A 12-string for the Streets?

[charliea]

I suspect I've taken leave of my senses, but I've started the ball rolling to get myself a street performer license, which will allow me to stand on the sidewalks and croak Jimmy Buffet songs to swarms of tourists too inebriated (I can only hope) to notice my mistakes while they fill my case with gold and fold. I only play 12-string and my problem is, my current selection of instruments (see sig) is kinda costly to be put in the way of puking toddlers and gagging gutter crawlers. I need an inexpensive 12-string that sounds and plays good. I'm watching a couple of D212's, and might jump if the price is right, but even there we're talking noticeable bucks. Does anybody have a recommendation for 12-strings that only cost a couple or few hundred? Thanks.
Charlie

 

[Ross]

Hi Charlie:

A good friend of mine plays a Seagull 12. I don't know the model number, but it's laminate B & S, cedar top. Sounds great, stays in tune, reasonably priced.

Enjoy busking. When I retire later this year, I plan to spend the winter working up a busking repertoire for next summer, to supplement my pension.

 

[spiderman]

While looking for my 12 I tried many brands of them, alas no Guilds were available. Much to my shock even the low enders were eminently playable, these included Alvaraez, Crafter, Ovation, Seagull, Washburn, and Yamaha. What a change from the early '60s. For my money the Washburn Shenandoah and the Seagull mentioned by Ross lead the pack. the only thing about the Seagull is that it sounds a shade different than the others somewhat more mellow. Try before buying, there is a lot to choose from.

Harmony H-173 bought in 1960 (retired), Alvarez AC60S 2008, Eastman AC320ce 2009 "Hybrid", Guild D25M 1974, Martin Grand J35E 2009, Martin D12-20 1970, Martin OM-21 2009, Martin 00-15M Custom (full body gloss, wide neck) 2011, Martin 00-15M Custom (12 fret, wide neck, solid peghead) 2012, Voyage-air VAOM-06 2010
"I'm glad there are a lot of guitar players pursuing technique as diligently as they possibly can, because it leaves this whole other area open to people like me."
Richard Thompson

 

[charliea]

Thanks for the input! My eBay bid held, and I wound up with a D25-12 at a reasonable price. I've had one before, so know what to expect. And, there's a 14-day return option which I'll use if it isn't right.

 

[killdeer43]

Good score, Charlie! I was going to recommend looking for a D4-12, which is one of those Guilds that doesn't get much love, but I love mine. :wink:

Cheers,
Joe

 

[Ross]

A used Guild 12! The ideal busking guitar. Well done, Charlie.