70s F-30 Info

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Been questing for a Guild for a long time and I'm ready to take the plunge.

I like smaller guitars generally - the F-30 has really seemed like the right size/sound for me. Budget is a little constrained, trying to stay close to $1k. There's a '75 on Reverb at the moment - interested, but not entirely sure about the "mini-jumbo" shape versus the previous shape.

https://reverb.com/item/34475638-guild-1975-westerly-f-30-acoustic-guitar

I know there's a ton of knowledge here, but in the searching, it's hard to find a kind of beat-by-beat history of the F-30, especially since it's had so much variation. Is there a big sound difference on the mini-jumbo shape? Is it much of a difference in overall size, or just shape? When did Guild switch back to the classic shape? Obviously personal preference thing, but anyone think there's any real down side to the mini-jumbo F-30s?

Also noting I'm trying to buy an "all-purpose" guitar. Space/finances/primarily being a keys player means I'm only trying to own a single acoustic.

Thanks for any help! Doing my best to take in all the info and also find something in the budget.
 
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I've owned a 1975 F-30 since it was new - purchased in July, 1975, local store ordered it from Westerly for me. It has been a sweet companion for 45 years.

Solid as a rock, never even adjusted the truss rod on it.

I will be buried with it......
 
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Thanks, for pointing me to the other thread! Helpful info re: scale length.

And good to hear that level of endorsement.

I'll keep digging around for more info. Trigger finger is getting itchy...
 

bobouz

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The mini-jumbo shaped F-30 first appeared in late 1972, and it was discontinued in 1986. Versions built before & after have a body shape more like a Martin 000. During the mini-jumbo period, the body was mahogany, except for the two rosewood versions (which I outlined in the other thread) with rather short production runs. Mini-jumbo body depth is significantly deeper than on the 000 version. When buying online, it’s always wise to confirm the structural status of the neck angle, as many ‘70s Guilds have required a neck reset for best playability. Imho, a big plus re the one noted above on Reverb is that it has a reasonable return policy. Best of luck in your search!
 
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This is sage advice about the neck angle and I'll be sure to take it in the future.

For the now, I might've had a few drinks last night and gone straight from my last post back to Reverb to put in an offer, which might've gotten accepted this morning. 😬

So, I suppose I'll report back on it once it arrives!
 

walrus

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No longer available on Reverb, so congratulations!

walrus
 

mavuser

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75 is a great year but this F-30 may have a long scale neck, instead of short scale which they had in the 70s- prior to, and subsequent to, the long scales
 
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