'94 D4 vs. '81 D25

[valleyguy]

How similar are a 1994 D4 to a 1981 D25 in sound? I have owned a the D4 and have the opportunity to buy the '81 D25.

The D4 was midrangy, kind of weak in the 2nd and 1st strings, which is primarily why I sold it (also used the cash to upgrade to a D50). Is the D25 pretty similar in sound?

I'm missing that mahogany sound.

 

[adorshki]

How similar are a 1994 D4 to a 1981 D25 in sound? I have owned a the D4 and have the opportunity to buy the '81 D25.
The D4 was midrangy, kind of weak in the 2nd and 1st strings, which is primarily why I sold it (also used the cash to upgrade to a D50). Is the D25 pretty similar in sound?
I'm missing that mahogany sound.

Should be very similar, basic formula's the same except I saw recently that D4's had a morado fretboard (and presumably bridge) vs rosewood on D25. However it's been shown that the neckblock and upper bout top bracing is different in those vintages, could have an effect on how soundboard resonates. Looks like later blocks were intended to help neck stability, were beefier if I recall correctly.
Never seen references to other bracing differences which might have some effect on sound, and finally, I'd expect the '81 to just sound richer overall simply due to more playing in of the wood, assuming it's been played proportionately more than the D4.
Hope that helps!

 

[Ross]

I have a 1982 D25, and a friend has a D4 from the 90s.

They both have the mahogany sound, but the D25 has better bass, and seems to have better balance across all frequencies. The D4 is midrangy. When I fingerpick I use no picks and a light touch, and the D25 really brings out the bass notes (that's why I bought it in the first place, and it's improved over time). The D4 doesn't have the same bass response when thumbed. Both strum well.

The D4 seems to have a lighter-weight body than the D25. Maybe this is because the bigger neckblock makes it feel more neck-heavy. This is a subjective assessment - I haven't weighed either on a scale. The D4 is satin finish, the D25 glossy nitrocellulose.

As with any older guitar, look for neck angle, loose braces, etc. But if the price is reasonable, I'd recommend the D25.

 

[killdeer43]

I'd recommend the D25.

What Ross said.
I'll be back in the GASsed market soon and a D25 is on my Top 5 list. Maybe closer to my Top 2 list! :wink:

Have fun out there!
Joe

 

[Ridgemont]

Go for the D25! I have not heard their bass response on any other guitar I have played. That '81 is almost 30 years old so I am sure it will have a great tone.

 

[dapmdave]

A properly set up D25 is a great guitar. Just do it.

Dave

 

[valleyguy]

Well, I guess I'll have to at least go play it, see how it sounds and how it looks.

 

[Scratch]

Had a '79 D-25 and 94 D-4 in the stable at the same time two years ago. The D-4 was much nicer looking (newer and very few dings if any), but that's the only advantage it had. IMO it's a no-brainer, the D-25 would be my clear choice.

 

[Ross]

Well, I guess I'll have to at least go play it, see how it sounds and how it looks.

We'll expect a full report!

 

[Treem]

Sounds like someone going to the LBC...

 

[kitniyatran]

I agree that the D25 should be bassier, fuller, perhaps more"boomy". If the 1 & 2 strings suffer, I'm thinking going up in gauge 1 higher might be good. I'm interested in trying it on mine, but it really works well as is.
PS; if it doesn't turn out well, you can probably make back your investment on a sale.

 

[valleyguy]

Just got it home, I'll post a separate review.

BTW, when I had my D4 I put on mediums on the 1st & 2nd string, lights for the rest, but that never really worked perfectly. The D25 sounds nice.