#1
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Larrivee OM-03 vs OM-40
I've read through some of the threads on the subject but was hoping I could see if I could get a little more input.
I was about to buy a beater used guitar the other day and the guy at the shop talked me into playing a new Larrivee OM-03. Let's just say I'm no longer looking at used beaters. So as I'm saving up a few more pennies, I notice that the OM-40 is similarly priced but has a different bracing system with the intention of creating more of a "traditional" sound and potentially more volume. I also like the aesthetics of the top and the tuners. Anyway, for those who have had a chance to play both, how much difference is there? I can't find a 40 to try. I like the idea of "traditional" as I definitely lean toward the Martin sound (just not the price tag). At some point I'm going to have to go with what I know or take a little bit of a leap and have them order a 40 for me. I'm hoping you guys can help me at least get it more organized in my head. |
#2
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I've owned both. Wonderful guitars, for sure! The 40 will have just a bit more bass response, but I found them to be pretty similar. I like the aesthetic of the 40 better, but both are stellar instruments.
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Eastman E1SS-SB Eastman PCH1-OM-CLA |
#3
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I have several Larrivee guitars and they are all wonderful instruments with great built quality and top notch materials. Blues |
#4
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If you go to the Larrivee site you can compare models:
https://www.larrivee.com/model-comparison It appears that they are nearly identical, with the only serious difference seeming to be the bracing-- OM-40 has scalloped hybrid, while the OM-03 has X-bracing. i remember reading somewhere that the goal of the scalloped hybrid bracing was to provide more bass response, so kcnbys's comment matches up with that. Unfortunately, I haven't played the 03, so I can't give you my A/B impressions. I happen to agree with kcnbys in preferring the visual aesthetics of the 40, but that's just personal taste. I can say that the Larrivee OM-40 sounds beautiful. It's very balanced, with a nice, satisfying-- but not boomy-- bass. Fantastic finger picker. As I'm leaning to play it better, it's turning out to be a good strummer, too, but I still prefer my Gibson for that.
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2019 Gibson J-15 2019 Larrivee OM-40 |
#5
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Whether its the 40 or the 03, I've found Larrivee mahogany a step above the rosewood.
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Northwood 00-80 (Adirondack/Brazilian) Northwood LP-Style Tobacco Burst Morgan JS12 Saez Marin G90 (Cedar/EIR) |
#6
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#7
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Thanks folks. I guess I'd prefer the 40 but I have to decide if I am ok with ordering one I haven't played. Then again, I haven't asked the shop about their policy regarding such things. In other words if they order a 40 am I obligated to buy it? I guess I'll have to give them a call but thanks for the input. If nothing else, I like some of the aesthetics enough to choose the 40.
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#8
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All shops should have a written return policy. You should absolutely have the opportunity to return it. Check some of our sponsors here for examples.
Also, you should be able to get one of these for around 40% off the MSRP listed on the Larrivee website. That's how much I paid new for my SD-40. |
#9
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I forgot about the sponsor route. Doing the math that could work out a little cheaper. |
#10
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I own an OM-03 and owned an OM-40. Both were stellar examples of a mahogany and spruce OM. The 40 has more traditional aesthetics and a bit more bass, but dang, they're super close. I had sold my 40 due to career change, and was hankering for another one when Shoreline music did their moving sale last year. I took a chance that I'd like the OM-03 (at a KILLER price) and I'm so glad I did.
If you liked the OM-03, you will like the OM-40. Either one will be a wonderful instrument for years to come. Good luck!
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Treenewt |
#11
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Adding +1 to Treenewt’s comments. I had a similar experience, except with the D-40 MT and then the D-03MT. Each of these was a special run (due to the mahogany tops), but otherwise true to model specs.
I realized immediately after selling my D-40MT that I’d made a serious error. Missed it for 3 years. Recently found a beautiful, used all-mahogany D-03MT available and — like Treenewt — took the chance on liking it. And I do like it at least as well! So yes, both models are excellent quality and tone.
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1986 Martin Std. D-28P: Sitka/Rosewood 2004 Gernandt Custom D: Sitka/Walnut 2010 Taylor LTD DN-5e: Engelmann/Mah. 2015 Larrivee OM-40: Sitka/Mahogany 2016 Godin S & P Woodland Pro Folk (LG) 2017 Martin Retro 000-15M: All-Mahogany 2019 Taylor LTD 512ce 12-fret: Cedar/Koa 2022 Gibson Original L-00: Sitka/Mahogany 2023 Larrivee OM-40R: Bearclaw/Rosewood |
#12
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Have them order the OM-40 so you can A-B them side by side. Tell them you WILL BUY the one you like best. Either way it’s a sale for them and they will have their inventory replacement at hand when you leave almost as though you had never Been there, save for the cash from the sale in their pocket. Blues |
#13
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Pretty solid plan right there. I'll give them a call tomorrow. |
#14
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There have been many forum threads on the consistency of Larrivee guitars.What you have to consider is if you like the added bass response. I own Two 40 series guitars and two regular series Larrivees. Personally, I do like the extra bass. However, it all depends upon your playing style and music of your choice. Of course....there is no substitute for trying the guitar in person first. To see if the you like that difference. |
#15
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The -40 is slightly more responsive, and has a tiny bit more bass presence.
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Larrivee OM-03RE; O-01 Martin D-35; Guild F-212; Tacoma Roadking Breedlove American Series C20/SR Rainsong SFTA-FLE; WS3000; CH-PA Taylor GA3-12, Guild F-212 https://markhorning.bandcamp.com/music |