Guild experts: difference between Guild D-25 and D-35?
 

Hi everyone, I am just wondering if anyone can tell me the differences between the Guild D-25 and D-35? It seems like the only difference from what I can tell besides cosmetics is the arched back of the D-25 vs. the straight back of the D-35, and from what I've been reading online it seems that more people generally prefer the arched back D-25 to the D-35.

So is the D-25 really a better guitar than the D-35? Does the arched back really give more projection and volume? I'm looking for a Westerly, RI one and am trying to decide between these 2 models.

Thanks

I know the '78 D25 and a '07 D40. If the 25 is louder, it's not striking.

My old Guild D-35 is mahogany back & sides with Sitka top. I believe the old D-25 is all mahogany. I don't know anything about the new Guild designations.

Both models were introduced in 1968. The D-25 was mahogany topped with a solid back until late 1973 when Guild started using a laminate arched back. In 1974 they changed the top from mahogany to spruce. Which is better is a point you will have to decide when you listen to them both.

Thanks Bax, I picked up a 1978 Guild D-35NT today after playing it for about an hour and you're right about it not being too different from the D-25 volume-wise. Really great guitar and just an absolute steal at $350 with the original hardshell case from the 70s (and the owner's manual from the 70s too!). I had my brother bring his old Guild D-25M over and the D-25 is definitely boomier/bass heavier than my D-35. And thanks Yairimann, it's the laminate back version since it has the arch, and I think it's that arch that gives it its boomier response. They have slightly different tones, with the D-35 being what I would describe as a bit more woody and organic. Both equal in the tone department as far as quality goes as far as I'm concerned.

These old Guilds truly are the best bang for your buck in my opinion, My brother also got his for $375 with hardshell case a few years back. Amazing guitars