WOW...Eastman E10D Review...kudos!!

VJP5 · #1 03-10-2014, 08:42 AM

I took a stroll to Tobias Music (a sponsor) over the weekend to pick up some strings and to see what they had in stock.

Right in front was an Eastman E10D, solid Adirondack top, scalloped bracing and solid mahogany back and sides. Normally, one might say 'for the money, you can't beat this guitar'. But I will simply say "WOW!!! Whatta guitar!!" Had to be one of the loudest guitars I've ever played. If it wasn't for the possibility of getting kicked out of the house, I would have brought this one home. I was very impressed with the sound, comfort to play, quality.....and now I will say it - the price! An awful lot of guitar for the buck.

For those of you with Eastman's, I now hear what you are talking about. For those that are looking and have not tried one, don't miss out. I know this one will be in the mix for my next GAS attack (after spousal approval

)

roylor4 · #2 03-10-2014, 09:03 AM

I have yet to play a really bad one. Most of their guitars range from very good to - "holy cow!".

More than just hype. The real deal.

Coffeeaddict · #3 03-10-2014, 09:07 AM

Played a few of their guitars and found them to be good quality - they also make very nice mandolins.

veryzer · #4 03-10-2014, 09:58 AM

I had the exact same experience with the exact same guitar. I can't believe it's still there...I think I played it a day or so after it came in at least a few months ago. I played a lot of nice guitars that day and it belonged right alongside them.

And, yes, it was monstrous loud.

Jukie · #5 03-10-2014, 10:14 AM

I've not played the Eastman dreds but their OMs are great. I'm sure their dreds are as well. Eastman is definitely at the top of my GAS list.

billder99 · #6 03-10-2014, 11:29 AM

I am the 2nd owner of my 3 year old E10D, I've had it for 2 years. For the first year, I had a hard time bonding with the large body, close string spacing (1-3/4), and tone. As you say, the guitar is freakin' LOUD and must be carefully tamed to be useful for vocal accompaniment.

The E10D has pushed me to become a better player with much more controlled dynamics... my interpretations of songs have really come alive with the added dimension of dynamics. The guitar demands correct technique.

The tone has definitely improved... I know some of it is me, but there is no question that the guitar rings more clear and true, and sustain is improved, since I got it. I have compared this guitar with a number of D-18s, D-18GEs, and one D-18A... the D-18A was better, no question... but the E10D equals the D-18 and GE.... and it will only continue to improve with the goodness of vintage tone.

Keeper!!! In 25 years, people will slap themselves in the forehead for not getting one and keeping it.

Ted @ LA Guitar Sales · #7 03-10-2014, 11:36 AM

Eastman guitars are fantastic regardless of the price, but at the current street price they are nothing short of amazing.

acousticjazz · #8 03-10-2014, 01:12 PM

Almos six years ago I bought my first Eastman and was blown away, especially since I was coming from having tried/owned used custom builds. You couldn't convince anyone at that time that these guitars were great instruments. I'm glad to see that it's changed.

Qplay · #9 03-10-2014, 01:43 PM

I bought one of these last weekend it really sounds good to me too.The week before my teacher was telling me to get louder with my Yamaha with the Eastman he was telling me I was a little too loud.I use PB Martin Lifetime Mediums on mine has anyone found other strings they like on these.It seems to have changed since I bought it but it's probably me.

dmcowles@comcas · #10 03-10-2014, 01:58 PM

I've had my E10D for close to three years, and have let go of every other guitar except my Martin D-21 Limited Edition. The Martin spends most of its time in the closet.

I have played and owned many fine guitars. I am pleased to say that the E10D ranks right up there with even the priciest of its predecessors.

FWIW, my E10D likes Elixir Nano PBs and so do I.

Mark E · #11 03-10-2014, 02:31 PM

I liked my E10D so much that I got another. One standard and one sunburst. They are great guitars, and very versatile, at least for me.

VJP5 · #12 03-10-2014, 02:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mark E <><

I liked my E10D so much that I got another. One standard and one sunburst. They are great guitars, and very versatile, at least for me.

I didn't know that 'sunburst' was an option. It's not listed on their website. That just ups it on the cosmetic side for me, too!!

syclonegs2003 · #13 11-04-2019, 09:13 PM

I own a 2011 E10D and several Martins including a D18, D28, D18V, Hd28V, HD28, and the E10D is the loudest, has the most resonance, most bass and bottom end, most mids, thickest highs, most sustain, best balance...Of course, this is the only guitar I own that has a red spruce top. The guitar is now over 8 years old and is extremely open sounding and super responsive and I find that I play it more than my Martins.For the price, the E10D is an insanely great value and great bluegrass drednaught.

jpricewood · #14 11-04-2019, 10:17 PM

I bought an E10D shortly after buying my J45. I bought it to hold me over until I found a D18 and D28 that I wanted to bring home. Now I have four Eastmans and no desire to buy anything else.

Mobile1 · #15 11-09-2019, 06:13 AM

Bought an Eastman E10 SS/v recently and can't say enough good things about it.

No regrets at all!