Drums , keyboards, motorcycles and guitars of course. I have 2 Yamaha guitars in the collection that I will have till I die. My cousin used to work at Yamaha Music in Grand Rapids Michigan in the late 70's and early 80's. Now you gotta check out a Revstar!!!
A quality company 100%!
Peace from Southwest Michigan.
🎸🎶🎵🧠🌌♾⚡🇺🇸🇨🇦
I just got a 1999 Yamaha Pacifica 12 string
Yamaha make incredible guitars. I have 2 revstars and they are absolute favourites out of all my 15 guitars
New sub. Love your channel.
Welcome aboard!
They’re different company simple as that I’m personally love them both
If I'm not mistaken, only the silk blue has a satin neck, the rest are gloss
I did not know that. I'll have to check! that's cool
I play my modded lefty Yamaha 112 through my Yamaha THR10c. Added a filtertron clone pickup to the neck. Yamaha means getting your money's worth.
The suffix VIIX isn't intended to represent any Roman numeral.
Pacifica Suffix codes. V denotes vibrato bridge, II (double II as in the Roman numeral for 2) AFAIK implies generation two in this instance, its deployment appears specific to the Pacifica 612V although Yamaha are inconsistent in how they include that in a suffix. i.e. more frequently the suffix //02 is found in the code on the box in the instance of other models Revstar, C40 and appears to denote a significant change to the model other than design e.g. typically, change to a different body wood, X in the suffix as such denotes a limited edition. And of course, the last three letters of any Yamaha guitar are its colour code. This current PAC612VIIX series superseded the PAC612VIIFM. IDK why Yamaha chose to annotate the current series a limited edition X, because the immediately previous release 612V series which but one, were all FM translucents (notated in their colour code) and are NLA or in production TMK.
Thanks for the great review. I dig the hard tail pac 611 and the whole pac series. Yam makes a great guitar. Only issue is the neck is narrow at the nut. Did you feel that playing the guitar?
it is pretty narrow but it didn't bother me
You really can't go wrong with a Pacifica...as a player.
The only thing that lets them down, is the very dull looks.
They are the "Toyota" of the guitar world.
Toyota or Honda for sure 😁
Not really inspiring. Ibanez probably better choice.
On the pickup config, ibanez not better than Yamaha specially when it comes to SSH, ibanez is better associated with HH or HSH..
I think ibanez discontinued alot of their SSH when they upgraded the S series to 24 frets and it dissolved the SV and SA, I don't know maybe there's still some SV or SA survivors out there but a lot of those models are gone, maybe an old Talman could give you the tones the Pacifica will give but that guitar is also discontinued, the only fender type guitar I can think of from ibanez is the Andy Timmons signature, but that's expensive or did they put out a budget AT version?
I own one Acoustic but the nut width has kept me from buying an electric do you notice it very much
I do not
There’s a reason there’s a class action lawsuit against Fender for overcharging their guitars. I’ve yet to play a Fender as good as my Pacifica and I’ve played the USA models up to $2K. The Fenders were often poorly setup and even with a setup, didn’t feel good to me. Everyone makes a better Stratocaster now. Fuck Fender. They’ve turned into what people accused Gibson of having been.
I like Fender
That's an interesting take on the subject. I've played a standard USA Fender strat for 30 years. Countless hours of writing and recording music and live shows nearly every weekend for the last 28 years and never had so much as a single problem, no stripping of screws, no reliability issues whatsoever. Was bought for $400 and could be sold for $1500 today. The only work done on it were very typical of every guitar, refretted from 20 years of daily playing and electronics cleaner once for dirty pots. I would say that if your Yamaha can claim a track record comparable to that then you got one hell of a guitar there. Let me know in 25 years how she held up for you
I am Canadian in the US, but I still call it Yam like Yam Bags.. not Yom
Also available in a red finish
I used to own pac 212vqm, it was fantastic. Fret work excellent!
1. What are the difference among the PAC612VIIFM; PAC612VIIFMX; and PAC612VIIX?
2. How much in US dollars?
3. Are these made in Japan?
Thank you.
I want a Revstar....but one has to wait forever. I like the Pacifica, but the neck access needs work. Do not understand that ancient design.
I've owned 2 Pacificas. The 112 models are great hot rod projects. They're dirt cheap used and come with a humbucker. Threw an eBay Gibson 490 in it and had fun. The bridge was the typical cheapo bridge but with a big brass block it sounded good. The higher end Pacificas with the Wilkinson bridge are just solid out of the box. The humbucker is meh and was replaced with a JB for 80's hair metal goodness. The proprietary pickguard means you're stuck with what it came with. Not a huge deal unless you have a pickguard design you really like.
Yamaha has always been know for quality. That being said this guitar is impressive.
So, Yamaha 612 or Epiphone Les Paul classic ?
I don't care what anyone else says. That teal green 612 is beautiful. It'd be a dream to own one
Yamaha is great!
Love that color and finish
These are def nicer than most strats imo
Great review Landon. I've had a Yamaha PAC611VFM tobacco Sunburst for about 5 years now, and ironically, it's become my most played favourite guitar.
Very nice!
I think that Tobacco Sunburst livery exclusive to the PAC611V FM is one of if not the most aesthetically appealing body colours Yamaha produce. It's a tough call between either bridge 611 and the 612 IMO. I love the tones and configurations of all three.
Wow yamaha that's a gorgeous guitar
I think so too!
Japanese, compared to Chinese or English, is a very monotone language that doesn't have much inflection when they speak. Japanese often say English sounds like music and when they mock us they over inflex their words. In the case of YAMAHA, you would say it without putting stress on any of the three syllables. However, if you were to put a stress in the word, that stress would go on the first YA because "yama" is actually one word, meaning mountain. (The HA means leaves as in leaves on a tree)
Pots and pans down the stairs is how they name everything
I thought their pots and switch were on the low end?
