Singer/songwriter guitars

[highvibrational]

Hello,
As a singer/songwriter, I would like to know if any of you can recommend guitars that go well with singing voices in particular. From my experience, Martins with mahogany backs and sides go well with my voice, but I would like to know your thoughts.
I'm a strummer and finger-picker, alto voice, of the folk/pop tradition. I cover John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan and am following their footsteps.

Many thanks!

[MikeBmusic]

You'll get as many different answers as there are different singers/players!
Style of playing - strumming, fingerpicking, both?
Voice type - baritone, soprano, etc?
Music style - pop, folk, rock ('singer/songwriter' is too generic?

[highvibrational]

Thank you, I edited my question.

[jim1960]

Buy the guitar that inspires YOU, not the guitar that inspires someone else.

[RILEY31]

Try a Gibson J-45 or J-50 or a Martin D-18 or D-35

[RedJoker]

For me, strumming an all mahogany guitar sounds best because it's more mellow. But finger picking with just flesh, a spruce top or reso sounds best.

But none sound "bad" so don't over think it.

[Orfeas]

There is no magic recipe on that. If you want my advice take the time and try guitars while you are singing a tune. The instrument that you will end up with should compliment your voice. Sometimes, instruments are louder, played louder, or the wood combo and shape makes the voice to disappear or shine. So, choose wisely.

[KevWind]

Originally Posted by highvibrational

Hello,
I've heard that Martins with mahogany backs and sides sound best, but I would like to know your thoughts.

Many thanks!

The notion that any particular guitar brand of a specific makeup is universally "best" is a load of nonsense. It's like saying a Hugo Hatchback is the best commuter car .

jim1960 hit the nail on the head Buy the guitar that inspires YOU, not the guitar that inspires someone else.


Your in NY correct ? there are so many great Guitar stores all you need to do is spend some time in as many as you can get to,,,,,, play as many different brands and makeups as you can and it will start to become apparent which ones actually inspire you sing . end of story.

[Paddy1951]

Think about your vocal range. Where would you sing in the choir? That may help you decide.
I find that guitars with complex overtones often compete with a singer's voice. Remember, THAT is the most important instrument if you are a singer-songwriter.

I recently heard a friend performing with a new guitar(it shall remain un-named, but it is an expensive git from a top maker.) It sounded awful against his voice. Just too much going on. To some degree, I think, For a Singer, less is more.

[martingitdave]

There are so many great artists that use guitars that run the gamut. What you might consider doing is picking a few of your favorite (assuming female alto) artists and search for the guitars they are playing. I think you’ll find in terms of Martin guitars that many play OM18, OM28, D18, D28, HD28, and D35. Also there are a few who play the 00 sized guitars. If you’re looking at a Martin, I would head to your closets dealer with the largest selection and play as many as possible. Do your price homework in advance. Many independent stores stores will sell at 60% of List price on the website. If you can get close to that on a guitar you love, you’ve done very well for yourself.

[Reeperbahn]

J45 would be a classic choice (pickup-sound also is quite useable, I see/hear it a lot on big stages)

I prefer my 914e, as it leaves some "space" for my voice on the lower mids, and sparkles (playing "with flesh" only).

You will have to try different guitars. Really.

[Rev Roy]

Obviously, it all ultimately depends on what works for your style, voice and ears...but the classic answer to your question is a Gibson J-45. Fantastic, versatile guitars that won’t overpower your voice...

[Goat Mick]

I like mahogany backed guitars for my voice. My preference is a J-45. I would suggest trying a J-45, J-18 and an Advanced Jumbo. If you like Martins then look at a D-18. I also like mahogany backed 000 size guitars from Martin. You're just going to have to try a bunch to find out what works best for your voice.

[ataylor]

Gibson J-15/35/45
Martin D-15/18/28/35
Taylor 310/510/710

I’d sing/songwrite with any of those.

[Goat Mick]

Kinda struck me as funny that none of us have suggested a Gibson Songwriter. LOL