Lowden S or F size?

[garthjmoore]

Hi all,

As much as I still drool over an S Lowden model, but someone told me I'd like an F model better for range and volume.

I'm about 5'8", 170lbs, with kinda small hands. I've never played an F model, just wondering what would be comparable in terms of playability for me. I mean, I'm sure it's amazing, but can I get my arms around it and play it?

Thanks.

[boombox]

Originally Posted by garthjmoore

Hi all,

As much as I still drool over an S Lowden model, but someone told me I'd like an F model better for range and volume.

I'm about 5'8", 170lbs, with kinda small hands. I've never played an F model, just wondering what would be comparable in terms of playability for me. I mean, I'm sure it's amazing, but can I get my arms around it and play it?

Thanks.

I don't think you'd have a problem with an F model, but might not like the O.

[JayBee1404]

Unless you get hold of a special-build, hand size doesn’t really come into it - the standard Lowden nut-width on O, F, S, and W models is 45mm and the neck joint width is 57mm, although a 43.5mm nut-width, 56mm neck joint width neck is available on special order.

My experience, as a 5’7”, 168lb, 75-year-old guy is that, body-size-wise, I find the O size just a tad too big (both width and depth), the S size a tad too small, and the F size is perfect for me.

But I’m not you, and I would strongly recommend that you try before you buy, even if it means a road-trip or a flight.

As always, the standard disclaimer applies - IMHO. However, I realise that YMMV, and I’m cool with that.

[Zaam]

You might find that neck profile is more of a factor for you than the difference between an S and F. I'd follow the advice above and try b4 buy.

[BluesKing777]

In forum tradition, I will say to buy both!

Though my 1993 S35 is magic.


BluesKing777.

[nikpearson]

Even a builder of George Lowden’s stature cannot make a small guitar sound like a big one. I’ve played probably ten S series guitars over the years and all sounded…well like a small guitar.

I’ve played many F size instruments and owned two. This is a small jumbo similar in size to a Gibson J185. With this body shape you get the signature Lowden open, airy and overtone rich sound but…

The O series instruments, for me at least, are the best sounding guitars Lowden build. More bottom end, more space, more overtones. Once you’ve played one of these it’s hard to go back to the smaller models. The lower bout is wide, I think a little under 17 inches, and the body depth is substantial. I’m 5’ 9” and don’t find the size an issue. And that sound.

Suffice to say the only Lowden I have kept is my O25.

[Powderfinger]

I have an F model (and had an S model). The F model is a tad too deep for my ultimate shoulder comfort, but my fix was to play with a shoulder strap in a classical style position with the lower bout sitting at a lower angle. Worth seeking an F model in my opinion if you're seeking a powerful, fuller tonal range.

[usb_chord]

The F is sorta like if a dread had a tighter waist, which makes it feel a bit more comfortable than most dreads. Still, it has decent depth and I'm fairly sure the lower bout is closer to 16" than 15". That said, I love them. They sound great and are pretty dang versatile. The FM model feels much more like a 000 - it's far shallower.

[Rick Jones]

Originally Posted by nikpearson

Even a builder of George Lowden’s stature cannot make a small guitar sound like a big one. I’ve played probably ten S series guitars over the years and all sounded…well like a small guitar.

I’ve played many F size instruments and owned two. This is a small jumbo similar in size to a Gibson J185. With this body shape you get the signature Lowden open, airy and overtone rich sound but…

The O series instruments, for me at least, are the best sounding guitars Lowden build. More bottom end, more space, more overtones. Once you’ve played one of these it’s hard to go back to the smaller models. The lower bout is wide, I think a little under 17 inches, and the body depth is substantial. I’m 5’ 9” and don’t find the size an issue. And that sound.

Suffice to say the only Lowden I have kep is my O25.

Very much a YMMV situation, I think.

I have both a Lowden 022 and an Avalon L32 equivalent to an O shape and size... my particular L-shaped Avalon is from before they made the Legacy range, so is very much like a Lowden just with a pin bridge in that it has the dolphin style bracing, the single-action truss rod (rare for Avalons) and the five piece neck and it came (from Avalon) in a Hiscox case with a Lowden logo on it. I think it's a product of a transitional time in Newtonards. It sounds really good.

I also have an Avalon A, which is the size and shape of the earliest Lowden F models.

I do agree that the bigger O-types have more 'space', but honestly the small Avalon keeps up with bass and fatness of treble, it's just a bit more direct, projects more and isn't as 'gentle' in the attack. You have to play it differently, I'd say. It's not as forgiving.

If I had to keep just one of them based on sound alone, it would be the smaller A model. I like the O-styles to play live mainly because I am nearly 6'4 and built like an ogre, but the smaller guitar gives nothing away in tone, dynamics or sustain. I feel like Ed Sheerhan playing the 'little' A out live.

When I played an S model Lowden I was shocked at how good it was, but it's not near the F or my Avalon A in any of the above, IMO.

[sayheyjeff]

Oh the timing. Just traded the F388c I have had for many years or i’d Say come try it on for size. I’m 5’6 and about 135. Have loved the Lowden for years. The reason I decided to trade it was to go short scale. Traded my OM a short while ago for the same reason. Just playing short scale and less than 14 frets better most days as arthritis comes on. My sense is the F series should not be too big since it wasn’t for me. Very special guitars. All that said, I am also a fan of the Lowden S and McIlroy AS. Smaller, but the sound is beautiful.

Jeff

[UKPhil]

Don't forget the difference in scale length between the two which may make a difference to someone with small hands and therefore reach.

The S has 630mm and I think the F maybe 650mm.

[JayBee1404]

Originally Posted by UKPhil

Don't forget the difference in scale length between the two which may make a difference to someone with small hands and therefore reach.

The S has 630mm and I think the F maybe 650mm.

Yes, I was searching around the Lowden site for scale-lengths, Phil, but I couldn’t find them. I believe you’re right about the S being shorter scale than my F.

[Malcolm Kindnes]

Having owned several Lowdens over the years, I think you should go for the F model. It's the best all rounder.

[JayBee1404]

Originally Posted by Malcolm Kindnes

Having owned several Lowdens over the years, I think you should go for the F model. It's the best all rounder.

And, on a similar basis, I agree with Malcolm!

[steveh]

Originally Posted by JayBee1404

And, on a similar basis, I agree with Malcolm!

And one more who agrees.

The older F models came with a 43mm nut width, changing to 45mm later.
I "upgraded" my 43 to a 45 as those two mm made all the difference re easy fingering.

Cheers,
Steve