Bridge tone pulled sounds awesome 👏
I think so too!
Ordered a Yamaha Revstar Standard (RSS02T) from Sweetwater a couple months ago. Got a bit of a wait ahead yet but really looking forward to it. But to quell my GAS during this long wait, I ordered a new Pacifica today, a sibling to the one you reviewed (PAC611HFM in translucent purple....because...purple). Enjoyed the vid. Always do!
I'm looking forward to trying one someday!
Nice review of the guitar with lots of bonus entertainment! I own one of these and its well worth the bargain cost...lots of upgrades and a fast neck. I lived in Japan for years and have played many Yamaha guitars... this model is their best electric. Pronounced Ya ma ha.
This guitar is great. The only difficult decision i have is whether to go for the 611 or the 612
🎸👍
The 611 is strat shaped but technically a tele.
Very Cool Demo/Review. Thankyou. I have a Yamaha Pacifica that I picked up cheap 2nd Hand with a Vox Amp. The Deal was a bargain($100-) and I was more interested in The Amp not expecting much from the guitar. The Pacifica turned out to be Amazing and is one of my Favorite Guitars. Big Yamaha Fan as my First Acoustic from 1980's is Yamaha and still going strong. Cheers
me too! I still have my first Yamaha acoustic guitar
I have that guitar yes the matte blue
I have the 112, had it many years, I also own far more expensive guitars, but the Yamaha gets loads of attention, good action , stays in tune always. Will never get rid off, if it ever gets broken ( unlikely as build quality is superior ) or stolen then I would replace
V ii X means the X variant of the PAC V Mark ii (as in 2). Basically a new version of the original PACs that used to have the 812V as its top range model, now it's the 612.
cheers!
Just bought a PAC112 off Facebook for $75 usd ... it's a nice guitar...but a little thin or narrow at the nut .. and I don't like the sound of the humbucker... but the 2nd position is way better.. and the neck isn't to bad .. it's Strat-ish sounding.. I plan to make some pickup swaps and go from there..I really wanted the 511 or 611 I think it was that's a hard tail and one Duncan Humbucker and a p90 in the neck .. cool review BTW
Landon…all kidding aside…this is one of your best tone samples I’ve heard in a while…don’t know if you’ve changed anything or if it was the guitar, but the tone was thick and smooth and warm…sounded really good!!…rock on my brother!!!!
the Seymour Duncan pickups are great! I've only had a couple guitars with that brand. the last one last comes to mind is the D'Angelico Premier DC last year
H/S/S is not for everyone. Reminds me of mid to late 80s EMG rigged axes.
Yamaha instruments are high quality but €1100 for an Indonesian is pretty steep. You’re in used Fender USA territory already. The Pacifica has always been a solid wood body, even back in the early 90s when some Squiers were ply. The shape is somewhat uninteresting and half Strat half Peavy. That 5 way switch has plastic inside and looks cheap.
The matte finish will get really shiny where your hands lay when you are playing.
👍🎸
Do they make a T-style version?
I haven't seen one
Now that you have this it'd be cool to see a tremolo system comparison between the Wilkinson, FR, different strat bridges, etc
Hi! How do you get the tremolo bar in place? Mine gets falling out...thanks
it just stayed in place
@@landonbailey I've found that a little screw is beneath the bridge to adjust the tremolo bar...
About 20 some years ago, I was in Costco and came across an odd shaped box that said Yamaha on it. It was a Yamaha electric guitar starter pack. It was the usual kit with "everything you need to start playing". The guitar is an ERG 121C that is HSH pickups. I still play it and it's never given me a problem. And you can't beat it for a starter guitar. I also have 2 Yamaha acoustic guitars.
Yes in black!
Love yamaha. Played their Marching snare and a few kits. Their keyboards as well .....I cannot wait to try one of their guitars like this. Great review man.
Not saying they are all the same factory workers. Hahahahahahah but you know the name carries a great product backing of value and craftsmanship.
thanks!
I want a Mike Stern Yamaha in a bad way. Only thing making me think twice is its neck radius
(7.25) .oh well
7.25 can be fine with a good setup
@@landonbailey true. I might just jump into the deepend and get one
You can not beat the price point Yamaha is producing guitars of this quality at. I have 4…the leader being the Pac611vfm
I have a new Squier FMT Affinity in black with the flame top. I'm still trying to decide if I'm a strat guy. The Squier's not really doing it for me. I'm tempted to get the Pacifica 112V with alnico pickups. I like the control layout and the jack position on the Yamaha much better. The Fender strat layout is actually pretty bad. The Pacifica 112V is also pretty reasonably priced.
Great guitar! If I was designing it, I would move the Tone control in a little closer toward the Volume control, so that I could use it with my pinky while playing.
That's weird that it's routed for another humbucker in the middle. I've never seen one routed that way before. I've seen the neck routes for humbuckers. They should've just made it a swimming pool route. That would've helped with more weight relief as well. Nice guitar though.
Edit: If they would make one with a maple board, I would be sold. I don't like darker boards.
I'm with you but on the other spectrum, almost wish they went even darker on the board for a warm coffee roasted look. Everything about this blue and the vintage plate are steller though!
I wish Yamaha make a more comfortable hill-joint on pacifica the onlu reason I bought schecter nick johnston is because of that.
heel! ah k
@@landonbailey thank you english teacher
My Yamaha Pacifica PAC612VIIFM in Indigo is my best Strat. Fast neck. Great looks. Upscale in almost every way. Way cheaper than Fender.
Your dry humor is great. Subbed
Welcome aboard!