Concert OM vs OM Black Ice

JodyB · #1 07-04-2013, 09:57 PM

I'm in the process of trying to sell my Rainsong WS1000 to purchase a Rainsong OM. My shoulder no longer tolerates the deeper body. Nobody around here stocks Rainsongs so I'm searching out opinions here. I play fingerstyle, primarily in open turnings, and often use my Rainsong for outdoor weddings.

I'd appreciate any feedback regarding tonal differences in the two models. I've read that the concert is built to more closely resemble the tone of a traditional guitar. Just wondered what those who have played one or both thought.

Thank you!

Jody

pandaroo · #2 07-05-2013, 03:00 AM

I havent played the black ice but used to own a concert. I love it for its warmer characteristics. There are lots of love for the Shorty OM which also uses the same top as the Concert. I also play fingerstyle primarily and open and drop down tunings. I sold my WS concert also due body too deep for me to handle. If i were to replace my rainsong I highly recommend the Shorty.

Doubleneck · #3 07-05-2013, 05:45 AM

I have a Black Ice JM1000 and they say it is a cosmetic or looks not sound difference. I find that to be true it sounds like the brighter classic weave. If you want warmer closer to wood go with the Unidirectional top. I have that on my Parlor and it is very woodlike.

Kindness · #4 07-05-2013, 06:35 AM

My Shorty has a wonderful, warm woody sound. I play fingerstyle and this guitar is just incredible. You won't be disappointed!

JodyB · #5 07-05-2013, 10:27 AM

Thanks!! How does the Shorty work in lowered tunings? I play a lot of slack key and use a low C frequently. That would be my main reservation. Would a Shorty fit a standard OM case? I have a Calton and plan to fly with whatever OM I get. I truly appreciate the input.

Jody

Doubleneck · #6 07-05-2013, 10:33 AM

That's a legitimate concern a "c" with a short scale could be a challenge, I will try it with my short scale tonight.

SteelPastor · #7 07-05-2013, 01:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JodyB

Thanks!! How does the Shorty work in lowered tunings? I play a lot of slack key and use a low C frequently. That would be my main reservation. Would a Shorty fit a standard OM case? I have a Calton and plan to fly with whatever OM I get. I truly appreciate the input.

Jody

Jody,

If I remember correctly, Lisa plays in lower tunings a lot. Maybe she will weigh in on that. I will say that I ordered a Shorty sight-unseen... for the 12-fret set-up and thinner body. I have seldom been more pleased with a guitar.

.

Kindness · #8 07-05-2013, 02:46 PM

I keep my Shorty tuned down one whole step to D. I had my guitar tech set it up for this specifically, and it works brilliantly. And I play with a super low action and it sound so rich. I have played her in alternate tunings and it just shines. A proper set up is the key to making this work.

The TKL case it comes with it is solid, and I have gate checked it a half dozen times without any problems. That being said,I just ordered a Mono M80 OM case so it will be lighter to travel with. This case gets excellent reviews.

SteelPastor · #9 07-05-2013, 03:09 PM

Lisa,

You're the best! BTW... is the Mono M80 OM a soft-side or hard-side case (does it hold its shape if handled hard)?

Go Shorty, GO!

.

Kindness · #10 07-05-2013, 04:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelPastor

Lisa,

You're the best! BTW... is the Mono M80 OM a soft-side or hard-side case (does it hold its shape if handled hard)?

Go Shorty, GO!

.

The Mono case will arrive this Monday...review to come! Andy over on the MacNichol forum loves his!

Here is the description of the Mono case:

We’ve designed the M80 Series from the inside out to be the lightest, thinnest, strongest, most versatile carrying solutions for the professional musician. A hybrid case featuring an ultra light laminated foam shell with strategically placed ABS panels, providing an unmatched level of protection for your most prized investments. Smart features like the Clip/Tuck straps make for easy airport travel, while the streamlined profile helps you slip through the crowds.

Doubleneck · #11 07-05-2013, 08:41 PM

I tuned my standard scale JM 1000 and my Parlor short scale both to C on the low E. I am using light guage strings. The JM 1000 handled it pretty well. I think the short scale Parlor was getting floppy and strained. Maybe you need heavier strings and it would work on the short scale, but you concerns about a short scale tuned to C could be warranted.

Kindness · #12 07-06-2013, 07:07 AM

I use .13-.56 medium Elixir polywebs. Light gauge strings do to work.

Doubleneck · #13 07-06-2013, 07:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by itself

I use .13-.56 medium Elixir polywebs. Light gauge strings do to work.

Lisa can you take that low E to a C with the mediums on the shorty?

Kindness · #14 07-06-2013, 08:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Doubleneck

Lisa can you take that low E to a C with the mediums on the shorty?

Yes I can!

JodyB · #15 07-07-2013, 12:54 PM

Thanks for all the excellent insights! Now I have a real conundrum with the Shorty in the mix. And I sold my WS1000 so decision time is here. I'd love to find a used OM. Part of why I'm doing this is that I'm attending the Aloha Music Camp on Kauai in February. So every penny counts!

Does anyone know the procedure here when an instrument sells? I didn't find it in the For Sale info post. Other forums ask you to leave the posting for comparison purposes but mark it sold. However I can't seem to edit my title, so I just put sold in the post for now.

I'm glad to confirm that the Black Ice is all cosmetic. That narrows the search down.

I'm checking out Mono cases. Sounds like a great alternative to a heavier hardshell.

Jody